cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonspecific suppressor elements in murine allogeneic radiation chimeras.

Abstract Spleen cells from long-term mouse allogeneic radiation chimeras were tested for their ability to modulate the graft-versus-host (GVH) or plaque-forming cell (PFC) response of normal lymphocytes transplanted in lethally X-irradiated recipients. In vivo GVH proliferation of normal lymphocytes (syngeneic to donor cells of the chimera) against antigens of host-type in which the chimeric state had been established was reduced by chimera cells. Inhibition varied, some chimeras suppressing GVH more than others and a few not suppressing at all. The suppressive effect was abrogated if the chimera cells were treated with anti-θ; treatment with anti-IgM did not eliminate this activity. When mixtures of normal donor lymphocytes and chimera cells were given to irradiated recipients genetically different from host or donor, reduction of donor cell GVH also occurred. Further, chimera cells reduced the GVH activity of normal host cells in irradiated recipients differing from the host at one H-2 locus and from the donor at minor histocompatibility loci. The modulating effect of spleen cells from chimeras on the PFC response by normal lymphocytes also varied. Six chimeras induced a 25 to 90% suppression, two enhanced the response, and one showed no effect. Where suppression occurred, treatment of chimera cells with anti-θ most often, but not always, restored PFC production. Our results show that the suppressive action of splenic lymphoid cells by chimeras is highly nonspecific and variable in expression. We suggest that tolerance in chimeras may be mediated by nonspecific suppressor elements leading to unresponsiveness to a variety of antigens including SRBC.
Heightened Expression of Cyclooxygenase-2 and Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-δ in Human Endometrial Adenocarcinoma

Epidemiological studies indicate that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) significantly reduce the risk and mortality from colorectal cancer, in part by inhibiting prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. Cyclooxygenase (COX), the rate-limiting enzyme in PG biosynthesis, exists in two isoforms, COX-1 and COX-2. Genetic and pharmacological evidence suggest that COX-2 is involved in the development of colorectal cancer. We have previously shown that COX-2-derived prostacyclin participates in blastocyst implantation through activation of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor delta (PPARdelta), a member of the nuclear hormone receptor family. Furthermore, our recent studies suggest that a similar pathway is operative during colorectal carcinogenesis. These observations prompted us to examine whether the COX-2-PPARdelta signaling pathway is also involved during development of uterine adenocarcinoma. Here we describe for the first time the heightened expression of COX-2 and PPARdelta, but not COX-1, in uterine endometrial adenocarcinoma.
Determination of the source height and anisotropy of solar hard X-rays by measurements with good time resolution

When emitted at the same time, solar hard X-rays reflected by the photosphere arrive at an observer at later times than primary hard X-rays coming directly from the source. This time lag of albedo photons, therefore, should be taken into account in interpreting fine-scale hard X-ray time profiles. If hard X-ray bursts consist of succession of short-lived ‘elementary bursts’, under favorable conditions reflected hard X-rays can be resolved from primary hard X-rays with good time resolution. If so, from the time lag and the ratio of the albedo flux to the primary flux, one can determine the source height and anisotropy of solar hard X-rays.
The effect of changes in health sector resources on infant mortality in the short-run and the long-run: A longitudinal econometric analysis

While countries with higher levels of human resources for health typically have better population health, the evidence that increases in the level of human resources for health leads to improvements in population health is limited. We use a dynamic regression model to obtain estimates of both the short-run and long-term effects of changes in physicians per capita, our measure of health system resources, on infant mortality. Using a dataset of 99 countries at 5-year intervals from 1960-2000, we estimate that increasing the number of physicians by one per 1000 population (roughly a doubling of current levels of provision) decreases the infant mortality rate by 15% within 5 years and by 45% in the long-run with half the long-run gain being achieved in 15 years. We conclude that the long-run effects of heath system resources are substantially larger than previously estimated. Our results suggest, however, that countries that have delayed action on the Millennium Development Goal of reducing infant and child mortality rate by two-thirds by 2015 (relative to 1990) may have difficulty meeting this goal even if they rapidly increase resources now.
Depressive symptomatology among Mexican-American adults: An examination with the CES-D scale

Abstract The presence and persistence of specific depressive symptomatology among a large sample of Mexican-American adults ( n =3,084) were examined with the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) Scale. Compared to studies of Anglos, a substantially larger percentage reported persistent hopelessness about the future (29%), self-depreciation (21%), and lack of enjoyment out of life (14%). The prevalence of these symptoms was higher among those who had not adapted to mainstream American society and among older participants. Women were generally more distressed than men. Factors analyses of the items demonstrated a slightly different factor structure than previously obtained with Anglos. For both sexes and for those under age 30 and ages 30–59, the items "loneliness," "sadness," and "crying" loaded on a common factor. The tendency for these items to group together was stronger for those exhibiting a low or medium degree of cultural adaption than for those exhibiting a high degree of adaptation. Discussion focuses on the cultural variation of response to items on the CES-D.
Equity in Lung Cancer Care and Outcomes

Lung cancer is still a devastating disease. It is the second most common cancer in the US and a leading cause of cancer deaths among men and women. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) accounts for about 85–90 % of all lung cancers and more than 50 % of advanced stage lung cancers. The 5-year survival rate of advanced stage NSCLC remains about 15 %.1
Multiple comorbid conditions challenge heart failure self-care by decreasing self-efficacy.

Background: Most heart failure patients have multiple comorbidities. Objective: This study aims to test the moderating effect of comorbidity on the relationship between self-efficacy and self-care in adults with heart failure. Methods: Secondary analysis of four mixed methods studies ( n = 114 ) was done. Self-care and self-efficacy were measured using the Self-Care of Heart Failure Index. Comorbidity was measured with the Charlson Comorbidity Index. Parametric statistics were used to examine the relationships among self-efficacy, self-care, and the moderating influence of comorbidity. Qualitative data yielded themes about self-efficacy in self-care and explained the influence of comorbidity on self-care. Results: Most ( 79% ) reported two or more comorbidities. There was a significant relationship between self-care and the number of comorbidities ( r = -.25; p = .03 ). There were significant differences in self-care by comorbidity level ( self-care maintenance, F[1, 112], 5.96, p = .019, and self-care management, F[1, 72], 4.66, p = .034 ). Using moderator analysis of the effect of comorbidity on self-efficacy and self-care, a significant effect was found only in self-care maintenance among those who had moderate levels of comorbidity ( b = .620, p = .022, Fchange df[6,48], 5.61, p = .022 ). In the qualitative data, self-efficacy emerged as an important variable influencing self-care by shaping how individuals prioritized and integrated multiple and often competing self-care instructions. Discussion: Comorbidity influences the relationship between self-efficacy and self-care maintenance, but only when levels of comorbidity are moderately high. Methods of improving self-efficacy may improve self-care in those with multiple comorbidities.
Further Observations on Columnaris in Salmon and Trout

Summary Columnaris caused very little mortality in fingerling salmon and trout reared in water having maximum temperatures below 65° F. Columnaris caused high mortalities in young silver salmon, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout reared for extended periods in water having maximum temperatures above 65° F. Spring Chinook salmon in this warm water were not affected. Sulfamerazine, when fed continuously for 10 to 13 weeks during the warm-water period at the rate of 6 grams of drug per 100 pounds of fish, proved to be an effective control for columnaris in fingerling silver salmon, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout.
Treatment of aspiration in intensive care unit patients.

Background: Aspiration is a common event, but the clinical consequences are variable. The primary determinants are the nature of the aspirated material and the host response to it. The purpose of this paper is to present treatment algorithms that should be employed in critically ill patients who experience aspiration. Methods: Expert review of the available literature was done to provide background information to support the logic of 3 treatment algorithms: (1) treatment of acute aspiration pneumonitis; (2) pulmonary care for acute aspiration; and (3) treatment of aspiration pneumonia. Results: The discussion of aspirations is separated into 2 clinical scenarios: (1) aspiration pneumonitis (sterile inflammation) versus (2) aspiration pneumonia (an infectious process). Aspiration pneumonitis should be treated by aggressive pulmonary care to enhance lung volume and clear secretions. Intubation should be used selectively. Early corticosteroids and prophylactic antibiotics are not indicated. Treatment of aspiration pneumonia requires diligent surveillance for the clinical signs of pneumonia. Treatment decisions are based on 3 factors: (1) clinical diagnostic certainly (definite versus probable), (2) time of onset [early (<5 days) versus late (≥5 days)], and (3) host factors (high risk versus low risk). There is no ideal antibiotic regimen. Unit-specific resistance patterns and known frequency pathogens should direct broad spectrum empiric therapy. Invasive diagnostic techniques (such as bronchoalveolar lavage) should be used when the diagnosis is not certain. Antibiotic coverage should be narrowed once sputum culture results become available. Conclusions: Aspiration is common in critically ill patients and should be aggressively treated by these treatment algorithms.
HPLC Determination of Erythorbate in Cured Meats

Erythorbate was measured in nitrite-cured meats using ion-paired HPLC. With tetrabutylammonium formate as the ion pair, good separations were obtained with a linear response' up to 300 ppm of erythorbate. Recoveries were complete and agreed with values obtained by titration with 2,6-dichloroindophenol. The method is specific and free from interferences from other reducing substances in cured meats. Erythorbate and its isomer, ascorbate, are not distinguished under these conditions.
Static quadrupole interaction of 44Sc in barium titanate

Abstract The electric quadrupole interaction in polycrystalline barium titanate is investigated by observing the perturbed directional correlatin of the 44 Sc gamma-gamma cascade. The time-differential attenuation factor as well as the integral attenuation factor show that the spin of the 44 Sc first excited level is given by I = 1. The interaction frequency is found to be ω 0 = 30.6 ± 1.5 MHz which corresponds to an interaction strength of 26.8 ± 1.3 nV. The time-differential attenuation factor shows the effects of a probability distribution for the field gradient with a relative width of δ = 25%. No evidence of rhombic fields or after-effects is found.
3α,5α-THP in the raphe magnus attenuates PTZ-induced myoclonic seizures

Whether progesterone (P4) and its metabolite, 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (3α,5α-THP) have anti-seizure effects through actions in the raphe magnus (NRM) was investigated. Ovariectomized, Long–Evans rats with unilateral implants into the NRM of P4 or its metabolite, 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (3α,5α-THP) had a significantly lower incidence of myoclonic seizures and less EEG activity following pentylenetetrazol (PTZ; 70 mg/kg, IP) administration than did rats with control implants. Progestin implants that missed the NRM were not effective at reducing ictal activity. Following P4 implants to the NRM levels of P4, and following P4 and 3α,5α-THP implants to the NRM, 3α,5α-THP levels in the ventral hindbrain were increased above those seen in rats with control implants. These data suggest that progestins’ anti-seizure effects in the NRM may be involve actions of 3α,5α-THP.
Speech segment selection for concatenative synthesis based on prosody-aligned distance measure

This paper presents a new method for automatically selecting speech segments that are expected to minimize perceptual distortion in synthesis. The method is based on comparison of candidates fully prosody-aligned to each other. Automatic segmentation, pitch marking and PSOLA method work together for prosody alignment. Two distance measures, MFCC and PSQM, are used for comparison because of human perceptual consideration. Experiment shows that the average distortion by using the selected best unit in outside testing is similar to that in training corpus with only few exceptions. The symmetry characteristics and correlation of these two distance measures are also studied and reveal that both are properly symmetric and consistent with each other for most cases.
Fano resonances as a probe of phase coherence in quantum dots.

In the presence of direct trajectories connecting source and drain contacts, the conductance of a quantum dot may exhibit resonances of the Fano type. Since Fano resonances result from the interference of two transmission pathways, their line shape (as described by the Fano parameter q) is sensitive to dephasing in the quantum dot. We show that under certain circumstances the dephasing time can be extracted from a measurement of q for a single resonance. We also show that q fluctuates from level to level, and we calculate its probability distribution for a chaotic quantum dot. Our results are relevant to recent experiments by Gores et al. [Phys. Rev. B 62, 2188 (2000)].
Flux flow induced microwave absorption in high temperature superconductor Bi2−XPbXSr2CaN−1CuNO4+2N

Direct measurements of microwave absorption without use of rf H field modulation in granular composites of the 115 K superconductor Bi2−XPbXSr2CaN−1CuNO4+2N as a function of magnetic field above 0.1 T reveal a continuing increase of absorption of microwave energy increasing magnetic field. The temperature and magnetic field dependence of the absorption are very different from the low magnetic field (<0.01 T) absorption arising from weak links in the material. The magnetic field and temperature dependence are consistent with the behavior of thermally activated flux flow resistance suggesting the absorption is due to flux creep.
Spontaneous sustained ventricular tachyarrhythmias during treatment with type IA antiarrhythmic agents

Abstract Twenty-six patients who developed their first clinical episode of sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) while taking type IA antiarrhythmic agents for more benign rhythm disturbances were rechallenged with the identical drug during electrophysiologic testing. Patients with these new drug-associated spontaneous ventricular arrhythmias often manifested a preexisting substrate for such arrhythmias: sustained VT or VF was induced in 65% of patients at baseline, and in 58% of patients when tested with their previously taken antiarrhythmic drug. Among those without inducible sustained ventricular arrhythmias in the drug-free state, 78% remained free of inducible sustained arrhythmias when tested with the same drug they had been taking at the time of the clinical arrhythmia. Even patients without a definable electrophysiologic substrate for sustained VT or VF remained at risk for arrhythmia recurrence if treated with alternative antiarrhythmic medications: 40% of such patients who continued to receive an antiarrhythmic agent different from that being administered when their clinical VT or VF occurred had recurrent spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmias during follow-up. Thus, patients with drug-associated clinical sustained ventricular tachycardias form a heterogenous group that should be evaluated individually and not empirically managed for a “proarrhythmic effect” simply by antiarrhythmic drug withdrawal or drug substitution.
Counting on computers in DSP education

Global competition is forcing universities to rethink their approach to undergraduate education. Advanced hardware and software tools make it possible for students to grasp fundamental engineering concepts quicker, ultimately enhancing the undergraduate educational experience. The article highlights the roles played by software in DSP education, including symbolic and numeric processing as well as high-level programming of DSPs. The authors include a survey of some of the more popular software environments and identify important logistical issues. >
Modeling places for interactive media and entertainment applications

Taking advantage of the multitude of cameras now available and capable of recording all aspects of our lives, this work explores the notion of virtualizing a physical place using cameras and sharing the resulting model with others. This social sharing would create new forms of relationship and common space discovery that would enhance video chats and virtual visiting of physical places. Furthermore, the research will consider the possible interactive applications, from games to augmented reality, which can take advantage of the created spatial and temporal models.
A Critical Evaluation of Clinical Research Study Designs

Interventional and observational studies have important roles in dermatology. The results from any study must be put in the context of the appropriate research design selection. RCTs are most useful in determining causality and effectiveness of treatment. Observational studies provide information about epidemiology and possible links between exposure and disease. Understanding the fundamentals underlying the various study designs is critical to both investigators and clinicians alike.
Atmospheric equilibrium model of sulfate and nitrate aerosols—II. Particle size analysis

Abstract Part I of this work presented a thermodynamic equilibrium model for the quantity, composition, and physical state of atmospheric sulfate/nitrate/ammonium aerosols. In this work we extend that model to include particle size. That is, given total nitrate and ammonium levels, relative humidity and temperature, and the distribution of sulfate by particle size, we calculate the equilibrium quantity, composition, and physical state of the aerosol as a function of particle size. The model provides an explanation for the differences in observed ambient sulfate and nitrate size distributions.
The plutonium-gallium system

Abstract The plutonium-gallium equilibrium diagram has been constructed from the results of thermal, dilatometric, micrographic and X-ray diffraction studies. The maximum solubilities of gallium in δ- and e-plutonium are about 12.5 and 20 at %, respectively. The δ phase is stabilized to room temperature by the solution of 2 or more at % gallium. Six intermediate phases, namely, Pu3Ga (ζ'), Pu5Ga3, PuGa, Pu2Ga3 (?), PuGa2 and PuGa3 (μ'), are stable at room temperature, and 3 phases, namely, Pu3Ga (ζ), PuGa3 (μ) and η are stable at elevated temperatures. The η solid solution exists from about 18 to 42 at % gallium, depending on temperature.
Portable fiber-coupled diode-laser-based sensor for multiple trace gas detection

Tunable narrowband mid-infrared radiation from 3.25 to 4.4 micrometers is generated by a compact fiber-coupled, difference-frequency-based spectroscopic source. A 20-mW external cavity diode laser (with a tuning range from 814 to 870 nm) and a 50-mW distributed-Bragg-reflector diode-laser-seeded ytterbium-doped fiber amplifier operating at 1083 nm are difference-frequency mixed in a multi-grating, temperature-controlled periodically poled LiNbO3 crystal. A conversion efficiency of 0.44 mW/(W2cm) (corresponding to a power of approximately equal to 3 microW at 3.3 micrometers) represents the highest conversion efficiency reported for a portable device. Performance characteristics of such a sensor and its application to spectroscopic detection of CO2, N2O, H2CO, HCl, NO2, and CH4 will be reported in this work.
Impedance measurement of absolute blood flow using an angioplasty catheter: A validation study

An angioplasty catheter was developed to allow measurement of absolute coronary blood flow during interventional procedures. This method uses electrical impedance changes induced by a 0.5 ml bolus of 5% dextrose solution and indicator-dilution principles. The indicator is injected through a port located just proximal to the dilating balloon and the resulting changes in blood impedance are measured by electrodes at the catheter tip. Excellent linear correlations were found between known flow in 2 to 4 mm to diameter plastic tubes and catheter measurements (r = 0.99) and between timed collection canine femoral artery flow and catheter measurements (r = 0.97). Final validation was performed in canine coronary arteries using electromagnetic flowmeter data as the standard (r = 0.94). Thus accurate clinical determination of absolute coronary blood flow can be accomplished using this relatively inexpensive and simple catheter technique.
Alterations in Scapular Kinematics in Subjects With Idiopathic Loss of Shoulder Range of Motion

Study Design Prospective cohort study. Objective To determine the effect of idiopathic loss of shoulder range of motion on scapular kinematics. Background Subjects with idiopathic loss of shoulder range of motion have difficulty performing activities of daily living. Previous investigations have focused on the glenohumeral component of shoulder complex motion. Materials and Methods Seventeen unilaterally impaired and 17 nonimpaired subjects. The 3-dimensional motion of the humerus, scapula, and trunk were measured with the Fastrak electromagnetic motion-tracking system during humerus-to-trunk scapular plane elevation. An analysis of variance compared the impaired subjects noninvolved to the nonimpaired subjects' scapulae at 4 scapular plane elevation positions. A repeated-measures analysis of variance compared the impaired subjects' involved and noninvolved scapulae at 3 scapular plane elevation positions, and matched-pairs t test compared peak elevation values. Results The between-group ANOVAs demonstrat...
Surface Chemistry and Mechanism of Atomic Layer Growth of GaAs

The success In attaining atomic layer epitaxy (ALE) of GaAs depends critically on the choice of the Ga precursor. Three systems were examined: trimethylgallium (TMGa) and diethylgallium chloride (DEGaCI) both of which give ALE, and triethylgallium (TEGa) which does not. We compared the surface reactions of these compounds on GaAs(100) and concluded that there was no evidence for reaction selectivity between Ga and As sites to cause ALE. Site blocking by the ligands on the Ga precursors alone also could not provide a self-limiting Ga deposition for ALE. We found evidence of a new mechanism by which self-limiting deposition of Ga resulted when the incoming Ga flux by the adsorption of Ga precursors was counter-balanced by an outgoing flux of Ga containing reaction product. For TMGa and DEGaCI with which ALE is successful, the products are CH3Ga and GaCl, respectively. For TEGa, the corresponding compound C2H5Ga was not formed.
An intelligent light control system for power saving

Saving energy has become one of the most challenging issues these days. The most waste of energy comes from the inefficient use of the electrical energy consumed by artificial light devices (lamps or light bulbs). This paper presents a system with detailed design for saving electrical energy by controlling the intensity of artificial light to a satisfactory level and getting use of the day light when possible with the best effort for energy saving. An improvement to daylight harvesting and controlled dimming systems is introduced while counting for over illumination cases. The idea behind is to control the venetian blinds or curtains in such a way to make use of the daylight if it is available. Otherwise, it uses the artificial internal building light. Controlling the amount of daylight passing inside is via controlling the opening angle of the venetian blinds while controlling the intensity of artificial light is by controlling the amount of power delivered to the lamp via Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) for DC lamps or clipping the AC wave for AC light bulbs. The system uses Controller Area Network (CAN) as the media of communication with the sensors and the actuators. The system is modular and can be expanded to span large buildings. The advantage of the design is that it gives the user a single point of operation which is the amount of desired light. The controller is responsible to determine a way to satisfy the amount of light desired with the least energy consumption. One of the major issues considered is the ease of installation and the low cost of the system components. The system shows a significant amount of energy saved and feasibility in practical implementation.
Surface leakage current reduction in long wavelength infrared type-II InAs/GaSb superlattice photodiodes

Dielectric passivation of long wavelength infrared type-II InAs/GaSb superlattice photodetectors with different active region doping profiles has been studied. SiO2 passivation was shown to be efficient as long as it was not put in direct contact with the highly doped superlattice. A hybrid graded doping profile combined with the shallow etch technique reduced the surface leakage current in SiO2 passivated devices by up to two orders of magnitude compared to the usual design. As a result, at 77 K the SiO2 passivated devices with 10.5 μm cutoff wavelength exhibit an R0A of 120 Ω cm2, RmaxA of 6000 Ω cm2, and a dark current level of 3.5×10−5 A cm−2 at −50 mV bias.
Design and synthesis of a β-lactamase activated 5-fluorouracil prodrug

An efficient synthesis of a 5-fluorouracil-cephalosporin prodrug is described for use against colorectal and other cancers in antibody and gene-directed therapies. The compound shows stability in aqueous media until specifically activated by beta-lactamase (betaL). The kinetic parameters of the 5-fluorouracil-cephalosporin conjugate were determined in the presence of Enterobacter cloacae P99 betaL (ECl betaL) revealing a K(m)=95.4 microM and V(max)=3.21 microMol min(-1) mg(-1). The data compare favorably to related systems that have been reported and enable testing of this prodrug against cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo.
Hemangioma of scrotum, perineum, and buttocks

A case of cavernous hemangioma of the scrotum with involvement of the perineum and buttock is presented and discussed.
Influenza Immunization in Lupus Erythematosus: Safe, Effective?

Excerpt The threat of a swine influenza epidemic in 1976 reawakened interest in influenza immunization in patients with immunologic disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus and other connecti...
Multifunctional interventional devices for MRI: A combined electrophysiology/MRI catheter

The design and application of a two-wire electrophysiology (EP) catheter that simultaneously records the intracardiac electrogram and receives the MR signal for active catheter tracking is described. The catheter acts as a long loop receiver, allowing for visualization of the entire catheter length while simultaneously behaving as a traditional two-wire EP catheter, allowing for intracardiac electrogram recording and ablation. The application of the device is demonstrated by simultaneously tracking the catheter and recording the intracardiac electrogram in canine models using 7 and 10 frame/sec real-time imaging sequences. Using solely MR imaging, the entire catheter was visualized and guided from the jugular vein into the cardiac chambers, where the intracardiac electrogram was recorded. By combining several functions in a single, simple structure, the excellent tissue contrast and functional imaging capabilities of MR can be used to improve the efficacy of EP interventions. This catheter will facilitate MR-guided interventions and demonstrates the design of multifunctional interventional devices for use in MRI.
Chronic hematuria and abdominal pain.

AbstractAn 18-year-old Asian woman with a history of substance abuse presented to the Emergency Department with right-sided abdominal pain and hematuria of several months duration. Physical examination revealed right upper quadrant and suprapubic tenderness. Liver function tests were normal. Urinalysis showed: large blood, 30–50 red blood cells/high-powered field, and no bacteria. She underwent a CT of the abdomen and pelvis following oral and intravenous contrast.
Preservation and storage of microorganisms in the gas phase of liquid nitrogen

Abstract Methods are described which permit the rapid preparation and retrieval of suspensions of microorganisms stored in the gas space of a liquid nitrogen refrigerator. Inocula are currently used for assay plates, turbidimetric assays, bioautograph plates, and various fermentation processes. The most suitable suspending agents, 10% glycerol with 5% of either lactose, maltose, or raffinose, were devised by determining viabilities from alternate freezing and thawing of cell suspensions. Four milliliters each of concentrated cell suspensions were pipetted into cotton-plugged or plastic-capped glass tubes (13 × 100 mm). After rapid noncontrolled freezing in the nitrogen gas phase, the tubes were stored horizontally either in test-tube racks or in bulk containers. Frozen suspensions of vegetative cells of some algae, many genera of bacteria, as well as spores, vegetative cells, and fragmented mycelia of streptomycetes and fungi have been conveniently prepared from either agar or broth cultures. Sufficient inocula have been prepared to be used for periods of a few weeks to several years.
Situation and task in young children's talk∗

Two studies were conducted in which the speech of 3‐to 4‐year‐old, black Head Start children was compared in two situations; a trip to a local supermarket and discussion about the trip upon their return to the classroom. Comparisons were carried out using a method of speech‐act analysis developed by Dore (1977) to supplement more standard psycholinguistic measures of language development. Results of the first study showed that speech in the two situations was markedly different, but that differences appeared at different levels of data aggregation depending upon the age of the children. Differences were located in the frequency with which different speech acts were used in the two settings, not intra‐speech act characteristics of talk. A shift in quality of talk between the supermarket and classroom situations was not obtained in the second study. Discussion of the two studies centers on the way in which participants’ constructions of the task constrain their talk and on the inferences regarding language ...
The effectiveness of extrication collars tested during the execution of spine-board transfer techniques

Abstract Background context In the prehospital stages of emergency care, cervical collars are (supposedly) used to aid rescuers in maintaining in-line stabilization of the spinal column as patients with potential or actual injuries are shifted onto a spine board to achieve full spinal immobilization. Unfortunately, not a single study has examined the effectiveness of cervical collars to control motion during the execution of spine-board transfer techniques. Purpose To evaluate the controlling effect of three cervical collars during the execution of spine-board transfer techniques. Study design This was a repeated measures investigation in which a cadaveric model was used to test the effectiveness of the Ambu (Ambu, Inc., Linthicum, MD), Aspen (Aspen Medical Products, Inc., Long Beach, CA) and Miami J (Jerome Medical, Moorestown, NJ) collars during the execution of the log-roll (LR) maneuver and the lift-and-slide (LS) technique. Methods Six medical professionals executed the LR and the LS on five cadavers. An electromagnetic tracking device was used to capture angular movements generated at the C5–C6 vertebral segment during the execution of both transfer techniques. The types of motion that were analyzed in this study were flexion-extension, lateral flexion and axial rotation motion. To test the three cervical collars, an experimental lesion (ie, a complete segmental instability) was created at the aforementioned spinal level of the cadavers and sensors from the electromagnetic tracking device were affixed to the specified vertebrae to record the motion generated at the site of the lesion. Results Statistical tests did not reveal a significant interaction between the independent variables of this study (ie, transfer technique and collar type), lending no support to the notion that there may be a combination of collar and transfer technique that could theoretically offer added protection to the patient. Although there was a decrease in the amount of motion generated in every one of the planes of motion as a result of wearing each of the three collars, none of the changes that emerged proved to be significantly different. A significant difference was noted between the LR and LS techniques when the amount of lateral flexion and axial rotation motion generated with each of the procedures were compared. In both cases, execution of the LR maneuver resulted in significantly more motion. Conclusions The data presented here suggest that the collars tested in this study are functionally similar. It is recommended that this study be repeated with a larger sample size.
Age and Gender Adjusted Comparison of Clinical Features between Severe Cases Infected with H7N9 and H1N1pdm Influenza A in Jiangsu Province, China

Background Influenza H7N9 and H1N1pdm can cause severe human infections. It is important to investigate the distinguishing clinical features between these two diseases. Several studies have compared the differences in general, however, age and gender adjusted comparisons may be more useful and informative to the health professionals. Methods A total of 184 severe H1N1pdm patients and 37 severe H7N9 patients from Jiangsu Province were included in this analysis to perform age and gender adjusted comparison of clinical features. Results After adjusting age and gender, no significant differences in chronic medical conditions or treatment were found between severely ill patients with H7N9 and H1N1pdm. Severely ill patients with H7N9 had significantly longer interval from onset of illness to neuraminidase inhibitor treatment and to death. They were more likely to have complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), liver and renal dysfunctions, and had a significantly higher risk of death. Conclusion Our results suggests that age and gender should be adjusted as important confounding factors when comparing the clinical features between severe H7N9 and H1N1pdm patients to avoid any misunderstanding regarding the differences between these two diseases particularly in terms of clinical severity and prognosis.
Measures of brand attitude: Are cognitive structure approaches really needed?

Abstract Recent research on attitude toward the advertisement provides a theoretical base that questions the usefulness of multiattribute attitude measures. Arguments for global measures of brand attitude in affect-referral choice situations are presented. The two types of measures are tested as predictors of purchase intentions for ten supermarket brands. Global brand attitudes demonstrated greater predictive value for nine of the ten test brands.
The role of neuromodulators in selective attention

Several classes of neurotransmitters exert modulatory effects on a broad and diverse population of neurons throughout the brain. Some of these neuromodulators, especially acetylcholine and dopamine, have long been implicated in the neural control of selective attention. We review recent evidence and evolving ideas about the importance of these neuromodulatory systems in attention, particularly visual selective attention. We conclude that, although our understanding of their role in the neural circuitry of selective attention remains rudimentary, recent research has begun to suggest unique contributions of neuromodulators to different forms of attention, such as bottom-up and top-down attention.
The Internet's Impact on Policy Evaluation: Information Compression and Credibility.

As with all media, the Internet structures and frames information, rewarding some information search and decision behaviors while punishing others and, thereby, strongly influences evaluation research results and possibilities. Now that the Internet is for many evaluators the information medium of choice, the impacts of the medium on evaluation deserve careful attention. The objective of this article is to lay groundwork for a theory of the impact of the Internet on evaluation and policy analysis. Questions addressed include the following: (a) What is the impact of the Internet on the evaluator’s professional role, work norms, and work habits? (b) Does the use of the Internet affect who is an evaluator or the meaning of professional evaluation? and (c) How does evaluation via Internet affect the technical quality and credibility of evaluation? A key thesis is that the Internet compresses information in the sense that it is not always easy to distinguish among information resources and, especially, the aut...
Facilitating Objective-Setting In Behavior Therapy Through Social Mediation

Three therapists were monitored as to their writing of short-term behavioral objectives on weekly progress notes following family therapy sessions. After a baseline period all therapists were given a verbal prompt to set weekly objectives with their clients and to document this procedure on weekly progress notes. The second intervention, using a multiple baseline across therapists, entailed implementing a prescription sheet whereby each therapist documented in writing objectives to be accomplished prior to the next session. Results suggest that the initial verbal prompt produced an improvement in the objective-setting behavior for two of the three therapists; however, use of the prescription sheet brought all three therapists to near 100% performance in objective-setting.
Multistep method for wide-angle beam propagation.

A new beam-propagation method is presented whereby the Pade approximant wide-angle propagation operator is factored into a series of simpler Pade (1, 1) operators, thus leading naturally to a multistep method whose component steps are each solvable by using readily available paraxiallike solution techniques. The resulting method allows accurate approximations to true Helmholtz propagation while incurring only a modest numerical penalty. In addition, the tridiagonal form of the component steps allows the straightforward use of the previously reported transparent boundary condition.
Resilience and Chronic Pain

This paper presents a two-factor model to classify biological elements, affective and cognitive characteristics, and social determinants of successful adaptation to chronic pain. The two factors, vulnerability and resilience, identify variables that are further differentiated into stable and modifiable indicators that influence adaptation to chronic pain. Examples of stable and modifiable constructs are presented and used to examine different pathways to resilient responding. The paper concludes with implications of this Stable-Modifiable Model of Vulnerability and Resilience Processes for clinical intervention and suggestions for areas of future research.
Virtual Snack Shop: An Internet Project with Emphasis on Food Sources of Vitamins and Minerals

changed the way that the public obtains health-related information such as nutrition.' In order to satisfy the public's information needs, the next generation of nutrition professionals will need the confidence and ability to use technology to enhance their skills in critical thinking and problem solving. Hence, faculty in nutrition and dietetics programs are facing the challenge of how to integrate Internet technology with instruction in a way that will help students prepare for their future. Thevirtual Snack Shop (VSS) project provides a problem-solving activity for students to identify a nutrientdense snack that meets predetermined criteria.These snack items and their vitamin and mineral content are then added to theVSS database of nutrientdense snacks. This database is available for reference by anyone using the Web through a user-friendly interface at http://napa.ntdt.udel.edu/ntdt401 /food/menu.asp. It becomes a resource for both the nutrition professional and the layperson.
S-Adenosyl methionine (SAMe) versus celecoxib for the treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms: A double-blind cross-over trial. [ISRCTN36233495]

S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is a dietary supplement used in the management of osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms. Studies evaluating SAMe in the management of OA have been limited to Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) for comparison. The present study compares the effectiveness of SAMe to a cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor (celecoxib) for pain control, functional improvement and to decrease side effects in people with osteoarthritis of the knee. A randomized double-blind cross-over study, comparing SAMe (1200 mg) with celecoxib (Celebrex 200 mg) for 16 weeks to reduce pain associated with OA of the knee. Sixty-one adults diagnosed with OA of the knee were enrolled and 56 completed the study. Subjects were tested for pain, functional health, mood status, isometric joint function tests, and side effects. On the first month of Phase 1, celecoxib showed significantly more reduction in pain than SAMe (p = 0.024). By the second month of Phase 1, there was no significant difference between both groups (p < 0.01). The duration of treatment and the interaction of duration with type of treatment were statistically significant (ps ≤ 0.029). On most functional health measures both groups showed a notable improvement from baseline, however no significant difference between SAMe and celecoxib was observed. Isometric joint function tests appeared to be steadily improving over the entire study period regardless of treatment. SAMe has a slower onset of action but is as effective as celecoxib in the management of symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Longer studies are needed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of SAMe and the optimal dose to be used.
Quality in the Interorganizational Setting

For many patients, important health services are de livered by a process of care that spans several service organizations. Issues influencing the quality of care de livered across organizations are infrequently discussed in the health care quality literature. In this paper, inter organizational quality problems that detract from the care received by children with spina bifida, lead poison ing, and children who have been sexually abused are identified. Using concepts from the organizational be havior literature, both structural and group process ap proaches to addressing these problems are discussed to enhance the care received by children. A broader conceptualization of care delivery is required if patients whose care spans institutions are to benefit from qual ity improvement efforts.
Dentists’ views on contemporary issues in dentistry: A study of the diffusion of three innovations

Three contemporary issues in dentistry are evaluated by practitioners in Connecticut. Practicing dentists in Connecticut were surveyed by questionnaires to determine the level of acceptability of expanded-duty auxiliaries, national health insurance, and dental group practice. Findings suggest that the dental population of Connecticut was generally supportive of expanded-duty auxiliaries. However, practitioners are somewhat selective in the reallocation of certain dental procedures. Group practice is supported as a mechanism for improving the efficiency of dental care delivery. National health insurance is supported as a means for making health care more accessible to the population but it is not seen as a panacea for the problems that face the health care delivery system. In addition, the respondents favored the development of better approaches to public health education programs. The three innovations that were studied had a high level of awareness and support among the population. They could gain further acceptance over time, providing they help to improve the organization and delivery of dental services to the American population.
Molecular beam techniques applied to mass spectrometric thermospheric density measurements

The kinetic theory of a drifting Maxwellian gas has been applied to the gas sampling problem in atmospheric density measurements aboard satellites and high velocity probes; and a molecular beam mass spectrometer has been developed for gas density measurements in the upper atmosphere which substantially eliminates gas‐surface scattering and gas‐surface reactions in the sample, and preserves the integrity of the gas sample during the analysis process. An ion source lens system has been developed and experimentally evaluated over the pressure range 10−7−10−4 Torr. The extracted ion beam was analyzed for energy distribution and angular distribution. For ion energy sufficiently high that the thermal energy of the gas can be neglected, the ion energy spread is less than 4 eV on‐axis and 90% of the ions are within 2.5° of the beam axis. It is concluded that the application of this technique to atmospheric composition studies will substantially improve our knowledge of the upper atmosphere of the earth and other ...
Psychosocial factors related to unrecognized acute myocardial infarction

Abstract Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) often is unrecognized (i.e., a patient fails to notice or report the event to the physician, or the physician fails to diagnose it). Psychosocial differences between patients with recognized and unrecognized AMI have not been examined. We compared 40 patients who sought treatment for a documented 3 AMI with 30 patients who were found on routine electrocardiogram to have had an AMI for which they did not seek medical care. Patients with unrecognized AMI showed greater “alexithymia,” or deficient psychologic awareness (p = 0.04; Alexithymia Provoked Response Interview), and a greater belief that chance factors determine their health (p = 0.004; Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale). Patients with unrecognized AMI were less likely to have angina, yet did not differ from those with recognized AMI with regard to demographics, smoking, systemic hypertension, diabetes mellkitus, AMI location, depression, or hypochondriasis. We hypothesize that deficient psychologic awareness may impede AMI symptom perception or recognition, and that the belief in chance or fate as determining health may inhibit treatment-seeking.