cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 5397: Human Valvular Heart Disease is Associated with a Phosphorylation-Mediated Modulation in Myocardial Thin Filament Performance

Background: Aortic Stenosis (AS) induces concentric left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) whereas mitral regurgitation (MR) induces an eccentric pattern of LVH. In association with these patterns of hypertrophy, wall stress tends to be normalized in AS and increased in MR. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that these patterns of hypertrophy are associated with distinct changes in thin filament function in patients with AS and MR. Methods and Results: Patients with symptomatic MR or AS and normal LV ejection fraction (EF) were identified at time of referral for valvular surgery. Patients undergoing coronary bypass grafting for stable coronary artery disease who had normal LVEF and no evidence of LVH were employed as controls. Epicardial biopsies were obtained from each group at the time of surgery and thin filaments subsequently isolated. Thin filament function was characterized with an in vitro motility assay in which skeletal muscle myosin was used as the motility substrate. Thin filaments isolated from patients with AS generated 34 ± 7% more force at maximally activating Ca++concentrations when compared to controls (p Conclusion: Thin filament function is dynamically modulated in human valvular heart disease. The reduction in force observed in the MR thin filaments is similar to that observed in failing human myocardial thin filaments and suggests that the observed changes in thin filament function in MR may be a precursor to the eventual development of LV contractile dysfunction. The alterations in contractile force observed may be the result of differences in wall stress characteristic of these two conditions.
The conic-paraboloid formulae for coarse woody material volume and taper and their approximation

The conic-paraboloid volume equation is receiving increased use with downed coarse woody material (CWM), but the consequences for taper have not been identified mathematically. Requiring that subdi...
Organ Harvesting and the Role of Anesthesiologist

The ability to procure and allocate organs is dependent on patient comorbidities, logistical factors and ethical considerations. The anesthesia team plays a critical role in supporting organ donation which may include donation after brain death (DBD) or donation after cardiac death (DCD) procurements. Careful monitoring and management of the donor patient’s circulatory, respiratory, hematologic and endocrine parameters specific to organ donation type can improve transplant outcomes for the recipient.
Nutrient content and nutrition labeling of several processed Florida citrus juice products.

From February 1986 to January 1988, samples of several processed Florida citrus juice products—frozen concentrated orange juice, orange juice from concentrate, pasteurized orange juice, grapefruit juice, and grapefruit juice from concentrate—were surveyed regularly during production. Samples were assayed for sodium, potassium, ascorbic acid, thiamin, calcium, iron, folic acid, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, and copper primarily for the purpose of nutrition labeling. Means, standard deviations of the means, and maximum and minimum values of each nutrient are expressed in mg/6 fl oz for each product. In addition, the estimated percentage of the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance (U.S. RDA) for each nutrient claimable at time of packing is given. (To be claimed on a nutrition label, a nutrient must occur at a minimum level of 2% of the U.S. RDA per serving, according to U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] regulations.) The estimated percentage of the U.S. RDA claimable for ascorbic acid ranged from 90% to 100% in the orange juice products and was 70% for the grapefruit juice products. These juices are all considered significant sources of vitamin C. In the orange juice products, the percentage of the U.S. RDA for thiamin ranged from 6% to 8% and was 8% for folic acid. Significantly smaller amounts of each vitamin were noted in the grapefruit juices. Small but claimable levels of magnesium, calcium, copper, and phosphorus were found in one or more of the products tested. Neither zinc nor iron was found at the U.S. RDA minimum level of 2%. Significant amounts of potassium, for which there is no established U.S. RDA, were found in all the citrus juice products. The sodium content of all the citrus juice products was negligible, qualifying each juice to be labeled "sodium free" according to FDA specifications. Significant variations in the mean amounts of certain nutrients were found in each of the products depending on the time of processing (month and year) and manufacturing plant.
Labeling an adverse drug event "preventable".

To head off preventable adverse events related to medication, physicians can take three important steps. First, they should define terms when inquiring about what other medications patients use. Second, they should ask patients how they will use their new medications instead of asking whether they understand the instructions for use. Third, they should go the extra mile to overcome language barriers, even if that means temporarily interrupting workflow.
Embryo transfer in animals.

Almost 100 years have passed since Heape (1891) reported the transfer of two-cell embryos from an Angora rabbit to the oviducts of a pregnant Belgian hare. This experiment showed that the reproductive tract of the recipient had no effect on the genetic composition of the fetus, because transferred embryos resulted in Angora offspring. The basic strategies behind embryo transfer remain the same today: synchrony of reproductive cycles between the recipient and donor, use of appropriate genetic markers, and transfer of preimplantation embryos to the lumen of the reproductive tract.
A high-throughput microtissue platform to probe endothelial function in vitro

A critical role of vascular endothelium is as a semi-permeable barrier, dynamically regulating the flux of solutes between blood and the surrounding tissue. Existing platforms that quantify endothelial function in vitro are either significantly throughput limited or overlook physiologically relevant extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions and thus do not recapitulate in vivo function. Leveraging droplet microfluidics, we developed a scalable platform to measure endothelial function in nanoliter-volume, ECM-based microtissues. In this study, we describe our high-throughput method for fabricating endothelial-coated collagen microtissues that incorporate physiologically relevant cell-ECM interactions. We showed that the endothelial cells had characteristic morphology, expressed tight junction proteins, and remodeled the ECM via compaction and deposition of basement membrane. We also measured macromolecular permeability using two optical modalities, and found the cell layers: (1) had permeability values comparable to in vivo measurements and (2) were responsive to physiologically-relevant modulators of endothelial permeability (TNF-α and TGF-β). This is the first demonstration, to the authors' knowledge, of high-throughput assessment (n > 150) of endothelial permeability on natural ECM. Additionally, this technology is compatible with standard cell culture equipment (e.g. multi-well plates) and could be scaled up further to be integrated with automated liquid handling systems and automated imaging platforms. Overall, this platform recapitulates the functions of traditional transwell inserts, but extends application to high-throughput studies and introduces new possibilities for interrogating cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions.
The Development of Oral History in the United States: the evolution toward interdisciplinary

This article discusses the development of oral history in the United States and how this has led the field to becoming interdisciplinary in interesting and useful ways. It traces its origins in the 17 th century and explains its establishment as method (oral data collection), a subfield of history (oral historiography) and a resource for teachers, communities, and researchers of all kinds (oral history). The author describes the practical applications of oral history in other fields such as anthropology, education/ teaching, ethnic studies/ethnohistory/American studies, folklore, gerontology, legal studies, literary history, media studies and media production, and women and gender studies. A review of oral history guides is also given. The article ends with an update on how oral historians are coping with the new, anti-intellectual orientation of President Trump and his right-wing agenda. Keywords: Oral History. USA. Oral Data Collection. History-Telling.
Role of the afferent renal nerves in sodium homeostasis and blood pressure regulation in rats.

NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? What are the differential roles of the mechanosensitive and chemosensitive afferent renal nerves in the reno-renal reflex that promotes natriuresis, sympathoinhibition and normotension during acute and chronic challenges to sodium homeostasis? What is the main finding and its importance? The mechanosensitive afferent renal nerves contribute to an acute natriuretic sympathoinhibitory reno-renal reflex that may be integrated within the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. Critically, the afferent renal nerves are required for the maintenance of salt resistance in Sprague-Dawley and Dahl salt-resistant rats and attenuate the development of Dahl salt-sensitive hypertension. ABSTRACT These studies tested the hypothesis that in normotensive salt-resistant rat phenotypes the mechanosensitive afferent renal nerve (ARN) reno-renal reflex promotes natriuresis, sympathoinhibition and normotension during acute and chronic challenges to fluid and electrolyte homeostasis. Selective ARN ablation was conducted prior to (1) an acute isotonic volume expansion (VE) or 1 m NaCl infusion in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and (2) chronic high salt intake in SD, Dahl salt-resistant (DSR), and Dahl salt-sensitive (DSS) rats. ARN responsiveness following high salt intake was assessed ex vivo in response to noradrenaline and sodium concentration (SD, DSR and DSS) and via in vivo manipulation of renal pelvic pressure and sodium concentration (SD and DSS). ARN ablation attenuated the natriuretic and sympathoinhibitory responses to an acute VE [peak natriuresis (µeq min-1 ) sham 52 ± 5 vs. ARN ablation 28 ± 3, P < 0.05], but not a hypertonic saline infusion in SD rats. High salt (HS) intake enhanced ARN reno-renal reflex-mediated natriuresis in response to direct increases in renal pelvic pressure (mechanoreceptor stimulus) in vivo and ARN responsiveness to noradrenaline ex vivo in SD, but not DSS, rats. In vivo and ex vivo ARN responsiveness to increased renal pelvic sodium concentration (chemoreceptor stimulus) was unaltered during HS intake. ARN ablation evoked sympathetically mediated salt-sensitive hypertension in SD rats [MAP (mmHg): sham normal salt 102 ± 2 vs. sham HS 104 ± 2 vs. ARN ablation normal salt 103 ± 2 vs. ARN ablation HS 121 ± 2, P < 0.05] and DSR rats and exacerbated DSS hypertension. The mechanosensitive ARNs mediate an acute sympathoinhibitory natriuretic reflex and counter the development of salt-sensitive hypertension.
Civic Agency and Political Engagement: Community Engagement's Enduring Influence.

Through in-depth interviews and focus groups with alumni from three institutions, the authors of this qualitative study explore the contours and desires of political engagement postgraduation. Givi...
A call to action: Pharmacy students as leaders in encouraging physical activity as a coping strategy to combat student stress

Abstract Introduction Pharmacy students share a prevailing sense of stress. Many methods to increase student wellness are pharmacy program specific and faculty driven. This commentary is a call to action for student pharmacists to take shared ownership over improving the current crisis of student well-being. Schools of pharmacy should empower their students to guide the improvement of student wellness. Student-led wellness initiatives can take many forms; this commentary will focus on a student-led walking group as means to bolster wellness within a school of pharmacy. Perspective Exercise activities promote school-life balance, and when initiated by peers, will naturally conform to their schedule and develop collegial support through socialization. Student pharmacists should begin with encouraging peers to engage in exercise as a positive coping mechanism. Students should lead their peers in developing activities and electronic device sharing to encourage socialization and positive coping mechanisms. Implications While many efforts are in place for faculty and schools of pharmacy to improve student well-being, little has been studied on the impact of student-led wellness programs. This article calls student pharmacists to take shared ownership over the student wellness crisis and find ways to intervene. Schools of pharmacy should empower students by providing supportive structures while allowing students to problem-solve and practice wellness themselves.
Functional Nanoassemblies with Mirror-Image Chiroptical Properties Templated by a Single Homochiral DNA Strand

For the supramolecular chemistry of self-assembly systems, a major goal is to achieve the level of control of the assembly process equal to the capabilities of classical asymmetric organic synthesi...
Time to diagnostic resolution after an uncertain screening mammogram in an underserved population

Background Screening mammography has reduced breast cancer-associated mortality worldwide. Approximately 10% of patients require further diagnostic testing after an uncertain screening mammogram (Breast imaging reporting and data system [BI-RADS] = 0), and time to diagnostic resolution varies after BI-RADS = 0 screening mammogram. There is little data about factors associated with diagnostic resolution in patients of Chinese origin ("Chinese") receiving care in the US. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis to identify patterns of diagnostic resolution in an urban US hospital with a large population of Chinese patients. We evaluated whether location of primary care provider (PCP) impacted time to resolution among Chinese patients, hypothesizing that patients with a PCP outside of the hospital would have longer time to diagnostic resolution than those patients with a PCP within the institution. Results Between 2015 and 2016, 368 patients at Tufts Medical Center (Tufts MC) had resulting BI-RADS = 0 after screening mammogram. The majority of patients (341/368, 93%) achieved diagnostic resolution with median time to resolution 27 days (Q1: 14, Q3: 40). Seven percent (27/368) never achieved resolution. Among those with diagnostic resolution, 10% of patients required >60 days to achieve resolution. Chinese origin, no previous breast cancer, subsidized insurance, and outside referring physician were associated with longer time to resolution in univariable analysis. In multivariable regression, after adjusting for age, insurance, marital status, and prior breast cancer, Chinese patients with Tufts MC PCP experienced timelier diagnostic resolution vs Chinese patients without a Tufts MC PCP (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.85, P = .02). Location of PCP did not impact time to resolution among non-Chinese patients. Conclusion We identified patterns of diagnostic resolution in an urban hospital with a large historically underserved population. We found that Chinese patients without integrated primary care within the institution are at risk for delayed diagnostic resolution. Future interventions need to target at-risk patients to prevent loss of follow-up after uncertain screening mammogram.
Targeting apoptosis in cancer therapy

For over three decades, a mainstay and goal of clinical oncology has been the development of therapies promoting the effective elimination of cancer cells by apoptosis. This programmed cell death process is mediated by several signalling pathways (referred to as intrinsic and extrinsic) triggered by multiple factors, including cellular stress, DNA damage and immune surveillance. The interaction of apoptosis pathways with other signalling mechanisms can also affect cell death. The clinical translation of effective pro-apoptotic agents involves drug discovery studies (addressing the bioavailability, stability, tumour penetration, toxicity profile in non-malignant tissues, drug interactions and off-target effects) as well as an understanding of tumour biology (including heterogeneity and evolution of resistant clones). While tumour cell death can result in response to therapy, the selection, growth and dissemination of resistant cells can ultimately be fatal. In this Review, we present the main apoptosis pathways and other signalling pathways that interact with them, and discuss actionable molecular targets, therapeutic agents in clinical translation and known mechanisms of resistance to these agents.
Preservation of Microalgae, Lignocellulosic Biomass Blends by Ensiling to Enable Consistent Year-Round Feedstock Supply for Thermochemical Conversion to Biofuels.

Seasonal variation in microalgae productivity is a significant barrier to economical production of algae biofuels and chemicals. Summer production can be 3-5 times higher than in the winter resulting in uneven feedstock supplies at algae biorefineries. A portion of the summer production must be preserved for conversion in the winter in order to maintain a biorefinery running at capacity. Ensiling, a preservation process that utilizes lactic acid fermentation to limit microbial degradation, has been demonstrated to successfully stabilize algae biomass (20% solids) and algae-lignocellulosic blends (40% algae-60% lignocellulosic biomass, dry basis) for over six months, resulting in fuel production cost savings with fewer emissions. Preservation of algae as blends could be beneficial to biorefineries that utilize thermochemical approaches to fuel production as co-processing of algae and lignocellulosic biomass has been observed to enhance biocrude yield and improve oil quality. This study conducts a resource assessment of biomass residues in the southern United States to identify materials available during peak algae productivity and in sufficient quantity to meet the algae storage needs of an algae biofuel industry. Eight feedstocks met the quantity threshold but only three, distillers grains, haylage, and yard waste, were also available in season. Storage experiments utilizing both freshwater and marine strains of microalgae – Scenedesmus acutus, Chlorella vulgaris, Chlorella zofingiensis, Nannochloropsis gaditana, and Porphyridium purpureum – and yard waste were conducted for 30 days. Storage losses were less than 10% in all but one case, and the pH of all but one blend was reduced to less than 4.7, indicating that yard waste is a suitable feedstock for blending with algae prior to storage. To better understand whether the benefits to conversion realized by processing blends might be affected by storage, elemental analysis and bomb calorimetry of pre- and post-storage algae-yard waste blends were conducted to characterize changes occurring during storage. Storing algae biomass as blends with lignocellulosic biomass could be an effective method of mitigating seasonal variability in algae biomass production while retaining the synergistic effect of co-processing algae blends in thermochemical conversion.
CFD Investigation of Dispersion of Airborne Particulate Contaminants in a Raised Floor Data Center

Modern data center facilities administrators are finding it increasingly difficult to lower the costs incurred in mechanical cooling of their IT equipment. This is especially true for high computing applications like Artificial Intelligence, Bitcoin Mining, Deep Learning, etc. Airside Economization/free air cooling reduces the mechanical cooling costs by using outside air to cool IT equipment under favorable ambient conditions. In this process, administrators risk their equipment to the exposure of fine particulate/ gaseous contaminants that might enter the data center facility with the cooling airflow. Literature suggests that the nature of failures caused by particulate contamination is very intermittent which makes the failures tough to predict. While the recommended filters can remove PM 10-2.5 , it's the fine and ultra-fine particulates like DPM (Diesel Particulate Matter), corrosive salts of high ionic content like sulfates and nitrates with low DRH (Deliquescent Relative Humidity) values that are the cause of concern. The present investigation utilizes a 3 - D CFD modeling of particle-laden flow in a rectangular flow domain, imitating the flow through floor tiles as in a raised floor data center. Literature was reviewed to study various numerical models that have been used for simulating particle dispersion and particle deposition in ventilated rooms, air ducts and particle behavior across physical obstructions of various geometries. A Discrete Phase Modeling approach was chosen using ANSYS FLUENT to calculate trajectories of the dispersed contaminants. 6SigmaRoom was used to predict accurate boundary and flow conditions of the fluid flow leaving the floor tiles.
Gender Disparity in Travel Demand Management of University Students and Employees

The Earn-a-Bike (EAB) program is a travel demand management (TDM) effort at the University of Louisville. It provides a $400 bike shop voucher for students and university employees to forgo their p...
Dynamics of the Tyson–Hong–Thron–Novak circadian oscillator model

Abstract We study the dynamics of a circadian oscillator model proposed by Tyson, Hong, Thron and Novak. This model describes a molecular mechanism for the circadian rhythm in Drosophila. After giving a detailed study of its equilibria, we investigate the dynamics in the cases that the rate of mRNA degradation is sufficiently high or low. When the rate is sufficiently high, we prove that there are no periodic orbits in the region with biological meaning. When the rate is sufficiently low, this model is transformed into a slow–fast system. Then based on the geometric singular perturbation theory, we prove the existence of relaxation oscillations, canard explosion, saddle–node bifurcations, and the coexistence of two limit cycles in this model. These results are helpful to understand the effects of biophysical parameters on circadian oscillations. Finally, we give the biological interpretation of the results and point out that this model can be transformed into a Lienard-like equation, which could be helpful to investigate the dynamics of the general case.
Helping Instructors Identify Course Design Flaws

In numerous workshops and course design retreats, we have modeled the course design process using a fictional course (entitled “Colorado Mountain Hiking”) to help instructors bridge the gap between...
Multi-scale architecture of archaeal chromosomes

Chromosome conformation capture (3C) technologies have identified topologically associating domains (TADs) and larger A/B compartments as two salient structural features of eukaryotic chromosomes. These structures are sculpted by the combined actions of transcription and structural maintenance of chromosomes (SMC) superfamily proteins. Bacterial chromosomes fold into TAD-like chromosomal interaction domains (CIDs) but do not display A/B compartment-type organization. We reveal that chromosomes of Sulfolobus archaea are organized into CID-like topological domains in addition to previously described larger A/B compartment-type structures. We uncover local rules governing the identity of the topological domains and their boundaries. We also identify long-range loop structures and provide evidence of a hub-like structure that colocalizes genes involved in ribosome biogenesis. In addition to providing high-resolution descriptions of archaeal chromosome architectures, our data provide evidence of multiple modes of organization in prokaryotic chromosomes and yield insights into the evolution of eukaryotic chromosome conformation.
Multiobjective Optimization of the Variability of the High-Performance Linpack Solver

Variability in the execution time of computing tasks can cause load imbalance in high-performance computing (HPC) systems. When configuring system- and application-level parameters, engineers traditionally seek configurations that will maximize the mean computational throughput. In an HPC setting, however, high-throughput configurations that do not account for performance variability could result in poor load balancing. In order to determine the effects of performance variance on computationally expensive numerical simulations, the High-Performance LINPACK solver is optimized by using multiobjective optimization to maximize the mean and minimize the standard deviation of the computational throughput on the High-Performance LINPACK benchmark. We show that specific configurations of the solver can be used to control for variability at a small sacrifice in mean throughput. We also identify configurations that result in a relatively high mean throughput, but also result in a high throughput variability.
Understanding Gaps Between Daily Living and Clinical Settings in Chronic Disease Management: Qualitative Study.

Background: Management of chronic conditions entails numerous activities in both clinical and daily living settings. Activities across these settings interact, creating a high potential for a gap to occur if there is an inconsistency or disconnect between controlled clinical settings and complex daily living environments. Objective: The aim of this study is to characterize gaps (from the patient’s perspective) between health-related activities across home-based and clinical settings using anticoagulation treatment as an example. The causes, consequences, and mitigation strategies (reported by patients) were identified to understand these gaps. We conceptualized gaps as latent phenomena (ie, a break in continuity). Methods: Patients (n=39) and providers (n=4) from the anticoagulation clinic of an urban, western mountain health care system were recruited. Data were collected through primary interviews with patients, patient journaling with tablet computers, exit interviews with patients, and provider interviews. Data were analyzed qualitatively using a theory-driven approach and framework method of analysis. Results: The causes of gaps included clinician recommendations not fitting into patients’ daily routines, recommendations not fitting into patients’ living contexts, and information not transferred across settings. The consequences of these gaps included increased cognitive and physical workload on the patient, poor patient satisfaction, and compromised adherence to the therapy plan. We identified resources and strategies used to overcome these consequences as patient-generated strategies, routines, collaborative management, social environment, and tools and technologies. Conclusions: Understanding gaps, their consequences, and mitigating strategies can lead to the development of interventions that help narrow these gaps. Such interventions could take the form of collaborative health information technologies, novel patient and clinician education initiatives, and programs that strongly integrate health systems and community resources. Current technologies are insufficient to narrow the gaps between clinical and daily living settings due to the limited number and types of routines that are tracked.
A review of clinical trials of advance care planning interventions adapted for limited health literacy.

OBJECTIVES Advance care planning is vital for ensuring individuals receive end-of-life care that is consistent with their care preferences and improves patient quality of life and satisfaction with care; however, only 11% of Americans have discussed advance care planning with a healthcare provider. Individuals with limited health literacy are even less likely to participate in advance care planning due to difficulty comprehending complex health information. The purpose of this review was to identify randomized controlled trials designed to address the effects of limited health literacy on advance care planning, evaluate the quality of these studies, and summarize evaluation data to inform future studies. METHODS This systematic review examined randomized controlled trials published from January 1997 to July 2020 using the PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus databases. Data were extracted and two reviewers independently evaluated the quality of studies using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool. RESULTS The database search yielded 253 studies and five studies were included in the final review. Studies were conducted in mostly White patients in outpatient clinics in the United States. Researchers wrote text at lower reading levels, added images to materials, and created videos to enhance communication. Health literacy interventions increased participant knowledge, preference for comfort care, engagement, and care documentation; however, several methodological issues were identified, including baseline differences in treatment and control groups, issues with blinding, lack of valid and reliable outcome measures, and inappropriate statistical analyses. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS More high-quality intervention studies that address the effects of limited health literacy on advance care planning in diverse populations and settings are needed. Future intervention studies should use reliable and valid instruments to measure advance care planning outcomes. Clinicians should use materials appropriate for their patients' health literacy levels to address their advance care planning needs.
Clinical measures of allostatic load in children and adolescents with food allergy, depression, or anxiety.

Abstract Purpose Sustained high stress exposure results in chronic activation of the stress response system, dysregulated stress responses, high allostatic load, and poor later-life health. Children and adolescents with chronic health conditions face stressors related to their condition in addition to those typical of childhood and adolescence, placing them at risk of high allostatic load. The purpose of this secondary analysis was to examine whether youth with chronic health conditions differ from controls on clinical measures of allostatic load. Design and methods A secondary analysis of two datasets, the electronic health record of a tertiary children's hospital and data from the Survey of the Health of Wisconsin, compared youth with chronic health conditions to controls on clinical measures of allostatic load. Additional analyses explored whether parental stress and mental health influenced these relationships. Results Analyses identified differences in BMI, blood pressure, and waist circumference between youth with food allergy, anxiety, or depression, and controls. These relationships differed for males and females and for those with comorbid mental and physical conditions, and were influenced by parent stress and mental health. Conclusions Results support future studies exploring whether high stress in youth with chronic health conditions leads to increased allostatic load. Incorporating biomarkers as well as genetic and epigenetic factors will provide critical insights. Practice implications Youth with mental and physical CHCs may be at increased risk of high allostatic load, reflected in clinical measures of metabolism, and should have regular assessments of their metabolic health.
A Preliminary Assessment of Phase Separator Ground-Based and Reduced-Gravity Testing for ALS Systems

A viewgraph presentation of phase separator ground-based and reduced-gravity testing for Advanced Life Support (ALS) systems is shown. The topics include: 1) Multiphase Flow Technology Program; 2) Types of Separators; 3) MOBI Phase Separators; 4) Experiment set-up; and 5) Preliminary comparison/results.
THE SOCIAL CONTRACT AND WELL-BEING IN THE USSR: A COMPARISON OF CENTRAL ASIA, KAZAKHSTAN, AND THE DONETS-DNIEPER REGION

Social contract theory is used to examine changes in well-being from 1959-1979 in three very different regions: a developed region, the Donets-Dnieper region in the Ukraine; a developing region, northern Kazakhstan; and a less-developed region, Central Asia. Four variables are analyzed: social services, social facilities, capital investment and new housing construction rates. Government initiatives during this period improved the well-being of those in the least-well-off regions, but were not sufficient to alter the existing regional rankings. However, the provision of social or cultural facilities did become more equitably distributed in 1979 than in 1959.
Breast biopsy techniques

Breast biopsy techniques have evolved significantly over the past century. Often, breast specialists will rely upon the breast surgeon to provide advice regarding which biopsy approach is preferred for a given clinical or imaging abnormality. The now-antiquated single-stage biopsy with frozen section analysis followed by immediate mastectomy procedure has been largely replaced by a two-stage approach, which emphasizes on accurate diagnosis as the first step and definitive surgery as a later step. The addition of breast-conserving approaches to the armamentarium of treatment options for breast cancer motivated aggressive expansion of alternative biopsy techniques. Open surgical biopsies (either excisional or incisional) are still considered gold standard methods for definitively establishing a cancer diagnosis; however, current standards stress the use of percutaneous needle biopsy, wherever possible, as the initial diagnostic tool. This diagnostic strategy is crucial for evaluation of abnormalities seen on screening mammography – many of which prove to be benign.
Freeze-etching studies of human platelets.

The freeze-etching technique was used to study morphologic features of normal human platelets. A well-developed canalicular system was demonstrated within the platelet, with communication to the plasma surface of the platelets and with direct contact of the canaliculi with organelles. Cross-section fractures of granules revealed compartmentalization in some while others appeared homogeneous. Several types of filamentous structures were observed within the matrix of the platelet. Microtubular subfilaments were approximately 80 A in diameter. Microfilaments were observed in other areas of platelets and had a diameter of 50-70 A, a size consistent with that described for actinoid filaments. The interior of the platelet membrane contained 85-A particles, while the membrane surface had a more granular appearance. Earlier morphologic descriptions of platelets prepared by fixation methods have been confirmed and expanded with this technique.
Using π2(1670)→b1(1235)π to constrain hadronic models

Abstract We show that current analyses of experimental data indicate that the strong decay mode π2→b1π is anomalously small. Non-relativistic quark models with spin-1 quark pair creation, such as 3 P 0 , 3 S 1 and 3 D 1 models, as well as instanton and lowest order one-boson (in this case π) emission models, can accommodate the analyses of experimental data, because of a quark-spin selection rule. Models and effects that violate this selection rule, such as higher order one-boson emission models, as well as mixing with other Fock states, may be constrained by the small π2→b1π decay. This can provide a viability check on newly proposed decay mechanisms. We show that for mesons made up of a heavy quark and anti-quark, the selection rule is exact to all orders of quantum chromodynamics (QCD) perturbation theory.
A Case Study in the Use of Extreme Programming in an Academic Environment

A group of graduate students working in a lab in a university have more distractions than a typical software development group in industry. With more distractions and fewer hours on site does it still make sense to use Extreme Programming (XP) in the development of software? Here we discuss our experience using XP in an academic environment in which the members of the development group have different schedules and other projects. We found that pair programming was an efficient and effective way to learn and share knowledge, and that unit testing and just-in-time design helped us get to an early, though scaled down release. Our interpretation of pair programming felt limited and awkward at first until we realized that we could and should spend time independently learning and researching the tasks in addition to the work we do in pairs.
Remarks on the noncommutative Wess-Zumino model

We first review the physics about the noncommutative ${\ensuremath{\Phi}}^{4}$ theory and Wess-Zumino model and their renormalization. Then the algebras of noncommutative field theories (NCFT's) are studied. From Neother currents, the field representation for the generators of NCFT's is extracted. Then, based on this representation, the commutation relations between the generators are calculated for NCFT's. The symmetry properties of NCFT's inferred from these commutation relations are discussed and compared with those of the commutative ones.
Aerobic, Selenium-Utilizing Bacillus Isolated from Seeds of Astragalus crotalariae

Abstract Bacillus sp. strain SS, an aerobic, gram-positive sporeformer, was isolated from seeds of Astragalus crotalariae, a selenium-accumulating plant. This bacillus grew in a nutrient broth (containing beef extract and peptone) if the medium was supplemented with high concentrations of selenium. Concentrations of Na2SeO3 that supported growth ranged from 3 to 100 mM. After 24 h of growth, the culture developed a deep red color characteristic of elemental selenium. When selenium was provided in the form of selenate, the pattern of growth showed a prolonged lag period, from 24 to 48 h. Final growth remained below that of cells cultured in the presence of selenite, and only a light red color developed. Concentrations of selenate below 40 mM failed to support growth. Tellurate, though not tellurite, could replace selenite, but only over a narrow concentration range, 5 to 10 mM. By 24 h, the typical black color of elemental tellurium developed. Bacillus sp. strain SS grew also in brain heart infusion broth and Trypticase soy broth (BBL Microbiology Systems, Cockeysville, Md.) without the addition of selenium or tellurium compounds. When added to these media, 50 mM selenite was tolerated and metabolized by the organism. The crucial distinction between this bacillus and other selenium-tolerant organisms (e.g., Salmonella) remains: under certain conditions, growth requirements of Bacillus sp. strain SS are fulfilled by selenium (and tellurium) compounds.
On the time course of rapid and repeatable response induction

As reinforcers are delivered for a particular response, that response increases. Other similar responses also increase, with the extent to which this increase is seen being positively related to the similarity between the responses. This process, called induction, is pronounced during initial response acquisition, and dissipates as the target response is established. The present experiment examined this process in a paradigm wherein responses to one of five nose poke receptacles results in reinforcement for six sessions in each condition and the target location changes between conditions. Consistent patterns of induction were seen across conditions, with patterns of induction dissipating within each condition.
Neutralizing antibody spectrum determines the antigenic profiles of emerging mutants of visna virus

The visna viruses are antigenically related nononcogenic retroviruses of sheep. The original strain was isolated from the brain of a paralyzed sheep in Iceland during the 1940s. The prototype strains has been passed serially in sheep and has undergone progressive antigenic change. Previous reports have shown that such antigenic changes in visna virus can be reproduced in infected cell cultures treated with neutralizing antibody. We now show that the antigenic profiles of the emerging mutants directly reflect the nature of the selecting antibody. Mutants with minor antigenic changes were selected by "early" sera which had a limited neutralization range. Mutants with greater antigenic changes were selected by "late" sera with a wide neutralization range. Mutants selected by early sera emerged rapidly and consistently in cultures, and these were antigenically very similar to one another. Mutants rarely emerged in cultures treated with late sera, but these viruses showed major antigenic changes. The data suggest that the evolution of antigenic mutants of visna virus progresses by a series of minor mutations which accumulate under the selective pressure of antibody.
Defining the worker-client relationship

The social work literature has comes or products desired from the re consistently accorded the relationship lationship, and (3) the responses from between worker and client a central the practitioner necessary to accom role in treatment. Yet, in spite of the plish those outcomes. Implications for near consensus regarding its impractice, social work theory, and re portance in facilitating change in search will be discussed, clients, the precise nature of this re lationship and the manner in which it contributes to treatment has not been IMPORTANCE OF RELATIONSHIP
Computerized Grade Calculations for Academic Advisors

Advisees often want to know what their grade averages will be if they earn certain grades this term or what grades they need to reach a desired average. Computerized grade calculations can be used to answer these questions easily and accurately. Spreadsheet and HyperCard versions of grade calculation programs are described.
Risk of recurrent stress incontinence in women undergoing the combined modified pereyra procedure and transvaginal sacrospinous ligament vault suspension.

Abstract Objectives. To determine the risk of recurrent stress urinary incontinence in women undergoing the combined modified Pereyra procedure and sacrospinous ligament vault suspension. Methods. A retrospective analysis of 62 patients who underwent the modified Pereyra procedure at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center between October 1, 1993 and July 10, 1999 for stress urinary incontinence was performed. Results. The study group consisted of 62 patients treated for stress incontinence; 34 (55%) of the 62 patients underwent the modified Pereyra procedure for stress incontinence, and 28 (45%) underwent the combined modified Pereyra procedure and sacrospinous ligament vault suspension for stress incontinence and coexistent uterine and/or vaginal vault prolapse. Patients undergoing the modified Pereyra procedure without vaginal vault suspension had higher subjective (91% versus 64%, P = 0.01) and objective (88% versus 61%, P = 0.02) cure rates of stress urinary incontinence compared with the patients undergoing the combined modified Pereyra procedure and sacrospinous ligament vault suspension. The mean follow-up period for the patients undergoing the modified Pereyra procedure (23 ± 14.4 months) was similar to that of the patients undergoing the combined modified Pereyra procedure and sacrospinous ligament vault suspension (26 ± 9.4 months) (P = 0.3). Compared with the objectively cured patients, patients with objective failure demonstrated postoperative bladder neck hypermobility and a higher rate of recurrent grade 2 or greater anterior vaginal prolapse. Eleven patients had postoperative detrusor instability, and 2 patients who underwent sacrospinous ligament vault suspension developed recurrent grade 3 apical vault prolapse. Conclusions. Patients undergoing the combined modified Pereyra procedure and sacrospinous ligament vault suspension have high rates of recurrent stress urinary incontinence.
Comparative In Vitro Activity and Clinical Pharmacology of Ticarcillin and Carbenicillin

The in vitro activity and human pharmacology of ticarcillin, a semisynthetic penicillin more active than carbenicillin against Pseudomonas , were compared. There has been no increase in resistance to ticarcillin of Pseudomonas strains over the past 5 years, but resistance of indole-positive Proteus and Serratia strains has been documented. After intramuscular (i.m.) injection of 1 g of ticarcillin, mean peak levels occurred at 1 h (26.9 μg/ml) with a decline over 6 h (6.8 μg/ml). Serum half-life was 84 min. Dilution of ticarcillin lidocaine reduced pain on i.m. injection but did not alter serum levels. Blood levels after 1 g i.m. are adequate to treat infections produced by Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis , and some Enterobacter , but not Pseudomonas . After rapid intravenous infusion of 3 and 5 g, mean peak serum levels of ticarcillin were slightly lower for 1 h than those achieved with carbenicillin. Probenecid administered before infusion produced increases in blood levels, half-lives, and volume of distribution. The biological half-life of ticarcillin was 72 min compared to 66 min with carbenicillin. There was a larger volume of distribution for ticarcillin than carbenicillin (15 liters versus 14 liters). The ticarcillin half-life when administered with probenecid was 108 min. Urinary recovery of ticarcillin was 77% against 95% of carbenicillin. However, approximately 10% of ticarcillin is recovered as penicilloic acid so that 95% of an intravenously administered dose is recovered.
Alternanthera mosaic virus Found in Scutellaria, Crossandra, and Portulaca spp. in Florida

In the fall of 1998, the Division of Plant Industry (DPI) received vegetative propagations of Scutellaria longifolia (skullcap) with symptoms of foliar mosaic, chlorotic/necrotic ringspots, and wavy line patterns from a nursery in Manatee County. Flexuous particles approximately 500 nm long were found with electron microscopy. The plants tested positive for Papaya mosaic virus (PaMV) in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test with antiserum to PaMV (Agdia, Elkhart, IN). However, in immunodiffusion tests (antiserum from D. Purcifull, University of Florida), this virus gave a reaction of partial identity indicating it was related but not identical to PaMV (1). The original infected plants were kept in a greenhouse. In January 2005, a specimen of Crossandra infundibuliformis (firecracker plant) with mosaic symptoms was submitted to the DPI from a nursery in Alachua County. Inclusions found with light microscopy and particles found with electron microscopy indicated that this plant was infected with...
Optical detection in microscopic domains. 2. Inner filter effects for monitoring nonfluorescent molecules with fluorescence.

In this research, we test whether optical detection techniques show different characteristics in microscopic solution volumes (nano-, pico-, and femtoliter range) compared to the usual macroscopic samples. In part 1 (Lu, H.; et al. Anal. Chem. 2000, 72, 1569−1576.) absorption spectra of high quality were obtained, quantitatively obeying both Beer−Lambert's law and the law of superposition, despite the micrometer optical path lengths and the curvatures of the droplets studied. Addition and subtraction of absorbing molecules with diffusional microburets (DMBs), as well as more complex operations (simultaneous addition of one and subtraction of another molecule, and a consuming scheme), have been monitored with good spectral and temporal resolution. Despite the unexpectedly good performance of absorption microspectrometry, fluorescence-based detection schemes are considered more sensitive for microscopic studies (e.g., cell physiology). In this paper, we test whether fluorescence-based schemes can be used to...
Limit cycle oscillations of two-dimensional panels in low subsonic flow

Limit cycle oscillations of a two-dimensional panel in low subsonic flow have been studied theoretically and experimentally. The panel is clamped at its leading edge and free at its trailing edge. A structural non-linearity arises in both the bending stiffness and the mass inertia. Two-dimensional incompressible (linear) vortex lattice aerodynamic theory and a corresponding reduced order aerodynamic model were used to calculate the linear flutter boundary and also the limit cycle oscillations (that occur beyond the linear flutter boundary).