cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Long-range dispersion-corrected density functional for noncovalent interactions

Noncovalent interactions are important in determining structures and properties of molecular complexes and biological molecules, and for understanding adsorption processes in chemistry and biologic...
Spatiotemporal Drivers of Hydrochemical Variability in a Tropical Glacierized Watershed in the Andes

Little is currently known about the hydrochemistry of tropical glacierized mountain watersheds, which are among the most vulnerable systems in the world. Glacier retreat may impact their export of ...
Controlled Movement of Complex Double Emulsions via Interfacially Confined Magnetic Nanoparticles.

Controlled, dynamic movement of materials through noncontacting forces provides interesting opportunities in systems design. Confinement of magnetic nanoparticles to the interfaces of double emulsi...
Use of fibrin adhesive for preventing pharyngocutaneous fistula in total laryngectomy.

Abstract Background Minimizing pharyngocutaneous fistula after total laryngectomy is a perpetual focus for head and neck surgeons. Multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors have been implicated in the wound healing process. Activated fibrin glue uniquely promotes healing as a tissue adhesive as well as a biochemical growth factor. Methods We present a pilot case series of total laryngectomy with simple pharyngeal closure with a single surgeon. Fibrin tissue adhesive was incorporated in all patients along with standardized pre-operative, operative, and post-operative care. Outcomes measured included pharyngocutaneous fistula rate, perioperative complications, and other wound complications as well as long term swallowing function and voice rehab outcomes. We also present a review of the literature for the theoretical basis of using fibrin glue as well as other similar applications. Results Fibrin tissue adhesive was successfully used in 18 consecutive patients undergoing total laryngectomy and pharyngoplasty. Despite the presence of a variety of wound healing risk factors including prior radiation and tobacco use, there were no pharyngocutaneous fistulas or other significant wound problems. No locoregional or free tissue overlay flap was done. Conclusion Fibrin tissue glue is a readily available, easily applied, and cost-effective adjunct that may reduce pharyngocutaneous fistula.
Performance Characteristics of Positive Expiratory Pressure Devices.

BACKGROUND: Positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy imposes expiratory flow resistance to increase airway diameter and enhance mucus clearance. PEP is achieved several ways. Oscillatory PEP devices (OPEP) generate repeated occlusions that are known to reduce mucus viscosity. There are many marketed devices, but comparative performance is mostly unreported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate performance characteristics of many PEP/OPEP devices. For OPEP devices, we defined an optimal performance metric by creating an oscillation index that combines the OPEP performance characteristics. METHODS: PEP devices (TheraPEP, EzPAP, VersaPAP, Resistex, AccuPEP, AccuPAP, and Threshold PEP) and OPEP devices (Acapella DH, Acapella DM, Acapella Choice, ShurClear, Aerobika, VibraPEP, vPEP, and PocketPEP with and without the Oxyjet attachment) were tested by adjusting simulated expiratory flow from 5 L/min to 30 L/min in increments of 5 L/min using a standard flow meter. RESULTS: All devices showed varying performance characteristics. As expiratory flow increased, mean PEP increased for most devices. The TheraPEP showed a mean PEP of 13 cm H2O across all settings. For OPEP devices, there was a major difference between pressure and flow waveforms. The Acapella DH, ShurClear, and Aerobika showed the highest flow amplitude, flow frequency, and oscillation index. CONCLUSIONS: PEP devices behaved similarly and as expected, with increased pressure with increased flow (flow resistors) or flow independence (threshold resistors). There was much greater variation in the performance of the OPEP devices. A higher oscillation index indicates better mechanical performance characteristics. Many devices have similar characteristics. However, the devices with the highest oscillation index have the highest flow amplitude and frequency, which may indicate better clinical performance.
Reliable Energy Sources as a Foundation for Reliable Intermittent Systems

This paper defines architectural and operational principles for simple and reliable energy harvesting devices that can be used in service of high-level applications. For many maintenance and monitoring tasks, we propose that it is more valuable to have reliable, trusted affirmations that nothing has changed than it is to know the exact moment that something has failed. This presents an opportunity for a new class of highly reliable, but not necessarily timely, intermittent devices. These are devices that are capable of sending messages at reasonable, fixed intervals (e.g. once an hour or once a day). They cannot activate more often, but they also promise not to activate less often. To establish this reliability, we look to opportunities for energy scavenging that are often ignored as their instantaneous power delivery capability is very limited. However, unlike higher power scavenging opportunities, many of these sources are not intermittent. Such sources may provide less than a microwatt, but their trickle of energy will be continuously, reliably available for months to decades. This enables the creation of devices that can be guaranteed to activate at predictable intervals, which allows for the construction of non-intermittent systems atop intermittent devices.
American Overreach: Strategic Interests and Millennial Ambitions in the Middle East

This article argues that American actions in the Middle East designed to advance democracy and/or ‘moderation’ tend to yield perverse outcomes that frustrate the aspirations of local actors while undermining the values purportedly being promoted by the U.S. In order to explain these contradictions, we emphasize the linkage between policies of democracy promotion and long-standing American commitments both to millennialism and geographical omnipresence. As a result of these policies and geopolitical vision, we argue that ‘democracy promotion’ often devolves into a simple defense of American interest – by producing electoral outcomes designed to strengthen local agents seen as compliant with U.S. regional priorities. In this context, the shift from democracy promotion to a policy of pursuing ‘moderation’ in the region, understood as support for American policies, is entirely coherent. Commentators tend to present this shift (particularly in the wake of the Iraq War) as recognition by U.S. political actors of the imperial overtones embedded in more heavy-handed approaches to regime change. Yet, the call for moderation is itself profoundly intertwined with American millennial aspirations, while remaining remarkably devoid of clear content and thus equally amenable to manipulation for strategic ends. By way of conclusion, we suggest an alternative basis for a less intrusive American position in the region, one that rejects the need for an overstretched territorial presence and that is grounded in a substantive respect for local self-determination.
A Comparison of Elementary, Secondary and Student Teachers' Perceptions and Practices Related to History of Science Instruction.

Snow (1959) has long argued the gap between `two cultures' – those of the scientific world and those who are engaged inhumanities professions. Thesetwo cultures apparently are still segregated due to the lack of understanding, and often result in misrepresentations of each other. As science becomes increasingly more specialized and fragmented, the history of science has been proposedas a science instructional approach to provide students a broadening and unifying experience. The historical approach in science learning allows students to analyze historical methods and apply them to current science practice. Ninety-six teachers were surveyed to assess their perceptions related to the instructional role of the history of science and to describe instructional practices that they use to integrate the history of science in their science curriculum.
Arc_Mat, a Toolbox for Using ArcView Shape Files for Spatial Econometrics and Statistics

The ability to use statistical functionality for spatial modeling and analysis in conjunction with a mapping interface in the same environment has received a great deal of attention in the spatial analysis literature. We demonstrate the feasibility of extracting map polygon and database information from ESRI’s ArcView shape files for use in statistical software environments. Specifically, we show that information containing map polygons can be used in these environments to produce high quality mapping functionality. Improvements in recent computer graphics hardware and software allow basic plotting functionality that is part of statistical software environments to produce mapping functionality based on the high quality ArcView map polygons.
Context and Task Effects on Choice Deferral

This article reviews recent research that has examined consumer decision making when the option of not choosing any of the alternatives is provided. The attractiveness of the decision outcomes and the difficulty of choosing are posited to be two key factors that determine the preference for a no-choice option. Building on the notion that preferences are often constructed, it is proposed that task and contextual variables can alter how the choice situation is evaluated on the two factors and consequently choice incidence. Several experiments that explore and manipulate decision attractiveness and decision difficulty are reviewed, and areas for future research are suggested. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of these results for research on consumer choice.
The Effects of Plastic Anisotropy in Warm and Hot Forming of Magnesium Sheet Materials

Mg alloy sheet materials often exhibit plastic anisotropy at room temperature as a result of the limited slip systems available in the HCP lattice combined with a commonly strong basal texture. Less well studied is plastic anisotropy developed at the elevated temperatures associated with warm and hot forming. At these elevated temperatures, particularly above 200°C, the activation of additional slip systems significantly increases ductility. However, plastic anisotropy is also induced at elevated temperatures by a strong crystallographic texture, and it can require an accounting in material constitutive models to achieve accurate forming simulations. The type and degree of anisotropy under these conditions depend on both texture and deformation mechanism. The current understanding of plastic anisotropy in Mg AZ31B and ZEK100 sheet materials at elevated temperatures is reviewed in this article. The recent construction of material forming cases is also reviewed with strategies to account for plastic anisotropy in forming simulations.
Creep Behavior of Glass/Ceramic Sealant Used in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

High operating temperature of solid oxide fuel cells require that sealant must function at high temperature between 600o and 900oC and in the oxidizing and reducing environments of fuel and air. It should be noted that creep deformation becomes relevant for a material when the operating temperature is near or exceeds half of its melting temperature (in degrees of Kelvin). The operating temperatures for most of the solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) under development in the SECA program are around 800oC, which exceeds the glass transition temperature Tg for most glass ceramic materials. The goal of the study is to develop a creep model to capture the creep behavior of glass ceramic materials at high temperature and to investigate the effect of creep of glass ceramic sealant materials on stresses in glass seal and on the various interfaces of glass seal with other layers. The self-consistent creep models were incorporated into SOFC-MP and Mentat FC, and finite element analyses were performed to quantify the stresses in various parts. The stress in glass seals were released due to its creep behavior during the operating environments.
Expansion of vasopressin/oxytocin memory research I: peripheral administration.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the expansion of vasopressin/oxytocin (VP/OT) memory research I. The effects of VP and/or OT in laboratory rats and mice, as well as in young mentally healthy human subjects are investigated. In all instances these neurohypophysial hormones are peripherally administered and comprised either the parent peptide or their behaviorally active and highly potent metabolic fragments. The tasks are designed to assess one or more phases of long-term memory, and in some cases short-term memory. The animal studies presented in the chapter examine the roles of the neurohypophysial hormones in learning and memory, tested in a variety of aversive and apptitive tasks that, in turn, form the basis of the section's organization. These studies emphasize the role of OT in cognitive processing, and thereby complement the focus on VP, which characterized the human research.
Transition of Window Breakdown from the Vacuum Multipactor Discharge to the Collisional RF Plasm

In high-power microwave systems, we investigate the transition of breakdown from single surface vacuum multipactor discharge to collisional rf plasma in argon. As the gas pressure increases, electron-neutral collisions prevail against secondary electron emissions. In addition, the discharge formation time is obtained as a function of the gas pressure.
An Effective Method for Storing and Retrieving PROLOG Clauses from a Relational Database

A method for storing and retrieving arbitrary complex PROLOG clauses from a relational database is presented. The presented method can be used to implement a filter module that sits on top of the database management system (DBMS) and offers clause retrieval functions to the PROLOG interpreter. This filter accepts arbitrary complex goal literals and returns all clauses (potentially) matching the goal. The method is flexible enough to support an wide range of filter selectivity, i.e. it can be used to implement highly selective as well as arbitrary rough filters. The structures needed to represent clauses in the DBMS are simple: Each clause is entirely stored in a single tuple, which also contains all information needed for selection purposes. To retrieve the clauses matching a given goal, one DBMS query operating on a single table is to be executed, independent of the complexity of the stored clauses and the degree of selectivity provided by the filter.
Analysis of a Flooded Heat Exchanger.

Flooded heat exchangers are often used in industry to reduce the required heat-transfer area and the size of utility control valves. These units involve a condensing vapor on the hot side that accumulates as a liquid phase in the lower part of the vessel. The heat transfer occurs mostly in the vapor space, but the condensate becomes somewhat subcooled before it leaves the heat exchanger. The analysis of the system is quite interesting for several reasons. The heat-transfer coefficients are different in the two phases. Heat-transfer areas in the two phases depend on the height of liquid. This paper demonstrates how this type of system can be studied using experimental data from a pilot-scale flooded heat exchanger. The experiment provides a mechanism for improving students’ understanding of basic heat-transfer principles, particularly since phase changes must be considered.
Mechanism of fluorescence concentration quenching of carboxyfluorescein in liposomes: energy transfer to nonfluorescent dimers.

When 5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (6CF) is encapsulated in liposomes at 0.2 M, 97-98% of the fluorescence is quenched. We have studied the mechanism of this effect. The dye-liposome system is a special case of concentration quenching of dyes, a phenomenon recognized for 100 years. Absorption spectra of encapsulated dye show that 6CF dimerizes, and the dimer is nonfluorescent. The dimerization constant was estimated, and it was concluded that dimerization can account for only part of the quenching. In 6CF solutions, the fluorescence lifetime decreased drastically as concentration was changed over the narrow range 0.02-0.05 M, a finding which was attributed to energy transfer to dimers. Inhibition of dimerization by propylene glycol also inhibited the shortening of lifetime. Forster critical transfer distances were calculated to be 51 and 57 A for monomer-monomer and monomer-dimer transfer, respectively. Monomer-monomer transfer was demonstrated directly by steady-state or time-resolved anisotropy experiments, while transfer to dimer was modeled by using sulforhodamine B, which has a critical transfer distance like that for the dimer and also quenches 6CF emission. No direct evidence for collisional self-quenching of 6CF could be found, although a model compound, salicylate, did quench weakly. For xanthene dyes, the rate of energy transfer is much faster than that for quenching collisions, implying that collisional quenching in the usual 6CF-liposome system is insignificant. The reason why 6CF is not 100% quenched in liposomes is attributed to dye interaction with lipid as evidenced by (i) multiexponential decay of 6CF in liposomes with a long component of 3-4 ns, (ii) inhibition of dimerization in liposomes, (iii) partial protection of dye from quenching by KI, (iv) differing amounts of dimerization in liposomes made from different kinds of phospholipid, and (v) enhancement of fluorescence lifetime in the presence of Triton X-100.
Postsecondary enrollment and academic decision making: Family influences on women college students of mexican descent

(2002). Postsecondary Enrollment and Academic Decision Making: Family Influences on Women College Students of Mexican Descent. Equity & Excellence in Education: Vol. 35, No. 1, pp. 59-69.
The demonstration of photochemical reducing sites in Chromatium sp.

DYAn [I] used blue tetrazolium to demonstrate intracellular particles exhibiting marked reducing activity in illuminated and in non-illuminated plant tissues. The blue-black reduced tetrazolium appeared in granules dispersed throughout the cytoplasm of blue-green algae and within the intracellular chloroplasts of green algae and higher plants. Since the dye was reduced more rapidly and at more numerous sites in illuminated than in non-illuminated cells, she concluded that these stained particles probably represented grana. We have demonstrated similar sites in isolated bean leaf chloroplasts [4]. The present investigation was undertaken to adapt the blue tetrazolium technique to the study of the photosynthetic bacterium, Chromatium sp., and to demonstrate, if possible, the intracellular loci of photochemical reduction. The preliminary results reported here indicate that this technique is more convenient and may prove to be more specific and more reliable than growth or respirometric methods for studying the photoskythetic and dark metabolism of specific substrate by these organisms. Cells were grown in liquid media containing either sodium sulfide or sodium thiosulfate [3], harvested by centrifugation, washed twice with and finally resuspended in 0.01 M phosphate buffer, pH 7.0. The indicator solution was prepared by dissolving 1 mg of tetrazolium blue (Nutritional Biochemicals Corporation) in 30 ml of 0.03 M phosphate buffer, pH 7.0. Solutions of substrate were prepared in tap water and contained either 0.5 per cent Na,S * 9 H,O or 1.0 per cent Na,S,O, * 5 H,O. One ml of the indicator solution was mixed in a Thunberg tube with 1 ml of a IO per cent suspension of cells and 1 ml of either tap water or substrate solution. The tubes were evacuated for three minutes with a water aspirator and sealed. All tubes were prepared in duplicate. One series was placed in a water bath at 27°C and illuminated from below with a loo-watt incandescent bulb in a reflector desk lamp. The second series was completely wrapped with aluminium foil to exclude light and placed in the same bath. The incubation period was varied from I to 24 hours. Although we have not been able to prevent photoreduction of tetrazolium in illuminated cells lacking exogenous subtrate, we have succeeded in delaying for more than an hour any detectable evidence for the reduction by using cells which had been depleted of interfering endogenous materials (starved cells). Usually, intense illumination for two hours was sufficient to starve buffered suspensions of cells which had been harvested from thiosulfate medium. Cells grown in sulfide medium normally contained intracellular sulfur droplets which disappeared only after several days of illumination. Consequently, sulfid-grown cells were not starved for the tetrazolium tests.
Antarctic circumpolar current: space and time fluctuations in the Drake Passage

New oceanic data on the structure and variability of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) in the Drake Passage and its interaction with the atmosphere have revealed a more complex spatial structure than has been seen before. They also show a significant coherence between surface wind and deep current at short periods. These new results will be essential in understanding the role of processes in the polar regions in global climate dynamics.
Predictors of Participation in Health Promotion Activities by Elderly Couples

The purpose of this study is to identify predictors of participation in health promotion activities by elderly couples. Fifty-nine couples who had been married 35 years or more were recruited throu...
The hero as survivor: Reflections on Anand's untouchable

(1980). The hero as survivor: Reflections on Anand's untouchable. World Literature Written in English: Vol. 19, No. 1, pp. 84-91.
Development of predictable periapical lesion monitored by subtraction radiography

Forty-eight teeth of two baboons were used to establish a methodology for the development of predictable periapical lesions. The canines and third molars were used as controls. All pre- and post-operative radiographs were taken using modified Precision® X-ray beam guiding to maintain exposure geometry. After routine endodontic access preparation, the pulps were damaged 3–4 mm short of the apex, dental plaque was introduced and mixed with pulp debris, and the access opening was closed with amalgam. Control radiographs were taken at 7-day intervals. Ten experimental and two control teeth were used for each observation period of 1, 4, 8, and 20 weeks. The radiographs were analyzed using computerized temporal subtraction. After the animals were killed, the specimens were processed for histologic examination. In all cases, pulpal necrosis and bacteria were present in the root canal, and in the periapical area adjacent to necrotic tissue. The periapical lesions had a mixture of inflammatory cells, with predominance of plasma cells, lymphocytes and multinucleated cells. Racliographic analysis by subtraction radiography showed hard tissue changes as early as 7 days. The method predictably developed periapical lesions, which could be monitored by subtraction radiography, and there was a correlation established between radiographic and histologic findings.
From knowledge accumulation to accommodation: cycles of collective cognition in work groups

A framework for collective cognition in the workplace is developed to provide guidance to groups, their leaders, and researchers interested in understanding and improving cognitive processes. First, phases of the process and elements essential at each phase are identified based on prior research. Next, a series of catalysts are proposed which help bring about potential movement through the phases. Propositions regarding these catalysts are suggested to demonstrate the verifiability of the framework and guide future research and practice. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemically vapor deposited Si nanowires nucleated by self-assembled Ti islands on patterned and unpatterned Si substrates

Abstract When Ti is deposited on Si in the 600–700°C temperature range, the lattice mismatch between the Ti-containing deposit and the Si substrate causes TiSi x nanoislands to form. The nanoislands grow when annealed at temperatures above 800°C. When the nanoislands (either unannealed or annealed) are exposed to a Si-containing precursor gas, the Ti catalyzes the decomposition of the gas, allowing one-dimensional nanowires to grow. If oxide-patterned Si substrates are used, the Ti islands form selectively on the exposed Si and are preferentially positioned near the pattern edges. The subsequently grown Si nanowires are, therefore, positioned with respect to the larger lithographically formed pattern. Exposing the wires to an ion beam after deposition promotes the parallel alignment of nanowires.
Effects of acute barbiturate administration, tolerance and dependence on brain GABA system: comparison to alcohol and benzodiazepines.

Central nervous system depressants, e.g., barbiturates, alcohol and benzodiazepines, have a wide spectrum of activity in humans and animals. Evidence accumulated suggests that some of the pharmacological actions exerted by these agents may be mediated through GABA system by mimicking GABAergic transmission. This review attempts to summarize the evidence available as to how the GABA system plays a part in the barbiturate actions and the development of tolerance to and physical dependence on barbiturates. The comparisons of the effects of alcohol, barbiturates and benzodiazepines at different steps of GABA synapse are also presented. Furthermore, the results which have been reported in the literature are inconsistent. This may be due to differences in: (a) animal models used; (b) brain regions used; (c) protocols (dose, duration, form and route of administration, etc.) used in treating animals and/or (d) techniques (pharmacological, biochemical, physiological, etc.) used.
Spin-flip Raman scattering and magnetization measurements on (Cd, Mn)S

Abstract Spin-flip Raman scattering and magnetization measurements are reported for the semimagnetic semiconductor Cd1-xMnxS, x = 0.023. The data at 1.9 K and high fields (near saturation) give the exchange energy αNo = 217 ±11 meV. At low fields, the spin-flip energy for donor-bound electrons contains the predicted contribution from the excess local magnetization near the donors. Magnetoresistance and Hall data are also reported.
Kinetics of Phase Separation in Segmented Polyurethanes.

The phase-separation process in segmented copolymers is treated by first-order kinetics which couples with the Fox equation to derive an expression for describing the change of soft segment Tg with the annealing time. Kinetic data of five commercial polyurethanes have been analyzed. The studies conclude that the phase-segregation mechanisms involve two elementary steps which can be characterized by two discrete relaxation times. It has been shown quantitatively that a polyether-based polyurethane (ET) recovers its original domain structure faster than a polyester soft-segment material. The average activation energy of the demixing process of an ET polyurethane is found to be about 23 kJ.mol−1 and is not influenced by hydrogen bonding.
Commentary: Cultural effectiveness--ask and listen.

The article by Sidelinger et al1 describes 2 programs for introducing pediatric residents to culturally effective care. Through partnerships with community-based organizations, these programs provide hands-on experiences for residents to learn directly from the community, outside of the academic hospitals in which residents spend most of their time. Residents also read books that highlight how culture interacts with medicine and have discussions lead by community partners or pediatric faculty. Both programs are based on the understanding that the community cannot get the assistance it needs until it is asked what it wants and how it would best receive that assistance. When community groups are involved in developing curricula and programs, they do not feel that residents have been imposed on them. The community and academic center begin to build trust by working together. The onus must be on hospitals to demonstrate … Address correspondence to Noel B. Rosales, MD, Cultural Effectiveness Initiative, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 34th and Civic Center Boulevard, Patient Care Operations Executive Offices, 8th Floor, Main Hospital, Room 8582, Philadelphia, PA 19104. E-mail: rosales{at}email.chop.edu
The Effect of Spatial Resolution of Remotely Sensed Data in Dasymetric Mapping of Residential Areas

This study explores the effect of spatial resolution on outcomes of dasymetric mapping using remotely sensed data, particularly the 30 m multispectral (MS) and 15 m panchromatic (PAN) spatial resolutions of Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper (ETM), 15 m of ASTER, and 1 m of airborne color infrared (CIR) imagery for Black Hawk County, Iowa. These images were classified to produce urban land cover maps. Then, dasymetric maps for population density were developed using residential areas derived from remotely sensed data and various GIS layers. The effect of spatial resolution on dasymetric maps was evaluated using traditional choropleth maps and a differentiation matrix. The accuracy of dasymetric maps with different spatial resolutions was assessed using highly detailed population density maps generated from the residential building footprints. The analysis demonstrates that dasymetric maps with higher spatial resolution tend to exhibit higher levels of accuracy. However, with higher spatial resolution data, ...
Expert systems are here, now

Abstract Artificial intelligence techniques are ready for commercial exploitation. Their introduction heralds the next quantum leap that will change the face of computing.
The Evolving Definition of Systemic Hypertension

d e d In the 21 years since the third report of the Joint National ommittee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatent of High Blood Pressure (JNC), the first to recommend oals for systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), goal BP evels recommended by JNC expert panels have been decreasng steadily.1 With the publication of the most recent JNC eport (JNC 7), the panel has for the first time suggested an mphasis on the disease process in patients with BP 140/90 m Hg cut-off point for the diagnosis of uncomplicated hyertension. The JNC 7 experts have coined the term “prehyertension” to denote these subjects, specifically those with BP f 120/80 to 139/89 mm Hg, who should be viewed as being t higher than average risk for cardiovascular events compared ith subjects at lower levels of BP (Table 1).2 The wellntentioned term “prehypertension” has alerted patients and hysicians to the possibility of increased risk for cardiovascuar events in this group, but the panel did not suggest practical teps beyond lifestyle modifications to mitigate this risk, a fact hat has led to confusion and even alarm regarding the clinical nd possible medicolegal implications of the term. It is beyond doubt that aggressive steps to lower BP are ecessary in patients with clearly defined hypertension (i.e., P 140/90 mm Hg or 130/80 mm Hg in those with iabetes mellitus or renal disease). It is also clear that ubstantial clinical benefits follow from BP control (i.e., educed risk for cardiovascular events and premature morality).3 Epidemiologic data suggest a direct relation beween a 2 mm Hg difference in systolic BP and reduced ardiovascular risk.4 What is not clear is when to start to ntervene aggressively in patients with lower BP levels (e.g., hose who now fall within the JNC 7 prehypertension cateory). For clinicians, the questions relate to ascertaining which prehypertensive” subjects require therapy more aggressive han lifestyle modification counseling and how aggressive that ntervention should be. In the absence of clinical data based n BP numbers alone, it remains unclear when pharmacoogic intervention is justified in this group of subjects. Into this uncertainty comes a new definition from the ypertension Writing Group5: “Hypertension is a progresive cardiovascular syndrome arising from complex and nterrelated etiologies. Early markers of the syndrome are ften present before BP elevation is observed; therefore, ypertension cannot be classified solely by discrete BP hresholds. Progression is strongly associated with funcional and structural cardiac and vascular abnormalities that amage the heart, kidneys, brain, vasculature and other rgans and lead to premature morbidity and death.” The
Improved Exercise Capacity and Reduced Systemic Inflammation After Adenoviral-Mediated SERCA-2a Gene Transfer

Background We hypothesized that sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca 2+ ATPase pump (SERCA-2a) gene delivery would have beneficial effects upon exercise capacity and markers of inflammation in the setting of heart failure. Materials and methods A pressure-overload model of experimental heart failure was used in rats. Following a decrease in fractional shortening of ≥25%, animals underwent intracoronary adenoviral-mediated gene transfection using SERCA-2a. Heart failure animals were randomized to receive the SERCA-2a gene, the β galactosidase (control) gene, or followed without any further intervention. Exercise and hemodynamic testing were performed, and myocardial and systemic markers of inflammation were assayed after 7 and 21 d. Results Animals receiving Ad.SERCA-2a showed an increase in exercise tolerance (499.0 ± 14.9 versus 312.8 ± 10.5 s, P versus 0.52 ± 0.11 pg/mL, P = 0.001). Myocardial levels of the proapoptotic protein bax were reduced in Ad.SERCA-2a -treated animals compared with those receiving Ad.Gal at day 7 (protein level/actin: 0.24 ± 0.05 versus 0.33 ± 0.04, P = 0.04) and day 21 (protein level/actin: 0.61 ± 0.04 versus 0.69 ± 0.01, P = 0.001). Conclusions Genetic modulation of heart failure using the SERCA-2a gene was associated with improvement in cardiac function and exercise capacity as well as improvements in heart-failure associated inflammatory markers.
Radical SAM-dependent Carbon Insertion Into the Nitrogenase M-cluster

The active site of nitrogenase, the M-cluster, is a metal-sulfur cluster containing a carbide at its core. Using radiolabeling experiments, we show that this carbide originates from the methyl group of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) and that it is inserted into the M-cluster by the assembly protein NifB. Our SAM cleavage and deuterium substitution analyses suggest a similarity between the mechanism of carbon insertion by NifB and the proposed mechanism of RNA methylation by the radical SAM enzymes RlmN and Cfr, which involves methyl transfer from one SAM equivalent, followed by hydrogen atom abstraction from the methyl group by a 5′-deoxyadenosyl radical generated from a second SAM equivalent. This work is an initial step toward unraveling the importance of the interstitial carbide and providing insights into the nitrogenase mechanism.
A study of the effect of slow-reacting substances of anaphylaxis on the rhesus monkey airway

Abstract Slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) generated from rat peritoneal mast cells was aerosolized to the airways of a group of rhesus monkeys with established airway responses to ascaris antigen. A selective effect of SRS-A on pulmonary resistance and a lesser but significant effect on compliance was observed which differed from antigen, histamine, carbocholine, or prostaglandin (PG) F 2α responses. The airway recovery from the PR change is slower than that from histamine and simulated PGF 2α and some antigen experiments. The cutaneous reactions in rhesus monkeys due to SRS-A could be blocked in a dose response pattern by FPL55712 which did not affect histamine responses in rhesus skin.
Spectroscopic information on ground-state Ar2, Kr2, and Xe2 from interatomic potentials

Abstract Calculations of vibrational and rotational level spacings of homonuclear inert gas diatomic molecules by numerical integration of the radial Schrodinger equation are presented. The potentials which were used for the ground states of Ar2, Kr2, and Xe2 were obtained from accurate fits to the molecular beam scattering data. From the calculated Δ G v+ 1 2 ' s and Bv's, the following spectroscopic constants (in cm−1) were fitted: for Ar2 ωe = 31.92, ωexe = 3.31, ωeye = 0.11, Be = 0.060, αe = 0.004; for Kr 2 ω e ⋍ 23.99 , ω e x e ⋍ 1.30 , ω e y e ⋍ 0.021 , B e ⋍ 0.024 , α e ⋍ 0.001 ; for Xe 2 ω e ⋍ 21.26 , ω e x e ⋍ 0.75 , ω e y e ⋍ 0.008 , B e ⋍ 0.013 , α e ⋍ 0.0004 .
Influencing support for caregivers.

(2008). INFLUENCING SUPPORT FOR CAREGIVERS. Journal of Social Work Education: Vol. 44, No. sup3, pp. 97-103.
Determination of carbon isotope ratios in amino acids, proteins, and oligosaccharides by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry.

Carbon isotope ratios (12C/13C) are measured for aqueous solutions of tryptophan, myoglobin, and β-cyclodextrin using C+ ions from an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and a prototype twin quadrupole mass spectrometer (MS). 13C/12C ratios can be determined with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of ∼1%. This precision is close to the limiting value predicted by counting statistics (1.16%). Spectral interference on 13C+, presumably from 12C1H+, comes from the incomplete dissociation of myoglobin and/or β-cyclodextrin, but not tryptophan. Decreasing the aerosol gas flow rate slightly from that which yields maximum signal eliminates this 12C1H+ interference. The count rate of the minor isotope (13C+) can be artificially enhanced by increasing the voltage of the 13C+ detector, and/or by shifting the ion beam splitter offset from the central axis. Instrumental modifications to the MS that improve the sensitivity are also described.
Assertion training therapy in psychiatric milieus

The current investigation involved an attempt to develop a clinical procedure to decrease anxiety and increase responsiveness (assertion) of psychiatric inpatients of both sexes in mixed diagnostic categories and to evaluate the effectiveness of the procedure. Using a Solomon Four-Group Design, patients, matched on age, sex, and diagnosis, were assigned to one of the following conditions: (1) pretest, treatment, posttest; (2) pretest, no treatment, posttest; (3) treatment, posttest; or (4) no treatment, posttest. The Gambrill-Richey Assertive Inventory was used to assess patient Degree of Discomfort and Response Probability with and without assertion training therapy. Results indicated that (1) patients receiving assertion training therapy were less anxious and more responsive after treatment than before, (2) patients receiving assertion training therapy were less anxious and more responsive than were matched control subjects, (3) control subjects who received no assertion training therapy and who were pretested showed moderate significant gains on the posttest measure, (4) patients reported a greater reduction of anxiety than they did an increase in responsiveness, and (5) pretesting did not significantly influence posttest scores.
Pooling analysis of scanning probe microscopy images

Abstract The ability to characterize the roughness of a surface in a parsimonious, unambiguous manner is an unrealized goal. There are many approaches to describing surface roughness, each with strengths and weaknesses. An a-priori application of any single method will inevitably lead to errors. We present here a new metric for surface roughness. It can be related to a fractal dimension and is appealing because the interpretation is highly physical. The method, pooling analysis, entails calculating the distribution of surface areas and volumes of fluid that would be entrained on a surface, if the fluid level were first raised above the height of any portion of the surface and then lowered to the average height of the surface. By considering the surface and its inverse, an intuitive understanding of the surface morphology is obtained.
Uniform Boundedness and Convergence of Solutions to Cross-Diffusion Systems

Abstract Uniform boundedness and convergence of global solutions are proved for cross-diffusion systems in population dynamics. Gagliardo–Nirenberg type inequalities are used in the estimates of solutions in order to establish W 2 1 -bounds uniform in time. In each step of estimates the contribution of the diffusion coefficients are emphasized, and it is concluded that the uniform bound remains independent of the growth of the diffusion coefficient in the system. Hence convergence of solutions are established for systems with large diffusion coefficients.
Accurate three-dimensional quantum scattering calculations for F + H2 → HF + H with total angular momentum J = 1

Abstract Accurate 3D coupled channel calculations with total angular momentum J=1 are presented for the reaction F+H2→HF+H for the T5a potential of Truhlar and coworkers. Reaction probabilities for relative scattering energies up to 0.71 eV are reported. The APH hyperspherical formulation is used, and the adiabatic basis functions are generated using the discrete variable representation (DVR). The J=1 reaction probabilities into final vibrational channels show less structure than the J=0 results reported elsewhere.
TRACER: an 'eye-opener' to the patient experience across the transition of care in an internal medicine resident program.

Background : A safe patient transition requires a complex set of physician skills within the interprofessional practice. Objective : To evaluate a rotation which applies self-reflection and workplace learning in a TRAnsition of CarE Rotation (TRACER) for internal medicine (IM) residents. TRACER is a 2-week required IM resident rotation where trainees join a ward team as a quality officer and follow patients into postacute care. Methods : In 2010, residents participated in semistructured, one-on-one interviews as part of ongoing program evaluation. They were asked what they had learned on TRACER, the year prior, and how they used those skills in their practice. Using transcripts, the authors reviewed and coded each transcript to develop themes. Results : Five themes emerged from a qualitative, grounded theory analysis: seeing things from the other side, the ‘ah ha’ moment of fragmented care, team collaboration including understanding nursing scope of practice in different settings, patient understanding, and passing the learning on. TRACER gives residents a moment to breathe and open their eyes to the interprofessional practice setting and the patient’s experience of care in transition. Conclusions : Residents learn about transitions of care through self-reflection. This learning is sustained over time and is valued enough to teach to their junior colleagues. Keywords: transition of care; interprofessional practice; education; reflection; grounded theory; professional identity (Published: 1 April 2015) Citation: Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives 2015, 5 : 26230 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/jchimp.v5.26230
Psychodiagnostic Testing in a Therapeutic Community for Drug Abusers

Summary.-Drug abusers who are currently entering therapeutic communities for treatment show a wider range of psychopathology than the "hardcore" heroin addicts of previous generations. Many of the rigorous treatment methods which are employed in therapeutic communities, e.g., intensive encounter and confrontational techniques, were originally developed to treat the sociopathic personality. These procedures may be inappropriate and psychologically harmful to many drug abusers who enter treatment, particularly those who have a basically schizoidal personality makeup with features of behavioral withdrawal, alienation, weak ego structure and poor object relations. Sophisticated psychodiagnostic testing in the therapeutic community can be an effective tool in individualizing treatment planning, evaluating in-treatment progress and assessing psychocherapeutic outcome. The residential therapeutic community has become one of the major treatment modalities for drug abusers. Recent research has demonstrated that young contemporary drug abusers who enter treatment evince a wider range of psychopathology and drug use patterns than the traditional "hard-core" heroin addicts of past generations (Burke & Eichberg, 1972; Monroe, Ross, 8: Berzins, 1971; Patalano, 1975; Zuckerman, Sola, Masterson, & Angelone, 1975 ) . This greater diversity in the personality makeups and psychological conflicts of young drug abusers points to the necessity for employing more sophisticated clinical assessment techniques and treatment approaches in the therapeutic community. Psychodiagnostic testing can be a most valuable tool in (1) evaluating the personality dynamics and cognitive functioning of the therapeutic community resident, (2) determining the resident's amenability to treatment in this milieu therapy modality, (3) setting up an effeccive individualized treatment plan, and (4) assessing in-treatment progress and therapeutic outcome. The purpose of this paper is to describe some clinical observations from the author's experience with diagnostic psychological testing in a therapeutic community for drug abusers. Projective techniques, especially the Rorschach and the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), can be particularly effeccive in evaluating the personalities of young drug abusers who enter treatment. Rapaport (1967b) has stated that "the theory of diagnostic personaliry tests deals with the rationale of how, by which processes, the ongoing principles of the personality and their psyho
Hemodynamic Changes Induced by Pneumoperitoneum and Measured With ECOM

Laparoscopic surgery presents unique hemodynamic challenges for the anesthetic management of patients. Hemodynamic changes induced by pneumoperitoneum were measured using a new noninvasive device, the Endotracheal Cardiac Output Monitor (ECOM) (ConMed Corp, Utica, NY). This monitor provides measurements—including cardiac output (CO), systemic vascular resistance (SVR), and stroke volume variation (SVV)—that were previously unavailable noninvasively. A better understanding of the applicability and reliability of this new technology in the clinical setting is important for patient safety. CONCLUSIONS
Transition zone volume and transition zone ratio: predictor of uroflow response to finasteride therapy in benign prostatic hyperplasia patients

Objectives. The aim of this study was to: (1) determine effects of finasteride on transition zone (TZ) volume, TZ ratio (TZ volume/total prostate volume), and total prostate volume; (2) analyze differences in TZ and total volume reduction among patients who improve peak urinary flow rates following finasteride therapy with those who do not; (3) investigate which parameters correlate with improvement in peak urinary flow rate and urinary symptom score; and (4) establish if there is any predictive value of these parameters for response to therapy. Methods. Twenty-three patients with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were treated with finasteride (5 mg/d) for 12 months and underwent transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) evaluation of total and TZ volume of prostate and measurement of peak flow rate and modified Boyarsky symptom score at baseline and at 12 months. Statistical analysis was done by unpaired t, Mann-Whitney, and Spearman rank correlation tests among responders (more than 3 cc/s improvement in peak flow rate) and nonresponders (less than 3 cc/s improvement in peak flow rate) to therapy. Results. (1) Responders had substantial reduction in TZ volume (44.8% versus 16.05%; P < 0.03) and TZ ratio (25% versus 5% increase, P < 0.02) compared with non-responders. (2) There was a significant correlation between reduction in TZ volume (r = 0.50; P < 0.03) and TZ ratio (r = 0.60; P < 0.006) with improvement in peak flow rates. No similar correlation was seen with total prostate volume changes. (3) Pretreatment TZ ratio helped in predicting peak flow improvement following finasteride therapy (r = 0.52; P < 0.01) and there was a 2.5-fold increased chance of improvement if baseline TZ ratio was more than 0.51. The modified Boyarsky symptom score decreased by 3.1 (mean), but there was no correlation with changes in peak urinary flow rate, total prostate volume, TZ volume, and TZ ratio. TZ ratio did not have significant predictive value for improvement in symptom score. Conclusions. This study provides data that simple measurable parameters are available which may be used prior to therapy to predict uroflow response to finasteride and similar agents.