cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Slow Death: One Survivor's Experience

The author, a clinical social worker, describes her own experience in confronting her husband's lingering death. It is an effort to explore one survivor's way of working through the process and offer a few observations of possible value to others. This account includes the responses of the writer's adolescent son as well as herself over a five year period.
Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid from Asthmatic Subjects Is Mitogenic for Human Airway Smooth Muscle

Airway smooth muscle proliferation may contribute to the airway wall remodeling seen in asthma. In this study we tested for the presence of airway smooth muscle mitogenic activity in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid obtained from 12 atopic asthmatics before and serially after segmental allergen challenge, and from four normal subjects who did not undergo allergen challenge. Mitogenic effect was assessed by coincubating BAL fluid with human airway smooth muscle cells, and measuring its effect on 3[H]thymidine incorporation and cell number. Induction of ERK phosphorylation and cyclin D1 protein abundance were also assessed. Compared with serum-free medium alone, BAL fluid obtained from normal subjects increased thymidine incorporation, cell number, ERK phosphorylation, and cyclin D1 abundance. BAL fluid from asthmatic subjects prior to allergen challenge induced even greater increases in all measures, except for cell number, which was similar to that observed with normal subjects' BAL fluid. Incubation wi...
Recursive stimulus reconstruction algorithms for real-time implementation in neural ensembles

Abstract A variety of techniques have been developed for the reconstruction of stimuli from the responses of sensory neurons, providing a tremendous amount of insight into neural function. However, as the promise of engineered neural interfaces grows, there is an increasing need for real-time algorithms designed specifically for prediction and control in neural systems. Recursive algorithms provide a significantly more efficient means for reconstructing sensory stimuli by utilizing past estimates to minimize the computational expense. Furthermore, recursive algorithms are also robust in the reconstruction of sensory stimuli from neurons with time-varying dynamics, recently observed in a number of sensory systems.
A dynamic picture of protein behavior in cells.

Protein dynamics in livings cells can now be studied by fully automated, high-throughput fluorescence correlation spectroscopy.
Synthesis and X-ray Crystal Structure of a Chlorobis(trimethylsiloxy)zirconium Silyl Derivative, (Me3SiO)2Zr(SiPh2But)Cl·2THF

The chlorobis(trimethylsiloxy)zirconium silyl derivative (Me3SiO)2Zr(SiPh2But)Cl·2THF (2) and its precursor (Me3SiO)2ZrCl2·2THF (1) have been synthesized and characterized by X-ray crystallography. The Zr−Si bond distance of 2.848(3) A in 2 is, to our knowledge, the longest reported Zr−Si bond to date.
Region-based BGP announcement filtering for improved BGP security

BGP prefix hijacking is a serious security threat on the Internet. In this paper we propose a region-based BGP announcement filtering scheme (RBF) to improve the BGP security. In contrast to existing solutions that indifferently prevent or detect prefix hijacking attacks, RBF enables differentiated AS and prefix filtering treatment and blends prefix hijacking prevention with deterrence. RBF is a light-weight BGP security scheme that provides strong incremental deployment incentive and better prefix hijacking deterrence. Experimental studies based on real Internet numbers allocation information and BGP traces show that RBF is a feasible and effective scheme in improving BGP security. For example, on the days without known BGP prefix hijacking attacks, only a small number of BGP announcements will be flagged as attacks. Importantly, by applying RBF to known BGP prefix hijacking attacks, we show that RBF can detect and filter both large-scale and small-scale BGP prefix hijacking attacks even if only a single prefix is hijacked.
A method for resolving ties in asymptotic relative efficiency

Abstract This article presents a method for determining which of two tests may offer an advantage in power when their asymptotic relative efficiencies (ARE) are the same. The method maintains some of the desirable properties of ARE, such as ease of calculation and singular result based upon asymptotic properties of the tests. However, using higher-order Taylor expansions of the test statistics’ means, the procedure offers additional insight into the finite sample size behavior of the tests. Two examples demonstrate the method.
Analysis of the proteins and cis-acting elements regulating the stress-induced phage shock protein operon

The phage shock protein operon (pspABCE) of Escherichia coli is strongly induced by adverse environmental conditions. Expression is controlled principally at the transcriptional level, and transcription is directed by the sigma factor sigma 54. PspB and PspC are required for high-level psp expression during osmotic shock, ethanol treatment and f1 infection, but heat-induced expression is independent of these proteins. We report here that the promoter region contains an upstream activation sequence (UAS) that is required for psp induction and has the enhancer-like ability to activate at a distance. A DNA-binding activity is detected in crude protein extracts that is dependent on the UAS and induced by heat shock. We further show that integration host factor (IHF) binds in vitro to a site between the UAS and sigma 54 recognition sequence. In bacteria lacking IHF, psp expression is substantially reduced in response to high temperature and ethanol. During osmotic shock in contrast, psp expression is only weakly stimulated by IHF, and IHF mutants can strongly induce the operon. The dependence of psp expression on IHF varies with the inducing condition, but does not correlate with dependence on PspB and PspC, indicating distinct, agent-specific activation mechanisms.
NMR spectra of exchangeable protons of pyridoxal phosphate-dependent enzymes.

We have recorded 1H NMR spectra in H2O for exchangeable protons of four pyridoxal phosphate-dependent enzymes: D-serine dehydratase, aspartate aminotransferase, tryptophan: indole-lyase and glutamate decarboxylase. The molecular masses range from 48 – 250 kDa. In every case there are downfield peaks which are lost when the apoenzyme is formed. In most cases some peaks shift in response to interactions with substrates and inhibitors and with changes in pH. We associate one downfield resonance with the proton on the ring nitrogen of the coenzyme and others with imidazole groups that interact with coenzyme or substrates. The chemical shift for the coenzyme-bound proton differs for free enzyme, substrate Schiff base or quinonoid forms.
A Simple Light Trap for Collecting Small Insects

ABSTRACT: A simple light trap for collecting small insects, especially Diptera, is described. Some extraordinary specimens collected by this type of trap are noted.
Fibrils as extracellular appendages of bacteria: their role in contact-mediated cell-cell interactions in Myxococcus xanthus.

Social behavior in the myxobacterium Myxococcus xanthus involves epicellular, peritrichous appendages called fibrils. These are polysaccharide organelles containing a set of tightly adhering proteins. It is proposed that cell-cell contact is perceived by the fibrils and is mediated by the action of a fibrillar ADP-ribosyl transferase. Fibrils or fibril-like organelles have also been found on a variety of other gram-negative bacteria and at least one archaeon, and may mediate cell-cell contact between the bacteria themselves or between the bacteria and their eukaryotic host cells. BioEssays 21:590–595, 1999. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Merging sorted runs using large main memory

External sorting is usually accomplished by first creating sorted runs, then merging the runs. In the merge phase, writing and calculating can be overlapped by reading if two input buffers are used for each sorted run. If the memory is very large, the input buffers will be large and using two input buffers per sorted run will be more efficient than using only one input buffer per run and risking reduced overlap of reading and writing. In many cases, merging time can be cut in half. We derive a formula for estimating the total time for merging for a given memory size, file size, number of merging passes and for a given disk drive. We present an extreme example where in spite of having two buffers per run, significant non-overlap occurs. However, in realistic problems, we show that making one merge pass with two input buffers per run is near optimal. This contradicts earlier results on merging which do not take large memory into account.
Chromium and hypertension

Syndrome X, composed of cardiac risk factors such as hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemias, is attributed, at least in part, to insulin resistance often accompanied by hyperinsulinemia. Although chromium (Cr) supplementation augments loss of fat mass and corrects dyslipidemias, its effects on elevated blood pressure (BP) had not been previously determined. Accordingly, we examined hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive rats on diets containing 18% or 52% of calories from sucrose to initiate insulin resistance and assessed the ability of chromium to overcome sucrose-induced elevations of systolic BP (SBP) acutely and chronically. In acute studies, chromium consistently and completely overcame sugar-induced SBP elevations in SHR (10–20 mm Hg), but did not overcome genetic hypertension. In chronic studies on normotensive F344/BN rats, a control group received a diet with 18% of calories from sucrose and no soluble fiber, whereas a test group received the same diet with Cr added (5 ppm) and two antioxidants: zinc (18 ppm) and a grape seed extract high in flavonoids (250 ppm). Initial SBP of both groups was 122 mm Hg. Over the first 7 months, the SBP of the control animals steadily increased to 140 mm Hg, whereas the SBP of SHR receiving Cr and other antioxidants initially decreased over the first several months to as low as 110–114 mm Hg. It eventually reached 120 mm Hg at the end of 7 months, still significantly lower than control (P < 0.000). We conclude that in a standard rat model for insulin resistance, Cr can acutely and chronically overcome the sucrose-induced elevation of SBP. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 12:125–130, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A note on serological interpretations1

This paper deals with the interpretation of binary serological data. It attempts to render exact and answer two questions: 1) What are all the serological interpretations of a given set of data? 2) How can different interpretations be distinguished serologically? It is hoped that the formal analysis of serology presented herein will prove to be helpful to those working with complex immunological systems.
G proteins in Aplysia: biochemical characterization and regional and subcellular distribution.

Abstract We studied G proteins and regulation of adenylate cyclase in nervous tissue and muscle Aplysia using bacterial toxin-catalyzed ADP-ribosylation. We identified G 5α , a M r 45,000 cholera toxin substrate, G 0α , a M r 40,000 pertussis toxin substrate, and G β (M r 37,000) by Western blot analysis with antisera specific for bovine brain G protein subunits. Partial proteolysis suggests that the neuronal pertussis toxin substrates are heterogenous. The concentration of these substrates in membranes from Aplysia ganglia is similar to that of rat, squid and Helix ; in Aplysia nervous tissue, G protein subunits are most enriched in synaptosomes and neuropil. The stimulation of adenylate cyclase by serotonin (5-HT), low concentrations of GTP-γ-S, and cholera toxin, and the inhibition by high concentrations of GTP-γ-S that is blocked by pertussis toxin indicate that both a G s and a G i protein regulate that Aplysia enzyme. These results support the idea that G proteins in Aplysia are important in regulating synaptic function.
Rate of Chick Feathering and Growing Chick Weight in Rhode Island Reds

Abstract SEVERAL workers have produced some evidence that rapid chick feathering may be associated with rapid early growth in body weight. Warren and Payne (1945) studied the relation of the sex-linked gene to body weight in 181 New Hampshire chicks. They concluded that there was some evidence that chicks carrying the sex-linked gene for rapid feathering would be heavier in weight at twelve weeks than chicks lacking the gene. Glazener and Jull (1946) examined the relation between the number of secondary feathers at hatching and discovered that those individuals with six or more secondaries were likely to be heavier at ten weeks than those with fewer secondaries, also that birds with superior feathering at 8 weeks averaged heavier at 10 weeks. Most other work was summarized by Hays and Sanborn (1942) in a study on breeding Rhode Island Reds for rapid feathering. In the spring of 1950 it seemed desirable, because . . .
Irradiation damage of nickel in a high-voltage electron microscope

Abstract Electron irradiation damage in high-purity annealed and 20% deformed nickel has been studied using a high-voltage electron microscope (HVEM) operating at 650 kV. The effects of temperature of irradiation, electron dose and cold work on point-defect clustering in general and void formation in particular have been investigated. Both faulted and unfaulted dislocation loops were observed during irradiation at 240 to 500°C; multilayer dislocation loops were observed at the higher temperatures. Voids exhibited a cubic shape at low dose with a nearly homogeneous distribution in annealed and an inhomogenous distribution in 20% deformed nickel. The average void size for annealed nickel was larger than that for 20% deformed nickel and the void growth rate was found to be higher for annealed nickel. In annealed nickel, the void concentration increased up to ≈14 dpa and then decreased, while in 20% deformed nickel it increased up to ≈35 dpa. Swelling was considerably reduced by cold work compared to annealed nickel. These observations are discussed with emphasis on the role of dislocation density in the nucleation and growth of voids and swelling.
The Rationale for Incentives for Living Donors: An International Perspective?

The organ shortage has become a crisis for transplant candidates with end-stage renal disease, and a significant number of them either die while waiting or become too sick to transplant. A consequence, worldwide, has been the development of unregulated markets for donation; these markets have been associated with poor outcomes for both donors and recipients. In contrast, a regulated system of incentives might increase donation rates while also providing a benefit to donors. Criteria for an acceptable system have been proposed: protection of the donor and recipient, regulation, transparency, and oversight. Many of the concerns about the implications and impact of such a system could be answered with a clinical trial in a country (or countries) that can meet the described standards. Yet the debate about the advisability of developing such a system continues, even as the waiting lists grow and candidates die while waiting.
The Status of the Photochemistry and Photophysics of Tritium‐From‐Deuterium Isotope Separation by Infrared Laser Multiple‐Photon Dissociation of Chloroform

Several experiments that examine the multiple-photon absorption and dissociation and the post-photolysis chemistry of tritium-from-deuterium isotope separation by 12 μ laser photolysis of chloroform are described. Results of recent experimental measurements of T/D selectivity in absorption and dissociation are reviewed. The fluence dependence of CTCl3 IR photolysis is obtained from experiment and an energy-averaged master equation model. Preliminary measurements of two-frequency dissociation of CTCl3 are presented. The pathways of the post-photolysis chemistry are deduced from product formation in the 11 μ dissociation of neat CDCl3, and of the carbon-isotope labelled reactants 12CDCl3/13CHCl3.
Tropospheric moisture and monsoonal rainfall over the southwestern United States

[1] This study investigates the role of increased atmospheric humidity in occurrences of wet days in the southwestern United States during the monsoon seasons of 1996–2002, using spatiotemporal analyses of ground-measured precipitation, spatial analyses of surface and 700-hPa humidity, and air-parcel trajectory analyses. A precipitation regionalization indicates that the Gila River basin in southern Arizona/southwest New Mexico should be divided into a western region and an eastern region. A rainfall peak occurred in late August/early September for the western region; however, similar to that of the core monsoon zone in northwestern Mexico, the eastern region of the basin had a rainfall peak in late July/early August. Wet days in the western (eastern) region were associated with a large (moderate) peak in dew point temperature in the southwestern (south central) portion of the basin. The middle troposphere was more humid than normal on both sets of days, with the anomalies for western region wet days being larger and located more over the Gila River basin than anomalies for the eastern region wet days. The Sierra Madre Occidental was the most likely source of middle troposphere moisture for both regions; however, the Gulf of Mexico may have been a significant contributor to rainfall in parts of the eastern region. The Gulf of California probably was the dominant source of low-level moisture for western region wet days, with gulf surges likely causing the late August/early September peak.
Adsorption characteristics of polyacetic amino acids onto hydrous γ-Al2O3

Abstract The adsorption characteristics of various polyacetic amino acids onto aluminum oxide (γ-Al 2 O 3 ) were examined. Adsorption increased markedly with increasing proton concentration due to the formation of surface complexes between the polyanions and the surface hydroxo groups, i.e., Al OH 2 + . Electrokinetic data indicated a decrease in the pH zpc of γ-Al 2 O 3 with increasing concentrations of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) in solution, and the magnitude of the zeta potential was significantly reduced in proportion to the cumulative charge of anions adsorbed. This implied a definite specific chemical surface interaction in excess of electrostatic attraction. A quantitative model was formulated which considered the pH-dependent speciation of the oxide surface, speciation of the polyacetic amino acids, and electrostatic interactions based on the zeta potential measurements. This model proved valid over a wide range of pH (3–10) and several orders of magnitude for EDTA concentrations (10 −6 to 10 −3 M ). Surface binding energies ranged from 4.1 to 9.1 kcal/mole, supporting the hypothesis that hydrogen bond formation was responsible for the adsorption of these organic species.
Automated Langmuir Probe Diagnostics in an Inertial Electrostatic Confinement Device

Summary form only given. Inertial electrostatic confinement (IEC) devices could potentially be used as neutron generators for a number of applications including neutron activation analysis, generation of medical isotopes, as a driver for a sub-critical fission assembly, etc. We present the system and the results of automated single and double Langmuir probe measurements on the Missouri University Spherical Ion Confinement Chamber (MUSICC).
A note on dichotomous feature extraction (Corresp.)

An error is corrected in an expression, for misclassification probability with dichotomous (binary) random variables, and the perils of dichotomous feature extraction are exhibited.
Computing the time evolution of the apparent viscoelastic/viscoplastic Poisson’s ratio of hydrating cement paste

Abstract A computational model has been developed that combines finite element methods with microstructure development simulations to quantitatively predict the viscoelastic/viscoplastic relaxation of cement paste due to intrinsic calcium silicate hydrate viscoelasticity/viscoplasticity and cement grain dissolution associated with the hydration process. The viscoelastic/viscoplastic Poisson’s ratio (PR) of cement paste can then be predicted using this model by conducting virtual experiments. The simulation results suggest that time-dependent dissolution of cement grains generally causes a relaxation resulting in a decrease of the viscoelastic/viscoplastic PR. However, intrinsic calcium silicate hydrate creep deformation causes either time-dependent increases or decreases in the viscoelastic/viscoplastic PR, depending on the mechanical properties of the calcium silicate hydrate and the water to cement mass ratio. The influence from cement grain dissolution on the overall evolution of Poisson’s ratio decreases with age, while the influence of intrinsic calcium silicate hydrate relaxation increases with age.
The quantitative and qualitative analysis of the water soluble fraction of jet fuels

Abstract This paper describes two methods of analyzing the water soluble fraction (WSF) of hydrocarbon fuels. This fraction is the most ubiquitous form of fuels spilled or leaked to the aquatic environment and bioassays have emphasized exposure of the WSF to test species. One method of analysis involves organic solvent extraction, and the other method utilizes purge-and-trap of volatile components. The suitability of these methods is evaluated for the quantitative and qualitative analysis of jet fuels used in commercial and military aircraft.
Implementation of an electronic teaching file using web technology.

The implementation of an electronic teaching file using web technology is discussed in this article. A web client server model is used for a standard web browser capable of displaying Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG) compression images. Like other web-based teaching files, this teaching file in a similar way uses a database containing information. This database section of the teaching file allows flexible database querying and viewing of pages generated by hypertext markup language (HTML). Because the browser client is so flexible, images types such as video and 3D representations with virtual reality markup language (VRML) can be displayed.
17O NMR spectroscopy: geometric effects on intramolecular hydrogen bonding in rigid carbonyl systems

Abstract 17 O NMR data for the carbonyl groups of a series of intramolecular hydrogen-bonded fluorenones and anthraquinones showed dependency on hydrogen bond angle and distance as well as relative acidity of NH donors.
The physics of aerobreakup. III. Viscoelastic liquids

We extend the work of Theofanous and Li [Phys. Fluids 20, 052103 (2008)10.1063/1.2907989] on aerobreakup physics of water-like, low viscosity liquid drops, and of Theofanous et al. [Phys. Fluids 24, 022104 (2012)10.1063/1.3680867] for Newtonian liquids of any viscosity, to polymer-thickened liquids over wide ranges of viscoelasticity. The scope includes the full range of aerodynamics from near incompressible to supersonic flows and visualizations are recorded with μs/μm resolutions. The key physics of Rayleigh-Taylor piercing (RTP, first criticality) and of Shear-Induced Entrainment (SIE, second criticality) are verified and quantified on the same scaling approach as in our previous work, but with modifications due to the shear-thinning and elastic nature of these liquids. The same holds for the onset of surface waves by Kelvin-Helmholtz instability, which is a key attribute of the second criticality. However, in the present case, even at conditions well-past the first criticality, there is no breakup (pa...
An Investigation of Consumer Product Warranties as Market Signals of Product Reliability

Several explanations of the purpose for consumer product warranties can be found in the marketing liteature. However, comparatively little research has been done to develop and test a theory of the consumer product warranty. Recently the Market Signal Theory which posits that warranties serve as signals of product reliability, has emerged in the economic, legal, and marketing literature. In this article, a test of the Market Signal Theory is conducted usign pre- and post-Magnuson-Moss Act warranties. Marketing and public policy implications of the Market Signal Theory and directions for future research are also discussed.
Hemodynamic progression of aortic stenosis in adults assessed by doppler echocardiography

Doppler echocardiography was used to follow the hemodynamic severity of aortic stenosis. First, the reproducibility of repeat recordings (mean interval 28 +/- 36 days) of aortic jet velocity, made by two independent observers, was tested in 38 adults with aortic stenosis and unchanged clinical status. The two recordings of maximal velocity correlated well (r = 0.96, y = 0.88x + 0.46m/s, SEE = 0.21 m/s) with a mean coefficient of variation of 3.2%. Repeat recording of left ventricular outflow tract velocity by two independent observers in 10 other patients with aortic stenosis also correlated well (r = 0.94, y = 1.06x + 0.0 m/s, SEE = 0.06 m/s) with a mean coefficient of variation of 4.6%. Next, Doppler echocardiography was used to study 42 patients with aortic stenosis (mean age 66 years) over a follow-up interval of 6 to 43 months (mean 20). Maximal aortic jet velocity increased by 0.36 m/s per year (range -0.3 to +1.0 m/s per year). Mean transaortic pressure gradient changed by -7 to +23 (mean 8) mm Hg/year. Aortic valve area by the continuity equation (n = 25) decreased by 0 to 0.5 cm2/year (mean decrease 0.1 cm2/year). Some patients had a worsening of stenosis (decrease in valve area) even though they had no change or a decrease in pressure gradient, because of concurrent decreases in transaortic volume flow. Twenty-one patients (50%) developed new or progressive symptoms of aortic stenosis necessitating valve replacement.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Immunization pockets of need: science and practice.

Abstract Despite high overall immunization coverage levels among U.S. preschool children, areas of underimmunization, called pockets of need, remain. These areas, which pose both a personal health and a public health risk, are typically poor, crowded, urban areas in which barriers to immunization are difficult to overcome and health care resources are limited. The purpose of this report is to review barriers to immunization of preschool children living in pockets of need and to discuss current issues in the identification of and implementation of interventions within these areas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention administers a federal grants program that funds state and metropolitan immunization programs. This program promotes a three-pronged approach for addressing pockets of need: (1) identification of target areas, (2) selection and implementation of programmatic strategies to improve immunization coverage, and (3) evaluation of progress or impact. At each step, scientific evidence can guide programmatic efforts. While there is evidence that state and metropolitan immunization programs are currently making efforts to address pockets of need, much work remains to be done to improve immunization coverage levels in pockets of need. Public health agencies must take on a broadened role of accountability, new partnerships must be forged, and it may be necessary to strengthen the oversight authority of public health. These tasks will require a concentration and redirection of resources to support the development of an immunization delivery infrastructure capable of ensuring the timely delivery of immunizations to the most vulnerable of America’s children.
Technical note: Design and performance of a movable post-cathode magnetron sputtering system for making PBFA II accelerator ion sources☆

Abstract A post-cathode magnetron sputter deposition system is described for depositing one-, two- or three-layer coatings with uniform thickness and film properties on the inside of a cylindrical substrate. The system uses a unique movable post-cathode which allows the substrate to remain stationary during the deposition process. Film stress is controlled by cycling the sputtering pressure during the sputter deposition process.
Exploratory surgery for advanced carcinoma of the larynx : A relatively safe approach

Between the years 1970 and 1986, the author managed 132 patients with T3 glottic carcinoma. Over half of these patients were explored in an effort to safely perform subtotal laryngectomy. Twenty-seven of them were found to have extension of tumor that required immediate conversion to total laryngectomy. Five-year survival rates were essentially the same for all three groups: immediate total laryngectomy, subtotal laryngectomy, and total laryngectomy following attempted subtotal laryngectomy. I conclude that carefully selected patients with T3 glottic cancer may be candidates for subtotal laryngectomy after surgical exploration, since conversion to total laryngectomy yields local control rates as satisfactory as those of initial total laryngectomy. When subtotal laryngectomy is possible, local control of tumor and recurrence rates are as satisfactory as those of total laryngectomy.
Bacteriological Studies on High-Temperature Short-Time Pasteurization of Ice Cream Mix,

Summary In laboratory studies utilizing pure cultures of Micrococcus sp. (No. MS 102) and Microbacterium sp. (No. 342-S-1), the times required at temperatures of 175, 180, 185, and 190° F. to obtain pasteurization of ice cream mix equivalent to that effected at 155°F. for 30 minutes were investigated. Six mixes varying in composition to represent a range from milk-shake base to premium ice cream were used. Two experiments with each organism were conducted on each mix. The composition of the mix was found not to affect pasteurization requirements. "Recommended" pasteurization times at 175, 180, 185, and 190°F. were, respectively, for Micrococcus sp. (No. MS 102) 21.2, 11.8, 7.2 and 0.99 seconds, and for Microbacterium sp. (No. 342-S-1) 16.5, 11.4, 6.5, and 0.27 seconds. The present standard of 175°F. for 25 seconds thus appears to be more stringent than 155°F. for 30minutes. Preliminary plant studies with the Vaereator showed adequate pasteurization of Micrococcus sp. (No. MS 102) to occur at a first-chamber temperature of 191.5°F. Similar studies with the Stevac pasteurizer set for 25 seconds holding time, indicated that a temperature of 172.2°F. would give proper pasteurization.
Impact of a brief intervention on patient communication and barriers to pain management: Results from a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Objective This study examined the impact of a brief pain communication/education intervention on patient outcomes in breast cancer. We hypothesized that our intervention would improve patient communication and reduce misconceptions ("Barriers") concerning pain management, and that patients with lower Barriers, or who perceived their physician as being more facilitative and receptive, would report better outcomes. Methods Female breast cancer patients with persistent pain ( n =89) were randomly assigned to either a 30-min in-person pain education/communication intervention or control condition and followed for 12 weeks. Results Intervention group patients reported a significant decrease in pain Barriers but not in other outcomes. Overall, patients with lower barrier scores reported less distress and better emotional well-being. Patients who scored higher in active communication (e.g., asking questions, giving information) reported fewer Barriers and better pain relief. Individuals who perceived their physicians as being more receptive reported better pain management while those who perceived their physicians as being both more receptive and facilitative were more satisfied with their health care. Conclusion A brief education/communication intervention reduced patients' Barriers to pain management but did not impact other patient outcomes. Practical Implications Pain outcomes may be improved by addressing patients' pain misconceptions and emphasizing a receptive and responsive communication style.
Plasma adiponectin concentrations and correlates in African Americans in the Hypertension Genetic Epidemiology Network (HyperGEN) study

Adiponectin has demonstrated insulin-sensitizing, antiatherogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties, and may be an important risk factor for coronary heart disease and diabetes. Relatively few previous studies of plasma adiponectin have included sizable numbers of African Americans. The objective of the study was to investigate plasma concentrations of adiponectin and correlates of these concentrations in African Americans. This was a cross-sectional analysis that took place within the Hypertension Genetic Epidemiology Network. This study included 211 normotensive offspring (aged 22-37 years) of hypertensive siblings recruited by the Hypertension Genetic Epidemiology Network Birmingham, AL, field center. In addition to measuring plasma adiponectin, demographic and lifestyle data were collected, and anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory measurements were obtained. Mean plasma adiponectin concentration was 5.5+/-3.8 microg/mL. Adiponectin was 55% higher in women than in men: 6.5+/-4.4 vs 4.2+/-2.5 microg/mL, respectively (P<.0001). In a multivariable analysis, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration was positively associated and male sex and insulin concentration were negatively associated with plasma adiponectin concentration. Plasma adiponectin concentrations in these African Americans were lower than those reported in other racial/ethnic groups, including Japanese, whites, and Pima Indians. The directions of the associations of plasma adiponectin with other factors were in agreement with results in other racial/ethnic groups.
Bridging the Gap between the Student and the Library

(1992). Bridging the Gap between the Student and the Library. College Teaching: Vol. 40, No. 2, pp. 67-70.
Observations on Normal Grain Growth of Magnesia and Calcia

It is generally agreed that the rate of grain growth in metallic systems may be expressed by an equation that describes the square of the average diameter as being proportional to the time of annealing at constant temperature. The proportionality constant is exponentially dependent on temperature as normally expected in a rate expression according to the theory of reaction kinetics. The purpose of this study was to check the applicability of these equations to metallic oxide systems. Reagent-grade MgO and CaO prepared from reagent-grade CaCl2 obeyed the grain-growth expressions reasonably well. Strong temperature dependence of the growth rate of both materials was attributed to impurities. Activation energies of 110 and 60 kcal per mole were calculated for CaO and MgO, respectively. Both values are higher than would be anticipated for grain-boundary diffusion in high-purity materials. Although porosity varied considerably for various isotherms, no effect of porosity on grain growth was detected. The data, however, were considered to be insufficient to warrant strong conclusions concerning this variable.
The Relationship of Solar Abundance Measurements to the Electron Temperature in a Polar Coronal Hole

We discuss the behavior of the intensity of the Mg VI λ1191.64 spectral line relative to the intensity of the Ne VI λ1005.78 spectral line as a function of height above the limb in the solar north polar coronal hole. The intensities of Mg VI lines relative to Ne VI lines have been shown to be excellent indicators of element abundance variations due to the first ionization potential (FIP) effect. We find that the Mg VI/Ne VI intensity ratio increases with height above the limb by factors ranging from 1.7 to 4 over a height range extending from about 6'' above the limb to 28'' above the limb. We conclude that this intensity ratio increase is primarily due to an increase of electron temperature with height, rather than the result of an FIP effect, and therefore caution must be exercised in using any Mg VI/Ne VI line ratio as an abundance diagnostic above the limb in the polar holes. At 6'' above the limb, the Mg VI/Ne VI line ratio indicates that the solar Mg/Ne abundance ratio is probably within a factor of 2 of the photospheric abundance ratio. The spectra we use were recorded by the Solar Ultraviolet Measurements of Emitted Radiation spectrometer on the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory spacecraft.
Single-word intelligibility testing in aphasia: Alternate forms reliability, phonetic complexity and word frequency

Background: We recently constructed a single-word speech intelligibility test intended to quantify magnitude of speech sound impairment in individuals with aphasia. To minimise listener learning and strategising, the test included a large set of possible (alternate) test forms and was constructed with high and diverse phonologic similarity among candidate words. Although the corpus was limited in phonetic complexity to single syllables, and although criteria for minimal word frequency were applied, it is possible that more fine-grained differences in phonetic complexity and/or word frequency may introduce varying levels of difficulty across alternate test forms and that reliability, therefore, may be compromised.Aims: The dual purposes of this study were to evaluate alternate forms reliability for the new intelligibility test and to determine whether word frequency and/or phonetic complexity affected word identification scores.Methods & Procedures: All words in the 600-word test corpus were coded for over...
Prioritizing conservation effort through the use of biological soil crusts as ecosystem function indicators in an arid region

Conservation prioritization usually focuses on conservation of rare species or biodiversity, rather than ecological processes. This is partially due to a lack of informative indicators of ecosystem function. Biological soil crusts (BSCs) trap and retain soil and water resources in arid ecosystems and function as major carbon and nitrogen fixers; thus, they may be informative indicators of ecosystem function. We created spatial models of multiple indicators of the diversity and function of BSCs (species richness, evenness, functional diversity, functional redundancy, number of rare species, number of habitat specialists, nitrogen and carbon fixation indices, soil stabilization, and surface roughening) for the 800,000-ha Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (Utah, U.S.A.). We then combined the indicators into a single BSC function map and a single BSC biodiversity map (2 alternative types of conservation value) with an unweighted averaging procedure and a weighted procedure derived from validations performance. We also modeled potential degradation with data from a rangeland assessment survey. To determine which areas on the landscape were the highest conservation priorities, we overlaid the function- and diversity-based conservation-value layers on the potential degradation layer. Different methods for ascribing conservation-value and conservation-priority layers all yielded strikingly similar results (r= 0.89-0.99), which suggests that in this case biodiversity and function can be conserved simultaneously. We believe BSCs can be used as indicators of ecosystem function in concert with other indicators (such as plant-community properties) and that such information can be used to prioritize conservation effort in drylands.
The CTRx, a therapy machine and CT scanner

The idea for X-ray phototherapy (XPT) - the use of contrast media to enhance the X-ray dose absorbed by tumors - and the development of the CTRx to deliver it started with a visit to the author by Forrest Adams, a pediatric cardiologist, some two decades ago. He was concerned because of the very long X-ray exposures, frequently exceeding 30 minutes and sometimes over 60 minutes, that his patients, infants and young children, were receiving during angiography. Two recent developments make the prospects for XPT, delivered by a CTRx, bright. The first is the current development of table top monoenergetic X-ray sources based on the Compton scattering of laser photons from relativistic electron beams. This will allow matching the X-ray energy to the peak of the DEF vs photon energy curves. The other is the development of CM that are targeted to tumors.
A Finite Difference Delay Modeling Approach to the Discretization of the Time Domain Integral Equations of Electromagnetics

A new method for solving the time-domain integral equations of electromagnetic scattering from conductors is introduced. This method, called finite difference delay modeling, appears to be completely stable and accurate when applied to arbitrary structures. The temporal discretization used is based on finite differences. Specifically, based on a mapping from the Laplace domain to the z-transform domain, first- and second-order unconditionally stable methods are derived. Spatial convergence is achieved using the higher-order divergence-conforming vector bases of Graglia et al. Low frequency instability problems are avoided with the loop-tree decomposition approach. Numerical results will illustrate the accuracy and stability of the technique.
The crater defect in boar spermatozoa: A correlative study with transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and light microscopy

Nuclear vacuoles resembling the “crater defect” described in bull spermatozoa were observed in 14 boars. Both the incidence of the defect and semen quality were monitored with phase contrast microscopy over a three-month period. The percentages of cratered spermatozoa varied widely both among boars and in ejaculates from the same boar taken on different days. The presence of cratered spermatozoa at a level of 5% or more appeared to be associated with low semen quality. The defect was studied with scanning and transmission electron microscopy and was found to consist of nuclear invaginations, about 0.5 μm in diameter, containing some scanty amorphous electron-dense material. In boars showing a high incidence of spermatozoa with crater defects, abnormalities of the acrosome and perforatorium were common.
Water and Electrolyte Content of Human Ileostomy Fluid After D-Aldosterone Administration

Summary The effect of intravenous administration of 2 mg of d -aldosterone on the water, sodium, chloride, and potassium content of ileostomy fluid was studied in 4 subjects with long established ileostomies by a balance technique. The ileal effluent did not change significantly in respect to volume, wet weight, or sodium, potassium, or chloride output after aldosterone administration. Under the conditions of our experiments, we were unable to show an effect of d -aldosterone administration on the handling of water, sodium, chloride, and potassium by the small bowel.
Patients’ Recollections of Therapeutic Paralysis in the Intensive Care Unit

Background Neuromuscular blocking agents used for therapeutic purposes, such as facilitating mechanical ventilation and relieving life-threatening agitation, paralyze patients but leave them fully conscious. Aggressive sedation or analgesia is necessary to reduce awareness, relieve fear, produce comfort, decrease anxiety, induce unconsciousness, and minimize possible complications such as posttraumatic stress syndrome. Little information is available on the extent to which patients experience awareness during therapeutic paralysis. Objectives To determine and describe the remembered experiences of critical care patients who were given neuromuscular blocking agents and sedatives and/or analgesics to facilitate mechanical ventilation, improve hemodynamic stability, and improve oxygenation. Methods A phenomenological approach with in-depth interviews with 11 patients was used. Data were analyzed by using the constant comparative approach. Results A total of 4 themes and 3 subthemes were identified. The first theme was back and forth between reality and the unreal, between life and death; the subtheme was having weird dreams. The second theme was loss of control; the 2 subthemes were (1) fighting or being tied down and (2) being scared. The third theme was almost dying, and the fourth theme was feeling cared for. Conclusions Patients can remember having both negative and positive experiences during neuromuscular blockade. Steps to improve the experiences of patients receiving neuromuscular blockers include improving assessment parameters, developing and using sedation/analgesia guidelines, and investing in quality improvement programs to provide assessment of awareness during therapeutic paralysis and follow-up and referral as necessary. Ways to decrease the use of neuromuscular blockers would also be useful.
Cleavage anomalies in early human embryos and survival after prolonged culture in-vitro

This study examines the relationship between common morphological anomalies of cleaving embryos and their ability to form apparently normal blastocysts in vitro. The impact of cleavage rate, fragmentation, and multinucleation on compaction, cavitation, along with inner cell mass and trophectoderm formation has been assessed. The study population consisted of 102 patients who elected or were selected to have a day 5 embryo transfer. Clinical pregnancy and implantation rates were 66.7 and 49% respectively. Slow and fast cleavage had a significant negative association with normal blastocyst formation. Only 13.8% (67/484) of embryos with 9 cells on day 3 formed blastocysts with apparently normal morphology, compared to 41.9% (252/602) with 7-9 cells on day 3 (P 15% fragmentation formed normal blastocysts at a significantly lower rate (46/279; 16.5%) than embryos with 0-15% fragmentation (311/935; 33.3%) (P < 0. 001). Furthermore, the pattern of fragmentation was associated with blastocyst formation. Type IV fragmentation led to a significant reduction in blastocyst formation (25/170 or 14.7%), compared to types I, II and III which performed much better (38.6, 32.9 and 32.4% respectively). Only 15.9% (22/138) of embryos with one or more multinucleate cells on day 2 and/or 3 formed normal blastocysts compared with 31.9% (335/1051) (P < 0.001) of those without multinucleation. Collectively, the data suggest that cleavage anomalies, some of which do not preclude development after short-term culture, may reduce the developmental competence of embryos after prolonged culture.
Tell Me What You Do and I'll Tell You What You Are: Learning Occupation-Related Activities for Biographies

Biography creation requires the identification of important events in the life of the individual in question. While there are events such as birth and death that apply to everyone, most of the other activities tend to be occupation-specific. Hence, occupation gives important clues as to which activities should be included in the biography. We present techniques for automatically identifying which important events apply to the general population, which ones are occupation-specific, and which ones are person-specific. We use the extracted information as features for a multi-class SVM classifier, which is then used to automatically identify the occupation of a previously unseen individual. We present experiments involving 189 individuals from ten occupations, and we show that our approach accurately identifies general and occupation-specific activities and assigns unseen individuals to the correct occupations. Finally, we present evidence that our technique can lead to efficient and effective biography generation relying only on statistical techniques.