cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Incremental Contribution of Size Ratio as a Discriminant for Rupture Status in Cerebral Aneurysms: Comparison With Size, Height, and Vessel Diameter

BACKGROUND Aneurysm size ratio (SR), variably defined as the ratio of dome height (H) or maximal dimension (D(max)) over average parent vessel diameter (PV) diameter, has been proposed as a promising aneurysm rupture status predictor. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the incremental contribution of SR to retrospective rupture status determination in a large high-resolution aneurysm database. METHODS Measurements were performed on catheter 3D-rotational angiographic volumetric datasets for 267 aneurysms (98 ruptured). SR was computed both as H/PV (SR1) and as D(max)/PV (SR2), and its discriminant performance was evaluated on the whole dataset, on aneurysm-type subsets (bifurcation [BIF] vs sidewall [SW]), and at specific aneurysm locations. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed by the use of area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver-operating characteristics. RESULTS Neither SR1 nor SR2 were statistically correlated to rupture status in the BIF group, where only PV (AUC = 0.61) achieved significance. All parameters were statistically significant in the combined group, but with modest performance (AUC range, 0.62-0.74). SR1 (AUC = 0.84) and SR2 (AUC = 0.78) were strong predictors in the SW group, similar to H (AUC = 0.83) and D(max) (AUC = 0.77). Multivariate statistics failed to support SR as an incremental independent parameter from PV, D(max), and H. CONCLUSION SR provides an uneven performance that depends strongly on the BIF/SW distribution of the data and is not useful for bifurcation lesions. In the SW subset, the incremental contribution of the SR over its H or D(max) individual component measurements could not be validated, suggesting prior findings of its utility to be the result of aneurysm-type selection bias.
An evaluation of ground-water tracers

The ideal ground-water tracer should correctly depict the movement of water through a porous medium without modifying the transmission characteristics of the system. Cationic materials, including radio-isotopes and certain organic dyes, are generally unsatisfactory and anionic radio-isotopes when used without stable carriers may be largely retained by adsorption. Chloride may be satisfactorly used where density effects can be avoided and dispersion of clays is not likely. Organic materials are subject to decomposition by soil microorganisms and hence their value as water tracers are limited. Tritium, when used as tritiated water, may exchange with soil bound water with a resulting reduction in velocity of the tracer front.
Influential life contexts and environments for out-of-home pregnant adolescents.

This focused ethnography explored influential life experiences and environmental contexts associated with pregnancy among “out-of-home” pregnant adolescent women in Seattle (i.e., not living in stable settings or with parents). Methods adapted from feminist anthropology guided ethnographic interviewing and participant observation. Key informants (N= 8) included 5 White, 1 American Indian, and 2 African American women 17-19 years, plus expectant fathers and street friends. Narrative and domain analysis focused on life events and current experiences that participants linked to their pregnancy decisions. Participants organized their narratives primarily around relationships: conflict-laden family relationships, violence and sexual abuse in childhood, mental health and substance abuse problems, and life-long patterns of housing instability. Economic challenges, disconnection to school, and spiritual change were important in their current circumstances. For most, out-of-home status preceded pregnancy, and duri...
MAGNETIC CIRCULAR DICHROISM OF BACTERIOCHLOROPHYLL a IN SOLUTION AND IN A PROTEIN

— The magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) (300–850nm) of the bacteriochlorophyll (Bchl) a-protein from the green photosynthetic bacterium Prosthecochloris aestuarii 2 K is qualitatively similar to the MCD of Bchl a in methanol and ether solution. This result implies that the transition dipole of the lowest energy electronic transition (near 800 nm) is roughly perpendicular to the transition dipole of the next higher electronic band (near 600nm) for Bchl a molecules in the protein just as it is for molecules in solution. This result provides no support for the recent proposal that interactions with the protein rotates the direction of the transition dipoles of the 800nm band of all the Bchl a molecules in the protein by 90°. While a rotation of the 800nm transition dipoles cannot be rigorously excluded, it would be necessary for the postulated perturbation to rotate the transition dipoles of both the 800 and 600nm bands by 90°. In a broader sense, any postulated perturbation would have to be shown to leave both the absorption spectrum and the MCD largely unaffected. MCD is a more sensitive test than absorption spectroscopy for perturbations of electronic states and changes in the relative orientation of transitions, because it depends on both the magnitudes and directions of at least two electric and one magnetic transition dipole.
Thermoluminescence of meteorites and their terrestrial ages: reply to comments by S. W. S. McKeever and P. D. Townsend

The usefulness of an “effective” trap depth to approximate the group of closely spaced trap depths responsible for the low temperature thermoluminescence in meteorites is evaluated on the basis of its success when used with the TL equivalent dose method to determine terrestrial ages of Antarctic meteorites. The ages determined in this way agree in every instance with terrestrial age determinations based on 14C, 26Al, 36Cl, and 53Mn. The application of an “effective” trap depth in this TL dating technique in no way implies that the TL signal actually arises from a single trap depth.
Use of a flow-injection system in the evaluation of the characteristic behavior of neutral carriers in lithium ion-selective electrodes

Abstract A flow-injection system based on microconduits is used to investigate electrode characteristics such as selectivity, detection limit, and response and equilibrium times of the new ionophore, N,N,N′,N′-tetraisobutyl-5,5-dimethyl-3,7-dioxanonane diamide, in lithium ion-selective electrodes. These characteristics were compared with those of the ionophore N,N′-diheptyl-N,N′,5,5-tetramethyl-3,7-dioxanone diamide. The new ionophore has superior detection limits and shorter response and equilibrium time, but the other exhibits better selectivity for lithium with respect to sodium. Values of KPotLiNa for the new ionophore vary from 0.0450 to 0.566, depending on the methods of measurement and solution conditions. This phenomenon is discussed. Stop-flow experiments effectively demonstrated the response and equilibrium time differences between these two ionophore membranes.
Simultaneously recorded oscillations in membrane potential and isometric contractile force from cardiac muscle.

IN 1943, Bozler1,2 reported unusual sinusoidal oscillations in membrane potential and contractile tension which occurred immediately after relaxation of a normally triggered contraction in turtle heart muscles bathed in calcium solutions of high concentrations. Reiter3–5 observed similar contractile oscillations (which he called “aftercontractions”) in mammalian myocardium in a variety of conditions that enhance contractility. Contractile oscillations have been shown to be unaccompanied by propagated action potentials4,6. Kaufmann's group, however, detected slow corresponding oscillatory waves in membrane potential similar to those described by Bozler, and they assumed that the contractile oscillations are initiated by electrical oscillations.
Theory and practice of chaplain's spiritual care process: A psychiatrist's experiences of chaplaincy and conceptualizing trans-personal model of mindfulness.

Background: Of various spiritual care methods, mindfulness meditation has found consistent application in clinical intervention and research. Listening presence, a chaplain's model of mindfulness and its trans-personal application in spiritual care is least understood and studied. Aim: The aim was to develop a conceptualized understanding of chaplain's spiritual care process based on neuro-physiological principles of mindfulness and interpersonal empathy. Materials and Methods: Current understandings on neuro-physiological mechanisms of mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) and interpersonal empathy such as theory of mind and mirror neuron system are used to build a theoretical framework for chaplain's spiritual care process. Practical application of this theoretical model is illustrated using a carefully recorded clinical interaction, in verbatim, between chaplain and his patient. Qualitative findings from this verbatim are systematically analyzed using neuro-physiological principles. Results and Discussion: Chaplain's deep listening skills to experience patient's pain and suffering, awareness of his emotions/memories triggered by patient's story and ability to set aside personal emotions, and judgmental thoughts formed intra-personal mindfulness. Chaplain's insights on and ability to remain mindfully aware of possible emotions/thoughts in the patient, and facilitating patient to return and re-return to become aware of internal emotions/thoughts helps the patient develop own intra-personal mindfulness leading to self-healing. This form of care involving chaplain's mindfulness of emotions/thoughts of another individual, that is, patient, may be conceptualized as trans-personal model of MBI. Conclusion: Chaplain's approach may be a legitimate form of psychological therapy that includes inter and intra-personal mindfulness. Neuro-physiological mechanisms of empathy that underlie Chaplain's spiritual care process may establish it as an evidence-based clinical method of care.
Cretaceous K-Ar ages from Pacific Ocean seamounts

Abstract Potassium-argon ages were determined on mineral separates and whole rocks dredged from three seamounts southwest of the Hawaiian Islands. Biotite and hornblende ages indicate that two of the seamounts are at least 85 – 90 million years old. These ages suggest that if the sea-floor-spreading model is valid, the average rate of spreading since cretaceous cannot have been faster than the rate over the last 3 to 4 million years. Whole-rock and feldspar ages from one seamount are 25 to 50% lower than the biotite and hornblende ages, demonstrating the effects of submarine alteration on argon retention. Comparatively recent volcanism (0.70 million years) was dated on one of the seamounts.
Cellular and humoral immune response to group B streptococci.

Cellular and humoral responses to group B streptococcal challenge were studied in primate plasma. Three components are associated with clinical presentations observed in neonatal sepsis. They are B I a plasma factor, phagocytic activity, and type-specific agglutinins. The usually fatal acute sepsis due to B I a organisms is apparently due to absence of the immune components in most newborn infants. The development of delayed sepsis and meningitis due to type B III streptococci is related to an interaction of challenge dose and individual ability to phagocytize B III cells.
Influence of processed grains on fecal pH, starch concentration, and shedding of Escherichia coli O157 in feedlot cattle

Manipulation of cattle diets has been proposed as a possible preharvest control measure for Escherichia coli 0157. Altering hindgut fermentation through diet changes may be a means to reduce fecal shedding of E. coli 0157. In Exp. 1, the objective was to determine whether fecal shedding of E. coli 0157 was related to fecal starch concentration. Beginning on d 20, and every week thereafter until d 61, steers in 54 pens (6 to 7 steers per pen) were sampled (n = 122) by fecal collection and rectoanal mucosal swabs (RAMS) for E. coli 0157 and fecal starch concentration determinations. Escherichia coli 0157 prevalence was 3.3% in fecal samples, 4.1% as measured by RAMS, and 4.9% by fecal or RAMS samples. Steers positive for E. coli 0157 contained 21% more (P 0.05) for heifers that were positive or negative for E. coli 0157. Our data suggest that fecal shedding of E. coli 0157 was not related to fecal pH or starch concentration in cattle fed grain-based diets.
Pregnancy-related changes in body fat

Objective: To determine patterns of subcutaneous body fat change from preconception through 6 weeks postpartum, and factors that modify them. Study design: A prospective study of 557 healthy women enrolled prior to pregnancy. Main outcome measure: Body weight and skinfold thickness at the thigh, triceps, and subscapula, preconception, in each trimester, and 6 weeks postpartum, along with other variables. Results: Subcutaneous body fat stores remained stable (P>0.13) during the first 6 weeks after conception, and increased from 6 to 35 weeks by 1.5 mm at the triceps, 4.2 mm at the subscapular, and 7.3 mm (P<0.01) at the thigh areas. Body fat changes correlated poorly with weight changes, reflecting differences in the time course for the changes. They differed by preconceptional body mass index (BMI), parity, and infant gender (P<0.05). Women with the highest BMIs tended to gain less subcutaneous fat early, primiparous women gained more at thigh (P=0.01) and subscapular (P=0.027), and women carrying males had higher gains at the thigh (P=0.032) and subscapular sites (P=0.058) than other women. Breastfeeding status did not affect postpartum body fat changes, but women who breastfed exclusively had significantly lower skinfold thicknesses than non-exclusive breastfeeders from preconception through 6 weeks postpartum (P=0.041). Conclusion: Subcutaneous body fat is stored and utilized at different sites at specific times during and after pregnancy. The pattern and amount of change varies depending on characteristics of women and their pregnancies.
Alterations of protein metabolism in myxedema.

W I’IYH the exception of the reduction in total energy exchange, perhaps the most conspicuous alteration in the athyrotic state is that in protein metabolism.“’ This statement by Means clearly poses the problem which is the subject of this presentation. Protein abnormalities in myxedematous patients have interested investigators for some time, and it is the purpose of this communication to summarize some of these studies. An attempt will be made to correlate studies from our laboratory with those in the literature in an effort to formulate a working concept of abnormalities of protein metabolism in patients with myxedema. Experimental investigations in animals which apply to this problem will also be reviewed.
Improved nonlinear regression analysis for the single-resonance Sellmeier equation.

A modified nonlinear regression technique has been developed. A damping term is introduced in the Sellmeier equation representing anomalous dispersion. Values for this damping term and other constants in the dispersion equation are evaluated from the regression analysis. Calculated refractive-index values for several materials are shown to be in close agreement with measurements.
Unified Theory of Adsorption Chromatography with Heterogenous Surfaces: Gas, Liquid and Supercritical Fluid Mobile Phases

Abstract In an earlier study, equations describing solute retention in liquid-solid chromatography (LSC) with a homogeneous adsorbent and a binary liquid mobile phase were derived through application of statistical thermodynamics and a mean-field lattice model. That investigation is extended here to obtain and interpret new equations for energetically and/or structurally heterogeneous adsorbents modelled in terms of a discrete distribution of internally homogeneous surface “patches”. Then, exploiting the isomorphism between binary-liquid and single-fluid critical behavior, the unified theory of the title, applicable to single-component mobile phases, is derived and discussed in some detail. The primary results, equations 23–29, confirm that the natural mobile-phase state variables are its reduced temperature and reduced density. These equations should find their widest use in supercritical fluid chromatography. As a quantitative example of its utility and efficacy, the theory is applied here to gas-solid ...
Haemophilus influenzae OxyR: Characterization of Its Regulation, Regulon and Role in Fitness

To prevent damage by reactive oxygen species, many bacteria have evolved rapid detection and response systems, including the OxyR regulon. The OxyR system detects reactive oxygen and coordinates the expression of numerous defensive antioxidants. In many bacterial species the coordinated OxyR-regulated response is crucial for in vivo survival. Regulation of the OxyR regulon of Haemophilus influenzae was examined in vitro, and significant variation in the regulated genes of the OxyR regulon among strains of H. influenzae was observed. Quantitative PCR studies demonstrated a role for the OxyR-regulated peroxiredoxin/glutaredoxin as a mediator of the OxyR response, and also indicated OxyR self-regulation through a negative feedback loop. Analysis of transcript levels in H. influenzae samples derived from an animal model of otitis media demonstrated that the members of the OxyR regulon were actively upregulated within the chinchilla middle ear. H. influenzae mutants lacking the oxyR gene exhibited increased sensitivity to challenge with various peroxides. The impact of mutations in oxyR was assessed in various animal models of H. influenzae disease. In paired comparisons with the corresponding wild-type strains, the oxyR mutants were unaffected in both the chinchilla model of otitis media and an infant model of bacteremia. However, in weanling rats the oxyR mutant was significantly impaired compared to the wild-type strain. In contrast, in all three animal models when infected with a mixture of equal numbers of both wild-type and mutant strains the mutant strain was significantly out competed by the wild-type strain. These findings clearly establish a crucial role for OxyR in bacterial fitness.
Polyethylene glycolated interleukin-2 as maintenance therapy for acute myelogenous leukemia in second remission

Seven patients in second complete remission of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) aged 19–65 years were treated with polyethylene glycolated interleukin-2 (PEG IL-2), 1 × 106 U/M2 IV weekly as the sole postremission therapy. Second remission duration was in the range of 4–49+ months, and three patients had a second remission duration substantially longer than their first (6,21 +, and 42+ months). The results suggest that PEG IL-2 may prolong second remission duration in AML and that a prospective randomized study designed to test that idea is warranted. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Dynamic Model for Functional Mapping of Biological Rhythms

Functional mapping is a statistical method for mapping quantitative trait loci (QTLs) that regulate the dynamic pattern of a biological trait. This method integrates mathematical aspects of biological complexity into a mixture model for genetic mapping and tests the genetic effects of QTLs by comparing genotype-specific curve parameters. As a way of quantitatively specifying the dynamic behavior of a system, differential equations have proven to be powerful for modeling and unraveling the biochemical, molecular, and cellular mechanisms of a biological process, such as biological rhythms. The equipment of functional mapping with biologically meaningful differential equations provides new insights into the genetic control of any dynamic processes. We formulate a new functional mapping framework for a dynamic biological rhythm by incorporating a group of ordinary differential equations (ODE). The Runge-Kutta fourth order algorithm was implemented to estimate the parameters that define the system of ODE. The new model will find its implications for understanding the interplay between gene interactions and developmental pathways in complex biological rhythms.
Otitis Media: Molecular Impact of Inflammation in the Middle and Inner Ear—Cytokines, Steroids, and Ion Homeostasis†‡

An overview of recent topics under investigation in our laboratory is presented. Topics include the cytokine and ion homeostasis gene response to steroids in the middle ear in a murine model of otitis media and gene chip analysis of inner ear genes affected by trans-tympanic and systemic steroid administration to the mouse.
In vitro absorption and antiproliferative activities of monomeric and polymeric anthocyanin fractions from açai fruit (Euterpe oleracea Mart.)

Abstract Anthocyanins are among the most important and widely consumed natural pigments in foods, and have attracted increased attention as natural food colourants and potent bioactive agents. However, anthocyanins are generally unstable and may undergo chemical changes that include oxidative and polymerisation reactions during processing and storage. The role of anthocyanin polymerisation reactions on in vitro intestinal absorption and anti-cancer properties has not been assessed. This study investigated the chemical composition, antioxidant properties, antiproliferative activity, and in vitro absorption of monomeric and polymeric anthocyanin fractions from acai fruit (Euterpe oleracea Mart.). Cyanidin-3-rutinoside (58.5 ± 4.6%) and cyanidin-3-glucoside (41.5 ± 1.1%) were the predominant compounds found in monomeric fractions, while a mixture of anthocyanin adducts were found in polymeric fractions and characterised using HPLC–ESI-MSn analyses. Monomeric fractions (0.5–100 μg cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalents/ml) inhibited HT-29 colon cancer cell proliferation by up to 95.2% while polymeric anthocyanin fractions (0.5–100 μg cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalents/ml) induced up to 92.3% inhibition. In vitro absorption trials using Caco-2 intestinal cell monolayers demonstrated that cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside were similarly transported from the apical to the basolateral side of the cell monolayers (0.5–4.9% efficiency), while no polymeric anthocyanins were transported following incubation for up to 2 h. The addition of polymeric anthocyanin fractions also decreased monomeric anthocyanin transport by up to 40.3 ± 2.8%. Results from this study provide novel information regarding the relative size, absorption, and bioactive properties of anthocyanin monomers and polymer adducts.
On the triggering mechanism for the metal–insulator transition in thin film VO2 devices: electric field versus thermal effects

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) has been shown to undergo an abrupt electronic phase transition near 70 °C from a semiconductor to a metal, with an increase in dc conductivity of over three orders of magnitude, making it an interesting candidate for advanced electronics as well as fundamental research in understanding correlated electron systems. Recent experiments suggest that this transition can be manifested independent of a structural phase transition in the system, and that it can be triggered by the application of an electric field across the VO2 thin film. Several experiments that have studied this behavior, however, also involve a heating of the VO2 channel by leakage currents, raising doubts about the underlying mechanism behind the transition. To address the important question of thermal effects due to the applied field, we report the results of electro-thermal simulations on a number of experimentally realized device geometries, showing the extent of heating caused by the leakage current in the “off” state of the VO2 device. The simulations suggest that in a majority of the cases considered, Joule heating is insufficient to trigger the transition by itself, resulting in a typical temperature rise of less than 10 K. However, the heating following a field-induced transition often also induces the structural transition. Nevertheless, for certain devices, we identify the possibility of maintaining the field-induced high conductivity phase without causing the structural phase transition: an important requirement for the prospect of making high-speed switching devices based on VO2 thin film structures. Such electronically driven transitions may also lead to novel device functionalities including ultra-fast sensors or gated switches incorporating ferroelectrics.
THE HALT AND THE BLIND: PHILOSOPHY AND HISTORY OF SCIENCE

Revue de cet ouvrage collectif qui contient des articles de I. Lakatos (methode et evaluation dans les sciences physiques), P. Clarck (atomisme vs. thermodynamique), J. Worrall (T. Young et la "refutation" de l'optique newtonienne), E. Zahar (Pourquoi le programme d'Einstein remplaca celui de Lorentz), A. Musgrave (la revolution chimique), M. Fricke (le rejet de l'hypothese d'Avogadro), P. Fayerabend (Sur la critique de la raison scientifique).
Runoff and suspended sediment yields from an unpaved road segment, St John, US Virgin Islands

Unpaved roads are believed to be the primary source of terrigenous sediments being delivered to marine ecosystems around the island of St John in the eastern Caribbean. The objectives of this study were to: (1) measure runoff and suspended sediment yields from a road segment; (2) develop and test two event-based runoff and sediment prediction models; and (3) compare the predicted sediment yields against measured values from an empirical road erosion model and from a sediment trap. The runoff models use the Green–Ampt infiltration equation to predict excess precipitation and then use either an empirically derived unit hydrograph or a kinematic wave to generate runoff hydrographs. Precipitation, runoff, and suspended sediment data were collected from a 230 m long, mostly unpaved road segment over an 8-month period. Only 3–5 mm of rainfall was sufficient to initiate runoff from the road surface. Both models simulated similar hydrographs. Model performance was poor for storms with less than 1 cm of rainfall, but improved for larger events. The largest source of error was the inability to predict initial infiltration rates. The two runoff models were coupled with empirical sediment rating curves, and the predicted sediment yields were approximately 0·11 kg per square meter of road surface per centimetre of precipitation. The sediment trap data indicated a road erosion rate of 0·27 kg m−2 cm−1. The difference in sediment production between these two methods can be attributed to the fact that the suspended sediment samples were predominantly sand and silt, whereas the sediment trap yielded mostly sand and gravel. The combination of these data sets yields a road surface erosion rate of 0·31 kg m−2 cm−1, or approximately 36 kg m−2 year−1. This is four orders of magnitude higher than the measured erosion rate from undisturbed hillslopes. The results confirm the importance of unpaved roads in altering runoff and erosion rates in a tropical setting, provide insights into the controlling processes, and provide guidance for predicting runoff and sediment yields at the road-segment scale. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and structural characterization of sulfur rich iron (II) carbonyl dimers: Facile reversible reaction with carbon monoxide

Abstract The sulfur-rich iron carbonyl dimer complexes [Fe(CO) 2 (S′ Si S 2 )] 2 ( 2 ), and [Fe(CO)(S′ Si S 2 )] 2 ( 3 ) have been prepared. The [2Fe–2S] cores of the new complexes are planar. The binding mode of the tridentate sulfur ligand in complex 2 is facial with a S(thiolate)–Fe–S(thiolate) angle of 92°, while in complex 3 , the S′ Si S 2 ligand binds the metal with a S(thiolate)–M–S(thiolate) angle of 120°. The Fe–Fe distance is reduced from 3.45 A in complex 2 to 2.78 A in the 32 electron dimer complex 3 . Complexes 2 and 3 are at equilibrium in solution and can be readily interconverted by addition or removal of CO.
A Novel Method for Estimating Solid Fraction of Roller-Compacted Ribbons

A simple method has been developed to estimate solid fraction or relative density of compacts using the weight of ribbons produced during roller compaction. The method provides an alternative to th...
Association of chromatin fibers with the annuli of the nuclear membrane.

Abstract Electron microscopy of whole mount preparations of mammalian and avian interphase nuclei indicate that the chromatin fibers converge and attach to the annuli of the nuclear membrane. Even when the annuli are pulled away the radial arrangement of converging chromatin fibers frequently persists. Similar configurations were seen in water-spread meiotic and mitotic chromosomes. The significance of the findings in relation to the non-random folding of the chromatin fibers of chromosomes is discussed.
A comparison of pre-operative comorbidities and post-operative outcomes among patients undergoing laparoscopic nissen fundoplication at high- and low-volume centers

Introduction Commonly cited data promoting laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) as safe and efficacious are typically published by single centers, affiliated with teaching institutions with a high volume of cases, but LNF is not universally performed at these hospitals. The purpose of this study is to assess where these procedures are being done and to compare pre-operative comorbidities and post-operative outcomes between high-and low-volume centers using a state-wide inpatient database.
Antisperm antibodies in women undergoing intrauterine insemination

Intrauterine insemination is widely used for the treatment of infertility as a result of cervical or male factors or empirically before in vitro fertilization or gamete intrafallopian transfer. This study was designed to confirm or refute the theoretical concern that intrauterine insemination may induce antisperm antibodies in such women. Serum and cervical mucus were obtained at the first, fourth, and sixth intrauterine inseminations. The serum was screened by the Immunobead test for IgG and IgA. If screening results were positive (>10% binding), antisperm antibodies were titered by the microimmobilization and microagglutination tests. The Immunobead test was performed on the cervical mucus after liquefication with bromelin. Ninety-three patients were followed up prospectively. Of these, 40 completed six intrauterine insemination cycles and the remaining 53 completed four cycles. Low transient antisperm antibody levels were detected in 10.8% of the patients and would not be expected to affect the prognosis for fertility. It is concluded that intrauterine insemination does not induce significant antisperm antibody production in women.
Potassium additions on ionic equilibria, selectivity and diffusion of cations in soils

Abstract In a soil system variation in the concentration of any one ion as induced by external addition might bring changes in the ionic‐equilibria, diffusion rate and strength of adsorption of all the ions involved. In four Indiana soils the changes in ionic equilibria, selectivity coefficient and rate of diffusion coefficient for K, Na, Ca and Mg were investigated at 5 levels of added K. The experiments were carried out under controlled laboratory conditions by incubating soils for 3 weeks at 25C. All soils had a greater fraction of Ca and Mg on the exchange phase than in solution, whereas with K and Na the reverse occurred. Potassium adsorption isotherms for all the soils differed indicating the difference in the nature of soil materials involved. Chalmers soil with high clay content with high exchange capacity had high differential buffer value for K. In all the soils, K was adsorbed preferentially to Na at all the levels of K addition, Calcium was adsorbed preferentially to Mg on the Zanesville and T...
Career burnout among pediatric oncologists.

Background Burnout is a work-related syndrome consisting of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished feelings of personal accomplishment. Physicians who care for patients with life-threatening illnesses are at high risk for developing burnout. This survey evaluates the prevalence of burnout among pediatric oncologists, and assesses risk factors associated with the development of burnout. Procedure A questionnaire was sent via email to 1,047 practicing pediatric oncologists. The survey included the 22 question Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), as well as questions regarding work-related and lifestyle-related factors associated with developing burnout. Results Four hundred ten pediatric oncologists (40%) responded to the survey. Thirty-eight percent of pediatric oncologists had high levels of burnout on the MBI, while 72% had at least moderate levels of burnout. Women (47% vs. 32%, P < 0.004) and physicians practicing for <10 years (50% vs. 33%, P < 0.004) had significantly higher rates of burnout. Physicians who reported satisfaction with their lives outside of work were less likely to have burnout (odds ratio 0.238, 0.143–0.396, P < 0.001). The availability of a forum for debriefing, and services for physicians affected by burnout were both associated with lower rates of burnout (24% vs. 46%, P < 0.001 and 23% vs. 46%, P < 0.001). Thirty-six percent of respondents reported their institution has a forum for debriefing and 40% of respondents reported their institution has services available for physicians experiencing symptoms of burnout. Conclusions Approximately three quarters of pediatric oncologists experience burnout. Further research is needed on the effectiveness of interventions aimed at preventing and treating work-related burnout. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 1168–1173. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of Hypochlorite Oxidant or Extrusion on Nutrient Intake and Digestibility of Cotton Textile Byproduct by Holstein Heifers

Abstract Woldeghebriel, A., Bernard, J.K. and Mueller, T.C. 2000. Effect of hypochlorite oxidant or extrusion on nutrient intake and digestibility of cotton textile byporduct by Holstein heifers. J. Appl. Anim. Res., 17: 225–237. A 5x5 Latin square design trial was conducted to determine the effect of a hypochlorite oxidant and extrusion on nutrient intake and digestibility of textile mill byproduct (TMB) and compare TMB with pelleted cottonseed hulls (PCSH). Treatments included pelleted cottonseed hulls (PCSH), untreated (CONT), predigested with a hypochlorite oxidant (PD), extruded (EXT), and predigested. and extruded. (P&E) byproduct. Extrusion increased the bulk density of TBM by 32% and did not alter nutrient intake or digestibility compared with CONT. Dry matter (DM) and nutrient intake of heifers was not affected by treatment with hypochlorite oxidant. Apparent digestibility of neutral (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) was lowest for PCSH compared with TMB and was greatest for PD compared with C...
SADDLE: A computer-aided structural analysis and dynamic design language—Part I. design system

Abstract The SADDLE system is a tool for computer-aided optimal design of structural and mechanical systems. The system is divided into four parts—the preprocessor, the ‘analyzer’, the ‘synthesizer’, and the postprocessor. The structural model and the design data are generated by the preprocessor. The analyzer uses the finite-element method to compute deflections and stresses in the structure. The synthesizer solves the design problem that is cast into a nonlinear programming format. The postprocessor is used to examine the analysis and design results. Different parts of the system interact via a global database. This study presents the design system configuration. In a companion study, the data management part is presented in detail. The user-interface for design is examined first. The design problem formulation, in the nonlinear programming problem context, is presented. The use of utility libraries to achieve this objective with a minimum programming effort is also explained. The article concludes with two numerical examples that belong to two different classes of design problems—a minimum weight design problem and a min-max problem.
SELECTION EFFECTS IN SPECTROSCOPIC OBSERVATIONS OF QSOs.

IT has been suggested that the observed redshift distribution among quasistellar objects (QSOs) is largely determined by observational selection effects and therefore should not be used in studies of possible cosmological models or of the properties of the QSOs themselves1,2. Although these effects do, in principle, exist I believe that their importance has been overstated and that, with some exceptions and reservations, the observed distribution is a useful approximation to the true one.
STUDIES ON SERUM PROTEOLYTIC ENZYME INHIBITION : EFFECT OF TISSUE DESTRUCTION, CORTISONE ACETATE, AND SPLENECTOMY ON THE SERUM TRYPSIN INHIBITOR

Serial studies of the serum levels of trypsin inhibitor have been performed on monkeys following injection of turpentine-falba, total body irradiation, thermal injury, splenectomy, administration of cortisone acetate and egg albumin. Following the injection of turpentine-falba mixture there was a prompt elevation in the trypsin inhibitor power of the serum. A similar response accompanied the administration of cortisone acetate. The response to cortisone was not inhibited by removal of the spleen. Animals premedicated with cortisone acetate for 3 and 4 weeks showed no statistically significant change in the level of the serum inhibitor following injection of the turpentine-falba. Total body irradiation and immunization with egg albumin were accompanied by a very slight rise in the inhibitory power of the serum despite a prompt and extensive drop in the total white blood cell count in the irradiated animals, and development of precipitins in all of the immunized animals. The significance of these findings is discussed.
Electronic structure of trigonal and amorphous Se and Te

The electronic structure of trigonal and amorphous Se and Te is investigated using the empirical pseudopotential method (EPM), charge-density calculations, and simple tight-binding models. Band structures and electronic densities of states are obtained which are in excellent agreement with recent photoemission measurements. The tight-binding models are used to obtain analytic expressions for the energy bands and to interpret the EPM band structures in terms of real-space orbital-orbital interactions. Charge-density calculations obtained as a function of energy and evaluated within specific energy intervals are used to interpret various structure in the density of states. Specifically certain easily resolvable peaks in the experimental photoemission spectra are associated with intrachain and interchain localized states, respectively. By taking only short-wavelength components of the charge density, a bonding charge can be defined which gives an estimate of the intrachain vs interchain bonding strengths. The trigonal results along with model calculations to investigate the effects of bond-angle variations on chains and the presence of eight- and six-fold rings of bonds are used to interpret the changes observed in the experimental spectra of amorphous Se and Te. A new model of amorphous Se is proposed.
The moiré method in thermal fields

The differential moire method was used for the analysis of strains and stresses in externally loaded bodies at elevated temperatures. A technique was developed to reproduce a crossed grating of a density of 500 lines/in. on the surface of the specimens in both principal directions. This grating resisted temperatures up to the glowing point of the material tested. An arrangement of cameras allowed full-scale copying of the crossed model grating on the ground glass of a camera. Mechanical-interference patterns in both directions were obtained by superimposing various linear reference gratings on the image of the model grating. The moire fringes produced in both principal directions of the specimen with reference gratings of slightly different pitch were photographed by a second camera. These fringes yielded the displacement distribution of the specimen with great accuracy.
Uncomfortable bedfellows: Objective quantum Bayesianism and the von Neumann-Lüders projection postulate

Abstract In this paper I critically evaluate the justification of the von Neumann–Luders projection postulate for state changes in projective measurement contexts from the objective quantum Bayesian perspective. I point out that the justification provided so far for the von Neumann–Luders projection postulate is insufficient. I argue that the best way to correct this problem is to make an assumption, Benign Realism, which is contradictory to the objective quantum Bayesian interpretation of quantum states.
Cholesterol Metabolism in Diabetes: The Effect of Insulin on the Kinetics of Plasma Squalene*

The turnover of isotopically labeled squalene formed in plasma from [14C]mevalonate has been used to measure cholesterol synthesis in diabetics over a 7-h period. Five patients were studied while in poor diabetic control (mean daytime glycemia, 349 mg/dl) and at a later date once improved control was established by multiple daily insulin injections (mean glycemia, 175 mg/dl). This degree of diabetic control resulted in an increase in the fractional conversion of [14C]mevalonic acid to [14C]squalene from 55.2 +/- 1% to 67.5 +/- 4% (P less than 0.025). These data together with the area under the squalene specific activity curve yeild an estimated rate of cholesterol synthesis based on the likely assumption that mevalonate pool size did not decrease. Insulinization increased this calculated mean rate of cholesterol synthesis from 961 +/- 151 to 1206 +/- 223 mg/day (P less than 0.025). The use of squalene kinetics to evaluate changes in cholesterol synthesis deserves further study, particularly in metabolically unstable states such as diabetes in which conventional methods for measuring cholesterol synthesis are difficult to apply and to interpret.
Correcting the Ricardo Error Spotted in Harry Johnson's Maiden Paper

Introduction, 519.—Truth lost, and found, 520.—Graphical depiction, 522.—The error corrected, 524.—Conclusion, 525.—Mathematical appendix, 525.
Schistosoma japonicum : changes in lipase activity in adults maintained in vitro

Schistosoma japonicum (Chinese strain) adult worm pairs (10-12 weeks old) were fixed in 4 degrees C absolute acetone or neutral buffered formalin either immediately after recovery from mice, or following incubation for 0.5 or 1.0 h. Males and females were incubated individually in Earle's balanced salt solution at 37 degrees C. Lipase activity was determined in frozen sections by Gomori's method using Tween 80 as substrate. In unincubated males, lipase activity was localized only in the parenchyma; in females it was present in the vitellaria and parenchyma subjacent to the tegument. After 0.5 h incubation, males showed less lipase activity in the parenchyma than unincubated males, and females showed increased activity in the parenchyma subjacent to the tegument, but not in the vitellaria. Following 1.0 h incubation, males showed less lipase activity than previously, and females showed a marked increase in activity, particularly in the parenchyma subjacent to the tegument.
Careers-perspective interview

Yes, in general, but this job and career suited me perfectly and I didn't pursue other options.
Effect of sodium channel abundance on Drosophila development, reproductive capacity and aging

The voltage-gated Na (+) channels (VGSC) are complex membrane proteins responsible for generation and propagation of the electrical signals through the brain, the skeletal muscle and the heart. The levels of sodium channels affect behavior and physical activity. This is illustrated by the maleless mutant allele (mle (napts)) in Drosophila, where the decreased levels of voltage-gated Na(+) channels cause temperature-sensitive paralysis. Here, we report that mle (napts) mutant flies exhibit developmental lethality, decreased fecundity and increased neurodegeneration. The negative effect of decreased levels of Na(+) channels on development and ts-paralysis was more pronounced at 18 and 29°C than at 25°C, suggesting particular sensitivity of the mle (napts) flies to temperatures above and below normal environmental conditions. Similarly, longevity of mle (napts) flies was unexpectedly short at 18 and 29°C compared with flies heterozygous for the mle (napts) mutation. Developmental lethality and neurodegeneration of mle (napts) flies was partially rescued by increasing the dosage of para, confirming a vital role of Na(+) channels in development, longevity and neurodegeneration of flies and their adaptation to temperatures.
Harmonic measure on 3-dimensional Brownian paths

La trace X([0,∞]) du mouvement brownien a trois dimensions a une capacite positive et ainsi la mesure harmonique est bien definie sur cet ensemble. On montre que cette mesure est singuliere presque surement relativement a la mesure d'occupation de Lebesgue OX −1
Sphingolipids in human lens membranes: an update on their composition and possible biological implications

The unique nature of the most abundant phospholipids in human lens membranes remained overlooked until the 1990s when it was possible to discern dihydrosphingomyelins (DHSMs) from the more common sphingomyelins (SMs). Unlike in other mammalian membranes, DHSMs comprise nearly half of the phospholipids in adult human lenses. Compared to SMs with a trans double bond between carbons 4 and 5 of the sphingoid backbone, the absence of this unsaturation site in DHSMs allows the participation of the OH group on C3 in intermolecular H-bonds and leads to stronger interlipid interactions with both neighboring DHSMs and cholesterol. Phospholipid compositional changes with age and lens region observed in mammals with various life spans and lens growth rates, suggest that the highest levels of DHSMs along with the lowest amounts of phosphatidylcholines and SMs are found in lenses with the lowest growth rate, namely human lenses. The participation of phospholipid metabolites in the control of mitosis and elongation of lens cells is plausible and deserves investigation.
Microearthquakes near the Albuquerque Volcanoes, New Mexico

A series of about 300 small earthquakes with magnitudes up to 2.5 (M L ) were observed near the Albuquerque Volcanoes, New Mexico, between September 28, 1978, and April 30, 1979. A first approximation to a crustal model for the active area was derived using a delay time analysis of arrival times from local explosions. The thickness of the sedimentary section near the volcanoes was estimated to be about 5 km. The P-wave velocity in the sedimentary section above the refractor is estimated to be 3.5 km/sec. Earthquakes located by a small network of field seismographs were used to calculate station corrections for the 13-element U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) seismic array monitoring the Albuquerque Basin. Hypocenters for 93 well-recorded earthquakes were determined using this array with the station corrections. The earthquake sequence was generated within a small source region about 2.5 km west of the fissures from which the Albuquerque Volcanoes erupted. The events have an average focal depth of 9.5 km and are interpreted, from a composite focal mechanism, to have occurred along a north-south—striking, high-angle, down-to-the-west normal fault. The active fault, when projected to the surface, is in good agreement with the position and strike of both the volcanoes9 fissure and the County Dump fault, directly to the south of the volcanoes.
Reflective optics for irradiance redistribution of laser beams: design

The output irradiance of a typical unstable resonator with circular symmetry has a central obscuration and is peaked near the obscuration. A method is presented for designing two-mirror optical systems to convert this beam into a beam of arbitrary obscuration ratio and more uniform irradiance. A method is also given for analyzing the alignment sensitivity of such a system. An example shows that useful irradiance redistributions can be achieved with alignment sensitivities comparable to ordinary Cassegrain systems.