cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Yoga, Mindfulness, and Mentalization: Central Role of Attention and Compassion

Deep philosophies of Yoga and meditation are the various theories about human mind and the various ways the mind works. Yoga, mindfulness, and mentalization are three related concepts and are often used interchangeably. Both mindfulness and mentalization are metacognitive which is defined simply as reflective cognition about cognition or knowing about knowing (Koriat 2000, p. 149). As concepts, they shed light on higher human qualities like empathy and compassion as well as on a variety of psychotherapeutic phenomena, including some aspects of transference (the thoughts and feelings aroused in the patient about his/her therapist) and countertransference (the thoughts and feelings aroused in the therapist about his/her patient). It is amazing to see the progress of neural sciences exploring and explaining these concepts in an ongoing manner. Some of them, as discussed later in this chapter, are the concepts of mentalizing areas of brain and the mirror neurons (discovered by Rizzolatti et al. 1996) which can be called as the experiential neurons because they map our experiences in our brain in form of the neural impressions of the perceived actions of others as well as their meanings.
Fertilizer Program Impacts Yield and Blossom End Rot in Bell Pepper

High-value vegetable crops such as bell pepper (Capsicum annuum) are heavily fertilized by growers who seek to maximize yields. Field experiments were conducted in Spring 2016 and 2017 evaluating two liquid fertilizers with and without calcium (Ca), applied at three nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) levels in two varieties of bell pepper to determine whether current fertilizer recommendations were adequate and whether fertilizer source impacted fruit yield and quality. Plants were grown using plastic mulch and drip irrigation following standard production practices for the region. Two liquid fertilizer programs [7N–0P–5.8 (7–0–7) and 4N–0P–6.6K/9N–0P–0K–11Ca (4–0–8/CN9)] were applied twice weekly at three N rates (175, 200, and 225 lb/acre N). Yield, cull rate, and foliar nutrient concentrations were measured. In 2016, total marketable yields were greatest [910 boxes/acre (28 lb/box)] and blossom end rot (BER) incidence (14.4%) lowest in plants grown with the supplemental Ca (4–0–8/C9 fertilizer) at 175 lb/acre N. Cull rates increased in plants grown without supplemental Ca during the season (7–0–7 fertilizer), with BER incidence ranging from 22.9% to 27.2%. Yields ranged from 590 to 740 boxes/acre in plants grown without supplemental Ca in 2016. In 2017, yields ranged from 530 to 790 boxes/acre in plants grown with supplemental Ca at 200 and 175 lb/acre N, respectively. Culls due to BER were lower in 2017 than in 2016. In 2016, BER incidence was greater in ‘PSO9979325’ compared with ‘Antebellum’, despite no differences in total yield. Foliar nutrient levels were largely unaffected by fertilizer program; however, foliar N and K concentrations increased with the rate of N and K fertilization. The results of this study suggest that using liquid fertilizer program containing some Ca may benefit bell pepper growers in some, but not all, growing seasons.
Health Beliefs Regarding Cardiovascular Disease Risk and Risk Reduction in South Asian Immigrants: An Integrative Review:

Introduction: The risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) is higher in South Asians (SAs) than in other ethnic groups. The purpose of this review is to explore SAs' health beliefs regarding CVD risk and risk reduction behaviors including physical activity and healthy diet. Methodology: An integrative review was conducted to examine the peer-reviewed literature published before May 2017. Searches from PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL yielded 1 mixed-method, 4 quantitative, and 14 qualitative studies. Results: Stress, lack of exercise, and high-fat diet were perceived as causes of CVD in most studies. Lack of time, sociocultural norms, and insufficient guidance from health care providers were perceived barriers to CVD risk reduction. Exercise and healthy diet were perceived to be beneficial in a few studies. Cues to action included information from community leaders and health care providers. Discussion: Understanding the unique health beliefs of SAs regarding CVD is important in planning and delivering culturally competent preventive and educational services.
A Field Study of Teachers Using a Curriculum-integrated Digital Game

We present a new framework describing how teachers use ST Math, a curriculum-integrated, year-long educational game, in 3rd-4th grade classrooms. We combined authentic classroom observations with teacher interviews to identify teacher needs and practices. Our findings extended and contrasted with prior work on teachers' behaviors around classroom games, identifying differences likely arising from a digital platform and year-long curricular integration. We suggest practical ways that curriculum-integrated games can be designed to help teachers support effective classroom culture and practice.
Characterizing co-occurring conditions by age at diagnosis in autism spectrum disorders

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) experience a significant number of co-occurring medical conditions, yet little is known about these conditions beyond prevalence. We hypothesized that individuals with ASD experienced an increased burden of co-occurring conditions as measured by presence, frequency, and duration of visits related to co-occurring conditions. We expected that age of ASD diagnosis (early, 7) would be associated with different co-occurring conditions. Medical record data were extracted from a large anonymized medical center database for 3097 individuals with ASD and 3097 matched controls. Co-occurring conditions were characterized using a novel tool (pyPheWAS) to examine presence, frequency, and duration of each condition. We identified several categories of co-occurring conditions in ASD: neurological (epilepsy, sleep disorders); psychiatric (mood disorders, adjustment/conduct disorders, suicidal ideation), and developmental. Early ASD diagnosis was associated with epilepsy-related conditions, whereas a later diagnosis was associated with psychiatric conditions. The early ASD diagnosis group had later first diagnosis of co-occurring psychiatric conditions compared to the late ASD diagnosis group. Our work confirms individuals with ASD are under a significant medical burden, with increased duration and frequency of visits associated with co-occurring conditions. Adequate management of these conditions could reduce burden on individuals with ASD.
Immunomagnetic cell sorting.

For genome-wide screens and other applications that require the processing of a large number of cells, the immunomagnetic sorting of cells on a microfluidic chip is a scalable, rapid and cost-efficient alternative to fluorescence-activated cell sorting.
Rare diagnoses and allocation of precious resources

The treatment of rare and expensive medical conditions confounds care delivery and is one of the defining qualities of pediatric cardiology and congenital heart surgery. Increasing concerns over healthcare resource allocation are challenging the merits of treating more expensive forms of congenital heart disease, and this trend will almost certainly continue. In this chapter, the problems of resource allocation for rare and expensive medical conditions are described from philosophical and economic perspectives. The argument is made that current economic models are limited in the ability to assess the value of treating expensive and rare forms of congenital heart disease. Further, multi-disciplinary approaches are necessary to best determine the merits of treating a patient population such as those with significant congenital heart disease that sometimes requires enormous healthcare resources.
Assessment and comparison of putative amine receptor complement/diversity in the brain and eyestalk ganglia of the lobster, Homarus americanus.

In decapods, dopamine, octopamine, serotonin, and histamine function as locally released/hormonally delivered modulators of physiology/behavior. Although the functional roles played by amines in decapods have been examined extensively, little is known about the identity/diversity of their amine receptors. Recently, a Homarus americanus mixed nervous system transcriptome was used to identify putative neuronal amine receptors in this species. While many receptors were identified, some were fragmentary, and no evidence of splice/other variants was found. Here, the previously predicted proteins were used to search brain- and eyestalk ganglia-specific transcriptomes to assess/compare amine receptor complements in these portions of the lobster nervous system. All previously identified receptors were reidentified from the brain and/or eyestalk ganglia transcriptomes, i.e., dopamine alpha-1, beta-1, and alpha-2 (Homam-DAα2R) receptors, octopamine alpha (Homam-OctαR), beta-1, beta-2, beta-3, beta-4, and octopamine–tyramine (Homam-OTR-I) receptors, serotonin type-1A, type-1B (Homam-5HTR1B), type-2B, and type-7 receptors; and histamine type-1 (Homam-HA1R), type-2, type-3, and type-4 receptors. For many previously partial proteins, full-length receptors were deduced from brain and/or eyestalk ganglia transcripts, i.e., Homam-DAα2R, Homam-OctαR, Homam-OTR-I, and Homam-5HTR1B. In addition, novel dopamine/ecdysteroid, octopamine alpha-2, and OTR receptors were discovered, the latter, Homam-OTR-II, being a putative paralog of Homam-OTR-I. Finally, evidence for splice/other variants was found for many receptors, including evidence for some being assembly-specific, e.g., a brain-specific Homam-OTR-I variant and an eyestalk ganglia-specific Homam-HA1R variant. To increase confidence in the transcriptome-derived sequences, a subset of receptors was cloned using RT-PCR. These data complement/augment those reported previously, providing a more complete picture of amine receptor complement/diversity in the lobster nervous system.
Digital Technology, Meditative and Contemplative Practices, and Transcendent Experiences

Meditative and contemplative practices are common among U.S. adults, but the impact of digital technology use on these practices and on associated transcendent experiences is poorly understood. Through semi-structured interviews with sixteen experienced practitioners from a variety of traditions, we find that practitioners consider digital technology to be a mixed blessing. While they see its practical value, they are wary of its stimulation-based effects and find minimal usefulness in commercial meditation apps. They also feel that digital technology use may interfere with possible transcendent experiences. The practitioners, however, applied insights from their respective practices to strategically mitigate digital technology's negative effects in three ways: limiting its use to instrumental purposes, using technology interactions as grist for self-reflection, and integrating technology itself into a site for practice. Specific design recommendations are discussed.
Gunshot wound to big red.

A 22-year-old man presented to the trauma center with a single gunshot wound to the right upper quadrant. The patient’s systolic blood pressure was reported to be 80 mm Hg in the field. The patient was alert and responsive on arrival. His initial vital signs were a heart rate of 120 beats per minute, a systolic blood pressure of 138 mm Hg, and a respiratory rate of 20/min. His abdominal examination was significant for a gunshot wound approximately 10 cm inferior to the right costal margin and 6 cm lateral to the midline. In addition, his abdomen was distended and diffusely tender to palpation. After blood was drawn for type and cross-match, the patient was moved to the operating room. A massive transfusion protocol was initiated, and a cephalosporin antibiotic was administered. After intubation, a midline exploratory laparotomy was performed. A significant hemoperitoneum was evacuated. At this point, the anesthesiologist stated that the patient’s systolic blood pressure had dropped to 80 mm Hg. On rapid inspection of the abdominal cavity, through-and-through wounds to the prepyloric gastric antrum, through-and-through wounds to the head of the pancreas, and a large midline supramesocolic hematoma were noted. Division of the gastrocolic omentum allowed for exposure and suture repair of the anterior and posterior holes in the prepyloric antrum. A few peripancreatic bleeders were ligated as the head of the pancreas was inspected. The location of the through-and-through wounds in the head of the pancreas suggested that neither the common bile duct nor the main pancreatic duct of Wirsung was injured. The most appropriate next step at operation is: 1. Left anterolateral thoracotomy/cross-clamp descending thoracic aorta 2. Add median sternotomy to midline laparotomy incision 3. Left medial mobilization maneuver 4. Cattell-Braasch maneuver At this point, the midline supramesocolic hematoma was larger than when first observed. It was approached by a left medial mobilization maneuver …
IBM Functional Genomics Platform, A Cloud-Based Platform for Studying Microbial Life at Scale

The rapid growth in biological sequence data is revolutionizing our understanding of genotypic diversity and challenging conventional approaches to informatics. Due to the increasing available genomic data, traditional bioinformatic tools require substantial computational time and the creation of ever-larger indices each time a researcher seeks to gain insight from the data. To address this, we pre-computed important relationships between biological entities spanning the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology and captured this information in a relational database. The database can be queried across hundreds of millions of entities and returns results in a fraction of the time required by traditional methods. We describe IBM Functional Genomics Platform, a comprehensive database relating genotype to phenotype for bacterial life. Continually updated, the platform contains data derived from 200,000 curated, self-consistently assembled genomes. The database stores functional data for over 68 million genes, 52 million proteins, and 239 million domains with associated biological activity annotations from Gene Ontology, KEGG, MetaCyc, and Reactome. It maps the connections between each biological entity including the originating genome, gene, protein, and protein domain. We describe the data selection, the pipeline to create and update, and the developer tools.
Intermolecular Forces Game: Using a Card Game to Engage Students in Reviewing Intermolecular Forces and Their Relationship to Boiling Points

Applying concepts for intermolecular interactions (IMFs) is both important and challenging for undergraduates in chemistry-related courses. A card–discard game comparing small molecules was designe...
Surgical Treatment of Abdominal Wall Neuromas.

Neuromas are an under-recognized contributor to chronic abdominal pain. Other than after mesh inguinal hernia repair, surgical management of painful abdominal wall neuromas has not been well established in the literature. Methods All patients who underwent surgical treatment for painful abdominal wall neuromas by the senior author at Northwestern Memorial Hospital were reviewed. Patients were treated with neuroma excision and allograft nerve reconstruction and/or with targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR). Follow-up pain surveys were issued to assess pain levels, activities of daily living, and pain medication usage. Results Twenty patients met inclusion criteria. Eighteen (90%) patients reported improvement in neuropathic pain postoperatively. Two (10%) patients had TMR following failed nerve allograft reconstruction, which led to complete pain resolution. Twenty-seven nerves were treated surgically, the majority of which were abdominal intercostal (13), followed by ilioinguinal (10), genitofemoral (3), and iliohypogastric (1). Nerve allograft reconstruction was used alone for 18 procedures, in combination with TMR for 2, and TMR was used alone in 8. In all cases of TMR, the freshened nerve ending after neuroma excision was coapted to a motor nerve of the internal oblique. The mean length of follow-up was 18.9 months (SD ±14.5). Conclusions This retrospective review demonstrated that 90% (18) of the patients had significant improvement in abdominal neuroma pain postoperatively. These results may help guide providers toward effective management of abdominal wall neuropathic pain.
Working at NASA

This slide presentation reviews the author's educational and work background prior to working at NASA. It then presents an overview of NASA Dryden, a brief review of the author's projects while working at NASA, and some closing thoughts.
The background of ecology: Ecology and environment

All definitions of ecology agree that it has to do with the interrelationships of organisms and environment. The organism of greatest concern is Homo sapiens. Glacken (1967) commented that every thinker from the 5th century B.C. to the end of the 18th century A.D. had something to say about the earthly environment and humans' relation to it. There has been no letup in the 19th and 20th centuries. Indeed, concern with the environment, or broadly speaking nature, became central to human concerns (Ekirch 1963; Nash 1967; Passmore 1974; Sheail 1976). Ekirch (1963:1) wrote, “Man and nature is the basic fundamental fact of history.” Although the concept of nature has a long history and many diverse interpretations (Hepburn 1967; Kormondy 1974, 1978; Hausman 1975), the antithesis implied in Ekirch's phrase is characteristic of most traditional Western environmental thought. Nature is commonly thought of as that part of the physical world other than humanity and its constructions, and natural commonly implies phenomena taking place without human involvement. Some, like Kormondy, question the distinction but retain it as useful. Passmore wished he could avoid the word nature , describing it as “ambiguous” but also “indispensable.” In familiar usage, nature is “man's” environment and clearly has shaped “his” biological and cultural history. Stilgoe (1982) contrasted the landscape as the environment created by humans with wilderness as a threatening, evil area beyond human control, a contrast to the romantic view of wilderness.
SU-F-BRD-12: When Does Pencil Beam Scanning Become Superior to Passive Scattered Proton Therapy for Pediatric Head and Neck Cancers?

Purpose: To investigate the dosimetric benefits of pencil beam scanning (PBS) compared with passive scattered (PS) proton therapy for treatment of pediatric head&neck patients as a function of the PBS spot size and explore the advantages of using apertures in PBS. Methods: Ten pediatric patients with head&neck cancers treated by PS proton therapy at our institution were retrospectively selected. The histologies included rhabdomyosarcoma, ependymoma, astrocytoma, craniopharyngioma and germinoma. The prescribed dose ranged from 36 to 54 Gy(RBE). Five PBS plans were created for each patient using variable spot size (average sigma at isocenter) and choice of beam specific apertures: (1) 10mm spots, (2) 10mm spots with apertures, (3) 6mm spots, (4) 6mm spots with apertures, and (5) 3mm spots. The plans were optimized for intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) with no single beam uniformity constraints. Dose volume indices as well as equivalent uniform dose (EUD) were compared between PS and PBS plans. Results: Although target coverage was clinically adequate for all cases, the plans with largest (10mm) spots provide inferior quality compared with PS in terms of dose to organs-at-risk (OAR). However, adding apertures to these plans ensured lower OAR dose than PS. The average EUD difference between PBS and PS plans over all patients and organs at risk were (1) 2.5%, (2) −5.1%, (3) -5%, (4) −7.8%, and (5) −9.5%. As the spot size decreased, more conformal plans were achieved that offered similar target coverage but lower dose to the neighboring healthy organs, while alleviating the need for using apertures. Conclusion: The application of PBS does not always translate to better plan qualities compared to PS depending on the available beam spot size. We recommend that institutions with spot size larger than ∼6mm at isocenter consider using apertures to guarantee clinically comparable or superior dosimetric efficacy to PS treatments.
Evaluation of medium to low resolution satellite imagery for regional lake water quality assessments

[1] This study evaluates currently available imagery from Landsat, MERIS, MODIS, and AWiFS sensors for their usefulness in regional-scale measurements of lake water clarity and chlorophyll for comprehensive lake management and scientific studies (e.g., modeling). Images from these systems were collected nearly concurrently and processed using methods similar to those developed previously for regional assessments of lake water clarity using Landsat imagery. We tested both atmospherically corrected and uncorrected imagery products; the uncorrected products performed as well as or better than the atmospherically corrected products in empirical relationships to estimate water clarity and chlorophyll. MODIS and MERIS systems, which have large swath widths and high temporal coverage are well suited for regional assessments of large lakes, but their low spatial resolution limits the number of lakes that can be assessed. Landsat imagery allows all lakes ≥4 ha (more than 12,000 in Minnesota) to be assessed, but its low spectral resolution limits assessments to water clarity. The MERIS system, with spectral and spatial resolution suitable for large (>150 ha) lakes, was the only system with a spectral band set that measured key absorption and scattering characteristics of phytoplankton that could be used reliably for regional chlorophyll assessments. Although none of the currently available systems is ideal, the study yielded a better definition of the spectral, spatial, and temporal characteristics of the ideal system for regional-scale water quality remote sensing that may be realized in upcoming satellite systems.
The Foundation Engineering Handbook

Review of Soil Mechanics Concepts and Analytical Techniques Used in Foundation Engineering Manjriker Gunaratne In Situ Soil Testing Austin Gray Mullins Spread Footings: Analysis and Design Manjriker Gunaratne Geotechnical Design of Combined Spread Footings Manjriker Gunaratne Structural Design of Foundations Panchy Arumugasaamy Design of Driven Piles and Pile Groups Manjriker Gunaratne Design of Drilled Shafts Austin Gray Mullins Design of Laterally Loaded Piles Manjriker Gunaratne Construction Monitoring and Testing Methods of Driven Piles Manjriker Gunaratne and Austin Gray Mullins Retaining Walls: Analysis and Design Alaa Ashmawy Stability Analysis and Design of Slopes Manjriker Gunaratne Methods of Soft Ground Improvement James D. Hussin Impact of Groundwater on the Design of Earthen Structures Manjriker Gunaratne Index
Can charity and rights-based movements be allies in the fight against HIV/AIDS? Bridging mobilisations in the United States and sub-Saharan Africa

The activist-fuelled responses to HIV/AIDS around the world have resulted in unprecedented changes to the way infectious disease is defined and treated and in the mobilisation of resources for treatment in developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the communities that have been critical sources of response are widely divergent. In the United States, where the epidemic was first identified, the strongest response was within the gay community, with its attendant rights-based orientation. In sub-Saharan Africa, faith-based communities have been critical actors, and have generally taken a charity-based approach to their work. As globalisation and the successes of the global AIDS movement draw these groups into closer contact, the question of whether these divergent approaches can work in alliance becomes ever more important. In this paper I use the concepts of collective identity and framing to examine the development of both approaches and to suggest that the activity of frame extens...
EFFECTS OF PACKAGING AND POSTHARVEST TREATMENTS ON THE SHELF-LIFE QUALITY OF CROWN-CUT BROCCOLI

The effects of packaging treatments, postharvest cooling delay and storage duration on color, texture, ascorbic acid content, weight loss and glucosinolate retention in crown-cut heads of broccoli were studied. Broccoli stored in shrink wrap film lost 3.7% of its original weight, whereas ice packaging resulted in 17.4% weight loss during storage. Long postharvest cooling delay and storage duration negatively affected broccoli color. Broccoli heads stored in shrink wrap packaging retained firmness longer than broccoli stored in ice. Ascorbic acid retention was improved in shrink wrapped broccoli, but retention decreased as postharvest cooling delay and storage duration lengthened. Shrink wrapped broccoli exhibited improved retention of the glucosinolate, glucoraphanin. During storage, “Gypsy” broccoli maintained better quality than “Everest” with respect to color, ascorbic acid retention and weight loss. However, “Everest” retained texture (firmness) better after 35 days of storage. Shrink wrap packaging and shorter postharvest cooling delays preserve broccoli quality and increase shelf life. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Broccoli has the potential to be a high value crop if the shrink wrap packaging technology can be disseminated to the broccoli growers. Typically, farmers use ice for cooling broccoli heads after harvest, which is an expensive and difficult practice. Without icing requirement, broccoli marketing will be easy and opens up significant potential for broccoli producers who can afford relatively inexpensive film wrapping machines (as compared with ice equipment) in conjunction with onsite cooling. Sometimes onsite cooling is not possible and delays may be involved before the harvested produce is cooled. The conclusions reached in this study shows that shrink wrap packaging can be used to improve quality, retain phytochemical content and prolong the shelf life of crown-cut broccoli.
An Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) Approach to Control of Robotic Manipulators

In this paper, Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) is used for the controlling of a commercial robot manipulator. A Microbot [1] with three degrees of freedom is utilized to evaluate the proposed methodology. A decentralized ANFIS controller is used for each joint, with a Fuzzy Associative Memories (FAM) performing the inverse kinematics mapping in a supervisory mode. The individual fuzzy controller for each joint generates the required control signal to a DC servo motor to move the associated link to the new position. The simulation experiments indeed demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
MAXWELLIAN DISTRIBUTIONS FOR STELLAR ROTATIONS

For stars in the main-sequence band, the distributions of ‘line-widths’ V sin i are rediscussed, with the inclusion of recent measurements by Walker and Hodge for B stars, and by Preston for Ap stars. The Ap stars are counted with normal stars of the same color-class. Over the whole range from B2 to A2, the observed incidence of sharp-line stars far exceeds the incidence predicted on the hypothesis that the true rotational velocities have a Maxwellian distribution. The ‘extra’ slow rotators are probably close binary remnants, in the sense of Van den Heuvel. However, it remains unclear how to distinguish individual members of this group of stars.
THE FOUNDATION OF MORAL REASONING: THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE DOCTRINE OF UNIVERSAL MORAL PRINCIPLES IN THE WORKS OF THOMAS AQUINAS AND HIS PREDECESSORS

This article considers the development of the idea of universal moral principles in the work of Thomas Aquinas and his predecessors in the thirteenth century. Like other medieval authors who sought to place the principles of moral practice on a foundation more secure than on the choices of the good person, as described by Aristotle, Thomas chooses to introduce a measure of ethical certitude through the concept of the innate habit of synderesis. This idea, introduced by Jerome in his commentary on Ezekiel, locates an inextinguishable spark of conscience in all humans. Thomas, influenced by Philip the Chancellor and Albert the Great, locates the principles of natural law in this innate habit of synderesis. By so doing he can claim that all human beings have the ability to recognize universally binding moral imperatives, regardless of their background and societal influences. Through this natural ability the human basis for moral action found in Aristotle's Ethics yields to one based upon the eternal immutable laws of a divine being.
Jackson Pratt drain fluid-to-serum bilirubin concentration ratio for the diagnosis of bile leaks.

Background Jackson Pratt (JP) drain fluid bilirubin levels may be assayed in the evaluation of possible bile leaks. Although fluid color and bilirubin level may prompt additional evaluation, there are no reference data available. Objective To assess the JP drain fluid-to-serum bilirubin ratio in patients with documented bile leaks. Design Prospective case series. Setting Tertiary referral center. Methods Patients referred for ERCP for the management of documented bile leaks with a JP drain in place were included. Demographic data, bile leak etiology, and serum bilirubin levels were recorded. JP drain fluid was sent for color evaluation and bilirubin concentration. Control subjects included both patients after nonbiliary surgery with a JP drain in place and medical patients with ascites undergoing paracentesis. Results JP drain fluid-to-serum bilirubin concentration and fluid color evaluation was performed on 23 patients with documented bile leaks by ERCP and compared with 26 controls (16 surgical and 10 medical). The JP drain fluid/ascites-to-serum bilirubin ratio was significantly higher in those with bile leaks (mean ratio 45.6) compared with combined controls (mean ratio 0.9). Use of a cutoff JP drain fluid-to-serum bilirubin ratio of 5 would be 100% sensitive and specific for the prediction of a bile leak in the selected control group. There was overlap in fluid color evaluation between the groups. Limitations Controls did not include those with suspected bile leaks and negative technetium 99m–HIDA scintigraphy or ERCP findings. Conclusions JP drain fluid-to-serum bilirubin concentration ratio greater than 5 seems to be highly sensitive and specific for the detection of a bile leak. Used along with clinical criteria, this ratio could be used to select patients to proceed directly to ERCP.
Removal of Floating Filamentous Algae from Ponds with a Shallow Seine

Abstract Floating mats of filamentous pond algae can be skimmed effectively from the water surface with a 2-ft-deep seine.
Poor infant soothability and later insecure-ambivalent attachment: Developmental change in phenotypic markers of risk or two measures of the same construct?

Using data from the Durham Child Health and Development Study (n = 148), the current study examines the associations between child and parenting variables at 6 months and child attachment quality at 12 months of age and maternal report of child self regulation at 24 months of age. Child and parent variables predicted distinct forms of insecure attachment relationships. Observations of infant soothability during the reunion session of the Face-to-Face Still Face Paradigm at 6 months differentially predicted children with later insecure-ambivalent attachments from those with secure attachments. Observations of maternal negative intrusiveness at 6 months of age differentially predicted children with insecure-avoidant attachments from those with secure attachments. Maternal sensitivity at 6 months was associated with maternal report of child affective problems at 24 months, but this association was moderated by infant negativity during soothing and later moderated by child attachment quality. Collectively, these results suggest the following two mutually exclusive possibilities regarding infant soothability and later ambivalent attachment quality: either infant soothability is a unique and distinct predictor of later ambivalent attachment quality and this cascade represents a developmental shift in child risk during the first year of life, or that infant soothability following a stressful task at 6 months of age is itself an early indicator of ambivalent attachment behavior with the mother. The data from the current study could not provide differential support for one possibility over the other.
Hypomethylation of ras oncogenes in primary human cancers

We have examined the methylation status of two cellular oncogenes, c-Ha-ras and c-Ki-ras, in primary human carcinomas and the adjacent analogous normal tissues from which the tumors derived. The c-Ha-ras gene was hypomethylated in six of eight carcinomas, including five colonic adenocarcinomas and one small cell lung carcinoma, when compared to adjacent normal tissues. The c-Ki-ras gene was hypomethylated to a lesser extent in two colonic adenocarcinomas. This is the first demonstration of alterations in methylation of cellular oncogenes in human cancer.
Amide I Two-Dimensional Infrared Spectroscopy: Methods for Visualizing the Vibrational Structure of Large Proteins

Network layouts are introduced as a method to visualize couplings between local amide I vibrations in proteins. The method is used to identify groups of strongly coupled oscillators to block-diagonalize the Hamiltonians, considerably reducing the expense associated with computing infrared spectra of large proteins. The quality of linear and nonlinear spectra generated from block-diagonal Hamiltonians is demonstrated by comparison with spectra generated from full Hamiltonian trajectories. A library of six proteins reveals that vibrational couplings within hydrogen-bonded residues in specific secondary structures give rise to the characteristic amide I line shapes whereas other couplings play a minor role. Exciton delocalization analyses indicate that amide I vibrations in proteins remain largely localized to groups of less than ten residues.
Diffusive Hydrodynamic Limits for Systems of Interacting Diffusions with Finite Range Random Interaction

We consider a system of interacting diffusive particles with finite range random interaction. The variables can be interpreted as charges at sites indexed by a periodic multidimensional lattice. The equilibrium states of the system are canonical Gibbs measures with finite range random interaction. Under the diffusive scaling of lattice spacing and time, we derive a deterministic nonlinear diffusion equation for the time evolution of the macroscopic charge density. This limit is almost sure with respect to the random environment.
Interface reactions during preparation of aluminium-matrix composites by the sodium process

A process has been developed in which aluminium matrix composites, reinforced by either graphite or polycrystalline alumina (FP) fibres, are prepared by immersing the fibres sequentially in molten baths of sodium, tin, and aluminium. The experimental details of this process are presented, and the theory behind the process is explained. In essence, sodium wets the fibres, and is then reacted to form stable intermetallic compounds at the fibre-matrix interface; these compounds are then wetted by the aluminium. Composites with full theoretical strength can be prepared by means of this process if rayon-base graphite. Pan I graphite, or FP fibres are used. Composites containing an intimate mixture of two or more types of fibres are also possible.
Concise synthesis of L-α-phosphatidyl-D-myo-inositol 3,4-bisphosphate, an intracellular second messenger

A highly efficient, asymmetric total synthesis of the title phospholipid as well as short chain diester and cross-linkable diether analogs was achieved in six steps from the readily available cyclitol 1.
DEVELOPMENT LIFE CYCLE AND TOOLS FOR DATA EXCHANGE SPECIFICATION

In enterprise integration, a data exchange specification is an architectural artifact that evolves along with the business. Developing and maintaining a coherent semantic model for data exchange is an important, yet non-trivial, task. A coherent semantic model of data exchange specifications supports reuse, promotes interoperability, and, consequently, reduces integration costs. Components of data exchange specifications must be consistent and valid in terms of agreed upon standards and guidelines. In this paper, we describe an activity model and NIST developed tools for the creation, test, and maintenance of a shared semantic model that is coherent and supports scalable, standards-based enterprise integration. The activity model frames our research and helps define tools to support the development of data exchange specification implemented using XML (Extensible Markup Language) Schema.
The theory of fiat money and private money as alternative media of exchange

Abstract A random-matching model with a clearinghouse is constructed to investigate the impact of private money on economic efficiency and social welfare in three monetary regimes. A subset of agents, called bankers, whose credit histories are recorded by the clearinghouse, are allowed to issue private banknotes in order to consume. Those private liabilities may serve as media of exchange, either by themselves, or alongside a stock of fiat money. Under certain conditions, welfare in a monetary steady state with private money is strictly higher than that attained in a steady state where private money is prohibited.
Changes in Mitochondrial Oxygen Consumption can Associate with Increases in Total Mitochondrial Calcium

Several novel candidate proteins have recently been proposed to mediate Ca2+ transport across the mitochondrial inner membrane. In addition to elucidating the basic mitochondrial Ca2+ handling machinery, these discoveries may uncover unknown modes of regulation by Ca2+ of mitochondrial processes. During the course of our studies into the function of the newly identified candidate protein, MICU1, we were intrigued to find that intact MICU1 knockdown HeLa cells increased their oxygen consumption by ∼15% during store depletion-induced Ca2+ entry without any detectable rise in matrix free Ca2+. There was however a robust increase in total mitochondrial Ca2+, indicating effective buffering of the mitochondrial Ca2+ in knockdown cells. The oxygen consumption was then measured in both control and MICU1 knockdown HeLa cells at various [Ca2+], which caused a dose-dependent Ca2+ entry. At the lowest [Ca2+] (0.2mM CaCl2), the rise in oxygen consumption in knockdown cells exceeded that in control cells which showed an increase matrix [Ca2+]. With 1mM CaCl2 addition, the rise in oxygen consumption was similar in knockdown and control cells (∼30%). In control cells, oxygen consumption continued to rise with 10mM CaCl2 addition, whereas knockdown cells showed a tendency for a lower oxygen consumption response relative to that with 1mM CaCl2, suggesting dysfunction. For all Ca2+ concentrations, the oxygen consumption increases were entirely antimycin-sensitive, indicating a mitochondrial origin. Ca2+ addition to permeabilized knockdown cells triggered a ruthenium red-sensitive rise in oxygen consumption, confirming the mitochondrial origin and suggesting the lack of dependence on cytosolic and plasma membrane Ca2+ handling processes. Thus, mitochondrial Ca2+ influx by itself can cause stimulation of respiration. Alternatively, mitochondrial Ca2+ may be available to interact with Ca2+-sensitive proteins prior to binding to buffering species.
Social marketing of oral rehydration therapy and contraceptives in Egypt.

This article examines the antecedents activities results and prospects for institutionalization of 2 large social marketing programs in operation in Egypt: the National Control of Diarrheal Diseases Project (NCDDP) which promotes oral rehydration therapy to treat diarrheal dehydration; and the Family of the Future which is recognized as one of the most sophisticated and effective contraceptive social marketing programs operating today. The major differences between the 2 projects are related to the nature of the target behavior change: oral rehydration therapy has been welcomed while adoption of family planning has been slow. The societal beneffits of family planning are more difficult to establish. Differences in the product offering call for different marketing strategies. Comparative work in social marketing can identiffy key areas for futher research to improve the practice of social marketing.
Murine cytomegalovirus adrenalitis in athymic nude mice.

During studies of the pathogenesis of murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infection in athymic nude mice, we noted striking virus involvement of the adrenal glands. Because patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) have recently been reported to have adrenal necrosis and evidence of infection of the adrenal gland with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), we have further evaluated adrenal involvement during MCMV infection. Following virus inoculation, MCMV replicated to high titer in the adrenal glands of T-cell deficient, homozygous nude mice, but not heterozygous littermates with intact T-cell function. Concomitant with the high titers of virus, there appeared overt histological evidence of herpesvirus infection accompanied by patchy necrosis of adrenal cortical and medullary tissues. Acyclovir, which inhibits growth of MCMV, reduced virus replication in the adrenal gland. Similarly, virus replication was diminished in homozygous nude mice immunologically reconstituted by infusion of normal spleen cells three weeks prior to infection. Thus, in the absence of functioning T lymphocytes, MCMV can infect and replicate in adrenal tissues causing a progressive destructive adrenalitis.
Characteristics of the fluorescence spectra of apoenzyme and flavin portions of D-amino acid oxidase☆

Abstract The tryptophan fluorescence maxima for semiholo- and holoenzymes of D-amino acid oxidase are blue-shifted from that of the apoenzyme by 10 and 20 nm, respectively. These findings indicate that tryptophan residues of semiholo and holo forms are in a more nonpolar environment and less accessible to water than those in the apoenzyme. Overall, results suggest that some tryptophan residues may be near or at the flavin active site in D-amino acid oxidase.
Pacemaker Failure Following External Defibrillation

An 81-year-old female with the sick sinus syndrome had a permanent pacemaker implanted. She subsequently developed ventricular fibrillation and was successfully defibrillated. However, the defibrillation paddle was placed on the pulse generator which led to a complete Joss of function of the pulse generator. External defibrillation can produce varying degrees of damage to the implanted pulse generator. The resultant abnormalities are discussed and recommended defibrillation procedures are also outlined in this report. (PACE, Vol. 4, September-October, 1981)
Use of ablated stalks to assess field rates of parasitism of Diatraea saccharalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) by Cotesia flavipes (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)

Abstract We evaluated a technique that used ablated sections of corn stalks infested with larvae of Diatraea saccharalis F. to assess parasitism by Cotesia flavipes (Cameron) in a corn field. Stalkborer larvae were retrieved successfully from the artificially infested, ablated stalks for at least 96 h after deployment in the field. Levels of parasitism in ablated stalks attached to corn plants were comparable to levels of parasitism measured using whole plants that were artificially infested. Olfactometer comparisons showed preference by female C. flavipes for both whole plants and ablated stalks containing larval D. saccharalis, over uninfested stalks and plants. This technique provides a means to estimate parasitism of stalkborer larvae by C. flavipes without destructive sampling of agronomic plants.
A Retro-Analysis of I-40 Bridge Collapse on Freight Movement in the U.S. Highway Network using GIS and Assignment Models

Bridges are critical but vulnerable elements of a highway transportation system. A bridge collapse not only affects the freight movement on the bridge but also the flow in the entire network, posing negative impacts on local, regional, and national economy. This study examines the spatial and economic impact of the 2002 I-40 Bridge collapse in Oklahoma on freight flow movement in the U.S. highway network. Freight Analysis Framework (FAF) databases, TransCADTM software, and two assignment models (All-or-Nothing and User Equilibrium) are used to analyze the freight flow changes before and after the bridge collapse along with two different freight assignment approaches. The first approach assigns the origin-destination freight flow to the network with the collapsed bridge removed. The second involves two successive assignments - first by excluding the pre-hazard freight flow on the bridge and assigning the rest of the flow to the post-disaster network, and second, by assigning the freight flow on the bridge in pre-disaster conditions to the post-disaster-network. The research showed that the bridge collapse did not only impact the freight flows on nearby highway network links, but also affected flows on links further away from the bridge. This finding casts doubts on the conventional models relying on gravity-based spatial distance decay effects, which often overestimate the nearby but underestimate the further-out freight flow changes in the network.
The Vibrational Spectra of VPO5 Crystal Phases and Related Glasses

Infrared and Raman spectra were measured and interpreted for two crystalline VPO5 phases (α-and β-VPO5) and several related vanadium phosphate glasses. The spectral results for the crystalline phases were consistent with those predicted by factor group analysis using the previously determined space groups. Empirical band assignments were made for the observed bands on the basis of the bands observed earlier for related phosphate and oxyvanadium compounds. Also, the band assignments made for the infrared spectra of the glasses were consistent with the assignments for crystalline V2O5 and the two crystalline VPO5 phases. No Raman spectra were observed for the glasses because processes involving adsorption and Rayleigh scattering dominated over Raman scattering. The infrared spectra of vanadium phosphate glasses with high P2O5 concentrations possessed many features resembling those observed in the infrared spectra of α-VPO5 suggesting similarities in the short range order for the two materials. Analyses of the vibrational spectra of hydrated α-VPO5 samples suggests that the water molecules are adsorbed in the interlamellar spaces of the crystals, complexing to vanadium ions. Initial steps in the hydration of vanadium phosphate glasses apparently involve physical adsorption of water on their surfaces. No water adsorption could be detected for β-VPO5 under normal conditions from its infrared and Raman spectra.
Fe/SiO2 Nanocomposite Soft Magnetic Materials

In an effort to explore new highly resistive soft magnetic materials, Fe/SiO2 nanocomposite materials have been synthesized using a wet chemical reaction approach in which the precursor complex was annealed at various temperatures. The crystallographic structure, nanostructure, morphology, and magnetic properties of the synthetic Fe/SiO2 particles were studied by x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and magnetic measurements. The experimental results show that for this approach, the [.alpha]-Fe particles are coated with amorphous silica. The progress of the reaction, the purity of Fe/SiO2 in the synthetic powder, and the Fe particle size are highly dependent on the annealing temperature. By adjusting the annealing temperature, the particle size can be controlled from approximately 20 nm to 70 nm. For the synthetic nanopowder obtained by H2 reduction at 400 °C, there exists a superparamagnetic behavior below room temperature; while for the nanopowders obtained by reduction at higher temperatures, the ferromagnetic behavior is dominant. Based on these studies, optimum synthesis conditions for Fe/SiO2 nanocomposites is determined.