cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Literacy and Race as Risk Factors for Low Rates of Advance Directives in Older Adults

Objectives: To examine the effect of the relationship between literacy and other individual-level factors on having an advance directive (AD). Design: Face-to-face structured interview. Setting: Participants were recruited from an academic general internal medicine clinic and one of four federally qualified health centers in Chicago. Participants: Seven hundred eighty-four adults aged 55 to 74. Measurements: Assessment of participant literacy, sociodemographic factors, and having an AD for medical care. Results: One-eighth (12.4%) of participants with low literacy, 26.6% of those with marginal literacy, and 49.5% of those with adequate literacy reported having an AD (P < .001). In multivariable analyses, literacy and race were independently associated with less likelihood of having an AD. Specifically, participants with limited literacy (risk ratio (RR) = 0.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.22�0.95) and African Americans (RR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.47�0.88) were less likely to have an AD. Exploratory analyses showed that there was not a significant interaction between the effect of literacy and race. Conclusion: Limited literacy and African-American race were significant risk factors for not having an AD in this cohort of older adults. Literacy and race probably represent two separate but important causal pathways that need to be understood to improve how the healthcare system ascertains and protects individuals' advance care preferences.
Hybrid feedback stabilization of rotational–translational actuator (RTAC) system

SUMMARY A hybrid feedback control law is proposed for the RTAC system. This hybrid feedback control law is expressed in terms of a continuous feedback part and a part that includes switched parameters determined according to a logic-based switching rule. By appropriate selection of the switching rule, previous theoretical results guarantee that the origin is globally asymptotically stable. Some comments are made about the closed-loop properties, and experiments confirm that good responses are obtained for the case studied. ( 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Survival and failure patterns of high-grade gliomas after three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy

PURPOSE: The goal of three-dimensional (3-D) conformal radiation is to increase the dose delivered to tumor while minimizing dose to surrounding normal brain. Previously it has been shown that even escalated doses of 70 to 80 Gy have failure patterns that are predominantly local. This article describes the failure patterns and survival seen with high-grade gliomas given 90 Gy using a 3-D conformal intensity-modulated radiation technique. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From April 1996 to April 1999, 34 patients with supratentorial high-grade gliomas were treated to 90 Gy. For those that recurred, failure patterns were defined in terms of percentage of recurrent tumor located within the high-dose region. Recurrences with more than 95% of their volume within the high-dose region were considered central; those with 80% to 95%, 20% to 80%, and less than 20% were considered in-field, marginal, and distant, respectively. RESULTS: The median age was 55 years, and median follow-up was 11.7 months. At time of analysis, 23 (...
The Use of Biofield Therapies in Cancer Care

Biofield therapies form a subcategory of the domain of energy therapies, as defined by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Specific biofield therapies addressed in this article include Therapeutic Touch, Healing Touch, Polarity Therapy, Reiki, and Qigong. This article will identify core concepts in biofield therapies, review controlled trials of the use of biofield therapies with patients with cancer, describe the process of biofield therapies implementation in one cancer center, and suggest research to benefit not only patients with cancer but also family members and oncology professionals.
Cadmium and mercury in emergent mayflies ( Hexagenia bilineata ) from the upper Mississippi River

Burrowing mayflies (Hexagenia bilineata) were analyzed to assess longitudinal patterns in their cadmium and mercury content along the upper Mississippi River. Emergent mayflies (subimagoes and imagoes) were collected in 1988 at 34 sites (25 navigation pools), extending 1260 km from Little Falls, Minnesota, downstream to St. Louis, Missouri. Cadmium concentrations in composite samples of whole mayflies ranged from 7 to 219 ng/g dry weight in females and from <7 to 265 ng/g in males. Cadmium concentrations were highest (⩾150 ng/g) in samples from Pools 2 and 3 (downstream from the Twin Cities metropolitan area), 15 (near the Quad Cities metropolitan area), and 27 (near the St. Louis metropolitan area). Cadmium concentrations in female mayflies decreased significantly with distance downstream from Pool 2 at river mile 825 to Pool 9 at river mile 648, paralleling spatial trends in the cadmium contamination of sediments in the reach downstream from the Twin Cities metropolitan area, reported in earlier studies; cadmium burdens in mayflies followed a similar spatial trend. Concentrations of mercury were much less variable, ranging from 44 to 102 ng/g dry weight in female mayflies and from 60 to 177 ng/g in males; concentrations and burdens were highest in mayflies collected at Pools 2, 20, 22, 25, and 27. Mercury concentrations in females decreased significantly with distance downstream from Pool 2 at river mile 825 to Pool 5A at river mile 728.5. Concentrations of mercury and cadmium in composite samples of female mayflies were not correlated, indicating dissimilar longitudinal patterns in concentrations of the two metals. Concentrations and burdens of both metals varied significantly between males and females; consequently, we recommend that programs involving analyses of mayflies to survey or monitor metals in aquatic systems analyze separately males and females.
Music for community education and emancipatory learning

Collaborative music making continues to be a powerful means of facilitating group knowledge construction and emancipatory learning in communities.
Polynomial-neural-network-based mobile robot path planning

A polynomial-neural-network-based (PNN-based) path planning with an obstacle avoidance scheme is proposed for mobile robot navigation. The PNN is a feature-based mapping neural network which can be successfully trained to interpolate an unknown function by observing few samples. In this work, a very useful method of data analysis technique called the group method of data handling (GMDH) is used to build the PNN. The built PNNs are used for the path planning of a sonar sensor guided mobile robot. The major advantage of using the PNNs is to efficiently use the environment data and to reduce the computational complexity. Also, in this approach, no preprocessing of range data is required.
Handling-qualities investigation of conventional helicopter directional control characteristics

Abstract : A piloted simulation was conducted to investigate the directional-axis handling qualities of a conventional single-main-rotor/tail-rotor helicopter during the performance of low-speed ( or = 40 knots) tasks. The objectives of the experiment were to attempt to model the first-order effects that contribute to the loss of tail-rotor control that has been experienced by pilots of the OH-58 series aircraft, and to investigate handling-qualities parameters that reduce or eliminate tail-rotor-control problems in the context of the given test conditions. The aircraft configuration variables investigated were yaw damping, tail-rotor sensitivity, and directional, or weathercock, stability. Two types of yaw stability and control augmentation systems were implemented, and an engine model was included to capture the effects of rotor angular speed variations on the total yawing moment, heave-axis force, and tail-rotor thrust capability. Five pilots evaluated 10 generic tail-rotor configurations in varied wind conditions while maneuvering through a nap-of-the-Earth (NOE) corrider terminating in a confined area to a hover. Keywords: experimental design; charts.
The mixing of trace quantities into particulate solids

Abstract Based on a diffusion model, a quantitative theory is developed to describe mixing in particulate systems in which one component is present only as a trace quantity. Theoretical expressions are derived to predict the rates of mixing of essentially identical components both as spherical or as angular particles. The data are shown to agree with the predictions of the theory quite closely.
Structure and flexibility of the complete periplasmic domain of BamA: the protein insertion machine of the outer membrane.

Summary Folding and insertion of β-barrel outer membrane proteins (OMPs) is essential for Gram-negative bacteria. This process is mediated by the multiprotein complex BAM, composed of the essential β-barrel OMP BamA and four lipoproteins (BamBCDE). The periplasmic domain of BamA is key for its function and contains five "polypeptide transport-associated" (POTRA) repeats. Here, we report the crystal structure of the POTRA4-5 tandem, containing the essential for BAM complex formation and cell viability POTRA5. The domain orientation observed in the crystal is validated by solution NMR and SAXS. Using previously determined structures of BamA POTRA1-4, we present a spliced model of the entire BamA periplasmic domain validated by SAXS. Solution scattering shows that conformational flexibility between POTRA2 and 3 gives rise to compact and extended conformations. The length of BamA in its extended conformation suggests that the protein may bridge the inner and outer membranes across the periplasmic space.
Two-terminal active devices for terahertz sources

The terahertz frequency range of the electromagnetic spectrum holds great promise for many applications including sensing, imaging, and communications. However, the availability of solid-state sources with reasonable power levels is well recognized as one of the major obstacles for systems applications in this frequency range. Here, the state of the art of active two-terminal devices is reviewed and high-lighted with some exemplary experimental results. The potential, capabilities, and limitations of two-terminal devices regarding power generation at terahertz frequencies are discussed. Furthermore, a new device is described that has the potential of circumventing some of the limitations of existing devices.
The Effect of Head Injury on Family and Marital Stability

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a public health concern with implications for injured persons, families, and society. This study examines how TBI affects family and marital relationships. A retrospective survey was conducted that requested responses from relatives of head injured individuals. The mean interval between the occurrence of head injury and survey response was eight years. Responses revealed the need for support, information, and education. The implementation of a case-management system, icorporating significant roles and functions for social workers can assist families in coping with traumatic brain injury.
A quick microtechnique for inspection of potato periderm or wound periderm formation

A method for a quick inspection of wound periderm formation is described. Sections are freehand cut into a stain solution, and microscopic examination is accomplished with an epiplanatic lens.
Interpersonal Attraction As a Basis of Informal Organization

Twelve groups containing eight subjects each participated in an experiment to determine the extent to which influence, attitudes, task orientation, physical attraction, and contribution toward grou...
Estimating the manning coefficient from an average bed roughness in open channels

The Manning coefficient of roughness in open channels plays an important role in the determination of discharge by slope-area methods. It is not a constant for different depths of flow in a channel, but varies as the depth to the one-sixth power, as well as in some relation to the average height of bed roughness. Through use of the logarithmic velocity-distribution equation for flow in open channel, these relations can be evaluated. When the Manning coefficient is expressed in terms of height of channel roughness, its determination is much simplified in the field as the roughness can be estimated with considerable error without materially affecting the coefficient. As a second means of determining the Manning coefficient, the distribution of velocity in the vertical at gaging stations provides a useful tool. The logarithmic velocity-distribution equation and the Manning equation can be solved for the Manning coefficient in terms of the ratio of the velocities at two-tenths and eight-tenths the depth. The coefficient thus determined can be used in the computation of main-channel flows following floods that could not be measured by the current meter. Curves of relation between the Manning coefficient and the ratio of average depth to average height of roughness and between the coefficient and the ratio of the velocities at 0.2 and 0.8 depth are presented.
Split Ring Resonator for the Argonne Superconducting Heavy Ion Booster

A split-ring resonator for use in the ANL superconducting heavy-ion linac was constructed and is being tested. The electromagnetic characteristics of the 98-MHz device are the same as the unit described earlier, but the housing is formed of a new material consisting of niobium sheet explosively bonded to copper. The niobium provides the superconducting path and the copper conducts heat to a small area cooled by liquid helium. This arrangement greatly simplified the cryogenic system. Fabrication of the housing was relatively simple, with the result that costs have been reduced substantially. The mechanical stability of the resonator and the performance of the demountable superconducting joints are significantly better than for the earlier unit.
Gas generation from the alpha radiolysis of bitumen

Abstract Combustible gases are produced by the radiolysis of bitumen. The evolution rates and compositions of the gases have been determined experimentally. The primary gas evolved is hydrogen. Alpha radiolysis of bitumen, caused by internally incorporated plutonium, evolves more gas than does gamma radiolysis of bitumen. The amount of gas evolved in a given time can be calculated easily by using measured G(gas) values and the contamination level of the bitumen. An estimate of 1.4 for G (gas) is currently reported. The quantity of evolved gas results in some safety considerations on the use of bitumen for the encapsulation of alpha-contaminated wastes.
Photoactivation of NH2OH‐treated leaves: reassembly of released extrinsic PS II polypeptides and religation of Mn into the polynuclear Mn catalyst of water oxidation

Abstract Inactivation of the water-oxidizing enzyme by exposure of leaf segments to hydroxylamine results in a disassembly/perturbation of photosystem (PS) II extrinsic polypeptides (17>23 kDa) and solubilization of the tetra-Mn complex. Religation of the tetra-Mn complex, reassembly of these PS II extrinsic polypeptides with thylakoid membranes and reappearance of active water-oxidizing activity all require light, and all are unaffected by inhibitors of protein synthesis and photophosphorylation. The results indicate, however, that the reassembly of these PS II extrinsic polypeptides into the multimeric water oxidizing enzyme occurs more rapidly than the photoligation of Mn as the tetra-Mn complex.
On the cohomology rings of tree braid groups

Abstract Let Γ be a finite connected graph. The (unlabelled) configuration space U C n Γ of n points on Γ is the space of n -element subsets of Γ . The n -strand braid group of Γ , denoted B n Γ , is the fundamental group of U C n Γ . We use the methods and results of [Daniel Farley, Lucas Sabalka, Discrete Morse theory and graph braid groups, Algebr. Geom. Topol. 5 (2005) 1075–1109. Electronic] to get a partial description of the cohomology rings H ∗ ( B n T ) , where T is a tree. Our results are then used to prove that B n T is a right-angled Artin group if and only if T is linear or n 4 . This gives a large number of counterexamples to Ghrist’s conjecture that braid groups of planar graphs are right-angled Artin groups.
A role for MGA2, but not SPT23, in activation of transcription of ERG1 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Abstract The Saccharomyces cerevisiae MGA2 gene encodes an important regulator of unsaturated fatty acid production, by controlling transcription and mRNA stability of OLE1, the gene encoding the Δ9 fatty acid desaturase. Lipid composition studies indicated that the mga2Δ strain contains elevated relative amounts of squalene when compared to wild-type cells. The deletion of the MGA2 homologue SPT23 did not impact squalene levels. To explore the role of MGA2 in the regulation of sterol synthesis, the transcription of the ERG1 gene, which encodes squalene epoxidase, was studied using an ERG1 promoter-lacZ reporter gene construct. We report here that in addition to MGA2’s role in regulation of unsaturated fatty acids, MGA2 is required for full basal expression of ERG1. Mga2p was found to be controlled by a novel regulator in its activation of ERG1, as neither unsaturated fatty acids nor cobalt affected ERG1 expression, as had previously been shown for Mga2p’s regulation of OLE1. Further, response to miconazole treatment, which inhibits production of ergosterol at a later step in the sterol biosynthetic pathway and results in up-regulation of several genes in ergosterol synthesis, was not affected in the mga2Δ mutant. In each case, the spt23Δ mutant strain shows similar ERG1 expression to wild-type cells, while the mga2Δ/spt23Δ strain shows reduced ERG1 expression, comparable to the mga2Δ, suggesting that the role of regulation of ERG1 transcription is unique to Mga2p.
Local Decay in time of solutions to Schrödinger's equation with a dilation-analytic interaction.

For a Schrodinger operator H=−Δ+V in L2(ℝ3 with a dilation-analytic potential V decaying as r−2−e at infinity we prove that a scattering solution exp(-itH)f generically decays as t−3/2 for t→∞
Sexual Fecundity is Correlated to Size in the Lichenized Fungus Xanthoparmelia cumberlandia

There are no standard measures of fungal fitness, and yet descriptions of natural selection in fungi require an understanding of how to compare the success of two individuals. Success, or fitness, is normally understood to be a combination of survival and reproduction. Xanthoparmelia cumberlandia is a sexual, lichenized fungus. By recording the size of, and number of sexual structures on, individual lichens we demonstrate a significant correlation between size and reproductive effort in this species, showing that size is an easily measured surrogate of fitness. Published data of other lichen species, for example Umbilicaria spodochroa or Xanthoria parietina, also show a correlation between size and sexual fecundity, indicating that the correlation may be a general feature of sexual lichens. However, patterns of resource allocation differ between lichen species. Published data collected from U. spodochroa are linear, demonstrating that larger lichens allocate equivalent resources to growth and reproduction. In contrast, the data of X. cumberlandia are curved, indicating that in this species larger lichens allocate a disproportionate share of resources to reproduction.
The total number of functional cells in the cerebral cortex of man, and the percentage of the total volume of the cortex composed of nerve cell bodies, calculated from Karl Hammarberg's data; together with a comparison of the number of giant cells with the number of pyramidal fibers

I The total number of functional nerve cells in the cerebral cortex of the adult man is, in round numbers, 9200 million. II The proportion of the total volume of the cerebral cortex of the adult man composed of functional nerve cell bodies, is 1.37%. III The number of giant cells in the cerebral cortex of man is almost the same as the number of pyramidal fibers passing to the spinal cord.
Corrosion behaviour of cast and forced implant materials for artificial joints, particularly with respect to compound designs

Abstract Implants can fulfil their duty in the human body for decades only if the materials used are resistant to pitting corrosion, crevice corrosion, stress corrosion cracking and corrosion fatigue in chloride-containing body fluids. This applies especially to the new generation of compound endoprostheses. Though these combine the advantages of cast moving parts with those of forged anchorage shafts, there may be a possibility of galvanic cell formation. The susceptibility of various implant alloys to these different types of corrosion is determined, with special emphasis on the compound design of joint endoprostheses.
The gothic earthflow revisited: a chronosequence examination of colonization on a subalpine earthflow

I examine the process of plant community colonization through a chronosequence study of permanent plots spanning 45 years on a 70-year-old subalpine earthflow in south-western Colorado, USA. While local diversity and average density of vegetation remained stable throughout the study, the overall diversity increased through the early years of the study with little change over the past 20 years. A gradual shift in species composition occurred through time with species with good dispersal and stress tolerance abilities colonizing the site initially followed by more generalist species. After over 70 years the disturbed communities remained distinct from adjacent relatively undisturbed areas in diversity, density, and species composition. Soil translocation experiments suggest that it is the severe microclimate of the earthflow which is limiting further colonization of the site.
Increased yields of radical cations by arene addition to irradiated 1,2-dichloroethane

Abstract Pulse radiolysis in chlorinated hydrocarbon liquids such as 1,2-dichloroethane is a versatile and effective method for the generation of solute radical cations. The addition of a large concentration of toluene or benzene to solutions of 1,2-dichloroethane is found to increase the yield of solute radical cations (G=0.68 molecules 100 eV−1 in 1,2-dichloroethane (J. Phys. Chem. 83(15) (1979) 1944) by a factor of 2.5. The increased yield is found for solutes which have a potential of ∼1.1 V (vs. SCE) or below for the S+ /S couple and is due to reaction of the chlorine atom:toluene (π-Cl ) complex with the solute. A similar species forms with benzene. π-Cl is formed with a yield of G=3.0, and arises principally as a result of geminate recombination of ions. It has an absorption in the visible with λmax 460 nm, emax=1800 M−1 cm−1 and decays with an observed first-order rate constant k=1.12×106 s−1. The rate of reaction of the π-Cl• with added solutes ranges from 2.5 to 5×109 M−1 s−1. The other oxidant present in the 1,2-dichloroethane/toluene solutions is identified as the toluene cation dimer. This is formed from the 1,2-dichloroethane radical cation with bimolecular rate constant k=1.35×1010 M−1 s−1 with a radiation chemical yield G=0.5. The rate of reaction of this species with the added solutes is diffusion controlled, k=1–2×1010 M−1 s−1.
Stratigraphy of Beds I through IV, Olduvai Gorge, Tanganyika

Bed I at Olduvai Gorge is a conformable sequence of lava flows and varied sedimentary deposits that extend upward from a welded tuff overlying the Precambrian basement to the top of a widespread marker bed. Bed II is a sequence of lacustrine clays and laterally equivalent fluvial, eolian, and pyroclastic deposits. Bed III is made up of alluvial deposits and a laterally equivalent assemblage of fluvial, lacustrine, and eolian beds. Bed IV can be subdivided into a lower unit of fluvial clays, sandstones, and conglomerates, and an upper unit of eolian tuffs. The climate was relatively dry throughout much of the time that these beds were deposited, and semidesert or desert conditions may have prevailed at least twice. Tectonic movement seems to have taken place between the deposition of Beds III and IV.
Relational Biology and Bionics

"Relational Biology" is the name given by N. Rashevsky to an approach to biological systems in which, roughly speaking, one seeks to understand the properties of these systems in terms of a decomposition into functional components, rather than into structural components as is commonly done in (metric) biology. An approach of this type seems a most natural way of comprehending the types of organization manifested by biological systems. A number of preliminary results, typical of those obtained by relational techniques, are cited to indicate the scope and potential fruitfulness of this type of approach. The emphasis on a functional rather than a structural orientation, characteristic of Relational Biology, naturally opens the possibility for the realization of systems of biological significance at the engineering level, rather than exclusively at the molecular or biochemical level, as is the case in actual biological systems. The possibility thus arises that close analogs of real biological systems may be constructed and studied, with a resulting enrichment both of our understanding of biological systems in themselves, and of our techniques for the simulation of important biological processes in engineering applications. Some theoretical problems connected with the realizability of abstract functional organizations, which are connected with the above possibilities, are here briefly outlined and discussed.
Button-Loop Feeding Jejunostomy

Post-pyloric feeding via a surgical jejunostomy allows for enteral nutrition in patients that cannot receive oral or gastric feeding. Regardless of the technique used to create a jejunostomy, complications such as tube dislodgement, jejunostomy closure, or bowel obstruction can occur. We present a simple and efficient jejunostomy technique that does not require a sewn anastomosis and employs an easily exchangeable feeding button.
Low surface temperature synthesis and characterization of diamond thin films

Polycrystalline diamond films are deposited on p-type Si(100) and n-type SiC(6H) substrates at low surface deposition temperatures of 370–530 °C using a microwave plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (MPECVD) system. The surface temperature during deposition is monitored by an IR pyrometer capable of measuring temperature between 250 and 600 °C in a microwave environment. The lower deposition temperature is achieved by using an especially designed cooling stage. The influence of the deposition conditions on the growth rate and structure of the diamond film is investigated. A very high growth rate up to 1.3 μm/h on SiC substrate at 530 °C surface temperature is attributed to an optimized Ar-rich Ar/H2/CH4 gas composition, deposition pressure, and microwave power. The structure and microstructure of the films are characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. A detailed stress analysis of the deposited diamond films of grain sizes between 2 and 7 μm showed a net tensile residual stress and predominantly sp3-bonded carbon in the deposited films.
Common Schools and Multicultural Education

Common schooling and multicultural education intuitively seem to be mutually reinforcing and possibly even mutually necessary: each is motivated by and/or serves the aims of promoting social justice and equality, common civic membership, and mutual respect and understanding, among other goals. An examination of the practical relationship between the two, however, reveals that neither one is a necessary or sufficient condition for achieving the other; in fact, each may in fairly common circumstances make the other harder to achieve. In other words, there is no direct instrumental relationship between multicultural education and common schools. Nor is there a clear expressive relationship between the two. Although common schools may serve as explicit, public symbols of our multicultural civic commitment to diversity, mutual respect and egalitarian inclusiveness, many demographically common schools neglect or even betray multicultural ideals, while many restricted entry and even segregated schools may express these ideals better than most comprehensive and integrated schools. Hence, while multicultural education and common schooling do intuitively stand for similar, mutually reinforcing ideals, in practice they may be linked more closely in the confusions and dilemmas of implementation they both raise than in their mutual realisation.
Endobutton fixation of hamstring tendon grafts

Abstract The EndoButton (Acufex, Mansfield, MA) is one of many devices available for hamstring or patellar tendon graftfemoral fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructive surgery. The strengths and weaknesses of the device are discussed. Recent modifications to the device and the operative technique may improve its effectiveness.
Genital injuries from mating in the mare

Minor accidents during natural mating are common occurrences during the breeding of horses. Mares may suffer from a variety of genital injuries including vulval separations, vaginal lacerations and, less commonly, vaginal rupture. Possible sequelae to, and management of, these injuries are described, with additional mention of false entry by the stallion and persistent hymen in maiden mares. Vaginal rupture during natural mating can lead to death of the mare. The implications for litigation involving veterinary surgeons and horse breeders are discussed.
An Inflection Point Method for the Determination of Pulmonary Transit Time From Contrast Echocardiography

Objective: Indicator-dilution curves (IDCs) for the estimation of pulmonary transit times (PTTs) can be generated noninvasively using contrast echocardiography. Currently, these IDCs are analyzed by manual inspection, which is not feasible in a clinical setting, or fit to a statistical model to derive parameters of interest. However, IDCs generated from patients are frequently subject to significant low-frequency noise and recirculation artifacts that obscure the first-pass signal and render model fitting impractical or inaccurate. Thus, the objective of this paper was to develop alternative computational methods to determine PTT using noisy clinical data in which the signal decay is not adequately visible. Methods: We report on a method that uses a model fit to the rise portion of the IDCs to determine the signal inflection point. Additionally, a signal truncation algorithm was developed that enables automated analysis of the IDCs. Results: We compare PTTs derived from our inflection point method to those obtained by manual inspection in 25 patients ( $R^{2} = 0.86$ ) and to those obtained by mean transit time calculation following fitting to a local density random walk model ( $R^{2} = 0.80$ ) in a subset of this cohort. Conclusion: Combined with a signal truncation algorithm, the inflection point method provides robust, automated determination of PTT from noisy IDCs containing recirculation artifacts. Significance: The inflection point method addresses the need for computational analysis of IDCs obtained from contrast echocardiograms that are not amenable to first-pass model fitting.
N6-methyl-adenosine modification in messenger and long non-coding RNA

N6-methyl-adenosine (m6A) is the most abundant modification in mammalian mRNA and long non-coding RNA. First discovered in the 1970s, m6A modification has been proposed to function in mRNA splicing, export, stability, and immune tolerance. Interest and excitement in m6A modification has recently been revived based on the discovery of a mammalian enzyme that removes m6A and the application of deep sequencing to localize modification sites. The m6A demethylase fat mass and obesity associated protein (FTO) controls cellular energy homeostasis and is the first enzyme discovered that reverses an RNA modification. m6A Sequencing demonstrates cell-type- and cell-state-dependent m6A patterns, indicating that m6A modifications are highly regulated. This review describes the current knowledge of mammalian m6A modifications and future perspectives on how to push the field forward.
Teaching energy awareness by computer simulation

Abstract Energy awareness simulations are developed to demonstrate how rapidly our energy reserve is depleted, how quickly and enormously our demand for energy grows, and how important energy conservation is to us. The students find the computer simulation very interesting and innovative throughout. An understanding of the current and future energy situations as well as an awareness of global energy resource limitations is therefore achieved. Further, this demonstration stimulates students' interest in the energy conversion field.
Public Administration and the Life Sciences: Revisiting Biopolitics

Biopolitics applies methodology from the life sciences to study human behavior and policy related to living things. Although Gulick introduced the concept to public administration more than 25 years ago, it remains nearly absent in the public administration literature. This article reintroduces the origin, concepts, and methodology of biopolitics and explores its application to public administration but also suggests that a public administration perspective would be a valuable contribution in return.
Interferometric study of transient diffusion layers

Abstract Transient refractive-index fields in stagnant CuSO4 solutions were measured by double beam interferometry during the galvanostatic deposition of copper. Concentration profiles in the electrolyte have been derived from the interferograms by correcting for optical aberrations caused by beam deflection and reflection. The time-dependent concentration profiles are in good agreement with those derived from a solution of the diffusion equation in which the concentration dependence of diffusivity is taken into account.
Effect of magnetic field on reduction of iron oxides: magnetite and wüstite

A STRONG magnetic field (500–1,400 Oe) was reported by Skorski1 to cause an increase in the reduction rate of haematite (Fe2O3) to metallic iron when H2 was used as the reducing agent. This effect was attributed to the magnetic properties of the H2, because neither CH4 nor CO produced a similar increase when under the influence of a strong magnetic field. Although Svare2 disputed this explanation, Peters3 offered an alternative one, based on thermodynamics, which indicated that an increase in reaction rate is expected under the influence of a strong magnetic field when the reactants were relatively non-magnetic and the products were strongly magnetic—as with reduction of haematite to iron. We report here our results of studying magnetite and wustite reduction to iron, which show an increased reduction rate for magnetite, under the influence of a strong magnetic field, but an inexplicably decreased rate for the wustite reduction.
Ductile-phase toughening in V-V3Si in situ composites

This article describes the room-temperature fracture behavior of ductile-phase-toughened V-V3Si in situ composites that were produced by arc melting (AM), cold-crucible induction melting (IM), and cold-crucible directional solidification (DS). Composites were produced containing a wide range of microstructures, interstitial impurity contents, and volume fractions of the ductile V-Si solid solution phase, denoted (V). The fracture toughness of these composites generally increases as the volume fraction of (V) increases, but is strongly influenced by the microstructure, the mechanical properties of the component phases, and the crystallographic orientation of the (V) phase with respect to the maximum principal stress direction. For eutectic composites that have a (V) volume fraction of about 50 pct, the fracture toughness increases with decreasing “effective” interstitial impurity concentration, [I]=[N]+1.33 [O]+9 [H]. As [I] decreases from 1400 ppm (AM) to 400 ppm (IM), the fracture toughness of the eutectic composites increases from 10 to 20 MPa √m. Further, the fracture toughness of the DS eutectic composites is greater when the crack propagation direction is perpendicular, rather than parallel, to the composite growth direction. These results are discussed in light of conventional ductile-phase bridging theories, which alone cannot fully explain the fracture toughness of V-Si in situ composites.
An efficient rinsing procedure for 10 mm cell culture inserts prior to coculture studies

A goal of our laboaatory is to define putative intercellular communication mechanisms between myofibers and adipocytes. In pursuit of this objective we established a co-culture system incorporating commercially available microporous cell culture inserts. These cell culture inserts provide separation of cells bathed in a common media environment. Isolation and evaluation of the conditioned media from such systems allows detection of autocrine or paracrine agent production by either cell type. However, the process of rinsing cells plated on inserts prior to initiating co-culture may damage insert integrity and may dilute (added) defined treatment medium by introducing residual rinse medium. We have developed a method to rinse microporous membrane inserts before the addition of defined treatment medium. This rinsing technique decreases damage to inserts and reduces the volume of residual medium on all physical aspects of the insert.
Radial approach: a new concept in surgical treatment for atrial fibrillation. II. Electrophysiologic effects and atrial contribution to ventricular filling.

Abstract Background . In a previous study the atrial incisions that follow the concept of the radial approach were designed according to the activation sequence during sinus rhythm and the atrial coronary artery anatomy in normal dogs. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the radial approach provides a more physiologic activation sequence and atrial transport function than the maze procedure. Methods . Ten dogs that had undergone the radial approach (n = 5) or the maze procedure (n = 5) were studied 6 weeks postoperatively. Sinus node function and inducibility of atrial fibrillation were examined before and after operation. The atria were mapped endocardially with 212 electrodes, and atrial activation sequences during sinus rhythm and right atrial pacing were examined. Atrial transport function was assessed by transepicardial Doppler echocardiography. Results . No dogs developed sinus node dysfunction postoperatively. Both the radial approach and the maze procedure equally prevented sustained atrial fibrillation. The atrial activation sequence was more synchronous after the radial approach than after the maze procedure. There was no electrically isolated region after the radial approach. The total activation time of the left atrium was significantly shorter after the radial approach than after the maze procedure (53.6 ± 9.8 versus 70.5 ± 9.6 ms, p p p Conclusions . The radial approach provides a more synchronous activation sequence and atrial transport function, and thus may represent a more physiologic alternative to the maze procedure as a surgical treatment for atrial fibrillation.
Cardiac performance in thyrotoxicosis: Analysis of 10 untreated patients

This study attempts to define cardiac performance at rest and during exercise in patients with untreated thyrotoxicosis. We studied 7 women and 3 men, aged 23 to 59 years (40 ± 10, mean ± standard deviation [SD]) and compared the results with those obtained in 12 normal subjects. In patients with thyrotoxicosis, the rhythm was sinus and the only untoward symptom was palpitations; the resting electrocardiographic results were normal in 8 patients and showed left ventricular hypertrophy in 2 patients; the left ventricular ejection fraction and volumes (measured by radionuclide ventriculography) were normal at rest. During exercise, 1 patient had dyspnea and 7 had leg fatigue; 2 were asymptomatic. Also, 7 patients had ≥5% increase in left ventricular ejection fraction, 2 had no change, and 1 had a decrease. In all 10 patients, the exercise ejection fraction was ≥60%. All normal subjects had a ≥5% increase in ejection fraction during exercise. There were no significant differences at rest between patients with thyrotoxicosis and normal subjects in blood pressure, ejection fraction, end-diastolic volume, stroke volume, end-systolic volume, or cardiac output, but the heart rate was significantly higher in patients with thyrotoxicosis (91 ± 10 versus 80 ± 12 beats/min, p Cardiac performance is normal at rest in patients with thyrotoxicosis, but during exercise abnormal left ventricular reserve occurs in some patients .
Query Chem: a Google-powered web search combining text and chemical structures

Summary: Query Chem (www.QueryChem.com) is a Web program that integrates chemical structure and text-based searching using publicly available chemical databases and Google's Web Application Program Interface (API). Query Chem makes it possible to search the Web for information about chemical structures without knowing their common names or identifiers. Furthermore, a structure can be combined with textual query terms to further restrict searches. Query Chem's search results can retrieve many interesting structure--property relationships of biomolecules on the Web. Contact: Klekota@gmail.com
Releasing YAP From an α-Catenin Trap Increases Cardiomyocyte Proliferation

Adult mammalian cardiomyocytes possess little endogenous proliferative capacity. This innate limitation underlies our inability to reverse heart failure and improve patient outcome after myocardial injury. The mechanisms that restrict adult mammalian cardiomyocyte proliferation have been the intensely scrutinized, and molecular insights are slowly emerging.1 In this issue of Circulation Research , Li et al2 add an important new insight by showing that α-catenins, components of cardiomyocyte intercellular junctions, restrain the mitogenic transcriptional coactivator Yes-associated protein (YAP) and thereby inhibit cardiomyocyte proliferation. Article, see p 70 Intercalated disks mechanically couple cardiomyocytes. Located on the ends of adult mammalian cardiomyocytes, intercalated disks are composed of 2 kinds of adherens junctions, fasciae adherens and desmosomes, interspersed with gap junctions (Figure). In epithelia, such as skin, desmosomes and fasciae adherens constitute physically and molecularly distinct complexes. Epithelial fasciae adherens contain classical cadherins, transmembrane adhesion receptors that mediate cell–cell adhesion through homotypic interactions. The cytoplasmic tails of cadherins interact with catenins (αE-catenin [ Ctnna1 ], β-catenin [ Ctnnb1 ], and γ-catenin [ Jup , also known as plakoglobin]), which bind the actin cytoskeleton. Analogously, epithelial desmosomes contain desmosomal cadherins (desmoglein and dsmocollin), which interact with γ-catenin (the only protein common to fasciae adherens and desmosomes) and plakophilin. These connect to intermediate filaments through desmoplakin and other plakin family proteins. In heart, the distinction between these 2 types of adherens junctions is blurred: mature mammalian intercalated disks contain hybrid junctional complexes containing proteins characteristic of each type of junction, and hence have been referred to as area composita, with local variations yielding regions with more desmosome, or more fascia adherens-like characteristics.3 Cardiac intercalated disks contain 2 α-catenin isoforms: the widely expressed αE-catenin and the cardiac-restricted αT-catenin ( Ctnna3 ). Interestingly, αT-catenin may contribute to the formation of the hybrid area composita because it interacts with …
Measurement and use of postoperative anterior chamber depth of fellow eye in refractive outcomes

Purpose To compare refractive outcomes using fellow-eye postoperative anterior chamber depth (ACD) in intraocular lens (IOL) power calculations with outcomes obtained without fellow-eye data and to assess postoperative ACD stability. Setting Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. Design Consecutive case series. Methods The main outcome measures were the optimized median absolute error (MedAE) and ACD at postoperative day 1 and postoperative month 1 measured by optical biometry. A program using the Olsen IOL power formula predicted the postoperative ACD and refractive outcomes and calculated theoretical refractive outcomes of inputting fellow-eye ACD at postoperative day 1 and postoperative month 1. Theoretical results were subtracted from the observed manifest refraction and then optimized. Calculations were repeated for the other eye. Results In 102 paired eyes, the MedAE was 0.32 diopter (D) (interquartile range, 25% to 75%; range 0.12 to 0.54 D) for Olsen (without fellow-eye data), 0.33 D (range 0.20 to 0.57 D) using fellow-eye postoperative day 1 ACD, and 0.28 D (range 0.13 to 0.51 D) using fellow-eye postoperative month 1 ACD, with a significant difference between the latter 2 MedAE values (P Conclusions Use of the fellow-eye postoperative month 1 ACD predicted refractive outcomes better than postoperative day 1 ACD. In eyes with a larger Olsen absolute error, use of either postoperative ACD from the fellow eye would have yielded better results. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
Soybean biodiesel : Instability reactions

It has been suggested that renewable energy sources be considered as replacements for middle distillate ground transportation and marine fuels. It is vital for the operational considerations of these fuels to investigate the many positives and negatives of incorporating these renewable energy sources in such systems. In proposing such a replacement, considerations must be given to the many problems that could arise including fuel storage stability, fuel solubility, oxidative stability, and seawater stability. Contrary to air environments, water environments have a pH factor that has to be considered. United States Navy shipboard fuel tanks compensate for diminishing fuel by the addition of seawater to the fuel tank. It was found that this would lead to fuel instability problems such as filter stoppage and other serious engine damage. Studies were performed to determine what in the soybean-derived biodiesels led to the observed fuel degradation.
EVIDENCE FOR THE LINKAGE OF THE IGCH LOCUS TO A GENE CONTROLLING THE IDIOTYPIC SPECIFICITY OF ANTI-p-AZOPHENYLARSONATE ANTIBODIES IN STRAIN A MICE

Anti-p-azophenylarsonate (anti-Ar) antibodies elicited in all strain A/J mice tested share one or more idiotypic specificities. These specificities are also found in the anti-Ar antibodies of mice of the closely related strain, AL/N, but not in those of BALB/c mice. Anti-Ar antibodies were elicited in congenic mice in which the IgCH locus of AL/N mice, which controls allotypic markers in the constant regions of heavy chains, had been introgressively backcrossed for nine generations onto a BALB/c background; the mice were then rendered homozygous for the AL/N allotypic determinant. On the average, these antibodies were quantitatively equivalent, with respect to content of the cross-reactive idiotype, to those of AL/N mice. This indicates that the gene controlling the idiotype is closely linked to the IgCH locus. Since idiotype must be a function of V region sequences, the results suggest close linkage of VH and CH genes. The cross-reactive idiotype was found in nearly all F1 mice (C57/BL x A/J or BALB/c x A/J) tested.