cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biomimetic model of a sponge-spicular optical fiber—mechanical properties and structure

Nanomechanical properties, nanohardness and elastic modulus, of an Antarctic sponge Rosella racovitzea were determined by using a vertical indentation system attached to an atomic force microscope. The Rosella spicules, known to have optical waveguide properties, are 10–20 cm long with a circular cross section of diameter 200–600 μm. The spicules are composed of 2–10-μm-thick layers of siliceous material that has no detectable crystallinity. Measurements through the thickness of the spicules indicated uniform properties regardless of layering. Both the elastic modulus and nanohardness values of the spicules are about half of that of either fused silica or commercial glass optical fibers. The fracture strength and fracture energy of the spicules, determined by 3-point bend tests, are several times those of silica rods of similar diameter. These sponge spicules are highly flexible and tough possibly because of their layered structure and hydrated nature of the silica. The spicules offer bioinspired lessons for potential biomimetic design of optical fibers with long-term durability that could potentially be fabricated at room temperature in aqueous solutions.
Measurement of household food security in the USA and other industrialised countries.

Abstract Objective: To describe the history and current status of household food security measurement.Conclusions:In the 1980s evidence of rising levels of hunger was a concern for many, but disputed by some, Americans. Acknowledgement and quantification of hunger was hindered by the lack of an accepted definition and measure of hunger. Qualitative research at Cornell provided a conceptual framework, description, definition and survey items for hunger. The Community Childhood Hunger Identification Project developed an instrument used in numerous communities. Based upon these initiatives, widely accepted definitions of hunger and food insecurity, and the US Household Food Security Module for its measurement, now exist. The module classifies households as food-secure, or food-insecure without hunger or with moderate or severe hunger, and contains household-, adult- and child-referent items. Its inclusion in the Current Population Survey (CPS) since 1995 has yielded annual estimates of food insecurity. A six-item short form of the module, for surveys with severe time constraints, classifies households only as food-secure or food-insecure without or with hunger and contains no child-specific items. Surveys using the 18-item or short-form module can compare results with published national data from the CPS. Information about the module is available at http://www.ers.usda.gov/briefing/foodsecurity and http://www.fns.usda/fsec. Current research on food security measurement includes measurement of individual food insecurity and hunger, module performance regarding hunger duration and frequency, performance of the module in population subgroups, and the effect of translations on module meaning and performance. National surveys in Canada, New Zealand and Australia also have measured food security.
On the domain of attraction for steady states in heat conduction

Abstract Energy methods are employed to obtain information on the domain of attraction of steady state solutions to a class of heat conduction problems with nonlinear heat generation. Essential use is made of an inequality of Sobolev type, which may be of interest beyond the present context.
Asymmetric dominance as a potential source of bias in hedonic testing

Abstract A large and growing body of evidence from marketing and behavioral economics suggests consumer preferences are not fixed but instead depend on the choice set. Although the idea that context alters perception is not new to psychophysicists or sensory scientists, we suggest that asymmetric dominance may represent a novel and potentially important source of bias in hedonic product testing and food choice research. In a series of six experiments using model systems, commercially available beverages and solid foods, we explored the possibility that asymmetric dominance effects may influence the results of food preference testing. Within a model system (experiments 1–3), we failed to observe evidence of a bias arising from asymmetric dominance. In contrast, when perceptually complex beverages and foods were used (experiments 4–6), we found relative preference was altered by the introduction of an additional product into the choice set. Critically, we found this bias was able to induce a significant preference (experiments 4–5) or make a significant preference disappear (experiment 6). Implications of this potential source of bias are discussed in a context relevant to sensory scientists and product developers.
Management of Extracranial Carotid Artery Disease

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in developed nations. Up to 88% of strokes are ischemic in nature. Extracranial carotid artery atherosclerotic disease is the third leading cause of ischemic stroke in the general population and the second most common nontraumatic cause among adults younger than 45 years. This article provides comprehensive, evidence-based recommendations for the management of extracranial atherosclerotic disease, including imaging for screening and diagnosis, medical management, and interventional management.
Nitric oxide: a newly discovered function on wound healing

Wound healing impairment represents a particularly challenging clinical problem to which no efficacious treatment regimens currently exist. The factors ensuring appropriate intercellular communication during wound repair are not completely understood. Although protein-type mediators are well-established players in this process, emerging evidence from both animal and human studies indicates that nitric oxide (NO) plays a key role in wound repair. The beneficial effects of NO on wound repair may be attributed to its functional influences on angiogenesis, inflammation, cell proliferation, matrix deposition, and remodeling. Recent findings from in vitro and in vivo studies of NO on wound repair are summarized in this review. The unveiled novel mechanisms support the use of NO-containing agents and/or NO synthase gene therapy as new therapeutic regimens for impaired wound healing.
Cyclo­(alanine-4-hydroxy­proline)

The title compound, 2-hydroxy-6-methyl-1,2,3,5,6,7,8,8a-octa­hydro-7-aza­indolizine-5,8-dione, C8H12N2O2, is bicyclic. The six-membered ring has a boat configuration. The five-membered ring shares one of the prow points and is hinged towards the open part of the boat. Together the rings appear to adopt a slight dish shape. The methyl group is on the open-dish side and the hydroxyl group is trans to it. Hydro­gen bonds in the crystal knit mol­ecules into corrugated layers.
Automatic Validation of Java Page Flows Using Model-Based Coverage Criteria

There continue to be advances in the automation of Web application development, however testing these applications remains mainly a manual process. In this paper we present a methodology to test page flows using traditional test coverage criteria in conjunction with an automated testing tool. The criteria is applied in the context of page flows and transformed into: All Pages, All Actions, All Links, and All Forwards. We define a state-based model of the application using information from the page flow and then use this model as the basis for generating a script to be executed by the automated testing tool. This finite state machine (FSM) also models the various combinations of inputs associated with the user interface of the application. During execution of the script, test cases are randomly generated using the FSM along with textual input from a pre-defined data pool. The adequacy of the test coverage based on the criteria for the page flow is determined by analyzing the elements covered during execution of the test script.
Packet Dropping Algorithms for Energy Savings

This paper investigates proactive packet dropping to achieve transmission energy savings. Such a scheme can be employed for applications which can tolerate a small fraction of packet losses. For a group of packets subject to a single transmission deadline, the optimal dropping scheme (vis-` a-vis total transmission energy) is derived. For packets subject to individual delay constraints, the optimal scheme depends on the energy function and packet sizes. Thus, asymptotically optimal dropping schemes, i. e., when packet size grows large, are pursued. The asymptotically optimal dropping scheme for a single dropped packet is obtained. For dropping more than one packet, two suboptimal, recursive schemes are proposed. These schemes achieve performance very close to the asymptotically optimal schemes as determined by an exhaustive search. Additionally, two performance bounds are derived. It is observed via simulations that significant energy savings are possible via intelligent packet dropping schemes.
Design and Implementation of a Distributed Content-based Notification Broker for WS-Notification

We describe an implementation based on the WS-Notification (WSN) specification for Publish/Subscribe communication which provides a distributed, content-based notification service. The implementation is based on a distributed hashtable (DHT) built on a structured overlay of peer nodes. The entire system acts as a notification broker, so that notification producers and consumers that make use of the network can achieve loosely-coupled communication with a decentralized, scalable service. We develop and evaluate self-optimizing behavior built to reduce notification traffic within the network.
A horse in zebra stripes: a peculiar case of undetected end-stage AIDS

Abstract Objective Late HIV diagnosis occurs in up to 45% of new HIV cases in the developed world and is linked to worse health outcomes, including more hospitalizations, higher health care resource utilization and less robust responses to highly active antiretroviral therapy. Method Case report Results A 70-year-old woman with an obscure constellation of medical and psychiatric complaints ultimately proved to have end-stage acquired immunodeficiency syndrome discovered much too late. Curiously, she had no obvious risk factors for HIV infection. Conclusion This tragic case underscores the importance of keeping HIV infection in the differential for a patient with diverse vague complaints. Let this story caution its readers: when you hear hoof beats, do not look for zebras — even when you are least expecting a horse.
Multicomponent treatment for food selectivity in children: description and case report.

Background: Food selectivity is common in children with and without developmental disabilities and can have negative implications for nutrition intake and family quality of life. The evidence base for effective treatment protocols is still developing. Methods: The purpose of this study was to describe a pilot, multicomponent treatment protocol for food selectivity and present several case examples using a retrospective chart review. Elements in the treatment manual included sensory integration and behavioral modification strategies, including systematic desensitization. Also, parents were educated on factors associated with food selectivity and strategies for increasing food acceptance during family meals. Results: Four children with food selectivity demonstrated increased food acceptance of previously refused foods. Incidence of negative behaviors, including gagging, vomiting, and aggressive behavior (eg, hitting, batting away spoon), during clinical meals was also evaluated. No aggressive behavior or vo...
Parallel Growing SOM Monitored by Genetic Algorithm

Genetic algorithms are an effective search technique to utilize when the search space of a problem is very large and an unintelligent brute-force search is too time-consuming. One such problem that would benefit from a genetic algorithm is the optimization of the ParaGSOM, a Self-Organizing Map that processes the input space in parallel. The ParaGSOM has several parameters that can be configured with a wide range of possible values. Each of these parameters can significantly change the behavior of the ParaGSOM, depending on the value. These behavioral changes will affect the ParaGSOM's ability to adapt to the input space, leading to anything from a fast convergence to a slow convergence to no convergence at all. Applying a genetic algorithm to determine the optimal parameters to use for fast, accurate convergence in the ParaGSOM yields results much faster than testing each parameter combination individually. A genetic algorithm gives insight about how particular parameter combinations affect the network and shows how their relationships can be exploited for maximum efficiency of the ParaGSOM.
Channel Estimation and Equalization Techniques in Downsampled ARQ Systems

In this paper, we study channel estimation and equalization for a class of bandwidth efficient automatic repeat request (ARQ) systems. In these systems, retransmissions achieve bandwidth efficiency through symbolwise downsampling. Unlike a standard ARQ scheme, in which an erroneous packet is fully repeated, more sophisticated hybrid ARQ systems retransmit a recoded data packet. However, many of these ARQ schemes do not consider the integration of ARQ protocols with receiver signal processing such as channel estimation and signal detection. In this paper, we present a joint multichannel estimation algorithm that exploits the structure of a symbolwise downsampled ARQ equipped network. We show that this new method can improve the identifiability conditions for channel estimation as well as the overall system performance
Characterization of the Sulfur Mustard Vapor Induced Cutaneous Lesions on Hairless Guinea Pigs

The identification of antivesicant compounds has been hindered by the lack of a suitable in vivo model. Our laboratory has been evaluating the hairless guinea pig as a useful animal model to mimic the human cutaneous response to sulfur mustard (HD) exposure. The characterization of two cutaneous responses to HD, quantification of erythema using a reflectance color meter, and pathology by light microscopy, is described in this manuscript. Fifty-two hairless guinea pigs were exposed to saturated HD vapor using a vapor cup technique. The dose response of HD vapor was established by varying the duration (2–11 min) of skin exposure to an HD vapor concentration of 0.77 g/m3 under occluded caps. The degree of erythema was determined by measuring the increase in the reflectance meter's a (relative parameter measuring the degree of redness) response for each exposure site at 4, 5, 6, and 24-h postexposure. A linear increase in erythema was observed between the 2– and 4-min HD exposure doses for each post HD observ...
The Impact of Electronic Finding Aids on Interlibrary Loan : Desperately Seeking Full-Text

The Auburn University Montgomery Library began a subscription to the Serials Solutions E-Journal Portal in summer 2002 as an electronic finding aid for patrons and library staff. The result was a decrease in interlibrary loan requests for materials already available in the Library's subscribed databases. With the addition of Article Linker in 2005, a further reduction in such requests occurred due to the ease with which users could retrieve articles. We expect that the expansion of openURL compliant databases, covered by Article Linker, will continue this trend. It will allow users to order only materials not locally held or available online.
Rain-forests and geothermal energy in Hawaii : environmental concerns expose flawed state planning-process

Protests and legal challenges have marked the past seven years of geothermal energy development in Hawaii. Environmentalists seeking to block geothermal development in Hawaiian rain-forests have used legal and civil disobedience tactics to delay development. These are the types of actions which the Hawaii State Legislature sought to avoid when it passed the State's Geothermal Subzone Act in 1983.
Oral Colonization and Pathogenicity of Actinomyces israelii in Gnotobiotic Rats

Reference strains of A. israelii were orally implanted in germ-free rats after multiple inoculations. Early colonization was associated with areas of interdental hair and bedding impactions. Largest populations of organisms were isolated from teeth, as compared to the tongue, cheek, or palate. Examination of molar teeth with the scanning electron microscope revealed bacterial accumulations in the occlusal fissures, but not on smooth or approximal surfaces. Extensive plaque formation after 100-150 d was accompanied by root-surface caries and bacterial invasion of the pulp. There was no evidence of bacterial penetration of the dentin underlying surface enamel.
Public health issues concerning the widespread distribution of canine heartworm disease

Heartworms can cause serious cardiopulmonary disease in their canid hosts. Canine heartworm has become widespread in many parts of the world, and its range continues to expand. Wildlife reservoirs play a role in perpetuation and transmission of this parasite to dogs. Human heartworm infection is incidental and is typically not associated with severe clinical disease; however, because no serological test is readily available, patients must undergo invasive procedures to differentiate heartworm from other more serious diseases. Human cases have been reported mainly in areas of high canine prevalence, highlighting the importance of heartworm testing and chemoprophylaxis in all dogs to reduce transmission. Future efforts should focus on the development of a non-invasive diagnostic test for people, and on epidemiological surveys for both animals and people.
INDIVIDUAL MOUSE ALPHA -FETOPROTEIN ENHANCER ELEMENTS EXHIBIT DIFFERENT PATTERNS OF TISSUE-SPECIFIC AND HEPATIC POSITION-DEPENDENT ACTIVITIES

Transcription of the mouse alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) gene, which is expressed at high levels in the visceral endoderm of the yolk sac and fetal liver and at low levels in the fetal gut, is regulated by three distinct upstream enhancer regions. To investigate the activities of these regions, each enhancer was individually linked to a heterologous human beta-globin promoter fused to the mouse class I H-2Dd structural gene. When tested in transgenic mice, the beta-globin promoter alone has minimal activity. We find that all three enhancers activate the beta-globin promoter in an AFP-like pattern; i.e., activity is detected in the yolk sac, fetal liver, and fetal gut. The enhancers remain active in the livers and guts of adult mice, consistent with previous studies showing that postnatal AFP repression is due not to the loss of enhancer activity but to a dominant repressor region. Enhancer III also functions in the brain. In addition, these studies reveal that the three enhancers exhibit different position-dependent activities in the adult liver. Enhancers I and II are most active in hepatocytes surrounding the central vein, with a gradual decrease in activity along the hepatic plates toward the portal triad. Enhancer III is active exclusively in hepatocytes surrounding the central vein. These data represent the first examples of individual control elements exhibiting positionally regulated activity in adult liver.
Image flow segmentation and estimation by constraint line clustering

Image flow is the velocity field in the image plane caused by the motion of the observer, objects in the scene, or apparent motion, and can contain discontinuities due to object occlusion in the scene. An algorithm that can estimate the image flow velocity field when there are discontinuities due to occlusions is described. The constraint line clustering algorithm uses a statistical test to estimate the image flow velocity field in the presence of step discontinuities in the image irradiance or velocity field. Particular emphasis is placed on motion estimation and segmentation in situations such as random dot patterns where motion is the only cue to segmentation. Experimental results on a demanding synthetic test case and a real image are presented. A smoothing algorithm for improving the velocity field estimate is also described. The smoothing algorithm constructs a smooth estimate of the velocity field by approximating a surface between step discontinuities. It is noted that the velocity field estimate can be improved using surface reconstruction between velocity field boundaries. >
Recipient country's ‘policies’ and the effect of foreign aid on economic growth in developing countries: additional evidence

This note adds to the research which questions the recent influential view that recipient country's ‘policies’ play an important role in the effect of foreign aid on economic growth in developing countries. In the first step, the almost universal practice of imposing the constraint of equality on parameters of bilateral and multilateral aid is relaxed and it is shown that ‘policy’ has no role in the effect of aid even in those cases where the usual constrained models do show such an effect. In addition, many cases are noted where there is no indication of recipient country's policies having any role in the effect of aid on growth even in the usual constrained specifications. These cases employ not merely the Burnside–Dollar ‘policy’ index, which almost all scholars have used, but also two other broader measures. It is thus concluded that there is little empirical evidence to support the widely-disseminated view that redirecting aid toward countries with ‘good’ policies leads to more growth and greater poverty reduction in developing countries. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SPRINT II: a second generation single photon ring tomograph

SPRINT II is a stationary detector ring tomograph designed for brain imaging. Eleven two-dimensional sodium iodide camera modules that use maximum-likelihood position logic are arranged in a 50-cm-diameter ring with a scintillator packing fraction of 96%. A 34-cm-diameter rotating lead aperture ring containing either 10 or 12 slits is used for in-plane collimation, while the z-axis collimator is constructed of parallel lead foil rings. The field of view is 22 cm in diameter by 12 cm long. Sensitivity is 10 count/s/ mu Ci for an on-axis /sup 99m/Tc point source and 8500 count/s/ mu Ci/cm/sup 3/ for 19.8-cm-diameter by 6.2-cm-long cylindrical source. Longitudinal resolution is 10 mm FWHM, and in-plane resolution varies from 8 mm FWHM on-axis to 5 mm FWHM at a radius of 9 cm. Performance results are presented. >
Quantification of Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D2 and D3Using HPLC–Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Examination of Reference Intervals for Diagnosis of Vitamin D Deficiency

Serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D are important in establishing true vitamin D levels in humans. The purposes of this study were to develop a sensitive, specific liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for detection of 25-hydroxyvitamin D(2) and D(3) and establish reference intervals for these analytes. Chromatographic separation of 25(OH)D(2) and 25(OH)D(3) was achieved after adding deuterated Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (D(9)-THC-D(3)) and organic extraction. The 3 ions were ionized using positive electrospray ionization and detected in the multiple-reaction monitoring mode using mass (m)/charge (z) transitions of 318.15 > 196.20 (Delta(9)-THC-D(3)), 401.15 > 365.2 (25(OH)D(3)), and 413.15 > 355.20 (25(OH)D(2)). Reference interval study results were compared with current 25(OH)D recommendations. Elution of 25(OH)D(2), 25(OH)D(3), and Delta(9)-THC-D(3) was achieved after 3.0 minutes (total run time, 6.0 minutes). Within- and between-run coefficients of variation were less than 11%. Deming regression of radioimmunoassay and LC-MS/MS methods for total 25(OH)D levels yielded a slope of 0.97 (95% confidence interval, 0.88-1.05) and y-intercept of -1.74 ng/mL. Reference intervals were less than recommended levels (D(2), 0.0-12.1; D(3), 5.5-41.4; total vitamin D, 6.0-43.5 ng/mL [0-30, 14-103, 15-109 nmol/L, respectively]) with no statistically significant differences in race, age, or sex. This LC-MS/MS method provides a rapid, accurate, sensitive, and cost-effective alternative to other methods for detection of 25(OH)D(2) and 25(OH)D(3) at nanomolar concentrations.
Photoplasticity in HgCdte

A time delay has been observed in HgCdTe in the photoplastic response of these crystals. Both the magnitude of the time delay and the total change in stress, Δσ, are dependent on the wavelength of the light. These observations provide a basis for establishing that the photoplastic process is a dynamic one, in contrast to prior treatments of the problem as a static process. Solution of the kinetics associated with this time delay allow us to show the dynamical character of photoplasticity.
Do Seizures Affect the Developing Brain? Lessons From the Laboratory

Laboratory models of prolonged seizures and status epilepticus in developing animals demonstrate age- and model-dependent propensity for brain injury. Even in models without overt brain injury, plasticity, which leads to epileptogenicity as well as to behavioral and cognitive effects, has been demonstrated. Brief, recurrent seizures in the neonatal period not only appear to exhibit plasticity that can be anatomically and physiologically meaningful but also seem to produce cognitive deficits. Translation of these findings into clinical practice is limited by the effects chronic therapy may have on brain development. There is little evidence that available treatments can effectively alter epileptogenesis. However, it is widely agreed that prolonged seizures and status epilepticus can carry negative consequences. Preventing epileptogenesis remains an important goal to modify the development of comorbidities, and it represents an area of research in need of much progress. For now, prevention of prolonged seizures with early intervention is important and is the most effective available option to minimize the potential short- and long-term adverse effects of prolonged seizures and optimize patient outcomes.
Patterns of population variability in marine fish stocks

Exploited marine fish and invertebrate stocks fluctuate in a myriad of complex patterns, exhibiting variability on interannual, decadal, and longer time scales. To characterize various patterns of variation, time series of catch, catch per unit effort, or biomass from 30 stocks were examined with a variety of statistical methods including autocorrelation analysis and Lowess smoothing. A hierarchical cluster analysis classified the stocks into six identifiable groups: steady-state; low-variation, low-frequency; cyclic; irregular; high-variation, high-frequency; and spasmodic. The observed patterns are consistent with life history traits; for example, stocks with high variability are generally small, pelagic species whereas low-variability stocks are generally slow-growing, demersal fish. Each of the six general patterns of variability can be produced from a simple multiple-equilibrium population model by varying the intrinsic rate of population growth, and the time scale and amplitude of environmental variability. Suitable management policies depend on the type of variation observed, and the vast majority of stocks examined do not correspond to the steady-state assumptions of classical fisheries models. For example, management of spasmodic stocks may alternate between periods of active exploitation and periods of rebuilding, a process enhanced by the existence of alternative fisheries.
WETLAND DETERMINATION OF A SOUTHEAST OREGON VERNAL POOL AND MANAGEMENT IMPLICATIONS

Numerous landscape depressions on the High Lava Plain of southeast Oregon, USA are ponded in most years, but their wetland status has not been examined closely. We applied the standard wetland criteria (hydrology, soils, and vegetation) to one such pool to evaluate whether the pool meets federal criteria as a jurisdictional wetland. Wetland hydrology was determined to be present based on data from piezometer and ponding observations. Soils were determined to be hydric based on hydrology, soil temperature, and redox potentials. Vegetation met wetland criteria according to the 50/20 rule. Vegetation was similar to that of California Northern Basalt Flow vernal pools. Oregon pools are locally called “upland playas,” but they fit the definition of vernal pools. Many southeast Oregon vernal pools are dug out as waterholes for livestock, increasing ponding depth and duration. Increased water availability can alter biological communities within pools and on surrounding semi-arid uplands. Effects due to grazing and excrement inputs have not yet been investigated. Vernal pools constitute distinct habitat sites within semi-arid landscapes and, therefore, probably play an important, and so far poorly understood, ecological role on the southeast Oregon steppe.
Effectiveness of Houseplants in Reducing the Indoor Air Pollutant Ozone

ADDITIONAL INDEX WORDS. mitigation, depletion rates, foliage SUMMARY. Three common indoor houseplants, snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum), and golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum), were evaluated for their species effectiveness in reducing ozone concentrations in a simulated indoor environment. Continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR) chambers housed within a greenhouse equipped with a charcoal filtration air supply system were used to simulate an indoor environment in which ozone concentrations could be measured and regulated. Ozone was injected into the chambers and when concentrations reached 200 ± 5 ppb, the ozone-generating system was turned off and ozone concentrations over time (ozone was monitored every 5‐6 min in each chamber) were recorded until about <5 ppb were measured in the treatment chamber. On average, ozone depletion time (time from when the ozone generating system was turned off at � 200 ppb to <5 ppb in the chamber) ranged from 38 to 120 min per evaluation. Ozone depletion rates were higher within chambers that contained plants than within control chambers without plants, but there were no plant species differences.
X-RAY ABSORPTION AND EMISSION STUDY OF NITROGEN-DOPED TITANIA NANOPARTICLES

Xiaobo Chen and Clemens Burda Center for Chemical Dynamics & Nanomaterials Research, Department of Chemistry Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106 Jinghua Guo* Advanced Light Source, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720 Kevin E. Smith Department of Physics, Boston University, 590 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215 Per-Anders Glans and Timothy Learmonth Advanced Light Source, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 947203
Single-Experience Autobiographies

(1987). Single-Experience Autobiographies. a/b: Auto/Biography Studies: Vol. 3, No. 3, pp. 36-45.
Will Investors Profit By Following The Stock Recommendations Published In Barrons

Barron's is a weekly financial magazine published by Dow Jones. It’s considered America's premier financial weekly. Every week, Barron’s magazine will include a section “Research Reports,” which contains the analysts’ recommendations. Using event study methodology and market model as a benchmark, we calculate abnormal returns to ascertain the impact of the recommendations published in the Research Reports. We find that there are no statistically significant long-term abnormal returns associated with the published recommendations in Barron’s.
Incorporation of Glycine Into Protein Fractions of Nuclei of Liver and Hepatoma.

SummaryA procedure is described for the separation of the proteins of cell nuclei into several fractions which differ in solubilities and in glycine content. Twenty hours after intraperitoneal injection of glycine-l-C14 into adult rats bearing subcutaneously transplanted hepatomas the specific activities of the protein fractions of the nuclei of liver and tumor were in the descending order: residual lipoprotein > globulins > histone fraction III > histone fraction II. Each of the protein fractions of the nuclei of liver cells had higher specific activities than corresponding protein fractions of the hepatoma with the notable exception of the histones which were in the reverse relationship.
Redox cycling in nanoscale-recessed ring-disk electrode arrays for enhanced electrochemical sensitivity.

An array of nanoscale-recessed ring-disk electrodes was fabricated using layer-by-layer deposition, nanosphere lithography, and a multistep reactive ion etching process. The resulting device was operated in generator–collector mode by holding the ring electrodes at a constant potential and performing cyclic voltammetry by sweeping the disk potential in Fe(CN)63–/4– solutions. Steady-state response and enhanced (∼10×) limiting current were achieved by cycling the redox couple between ring and disk electrodes with high transfer/collection efficiency. The collector (ring) electrode, which is held at a constant potential, exhibits a much smaller charging current than the generator (disk), and it is relatively insensitive to scan rate. A characteristic feature of the nanoscale ring–disk geometry is that the electrochemical reaction occurring at the disk electrodes can be tuned by modulating the potential at the ring electrodes. Measured shifts in Fe(CN)63–/4– concentration profiles were found to be in excellen...
Flow Visualization with Laser-Induced Thermal Tufts

The laser-induced thermal tuft is a new flow visualization technique for simulating traditional tufts with a thermal plume. A laser is used to heat a point of interest on a windtunnel model, causing downstream convection of thermal energy from the heated spot. A temperature-sensitive coating is used to visualize the thermal plume. This technique can be used to indicate flow direction, locate regions of separated flow, and detect laminar/turbulent transition. One primary advantage of thermal tufts is that the measurement technique is less intrusive than traditional tufts. In addition, thermal tufts may be generated at any optically-accessible point during a test, whereas string tufts must be applied to specified locations before a test. This enables greater experimental efficiency, which is particularly important in large-scale ground-testing facilities. This work extends and develops the thermal tuft concept by employing temperature-sensitive paint, as well as the previously used thermochromic liquid crystals. The effect of various substrate materials on tuft quality is evaluated. Calibrations of tuft length dependency on Reynolds number and laser power are made. Furthermore, a computational model is developed to simulate the tuft shape and structure. Finally, a new variation of the technique is presented, based on thermal ablation of the substrate material.
Dual parameter analysis of myeloma cells by flow cytometry. DNA content of cells containing monotypic cytoplasmic immunoglobulin.

Dual-parameter flow cytometric analysis of monotypic cytoplasmic immunoglobulin (CIg) and DNA content on 15 myeloma marrows allowed S-phase determination of the CIg(+) tumor separately from the CIg(−) hematopoietic cell pool. The median percentage of the CIg(+) cells in S-phase was 2% compared with 5% for the CIg(−) cells. The median survival of patients with more than 2%, and those with 2% or less CIg(+) S-phase cells was 2 months and more than 13 months, respectively, from the time of study. Ploidy analysis identified four patterns of plasma cell DNA content: entirely hyperdiploid, entirely diploid, combined diploid and tetraploid stemlines, and tumors containing diploid and aneuploid CIg(+) cells. A monotypic CIg(+) double stemline myeloma was distinguished from two aneuploid tumors containing admixed normal, diploid polyclonal plasma cells. This technique provides an improved and expedient means for deter-mining the proliferating fractions of myeloma cells and enhances recognition of double stemline tumors and clonal evolution in myeloma.
Direction of faulting from first-motion studies

abstract The effect of a crustal layer on the surface distribution of initial motion from a crustal earthquake is examined. For crustal earthquakes a simple modification of the extended distances given by Hodgson and Storey permits the direct comparison of data obtained from a network of near stations with data from distant stations treated by the Byerly method. The patterns of first motion expected at near and distant stations from a given geometry of faulting with different assumed crustal velocities are compared. In cases where either the fault or auxiliary plane dips at an angle less than about 60° there should be a significant difference in the first-motion pattern. Under certain plausible assumed conditions patterns resembling an explosion or implosion can be obtained. Previously published first-motion studies are discussed in the light of the foregoing analysis, and in certain cases a modification of the interpretation is necessary. These results indicate more strike slip faulting than has been previously estimated for foci within the crust.
Investigation of Allicin Stability in Aqueous Garlic Extract by High Performance Liquid Chromatography Method

Aims: The aims of this work were to quantify allicin an abundant antioxidant in different aqueous garlic extract samples and to determine the stability of allicin in the extract under different thermal and solvation conditions. Study Design: Descriptive research. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, between May 2013 and September 2014. Original Research Article Chong et al.; JSRR, 4(7): 590-598, 2015; Article no.JSRR.2015.062 591 Methodology: A reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography method was used to analyze allicin in garlic extracts. Quantification of allicin in garlic extracts was made by comparing its peak area with the standard calibration curve of allicin with known concentrations. The kinetic study of allicin degradation in garlic extracts was based on the Arrhenius theory. Results: The amount of allicin in aqueous garlic extracts varied from 35.6 to 44.5 mM. The thermal stability study shows that the degradation of allicin is a first-order reaction and the preliminary data shows that the degradation of allicin in different solvents has different kinetic parameters. Conclusion: The concentration of allicin in garlic extract samples was similar to each other, despite of different sampling dates. For medicinal purpose, garlic extracts should be used freshly to prevent any degradation of allicin.
Effect of Hydrocortisone on Age-Dependent Changes in Lipid Metabolism of Primary Human Amnion Cells in Vitro∗:

SummaryHydrocortisone, a compound capable of prolonging postmitotic life span of primary human amnion cells in vitro was also capable of abolishing the age-dependent increase in lipid/CO2 ratio of cultures fed with palmitate or oleate, and of delaying the age-dependent increase in incorporation of cholesterol into cell lipids.
Neonatal Abdominal Aortic Thrombus An Associated Risk of Umbilical Artery Catheterization

Umbilical artery catheterization is considered the standard of care for arterial access in neonates. Studies have shown, however, that umbilical artery catheterization carries a high risk of aortic thrombosis, which can be fatal. Neonatal aortic thrombosis can be difficult to treat appropriately, in part because of the absence of reliable data for this patient population and nonstandardized reporting of the condition. Sonography of the abdominal aorta in neonates provides a noninvasive means of diagnosing the presence and extent of aortic thrombus, which assists in managing the patient’s plan of care. An important case also has been made for long-term follow-up studies using sonography as the diagnostic tool in patients who received umbilical artery catheters as infants.
Book Review - Mike Hume, Why We Disagree About Climate Change: Understanding Controversy, Inaction and Opportunity

“Why do we disagree about climate change?” Chances are whatever answer you give will be treated in this comprehensive view of the phenomenon. For Mike Hulme presents “climate change as an idea as much as ..a physical phenomenon that can be observed, quantified and measured.” After an exhaustive coverage of various perspectives on climate change Hulme concludes that we “should use climate change both as a magnifying glass and as a mirror…this condition of climate change in which we are now embroiled may teach and empower us to embark on different projects from those that come easily to us…let us at least recognize that the sources of our disagreement about climate change lie deep within us, in our values and in our sense of identity and purpose. They do not reside ‘out there’ a result of our inability to grasp knowingly some ultimate physical realty… disagreements….should always be a form of enlightenment”. This is a positive but critical review of the book.
A study on relationship of overweight,obesity and hypertension among pupils in certain unban area in Chongqing

Objective To identify the relationship between overweight,obesity and hypertension among pupils of 2primary schools in certain unban area in Chongqing.To provide scientific basis for preventing hypertension among pupils.Methods A multistage random sampling was used to select 1 017pupils from the two investigated primary schools.The pupils′height,body weight,waist circumference and blood pressure were measured for further research.Results The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 14.65%and 10.72%,respectively.Statistics of urban school students(20.63% and 16.63%)were higher than that of labour school students(9.41%and 5.54%).The prevalence of hyper systolic blood pressure,hyper diastolic blood pressure and hypertension was 3.93%,5.11%and 7.67%,respectively,which was higher among urban school students(5.47%,7.16%and 10.32%)than rural school students(2.58%,3.32% and 5.35%).The result of logistic multi-factor regression analysis showed that the risk factors for hyper systolic blood pressure were high waist circumference,age,overweight and obesity with the OR of 4.795(95% CI=1.570~ 14.647),1.315(95% CI=1.069~1.619),3.285(95% CI=1.178~9.159)and 5.063(95% CI=1.439~17.809),respectively.The risk factor for hyper diastolic blood pressure was obesity with the OR of 5.446(95 CI=2.817~10.528).The risk factors for hypertension were overweight and obesity with the OR of 2.726(95%CI=1.455~5.107)and 8.604(95% CI=4.966~14.906),respectively.Conclusions The prevalent situation of overweight,obesity and hypertension was not very optimistic among those investigated pupils.Overweight and obesity are the risk factors for hypertension.We should attach importance to the prevention and control of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents in order to early prevent hypertension.
NOISE CONDITIONS IN NORMAL SCHOOL CLASSROOMS.

A comparison was made of noise levels in different types of schools. The results indicate that noise levels in elementary and secondary schools are unlikely to seriously hinder the selective use of a hearing aid. Noise levels in kindergartens were shown to constitute a serious problem in the effective use of amplification by young children in school.
A dynamic equilibrium economy

There are alternatives to a policy of unrestricted growth, and one of them can lead to a society of rising living standards without significant pollution or depletion; the second in a Bulletin bi centennial series
Complete Genome Sequence of Escherichia coli ER1821R, a Laboratory K-12 Derivative Engineered To Be Deficient in All Methylcytosine and Methyladenine Restriction Systems

ABSTRACT We present here the complete genomic sequence of a rifampin-resistant derivative of the Escherichia coli K-12 laboratory strain ER1821, engineered to be deficient in all known restriction systems, making it suitable for generating unbiased libraries from organisms with non-K-12 methylation patterns. The ER1821R genome is most closely related to that of DH1, another popular cloning strain (both derived from MM294), but is deleted for the e14 prophage (McrA-) and the immigration control (McrBC- EcoKI R- M- Mrr-) loci.
Minimally invasive surgery in the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A literature review and meta-analysis.

Abstract Background context Spinal fusion surgery for scoliosis can be performed using a traditional open approach, or by following a minimally invasive approach. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is associated with theoretical advantages, such as reduced blood loss and a shorter hospital stay, yet there is no consensus in the literature with regard to the best treatment approach for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Purpose To assess the clinical outcomes of patients with AIS treated with either an open or minimally invasive approach. Study design Systematic review and meta-analysis of English-language studies for the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Patient sample Pooled results from level 1 and 2 studies. Methods We carried out a systematic literature search of EMBASE and MEDLINE, identifying studies investigating MIS in the treatment of AIS. Percentages of curvature correction were pooled and analysed. Results The literature search returned 50 articles, of which we determined 4 studies to be relevant. The pooled percentage curve correction across these groups was 62.05% for the MIS group and 70% for the open surgery group. Although these data are significant ( p = 0.001), the available studies are of variable quality, and sample sizes small. Conclusions Patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis can be managed with either a traditional open approach or a minimally invasive approach. The data suggests that open surgery offers an advantage in terms of curve correction, compared to minimally invasive surgery, however more investigation (in the form of robust randomized control trials) is needed before conclusive clinical suggestions can be recommended.
A longitudinal study of sleep duration in pregnancy and subsequent risk of gestational diabetes: findings from a prospective, multiracial cohort

Background Both short and prolonged sleep duration have been linked to impaired glucose metabolism. Sleep patterns change during pregnancy, but prospective data are limited on their relation to gestational diabetes. Objective We sought to prospectively examine the trimester-specific (first and second trimester) association between typical sleep duration in pregnancy and subsequent risk of gestational diabetes, as well as the influence of compensatory daytime napping on this association. Study Design In the prospective, multiracial Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Fetal Growth Studies-Singleton Cohort, 2581 pregnant women reported their typical sleep duration and napping frequency in the first and second trimesters. Diagnosis of gestational diabetes (n = 107; 4.1%) was based on medical records review. Adjusted relative risks with 95% confidence intervals for gestational diabetes were estimated with Poisson regression, adjusting for demographics, prepregnancy body mass index, and other risk factors. Results From the first and second trimester, sleep duration and napping frequency declined. Sleeping duration in the second but not first trimester was significantly related to risk of gestational diabetes. The association between second-trimester sleep and gestational diabetes differed by prepregnancy obesity status ( P for interaction = .04). Among nonobese but not obese women, both sleeping >8-9 hours or P for interaction = .03). Significant and positive association between reduced sleep (5-7 hours) and gestational diabetes was observed among women napping rarely/never (adjusted relative risk, 2.48; 95% confidence interval, 1.20–5.13), whereas no comparable associations were observed among women napping most/sometimes. Conclusion Our data suggest a U-shaped association between sleep duration and gestational diabetes, and that napping and prepregnancy obesity status may modify this association.