cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Typed versus voice recognition for data entry in electronic health records: emergency physician time use and interruptions.

Introduction: Use of electronic health record (EHR) systems can place a considerable data entry burden upon the emergency department (ED) physician. Voice recognition data entry has been proposed as one mechanism to mitigate some of this burden; however, no reports are available specifically comparing emergency physician (EP) time use or number of interruptions between typed and voice recognition data entry-based EHRs. We designed this study to compare physician time use and interruptions between an EHR system using typed data entry versus an EHR with voice recognition. Methods: We collected prospective observational data at 2 academic teaching hospital EDs, one using an EHR with typed data entry and the other with voice recognition capabilities. Independent raters observed EP activities during regular shifts. Tasks each physician performed were noted and logged in 30 second intervals. We compared time allocated to charting, direct patient care, and change in tasks leading to interruptions between sites. Results: We logged 4,140 minutes of observation for this study. We detected no statistically significant differences in the time spent by EPs charting (29.4% typed; 27.5% voice) or the time allocated to direct patient care (30.7%; 30.8%). Significantly more interruptions per hour were seen with typed data entry versus voice recognition data entry (5.33 vs. 3.47; p=0.0165). Conclusion: The use of a voice recognition data entry system versus typed data entry did not appear to alter the amount of time physicians spend charting or performing direct patient care in an ED setting. However, we did observe a lower number of workflow interruptions with the voice recognition data entry EHR. Additional research is needed to further evaluate the data entry burden in the ED and examine alternative mechanisms for chart entry as EHR systems continue to evolve. [West J Emerg Med. 2014;15(4):541-547.]
Spectroscopic characterization of secondary amine mono-oxygenase. Comparison to cytochrome P-450 and myoglobin.

Abstract Secondary amine mono-oxygenase from Pseudomonas aminovorans catalyzes the NAD(P)H- and dioxygen-dependent N-dealkylation of secondary amines to yield a primary amine and an aldehyde. Heme iron, flavin, and non-heme iron prosthetic groups are known to be present in the oligomeric enzyme. The N-dealkylation reaction is also catalyzed by the only other heme-containing mono-oxygenase, cytochrome P-450. In order to identify the heme iron axial ligands of secondary amine mono-oxygenase so as to better define the structural requirements for oxygen activation by heme enzymes, we have investigated the spectroscopic properties of the enzyme. The application of three different spectroscopic techniques, UV-visible absorption, magnetic circular dichroism and electron paramagnetic resonance, to study eight separate enzyme derivatives has provided extensive and convincing evidence for the presence of a proximal histidine ligand. This conclusion is based primarily on comparisons of the spectral properties of the enzyme with those of parallel derivatives of myoglobin (histidine proximal ligand) and P-450 (cysteinate proximal ligand). Spectral studies of ferric secondary amine mono-oxygenase as a function of pH have led to the proposal that the distal ligand is water. Deprotonation of the distal water ligand occurs upon either raising the pH to 9.0 or substrate (dimethylamine) binding. In contrast, the deoxyferrous enzyme appears to have a weakly bound nitrogen donor distal ligand. Initial spectroscopic studies of the iron-sulfur units in the enzyme are interpreted in terms of a pair of Fe2S2 clusters. Secondary amine mono-oxygenase is unique in its ability to function as cytochrome P-450 in activating molecular oxygen but to do so with a myoglobin-like active site. As such, it provides an important system with which to probe structure-function relations in heme-containing oxygenases.
Observation of temperature-dependent site disorder in YBa2Cu3O7- delta below 150 degreesC.

We have observed annealing effects in both single-crystal and ceramic samples of oxygen-deficient YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7-{delta}} that occur at temperatures as low as 0 {degree}C. Oxygen stoichiometries were controlled by quenching, from 520 {degree}C, samples equilibrated in a controlled O{sub 2}-N{sub 2} atmosphere. For single crystals, transition temperatures with any desired value between 0 and 92 K, and transition widths less than 2 K, were readily obtained with appropriate variation of {delta}. After quenching, superconducting transition temperatures of the reduced samples rise, as much as 15 K, when aged in ambient atmosphere for several days; the sample composition does not change with aging. With low-temperature aging, structural changes also occur; e.g., orthorhombicity increases. These effects are attributed to oxygen-vacancy ordering that occurs in the chain region of the structure. The rise in {Tc} with aging (ordering) is attributed to increased hole doping in the planes that results from an increased population of two-coordinated (monovalent) copper atoms. For samples with reduced stoichiometries, the degree of disorder can be reversibly controlled with secondary quenches in the temperature range 0--120 {degree}C. For stoichiometries 7{minus}{delta}{approx equal}6.5, an approximate activation energy of 0.96 eV was obtained for the annealing process. This low-temperature annealing behavior,more » occurring in samples of constant composition, provides a remarkably simple and effective way to study the relationship between superconductivity, structure, and associated electronic properties.« less
Quantitative Approaches to Dyadic Data Analyses in Family Communication Research: An Invited Essay

In this essay, I briefly review some of the methodological concerns and theoretical opportunities that exist when researchers use quantitative methods to analyze dyadic data. First, I review three fundamental concepts inherent to dyadic data analysis. I then discuss three dyadic data designs that are commonly employed within family and interpersonal communication. After highlighting the two most common statistical techniques that researchers use to analyze dyadic data (i.e., multilevel and structural equation modeling), I address some of the theoretical opportunities that exist when family communication scholars shift their thinking away from the individual to the dyad. I conclude with an exhortation to use dyadic data to help advance our theoretical understandings of both the relational and systemic dynamics that animate family interaction.
Sexual and Gender Minority Health Research at the National Institutes of Health

Abstract Sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations experience many diseases and conditions at higher prevalence rates than their non-SGM counterparts. In 2009, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) commissioned an Institute of Medicine (IOM) report to better understand the health of SGM populations. Following the release of the report, NIH, including the National Cancer Institute (NCI), initiated new activities, and continued and expanded its existing efforts to advance the health of SGM individuals. Such efforts include various forms of outreach to solicit feedback, support of extramural researchers, analysis of the research portfolio to identify areas of opportunity, and the development of the NIH Strategic Plan for SGM Health Research.
Characterization of Field-Aged EGR Cooler Deposits

Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler fouling has become a significant issue for compliance with NOx emissions standards. In order to better understand fouling mechanisms, eleven field-aged EGR coolers provided by seven different engine manufacturers were characterized using a suite of techniques. Microstructures were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy following mounting the samples in epoxy and polishing. Optical microscopy was able to discern the location of hydrocarbons in the polished cross-sections. Chemical compositions were measured using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Mass per unit area along the length of the coolers was also measured. Despite coming from different sources and applications, many common features were observed in the cooler deposits including mud-cracking, hydrocarbon condensation near the metal surface, and erosion of the deposit. Differences and commonalities between the coolers will be discussed in the context of better understanding cooler fouling and ways to prevent it.
A Diagnostic Reading of Scientifically Based Research for Education.

This essay offers a diagnosis of what may be at stake in the current preoccupation with defining science-based educational research. The diagnosis unfolds in several readings: The first is a charitable and considerate appraisal that draws attention to the fact that advocating experimental methods as important to a science of educational research is not an inherently evil thing to do. Subsequent readings are grimmer, suggesting more deleterious consequences of the science-based research movement for the entire enterprise of educational practice and research. The central thesis of the essay is that making arguments about method and science the focal point in the current quarrel may be largely beside the point. Instead, educational researchers should join the political and public (not just the academic) conversation about the place of educational science in society and about how science is both implicated in and confronts the politics of what counts as knowledge.
Interferon Production by Macrophages from Adult and Newborn Rabbits Bearing Fibroma Virus-Induced Tumors

Tumors were induced in adult and newborn rabbits by inoculation of fibroma virus. After 10 to 14 days, oil-induced peritoneal macrophages were harvested, purified, and tested in vitro for interferon synthesis after stimulation with specific and nonspecific viruses. Peritoneal macrophages from adult rabbits that had initiated tumor regression produced high levels of interferon (titers ranged from 160 to 640) after stimulation with fibroma virus, whereas macrophages from normal adult rabbits failed to produce significant levels of interferon under the same conditions (titers ranged from <10 to 10). Furthermore, fibroma-immune macrophages responded to vaccinia virus and Newcastle disease virus with higher levels of interferon than did normal macrophages. In contrast, macrophages from newborn tumor-bearing rabbits that showed no evidence of tumor regression failed to respond to fibroma virus stimulation with higher levels of interferon (titers ranged from <10 to 10). These macrophages did, however, yield significantly more interferon than newborn control macrophages when stimulated with a good interferon inducer, Newcastle disease virus (titers ranged from 10 to 80). These data suggest that interferon production may be an expression of macrophage activation to fibroma antigens and that macrophage activation is impaired in newborn rabbits with progressive growing tumors.
Immunoproteasome assembly: cooperative incorporation of interferon gamma (IFN-gamma)-inducible subunits.

LMP2, LMP7, and MECL are interferon γ–inducible catalytic subunits of vertebrate 20S proteasomes, which can replace constitutive catalytic subunits (delta, X, and Z, respectively) during proteasome biogenesis. We demonstrate that MECL requires LMP2 for efficient incorporation into preproteasomes, and preproteasomes containing LMP2 and MECL require LMP7 for efficient maturation. The latter effect depends on the presequence of LMP7, but not on LMP7 catalytic activity. This cooperative mechanism favors the assembly of homogeneous “immunoproteasomes” containing all three inducible subunits, suggesting that these subunits act in concert to enhance proteasomal generation of major histocompatibility complex class I–binding peptides.
The Argumentative Burdens of Audience Conjectures: Audience Research in Popular Culture Criticism

This chapter is a reprint with a new introduction of a classic 1998 text on claims about specific effects on audiences or claims describing the determinate meaning of a text for audiences. The chapter notes that these ‘audience conjectures’ are being advanced by rhetorical critics of popular culture texts without adequate evidence. The thesis is that if critics make claims concerning the determinate meanings of the text or the effects those texts have on audiences, then the critic should support such claims with audience research. The chapter concludes with three theoretical notions: that wording in scholarly writing matters, that the lines between social scientific and humanistic research should be blurred, and that audience research enhances the connections between rhetorical and cultural studies.
Photophysics of Re(I) and Ru(II) diimine complexes covalently linked to pyrene: Contributions from intra-ligand charge transfer states

The photophysical properties of Ru(II) and Re(I) polypyridyl complexes including a bis-bipyridyl pyrene ligand are presented. The complexes ([(bpy)(2)Ru](2)bpb)(4+) and [(CO)(3)ReCl(bpb)] (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridine, bpb = 1,6-bis-(4-(2,2'-bipyrid-yl)-pyrene) were designed with the intent of examining intramolecular energy migration between MLCT states localized on the metal complexes and pyrene-localized (3)(pi-pi) states. Absorption spectroscopy of both complexes containing the bpb ligand reveals that in addition to the MLCT and the pyrene-centered (1)(pi-pi) transitions, a new absorption band is observed near 400 nm for both complexes. Absorption spectral data for the Re(I) complex strongly suggest the presence of a pyrene(pi) to bpy(pi) intraligand charge transfer (ILCT) transition. Emission spectra at room temperature and at 77 K are almost identical for the Ru(II) and Re(I) complexes containing the bpb ligand. The (3)MLCT emission of related bipyridyl compounds lacking the pyrene is observed at higher energy than for the pyrene-containing complexes, ([(bpy)(2)Ru](2)bpb)(4+) and [(CO(3)ReCl(bpb)]. The Ru(II) complex emits at room temperature with a remarkably long lifetime (130 micros in degassed DMSO). This emission is also strongly sensitive to oxygen and is almost entirely quenched in an aerated solution. In addition, excited-state absorption spectra exhibit features not consistent with (3)MLCT or (3)(pi-pi) states of the parent chromophores. The combined characteristics suggest the emission arises from either (3)(pi-pi) or (3)ILCT states or a state with mixed parentage.
Combustion Synthesis of Nanosized SiCxNy Powders

Silane/acetylene/ammonia flames were used to produce fine powders of composition SiC x N y The experiments were conducted in a spherical reactor at 1 atmosphere total pressure with spark ignition in the center of the chamber. The composition was determined from complete quantitative analysis of the gas products and elemental analysis of the solids. IR spectra indicate little bound hydrogen in the powders, but oxygen was adsorbed on the high surface area powders (60–80 m 2 /g, N 2 BET). The experimental stoichiometries of the nascent powders can be represented as mixtures with weight ratios of Si 3 N 4 /SiC ranging from about 0.2 to 2, and variable amounts of excess carbon or silicon. The powders, from TEM, consist of chains of nearly symmetrical particles with diameters around 40 nm. Helium pycnometry densities in the range of 2.9 to 3.2 g/cc are consistent with the theoretical densities for the Si 3 N 4 /SiC stoichiometries. The powders were amorphous or nanocrystalline, from X-ray diffraction (Cu K α ). Annealing in argon at 1773 K for 8 h resulted in preferential growth of crystalline SiC domains.
Receipt of Disability Payments by Substance Users: Mental and Physical Health Correlates

Since 1997, substance users have received disability benefits only for impairments apart from their substance use disorders. It is hypothesized that substance users currently receiving disability benefits would be more severely compromised, medically and/or psychiatrically, than those not receiving disability. Enrolling a community sample of 330 heroin and cocaine users between January 2002 and January 2004, it was found that individuals who were not receiving disability payments had similar mental health scores, current depressive symptoms scores, and lifetime rates of major depression compared to those receiving payments, but significantly lower rates of bipolar or psychotic disorders and psychiatric hospitalization (p < .01). Physically disabled persons had lower physical function scores and were more likely to be HIV-infected or taking medications regularly (p < .001). The authors conclude that schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and chronic physical illness, but not major depression, are qualifying substance users for disability benefits. Longitudinal studies of disability status and its effects on the lives of substance users are warranted.
The cloning and sequence analysis of the rat serotonin-1A receptor gene.

Abstract Using a probe derived from the human 5-HT 1A receptor gene (G-21), a strongly hybridizable clone was identified from a rat genomic DNA library. This clone (G21Y2) had an overall deduced amino acid sequence that was 88% homologous with that of the human 5-HT 1A receptor. There was only an 18% and 19% amino acid homology with the rat 5-HT 1C and 5-HT 2 receptors, respectively. The G21Y2 appears to be an excellent candidate for the rat 5-HT 1A receptor gene. As this manuscript was being prepared a report by Albert et al. (13) was published in which a probe to the hamster β 2 -adrenergic receptor was used to identify a rat genomic (Clone D) that demonstrated a sequence that was similar to G21Y2.
Herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase enzymatic assay in transient transfection experiments using thymidine kinase-deficient cells.

Abstract An enzymatic assay for herpes virus simplex type 1 thymidine kinase (HSV-TK) that was sensitive enough to quantitate intracellular levels of enzyme transiently expressed after transfection of HSV-TK vectors into TK-deficient cells using the DNA-calcium phosphate coprecipitation technique is described. TK activity in extracts of transfected cells was determined by binding of [ methyl - 3 H]thymidylate product to thin layers of polyethyleneimine (PEI)-impregnated cellulose. The assay used high-specific-activity [ methyl - 3 H]thymidine as substrate, which required removal of anionic material on a column of PEI-cellulose to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio. The assay was linear over a wide range with respect to the amount of HSV-TK plasmid transfected or content of HSV-TK enzyme in cell extracts. To validate the assay in transient expression experiments, HSV-TK and chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) plasmids were cotransfected into NIH/3T3 tk − fibroblasts. Transient TK and CAT levels were concordant in cell extracts prepared from replicate plates of transfected cells. Normalizing the transient TK activity for CAT activity from the cotransfected “internal standard” CAT plasmid improved precision significantly, reducing the sample-to-sample coefficient of variation from 41 to 19%. CAT normalization reduced experimental variability mostly by correcting outlying results in transfection efficiency. The HSV-TK reporter gene system based on TK enzymatic assay was thus subject to experimental variation similar to that of the well-established CAT reporter function, demonstrating its utility in transient gene expression analysis.
Effect of light and brine shrimp on skeletal δ13C in the Hawaiian coral Porites compressa: a tank experiment

Previous experimental fieldwork showed that coral skeletal δ13C values decreased when solar intensity was reduced, and increased in the absence of zooplankton. However, actual seasonal changes in solar irradiance levels are typically less pronounced than those used in the previous experiment and the effect of increases in the consumption of zooplankton in the coral diet on skeletal δ13C remains relatively unknown. In the present study, the effects of four different light and heterotrophy regimes on coral skeletal δ13C values were measured. Porites compressa corals were grown in outdoor flow-through tanks under 112%, 100%, 75%, and 50% light conditions at the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology, Hawaii. In addition, corals were fed either zero, low, medium, or high concentrations of brine shrimp. Decreases in light from 100% resulted in significant decreases in δ13C that is most likely due to a corresponding decrease in photosynthesis. Increases in light to 112% also resulted in a decrease in δ13C values. This latter response may be a consequence of photoinhibition. The overall curved response in δ13C values was described by a significant quadratic function. Increases in brine shrimp concentrations resulted in increased skeletal δ13C levels. This unexpected outcome appears to be attributable to enhanced nitrogen supply associated with the brine shrimp diet which led to increased zooxanthellae concentrations, increased photosynthesis rates, and thus increased δ13C values. This result highlights the potential influence of nutrients from heterotrophically acquired carbon in maintaining the zooxanthellae-host symbiosis in balance. In addition, evidence is presented that suggests that coral skeletal growth and δ13C are decoupled. These results increase our knowledge of how light and heterotrophy affects the δ13C of coral skeletons.
Regulator of G Protein Signaling Z1 (RGSZ1) Interacts with Gαi Subunits and Regulates Gαi-mediated Cell Signaling

Abstract Regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins constitute a family of over 20 proteins that negatively regulate heterotrimeric G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathways by enhancing endogenous GTPase activities of G protein α subunits. RGSZ1, one of the RGS proteins specifically localized to the brain, has been cloned previously and described as a selective GTPase accelerating protein for Gαz subunit. Here, we employed several methods to provide new evidence that RGSZ1 interacts not only with Gαz, but also with Gαi, as supported byin vitro binding assays and functional studies. Using glutathione S-transferase fusion protein pull-down assays, glutathione S-transferase-RGSZ1 protein was shown to bind35S-labeled Gαi1 protein in anAlF dependent manner. The interaction between RGSZ1 and Gαi was confirmed further by co-immunoprecipitation studies and yeast two-hybrid experiments using a quantitative luciferase reporter gene. Extending these observations to functional studies, RGSZ1 accelerated endogenous GTPase activity of Gαi1 in single-turnover GTPase assays. Human RGSZ1 functionally regulated GPA1 (a yeast Gαi-like protein)-mediated yeast pheromone response when expressed in a SST2 (yeast RGS protein) knockout strain. In PC12 cells, transfected RGSZ1 blocked mitogen-activated protein kinase activity induced by UK14304, an α2-adrenergic receptor agonist. Furthermore, RGSZ1 attenuated D2 dopamine receptor agonist-induced serum response element reporter gene activity in Chinese hamster ovary cells. In summary, these data suggest that RGSZ1 serves as a GTPase accelerating protein for Gαi and regulates Gαi-mediated signaling, thus expanding the potential role of RGSZ1 in G protein-mediated cellular activities.
Feeling Safe: The Psychosocial Needs of ICU Patients

Purpose: To describe the psychosocial needs of critically ill patients, including descriptions of patients' experiences when these needs are not met, and behaviors of families, friends, and ICU staff that help or impede meeting these needs. Design: A qualitative research design was used. Participants were 45 adult critically ill patients in the medical or surgical ICU for a minimum of 3 days in a large, rural American tertiary care center. Methods: Data collection and analysis were conducted using methods of grounded theory, including theoretical sampling and the constant comparative process. Unstructured taperecorded interviews were conducted with patients once they were stable in the ICU or immediately following their transfer to a general unit. Data were collected and analyzed simultaneously. This process continued until saturation was reached and a model of the psychosocial needs of ICU patients was developed. Findings: The overwhelming need of ICU patients was to feel safe. The perception of feeling safe was influenced by family and friends, ICU staff, religious beliefs, and feelings of knowing, regaining control, hoping, and trusting. Conclusions: ICU patients in this study said that feeling safe was their overarching need. Patients described feelings of distress when they did not feel safe and stated how family, staff, and religion could both positively and negatively affect this feeling. Nurses can intervene in numerous areas to foster the feeling of safety in critically ill patients.
A Study on Applying Divergence-Free Condition in Solving the Volume Integral Equation with Loop Basis

This paper focuses on using the solenoidal volume loop basis scheme. A search algorithm based on graph theory for the complete independent loop basis set is reported. To improve the convergence, an expanded volume loop basis is proposed. This basis set is easier to construct and also improves the convergence of the iterative solvers
Dark zones of solid propellant flames: Critically assessed datasets, quantitative model comparison, and detailed chemical analysis

Abstract The formation of propellant dark zone (DZ) structures in the gaseous flames above many solid propellants has been a subject of recurrent interest to us for about 20 years. The DZ structure is controlled by small molecule chemistry. The DZ chemistry is very important in controlling both the flame structure at low pressure (10–100 atm) and burning rates at high pressure (above ∼500 atm), even though DZs collapse at higher pressures. We developed a detailed, frequently updated mechanism to model it. This report reviews prior work, introduces our most recent modeling results, and documents the first quantitative tests of several key assumptions. All relevant experimental literature is critically assessed to identify datasets for testing our model. Comparison of predictions and experimental results shows reasonable agreement, and thus we advocate use of our mechanism. But the precision of both experiments and predictions is not tight, nor are there many test datasets. Further experimentation is needed, and types of study that would be of greatest benefit are suggested. A detailed discussion of the chemistry that controls DZ structure is presented.
REVISION WASHOUT DECREASES PENILE PROSTHESIS INFECTION IN REVISION SURGERY: A MULTICENTER STUDY

ABSTRACTPurpose: Reoperation of penile implants carries a higher risk of infection (7% to 18%). Positive cultures and visible bacterial biofilm have been shown to be present on clinically uninfected inflatable penile prostheses (IPPs) at revision. A salvage irrigation protocol has proved to rescue patients with a clinically infected IPP. During revision surgery for noninfectious reasons we investigated washing out the implant space at revision surgery and using an antibiotic coated replacement prosthesis to determine if it would decrease subsequent infection rates.Materials and Methods: At 3 institutions 183 patients with a penile prosthesis underwent revision surgery for noninfectious reasons between June 2001 and October 2003. Of these patients 140 had the entire implant removed and then underwent antiseptic solution lavage of the implant spaces (revision washout), followed by replacement with a 3 piece IPP. This revision washout is a modification of the original Mulcahy salvage procedure. In the remain...
Lumbar spinal stenosis-diagnosis and management of the aging spine

Low back pain and lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is an extensive problem in the elderly presenting with pain, disability, fall risk and depression. The incidence of LSS is projected to continue to grow as the population ages. In light of the risks, costs and lack of long-term results associated with surgery, and the positive outcomes in studies utilizing physical therapy interventions for the LSS patient, a non-invasive approach is recommended as a first line of intervention. This Masterclass presents an overview of LSS in terms of clinical examination, diagnosis, and intervention. A focused management approach to the patient with LSS is put forward that emphasizes a defined four-fold approach of patient education, manual physical therapy, mobility and strengthening exercises, and aerobic conditioning.
Effect of day length and light intensity on 2-tridecanone levels and resistance inLycopersicon hirsutum f.glabratum toManduca sexta

First instarManduca sexta (L.) larvae confined on foliage fromLycopersicon hirsutum f.glabratum (accession PI 134417) plants grown under a long-day regime exhibited greater mortality than larvae on foliage from plants grown under a short-day regime. 2-Tridecanone, a toxin important in the insect resistance of PI 134417, was significantly more abundant in the foliage of plants grown under the long-than the short-day regimes. Light intensity influenced neither 2-tridecanone levels nor the expression of resistance. The density of glandular trichomes, which secrete 2-tridecanone, was influenced by an interaction between day length and light intensity.
The self as a soliloquy

The major shortcomings in the Meadian and Neo-Meadian views of the self are identified. An alternative view of the self as a soliloquy that avoids these particular shortcomings is presented. In thi...
Adenocarcinoma of the stomach: areas of failure in a re-operation series (second or symptomatic look) clinicopathologic correlation and implications for adjuvant therapy.

Abstract Following initial “curative” operative procedures for gastric carcinoma, 107 patients had planned single or multiple re-operations at the University of Minnesota. Later evidence of cancer was found in 86 patients at re-operation and/or other follow-up. Initial operative-pathologic extent of disease was correlated with incidence and patterns of failure. Distant metastasis (DM) alone was uncommon, but was found as a new component in 25.6 °k of the failure group. Nearly half of the peritoneal failures (PS) were localized, and when diffuse, were usually accompanied by a moderate sized local-regional failure. Local recurrence and/or regional lymph node metastasis (LF-RF) occurred as the only failure in 53.7% of the failure group if localized peritoneal failures were included, and as any component of failure in 87.8% (67.3% of the total 107 patients). Operation alone yields inadequate results for the majority of patients with gastric carcinoma. The rationale of adjuvant radiation and systemic therapy alone or in combination is discussed.
Additivity of dichromatic color matches to short-wavelength lights

The additivity of color matches to short-wavelength lights was examined in observers who behaved as red–green dichromats under the stimulus conditions used. Color matches were obtained at several luminance levels and on several different adapting backgrounds. The range of mixtures acceptable as a match and the midpoint of this range varied considerably over different conditions. However, for each observer, a set of mixtures that remained a match under all conditions could always be found. Results suggest that the additivity laws hold for these observers in the sense that there is a color match that remains a match under all conditions.
Identification of a Streptococcus sanguis Receptor for Salivary Agglutinins

The objective of this study was to characterize a fraction from oral streptococci containing receptor activity for salivary agglutinin molecules. Several species and strains of streptococci were disrupted in a Ribi press. The supernatant was nuclease-treated and subjected to differential centrifugation. Receptor activity in the fractions was measured by the inhibition of saliva-mediated bacterial aggregation. In addition, bacterial strains were tested for their ability to aggregate and to deplete saliva of agglutinin activity. Three patterns of activity were observed: Streptococcus sanguis M5 depleted saliva of agglutinin activity and aggregated well; Streptococcus sanguis CC5A depleted saliva of agglutinin but did not aggregate well; and Streptococcus faecalis S-161 neither depleted saliva of agglutinin nor did it aggregate. The 105,000 g supernatant fractions derived from Ribi-disrupted Streptococcus sanguis M5 and CC5A, but not from Streptococcus faecalis, showed dose-dependent inhibition of saliva-med...
Together in Spirit: Keeping Our Relationships Alive When Loved Ones Die

The premise of this article is that it can be adaptive to maintain bonds with loved ones who have died . The article describes 5 useful strategies for connecting with the deceased , which include recognizing the ways in which the deceased leave an imprint upon our lives , deriving a sense of meaning from the deceased's life , using objects that symbolically link us to persons who have died , identifying ceremonial opportunities for including the deceased in our lives , and reviewing the deceased's life story . Following discussion of these strategies , implications for counseling and outreach are briefly addressed . Finally , discussion focuses on how acknowledging our bonds with the deceased has the potential to aid us in confronting our own mortality .
Inhibition of peridural fibrosis after laminectomy using low-dose external beam radiation in a dog model.

Objective Clinical studies have demonstrated a significant association between the presence of extensive postlumbar discectomy peridural scar formation and the recurrence of low back and radicular pain. Low-dose perioperative radiation therapy has previously been demonstrated to inhibit peridural fibrosis after laminectomy in a rat model. The current study was designed to measure the effect of low-dose radiation on postlaminectomy peridural fibrosis development in a larger animal model. Methods Three dogs underwent a total of 12 lumbar hemilaminectomies. For each animal, two levels received 1) external beam radiation 24 hours before surgery, 2) surgery alone, or 3) radiation alone. Radiation was administered in a single fraction of 700 cGy using computed tomographic guidance for dosimetry planning. The isodose distribution was such that the dose conformed to the posterior epidural space with minimal exit dose to normal tissue. Port films were used to confirm the correct levels. Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spines was obtained before the animals were killed 12 weeks after surgery. The spines were harvested, and axial sections through the laminectomy defect were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and Masson's trichrome. All specimens were evaluated for extent of fibrosis along the dura, density of fibrosis, nerve root entrapment, and sublaminar fibrosis. Results There were no complications from the surgery, and no new neurological deficits were noted. There was a statistically significant difference between the irradiated and nonirradiated groups regarding the extent of fibrosis (P = 0.001) and the density of fibroblasts (P = 0.001). There was also a marked difference in nerve root entrapment (P = 0.182) and the presence of sublaminar fibrosis (P = 0.061) between the treatment and control groups. MRI revealed less gadolinium enhancement at the irradiated levels compared with the nonirradiated levels, confirming the usefulness of MRI in predicting the degree of epidural fibrosis. Conclusion Low-dose external beam radiation therapy administered 24 hours before laminectomy in a dog model significantly decreased the extent and density of peridural fibrosis as well as nerve root entrapment and sublaminar fibrosis. This treatment strategy may be efficacious in patients with recurrent radicular pain after lumbar discectomy that is thought to be secondary to peridural fibrosis on the basis of gadolinium-enhanced MRI studies, and who might benefit from reoperation for nerve root decompression.
Has electricity regulation resulted in higher prices: comment

A response to a 1975 article by Charles Moore on the economic effects of utility regulation suggests that Moore's correlations may be false. The authors fault the narrow perspective of Moore's model, its failure to account for state and local taxes, and his calculations of price and regulatory input. They find a positive relationship between utility revenues and increased regulatory input. They also note positive relationships between revenues and taxes and with economies of scale and declining-block rates. 5 references. (DCK)
Alkaptonuria and ochronotic arthritis

Summary A report is presented on two cases of alkaptonuria in which characteristic radiological changes were found.
Flicks of government flacks: The sequel

Abstract This supplements the analysis of cinematic depictions of government public relations professionals published in PRR in 2001. Of seven additional films, the government PR professional is white, male, and an employee of the federal government or a police department. Sometimes their work was of questionable truthfulness or helpfulness.
A comparison of the fenfluramine-induced serotonergic syndrome in rats subacutely treated with either saline or D-amphetamine.

Summary The purpose of this study was to assess the activity of the serotonergic transmitter system in vivo in rats previously exposed to repeated injections of either saline or d -amphetamine. To do so, components of the serotonin syndrome, as induced by various doses of fenfluramine, were scored both before and after a 15-day subacute regimen with these agents. Fenfluramine caused hindlimb abduction, forepaw padding, and straub tail behaviors to be expressed in both groups of animals within 30 min after dosing; little or no activity with respect to these behaviors was seen in either regimen during the 30–60 or 60–90 min intervals. However, body-shaking behavior was consistently observed in both treatment groups during each observation period. No differences in the serotonergic syndrome as a whole or in the expression of each individual component of the syndrome (i.e., hindlimb abduction, straub-tail, forepaw padding, body shakes) were noted either between or within regimens before or after subacute saline or d -amphetamine treatment. Thus, the previously observed decrement in fenfluramine's food intake suppressant action, which resulted from subacute d -amphetamine treatment, is not likely to be due to gross alterations in the central serotonergic system.
An asymptotic symmetry of the rapidly forced pendulum

Abstract The inhomogeneous differential equation x″ + sinx = δ sin(t + t0)/ϵ describes the motion of a sinusoidally forced pendulum. The orbits that connect the two saddle points of the unforced (δ = 0) pendulum are called separatices. If ϵ = O (1) , then one can use Melnikov's method to show that these separatrices can split for weak forcing (δ ⪡ 1), and that the perturbed motion is chaotic. If ϵ ⪡ 1, Melnikov's method fails because the perturbation term is not analytic in ϵ at ϵ = 0. In this paper we show that for δ ⪡ 1 and ϵ ⪡1, the solution of the perturbed problem exhibits a symmetry to all orders in an asymptotic expansion. From the asymptotic expansion it follows that the separatrices split by an amount that is at most transcendentally small. This proof differs from that of Holmes, Marsden and Scheurle.
Growth Inhibition by Nitrocompounds of Selected Uric Acid-Utilizing Microorganisms Isolated from Poultry Manure

The overall objective of this study was to evaluate the potential ability of nitrocompounds to reduce ammonia volatilization by inhibiting uric acid-utilizing microorganisms. Experiment I was conducted to evaluate the effects of nitrocompounds on the growth of uric acid-utilizing microorganisms isolated from poultry manure during six-hour incubation. There were five treatments: (1) control, (2) 50 mM nitroethane, (3) 50 mM nitroethanol, (4) 50 mM nitropropanol, and (5) 50 mM nitropropionic acid. Optical density values of nitrocompounds were significantly lower than that of control at two, four, and six hours. Plate counts of uric acid-utilizing microorganisms after six-hour incubation exhibited that nitrocompounds greatly reduced the growth of these microorganisms except for the nitroethane (P < 0.05). The nitropropanol and nitropropionic acid treatments showed significantly higher inhibitory effects compared to the nitroethanol. Experiments II and III were conducted to evaluate inhibitory effects of nitrocompounds on growth of uric acid-utilizing microorganisms compared to non-nitrocompounds such as ethanol, propanol, and propionic acid. Experiments II and III consisted of seven treatments: (1) control, (2) nitroethanol, (3) nitropropanol, (4) nitropropionic acid, (5) ethanol, (6) propanol, and (7) propionic acid. The incubation times of Experiments II and III were 6 and 24 h, respectively. The nitrocompounds were significantly more successful in inhibiting growth of uric acid-utilizing microorganisms compared to those non-nitrocompounds. These results suggest that nitrocompounds exhibit potential to reduce ammonia volatilization in poultry manure by inhibiting growth of uric acid-utilizing microorganisms.
In situ SERS study of Rhodamine 6G adsorbed on individually immobilized Ag nanoparticles

We report a study on polymer-mediated immobilization of non-aggregated Ag nanoparticles on planar glass substrates and the resultant surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity using Rhodamine 6G (R6G) as a model molecule. Ag colloidal solution with an average particle diameter of 70 nm was prepared by citrate reduction of AgNO3 using the Lee-Meisel method, and subsequent fractionation by filtration. A self-assembled polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH) monolayer was employed as the intermediate polymer layer. We have shown that the coverage density of Ag nanoparticles on the glass substrates correlates with the amount of adsorbed PAH. This parameter can be easily controlled by varying the pH and ionic strength during polymer deposition. The highest coverage density was obtained for the polymer deposition from buffer solutions at pH 9.0, which additionally contained 0.25 M NaCl. The SERS-active substrates were robust and stable in 0.5 M NaCl solutions, as well as under extreme acidic and basic conditions. The glass substrates with immobilized non-aggregated Ag nanoparticles exhibited SERS enhancement and provided in situ detection sensitivity of R6G at 5 ppt level, with estimated surface coverage of two to four R6G molecules per silver particle. We found that adsorption of R6G in the presence of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine-N′-(2-ethanesulfonic acid) (HEPES) buffer resulted in complete inhibition of photodecomposition of adsorbed R6G molecules. Studies of the effect of sodium chloride on the SERS activity of the glass substrates with individually attached nanoparticles showed that chloride anions resulted in a two to threefold increase in SERS intensity. Our approach has enabled the isolation of chloride-activated SERS enhancement from contributions arising from nanoparticle aggregation. The observed SERS enhancement in salt solutions results from coadsorption of chloride ions by the silver surface, and manifests itself in changing of orientation of adsorbed R6G molecules. The observed enhancement was reversed by exposing the substrate to 514-nm laser radiation, which resulted in the cleavage of AgCl bonds. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Consumption rates and predatory habits of Scoloposcelis mississippensis and Lyctocoris elongatus (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) on pine bark beetles

The mean consumption rate after 72 h in the laboratory of Ips grandicollis (Eichhoff) eggs by Lyctocoris elongatus (Reuter) was significantly higher ( P < 0.05) for all feeding life stages than that by Scoloposcelis mississippensis Drake and Harris. Both anthocorid species fed on bark beetle eggs, larvae, and pupae and showed evidence of cannibalism and territoriality. Adult S. mississippensis also fed on several associated insect predators and parasites of bark beetles. Fifth-instar nymphs of S. mississippensis did not differ significantly ( P < 0.05) in consumption rates for I. grandicollis and Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann eggs
Coherence therapy does not prevent axial bone loss in osteoporotic women: a preliminary comparative study.

Coherence therapy, also known as ADFR (activate, depress, free, repeat) therapy, has been proposed as a new form of treatment for osteoporosis. We compared the effects of this therapy with those of gonadal steroid and calcium and of calcium alone in 93 osteoporotic women. Thirty women were treated for 1 yr with ADFR, in the form of K-phosphate (1.5 g/day), for 3 days followed by etidronate, (400 mg/day) for 14 days, followed by 8 weeks of neither drug, plus continuous calcium carbonate therapy (1 g/day). Thirty-six women received conjugated estrogens (0.625 mg/day) for 25 days/month plus medrox-yprogesterone acetate (10 mg/day) for 10 days/month and calcium, while 27 women received calcium carbonate (500 mg, twice daily). Sixteen women in the ADFR group, 15 in the calcium group, and 19 in the hormone-calcium group completed 2 yr of treatment. Spinal bone mineral density was measured by single energy quantitative computerized tomography (QCT) and in the proximal and distal radius by single energy photon ab...
Hypertension as a risk factor for renal disease. Review of clinical and epidemiological evidence

Renal failure is a well-recognized complication of accelerated and malignant hypertension that can be prevented by appropriate antihypertensive therapy. The risk of renal disease in patients with milder forms of hypertension is less certain. Death certificate, insurance industry, and community-based observational studies provide little information with respect to the risk of kidney damage in the hypertensive patient. Randomized controlled trials of antihypertensive drug therapy provide equivocal results. The strongest evidence in support of the hypothesis that mild hypertension increases the risk of subsequent renal disease comes from analyses of the Hypertension Detection and Follow-up Program and the Medicare End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Program. The risk of blood pressure-related ESRD appears to be especially high in blacks, independent of age, sex, and prevalence of hypertension. Although these results need to be confirmed, the data raise the possibility that the effects of high blood pressure on the kidney are different in blacks than in whites. Based on current trends, it is projected that the number of beneficiaries in the Medicare ESRD Program will continue to increase during the next 30-40 years and that the diagnosis of hypertensive ESRD will become increasingly common. Additional studies to characterize the relation between mild hypertension and subsequent risk of renal disease and to confirm the corresponding benefits of antihypertensive therapy are urgently needed.
Kerma-Area Product in Diagnostic Radiology

W565 is traveling through air, and it is how the intensity (strength) of the x-ray beam is characterized [6]. Air kerma can be thought of as the number of individual x-ray photons per unit area, which therefore says nothing about the extent (area) of the x-ray beam. Although xray photon energies play a role in determining air kerma, this is a secondary factor that is of little interest or concern to radiologists. Air kerma is expressed in grays or milligrays. The main use of air kerma is in estimating the (peak) skin dose in interventional radiology, where there is the possibility of skin doses high enough to result in patient radiation burns [7, 8]. Knowledge of air kerma in conventional radiography and fluoroscopically guided barium studies and urologic examinations is of little interest because skin doses are generally well below the threshold doses for the induction of deterministic effects.
Bending invariants of poly-circles part I: rigidity

For a family of piecewise circular Jordan curves, we show that the curve is determined up to application of Mobius maps, by the pair of bending measured laminations on the boundary of its convex hull in the 3-dimensional hyperbolic space.