cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Verbal Learning Mediates the Relationship Between Executive Functions and a Laboratory Task of Medication Management in HIV Disease

OBJECTIVE Impairments in executive functions and learning are common in HIV disease and increase the risk of nonadherence to antiretroviral therapy. The mixed encoding/retrieval profile of HIV-associated deficits in learning and memory is largely driven by dysregulation of prefrontal systems and related executive dysfunction. This study tested the hypothesis that learning may be one pathway by which executive dysfunction disrupts medication management in people living with HIV (PLWH). METHOD A total of 195 PLWH completed a performance-based laboratory task of medication management capacity and clinical measures of executive functions, verbal learning and memory, and motor skills. RESULTS Executive functions were significantly associated with verbal learning and medication management performance. In a model controlling for education, learning significantly mediated the relationship between executive functions and medication management, and this mediation was associated with a small effect size. In particular, executive dysfunction was associated with diminished use of higher-order learning strategies. Alternate models showed that executive functions did not mediate the relationship between learning and medication management nor did motor skills mediate the relationship between executive functions and medication management. CONCLUSIONS PLWH with executive dysfunction may demonstrate difficulty in learning new information, potentially due to ineffective strategy use, which may in turn put them at a higher risk for problems managing their medications in the laboratory. Future studies may wish to investigate whether compensatory neurocognitive training (e.g., using more effective learning strategies) may improve medication management among PLWH.
Numerical simulation of rolling pad instability in cuboid liquid metal batteries

The rolling pad instability is caused by electromagnetic interactions in systems of horizontal layers with strongly different electric conductivities. We analyze the instability for a simplified model of a liquid metal battery, a promising device for large-scale stationary energy storage. Numerical simulations of the flow and the dynamics of electromagnetically coupled interfacial waves are performed using OpenFOAM. This work confirms the earlier conclusions that the instability is a significant factor affecting the battery’s operation. The critical role played by the ratio between the density differences across the two interfaces is elucidated. It is found that the ratio determines the stability characteristics and the type (symmetrically or antisymmetrically coupled) of dominant interfacial waves.
Coronary blood vessels from distinct origins converge to equivalent states during mouse and human development

Abstract Most cell fate trajectories during development follow a diverging, tree-like branching pattern, but the opposite can occur when distinct progenitors contribute to the same cell type. During this convergent differentiation, it is unknown if cells “remember” their origins transcriptionally or whether this influences cell behavior. Most coronary blood vessels of the heart develop from two different progenitor sources—the endocardium (Endo) and sinus venosus (SV)—but whether transcriptional or functional differences related to origin are retained is unknown. We addressed this by combining lineage tracing with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) in embryonic and adult mouse hearts. Shortly after coronary development begins, capillary ECs transcriptionally segregated into two states that retained progenitor-specific gene expression. Later in development, when the coronary vasculature is well-established but still remodeling, capillary ECs again segregated into two populations, but transcriptional differences were related to tissue localization rather than lineage. Specifically, ECs in the heart septum expressed genes indicative of increased local hypoxia and decreased blood flow. Adult capillary ECs were more homogeneous and lacked indications of either lineage or location. In agreement, SV- and Endo-derived ECs in adult hearts displayed similar responses to injury. Finally, scRNAseq of developing human coronary vessels indicated that the human heart followed similar principles. Thus, over the course of development, transcriptional heterogeneity in coronary ECs is first influenced by lineage, then by location, until heterogeneity disappears in the homeostatic adult heart. These results highlight the plasticity of ECs during development, and the validity of the mouse as a model for human coronary development.
Interactive effects of homeowners’ environmental concerns and rebate incentives on preferences for low-input residential landscapes

Abstract Incorporating partial turfgrass and micro-irrigation into traditional residential landscapes with predominantly turfgrass lawns has the potential to conserve water and reduce fertilization needs. However, homeowner-led conversions to partial turfgrass lawns are not common, and financial incentive programs offering rebates for turfgrass lawn modification are one of the mechanisms used to encourage conversion at the household level. To investigate the main determinants of single-family homeowners’ lawn conversion decisions, this study incorporated the interactive effects of rebate incentives and environmental concerns in a discrete choice experiment conducted in Central Florida. Results from the latent class mixed logit model showed that conservation programs are more effective for households with greater environmental concerns when supplemented with financial incentives. Specifically, although rebate incentives did not significantly influence participants’ choices in the overall sample, we found that participants in the environment-oriented segment (classified using a latent segmentation model) did prefer landscape designs that incorporated rebate incentives. Implications for relevant stakeholders are discussed.
Information bounds in determining the 3D orientation of a single emitter or scatterer using point-detector-based division-of-amplitude polarimetry.

Determining the 3D orientation of a single molecule or particle, encoded in its polar and azimuthal angles, is of interest for a variety of fields, being relevant to a range of questions in elementary chemical reactivity, biomolecular motors, and nanorheology. A popular experimental method, known as division-of-amplitude polarimetry, for determining the real-time orientation of a single particle is to split the emitted/scattered light into multiple polarizations and to measure the light intensity using point detectors at these polarizations during a time interval Δt. Here, we derive the Cramer–Rao lower bounds for this method from the perspective of information theory in the cases of utilizing a chromophore or a scattering particle as a 3D orientation probe. Such Cramer–Rao lower bounds are new for using this experimental method to measure the full 3D orientation in both the scattering case and the fluorescence case. These results show that, for a scatterer, the information content of one photon is 1.16 deg−2 in the polar and 58.71 deg−2 in the azimuthal angles, respectively. For a chromophore, the information content of one photon is 2.54 deg−2 in the polar and 80.29 deg−2 in the azimuthal angles. In addition, the Cramer–Rao lower bound scales with the square root of the total signal photons. To determine orientation to an uncertainty of one degree requires 7.40 × 104 and 2.34 × 103 photons for the polar and the azimuthal angles, respectively, for fluorescence, whereas it takes 1.62 × 105 and 3.20 × 103 photons for scattering. This work provides experimentalists new guidelines by which future experiments can be designed and interpreted.
Medical Student Engagement in Extracurricular Activities

The aim of this study was to explore engagement of pre-clerkship students in extracurricular activities (ECAs). College student involvement in ECAs has been of interest in education for decades. Although graduating medical students are asked about participation in activities and residency program directors are surveyed yearly regarding considerations in decisions for selecting candidates for interview and ranking, few details are available about medical student engagement in ECAs. A survey was completed by 204 pre-clerkship students regarding extent of, reasons for, and positive/negative effects of extracurricular involvement. A majority of students (70 %) participated in 2–5 ECAs; 4 % reported no involvement, with wide variation regarding average amount of time spent per week in ECAs, 29 % reported 0–1 h, 40 % reported 2–3 h per week, and 12 % spent 6–10+ h. Community service, career exploration, and advocacy were the most frequently reported ECAs. Increased stress was reported more frequently by leaders/officers than by those who were engaged as members. Engagement of pre-clerkship students in ECAs is prevalent, with wide variation relating to types of activities and extent of engagement. Student engagement in ECAs has implications for medical education relating to admissions and orientation programs, academics, preparation for graduate training, and curriculum development. Therefore, it is worthwhile to reflect on benefits and/or disadvantages of participation. More exploration is needed to determine if results from one school are typical.
Chapter 7 CW Beam Processing of Gallium Arsenide

Publisher Summary The mechanism that could produce annealing of ion implanted amorphous layers in gallium arsenide (GaAs) at low temperatures is solid phase epitaxial regrowth. While this process is well characterized in silicon, it is much less well understood in GaAs. Recently, however, solid phase epitaxial recrystallization in GaAs has been observed at different laboratories using a well-controlled, precisely defined ion implantation schedule. These results are presented in this chapter with their limitations. CW laser processing of GaAs has made a more significant contribution as a means of reacting deposited thin films with the underlying substrate. Laser alloying of thin metallic film to n–GaAs has resulted in alloyed ohmic contacts that are significantly better than conventional thermally alloyed contacts. A scanned CW laser can assist the diffusion and activation of tin in semi-insulating GaAs from a SnO 2 /SiO 2 thin film source. This process produces thin n + layers that display excellent ohmic behavior directly after metal evaporation.
Spontaneous Mutation and Recombination Among Brucellaphages

Merz, George S. (University of Wisconsin, Madison), and Joe B. Wilson. Spontaneous mutation and recombination among brucellaphages. J. Bacteriol. 91:2356-2361. 1966.-Two plaque morphology variants, as seen on Brucella abortus 544A, termed c (for clear plaque) and lc (for late-clearing plaque) were isolated from stocks of wild-type brucellaphage and from colonies of B. abortus 544A which had undergone an alteration in colonial morphology associated with the establishment of the phage carrier state. Single-burst experiments showed that the phage variants arise by spontaneous mutation of the wild-type phage during its replication on B. abortus strain R19. Two-factor crosses of independently occurring c mutant phages showed the presence of wild-type recombinants among the progeny. Control experiments showed that there are no strong selective forces against either wild-type or c mutant phage inherent in the cross-procedure. Other control experiments ruled out the possibility that wild-type phage in the cross-progeny resulted from either back mutation of the c mutants or the presence of wild-type phage among the input c mutants.
Ionospheric disturbances observed coincident with the 2006 and 2009 North Korean underground nuclear tests

[1] Acoustic-Gravity Waves (AGWs) in the neutral atmosphere can induce disturbances in the ionosphere that are subsequently observable in trans-ionospheric Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements. Disruptive events on the Earth's surface, such as earthquakes, tsunamis and large explosions are one source of these disturbances. In this study, we apply wavelet analysis to enhance a cross-correlation technique for detecting the presence of ionospheric disturbances in dual frequency GNSS time series collected from the GEONET (Japan) during the North Korean Underground Nuclear Tests (UGTs) conducted on 9 October 2006 and 25 May 2009. Through use of the wavelet coherence analysis, we are able to find significant wave trains in the Integrated Electron Content (IEC) data collected from the network. Low frequency disturbances, with periods between 3 and 12 min and horizontal propagation speeds between 75 and 453 m/s were found coincident with both the 2006 and 2009 events. High frequency disturbances, with periods between 2 and 5 min and horizontal speeds between 297 and 1322 m/s were found only after the 2009 event. The disturbances extracted from these signals showed propagation speeds, directions, and times of arrival coincident with the reported geographic location and times of the UGTs.
Modal analysis and control of flexible manipulator arms

The possibility of modeling and controlling flexible manipulator arms was examined. A modal approach was used for obtaining the mathematical model and control techniques. The arm model was represented mathematically by a state space description defined in terms of joint angles and mode amplitudes obtained from truncation on the distributed systems, and included the motion of a two link two joint arm. Three basic techniques were used for controlling the system: pole allocation with gains obtained from the rigid system with interjoint feedbacks, Simon-Mitter algorithm for pole allocation, and sensitivity analysis with respect to parameter variations. An improvement in arm bandwidth was obtained. Optimization of some geometric parameters was undertaken to maximize bandwidth for various payload sizes and programmed tasks. The controlled system is examined under constant gains and using the nonlinear model for simulations following a time varying state trajectory.
A Solvent Extraction-Liquid Scintillation Method for Assay of Uranium and Thorium in Phosphate-Containing Material

A method utilizing solvent extraction coupled with liquid scintillation spectrometry has been developed for the assay of uranium and thorium in fertilizers and phosphate-containing minerals and chemicals. Trioctylphosphine oxide in toluene is used to extract uranium and thorium from a perchloric and nitric acid solution, with phosphate interference being suppressed by the addition of aluminum ion. The uranium and thorium are stripped from this solution, and uranium is separated from the thorium by selective reextraction of uranium into a scintillator with Adogen 364 (tertiary amine) sulfate. The thorium remaining in the aqueous is reextracted into another scintillator with (primary) 1-nonyldecylamine sulfate. Both nuclides are counted separately in a high-resolution liquid scintillation spectrometer. The sensitivity of the counting method is enhanced by the use of pulse-shape rejection of the beta--gamma background. Results indicate a detection threshold of 0.0038 pCi of uranium (1.1 part/10/sup 8/) with a 1000-min counting time. Reproducibility of +- 2.5% was found at the 50-ppM level. For thorium detection, thresholds are 4 part/10/sup 13/ for the same counting time with +- 3.0% average recovery of /sup 230/Th and 7 part/10/sup 8/ of /sup 232/Th.
Yeast base excision repair: Interconnections and networks

The removal of oxidative base damage from the genome of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is thought to occur primarily via the base excision repair (BER) pathway in a process initiated by several DNA N-glycosylase/AP lyases. We have found that yeast strains containing simultaneous multiple disruptions of BER genes are not hypersensitive to killing by oxidizing agents, but exhibit a spontaneous hyperrecombinogenic (hyper-rec) and mutator phenotype. The hyper-rec and mutator phenotypes are further enhanced by elimination of the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway. Furthermore, elimination of either the lesion bypass (REV3-dependent) or recombination (RAD52-dependent) pathway results in a further, specific enhancement of the hyper-rec or mutator phenotypes, respectively. Sensitivity (cell killing) to oxidizing agents is not observed unless multiple pathways are eliminated simultaneously. These data suggest that the BER, NER, recombination, and lesion bypass pathways have overlapping specificities in the removal of, or tolerance to, exogenous or spontaneous oxidative DNA damage in S. cerevisiae. Our results also suggest a physiological role for the AP lyase activity of certain BER N-glycosylases in vivo.
Proton-antiproton scattering near threshold

Recent experiments and theoretical conjectures suggest the presence of unusual features in antiproton-proton scattering near elastic threshold. We have analyzed the content of three classes of simplified phenomenological models of\(\overline {\text{p}} \)-p scattering in the very-lowmomentum region (Plab≲350 MeV/c). The models show striking differences in the expected threshold behavior of cross-sections and the slope of the forward scattering peak. We find that the published data strongly favor a class of resonance-dominance models which possess some features of the dual-resonance spectrum. Models with smoothed absorptive amplitudes and those which emphasize structure below threshold would be ruled out. The analysis presented here makes it possible to discriminate between models on the basis of gross features of the data and to interpret systematically the consequences for a choice of model by using new data as they become available. We present a brief discussion of the apparent non-S-wave behavior near threshold in terms of possible longer-range forces in the\(\overline {\text{p}} \)-p system, and discuss the usefulness of several types of further experiments on\(\overline {\text{p}} \)-p in the lowmmomentum region.
Organization and genesis of dihydrofolate reductase amplicons in the genome of a methotrexate-resistant Chinese hamster ovary cell line.

Abstract We have recently isolated overlapping recombinant cosmids that represent the equivalent of two complete dihydrofolate reductase (dhfr) amplicon types from the methotrexate-resistant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell line CHOC 400. In the work described in this report, we used pulse-field gradient gel electrophoresis to analyze large SfiI restriction fragments arising from the amplified dhfr domains. The junction between the 260-kilobase type I amplicons (which are arranged in head-to-tail configurations in the genome) has been localized, allowing the construction of a linear map of the parental dhfr locus. We also show that the 220-kilobase type II amplicons are arranged as inverted repeat structures in the CHOC 400 genome and arose from the type I sequence relatively early in the amplification process. Our data indicate that there are a number of minor amplicon types in the CHOC 400 cell line that were not detected in previous studies; however, the type II amplicons represent ca. 75% of all the amplicons in the CHOC 400 genome. Both the type I and type II amplicons are shown to be composed entirely of sequences that were present in the parental dhfr locus. Studies of less resistant cell lines show that initial amplicons can be larger than those observed in CHOC 400. Once established, a given amplicon type appears to be relatively stable throughout subsequent amplification steps. We also present a modification of an in-gel renaturation method that gives a relatively complete picture of the size and variability of amplicons in the genome.
Neurodegeneration: Problems at the nuclear pore

Expansion of a repetitive DNA sequence is associated with neurodegeneration. Three studies identify genes involved in nuclear import and export that can mediate the toxicity this expansion causes. See Article p.56 & Letter p.129 The most common cause of the debilitating disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a hexanucleotide repeat expansion GGGGCC (G4C2) in the C9orf72 gene. Two studies in this issue use contrasting methods to arrive at a molecular mechanism that may cause a familial form of the disease. Using a candidate-based genetic screen in Drosophila expressing 30 G4C2 repeats (Ke Zhang et al.) or an unbiased genetic screen in Drosophila expressing 8, 28 or 58 G4C2 repeat-containing transcripts (Brian Freibaum et al.), the two groups sought genes that enhance or suppress the disease phenotype. Zhang et al. identify the gene encoding RanGAP, a key regulator of nucleocytoplasmic transport, and Freibaum et al. identifies genes that encode components of the nuclear pore and the nucleocytoplasmic transport machinery. Both papers show deficits in nucleocytoplasmic transport in Drosophila cells expressing G4C2 repeats and in iPSC-derived neurons from ALS patients. Zhang et al. show that these defects can be rescued with antisense oligonucleotides or small molecules targeting the G-quadruplexes.
Regulatory Potential of Fever-Range Whole Body Hyperthermia on Langerhans Cells and Lymphocytes in an Antigen-Dependent Cellular Immune Response

The febrile response is one of the most common features of infection and inflammation. However, temperature is rarely a variable in experimental immunological investigations. To determine whether the thermal microenvironment has any immunoregulatory potential in an Ag-dependent response, we applied a mild fever-range whole body hyperthermia (FR-WBH) protocol to BALB/c mice experiencing the contact hypersensitivity (CHS) reaction. We observed that the timing of this FR-WBH treatment relative to the different phases of the CHS response was crucial to the outcome. FR-WBH treatment before sensitization with a 0.5% FITC solution resulted in a depressed CHS response. This appears to be due to direct effects of FR-WBH on epidermal Langerhans cell trafficking to the draining lymph nodes. In contrast, application of FR-WBH directly after application of the elicitation dose of FITC solution resulted in an enhanced reaction. This result correlates with increased homing of lymphocytes to the site of elicitation. Overall, these data have important implications regarding the role of thermal changes experienced during infection and the clinical use of FR-WBH relative to immunotherapeutic strategies.
Putting Los Angeles in its place.

Abstract This article discusses the historical evolution of Los Angeles' social landscape and highlights its demographic transformation from a small frontier town to a metropolis. The author argues that the roots of the current segregation, racial/ethnic conflicts and socioeconomic disparities have to be sought in the last 100 years of this city's exclusionary development patterns and neighborhood differentiation. While discussing the social geography of Los Angeles County and its various racial and ethnic neighborhoods, the paper highlights some of the emergent spatial patterns and the historical processes which led to their production.
ACID‐BASE IN RENAL FAILURE: Acidosis in Chronic Renal Insufficiency

In this article we deal with three aspects of acidosis in patients with chronic renal insufficiency: clinical characteristics, pathophysiology, and therapeutic approach.
Mechanism of oxidation of nitrogen nucleophiles by peroxodisulfate ion: Nitrate ion and ammonia

Abstract The particular set of reactivities of nitrogen donors and of peroxodisulfate that make their interactions mechanistically complicated are discussed. Two reactions of this class have been studied experimentally. In the oxidation of nitrite ion by peroxodisulfate, the nitrogeneous product is nitrate. The rate law: −d[S 2 O 8 2− ] dt = k1[S2O82−] + k2[S2O82−] [NO2−] has been found. A significant change in rate on addition of allyl alcohol to the system indicates the presence of free radicals to an extent greater than can be ascribed to the k1 term alone. The possible intervention of NO2 as an intermediate has been investigated. Mechanisms for the two oxidation paths are proposed. The reaction of peroxodisulfate with ammonia and ammonium ion gives dinitrogen. Radical (but not chain) paths were found as indicated by rate law (first order in peroxodisulfate and zero order in reductant), rate constants, and activation parameters. Copper(II) catalysis by a free radical chain process occurs in the ammonia oxidation.
On iterative factorization in network analysis by digital computer

The need to determine the sum of all tree admittance products occurs in almost all applications of topological network theory. This paper describes a method of obtaining this sum through an iterative factorization of the sum of tree admittance products of successively more complex subnetworks. Computational efficiency is achieved in that: (1) it is not necessary to test sets of branches for the presence of circuits; and (2) it is not necessary to calculate each tree admittance product.A digital computer program has been developed for use on an IBM-704 which accommodates any network with complex branch admittances and up to 14 nodes. Far more complex networks may be analyzed, however, if they are first decomposed into two-terminal subnetworks. A detailed description and flow chart of the program are included.
Identification of depression in children and adolescents: the role of the dexamethasone suppression test.

The usefulness of the dexamethasone suppression test (DST) was examined in 33 consecutive inpatient admissions to a psychiatric hospital for children and adolescents. A standard DST procedure was used in which cortisol serum levels were taken at baseline and at 8:00 A.M., 4:00 P.M., and 11:00 P.M. following the administration of 1 mg of dexamethasone. Subjects also received a structured psychiatric interview, completed self-rating and personality inventories and had their charts reviewed for family history of depression. The DST was found to have a 40% sensitivity and a 92% specificity. Comparison of depressed suppressors and nonsuppressors did not reveal differences of intensity in the symptoms of depression. These groups differed in personality profiles, family histories and past history of depression. Guidelines for assessing the place of the DST in a comprehensive evaluation of depression in children and adolescents are discussed.
Prostaglandins F in uterine and ovarian venous plasma from nonpregnant and pregnant ewes collected by cannulation.

Abstract Periodic collections of uterine venous blood were obtained from three nonmated, three pregnant and two mated but nonpregnant ewes in which uterine veins were cannulated with polyvinyl tubing on day 11 postestrus. Frequent sampling was achieved in three of these ewes with additional cannulae in the ovarian veins. Blood samples were collected at 3-hr intervals from 0600 on day 12 to 1800 on day 13 and then at 6-hr intervals through day 15. On day 13, three additional samples at 30-min intervals were collected between 1400 and 1530. Prostaglandins F (PGF) in plasma were quantified by radioimmunoassay.
Treacher Collins Syndrome: Protocol Management From Birth to Maturity

Background: Management of patients with Treacher Collins syndrome is complicated and involves multiple disciplines working in concert to achieve a common outcome. This article reviews the experience at the Australian Craniofacial Unit and describes the protocol for management. Methods: Fifty patients were treated during the last 30 years. The records of these patients were reviewed to establish what interventions they required and how these fit into a protocol for management. Results: The protocol for management of Treacher Collins syndrome can be divided into 3 epochs. In the first epoch from birth to age 2, airway and feeding problems were the main focus. Four patients required tracheostomy. Of these, 1 died and the others received mandibular distraction. Hearing is evaluated and addressed early. Eleven patients (23%) required repair of a cleft palate. In the second epoch (aged 2Y12 y), speech therapy is critical as is a focus on integrating into the education system. During this epoch, reconstruction of the upper face was performed either with bone grafts or with vascularized bone flaps. Both required repeat bone grafts later. In the third epoch (aged 13Y18 y), orthognathic surgery was performed. Revision surgery and further bone grafting were performed again at around age 18. Patients reported being generally happy with their appearance and with few exceptions were able to complete education, gain employment, and feel socially accepted. Conclusions: Management of patients with Treacher Collins syndrome should be through a multidisciplinary protocol to achieve good results while minimizing confusion and unnecessary surgery.
A retrospective comparison of androgen deprivation (AD) vs. no AD among low-risk and intermediate-risk prostate cancer patients treated with brachytherapy, external beam radiotherapy, or radical prostatectomy

Purpose To examine the value of androgen deprivation (AD) in the curative treatment of low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer treated with the three major modalities: radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP), external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), and permanent prostate implantation (PI). Methods and materials During 1996–2001, 1668 patients with low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer were treated at The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Only patients with a minimum of 2 years of prostate-specific antigen follow-up were included in the analysis, and biochemical relapse-free survival (bRFS) was used as the endpoint. Patients were grouped according to treatment modality and stratified according to the use of AD. Results The overall 5-year bRFS rate was 87.8%. The 5-year bRFS rate for low-risk patients was 89% and for intermediate-risk patients was 79%. For low-risk patients, the 5-year bRFS rates by treatment modality (without AD vs. with AD, respectively) were PI: 90% vs. 93%; EBRT: 90% vs. 93%; and RRP: 89% vs. 84%. For intermediate-risk patients, the 5-year bRFS rates by treatment modality (without AD vs. with AD, respectively) were PI: 88% vs. 82%; EBRT: 81% vs. 84%; and RRP: 75% vs. 72%. None of the comparisons within risk groups or among modalities supports an increased efficacy with the use of AD. Conclusion Five-year bRFS rates in low-risk and intermediate-risk patients are not improved by the use of AD.
Effective Animal-Intervention for Long Term Care Residents

Abstract In this paper, the benefits of interactions between animals and the elderly, specifically long term care residents, are addressed. The paper presents clearly delineated steps needed to successfully introduce “live-in” animals, visiting animals and a human-animal team intervention program. Emphasis is placed on practical advice for staff and caretakers in residential settings to help promote positive, smooth transitions toward more animal-friendly and, therefore, human-friendly facilities.
Organizational Commitment in the Military: An Overview

The military needs committed service members and families. We hear this all the time, but what does it mean to be a committed service member or spouse? Committed to what? And why do we want committ...
Estimation of Molecular Acidity via Electrostatic Potential at the Nucleus and Valence Natural Atomic Orbitals

An effective approach of estimating molecular pKa values from simple density functional calculations is proposed in this work. Both the molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) at the nucleus of the...
Simultaneous segmentation of images and shapes

A novel method for simultaneous image segmentation and shape decomposition is presented. The method may be applied directly to grayscale images. The is based on the analysis of the level curves of an 'edge-strength' function which is a measure of boundaryness of the image at each point.
150-350 keV argon and neon induced X-ray emission from a Mo target

Abstract Thick molybdenum foils have been bombarded with Ne + ions within an energy range of 250–350 keV and with Ar + ions in a 150–250 keV range. The X-ray spectra have shown pronounced L X-ray lines of molybdenum. The integrated number of counts normalized to the Ar + and Ne + ion fluences as well as other experimental conditions, are presented. The molecular orbital diagram for the Ar + → Mo system shows that the Mo 3d electron may be promoted to higher shells leaving a vacancy in the L shell. Deexcitation occurs when the L vacancy is filled by an electron from the upper shells.
An Activin/Furin Regulatory Loop Modulates the Processing and Secretion of Inhibin α- and βB-Subunit Dimers in Pituitary Gonadotrope Cells

Of all ligands of the transforming growth factor β superfamily, inhibins and activins are a physiologically relevant pair that are functional antagonists of each other. Activin stimulates whereas inhibin blocks follicle-stimulating hormone biosynthesis and secretion from pituitary gonadotrope cells, and together, inhibin and activin control the pituitary gonadal axis essential for normal reproductive function. Sharing a similar β-subunit, the secretion of inhibin heterodimers (α/β) or activin homodimers (β/β) as mature bioactive ligands depends, in part, on the proteolytic processing of precursor proteins. A short loop regulatory pathway controlling precursor processing and dimer secretion was discovered. Activin stimulates endogenous inhibin α- and βB-subunit mRNA, protein, and proteolytic processing. Simultaneously, activin stimulated the proconvertase furin through a Smad2/3-dependent process. The data provide a mechanism where the regulation of furin and inhibin subunits cooperates in an important positive short feedback loop. This regulatory loop augments the secretion of bioactive mature activin B, as well as inhibin B dimers, necessary for local follicle-stimulating hormone β regulation.
Combining the Social Relations Model and behavioral genetics to explore the etiology of familial interactions

SUMMARY This review focuses on the Social Relations Model (SRM) and a genetic extension of this model as one approach for identifying the processes by which genetic factors influence familial exchanges (Kenny & La Voie, 1984). The basic SRM and its ability to decompose dyadic measures of family interaction into actor, partner and dyadic relationship effects is described followed by findings from 3 recent studies. Results indicate that much of familial interaction is in fact relationship specific, and not due to individual-level effects. We also discuss why and how the basic SRM is enriched through the incorporation of genetically sensitive designs and present results that suggest the importance of nonshared environmental contributions for both individual and dyadic level effects. Finally, directions for future family research are proposed including the use of genetically informative designs, the collection of round-robin robin data, and the incorporation of more diverse samples.
Manufacture of NdFeB permanent magnets by rapid solidification

The manufacture of NdFeB permanent magnets by consolidation of rapidly solidified material is described. The initial rapid quench is typically carried out by melt-spinning. Optimum magnetic properties are associated with the formation of a uniform, finely crystalline (<100 nm diameter) microstructure consisting primarily of the Nd2Fe14B phase. Consolidation into isotropic magnets can be achieved by either conventional polymer bonding or hot pressing to a fully dense intermetallic magnet. Aligned or anisotropic magnets can be produced by a thermomechanical deformation technique; energy products to 45 MGOe have been achieved by this method. This paper discusses the properties of the rapidly solidified NdFeB, the various consolidation techniques, microstructural data and some of the process and product advantages of the rapid solidifcation approach to manufacturing permanent magnets.
Radioactivity and Lung Cancer in Active and Passive Smokers

Toutes les varietes de tabac contiennent du Po 210 emettant des particules α et son preciseur Pb 210. Le tabac provoquerait chez les fumeurs et les non fumeurs vivant avec des fumeurs des cancers, par ce mecanisme
In-class multitasking and academic performance

The omnipresence of student-owned information and communication technologies (ICTs) in today's college classrooms presents educational opportunities but can also create learning problems. Specifically, multitasking with these technologies can interfere with the learning process. Indeed, research in cognitive science shows that there are clear performance decrements when trying to attend to two tasks at the same time. This study examines the frequency with which students multitask during class using a large sample (N=1,839) and examines the relationship between multitasking and academic performance as measured by actual overall semester grade point average (GPA). Students reported frequently text messaging during class but reported multitasking with other ICTs to a lesser extent. Furthermore, only social technologies (Facebook and text messaging) were negatively related to GPA.
Catheter-direct thrombolysis versus pharmacomechanical thrombectomy for treatment of symptomatic lower extremity deep venous thrombosis.

Abstract Background Rheolytic mechanical thrombectomy using the AngioJet catheter (Possis Medical, Minneapolis, MN) has been shown to be effective in the treatment of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Additional infusion of thrombolytic agents via the device creates a novel treatment strategy of pharmacomechanical thrombectomy (PMT), which further enhances thrombectomy efficacy. The purpose of the current study was to compare the treatment outcome in patients with symptomatic DVT who underwent either catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) or PMT intervention. Methods During a recent 8-year period, clinical records of all patients with symptomatic lower leg DVT undergoing catheter-directed interventions were evaluated. Patients were divided into 2 treatment groups: CDT or PMT. Comparisons were made with regards to the treatment outcome between the 2 groups. Results A total of 93 patients who underwent 98 catheter-directed interventions for DVT were included in the study. Among them, CDT or PMT was performed in 46 (47%) and 52 (53%) procedures, respectively. In the CDT group, complete or partial thrombus removal was accomplished in 32 (70%) and 14 (30%) cases, respectively. In the PMT cohort, complete or partial thrombus removal was accomplished in 39 (75%) and 13 (25%) cases, respectively. Venous balloon angioplasty and/or stenting in the CDT or PMT groups was necessary in 36 (78%) and 43 (82%), respectively (difference not significant [NS]). Patients in the CDT groups underwent a mean of 2.5 venograms during the hospital course, in contrast to 0.4 venograms per patient in PMT cohorts (P Conclusions PMT with adjunctive thrombolytic therapy is an effective treatment modality in patients with significant DVT. When compared to CDT, this treatment provides similar treatment success with reduced ICU, total hospital length of stay, and hospital costs.
Calcium dynamics underlying the myogenic response of the renal afferent arteriole

The renal afferent arteriole reacts to an elevation in blood pressure with an increase in muscle tone and a decrease in luminal diameter. This effect, known as the myogenic response, is believed to...
One approach to the return to residency for anesthesia residents recovering from opioid addiction.

Abstract Study Objective There is a high rate of relapse among anesthesia residents attempting to re-enter clinical anesthesia training programs after completing treatment for opioid addiction. Individuals may return to clinical practice after a short period of treatment only to relapse into active addiction, and for the opioid addicted anesthesia resident, this often results in death. The objective of this study was to determine weather or not a period of time away from clinical practice after treatment would reduce the rate of relapse by allowing the individual to concentrate on recovery in the critical first year after treatment, during which the majority of relapses occur. Design 5 residents identified as being addicted to a controlled substance were removed from residency training and offered treatment. Prior to returning to residency training they were required to complete a post-treatment program involving no less than 12 months of work in the anesthesia simulator, followed by a graded re-introduction into the clinical practice of anesthesia. Setting Academic anesthesia practice in a large teaching hospital. Results Of the 5 residents who participated in the program, 3 (60%) successfully completed their residency program and their 5 year monitoring contract, and entered the anesthesia workforce as attending anesthesiologists. Conclusions The treatment of addicted physicians can be successful, and return of the highly motivated individual to the clinical practice of Anesthesiology is a realistic goal, but this reintroduction must be undertaken in a careful, stepwise fashion. A full understanding of the disease process, the potential for relapse, and the implications of too rapid a return to practice must be taken into careful consideration.
Rearrangements of Functions on a Locally Compact Abelian Group and Integrability of the Fourier Transform

Abstract We find in this paper the equimeasurable hulls and kernels of some function classes on a locally compact abelian group. These classes consist of all functions for which the Fourier transform belongs to a given Lorentz space on the dual group. Different special cases of the problems considered in this paper have been originally studied by Hardy, Littlewood, Hewitt, Ross, Cereteli, and the author.
Surgical management of ventricular septal defects complicating myocardial infarction.

Ventricular septal rupture is an infrequent but often catastrophic complication of acute myocardial infarction. Occasional patients can be treated conservatively until an interval of 3–4 weeks postinfarct, a propitious time for surgical repair of the septal defect. However, the vast majority of patients who sustain interventricular septal rupture will not survive more than a few days unless the problem is dealt with promptly and definitively. The techniques for successfully closing postinfarct interventricular septal defects (VSD) are now at hand, and markedly improved results of emergency surgical closure have resulted from the application of these techniques. In anterior or apical defects secondary to acuteanterior myocardial infarction, the technique of closing the VSD by approximation of the septum to the right ventricular wall with Teflon® felt buttressing, or the technique of apical amputation, has resulted in a high rate of success, even in patients requiring operation less than 3 weeks after infarction. However, only recently have techniques been developed which yield similarly successful results in patients after acuteinferior infarction with a posteriorly placed VSD. Recent experience has indicated that prosthetic fabric replacement of the septum, ventricular free wall, or both is necessary for permanent closure of posterior VSD's. The use of prosthetic fabric in this manner allows for maintenance of left ventricular volume but, most importantly, prevents tearing out of sutures used to close the defect or the ventriculotomy itself because of undue tension on the friable myocardium. One of the most gratifying aspects of the treatment of patients after septal rupture is the dramatic palliation which is achieved by successful closure of the VSD. Virtually all surviving patients achieve the status of New York Heart Association functional Class 1 or Class 2.
Evaluation of the transport in the Goddard Space Flight Center three‐dimensional chemical transport model using the equivalent length diagnostic

Transport and mixing in the extratropical stratosphere of the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) three-dimensional (3-D) chemical transport model (CTM) are evaluated using the modified Lagrangian-mean diagnostic. The normalized equivalent length squared (ξ) has been calculated from simulated N 2 O and CH 4 distributions using two different wind data sets and has been compared with that calculated from observations by the CLAES satellite instrument. There is generally good agreement, indicating that the CTM realistically simulates the location and seasonal evolution of mixing regions/ barriers in the extratropical lower and middle stratosphere. Differences that occur between the CTM fields and observations at high latitudes in winter and spring can be attributed to interannual variability in polar meteorology. There are also some differences in northern summer: the CTM series shows regions of high ξ in the extratropics that are not observed in ξ from CLAES. These high values occur where there is small-scale variability in N 2 O in regions with very weak meridional gradients. Comparison of ξ from isentropic tracer simulations using the same wind fields as used in the 3-D CTM show good agreement except during the summer. The isentropic tracers do not have as much small-scale variability as the 3-D CTM tracer fields, indicating that the enhanced small-scale structures in the CTM N 2 O, and high values of ξ, are produced by small-scale horizontal variability in the vertical motions. The fact that vertical motions can influence summer values of ξ means that these ξ fields cannot be interpreted in terms of quasi-horizontal mixing.
Infection of mesothelial cells with human herpes virus 8 in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients with Kaposi's sarcoma, Castleman's disease, and recurrent pleural effusions.

Recurrent pleural effusions are common complications of hospitalized patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and may pose difficult diagnostic dilemmas. A common cause of recurrent pleural effusions in up to 30% of HIV-seropositive patients is pulmonary involvement by Kaposi's sarcoma, a human herpesvirus 8 (HHV 8)–related neoplasm. The pathogenesis of these effusions is unclear. These recurrent effusions, although benign, have shown significant mesothelial atypia/reactive changes of uncertain etiology. We attempted to evaluate these effusions morphologically and molecularly for the presence of HHV 8, with particular attention to mesothelial cells. All recurrent pleural effusions, as defined by any effusion tapped for cytological examination on more than two occasions, in HIV-positive patients at the National Institutes of Health were examined from 1998 to the present. Cases were stratified according to patients with and without histologically confirmed HHV 8 disease manifestations. Five patients with HHV 8 diseases (four with disseminated Kaposi's sarcoma and one with Castleman's disease) were identified. As a control group, five effusions from HIV-seropositive patients without known HHV 8–related diseases were identified. Cytological examination of effusions in patients with HHV 8–related diseases demonstrated atypical/markedly reactive mesothelial cells accompanied by a polymorphous background of lymphocytes. Molecular studies for B- and T-cell clonality in microdissected whole samples showed no definitive clones in these cases. Conversely, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) studies for the HHV 8 virus was positive in these samples. PCR studies on pure populations of microdissected mesothelial cells from the HHV 8–related effusions were positive for HHV 8 sequences, whereas those from HIV patients with non-HHV 8 related diseases were negative. Immunohistochemistry for HHV 8 (monoclonal antibody to latent nuclear antigen (LNA-1; ORF-73) on cellblock material demonstrated scattered positive mesothelial cells in three of the five cases of HHV 8–associated effusions. HHV 8 has been recently implicated in the pathogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma and primary effusion lymphoma. Mesothelial cells in recurrent pleural effusions from patients with Kaposi's sarcoma and Castleman's disease appear to be infected with HHV 8. Additional studies need to be done to define the role of mesothelial cell infection in the pathogenesis of these HHV 8–associated effusions and define the prognostic significance.