cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of conifer treatments on soil nutrient availability and plant composition in sagebrush steppe

Abstract Pinon-juniper woodlands of the western United States have expanded 2 to 10-fold since the late 1800’s. Tree control measures using chainsaws, heavy equipment and prescribed fire have been used to reduce woodlands and restore big sagebrush steppe and decrease woody fuel loading. We evaluated nutrient availability and herbaceous recovery following various cutting and prescribed fire treatments in late succession western juniper woodlands on two sites in southeast Oregon from 2007 to 2012. Sites were a cool, wet big sagebrush-Idaho fescue association (FESCUE), highly resistant to exotic annual grasses and a warm dry big sagebrush-bluebunch wheatgrass association (BLUEBUNCH), moderately resistant to annual grass invasion. Treatments were untreated controls, partial cutting followed by fall broadcast burning (SEP), cut and leave (CUT), and cut and burn in winter (JAN) and spring (APR). Soil inorganic N (NO 3 − , NH 4 + ), phosphorus (H 2 PO 4 − ), potassium (K + ), and cover of herbaceous species were measured in three zones; interspace, litter mats around the tree canopy (canopy), and beneath felled trees (debris). Following woodland cutting, the results of the various slash treatments measured significant differences through time in the availability of inorganic N, P, and K and vegetation composition. Peak nutrient availability tended to occur within the first two years after treatment. The increases in N, P, and K were greatest in severely burned debris and canopy zones of the SEP and APR treatments. Invasive annual grass cover was positively correlated to soil inorganic N concentrations. Herbaceous composition at the FESCUE site was generally resistant to annual grasses after juniper treatments and native plants dominating post-treatment even in highly impacted debris and canopy zones of the SEP treatment. The BLUEBUNCH site was less resistance and resilient, thus, exotic annual grasses were a major component of the understory especially when tree and slash burning was of high fire severity. To lessen these impacts requires slash burning be applied from late fall to early spring, when fuel moisture and relative humidity are higher, to maintain an adequate perennial herbaceous composition for recovery.
Genus Aconitum in Slovakia: a phenetic approach

Comprehensive investigation on herbarium material was realized and taxonomical structure of the genus Aconitum in Slovakia has been ascertained on the base of phenetic analysis. Three new taxa (i.e. A. degenii subsp. degenii, A. moldavicum subsp. hosteanum, and A. moldavicum nothosubsp. confusum stat. nov.) were rediscovered for this region, and for one of them the new status was proposed. Morphological variation of A. anthora and its subdivision onto infraspecific taxa (subsp. anthora and subsp. jacquinii) are discussed. The new key for identification and maps of distribution are represented.
Thermal Conductivity of Diamond Gems and CVD Diamond Films: Temperature and Isotopic Composition Dependence

In order to investigate the reported high thermal conductivity (k) of isotopically pure 12C diamonds [1], we have measured k(T) of two synthetic gems of different isotopic compositions: (A) 1.1% 13C and (B) 0.04% 13C between 300 K and 550 K. The resultant k(T) data are shown in Fig. 1(a) (triangles) together with k(T) for natural Type IIa diamond from the literature [2]. Analysis of k(T) data was based on a comprehensive Klemens-Callaway model. The resultant phonon-impurity scattering contribution for the Type IIa data is within the uncertainty of Berman’s previous analysis [2]. The attenuation of k with increasing 13C concentration for our synthetic gem data (Fig. 1) can be attributed to the influence of the impurity term alone.
A $K\text{-}/Ka$ -Band Concurrent Dual-Band Single-Ended Input to Differential Output Low-Noise Amplifier Employing a Novel Transformer Feedback Dual-Band Load

A concurrent dual-band single-ended input to differential output (single-ended-to-differential) low-noise amplifier (LNA) employing a novel transformer feedback single-ended-to-differential dual-band load is proposed. The developed LNA topology is flexible in controlling the stopband notch frequency by optimizing the transformer’s self-inductance and coupling coefficient. It also has a unique advantage in controlling both the stopband rejection and passband gain balance, simultaneously. The LNA is designed using a 0.18- $\mu \text{m}$ BiCMOS process and exhibits the same single-ended-to-differential peak gains of 19.2 dB at 21.5 and 36 GHz in the low- and high-passband, respectively, with the stopband rejection ratio of 37.1 dB. In the single-ended input to single-ended output (single-ended) mode operation, the designed LNA exhibits the measured peak gains of 15.7/16.6 dB at 21.5 GHz and 15.7/16.7 dB at 36 GHz for the two signal paths. It achieves the best measured single-ended noise figures of 4.3/4.0 and 4.3/4.2 dB for the two signal paths in the respective low and high passbands. The LNA also attains the measured differential gain and phase imbalances of 0.9/1.0 dB and 0.5/10.4 degree in the low/high passband, respectively. This LNA is the first concurrent dual-band single-ended-to-differential LNA integrated on-chip operating in ${K}$ - and Ka -band.
Design and delivery of a new clinical reasoning course.

Abstract Background and purpose Teaching students therapeutic knowledge is not the same as teaching them how to reason through clinical problems. It was determined a new approach was necessary to close the gap between classroom learning and clinical application. Educational activity and setting A stand-alone clinical reasoning course was developed to enhance students’ ability to think about and solve clinical problems. This course involved a variety of active-learning strategies based upon literature regarding clinical reasoning. Findings The objective of this study was to determine if a clinical reasoning course influenced student perceptions on evolution of their thinking and learning strategies and ways to improve. Thematic analysis of midpoint student reflections (n = 133) revealed eight different themes of how students perceived evolution of their thinking. Top themes were approaching a problem (n = 76), evaluating information (n = 62), and efficiency (n = 44). Thematic analysis of final student reflections (n = 138) included two categories: thinking and improvement. Reflections related to evolvement of thinking revealed five themes, the top three of which were approaching a problem (n = 89), holistic (n = 55), and efficiency (n = 46). Reflections of improvement revealed four themes, the top two of which were continue applying (n = 74) and communication (n = 23). Discussion The themes indicate that students began to understand clinical reasoning as a set of skills necessary to become an effective practitioner. Conclusions A novel course designed to develop clinical reasoning skills can help students evolve their perception of thinking and learning strategies and engage them in a process for the application of knowledge to patient care.
CHROMATOGRAPHY: LIQUID | Mechanisms: Reversed Phases

The principles of reversed-phase chromatography are reviewed. How the properties of the analyte the mobile phase and the stationary phase influence retention is discussed in more detail using the state of knowledge at the time of this writing.
Detection of Heat Injury in Listeria monocytogenes Scott A

Methods of detecting live pathogens in foods that may be growth inhibited following heat treatment are essential to food safety. Among the techniques available, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) amplification of messenger RNA from heat-injured Listeria monocytogenes Scott A is preferable to direct PCR in an attempt to avoid false positives from dead cells. The RT-PCR has a detection limit of 3 × 106 CFU/g, compared to 3 CFU/g for untreated controls, but may not be suitable for the identification of all viable cells. Physically apparent changes in cellular structures from heat injury in L. monocytogenes are expected to result. Ultrastructural analyses did depict notable heat damage as cytoplasmic clearing after 5 min at 60°C. The heat-injured survivors can be readily distinguished from total viable cells using selective media. As a result, combinations of molecular and visual methods including selective media improve detectability of heat-injured, viable L. monocytogenes Scott A.
Genome-wide Map of R-Loop-Induced Damage Reveals How a Subset of R-Loops Contributes to Genomic Instability.

Summary DNA-RNA hybrids associated with R-loops promote DNA damage and genomic instability. The capacity of hybrids at different genomic sites to cause DNA damage was not known, and the mechanisms leading from hybrid to damage were poorly understood. Here, we adopt a new strategy to map and characterize the sites of hybrid-induced damage genome-wide in budding yeast. We show that hybrid removal is essential for life because persistent hybrids cause irreparable DNA damage and cell death. We identify that a subset of hybrids is prone to cause damage, and the chromosomal context of hybrids dramatically impacts their ability to induce damage. Furthermore, persistent hybrids affect the repair pathway, generating large regions of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) by two distinct mechanisms, likely resection and re-replication. These damaged regions may act as potential precursors to gross chromosomal rearrangements like deletions and duplications that are associated with R-loops and cancers.
Adapting summary scores for the PROMIS-29 v2.0 for use among older adults with multiple chronic conditions

The patient-reported outcomes measurement information system 29-item profile (PROMIS-29 v2.0) is a widely used health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measure. Summary scores for physical and mental HRQoL have recently been developed for the PROMIS-29 using a general population. Our purpose was to adapt these summary scores to a population of older adults with multiple chronic conditions. We collected the PROMIS-29 v2.0 for 1359 primary care patients age 65+ with at least 2 of 13 chronic conditions. PROMIS-29 has 7 domains, plus a single-item pain intensity scale. We used exploratory factor analysis (EFA), followed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), to examine the number of factors that best captured these eight scores. We used previous results from a recent study by Hays et al. (Qual Life Res 27:1885–1891, 2018) to standardize scoring coefficients, normed to the general population. The mean age was 80.7, and 67% of participants were age 80 or older. Our results indicated a 2-factor solution, with these factors representing physical and mental HRQoL, respectively. We call these factors the physical health score (PHS) and the mental health score (MHS). We normed these summary scores to the general US population. The mean MHS for our population of was 50.1, similar to the US population, while the mean PHS was 42.2, almost a full standard deviation below the US population. We describe the adaptation of physical and mental health summary scores of the PROMIS-29 for use with a population of older adults with multiple chronic conditions.
Repeat kidney biopsy for lupus nephritis: an important step forward.

There is scant controlled data to guide the use of repeat kidney biopsies to guide therapy in glomerular disease. De Rosa et al. assessed the value of a repeat biopsy during remission in estimating the risk of subsequent relapse of lupus nephritis. They demonstrated the feasibility of a per-protocol repeat biopsy study with prespecified subsequent therapy. Their results will inform the design of future studies of repeat biopsies in lupus nephritis and other kidney diseases.
Amygdala GABA Neurons Project To vlPAG And mPFC.

Abstract The amygdala regulates multiple behaviors and emotions by projecting to multiple brain regions. However, the topographical distribution of amygdala neurons projecting to specific brain areas is still unclear. In the present study, we focus on determining whether single amygdala neurons project to the brain stem ventrolateral periaqueductal grey (vlPAG) and to the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). The mPFC neurons are involved in detecting emotional content while the vlPAG neurons are involved in regulating muscle tone. In VGAT-Cre mice a cre-inducible retrograde AAV tracer expressing tdTomato was microinjected into the ventrolateral periaqueductal grey matter (vlPAG), while a second retrograde AAV tracer with generic expression of GFP was delivered into the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). The results identified a subgroup of bifurcating GABAergic neurons in the central nucleus (CeA) and basolateral amygdala (BLA) that projects to vlPAG and mPFC. Based on these projections we suggest that amygdala GABA neurons may be involved in triggering emotionally-induced cataplexy in the sleep disorder, narcolepsy.
The three-spined stickleback, Gasterosteus aculeatus Linnaeus 1758, plays a minor role as a host of Lepeophtheirus salmonis (Krøyer 1837) in the Gulf of Maine.

The sea louse, Lepeophtheirus salmonis (Kroyer 1837), is a significant parasite of farmed salmon throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Management of on-farm louse populations can be improved by understanding the role that wild fish play in sustaining and providing refuge for the local population of sea lice. In this study, 1,064 sticklebacks were captured. Of these animals, 176 individuals were carrying a total of 238 sea lice, yielding a prevalence and intensity of 16.5% and 1.4 lice per fish, respectively. Detailed examination of the sea lice on the three-spined sticklebacks captured in Cobscook Bay found two L. salmonis individuals using three-spined sticklebacks as hosts. A 2012 survey of wild fish in Cobscook Bay, Maine, found multiple wild hosts for Caligus elongatus (von Nordmann 1832), including three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus L.), but no L. salmonis were found in this earlier study.
An Exploratory Examination of Neonatal Cytokines and Chemokines as Predictors of Autism Risk: The Early Markers for Autism Study.

Abstract Background The identification of an early biomarker for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) would improve the determination of risk, leading to earlier diagnosis and, potentially, earlier intervention and improved outcomes. Methods Data were generated from the Early Markers for Autism study, a population-based case-control study of prenatal and neonatal biomarkers of ASD. Newborn bloodspots of children with ASD (n = 370), children with developmental delay (n = 140), and general population (GP) controls (n = 378) were analyzed for 42 different immune markers using a Luminex multiplex platform. Comparisons of immune marker concentrations between groups were examined using logistic regression and partial least squares discriminant analysis. Results Children with ASD had significantly increased neonatal levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-8 compared with GP controls. An increase in IL-8 was especially significant in the ASD group with early onset compared with the GP group, with an adjusted odds ratio of 1.97 (95% confidence interval, 1.39–2.83; p = .00014). In addition, children with ASD had significantly elevated levels of eotaxin-1, interferon-γ, and IL-12p70 relative to children with developmental delay. We observed no significant differences in levels of immune markers between the developmental delay and GP groups. Conclusions Elevated levels of some inflammatory markers in newborn bloodspots indicated a higher degree of immune activation at birth in children who were subsequently diagnosed with ASD. The data from this exploratory study suggest that with further expansion, the development of neonatal bloodspot testing for cytokine/chemokine levels might lead to the identification of biomarkers that provide an accurate assessment of ASD risk at birth.
Paracrine Modulation of Mechanotransduction

Abstract Interactions between skeletal muscle and bone have mostly been studied for their mechanical and physical interdependence. Given the close spatial relationship between bone and muscle, the emerging field of bone-muscle crosstalk has been investigating whether bones and muscles interact not only mechanically but also biochemically. Growing evidence demonstrates that muscle and bone are endocrine organs. They produce and secrete “hormone-like factors” by which each tissue can influence each other as well as other tissues. Bone produces and secretes factors that can modulate myogenesis and muscle function, which we have called “osteokines.” Here we will summarize recent progress in bone to muscle signaling and the use of biomaterials in the regeneration of bone via the ability to release inorganic species that can induce biomineralization.
Using an evidence-based triage algorithm to reduce 90-day mortality after primary debulking surgery for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact of an evidence-based triage algorithm to decide between primary debulking surgery (PDS) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval debulking surgery (NACT/IDS) for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Methods Surgical morbidity and mortality (M/M) after PDS for stage IIIC-IV EOC at Mayo Clinic after implementation of the triage algorithm (contemporary cohort, 2012-July 2016) were compared to that of a historic PDS cohort (2003−2011). Results Mean age of the 232 women who met inclusion criteria in the contemporary cohort was 63.9 years. We observed a 71% decrease in 90-day mortality from 8.9% to 2.6% (P = 0.002) between the contemporary and historic cohorts. Accordion grade 3+ postoperative complications within 30 days after surgery decreased from 22.3% to 18.3% (P = 0.19). Among those with a grade 3+ complication, 90-day mortality rates decreased from 28.3% in the historic cohort to 2.4% in the contemporary cohort (P Conclusions Use of the Mayo triage algorithm for EOC was associated with reduced 90-day mortality after PDS and improved oncologic outcomes. Surgical risk assessment is a critical aspect of treatment planning in the primary management of EOC and should be incorporated into practice.
Non-sequential augmentation strategies to address separation in logistic regression

Previous research on small sample multi-factor D-optimal designs for the logistic regression model has demonstrated that these designs are prone to encountering separation, a phenomenon where the responses are completely or quasi-completely separable by a hyperplane in the design space. Separation causes the non-existence of maximum likelihood parameter estimates and represents a serious problem for model fitting purposes. In this paper, several non-sequential design augmentation strategies, where additional experimental trials are performed following an initial experiment that has encountered separation, are investigated. Small local and Bayesian D-optimal initial designs are generated for several representative logistic regression models, and a Monte Carlo simulation methodology is then used to investigate the effectiveness of each augmentation strategy in eliminating separation. Results of the simulation study show that augmenting design runs (trials) in regions of maximum prediction variance (MPV) is the most effective strategy for eliminating separation. However, MPV augmentation tends to produce designs with lower D-efficiencies. The paper illustrates that MPV augmentation reliably eliminates separation and can be used in practice to obtain usable parameter estimates for the logistic regression model.
Individualized metabolomics: opportunities and challenges

The goal of advancing science in health care is to provide high quality treatment and therapeutic opportunities to patients in need. This is especially true in precision medicine, wherein the ultimate goal is to link disease phenotypes to targeted treatments and novel therapeutics at the scale of an individual. With the advent of -omics technologies, such as genomics, proteomics, microbiome, among others, the metabolome is of wider and immediate interest for its important role in metabolic regulation. The metabolome, of course, comes with its own questions regarding technological challenges. In this opinion article, I attempt to interrogate some of the main challenges associated with individualized metabolomics, and available opportunities in the context of its clinical application. Some questions this article addresses and attempts to find answers for are: Can a personal metabolome (n = 1) be inexpensive, affordable and informative enough (i.e. provide predictive yet validated biomarkers) to represent the entirety of a population? How can a personal metabolome complement advances in other -omics areas and the use of monitoring devices, which occupy our personal space?
Beryllium doped semi-insulating GaN without surface accumulation for homoepitaxial high power devices

Semi-insulating GaN films with controlled dopant profiles have significant potential to improve the performance of high-power electronics. Beryllium doped GaN (GaN:Be) films previously demonstrated a semi-insulating nature, but the Be-dopant profiles in these films exhibited Be surface segregation and accumulation, which would lead to undesired leakage current paths in devices and deterioration of breakdown voltage. Improved growth kinetics of metal modulated epitaxy at low growth temperatures are applied in the study of GaN:Be films to achieve selectively controlled and abrupt step-doped Be profiles. The GaN:Be films were found to be semi-insulating via Hall effect measurements at elevated temperatures of 495 K. The films were shown to effectively electrically compensate surface contaminants at regrowth interfaces. Surface contaminants (O, Si, and C) typically result in unintentional n-type doping at the GaN on GaN regrowth interface. In order to demonstrate the utility of Be doping, GaN:Mg p-type films are grown atop GaN:Be buffer, AlN buffer, and control samples without any insulating buffer on GaN:Fe templates. Remarkably, the p-type films grown atop control samples up to 400 nm thick are compensated from surface contaminants, whereas the films grown atop AlN and GaN:Be insulating layers effectively electrically neutralize the surface contaminants and result in high hole concentrations of 2.3 and 2.5 × 1019 cm−3, respectively. The use of GaN:Be instead of AlN buffers eliminates the need to deconvolve the effects of the AlN/GaN 2D sheet charges and defects from lattice mismatch, removes lateral conduction paths, and reduces inherently high static vertical electric fields that detract from power device performance.
The moral mosaic: A factor structure for predictors of moral behavior

Abstract This study examines and reduces 34 scales from the moral literature, spanning self-strategies, self-awareness, philosophical outlooks, ethical judgments, and affective states. The battery, together with the HEXACO traits and two self-report measures of moral behavior, was completed by 449 college students. Factor analysis yielded six factors, termed the Moral Mosaic: moral agency, dogmatism, empathy, avoidant emotionality, moral reductionism, and depth. The factors predicted measures of unethical decisions and prosocial donation. Moral agency and dogmatism negatively predicted unethical decisions, whereas empathy positively predicted and dogmatism negatively predicted prosocial donation. For future use, the battery was reduced to 63 items capturing the 6 factors with similar predictive validity. Both long- and short-form factor models explained variance in the behavior measures not accounted for by the HEXACO traits.
FAROS: A Framework to Analyze OpenMP Compilation Through Benchmarking and Compiler Optimization Analysis.

Compilers optimize OpenMP programs differently than their serial elision. Early outlining of parallel regions and invocation of parallel code via OpenMP runtime functions are two of the most profound differences. Understanding the interplay between compiler optimizations, OpenMP compilation, and application performance is hard and usually requires specialized benchmarks and compilation analysis tools.
Ballistic lobar trajectory outcomes in civilian firearm penetrating brain injury.

OBJECTIVE Penetrating brain injury (PBI) is the most lethal of all firearm injuries, with reported survival rates of less than 20%. The projectile trajectory (PT) has been shown to impact mortality, but the significant lobar tracks have not been defined. The aim of this retrospective case-control study was to test for associations between distinct ballistic trajectories, missile types, and patient outcomes. METHODS A total of 243 patients who presented with a PBI to the Saint Louis University emergency department from 2008 through 2019 were identified from the hospital registry. Conventional CT scans combined with 3D CT reconstructions and medical records were reviewed for each patient to identify distinct PTs. RESULTS A total of 65 ballistic lobar trajectories were identified. Multivariable regression models were used, and the results were compared with those in the literature. Penetrating and perforating types of PBI associated with bitemporal (t-statistic = -2.283, p = 0.023) or frontal-to-contralateral parietal (t-statistic = -2.311, p = 0.025) projectile paths were universally found to be fatal. In the group in which the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score at presentation was lower than 8, a favorable penetrating missile trajectory was one that involved a single frontal lobe (adjusted OR 0.02 [95% CI 0.00-0.38], p = 0.022) or parietal lobe (adjusted OR 0.15 [95% CI 0.02-0.97], p = 0.048). Expanding or fragmenting types of projectiles carry higher mortality rates (OR 2.53 [95% CI 1.32-4.83], p < 0.001) than do nondeformable missiles. Patient age was not associated with worse outcomes when controlled by other significant predictive factors. CONCLUSIONS Patients with penetrating or perforating types of PBI associated with bitemporal or frontal-to-contralateral parietal PTs should be considered as potential donor candidates. Trauma patients with penetrating missile trajectories involving a single frontal or parietal lobe should be considered for early neurosurgical intervention, especially in the circumstances of a low GCS score (< 8). Surgeons should not base their decision-making solely on advanced patient age to defer further treatment. Patients with PBIs caused by nondeformable types of projectiles can survive multiple simultaneous intracranial missile trajectories.
On a method for the representation of the normal state of the lower atmosphere in the extratropics, and its applications

Theoretical reasons for considering the temporal, zonal and time-and-zone root mean square values of meteorological parameters as their normal values in the extratropics are given. Using geostrophic relative vorticity (ζ g ) data for the Northern Hemisphere Extratropics for four months typical of the four seasons it is shown that the time averages of the zonal root mean square values of ζ g — calledK — are useful in determining the normal locations and other properties of extratropical jet streams.
9. Lactate Dehydrogenase as a Marker of Ovarian Torsion

Background Ovarian torsion is a clinical diagnosis, as physical exam and imaging are typically variable and nonspecific. However, ovarian torsion is an emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention. Currently there are no laboratory tests that reliably assist in the diagnosis of ovarian torsion. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is routinely used as a marker of potential malignancy in patients with ovarian masses, but has never been studied as a tool to aid in the diagnosis of ovarian torsion. Given that LDH has been shown to be a marker of tissue necrosis in other emergent conditions such as myocardial and bowel infarction, the use of LDH as a marker for ovarian torsion is plausible. This study is the first to address the potential association between elevated LDH and ovarian torsion. Methods A retrospective chart review of female patients under 21 years old who underwent operative management of ovarian masses was performed at a large academic children's hospital. Patients were identified using hospital operative records over a 15 year period. Patients were included if they had undergone any surgery for ovarian mass and had preoperative LDH drawn within 2 days of operative procedure. Preoperative symptoms, preoperative ultrasound findings, intraoperative findings including the presence or absences of ovarian torsion, and pathology were recorded. Univariate and multivariable analyses were completed. Results 302 charts were reviewed and 50 met inclusion criteria. Of those included, 13 (26%) had intraoperative evidence of ovarian torsion and 37 (74%) did not. Most had benign final pathology, although 9 (18%) had borderline or malignant tumors. None of the cases with borderline or malignant tumors had intraoperative findings of ovarian torsion and the mean preoperative LDH was 2124 units/liter (SD 4158, 95% CI 0-4842). For patients without evidence of borderline tumors or malignancy on pathology, there was a statistically significant (p=0.005) difference in preoperative LDH with mean LDH of 250 units/liter (SD 97, 95% CI 197-303) and 168 units/liter (SD 38, 95% CI 154-182) for ovarian torsion and no evidence of ovarian torsion, respectively (Figure 1). In patients with torsion and lower than expected LDH (n=3), there were no significant differences in preoperative symptoms, ultrasound findings of size and character of mass, or final pathology compared to those with torsion and elevated LDH; the same was true for patients without torsion and higher than expected LDH (n=7) compared to those without torsion and lower LDH. Conclusions LDH can be mildly elevated in cases of ovarian torsion with ovarian mass. Further research, including prospective studies are needed to validate use of LDH in the emergency setting for the diagnosis of ovarian torsion.
Regional and Seasonal Trends in Tropical Ozone from SHADOZ Profiles: Reference for Models and Satellite Products 9 October 2021

Support is gratefully acknowledged from the NASA Upper Air Research Program (K. W. Jucks, Program Manager), S-NPP and JPSS (J. F. Gleason, Project Scientist) and the NASA Post-doctoral Program to RMS. We are grateful to O. R. Cooper (CIRES/NOAA-CSL) and W. Randel (NCAR) for helpful comments.
Multispectral IR imaging systems

With advances in optical material design, it is now possible to expand the waveband for IR imaging systems. This paper will focus on evaluating and comparing optical designs that use newer materials that have been developed from NRL (Naval Research Labs), and materials that are readily available material to design. A 3x zoom lens will be used for these comparisons to determine if there is a reduction in the size, weight and power of the lens system.
Spent Nuclear Fuel and Graphite Management for Salt-Cooled Reactors: Storage, Safeguards, and Repository Disposal

The fluoride salt–cooled high-temperature reactor (FHR) is a new reactor type that combines the graphite-matrix coated-particle fuel and graphite moderator from high-temperature gas-cooled reactors...
Reading Billy: Memory, Time, and Subjectivity in The Collected Works of Billy the Kid

In The Collected Works of Billy the Kid , as in much of Michael Ondaatje's work, identity loses diachronic stability with each historical, critical, or reminiscently interpretive reading. The fragments which appear without authorial identification remind us that truth is something we have to guess at; in many cases in the volume, the missing identifiers could refer to either Billy the Kid or Pat Garrett. Ondaatje's discontinuous blend of myth, reminiscence, and occasional fact become, for the reader, a tangible demonstration that time, memory, and subjectivity are inescapable culprits in obscuring our view of the past.
Kirshner on White Dwarfs, Supernovae, and Cosmology

This paper is a brief report on Bob Kirshner’s talk at the conference. He made several principal points which are of interest to scientists who investigate white dwarf stars and binary systems containing white dwarfs. First, a lot of knowledge about the Universe is being hung on Type Ia supernovae. We have no really adequate picture of what stars make them. The class itself may not be a homogeneous class. While no one has definitively identified any physical cause that may make present-day type Ia supernovae different from those that went off 5–7 Gyr ago, there have been suggestions. There may yet be some systematics in the supernova data which will at least question the claimed precision of the current consensus regarding a cosmological model. Most importantly, even if all of the cosmological probes give us the same answer, we should not be satisfied with our current understanding of supernovae. They are important for their own sake.
The oral administration of sodium ISO-amylethyl barbiturate (sodium amytal) in labor

Abstract 1. 1. Oral administration of sodium amytal in labor is probably just as satisfactory as by the intravenous route. 2. 2. The difference of only a few minutes in rapidity of action when given orally as compared with the intravenous administration is not sufficient to influence its effect in labor, except in the most stormy labors. 3. 3. The depth of narcosis depends rather on the dose employed than on the method of administration. 4. 4. Labor has apparently not been prolonged nor have operative deliveries increased. No postpartum hemorrhages have occurred. 5. 5. No untoward effect on the baby has been noted. 6. 6. Marked variations in susceptibility occur and there may be definite idiosyncrasies. For this reason the patient should be carefully watched during the period of narcosis and blood pressure readings taken regularly. 7. 7. Complete amnesia and a moderate amount of analgesia can be obtained in the vast majority of cases. The anesthesia cannot be relied upon. 8. 8. The initial dose probably must be as large as fifteen grains and a total of thirty grains during labor may be administered with comparative safety. 9. 9. Restlessness is probably the greatest drawback to the use of sodium amytal in labor and apparently occurs in the majority of cases. Our experience is that this is no more marked where administration is oral than where the intravenous route is chosen. 10. 10. As this work is based on only fifty cases, further work is necessary to establish the proper dosage, method of administration, the desirability of combinations with other drugs, and finally, to evaluate its worth in the relief of the pains of labor.
On Breaking the Iterated Merkle-Hellman Public-Key Cryptosystem

In 1976 Diffie and Hellman introduced the concept of a public-key cryptosystem [1]. In 1977 Rivest, Shamir, and Adleman discovered the first incarnation of such a system [4], and soon afterwards Merkle and Hellman produced a second one [3]. Despite the widespread interest in the area, the years have produced no other public-key cryptosystems which have attracted widespread interest.
An infrared study of the binding and photodissociation of carbon monoxide in cytochrome ba3 from Thermus thermophilus.

The C-O stretching frequencies of fully reduced carbonmonoxy cytochrome ba3, a newly discovered terminal oxidase of the bacterium Thermus thermophilus (Zimmermann, B.H., Nitsche, C.I., Fee, J.A., Rusnak, F., and Munck, E. (1988) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S. A. 85, 5779-5783), are studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Multiple C-O frequencies are observed in the Fourier transform infrared spectra, indicating the presence of discrete interconverting conformers of the enzyme. Upon photolysis, the CO is shown to migrate exclusively to CuB+. Above 200 K, the CO returns to the heme a3 by a thermal process which follows simple first-order kinetics. The rate of the reaction was studied from 205 to 230 K and at 300 K, yielding the activation parameters delta H = 14.9 kcal/mol and delta S = -5 cal/mol/K. These are compared with previously determined activation parameters for CO recombination in mitochondrial cytochrome aa3 preparations (Fiamingo, F.G., Altschuld, R.A., Moh, P.P., and Alben, J.O. (1982) J. Biol. Chem. 257, 1639-1650). We report the novel finding that CO remains bound to CuB+ at room temperature during continuous photolysis of cytochrome ba3, and we conjecture on the possible interference of copper-bound CO in "flow-flash" and "triple-trap" studies of cytochrome c oxidases.
Anomalous diffusion, spontaneous localizations and the correspondence principle

We show that the equivalence between quantum and classical physics can be obtained, in the proper limit, by using arguments of ordinary statistical mechanics. It is argued that conditions of statistical mechanics as non ordinary as anomalous diffusion might produce the breakdown of this equivalence
The products of intertextuality: The value of student adaptations in a literature course

The essay explores a pedagogy of adaptation that focuses on examining intertextuality and engaging students in textual production through the creation of an adaptation. The paper discusses the success of assigning an adaptation project in an upper-level, third-year literature course taught at a small university. It examines student adaptations of writings by William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Samuel Richardson, Henry Fielding, Mary Shelley, and Ben H. Winters and of existing film adaptations of Sense and Sensibility and Frankenstein. I link student projects to critical concepts such as re-vision and multimodality, and disciplines such as literary studies and the digital humanities. I also analyze how the projects reflect students' interests in popular culture and fandom.
Vibrational spectra of high-silica glasses of the system K2OSiO2La2O3

Abstract Parallel and perpendicular-polarized Raman spectra and KBr transmission IR spectra of glasses of the compositions 10K2O·50SiO2−nLa2O3 (n = 0, 1, 5, 10 mol) and (10−x) K 2 O −50 SiO 2 −( x 3 ) La 2 O 3 (x = 0, 6, 7.5) are presented. Increasing lanthanum concentration in glasses with fixed K:Si produces partially polarized high-frequency bands at 1030, 940 and 860 cm−1, in order of appearance. These are assigned to the symmetric stretching modes of SiO bonds in SiO4 tetrahedra containing 1, 2 and 4 non-bridging oxygens, respectively, whose non-bridging oxygens coordinate with lanthanum. Since no disilicate or metasilicate crystals occur in the La2O3SiO2 binary, lanthanum coordinates with silicate anions in glasses inaccessible to it in binary silicate crystals. Lanthanum forms coordination polyhedra of non-bridging oxygen without the aid of potassium; therefore, the solution chemistry of lanthanum in these glasses is governed by homogeneous equilibria between different silicate anions bonded to lanthanum. Glass-glass phase separation of 10K2O50SiO210La2O3 when heated to 900°C indicates that these homogeneous equilibria produce regions within the glass relatively rich in LaOSi bonds but depleted in SiOSi linkages.
Relationship between impairments and gait performance after stroke: a summary of relevant research

Abstract This review was undertaken to describe the relationship between clinical measures of impairment and gait performance in patients with stroke. Twenty-four studies were analysed. Four major gait variables and five major impairments were identified. Strength of the paretic lower extremity and standing balance were found consistently to be correlated with gait performance. These variables therefore represent appropriate targets for evaluation and treatment in patients with stroke.
Extracellular matrix regulates the hepatocellular heat shock response.

Abstract Background. Cirrhosis is characterized by the accumulation of collagen within the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the liver and progressive hepatocellular dysfunction. Since recent studies have shown that the ECM can modulate cellular function, we examined whether the ECM could contribute to hepatocellular dysfunction. To address this question we examined hepatocyte behavior in two different ECM environments. Materials and methods. Primary rat hepatocytes were cultured as a monolayer on collagen or as multicellular aggregates (spheroids) within a laminin-rich ECM. Hepatocytes were then compared for viability, response to proinflammatory cytokines, and their capacity to activate a heat shock response and adopt a thermotolerant phenotype. In addition, we compared the ability of prior heat shock exposure to protect hepatocytes from tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α/actinomycin-D-induced apoptosis in the two different ECM environments. Results. Hepatocytes cultured as a monolayer on collagen exhibited decreased viability, underwent spontaneous apoptosis, and displayed an attenuated cytokine-stimulated nitric oxide production compared to hepatocytes cultured as spheroids. In response to heat, hepatocytes in both ECM environments expressed inducible heat shock protein 70 (hsp72). But, only the hepatocyte spheroids exhibited thermotolerance in response to a subsequent thermal challenge. In contrast to previous reports, induction of the heat shock response failed to protect hepatocytes against TNFα-induced apoptosis. Conclusions. These data demonstrate that the ECM can play an integral role in specific hepatocellular behaviors. Furthermore, the progressive deposition of collagen within the ECM, which is characteristic of fibrotic liver diseases, may directly contribute to the progressive hepatocellular dysfunction observed in cirrhosis. Hepatocellular viability, response to proinflammatory cytokines, heat shock response, and thermotolerance were all altered depending on the composition of the ECM. In contrast, TNFα-induced apoptosis was independent of the composition of the ECM.
What imaging studies are necessary to determine outcome after ureteroneocystostomy

AbstractPurpose: After ureteroneocystostomy we have performed renal ultrasonography within the first 3 months to exclude hydronephrosis, voiding cystography after 3 months to exclude vesicoureteral reflux and subsequent ultrasonography to monitor the upper tracts. This study attempted to determine those patients at risk for hydronephrosis or recurrent vesicoureteral reflux.Materials and Methods: We studied the records of patients who underwent ureteroneocystostomy in the last decade at our institutions to find the incidence and degree of preoperative and postoperative hydronephrosis and vesicoureteral reflux. Results of initial postoperative imaging were compared to radiological imaging throughout followup (mean 2.3 years). Patients with postoperative reflux were evaluated for risk factors that differentiated them from others.Results: Excluding patients with neuropathic bladder or ureterocele, 167 underwent 278 ureteroneocystostomies at a mean followup of 26.5 months. Persistent vesicoureteral reflux was ...
Microbiological synthesis of wax esters by euglena gracilis

Euglena gracias (ATCC 12716) grown on yeast-malt extract medium synthesized wax esters. Saturated even-numbered acids and alcohols (C12 to C18) were major con-stituents, with traces of odd-numbered fatty acids and alcohols. Tetradecanoic acid and tetradecanyl alcohol were the predominant components, and tetradecanyl tetradecanoate was the predominant wax ester.
Prospective randomized comparative study of low-profile balloon gastrostomy tubes in children.

Background: Supplemental enteral nutrition through gastrostomy tubes is well established in children, but prospective studies comparing different tubes remain lacking in this population. The study aimed at comparing different aspects related to the use of low-profile balloon gastrostomy tubes in children. Materials and Methods: The authors prospectively studied the use of 2 tube types—tube A (MIC-Key gastrostomy tube; Ballard Medical Products, Draper, UT) and tube B (MINI One gastrostomy tube; Applied Medical Technology, Brecksville, OH)—in a cohort of children in a crossover study design. Children were randomly assigned to 1 tube type for 4 months, followed by the other tube type for the next 4 months. Patients were evaluated at enrollment and at 4 and 8 months, with monitoring phone calls at 2 and 6 months. Variables measured included caregiver satisfaction, tube-related complications, and device durability. Results: Twenty-one patients were included in the study. Infection rate (range, 4.8%–5.0%) and o...
SU-FF-T-29: Dose to the Physician's Extremity During I-125 Prostate Seed Implant Using a Commercial Loading Device

Purpose: To evaluate a physician's extremity (mainly finger) dose during clinical I‐125 prostate seed implants (PSI) using a Mick® loading device. Method and Materials: To establish the location of radiation leakage “hot‐spots” a piece of XV radiographic film was wrapped around an applicator loaded with a cartridge containing 15 I‐125 seeds each with air‐kerma strength of 0.44 U. A phantom assembly was developed to simulate the geometry of the interface between the user's hand and this “hot‐spot”. A piece of radiographic film was placed in the assembly to simulate the location of the user's finger relative to the “hot‐spot” and exposed directly or through 1 or 2 layers of radiographic glove material.Results: The exposure rate was found to be highest directly below the cartridge, probably due to the presence of small openings in the loader through which body fluids are meant to drain. This location is typically in contact with the physician's finger. For a fully loaded cartridge (15 seeds, air‐kerma strength of 0.44 U per seed) it was found that the dose‐rate on the surface of the finger is 2.4, 1.1 and 0.4 cGy/hr with 0, 1, and 2 layers of lead glove material, respectively, between the finger and cartridge. A theoretical calculation of the dose‐rate in this geometry gives similar results. Conclusion: For a volume of 150 PSI cases per year with 120 seconds of finger contact at the “hot‐spot” per case, the annual dose to the surface of the finger is expected to be on the order of 12, 5.6, and 2 cGy when the physician wears no gloves, 1 pair, or 2 pairs of gloves, respectively, well within maximum permissible limits for an extremity. This dose can be effectively reduced to zero if the implant needles are manipulated with no finger contact at the “hot‐spot”.
Reliability evaluation of a shut down system Part 1. Component models

Abstract A model is developed to calculate the time dependent probability of a hazard for components used in a shut down system. A protective system is characterized by two random variables: (I) demand for protective action and (ii) equipment failure. Since the failures are unannounced, the system is periodically tested. A Markov model is developed and closed form formulae are obtained for various state probabilities.
Synthesis and Polymerization of Heterobifunctional Amphiphiles to Cross-Link Supramolecular Assemblies

The cross-linking of supramolecular assemblies of hydrated amphiphiles is an effective method to stabilize the assembly. A well-known strategy for cross-linking of lipids in lyotropic phases is the...
Information Architecture in Library and Information Science Curricula

L'architecture de l'information (AI) concerne l'organisation de l'information, les technologies de l'information, l'utilisabilite et les etudes d'utilisateurs, la recherche d'information et la gestion des connaissances. L'A. examine de quelle maniere l'enseignement de l'AI est integre dans les programmes educatifs americains, et met cet enseignement en relation avec la situation du marche du travail, au vu des diplomes, de l'experience, des competences et des responsabilites demandes. Il est encore trop tot pour determiner si le marche evoluera en faveur des architectes de l'information, en depit d'un enthousiasme certain.
Self-assembled organic monolayers: model systems for studying adsorption of proteins at surfaces

Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of ω-functionalized long-chain alkanethiolates on gold films are excellent model systems with which to study the interactions of proteins with organic surfaces. Mon...