cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The impact of the basic skin cancer triage curriculum on providers' skills, confidence, and knowledge in skin cancer control.

Background. Primary care providers (PCPs) are in the unique position of being able to deliver preventive health care services to the majority of the general population. Early detection of skin cancer may reduce mortality, but many PCPs do not participate in skin cancer control activities due to lack of training and confidence. We sought to evaluate the effect of a 2-h, Basic Skin Cancer Triage (BSCT) curriculum in overcoming these barriers. Methods. A convenience sample of 28 primary care providers participated in a 2-h training curriculum. Assessments included skills (evaluated by a 20-item slide quiz), confidence, knowledge, and attitudes measured pre- and post training. Results. Provider ability to accurately diagnose and triage lesions significantly improved (46 to 64%, P < 0.0001, and 61 to 71%, P < 0.0001, respectively). The greatest improvement in triage ability occurred in providers ability to appropriately reassure patients about lesions (49 to 70%, P < 0.0001). There were also significant improvements in both knowledge of skin cancer control practices (68 to 74% correct answers, P = 0.026) and confidence in ability to provide skin cancer preventive services (2.95 to 4.13 on a 1 to 5 scale, P < 0.0001). Conclusions. Participation in the BSCT curriculum may improve providers' diagnostic and triage accuracy of skin cancer as well as increase their knowledge of skin cancer and confidence in their provision of skin cancer control activities. Defining the full potential impact of this curriculum requires further evaluation.
Visual kinematics III: transformation of spatiotemporal coordinates in motion

The perceived spatial distances between visual objects moving with the same velocity shrink along the direction of motion. The distance-in-motion to distance-at-rest ratio decreases as a function of physical velocity and, for a given physical velocity, as a function of parameters increasing perceived velocity. This eNect (Space Contraction in Motion) implies that spatiotemporal coordinates and motion vectors are assigned to visual objects in an interdependent way, reflecting the fundamental structure of visual space-time. This structure can be described by non-Galileian transformations of spatiotemporal coordinates of visual objects in visual motion. The transformations are linear in coordinates, but do not obey the Galileian relativity principle (there is a privileged, absolutely resting system of coordinates), and they do not form a uniparametric (Lorentz) group with respect to velocity. Nor do they necessarily imply that perceived time intervals, and/or perceived simultaneity, must change in motion too. Visual deformations-in-motion are a complex mixture of geometric transformations and changes in color/brightness distribution due to visual integration-interaction mechanisms. Changes in spatial resolution of moving acuity targets (including moving verniers) cannot be derived from the geometric transformations only; one has to specify in addition detection rules and the logical order of geometric and distributional changes.
Sorting noisy data with partial information

In this paper, we propose two semi-random models for the Minimum Feedback Arc Set Problem and present approximation algorithms for them. In the first model, which we call the Random Edge Flipping model, an instance is generated as follows. We start with an arbitrary acyclic directed graph and then randomly flip its edges (the adversary may later un-flip some of them). In the second model, which we call the Random Backward Edge model, again we start with an arbitrary acyclic graph but now add new random backward edges (the adversary may delete some of them). For the first model, we give an approximation algorithm that finds a solution of cost (1+ δ) OPT + n polylog n, where OPT is the cost of the optimal solution. For the second model, we give an approximation algorithm that finds a solution of cost O(planted) + n polylog n, where planted is the cost of the planted solution. Additionally, we present an approximation algorithm for semi-random instances of Minimum Directed Balanced Cut.
A family of games on 1,∞)2 with payoff a function of y/x

A two-parameter class of games on 1,∞)2 is studied. The games may be regarded as analogs of Silverman games, having continuous payoff function in place of a step function of y/x. This change is motivated by a desire to move toward a model for competitive situations where the penalty for overspending increases with the amount of overspending. There are some similarities to games with bell-shaped kernel. For most of the region considered in the plane of the two parameters there are solutions of finite type, which are obtained explicitly. There are, however, pockets in this plane where no optimal strategies have been found and possibly where none of finite type exist.
Transcriptional organization of the Drosophila melanogaster ribosomal RNA genes.

The transcriptional polarity of the 19 S and 26 S ribosomal RNAs of Drosophila melanogaster was investigated using the ultraviolet light mapping technique. The 19 S rRNA was shown to be closer to the promoter than the 26 S rRNA.
GTP-BINDING PROTEINS IN PLANTS : NEW MEMBERS OF AN OLD FAMILY

Regulatory guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) have been studied extensively in animal and microbial organisms, and they are divided into the heterotrimeric and the small (monomeric) classes. Heterotrimeric G proteins are known to mediate signal responses in a variety of pathways in animals and simple eukaryotes, whiole small G proteins perform diverse functions including signal transduction, secretion, and regulation of cytoskeleton. In recent years, biochemical analyses have produced a large amount of information on the presence and possible functions of G proteins in plants. Further, molecular cloning has clearly demonstrated that plants have both heterotrimeric and small G proteins. Although the functions of the plant heterotrimeric G proteins are yet to be determined, expression analysis of an Arabidopsis Gα protein suggests that it may be involved in the regulation of cell division and differentiation. In contrast to the very few genes cloned thus far that encode heterotrimeric G proteins in plants, a large number of small G proteins have been identified by molecular cloning from various plants. In addition, several plant small G proteins have been shown to be functional homologues of their counterparts in animals and yeasts. Future studies using a number of approaches are likely to yield insights into the role plant G proteins play.
Development of indium-rich InGaN epilayers for integrated tandem solar cells

InGaN epilayers have been investigated for use in photovoltaic solar cells for the past years. At present, almost all photovoltaic device structures reported have exhibited very low short circuit currents and thus very low solar conversion efficiency. This phenomenon has been attributed to point and extended defect chemistry in InGaN epilayers (e.g. vacancies, misfit dislocations, and V-defects), as well as to spinodal decomposition of the strained InGaN wurtzite lattice system. These defects become more dominant for higher indium concentration InGaN epilayers needed for multijunction photovoltaic device structures. In this work, we will report on the growth and characterization of indium-rich InGaN epilayers that have been grown by novel MOCVD growth technology, including the growth at superatmospheric reactor pressures.
Electron Transfer from a Cyclic Diaryliodine Species to Arenediazonium Salts. Evidence for the Intermediacy of 9−I−2 Structures in Iodine Atom Transfer Reactions1

2,2‘-Diiodobiphenyl (1) reacts with arenediazonium hexafluorophosphates (ArN2+PF6-) in acetonitrile to form biphenyleneiodonium salt (4) and iodoarenes (ArI) as major products. The reaction follows a free-radical-chain mechanism and involves a cyclic diaryliodine, 9−I−2 species (3), which is trapped as the iodonium salt (4) by a single-electron transfer (SET) to the diazonium salt. The results show that diaryliodine intermediates formed by the addition of phenyl radicals to iodoarenes can have sufficient lifetimes to allow trapping by bimolecular processes.
Protracted alcohol withdrawal delirium

Abstract Protracted alcohol withdrawal delirium is infrequent, but when it occurs significant morbidity can be anticipated. In this report, a case of protracted alcohol withdrawal delirium is presented. The patient's course was complicated by intracebral and subdural hemorrhages, sedative-hypnotic drug synergism resulting in respiratory compromise, the failure of benzodiazepines to prevent delirium or shorten its duration, and the onset of Wernicke's encephalopathy.
Allergen-specific basophil suppression associated with clinical tolerance in patients with milk allergy

Background Children with milk allergy who tolerate heat-denatured milk (HM) have less severe reactions and outgrow the condition earlier than those who react to HM, which might be related to differences in IgE-dependent effector cell function. Objective We sought to apply a novel assay to test the hypothesis that HM-tolerant children have suppressed IgE-mediated basophil responses. Methods Allergic, HM-tolerant, outgrown, or control subjects were defined based on oral food challenges. Whole blood cells were stimulated in vitro with a range of milk allergen doses in the presence or absence of autologous serum or with dilutions of autologous serum. Activated basophils were identified by means of flow cytometry as CD63 bright CD123 + CD203c + HLA-DR − CD41a − . Results HM-tolerant subjects' basophils were significantly less responsive to milk allergen stimulation at all doses than were basophils from HM-reactive (allergic) individuals. In the absence of autologous serum, HM-tolerant subjects' basophils were significantly more reactive at low allergen concentrations. To a lesser extent, autologous serum also inhibited IL-3– and anti-IgE–induced, but not N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine–induced, responses. The allergen-specific responsiveness of HM-tolerant subjects' basophils increased with dilution of autologous serum with normal pooled serum. Conclusion Children with milk allergy with a favorable prognosis have evidence of extrinsically suppressed allergen-specific effector cell reactivity.
Theory of mind in individuals with Alzheimer-type dementia

Abstract Background: Theory of Mind (ToM) ability allows attribution of mental states to oneself and others. Recent studies suggest that impairment of ToM may be a partial cause of social-communication impairment in adults with right hemisphere disorder, frontal lobe damage, and the frontal variant of frontotemporal dementia. Initial evidence has also been presented for a ToM impairment in individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD), but extant investigations have inadequately controlled for other cognitive impairments. Aims: The purpose of this study was to determine whether individuals with AD exhibit a ToM impairment that is distinguishable from cognitive and executive function deficits, and to investigate whether memory support affects their ToM performance. Methods & Procedures: Ten participants with mild to moderate AD completed first‐order and second-order false belief tasks with and without memory support, and their performances on ToM testing were compared to those of elderly controls. All ToM test...
Post-injury treatment with GM1 ganglioside reduces nociceptive behaviors and spinal cord metabolic activity in rats with experimental peripheral mononeuropathy

Abstract In a rat model of painful peripheral mononeuropathy, this study examined the effects of post-injury treatment with a monosialoganglioside, GM1, on abnormal nociceptive behaviors and spinal cord neural activity resulting from loose ligation of the rat common sciatic nerve (chronic constructive injury, CCI). Thermal hyperalgesia and spontaneous pain behaviors of CCI rats were assessed by measuring foot-withdrawal latencies to radiant heat and by rating spontaneous hind paw guarding positions, respectively. Neural activity within different regions of the spinal cord was inferred in both CCI and sham-operated rats by employing the [14C]-2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) autoradiographic technique to measure spinal cord glucose metabolism. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) GM1 treatment (10 mg/kg) initiated 1 h or 24 h after injury and once daily for the first 9 post-injury days reduced thermal hyperalgesia of the hind paw ipsilateral to nerve ligation and lowered spontaneous pain behavior rating scores in CCI rats. Sciatic nerve ligation reliably increased basal 2-DG metabolic activity of CCI rats in all four sampled regions (laminae I–IV, V–VI, VII, VIII–IX) of spinal cord lumbar segments (L2–L5) both ipsilateral and contralateral to nerve ligation 10 days after injury. Consistent with the drug's effects on spontaneous pain behaviors, 10 daily GM1 treatments (10 mg/kg, i.p.) initiated 1 h after nerve ligation reduced spinal cord 2-DG metabolic activity in laminae V–VI and VII ipsilateral to nerve ligation and in all four sampled regions contralateral to nerve ligation. This attenuation of the increased spinal cord glucose utilization that occurs in the absence of overt peripheral stimulation may reflect an influence of GM1 on increased neural activity contributing to spontaneous pain. Since gangliosides are thought to protect neurons from excitotoxic effects of excitatory amino acids, these results suggest that ganglioside treatment may result in attenuation of excitatory neurotoxicity that may occur following peripheral nerve injury. Thus, ganglioside treatment could provide a new approach to the clinical management of neuropathic pain syndromes following peripheral nerve injury.
Phase jumps of p in a laser with a periodically modulated injected signal

Abstract The dynamics of the phase variable in a laser with injected signal are analyzed as the injected amplitude is modulated by a small periodic term. This term induces quasiperiodic oscillations in the real and imaginary parts of the field variable which make the phase dynamics much more complex than the constant injected signal case in which the real and imaginary parts of the field are periodic. Two-timing analysis, in which the frequency of the periodic component of the injected signal is represented as a small deviation from the fast-time frequency, yields slow-time evolution equations of a periodically forced Toda oscillator. The dynamics near resonance are discussed. A map determining whether the phase jumps up or down by π units is developed based on the slow-time evolution equations.
Sinus Lift Procedures: An Overview of Current Techniques

For more than 30 years the maxillary sinus augmentation graft has been a mainstay of implant-directed maxillary reconstruction. The purpose of this article is to review the fundamentals of maxillary sinus reconstruction including anatomy and physiology of the sinus, indications for surgery, preoperative evaluation, surgical techniques, and management of complications. While there are some relative contraindications for the procedure, there are almost no absolute contraindications. With preparation, education, and experience, the maxillary sinus augmentation/elevation graft is a procedure that greatly benefits the patient, with a predictable outcome.
Q: Can an ARB be given to patients who have had angioedema on an ACE inhibitor?

Proceed with caution. ARBs can also cause angioedema, but the benefit may outweigh the risk if the patient truly needs the drug.
Parallelization of elastic bunch graph matching (EBGM) algorithm for fast face recognition

This paper presents a parallel method for EBGM face recognition. Compared with other methods such as principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA), EBGM has the advantage of higher accuracy, however, with more computational time and memory usage, which also mean less practicability. We propose a parallel method for EBGM by balancing the unit of images. We distribute the training process and allot the probing images to all processors equally, and then the recognition process is carried out in all processors simultaneously by communicating with each other. The experimental result on Message Passing Interface (MPI) platform shows that the speedup and efficiency maintain excellent with different problem size and the number of processors. Moreover, memory usage also decreases on each processor.
Surfactant association structures in the system water, sorbitol, sodium dodecyl sulfate, and hexanol

The phase regions in the system hexanol, sodium dodecyl sulfate, and concentrated aqueous solutions of sorbitol were similar to the corresponding system with glycerol.
The influence of teacher models on the career confidence and motivation of college students

Changes in undergraduates' career-related confidence and motivation were tested in a sample of 107 females and 72 males during their first college year. Subjects identified their primary teacher model and indicated the extent to which they wanted to emulate their model. Among students with same-sex models, the wish to emulate one's teacher (teacher attraction) was positively associated with growth in confidence and motivation. Among students with opposite-sex teacher models, teacher attraction was not related to student growth. Results are considered in light of the personal relevance of same-sex models for students' career development.
Phytoplankton succession explains size-partitioning of new production following upwelling-induced blooms

Abstract Large and chain-forming diatoms typically dominate the phytoplankton biomass after initiation of coastal upwelling. The ability of these diatoms to accelerate and maintain elevated nitrate uptake rates has been proposed to explain the dominance of diatoms over all other phytoplankton groups. Moreover, the observed delay in biomass accumulation following nitrate supply after initiation of upwelling events has been hypothesised to result from changes in the diatom community structure or from physiological acclimation. To investigate these mechanisms, we used both numerical modelling and experimental incubations that reproduced the characteristic succession from small to large species in phytoplankton community composition and size structure. Using the Tracers Of Phytoplankton with Allometric Zooplankton (TOPAZ) ecosystem model as a framework, we find that variations in functional group-specific traits must be taken into account, through adjustments of group-dependent maximum production rates (P Cmax , s − 1 ), in order to accurately reproduce the observed patterns and timescales of size-partitioned new production in a non-steady state environment. Representation of neither nutrient acclimation, nor diatom diversity in the model was necessary as long as lower than theoretical maximum production rates were implemented. We conclude that this physiological feature, P Cmax , is critical in representing the early, relatively higher specific nitrate uptake rate of large diatoms, and explains the differential success of small and large phytoplankton communities in response to nitrate supply during upwelling.
Nitric Oxide Regulation of Cyclic di-GMP Synthesis and Hydrolysis in Shewanella woodyi

Although several reports have documented nitric oxide (NO) regulation of biofilm formation, the molecular basis of this phenomenon is unknown. In many bacteria, an H-NOX (heme-nitric oxide/oxygen-binding) gene is found near a diguanylate cyclase (DGC) gene. H-NOX domains are conserved hemoproteins that are known NO sensors. It is widely recognized that cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) is a ubiquitous bacterial signaling molecule that regulates the transition between motility and biofilm. Therefore, NO may influence biofilm formation through H-NOX regulation of DGC, thus providing a molecular-level explanation for NO regulation of biofilm formation. This work demonstrates that, indeed, NO-bound H-NOX negatively affects biofilm formation by directly regulating c-di-GMP turnover in Shewanella woodyi strain MS32. Exposure of wild-type S. woodyi to a nanomolar level of NO resulted in the formation of thinner biofilms, and less intracellular c-di-GMP, than in the absence of NO. Also, a mutant strain in the gene encoding SwH-NOX showed a decreased level of biofilm formation (and a decreased amount of intracellular c-di-GMP) with no change observed upon NO addition. Furthermore, using purified proteins, it was demonstrated that SwH-NOX and SwDGC are binding partners. SwDGC is a dual-functioning DGC; it has diguanylate cyclase and phosphodiesterase activities. These data indicate that NO-bound SwH-NOX enhances c-di-GMP degradation, but not synthesis, by SwDGC. These results support the biofilm growth data and indicate that S. woodyi senses nanomolar NO with an H-NOX domain and that SwH-NOX regulates SwDGC activity, resulting in a reduction in c-di-GMP concentration and a decreased level of biofilm growth in the presence of NO. These data provide a detailed molecular mechanism for NO regulation of c-di-GMP signaling and biofilm formation.
Effect of linezolid in ventilator-associated pneumonia caused by MRSA

Evaluation of: Wunderink RG, Mendelson MH, Somero MS et al. Early microbiological response to linezolid vs vancomycin in ventilator-associated pneumonia due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Chest 134, 1200–1207 (2008).Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important cause of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), especially in patients who develop VAP late in their hospital course. Clinical failure in MRSA VAP is unacceptably high. Linezolid is an oxazolidinone antimicrobial agent that demonstrates bacteriostatic activity against MRSA and has been demonstrated to be equivalent to vancomycin in the treatment of nosocomial pneumonia. Retrospective analysis of two randomized, double-blind, studies suggests that linezolid therapy may confer clinical benefit over vancomycin in patients with MRSA VAP. Linezolid demonstrates excellent penetration into the epithelial-lining fluid and this feature has been postulated to be integral to its therapeutic benefit in MRSA VAP. This artic...
The polar head group of a novel insulin-sensitive glycophospholipid mimics insulin action on phospholipid methyltransferase.

A phospholipid has been purified from rat liver membranes which copurified with an insulin-sensitive glyco-phospholipid isolated from H35 hepatoma cells. The polar head group of this phospholipid was generated by treatment with a phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C from Staphylococcus aureus and purified through a C18 extraction column. Like insulin, the addition of this polar head group to isolated rat adipocytes inhibited the stimulatory effect of isoproterenol on phospholipid methyltransferase. The polar head group was also active on a subcellular fraction. The addition of the polar head group to microsomes isolated from isoproterenol-treated adipocytes produced a time-dependent inactivation of phospholipid methyl-transferase, approaching basal activity. It is proposed that the effects of insulin on phospholipid methyl-transferase may be mediated by this polar head group.
Economic analysis of integrated on-farm drainage management

The goal of integrated on-farm drainage management (IFDM) is to eliminate the discharge of subsurface drainage water from farms into waterways or evaporation ponds. Components of a typical IFDM system include improved irrigation practices, irrigation of salt-tolerant plants with drainage water, and on-farm disposal of drainage water using a solar evaporator. Costs of an IFDM system include initial investments, operation and maintenance, and the opportunity costs of land used for the solar evaporator and for irrigation of nonmarketable, salt-tolerant plants. The farm-level cost of an IFDM system increases with the proportion of farmland used to irrigate salt-tolerant plants. A conceptual framework for evaluating the farm-level costs of IFDM is presented, along with empirical analysis from California’s San Joaquin Valley.
Artificial Photosynthesis Would Unify the Electricity-Carbohydrate-Hydrogen Cycle for Sustainability

Sustainable development requires balanced integration of four basic human needs – air (O2/CO2), water, food, and energy. To solve key challenges, such as CO2 fixation, electricity storage, food production, transportation fuel production, water conservation or maintaining an ecosystem for space travel, we wish to suggest the electricity-carbohydrate-hydrogen (ECHo) cycle, where electricity is a universal energy carrier, hydrogen is a clean electricity carrier, and carbohydrate is a high-energy density hydrogen (14.8 H2 mass% or 11-14 MJ electricity output/kg)carrier plus a food and feed source. Each element of this cycle can be converted to the other reversibly & efficiently depending on resource availability, needs, and costs. In order to implement such cycle, here we propose to fix carbon dioxide by electricity or hydrogen to carbohydrate (starch) plus ethanol by cell-free synthetic biology approaches. According to knowledge in the literature, the proposed artificial photosynthesis must be operative. Therefore, collaborations are urgently needed to solve several technological bottlenecks before large-scale implementation.
The Politics and Coverage of Terrorism: From Media Images to Public Consciousness

This article presents a typology that explains the variation in media coverage for different kinds of terrorism. The relation of a terrorist act to power is the focus of the typology. Grievance terrorism is fomented by groups seeking power or redress of grievance. It receives substantial media coverage. Perpetrators of such terrorism are portrayed negatively. Institutional terrorism is employed by powerful entities to maintain or preserve the status quo. Amount and tone of coverage of such terrorism are contingent on the intended targets of such terrorism and on whether the media rely on those institutions as sources. The article addresses the political implications (i.e., public consciousness about terrorism and compliance with government policies) of such differences in coverage.
Editorial: The IBD Drug Pipeline—Ready to Deliver?

The study of modified-release phosphatidylcholine in this issue of the American Journal of Gastroenterology by Karner et al. is a substantial step forward for a mucosal barrier agent in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It is the first agent in a novel class to demonstrate clinical efficacy in a phase 2 study. There are a number of new agents with new mechanisms of action that are rapidly advancing through the IBD drug development pipeline. This article reviews the promising candidates and mechanisms of action in late-phase trials in IBD.
Real-time due-date promising by build-to-order environments

A vast amount of literature exists on scheduling to meet due dates, but very little work considers how to set these due dates before scheduling the orders. A method is described for real-time promising of order due dates that is applicable to discrete build-to-order environments facing dynamic order arrivals. When computing a due date, the method considers: (1) dynamic time-phased availability of resources required for each operation of the order, (2) individual order-specific characteristics and (3) existing commitments to orders that arrived previously. Performance of the method surpasses that of due-date assignment methods previously examined in the literature and also those commonly used in practice. The median and standard deviation of absolute flow-time estimation error and of absolute lateness are chosen as the primary performance criteria because they capture both positive and negative error in flow-time estimation of each individual order. Computational results from large-scale simulation studies...
Differential Cross Sections for p + p → d + π + from 1 to 3 BeV

The differential and total cross sections for the reaction $p+p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}d+{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$ have been measured in a counter experiment for incident proton kinetic energies of 1.0, 1.3, 1.5, 1.7, 2.0, 2.5, and 2.8 BeV. Values of the differential cross section are given for barycentric deuteron angles $\ensuremath{\theta}$ for $0\ensuremath{\ge}cos\ensuremath{\theta}\ensuremath{\ge}\ensuremath{-}0.97$ in small intervals of $cos\ensuremath{\theta}$. From 1.3 to 2.0 BeV, as $cos\ensuremath{\theta}$ varies from -0.5 to -1.0, the differential cross section rises, passes through a pronounced maximum, and then decreases rapidly. This maximum propagates from $cos\ensuremath{\theta}=\ensuremath{-}0.8$ at 1.3 BeV to $cos\ensuremath{\theta}=\ensuremath{-}0.94$ at 2.0 BeV, and evolves into a sharp peak at $cos\ensuremath{\theta}=\ensuremath{-}1.0$ for energies above 2.0 BeV. The total cross section decreases rapidly and monotonically with energy from 450 \ensuremath{\mu}b at 1.0 BeV to 30 \ensuremath{\mu}b at 2.8 BeV.
Ion-Enrichment and Ion-Depletion Effect of Nanochannel Structures

Unique properties exist in nanofluidic channels. In this paper, we report a new phenomenon, ion enrichment/depletion, associated with nanochannel structures. As a voltage is applied across a nanochannel, ions are rapidly enriched at one end and depleted at the other end of the nanochannel. The degree of this enrichment and depletion is directly related to the extent of double-layer overlap. A simple model is presented to qualitatively interpret this phenomenon.
Dream Analysis as an Aid to Older Adults' Life Review

This article offers guidelines for introducing dream analysis into groups of older adults engaged in life review. First, it assesses the readiness of members to benefit from dream analysis by presenting four criteria that should already characterize their life review. Second, it examines the background about interpreting dreams which social workers will need. Finally, it elaborates upon a model of dream analysis which engages many older adults by drawing upon their age related facility to access metaphorical thinking.
Multi-level slug tests in highly permeable formations : 1. Modification of the Springer-Gelhar (SG) model

A multi-level slug test model and a method for the evaluation of vertical profiles of hydraulic conductivity in highly permeable formations are developed. A double-packer system is employed to estimate local hydraulic conductivity. Depending on the formation and double-packer system parameters, the water level recovery in the tested well can exhibit a monotonic or oscillatory response. To discern information on aquifer properties from artifacts introduced by the measurement system, the theory of flow in an aquifer and a double-packer system is developed. The mathematical model incorporates features of the Springer and Gelhar (1991) model and reduces to the Bouwer and Rice (1976) model in a special case. The model involves equations of momentum and mass conservation for the double-packer system with quasi-steady well-aquifer interaction equations. The method is uniformly applicable for both monotonic and oscillatory well responses and can produce profiles of hydraulic conductivity for the tested well. The criterion is given to determine the type of well response for given slug test conditions.
Wellbore Storage Effects in Geothermal Wells

The early time response in the well testing of an homogeneous reservoir is expected to give a unit slope when log (pressure) is plotted versus log (time). It is shown that this response is a special case, and that in general another non-dimensional parameter must be defined to describe the set of curves that could take place for each value of C/sub D/. This parameter, t/sub Rw/, is the time response of the reservoir divided by the time response of the well. When t/sub Rw/ is large, a unit slope results (as in oil and gas fields where kh/..mu.. is relatively low) while no unit slope should be measured for small values of t/sub Rw/ (as in geothermal fields where kh/..mu.. is much larger than in an oil field). Using a numerical model of transient two-phase flow, the predicted early time behavior in well testing has been plotted for C/sub D/ = 25, 100, and for values of t/sub Rw/ = 10, 1, 0.1 in each case. It is shown that both C/sub D/ and t/sub Rw/ are needed to correlate the behavior. In addition, the effect of heat transfer on the downhole pressure change with time has been calculatedmore » using the assumption of thermodynamic equilibrium. If the well test data is analyzed without taking into account the heat loss, the calculations for kh/..mu.. are wrong. It is also postulated that non-equilibrium effects in the well many lead to abrupt changes in the pressure versus time curve. Such changes have been observed in field tests of flashed geothermal systems.« less
Avoiding severe environmental consequences: evidence on the role of loss avoidance and risk attitudes

Abstract Previous studies have found that individuals select away from equilibria perceived as leading to losses. The current paper examines whether individuals would increase the rate at which they internalize the costs of a negative externality in order to avoid incurring losses. The findings indicate that incurring losses did not result in the subject's overcoming the social dilemma. The participants' responses varied according to their risk attitudes, with risk-seeking subjects increasing their internalization rates but risk-averse subjects decreased their rates. It is argued that these findings cast doubt upon the notion that individuals will be willing to unilaterally engage in actions necessary to avoid severe environmental problems.
A Solid-Surface Fluorescence Method for Cholinesterase

Abstract This report describes the first successful measurement of the rate of an enzyme reaction on a solid surface using a fluorescence detection method. Analysis of as little as 25 μg/ml of horse serum cholinesterase can be performed using an initial reaction-rate method with an accuracy of better than 5.0%. N-Methyl indoxyl acetate was employed as the substrate.
Technology and health care-driving costs up, not down

Health care costs in the United States are approaching a trillion dollars per year, about 14% of the Gross National Product. Despite this enormous cost, about 20% of the population are without health insurance. An even greater number are only partially insured. Under these circumstances, what are the roles of technical innovations such as telemedicine and electronic medical records? Will these innovations, if implemented, reduce health care costs, or just make the problem worse? The paper considers how these innovations are more likely to increase than to decrease costs.
What does diffusion tensor imaging reveal about the brain and cognition in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders

Over the past 5 years, Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) has begun to provide new evidence about the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on white matter development. DTI, which examines microstructural tissue integrity, is sensitive to more subtle white matter abnormalities than traditional volumetric MRI methods. Thus far, the available DTI data suggest that white matter microstructural abnormalities fall on a continuum of severity in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Abnormalities are prominent in the corpus callosum, but also evident in major anterior-posterior fiber bundles, corticospinal tracts, and cerebellum. These subtle abnormalities are correlated with neurocognitive deficits, especially in processing speed, non-verbal ability, and executive functioning. Future studies using larger samples, increasingly sophisticated DTI methods, and additional functional MRI connectivity measures will better characterize the full range of abnormalities in FASD. Ultimately, these measures may serve as indices of change in future longitudinal studies and in studies of interventions for FASD.
Enzyme assays: Detection by failure

Testing for enzymes is important for diagnosing various medical conditions but can be problematic because of the complexity of physiological media such as blood. Now, a method of detecting phospholipases has been developed that neatly couples their concentration with the aggregation of gold nanoparticles.
Occupational asthma in a seafood restaurant worker: cross-reactivity of shrimp and scallops

Background The case of a restaurant seafood handler with IgE-mediated occupational asthma and contact urticaria to both shrimp and scallops is presented. Independent hypersensitivity to both seafoods was demonstrated by skin testing, inhalation challenge, and immunoassays. Bronchial challenge with extracts of shrimp and scallops each produced an isolated early asthmatic response. Objective To investigate cross-reactivity of shrimp (phylum Arthropoda) and scallops (phylum Mollusca). Methods Shrimp and scallops extracts were prepared from raw seafood and seafood boiling water. Distillate was collected over boiling shrimp. Specific-IgE ELISA and immunoblot assays were accomplished for shrimp and scallops extracts inhibited by each other. Results SDS-PAGE of shrimp boiling water and distillate showed similar protein patterns. SDS-PAGE and immunoblot demonstrated prominent protein allergens for shrimp boiling water at 21, 26, and 35 to 38 kD; for raw shrimp at 26 and 38 kD; for scallops boiling water at 20, 35 to 39 and 42 kD; and for raw scallops at 36 to 38 and 41 kD. Significant inhibition of the 35 to 39-kD band of each shrimp and scallops extract was demonstrated on immunoblot inhibition by seafood of the opposite phylum. IgE ELISA inhibition demonstrated 17% to 28% inhibition of shrimp by scallops and scallops by shrimp. Conclusions Seafood allergens aerosolized during food preparation are a source of potential respiratory and contact allergens. Shrimp and scallops demonstrate significant cross-reactivity. These findings confirm that the primary cross-reactive allergen of shrimp (phylum Arthropoda) and scallops (phylum Mollusca) is the 35 to 39 kD heat-stable allergen, previously demonstrated to be muscle topomyosin in both phyla.
Testing for or against a trend in odds ratios

Consider data arranged into k × 2 × 2 contingency tables. The principal result of this paper is the derivation of the likelihood ratio test and its asymptotic distribution for testing for or against an order restriction placed upon the odds ratios. We will show that the limiting distributions are of chi-bar square type and give the expression of the weighting values.
Extending the expressive power of language : tables, graphs, and diagrams

Tables, graphs, and diagrams extend the expressive powers of language by exploiting the Euclidean possibilities that a system of writing suggests to the visually creative. Because the elements of g...
Sensitive absolute-gravity gradiometry using atom interferometry

We report the demonstration of a sensitive absolute-gravity gradiometer based on light-pulse atom-interference techniques. The gradiometer consists of two absolute accelerometers operated in a differential mode. We report a differential acceleration sensitivity of $4\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}9}g/{\mathrm{Hz}}^{1/2}$ and an inferred differential acceleration accuracy of less than ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}9}g.$ This corresponds to a gravity-gradient sensitivity of $4E/{\mathrm{Hz}}^{1/2}$ ${(1E=10}^{\ensuremath{-}9}{\mathrm{s}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}2})$ and an accuracy of better than $1E$ for a 10-m separation between accelerometers. We demonstrate that the instrument can be used to detect nearby masses in a vibrationally noisy environment and characterize instrument sensitivity to spurious acceleration and rotation noise.
Vitamin A requirement for growing turkeys.

Synopsis The vitamin A requirement of Broad Breasted White turkey poults from o to 12 weeks of age is at least 2670 i.u. vitamin A/kg and possibly ranges between 2670 and 4721 i.u. vitamin A/kg. The vitamin A stored in the liver of the turkeys fed 4721 i.u. vitamin A/kg was significantly greater than those fed 1034 to 2670 i.u. vitamin A/kg at 4, 8 and 12 weeks of age. The average weights of the birds at 4, 8 and 12 weeks of age were significantly greater when the diet was supplemented with 4721 i.u. vitamin A/kg.
On the interpretive role of theories of gravity and ‘ugly’ solutions to the total evidence for dark matter

Abstract Peter Kosso (2013) discusses the weak gravitational lensing observations of the Bullet Cluster and argues that dark matter can be detected in this system solely through the equivalence principle without the need to specify a full theory of gravity. This paper argues that Kosso gets some of the details wrong in his analysis of the implications of the Bullet Cluster observations for the Dark Matter Double Bind and the possibility of constructing robust tests of theories of gravity at galactic and greater scales. Even the Bullet Cluster evidence is not sufficiently detailed to allow precision tests of General Relativity that would distinguish it from its rivals at galactic and greater scales. Taking into account the total evidence available, we cannot rule out “ugly” solutions to the dynamical discrepancy in astrophysics that involve both a large quantity of dark matter and a theory of gravity whose predictions differ significantly from those of General Relativity for interactions taking place at galactic and greater scales.
Chromosome translocations: Dangerous liaisons

Many chromosome abnormalities, especially translocations or inversions, are closely associated with a particular morphologic or phenotypic subtype of leukemia, lymphoma, or sarcoma. Cloning the genes at the breakpoints of these rearrangements has provided critical tools for more-precise diagnosis; in some cases the particular diagnosis has prognostic implications. In addition, many of the genes had not been previously identified; their discovery has had a major impact on our understanding of the molecular biology of cancer. One such gene is MLL (myeloid-lymphoid or mixed-lineage leukemia), which is located at chromosome band 11q23. This gene is involved in the 4;11 and 11;19 (p13.3) translocations in acute lymphoblastic leukemia and in the 6;11, 9;11, and 11;19 (p13.1) translocations in acute myeloblastic leukemia. It is also involved in most translocations in infants (under 1 year of age) with acute leukemia and in patients with acute leukemia who were previously treated with drugs that inhibit toposiomerase II. The target gene of MLL is unknown at present, but because of its homology to the trithorax gene in Drosophila, and based on experimental data from mice, it appears to be involved in maintaining the function of some of the homeobox genes. The development of cytogenetic and molecular probes for MLL rearrangements has confirmed that translocations involving MLL are associated with a very poor prognosis. Thus physicians can identify patients with MLL involvement and can institute treatment for these high-risk patients. An increasing understanding of MLL should lead to more-effective targeted therapy.
New research institute at CSU

The Colorado State University (CSU), in cooperation with NOAA, will create a research institute designed to explore atmospheric problems and their effects. The institute will be called the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA) and housed on the Fort Collins campus. CIRA initially will focus on studies of global climate, local weather forecasting, and weather modification by making use of temperature and moisture data gathered by NOAA's latest weather satellite, the GOES 4. ‘CIRA will complement the research activities of NOAA and the university's Department of Atmospheric Science. The institute will concern itself with atmospheric “research themes” or programs upon which special expertise now available at either parent organization can be focused,’ according to NOAA Administrator, Richard A. Frank.
The small molecule Retro-1 enhances the pharmacological actions of antisense and splice switching oligonucleotides

The attainment of strong pharmacological effects with oligonucleotides is hampered by inefficient access of these molecules to their sites of action in the cytosol or nucleus. Attempts to address this problem with lipid or polymeric delivery systems have been only partially successful. Here, we describe a novel alternative approach involving the use of a non-toxic small molecule to enhance the pharmacological effects of oligonucleotides. The compound Retro-1 was discovered in a screen for small molecules that reduce the actions of bacterial toxins and has been shown to block the retrograde trafficking pathway. We demonstrate that Retro-1 can also substantially enhance the effectiveness of antisense and splice switching oligonucleotides in cell culture. This effect occurs at the level of intracellular trafficking or processing and is correlated with increased oligonucleotide accumulation in the nucleus but does not involve the perturbation of lysosomal compartments. We also show that Retro-1 can alter the effectiveness of splice switching oligonucleotides in the in vivo setting. These observations indicate that it is possible to enhance the pharmacological actions of oligonucleotides using non-toxic and non-lysosomotropic small molecule adjuncts.
Disparities in adolescent-physician views of teen health information concerns

To enhance communications between physicians and adolescents, 600 middle school students and 99 physicians completed written questionnaires assessing the importance of 45 items from seven subscales: smoking; physical fitness; weight control; self-actualization; comparison with others; peer opinion; and communications. Adolescents rated the importance of knowing about items from each scale. Physicians rated how much importance they attached to each scale and their perception of the adolescents' ratings. Physicians placed more importance on each scale than did the adolescents, and they did not accurately judge the importance adolescents placed on the items. Physicians and adolescents differed significantly in the ratings of all but one scale, weight. With the exception of one scale (peer opinion), physicians estimated that adolescents would place less importance on the items in each scale than the adolescents actually reported. Our results suggest the need to concurrently consider adolescent-physician views when seeking to meet adolescents' health needs.