cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estimating glutamate and Glx from GABA-optimized MEGA-PRESS: Off-resonance but not difference spectra values correspond to PRESS values

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy measurements of glutamate and GABA are important in neuropsychiatric research. Some study designs require simultaneous measurement of both metabolites. GABA measurement requires specialized pulse sequences, the most common approach being J-difference spectral editing with MEGA-PRESS. This method enables two different strategies for concurrently measuring glutamate - from either off-resonance or difference spectra. However, it is uncertain how either strategy compares to conventional glutamate measurements. Here we compared these approaches in 49 subjects (28 healthy volunteers and 21 first-episode psychosis patients), in whom both PRESS (TE 80) and MEGA-PRESS (TE 68) spectra were obtained from dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Glutamate and glx estimates from MEGA-PRESS difference and off-resonance spectra were compared to glutamate and glx estimates from PRESS spectra using correlational analyses. In healthy volunteers, correlations between PRESS and MEGA-PRESS off-resonance values were r ≥ 0.88 and were significantly higher than correlations between PRESS and MEGA-PRESS difference spectrum values (r ≤ 0.36). Patients showed a similar pattern. Lower correlations with difference spectrum values may reflect a disproportionate impact of field instabilities on co-edited glutamate signals. The results suggest that MEGA-PRESS off-resonance spectra can substitute for separately-acquired PRESS spectra in studies requiring simultaneous glutamate and GABA measurements.
Rock physics modelling and inversion for saturation-pressure changes in time-lapse seismic studies

ABSTRACT Time‐lapse seismic data are generally used to monitor the changes in dynamic reservoir properties such as fluid saturation and pore or effective pressure. Changes in saturation and pressure due to hydrocarbon production usually cause changes in the seismic velocities and as a consequence changes in seismic amplitudes and travel times. This work proposes a new rock physics model to describe the relation between saturation‐pressure changes and seismic changes and a probabilistic workflow to quantify the changes in saturation and pressure from time‐lapse seismic changes. In the first part of this work, we propose a new quadratic approximation of the rock physics model. The novelty of the proposed formulation is that the coefficients of the model parameters (i.e. the saturation‐pressure changes) are functions of the porosity, initial saturation and initial pressure. The improvements in the results of the forward model are shown through some illustrative examples. In the second part of the work, we present a Bayesian inversion approach for saturation‐pressure 4D inversion in which we adopt the new formulation of the rock physics approximation. The inversion results are validated using synthetic pseudo‐logs and a 3D reservoir model for CO2 sequestration.
Where does moral conviction fit?: A factor analytic approach examining antecedents to attitude strength

Abstract Research and theory has suggested that moral conviction is distinct from other attitude strength antecedents. Yet, many attitude features conceptually overlap with features considered definitional to moral conviction. In order to place moral conviction within the broader landscape of attitude properties, we examined the factor analytic structure of a set of attitude strength antecedents that seemed conceptually related to moral basis. Participants reported attitudes toward the topic of GMOs (Study 1) or toward a topic they identified as important to them (Studies 2–6) and various subjective properties of their attitudes. We also examined the ability of each attitude feature to predict advocacy intentions (Studies 3–6). In Studies 1–3, exploratory factor analyses revealed that the various strength antecedents reflected a two-factor structure that differentiated properties relating to an attitude's embeddedness in one's core values from properties reflecting a consistency or entrenchment in an attitude. In Studies 4–6, confirmatory factor analyses determined that, in addition to the over-arching two-factor structure, including “minor factors” reflecting each attitude property further improved model fit. We therefore propose a hybrid model, wherein the various attitude properties form an over-arching two-factor structure in which each major factor includes additional “minor” constructs. Across studies, moral basis loaded highly on an embeddedness factor along with values basis (all studies), importance (Studies 4–6), affective and cognitive meta-bases (Studies 5–6), centrality, and extremity (Study 6). The consistency factor was composed of subjective ambivalence (all studies), correctness, clarity (Studies 1–4), attitude-relevant knowledge (Studies 4–6), and certainty (Studies 5–6). Embeddedness and consistency (as latent variables) each independently predicted advocacy intentions. These findings provide insight into how moral basis relates to a broad set of attitude features and has implications for how future work might define moral conviction.
Frontier justice: international law and ‘lawless’ spaces in the “War on Terror”:

How does the discourse of international law facilitate extraterritorial state violence? This paper synthesizes insights from International Relations, comparative politics, and legal studies in orde...
Adding Epidemiologically Important Meteorological Data to Peanut Rx, the Risk Assessment Framework for Spotted Wilt of Peanut.

Management of disease affecting peanut in the southeastern United States has benefited from extensive field research identifying disease-associated risk factors since the 1990s. An assessment of ri...
The Formation of Brown Dwarfs

Numerous brown dwarfs have been found in recent years, re-igniting debate about their origin. A natural way to stunt the growth of a nascent stellar embryo is to eject it out of the infalling gas envelope. This can be achieved by dynamical interactions in newborn multiple systems or small-N clusters of stellar embryos. In this scenario brown dwarfs form like stars, but are sent into distant orbits or completely ejected, thus depriving them of sufficient growth to ever exceed the hydrogen burning limit of 0.08 M⊙. Decay of a multiple system is a stochastic process and, with better luck, brown dwarfs could indeed have become normal stars.
State-level prescription drug monitoring program mandates and adolescent injection drug use in the United States, 1995-2017: A difference-in-differences analysis

Background Prescription opioid misuse is an ongoing crisis and a risk factor for injection drug use (IDU). Few studies have evaluated strategies for preventing opioid or IDU initiation among adolescents. We evaluated changes in the proportion of adolescents reporting IDU before and after prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) mandates were implemented in 18 states compared to 29 states without such mandates. Methods and findings This difference-in-differences analysis used biannual Youth Risk Behavioral Surveillance System (YRBSS) data representative of adolescents 17 to 18 years old across 47 states from 1995 to 2017. We compared changes in adolescent IDU in 18 states with and 29 states without PDMP mandates. Among 331,025 adolescents, 51.7% identified as male, 62.1% as non-Hispanic white, 17.4% as non-Hispanic black, and 14.6% as Hispanic. Overall, 3.5% reported IDU during the 2 years prior to PDMP mandates. In the final multivariable difference-in-differences model, we included individual age, sex, and race/ethnicity, as well as state and year as covariates from the YRBSS. We also included state- and year-specific poverty rates based on US Census Bureau data. Additionally, we controlled for state implementation of (non-mandated) PDMPs before states subsequently implemented mandates and pill mill laws. We conducted several sensitivity analyses, including repeating our main analysis using a logistic, rather than linear, model, and with a lead indicator on PDMP mandate implementation, a lag indicator, and alternative policy implementation dates. PDMP mandates were associated with a 1.5 percentage point reduction (95% CI -2.3 to -0.6 percentage points; p = 0.001) in adolescent IDU, on average over the years following mandate implementation, a relative reduction of 42.9% (95% CI -65.7% to -17.1%). The association of PDMP mandates with this reduction persisted at least 4 years beyond implementation. Sensitivity analyses were consistent with the main results. Limitations include the multi-stepped causal pathway from PDMP mandate implementation to changes in IDU and the potential for omitted state-level time-varying confounders. Conclusions Our analysis indicated that PDMP mandates were associated with a reduction in adolescent IDU, providing empirical evidence that such mandates may prevent adolescents from initiating IDU. Policymakers might consider PDMP mandates as a potential strategy for preventing adolescent IDU.
Heart Rate Variability Reflects Similar Cardiac Autonomic Function in Explosive and Aerobically Trained Athletes.

Autonomic cardiac function can be indirectly detected non-invasively by measuring the variation in microtiming of heart beats by a method known as heart rate variability (HRV). Aerobic training for sport is associated with reduced risk for some factors associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD), but effects on autonomic function in different athlete types are less known. To compare cardiac autonomic modulation using a standard protocol and established CVD risk factors in highly trained intercollegiate athletes competing in aerobic, explosive, and cross-trained sports. A total of 176 college athletes were categorized in distinct sports as explosive (EA), aerobic (AA), or cross-trained (mixed) athletes. Eight different HRV measures obtained at rest were compared across training type and five health factors: systolic (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), body weight (BW), sex, and race. All athletic types shared favorable HRV measures that correlated with low CVD risk factors and indicated normal sympathovagal balance. A significant correlation was reported between DBP and pNN50 (% RR intervals > 50 ms) (β = −0.214, p = 0.011) and between BW and low-frequency (LF) power (β = 0.205, p = 0.006). Caucasian and African American athletes differed significantly (p < 0.05) with respect to four HRV variables: pNN50, HF power, LF power, and LF/HF ratios. Explosive, aerobic and mixed athletes had similar cardiovascular and autonomic HRV results in all eight HRV parameters measured. All athletes reported LF and pNN50 values that were significantly correlated with two CVD risk factors: DBP and BW. Compared with Caucasian teammates, African American athletes demonstrated lower LF/HF and higher pNN50, indicating an even more favorable resting sympathovagal activity and healthy CV function.
Generalized Langevin Equations

We now turn to problems in statistical mechanics where the assumption of thermal equilibrium does not apply. In nonequilibrium problems, one should in principle solve the full Liouville equation, at least approximately. There are many situations in which one attempts to do that under different assumptions and conditions, giving rise to the Euler and Navier–Stokes equations, the Boltzmann equation, the Vlasov equation, etc.
The detection of ruptured membranes by vaginal smear

Abstract 1. 1. Fifty women in labor were studied in reference to membrane status by means of determination of vaginal pH and vaginal cytology. 2. 2. The pH readings showed an error in 3 of the 50 patients. 3. 3. The vaginal smear technique was uniformly reliable in 49 of the 50 patients. The single error is attributed to a badly taken, too thick smear.
Control of acid and duodenogastroesophageal reflux (DGER) in patients with Barrett's esophagus.

Control of Acid and Duodenogastroesophageal Reflux (DGER) in Patients With Barrett’s Esophagus
Lives Through the Years: Styles of Life and Successful Aging

Growing old - what is it like? What are the main problems of the aging? Lack of fulfillment in their work and life? Loneliness? Anxiety about sickness and disability? Fear of death? This well-documented, theoretically systematic, and vivid account of the process of aging provides highly enlightening answers and dispels once and for all many of the myths surrounding the close to 20 million Americans who are over sixty-five. Building upon the results of extensive interviews, the authors have established the existence of six styles and have concluded that a successful transition to old age can be achieved through any of them. They have also developed a definition of success, which has practical implications, since it deals with the extent to which an individual contributes or is a burden to the lives of those around him. The combined analysis of style and success results in a better understanding of individual differences in aging. The reader comes to know and understand the subjects as if he had worked with them in person. The wealth of detail the case histories contain permits scholars and students to judge for themselves the validity of the authors' findings. Derived from this unusually rich body of material, the authors' conclusions and recommendations are invaluable to all concerned with the study, the treatment, and the counseling of the aged. "Lives Through the Years" is a pioneering volume of social inquiry and interpretation, which marks a major scientific advance in its field, opens up new horizons for fruitful research, and offers a stimulating and authoritative portrayal of one of the most important problems of our society.
Spontaneous Umbilical Fistula in Granulomatous (Crohn's) Disease of the Bowel

Three patients with regional enteritis involving the terminal ileum and 1 with granulomatous colitis developed spontaneous umbilical fistulas in the absence of prior surgery. Two patients did well with medical management and 2 required surgery because of the severity of the basic inflammatory process. The mechanism of fistula formation to the umbilicus in the absence of previous surgery is not understood, but may occur secondary to perforation of an abscess into persistent urachal remnants.
Scalable Software Model Checking Using Design for Verification

There has been significant progress in automated verification techniques based on model checking. However, scalable software model checking remains a challenging problem. We believe that this problem can be addressed using a design for verification approach based on design patterns that facilitate scalable automated verification. We have been investigating a design for verification approach based on the following principles: 1) use of stateful, behavioral interfaces which isolate the behavior and enable modular verification, 2) an assume-guarantee style verification strategy which separates verification of the behavior from the verification of the conformance to the interface specifications, 3) a general model checking technique for interface verification, and 4) domain specific and specialized verification techniques for behavior verification. So far we have applied this approach to verification of synchronization operations in concurrent programs and to verification of interactions among multiple peers in composite web services. The case studies we conducted indicate that scalable software verification is achievable in these application domains using our design for verification approach.
Role of Growth Factors in the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulceration

Wound healing is the process of tissue repair and the tissue response to injury. It is a complex biological process involving chemotaxis, cellular reproduction, matrix protein production and deposition, neovascularization, and scar remodeling (1). Growth factors are polypeptides that control the growth, differentiation, and metabolism of cells, and regulate the process of tissue repair (2,3). The role of growth factors in wound healing and specifically in diabetic ulcer healing is the subject of this chapter.
Radiative Transfer in the Atmosphere and Ocean: Approximate Solutions of Prototype Problems

Introduction We now describe several approximate methods of solution of the radiative transfer equation. Approximate methods play an important role in the subject, because they usually provide more insight than the more accurate methods. Indeed their simple mathematical forms help clarify physical aspects that are not easily discerned from the numerical output of a computer code. Another redeeming feature of approximate methods is that they are often sufficiently accurate that no further effort is necessary. Unlike some of the more sophisticated numerical techniques, these methods also yield approximations for the internal radiation field, including the source function. Of central importance is the two-stream approximation. This class of solutions has been given various names in the past (Schuster–Schwarzschild, Eddington, two-stream, diffusion approximation, two-flow analysis, etc.). In all variations of the method, the intractable integro-differential equation of radiative transfer is replaced with representations of the angular dependence of the radiation field in terms of just two functions of optical depth. These two functions obey two linear, coupled ordinary differential equations. When the medium is homogeneous, the coefficients of these equations are constants, and analytic closed-form solutions are possible. The mathematical forms of these solutions are exponentials in optical depth, depending on the total optical depth of the medium, the single-scattering albedo, one or two moments of the phase function, and the boundary intensities. Some disadvantages are that two-stream solutions maintain acceptable accuracy over a rather restricted range of the parameters; there is no useful a priori method to estimate the accuracy; and one generally needs an accurate solution to obtain a useful estimate of the accuracy.
An Oral History of First-Generation Leaders in Education of Children With Emotional/Behavioral Disorders, Part 1: The Accidental Special Educator:

As the first part of an oral history of education of students with emotional/behavioral disorders, 15 first-generation leaders were asked to relate how they entered the field and to describe their careers, which span the past 35 to 50 years. Their videotaped responses were transcribed and are reported here together with discussion of several apparent themes. Most of these persons had no plan to pursue careers in special education or knew that such a career was possible. Their careers coincided with cultural and legislative changes that established the right to public education for students with disabilities. As such, they encountered opportunities for teaching positions and graduate study that ultimately led to long-time engagement and leadership roles. They entered an emerging and rapidly developing profession and were able to help shape the field over its first several decades.
Going Out on a LIM and Cysteine-Rich Domains 1 Limb A New Way to Block Calcineurin Activity

Hypertension induces cardiac myocytes in the left ventricle to activate a hypertrophic response that involves the upregulation of contractile proteins and the re-expression of fetal genes.1 Transcriptional induction is an important component of this response, and the zinc finger-containing transcription factors GATA4 and GATA6 have been shown to directly stimulate cardiac hypertrophy.2 LIM domain proteins (named after the first 3 LIM proteins identified: Lin11, Isl-1, and Mec-3) interact with transcriptional regulators, kinases, and structural proteins. Because of these protein-protein interactions, LIM domain proteins have been assigned roles in cell growth, differentiation, and cytoskeletal remodeling.3 Several LIM proteins have been identified by proteomic and functional screens of left ventricles subjected to pressure overload.4,5 LIM and cysteine-rich domains 1 (Lmcd1) protein has 2 LIM domains in the C-terminus and a cysteine-rich domain in the N-terminus. Because it contains ≥1 LIM domain in the C-terminus, Lmcd1 is classified as a group 3 LIM protein, and most of the previously identified group 3 LIM proteins have been shown to localize to the cytoplasm. Lmcd1 is expressed in most tissues and is particularly highly expressed in cardiac and skeletal muscle.6 Beyond a …
Progress on background-limited membrane-isolated TES bolometers for far-IR/submillimeter spectroscopy

To determine the lowest attainable phonon noise equivalent power (NEP) for membrane-isolation bolometers, we fabricated and measured the thermal conductance of suspended Si3N4 beams with different geometries via a noise thermometry technique. We measured beam cross-sectional areas ranging from 0.35 x 0.5 (micro)m(sup 2) to 135 x 1.0 (micro)m(sup 2) and beam lengths ranging from (micro)m to 8300 (micro)m. The measurements directly imply that membrane-isolation bolometers are capable of reaching a phonon noise equivalent power (NEP) of 4 x 10(sup -20)W/Hz(sup 1)/O . This NEP adequate for the Background-Limited Infrared-Submillimeter Spectrograph (BLISS) proposed for the Japanese SPICA observatory, and adequate for NASA's SAFIR observatory, a 10-meter, 4 K telescope to be deployed at L2. Further, we measured the heat capacity of a suspended Si 3N 4 membrane and show how this result implies that one can make membrane-isolation bolometers with a response time which is fast enough for BLISS.
Bacitracin-resistant mutants of a mesophilic Methanobacterium species

Spontaneous mutants of Methanobacterium strain FR-2 resistant to bacitracin were isolated at a frequency of approximately 10-7 and showed minimum inhibitory concentrations 8 to 16-fold that of the wild type organism. The mutant strains reverted to sensitivity during culture in the absence of bacitracin. Repeated transfer in medium containing 8 μg bacitracin/ml resulted in the selection of a stable resistant strain with a specific growth rate, in the absence of bacitracin, comparable to that of the wild type. Resistance to bacitracin conferred cross-resistance to nisin.
Differential Effects of Chronic Ethanol Treatment onN-Methyl-d-aspartate R1 Splice Variants in Fetal Cortical Neurons

Functional N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors consisting of NR1 and NR2 subunits are an important site of action of ethanol. Chronic ethanol treatment increases the NR1 polypeptide levels in vivo and in vitro. Chronic ethanol treatment in vitro does not significantly alter the NR1 mRNA levels, even though under similar culture conditions ethanol (50 mm, 5 days) enhances the half-life of NR1 mRNA in fetal cortical neurons. To address this phenomenon, we determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting whether ethanol (50 mm, 5 days) has a splice variant-specific effect on the expression of the NR1 subunit in mouse fetal cortical neurons. This report analyzes for the first time the distribution of all NR1 splice variants in these neurons. Our data indicate the presence of NR1-3a,b and NR1-4a,b splice variants in cortical neurons. Chronic ethanol treatment significantly decreased the mRNA levels of exon 5-containing NR1 splice variants (NR1-3b and NR1-4b) (-E5/+E5 = 4.6 in untreated neurons and 6.1 in ethanol-treated neurons) and had no effect on the mRNA levels of NR1-3 (+E21/-E22) and NR1-4 (-E21/-E22) splice variants. At the polypeptide level, chronic ethanol treatment significantly reduced exon 5-containing splice variants (NR1-3b and NR1-4b). However, ethanol (50 mm, 5 days) induced a significant increase in polypeptide levels of NR1-4 (-E21/-E22), without any effect on NR1-3 (+E21/-E22) polypeptide levels. These results demonstrate that chronic ethanol treatment has a selective effect on the expression of NR1 splice variants at both the mRNA and polypeptide levels in mouse fetal cortical neurons.
On nonlinear time-dependent multivelocity transport equations

Abstract The aim of this paper is to show the existence and uniqueness of a solution for a class of nonlinear multivelocity neutron transport equations and to present a method for the determination of the solution. A recursion formula for the construction of a solution by the method of successive approximations and an error estimate for approximate solutions are given. Both global and local solutions are discussed. The conditions imposed on the nonlinear equation are directly applicable to the linear multivelocity transport problem, and a recursion formula for this system is also given. In the process of approximations, only successive integrations are involved. This fact indicates a promising possibility for the calculation of numerical results by using a computer. A brief discussion of this possibility and the applicability of the results on nonlinear problems are included.
Electrical Aspects of Adsorbing Colloid Flotation. XXII. Relaxation Times of Micellized and Adsorbed Surfactants

Abstract Proton longitudinal relaxation times (T 1 s) were measured for dodecyltri-methylammonium chloride (DTAC), dodecylammonium chloride, and sodium dodecylsulfate solutions in D2O. Effects of added paramagnetic and diamagnetic salts on the various relaxation times were determined and interpreted in terms of the structures of the micelles. Relaxation times of DTAC adsorbed on A1(OD)3-FeS floc were also determined and interpreted.
Input-aware statistical timing analysis for VLSI delay test and average design

Nanoscale VLSI systems are subject to an ever increasing performance variability, which hinders performance scaling and increases verification complexity. In this paper, we study an often neglected source of performance variability, namely logic inputs or system workload. We present input-aware statistical timing analysis, which gives not only critical path delays but also critical path activating input patterns and critical path activation probabilities. We further present its applications in delay test for improved fault coverage and better-than-worstcase design for improved average performance.
Simultaneous multielement atomic-emission spectrometry with a charge-injection device detector

Simultaneous multielement atomic-emission spectrometry with a charge-inection device (CID) as a multichannel optical detector is described. The system used in this study employs a standard commercial D.C. plasma source, a modified echelle spectrometer, and a special digital camera system that uses a two-dimensional CID array sensor. A description of the modified spectrometer is given along with performance results. Computer algorithms for acquiring and analysing spectral information are described. Detection limits for several elements are determined simultaneously. Results of simultaneous determination of several elements in an NBS standard reference material (SRM 1643A) are given. These results indicate that the CID detector is capable of reasonably good accuracy and high sensitivity in the simultaneous determination of several elements in complex samples.
Changing the Assessment of Sex-Typed Occupations

Summary While numerous studies have verified the presence of sex stereotyped occupations, few studies have tried to change those stereotypes. In attempting such change, a methodology is necessary which can measure the subtlety and complexity of attitudes and then provide strategies for change. The present study (N = 132 male and female undergraduates) tested a cognitive-mathematical model of attitude change. Multidimensional scaling was used to measure Ss' attutides toward occupations, sex roles, and motivational concepts. On the basis of those attitudes, a message-design strategy program generated optimum messages to change Ss' perceptions of the occupation of editor. The experiment was successful in significantly changing the initial perceptions of “editor” from male to female along a male-female dimension.
A simple apparatus for rapid study of paper partition chromatography

Abstract An inexpensive apparatus, economically operated, is described for rapid study of paper partition chromatography of unknown compounds. As the apparatus is small, any number can be arranged in rows for determination of suitable solvent composition, and chromatographic conditions for any particular sample. Results obtained with saccharides are presented.
Photofragment imaging of angle-velocity distributions

Photofragment angle-velocity distributions are measured in a molecular beam using a new 2D imaging technique. We report on the detection of weak perpendicular transitions for CH3I A state photodissociation at 266 and 304 nm.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Regulation of D-triokinase and NAD-linked glycerol-dehydrogenase activities in rat liver.

The specific activities expressed as [μmol × g wet wt−1× min−1 of d-triokinase and NAD-linked glycerol dehydrogenase, with d-glyceraldehyde as substrate, were determined in the 27500 ×g supernatant fraction of livers from rats subjected to various dietary and hormonal programs. The specific activity of triokinase varied over a three-fold to four-fold range, being lowest in livers of diabetic rats fed a Purina Chow and highest in livers of intact rats fed 72% fructose diets containing casein; total triokinase activity per liver was five-fold to six-fold greater in the latter group than in the former group. The specific activity of triokinase also increased in livers of rats fed diets of 72% glucose or 72% dextrin plus 18% casein. Fructose feeding caused a decrease in specific activity of glycerol dehydrogenase. Glucagon had no effect on the specific activity of either enzyme in livers of fasted rats. Cortisone tended to increase the specific activity of triokinase as well as its total activity in livers of rats fed the Purina Chow. After only 48 h of a 72% fructose-18% casein diet, liver weight was increased 50% relative to livers of rats fed the Purina Chow. Triokinase is subject to regulation in livers of adult male rats. The data indicate that the NAD-linked glycerol dehydrogenase is also subject to regulation but to a lesser extent. If glucagon does stimulate the flux of carbon in the triokinase or the NAD-linked glycerol dehydrogenase reactions, it is not as the result of increases in enzyme concentrations as determined by assayable activity measurements.
An In-Home Preventive Assessment Program for Independent Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of in-home geriatric assessments as a means of providing preventive health care and improving health and functional status of community-living elderly veterans. Design: Randomized controlled trial with 1-year follow-up. Setting: Home visits performed in a suburb of Los Angeles. Participants: Community-living veterans 70 years and older not currently receiving health care at the Sepulveda VA Medical Center (n = 131 intervention; 123 controls). Intervention: A home visit by a physician's assistant or nurse, to screen for medical, functional and psychosocial problems, followed by a letter describing findings and recommendations, and follow-up visits by trained volunteers at 4-month intervals for 1 year. Controls received only telephone interviews at 4-month intervals to collect outcome data. Measurements: Compliance with recommendations was studied for the intervention group. Outcome comparisons between the two groups included: mortality, medication usage, functional status, immunization rates, and nursing home and hospital utilization. Main Results: A mean of four new or suboptimally treated problems was identified for intervention subjects. Subjects complied with 76% of recommendations to see a physician or initiate a specific health practice. At 12-month follow-up, intervention subjects had significantly increased their immunization rates (P < 0.001) and had a significantly increased likelihood of having a primary care physician (P < 0.05). Twelve-month functional status (IADL) scores were significantly higher for intervention subjects than for controls; intervention subjects maintained their functional status, while controls experienced significant decline during the follow-up year (P < 0.05). Non-prescription drug use increased significantly among controls, but not among intervention subjects (P < 0.05). Conclusions: A brief geriatric screening assessment performed in the home can detect unrecognized and treatable problems, even among relatively healthy older adults. The use of trained volunteers is a feasible strategy for providing health education and follow-up contacts. These results support the concept that preventive gerontological approaches can help maintain important aspects of health and function.
The Importance of Emotion in Theories of Motivation: Empirical, Methodological, and Theoretical Considerations from a Goal Theory Perspective.

Abstract Despite its importance to educational psychology, prominent theories of motivation have mostly ignored emotion. In this paper, we review theoretical conceptions of the relation between motivation and emotion and discuss the role of emotion in understanding student motivation in classrooms. We demonstrate that emotion is one of the best indicators of the classroom goal structure as well as of students’ reports of avoidance behaviors. Furthermore, we suggest that emotional constructs should be included in comprehensive studies and theories of motivation. We conclude with a discussion of both methodological and theoretical implications of including emotion in classroom studies of motivation.
3.4.1 Design to Cost Methodology Implemented within A Product Team Environment

The design to cost concept establishes cost as a design parameter to be considered for a system throughout its life cycle. Cost is considered a design parameter equal in importance to technical requirements and schedule. Rockwell and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory have jointly learned that the most effective way to implement design to cost in our programs is within a product team environment. Also, we have established that the success of the program is heavily dependent on the exchange of information. It is important that the necessary steps be taken early to create an open data exchange. A methodology has been determined to increase communication between team members on performance versus cost tradeoffs using spreadsheets on personal computers.
Persistent Hiccup Associated with Thoracic Epidural Injection

Epidural steroid injections are commonly used to treat lumbosacral radicular and discogenic pain. When used in this manner, these agents can cause minor, transient systemic side effects and rarely result in any serious complications. Because adverse reactions are uncommon and transient, epidural injections are considered a safe therapeutic intervention. We describe the first case of persistent hiccups as a consequence of a thoracic epidural steroid injection in a patient with thoracic discogenic pain.
Adult informal caregivers reporting financial burden in Hawaii, Kansas, and Washington: Results from the 2007 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.

Abstract Background Given the unpaid nature of the work, informal caregiving can create a financial burden for caregivers. Little has been done to identify specific predictors of experiencing financial burden. This study investigated demographic and health factors comparing caregivers who reported having or not having financial burden. Methods Data are derived from adult caregivers (N = 3,317) as part of the 2007 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System in Hawaii, Kansas, and Washington. The adjusted odds ratios for reporting a financial burden were estimated for demographic and other risk factors. Results Caregivers who reported a financial burden were younger, had lower incomes, were more likely to be current smokers, have had a stroke, and rate their health as fair or poor compared to caregivers who did not report a financial burden. Caregivers who were younger (ages 18-34), resided with care recipients, spent 20-39 hours per week providing care, and reported having a disability were at a statistically significantly higher odds of reporting a financial burden. Conclusions/Implications Given the current economic difficulties faced by many Americans, further insights into the perceived financial burdens experienced by informal caregivers as well as linkages to policy and programs designed to support caregivers are critical for public health professionals to address the expanding needs in states and communities.
Upper atmosphere of Jupiter--a post voyager perspective

Some significant upper atmosphere features of Jupiter are discussed with reference to the Voyager observations of 1979. From the time of Pioneer observations in 1973-1974, the Jovian upper atmospheric temperature has increased by about 30%, the eddy diffusion coefficient at the homopause decreased by a factor of 100, the equatorial disk Lyman alpha intensity increased by a factor of 30, and the equatorial ionosphere became more extensive and showed diurnal variation. Important potential candidates for upper atmosphere energetics are thought to be the penetration of the magnetospheric soft electrons, Joule heating mechanism, and auroral electrons.
Rapid in planta evaluation of root expressed transgenes in chimeric soybean plants

Production of stable transgenic plants is one factor that limits rapid evaluation of tissue specific transgene expression. To hasten the assessment of transgenes in planta, we evaluated the use of chimeric soybean seedlings expressing transgenic products in roots. Tap roots from four-day old seedlings (cultivars ‘Jack’ and KS4704) were excised and hairy roots were induced from hypocotyls via Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated transformation. Inoculated hypocotyls were screened on a MS-based medium containing either 200 mg/L kanamycin or 20 mg/L hygromycin. Beta-glucuronidase (GUS) activity assay indicated that highest GUS expression was observed in hypocotyls exposed to a 4-d pre-inoculation time, a neutral pH (7.0) for the co-cultivation medium. A 170-bp of the Fib-1 gene and 292-bp of the Y25C1A.5 gene fragments, both related to nematode reproduction and fitness, were cloned independently into pANDA35HK vector using a Gateway cloning strategy. The resulting RNAi constructs of the genes fragments were transformed into soybean using the chimeric hairy root system and evaluated for its effect on soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines) fecundity. Confirmation of transformation was attained by polymerase chain reaction and Southern-blot analysis, and some potential for suppression of H. glycines reproduction was detected for the two constructs. This method takes on average four weeks to produce chimeric plants ready for transgene analysis.
Acute infarction of the left ventricular papillary muscle: Electrocardiographic pattern and recognition of its location

Background and hypothesis: ST-segment depression during acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is known to herald serious hemodynamic complications. Since the mechanism of this dependence is not clear, we reinvestigated the old concept of papillary muscle infarction (PMI) as a cause of marked ST depression. Methods: Autopsies and morpho-electrocardiographic correlations were performed in 53 patients with AMI involving one or both left ventricular papillary muscles, and in 10 patients with AMI, but without acute PMI. Results: ST-segment depression ≥l mm in at least two leads (mean 3.6 ± 2.2 mm) was found in 46 (86.8%) patients with, and in one without acute PMI. Thus, the sensitivity and specificity in selecting patients with acute PMI from among those with AMI were 86.8 and 90%, respectively, with an overall accuracy of diagnosis of acute PMI in the course of AMI of 87.3%. Among 26 patients with ST elevation consistent with diagnosis of AMI, ST depression, recorded in 22 patients, was insignificantly greater than in 24 of 27 patients without ST elevation: 4.1 ± 2.9 versus 3.1 ± 1.2 mm. Localization of ST depression in the limb leads allowed recognition of which papillary muscle suffered from acute infarction: ST depression in the inferior leads was seen only in patients with anterolateral PMI, whereas in leads I and/or aVL it was seen only in cases with posteromedial PMI. This rule was also valid in patients without concomitant ST elevation. Conclusion: Patients with acute PMI show marked ST-segment depression. Its location in the limb leads allows recognition of which papillary muscle has undergone necrosis. This cause of marked ST depression in patients with AMI may explain the high mortality in this particular group.
Cheddar and cheshire cheese rheology

Abstract Textural differences between Cheddar and Cheshire cheeses were examined rheologically to provide a means of distinguishing these two English cheeses. Body breakdown of a 60-wk Cheshire sample occurred at a lower strain than did a 20-wk sample, whereas a 60-wk Cheddar sample did not break down under the same conditions. All cheeses followed the Arrhenius equation, and the energy of activation obtained varied with age and type of cheese. Other analytical techniques showed differences between the samples but were not suitable for distinguishing one type of cheese from the other.
Diurnal variation in gonadotropic potency of the adenohypophysis of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica).

Abstract Japanese quail ( Coturnix coturnix japonica ) were raised from hatch under one of the following light regimens: continuous light, repeated cycles of 16 hours light and 8 hours darkness (16L:8D), 14L:10D, 6L:6D, and 8L:16D. The gonadotropic potencies of the acetone-dried adenohypophysis were determined for groups of 4-week-old males killed after exposure to various periods of light and of dark. The potencies were estimated by bioassay in which the weight increase in the testes of 2-week-old male coturnix that were reared under 8L:16D was used. In quail exposed to continuous light, gonadotropic potency of the adenohypophysis did not differ significantly among birds killed at 8-hour intervals. In birds subjected to 16L:8D, 14L:10D or 6L:6D, the potency was higher at the end of the light period than at 3 or 4 hours after beginning of darkness. No significant difference was observed in potencies during darkness. The results indicate that gonadotropin content in the adenohypophyses from immature male coturnix reared under certain light regimens changes with the daily light-dark rhythms.
Use of nonresorbable alloplastic implants for internal orbital reconstruction

Fractures of the internal orbit are common facial injuries. They can range in size from a small crack in the floor to extensive multiple wall defects. Their diagnosis and treatment planning have been greatly improved over the past 30 years because of the wide availability of computed tomography (CT). CT allows an assessment of the location of the fracture/defect and the amount of orbital soft tissue prolapse into the adjacent sinuses. When significant internal orbital defects are not reconstructed, malposition of the ocular globe can occur. Enophthalmos and hypoglobus are the most common consequences of internal orbital defects of the floor and/or medial wall. Surgical reconstruction of the fractured, displaced, or missing orbital walls has been shown to prevent these complications in the acute setting and restore globe position in the chronic setting.
Employment Prospects in Information Technology Jobs for Non—College-Educated Adults

Does it pay to go to college? In a previous issue, we published an article arguing that college degrees helped workers gain access to the information technology job market. But workers without a degree had a wage disadvantage in IT that was less than widely assumed. In this article, three economists rebut the claim, contending that the disadvantage for those who do not attend college is striking and, in fact, has grown.
Carcinogenic effect of N-nitrosobis (2-oxopropyl)amine in newborn rats

N-nitrosobis(2-oxopropyl)amine (BOP) was administered twice weekly for a total of 11 doses to 2-day-old Fischer F-344 rats of both sexes to ascertain the spectrum of tissues sensitive to its carcinogenic effects. At 26 weeks, the following incidence of neoplasms were encountered in male and females, respectively; hepatocellular carcinoma (53 and 46%); nephroblastoma (21 and 11%); and in males gonadal stromal tumors of testis (68%). Although acidophilic and basophilic acinar cell foci were encountered in pancreas, these were few in number and microscopic. These findings indicate that in newborn Fischer rats, hepatocytes, epithelial and mesenchymal cells of the kidney, and mesenchymal cells of testis are more sensitive to BOP than those of exocrine pancreas.
On chiral selectivity of enantiomers using a circularly polarized pulsed laser under resonant and off-resonant conditions

The rotating-wave approximation is employed to study the interaction of a pulsed circularly polarized laser with a chiral molecule with a view to controlling state probabilities. For a two-level model system, closed form solutions are available for ground and excited state populations for both resonant and off-resonant one-photon absorption transitions driven by lasers described by a wide class of pulse envelope functions, only one of which, the hyperbolic secant, is symmetric. By appropriate choice of the laser pulse width and envelope function, complete control is possible for molecules with fixed orientation with respect to the laser propagation direction when the optical frequency is equal to the difference in energy levels. In contrast, for off-resonant transitions, full control is lost for asymmetric pulse shapes. When the molecule assumes random orientations, the difference in the excited state relative populations of enantiomers is reduced significantly. Based on the study of off-resonant behavior, a new approach for chiral separation, which can dramatically improve the selectivity, is suggested.
Thermal aging effects on the microstructure and short-term oxidation behavior of a cast Ni3Al alloy

Abstract Specimens of the castable nickel aluminide alloy IC221M were annealed in still air at 900 °C to examine the effects of oxidation and thermal aging on its microstructure. The alloy, which is comprised primarily of a γ–γ′ mixture but also contains a lower melting γ+Ni 5 Zr eutectic, is used in applications that require casting. The as-cast microstructure is dendritic and exhibits microsegregation of the alloying elements. Microstructures of as-cast specimens annealed for periods up to 16,600 h were examined using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy with spectrum imaging. Although the material partially homogenizes with aging time, approximately 3 vol% of the γ+Ni 5 Zr eutectic remains after 16,600 h, and there is a tendency for the eutectic colonies to spherodize. Oxidation products were identified using X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. During the initial stages of oxidation, the oxide is predominantly NiO with small amounts of Cr 2 O 3 , ZrO 2 , NiCr 2 O 4 , and θ-Al 2 O 3 . Initial oxidation occurs primarily in the interdendritic regions of the microstructure. With further aging, the predominant surface oxides become NiO and NiAl 2 O 4 , with a continuous film of α-Al 2 O 3 forming immediately beneath them. Although these oxides are constrained to the near surface region, other oxides penetrate to depths greater than 10 times that of the continuous surface oxide, facilitated by oxidation of the γ+Ni 5 Zr interdendritic eutectic. These oxides appear in the microstructure as long, thin spikes of ZrO 2 surrounded by a sheath of Al 2 O 3 .
Landing a job in industry [Student's Corner]

This article surveys industry professionals in the Seattle area, but their pearls of wisdom apply to any job market. Representatives from junior to senior levels and in positions from product development to entrepreneurship weighed in to give you an idea of the many options available to biomedical engineers after graduation, as well as some strategies on how to get the job you want.