cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Concentration of bacteriophage lysates by filter chromatography.

Abstract High-titered phage stocks are required for carrying out genetic and physicochemical studies on bacteriophages. This study describes a simple method for the concentration of coliphages MS-2 and T2 by charge-modified filters. Phage lysates were first clarified by filtration through serum-coated membrane filters. The clarified lysate was adjusted to pH 6 and passed through a Zeta-plus filter (30 S size). Greater than 99% virus adsorption occurred under these conditions. Adsorbed viruses were successfully eluted by small volumes of 3% beef extract (pH 10) which was subsequently neutralized with 3% beef extract (pH2). A concentration factor as great as 126 could be achieved by this method, with recoveries ranging from 54% to 97% (average = 69%).
NATO expansion: A realist's view

(2000). NATO expansion: A realist's view. Contemporary Security Policy: Vol. 21, Explaining Nato Enlargement, pp. 23-38.
Numerical prediction of the fracture of a thick pressurized shell subjected to a liquid nitrogen shock

Abstract The probabilistic elastoplastic stress criterion for cleavage fracture is used in the frame of the local approach to fracture to analyse a fracture experiment in which a one meter long cylinder, with a longitudinal straight crack, was submitted to a thermal shock by liquid nitrogen. The computation, which gives the variation of the probability of fracture with time during the cooling transient, leads to predict a value for the most probable fracture time which is very close to the experimental one. The LEFM approach, which would predict a later initiation time can be improved by incorporating the probabilistic criterion in the frame of the small scale yielding analysis.
Faculty Lived Experiences in the Online Environment

This phenomenological study investigated the meaning of the online teaching experience of college faculty when there was an absence of physical presence. Findings show that the online experience br...
Functionalization of quantum dots with multidentate zwitterionic ligands: impact on cellular interactions and cytotoxicity

Surface functionalization of nanoparticles is an important determinant of their interactions with biological compartments at the nano–bio interface. In this paper, a series of multidentate zwitterionic polymeric ligands were synthesized and used to functionalize the surface of quantum dots (QDs). The structure of polymer ligands was designed by changing the molar ratio of reactants and precursors used in the reaction. A three-component micro-emulsion method was developed to improve the efficiency of ligand exchange and avoid cross-linking reactions. Highly stable, compact and biocompatible zwitterionic QDs with different surface charge densities were obtained after ligand exchange. Variation of the surface charge density of QDs was verified by zeta potential measurements. The interaction of zwitterionic QDs with different cancer and normal cell lines (KB 3-1, COLO 205 and HEK 293) was surface charge density dependent. From cell viability studies, it was shown that higher surface charge density resulted in lower cytotoxicity of zwitterionic QDs when incubated with both cancer and normal cell lines. Furthermore, the feasibility of conjugating functionalized QDs (coated with amine zwitterionic polymer ligands) with a biomolecule was demonstrated. This was exemplified by the conjugation of amine zwitterionic QDs with a cRGD peptide, which showed improved interaction of cRGD-QDs with ανβ3 integrin receptors expressed on U87MG glioblastoma tumor cells. Engineering the surface charge density and functionalization of nanoparticles, by multidentate zwitterionic ligands, provides a strategy to tune the surface properties of QDs, which impacts their cytotoxicity and cellular interaction at the nano–bio interface.
Preperitoneal suprahepatic pacemaker generator placement in the pediatric population

We have used a preperitoneal suprahepatic location for pacemaker generator placement in pediatric patients requiring permanent pacemakers with epicardial leads. The technique is rapid, simple, and safe, and cosmesis is excellent, making this approach particularly advantageous in the younger infant and neonate.
Quantitative estimation by indicator-dilution technics of the contribution of blood from each lung to the left-to-right shunt in atrial septal defect.

A method based on the initial portion of indicator-dilution curves has been used to determine the proportion of blood from each lung which drains anomalously. The results obtained appear to substantiate the derivation and permit the expression, in numerical values, of the greater proportion of anomalous drainage of blood from the right lung in the usual case of atrial septal defect. The principal assumptions pertaining to the method are discussed in some detail.
Centimeter-scale variability in the chemistry of convective rains

A standard National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP) rain collection bucket was sectioned with 220 test tubes of 1.5 cm diameter. Eleven rains from thunderstorms were collected. Analyses were made for Ca, Na and K concentrations in the test tube liquids. The relative standard deviation (RSD), after correction for the analytical RSD, was 0 to 15% for Ca, 0 to 24% for Na, and 0 to 17% for K. Analytical RSD for Ca, Na and K determined from standards were, respectively, 5.4, 6.6 and 12%. Calculations indicate that the difference of 2 to 3 giant nuclei per test tube of calcite (Ca), sea salt (Na) and clay (K) would account for these different RSDs. Concentration ranges in the rains varied from 0.14 to 2.95 mg L−1 for Ca, 0.024 to 0.23 mg L−1 for Na, and 0.014 to 0.064 mg L−1 for K. The area between the test tubes which was 40% of the total collector area provided a bottom sample which on average agreed within 1.3% of the average value of the test tubes.
Critical Thinking: Elements of Interior Design Theory

Critical thinking is a dualistic concept that couples modes of designing with decisive theories of criticism. A model of intellectual understandings is proposed as necessary for criticism and the types of critics using this criteria arc reviewed. Theoretical and historical ideas that influenced changes in interior design and architecture are presented in a time-line context to illustrate the aspects of evaluating, interpreting and describing, which are parts of interior design criticism.
Transport and Mixing in Patient Specific Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms With Lagrangian Coherent Structures

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are characterized by disturbed flow patterns, low and oscillatory wall shear stress with high gradients, increased particle residence time, and mild turbulence. Diameter is the most common metric for rupture prediction, although this metric can be unreliable. We hypothesize that understanding the flow topology and mixing inside AAA could provide useful insight into mechanisms of aneurysm growth. AAA morphology has high variability, as with AAA hemodynamics, and therefore we consider patient-specific analyses over several small to medium sized AAAs. Vortical patterns dominate AAA hemodynamics and traditional analyses based on the Eulerian fields (e.g. velocity) fail to convey the complex flow structures. The computation of finite-time Lyapunov exponent (FTLE) fields and underlying Lagrangian coherent structures (LCS) help reveal a Lagrangian template for quantifying the flow [1].Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Impact of self-reported guideline compliance: Bloodstream infection prevention in a national collaborative

Background We sought to examine self-reported compliance with 5 evidence-based central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) prevention practices and link compliance to CLABSI rates in a national patient safety collaborative. Methods We analyzed data from a national CLABSI prevention program. Adult ICUs participating in the program submitted their CLABSI rates and a Team Checkup Tool (TCT) on a monthly basis. The TCT responses provided self-reported perceptions about how reliably the unit team performed the evidence-based practices in the previous month. Monthly data were aggregated into quarters for the analysis. We analyzed a total of 2775 ICU quarters during the program. Results Chlorhexidine skin preparation and hand hygiene had the highest adherence. Avoidance of the femoral site and removal of unnecessary lines had the lowest compliance. Regression results showed that consistent performance of all practices was significantly associated with lower CLABSI rates. In terms of each practice's independent effect, femoral site avoidance for line placement and removal of unnecessary lines were independently associated with lower CLABSI rates after controlling for other factors. Conclusion Our findings suggest that uptake of the 2 low-compliance practices, avoidance of the femoral site and removal of unnecessary lines, is important for reducing CLABSI rates in conjunction with other practices.
Diophantine Classes of Holomorphy Rings of Global Fields

Abstract This paper introduces the notions of Diophantine generation and Diophantine equivalence and explores the resulting Diophantine classes of holomorphy rings of number fields and of one variable function fields over finite fields of constants.
The experimental approach to accurate carbon-13 spin-lattice relaxation measurements

Abstract The experimental requirements for pulse FT NMR measurements of spin-lattice relaxation times ( T 1 's) are quite demanding. This paper treats many of the critical experimental parameters in T, experiments; the data and discussions rely on previous literature as well as an extensive set of new measurements. It is shown that variables such as sample geometry and state, transmitter rf pulse power, computer and data processing characteristics, and instrumental gain stability and magnetic field homogeneity must all be optimized or closely controlled in order to obtain accurate data. The choice of a specific pulse sequence [inversion-recovery (IRFT), saturation-recovery (SRFT), progressive saturation (PSFT) or other variations] depends on a number of factors. The SRFT and PSFT sequences are faster and somewhat more convenient than the IRFT method. However, the pulsing requirements in the PSFT method are most stringent and large errors may easily be introduced in these T, measurements. The effect on determined T 1 's of mis-set pulse lengths and variable spectral offsets was studied for the three pulse sequences. The PSFT sequence can give substantially (25% or more) incorrect T 1 's while systematic errors in the IRFT and SRFT experiments are under 10–15% except under extreme conditions. The SRFT sequence is approximately twice as fast as the IRFT scheme for determination of T 1 's longer than a few seconds. Because of their relative insensitivity to instrumental and other experimental deficiencies the IRFT or SRFT pulse sequences will be preferred for T, measurements in the great majority of laboratories. Because homospoil pulses are utilized in the SRFT sequence, it is the preferred method only for measurement of T 1 's longer than about 5 seconds.
Nonperturbative perturbation theory

Abstract In this talk we describe a recently proposed graphical perturbative calculational scheme for quantum field theory. The basic idea is to expand in the power of the interaction term. For example, to solve a λφ4 theory in d-dimensional space-time, we introduce a small parameter δ and consider a λ(φ2)1+δ field theory. We show how to expand such a theory as a series in powers of δ. The resulting perturbation series appears to have a finite radius of convergence and numerical results for low-dimensional models are good. We have computed the two-point and four-point Green's functions to second order in powers of δ and the 2n-point Green's functions (n > 2) to order δ. We explain how to renormalize the theory and show that, to first order in powers of δ, when δ > 0 and d ⪰ 4 the theory is free. This conclusion remains valid to second order in powers of δ, and we believe that it remains valid to all orders in powers of δ. The new perturbative scheme is consistent with global supersymmetry invariance. We examine a two-dimensional supersymmetric quantum field theory in which we do not know of any other means for doing analytical calculations. We illustrate the power of this new technique by computing the ground-state energy density E to second order in this new perturbation theory. We show that there is a beautiful and delicate cancellation between infinite classes of graphs which leads to the result that E = 0.
Enhancement of defect-induced Raman modes at the fundamental absorption edge of electron-irradiated GaAs

Resonant Raman scattering in electron-irradiated GaAs has been studied. Enhancements in the scattering cross section of both intrinsic and defect-induced phonon modes at the fundamental absorption edge are reported. The experimental results are compared quantitatively with theory. A new scattering mechanism involving elastic scattering between electrons and defects is proposed to explain the resonance of the defect-induced Raman modes.
Fuel optimal reorientation of axisymmetric spin-stabilized satellites

The fuel optimal spin axis reorientation problem for large and small maneuver times is solved using a new numerical technique. The approach, which employs the adaptive grid bisection search, is shown to be useful in determining the fuel optimal impulsive control strategy, particularly when rapid maneuvers are desired. For large enough maneuver times, the method produces the two-impulse reorientation maneuver. For even larger maneuver times, the existence of multiple optimal pulsing schemes is demonstrated.
Evidence that Spt10 and Spt21 of Saccharomyces cerevisiae play distinct roles in vivo and functionally interact with MCB-binding factor, SCB-binding factor and Snf1.

Mutations in SPT10 and SPT21 of Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been previously shown to cause two prominent mutant phenotypes: (1) defects in transcription of particular histone genes and (2) suppression of Ty and δ-insertion mutations (Spt− phenotype). The requirement for Spt10 and Spt21 for transcription of particular histone genes suggested that they may interact with two factors previously shown to be present at histone loci, SBF (Swi4 and Swi6) and MBF (Mbp1 and Swi6). Therefore, we have studied swi4Δ, mbp1Δ, and swi6Δ mutants with respect to histone gene transcription and for interactions with spt10Δ and spt21Δ. Our results suggest that MBF and SBF play only modest roles in activation of histone gene transcription. In addition, we were surprised to find that swi4Δ, mbp1Δ, and swi6Δ mutations suppress the spt21Δ Spt− phenotype, but not the spt21Δ defect in histone gene transcription. In contrast, both swi4Δ and mbp1Δ cause lethality when combined with spt10Δ. To learn more about mutations that can suppress the spt21Δ Spt− phenotype, we performed a genetic screen and identified spt21Δ suppressors in seven additional genes. Three of these spt21Δ suppressors also cause lethality when combined with spt10Δ. Analysis of one spt21Δ suppressor, reg1, led to the finding that hyperactivation of Snf1 kinase, as caused by reg1Δ, suppresses the Spt− phenotype of spt21Δ. Taken together, these genetic interactions suggest distinct roles for Spt21 and Spt10 in vivo that are sensitive to multiple perturbations in transcription networks.
Lack of findings for the association between obesity risk and usual sugar-sweetened beverage consumption in adults--a primary analysis of databases of CSFII-1989-1991, CSFII-1994-1998, NHANES III, and combined NHANES 1999-2002.

Abstract The relationship between obesity risk and sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption was examined together with multiple lifestyle factors. Statistical analysis was performed using population dietary survey databases of USDA CSFII 1989–1991, CSFII 1994–1996, CDC NHANES III, and combined NHANES 1999–2002. Totally, 38,409 individuals, ages 20–74 years, with accompanying data of dietary intake, lifestyle factors, and anthropometrics were included in the descriptive statistics and risk analysis. Analytical results indicate that obesity risk was significantly and positively associated with gender, age, daily TV/screen watching hours and dietary fat content, and negatively associated with smoking habit, education and physical activity; obesity risk was not significantly associated with SSB consumption pattern, dietary saturated fat content and total calorie intake. No elevated BMI values or increased obesity rates were observed in populations frequently consuming SSB compared to populations infrequently consuming SSB. Additionally, one-day food consumption data was found to overestimate SSB usual intake by up to 38.9% compared to the data of multiple survey days. Conclusion: multiple lifestyle factors and higher dietary fat intake were significantly associated with obesity risk. Populations who frequently consumed SSB, primarily HFCS sweetened beverages, did not have a higher obesity rate or increased obesity risk than that of populations which consumed SSB infrequently.
Phenology and Density of Haplaxius crudus (Homoptera: Cixiidae) on Three Southern Turfgrasses

Field populations of Haplaxius crudus (Van Duzee) were studied on St. Augustinegrass, Stenotaphrum secundatum (Walt.) Kunze; bahiagrass, Paspalum notatum Flugge; and bermudagrass, Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. and C. X magenissii Hurcombe, from July, 1974, to July, 1975, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Haplaxius crudus completed development on all 3 species of grasses. Significantly higher numbers (P < 0.01) of adults and nymphs were collected on St. Augustinegrass; however, populations fluctuated less throughout the year on bahiagrass. H. crudus had a sex ratio of 1.7♀:1♂ in this study. The sex ratio was biased toward males during the population peaks of adults.
X-ray Crystal Structure of the Liver X Receptor β Ligand Binding Domain: REGULATION BY A HISTIDINE-TRYPTOPHAN SWITCH *

The x-ray crystal structures of the human liver X receptor β ligand binding domain complexed to sterol and nonsterol agonists revealed a perpendicular histidinetryptophan switch that holds the receptor in its active conformation. Hydrogen bonding interactions with the ligand act to position the His-435 imidazole ring against the Trp-457 indole ring, allowing an electrostatic interaction that holds the AF2 helix in the active position. The neutral oxysterol 24(S),25-epoxycholesterol accepts a hydrogen bond from His-435 that positions the imidazole ring of the histidine above the pyrrole ring of the tryptophan. In contrast, the acidic T0901317 hydroxyl group makes a shorter hydrogen bond with His-435 that pulls the imidazole over the electron-rich benzene ring of the tryptophan, possibly strengthening the electrostatic interaction. Point mutagenesis of Trp-457 supports the observation that the ligand-histidine-tryptophan coupling is different between the two ligands. The lipophilic liver X receptor ligand-binding pocket is larger than the corresponding steroid hormone receptors, which allows T0901317 to adopt two distinct conformations. These results provide a molecular basis for liver X receptor activation by a wide range of endogenous neutral and acidic ligands.
The effect of hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury in a murine model of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.

Background Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) refers to an increasingly diagnosed condition involving triglyceride accumulation into hepatocytes resulting in a broad spectrum of liver injury. The progression of NAFLD, a relatively benign condition, to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) involves the hepatic infiltration of inflammatory cells and subsequent hepatocellular injury. Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury of the liver is a major complication of liver resection, hepatic trauma, and liver transplantation. To date, there have been no studies that have evaluated the effects of hepatic I/R on models of NASH. Objective Evaluate the effects of hepatic I/R on a mouse model of NASH. Methods A mouse model of progressive NASH was developed and evaluated using C57BL/6 mice fed a methionine choline deficient diet for 3, 6, 9, and 12 wk. Mice subsequently underwent 90 min of partial hepatic ischemia with reperfusion of 1, 4, and 8 h. Mice were sacrificed after the indicated periods, and blood and liver samples were taken for analysis. Results Mice fed the MCD diet showed a rapid induction of hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis by 3 wk that persisted over the 12-wk period of diet, as demonstrated by histologic examination, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and liver content of myeloperoxidase (MPO). The response to I/R in livers with progressive NASH fed MCD diet for 3, 6, 9, and 12 wk showed marked neutrophil recruitment and hepatocyte necrosis. Conclusion These data suggest the inflammatory response from I/R is augmented in livers with NASH histopathology compared with normal liver.
Utility of Routine Post-Therapy Surveillance Imaging in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

Purpose We examined the utility of post-therapy surveillance imaging in a large, prospectively enrolled cohort of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) from the United States and confirmed our results in an independent cohort of patients from France. Methods Patients with newly diagnosed DLBCL and treated with anthracycline-based immunochemotherapy were identified from the Molecular Epidemiology Resource (MER) of the University of Iowa/Mayo Clinic Lymphoma Specialized Program of Research Excellence and the Leon Berard Cancer Center, Lyon, France. In those with relapse, details at relapse and outcomes were
On the Optimal Policy Structure in Serial Inventory Systems with Lost Sales

We study a periodically reviewed, serial inventory system in which excess demand from external customers is lost. We derive elementary properties of the vector of optimal order quantities in this system. In particular, we derive bounds on the sensitivity (or, more mathematically, the derivative) of the optimal order quantity at each stage to the vector of the current inventory levels. Our analysis uses the concept of L-natural-convexity, which was studied in discrete convex analysis and recently used in the study of single-stage inventory systems with lost sales. We also remark on how our analysis extends to models with capacity constraints and/or backordering.
ANEMIA AND HYPOPROTEINEMIA : WEIGHT MAINTENANCE EFFECTED BY FOOD PROTEINS BUT NOT BY MIXTURES OF PURE AMINO ACIDS.

Dogs with sustained anemia and hypoproteinemia due to bleeding and a continuing low protein or protein-free diet with abundant iron are used to test the value of food proteins as contrasted with mixtures of pure amino acids. The stimulus of double depletion (anemia and hypoproteinemia) drives the body to use every source of protein and all protein-building materials with the utmost conservation. Raiding of body tissue protein to produce plasma protein and hemoglobin is a factor when protein-building factors are supplied in small amounts. In this severe test (double depletion) the good food proteins in adequate amounts are able to maintain body weight, a strongly positive nitrogen balance, and produce considerable amounts of new hemoglobin and plasma protein. Casein, lactalbumin, whole egg protein, liver protein are all adequate in amounts of 150 to 250 gm. protein per week. Under comparable conditions mixtures of pure amino acids (essential for growth) do produce large amounts of new hemoglobin and plasma protein and a positive nitrogen balance but do not maintain body weight. The loss of weight is conspicuous even with large amounts of amino acids (200 to 300 gm. protein equivalent per week). Methionine, threonine, and phenylalanine are related to nitrogen conservation in growth mixtures of essential amino acids (Paper I) but when these three are given together they have little influence on the doubly depleted dog (Table 3). Some unidentified substance or compound present in certain proteins but absent in mixtures of the essential amino acids may be responsible for these differences in the response of the doubly depleted dog.
Spindle-membrane associations in freeze fractured HeLa cells

Mitotic HeLa cells, obtained by means of thymidine and nocodazole synchronization, were freeze fractured, and spindle-membrane associations were studied. Except for small vesicles most membrane structures were excluded from the spindle region. A few tubular to lamellar membrane arrays were observed that projected into the spindle region from the vicinity of the spindle poles. Concentric layers of flattened, extensively fenestrated cisternae were found in the cytoplasm surrounding the spindle. The plasma membrane overlying the midbody in early G1 cells was examined.
Limitations on the Theories of High Temperature Superconductors

Experimental data and consideration of theoretical constraints put limitations on the applicability of Boson-exchange BCS-like theoretical proposals to explain high temperature superconductivity in the copper oxide systems.
A Comparative Study of Inhibited Lubricants for Dry Circuits Sliding Contacts

The tribology of boundary lubricated dry circuit, sliding contacts is becoming increasingly complex as the density of electronic packaging increases. Occasionally, the connector designs are further complicated by material modification or imposed system increases in thermal exposure. One such material change which exposed copperberyllium alloy (C17200) to an uninhibited contact lubricant resulted in autocatalytic oxidation and thermal degradation of the refined mineral oil in 72 h. This prompted a study of natural and synthetic lubricants whose formulation could provide adequate inhibition to oxidation, thermal decomposition, and corrosion with minimal friction and wear. The test methods used in the screening process are discussed. The polyol ester oils proved superior for the intended applications.
Petrology and Geochemistry of the Laramie Batholith and Related Metamorphic Rocks of Precambrian Age, Eastern Wyoming: Reply

The Laramie batholith, which is exposed over an area of about 2000 km 2 in eastern Wyoming, has gradational contacts on the north and southeast with metamorphic terranes (the northern and central metamorphic complexes, respectively). The northern metamorphic complex is composed dominantly of gneiss, and the central metamorphic complex is composed dominantly of gneiss and migmatite. Anorthosite and related syenites intrude the central metamorphic complex on the south, and mafic dikes cross-cut all rocks in the northern and central parts of the range. Foliation in the northern metamorphic complex strikes west-southwest to east-southeast. In the central metamorphic complex the strike varies from northeast (on the north) to northwest (on the south). Relict foliation (striking dominantly northeast) and occasional amphibolite roof pendants occur in the batholith. Elements in the batholith appear to have lognormal-type distributions with Fe, Na, Sr, Zr, Mn, Ca, Ti, Al, and Mg showing positive skewness and Si, K, Ni, and Rb negative skewness. Element dispersion increases as concentration decreases. The batholith, on the whole, is extremely uniform in composition and appears to have followed a typical calc-alkaline differentiation trend. Gneisses of the northern metamorphic complex are enriched in Fe, Mg, Ca, Ti, Mn, and Ni, and are depleted in Al, Na, and Rb compared to batholithic granitic rocks. Gneisses and migmatites of the central metamorphic complex are similar in composition to the batholith, differing only in relative enrichment of Ca and Sr and depletion of Si, K, and Rb. K/Rb and Rb/Sr ratios are interpreted in terms of a crystal-melt equilibria origin both for the batholith and the light, granitic migmatite bands. These ratios indicate that the light migmatite bands were probably not produced by partial melting of the enclosing gneisses or by the introduction of material derived from the batholith. The normative composition of the batholith, interpreted in light of experimental data in the system Ab-An-Or-Q-H 2 O, is also most easily explained in terms of a crystal-melt equilibria origin. Such compositional data, however, are not sufficient to support or negate any of the popular theories regarding the origin of the migmatites in the central metamorphic complex. Considered collectively, the field, petrographic, and major and trace element data presented in this paper are perhaps most easily interpreted in terms of an origin for the Laramie batholith, involving the fractional crystallization of an intermediate or mafic magma derived by the partial melting of the lower crust or upper mantle.
Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Vocational Fit Assessment (VFA).

Objective The objective of this study was to determine the psychometric properties of the Vocational Fit Assessment (VFA) by examining its factor structure and subscale reliability. Method This prospective cross-sectional study used two surveys (one for worker abilities and one for job demands) to collect the data needed for the psychometric evaluation of the VFA. Latent parallel analysis and ordinal exploratory factor analysis were used to iteratively refine VFA subscales. Results Ten unidimensional subscales emerged from factor analysis of VFA items: (1) Cognitive Abilities, (2) Communication Skills, (3) Computer Skills, (4) Higher Task-Related Abilities, (5) Interpersonal Skills, (6) Lower Task-Related Abilities, (7) Physical Abilities, (8) Safety, (9) Self-Determination, and (10) Work Structure. Subscale internal consistency (ordinal α) was ≥.86 for VFA for worker abilities and ≥.77 for VFA for job demands. Conclusion The unidimensional structure of VFA subscales and estimates of internal consistency lend initial evidence in support of their reliability and validity.
Pain Insensitivity in Schizophrenia: A Neglected Phenomenon and Some Implications

The literature on insensitivity to pain in schizophrenia is reviewed. Numerous reports indicate that, relative to normals, individuals with schizophrenia are insensitive to physical pain associated with illness and injury. In addition, insensitivity to pain of various sorts administered in experimental studies has been reported frequently in this population. This extensive and diverse literature of clinical and experimental reports suggests that many individuals with schizophrenia are less sensitive to pain than normal individuals. However, because the experimental studies--almost all of which were conducted before 1980--suffer from a variety of methodological limitations, this research provides neither a satisfactory characterization nor an adequate explanation of pain insensitivity in schizophrenia. It is argued that this widely reported but currently neglected phenomenon has important implications for physical health, self-mutilation, homelessness, premorbid development, and affective flattening in individuals with schizophrenia.
The sensations of everyday life: empirical, theoretical, and pragmatic considerations.

The experience of being human is embedded in sensory events of everyday life. This lecture reviews sensory processing literature, including neuroscience and social science perspectives. Introduced is Dunn’s Model of Sensory Processing, and the evidence supporting this model is summarized. Specifically, using Sensory Profile questionnaires (i.e., items describing responses to sensory events in daily life; persons mark the frequency of each behavior), persons birth to 90 years of age demonstrate four sensory processing patterns: sensory seeking, sensory avoiding, sensory sensitivity, and low registration. These patterns are based on a person’s neurological thresholds and self-regulation strategies. Psychophysiology studies verify these sensory processing patterns; persons with strong preferences in each pattern also have unique patterns of habituation and responsivity in skin conductance. Studies also indicate that persons with disabilities respond differently than peers on these questionnaires, suggesting underlying poor sensory processing in certain disorders, including autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, developmental delays, and schizophrenia. The author proposes relationships between sensory processing and temperament and personality traits. The four categories of temperament share some consistency with the four sensory processing patterns described in Dunn’s model. As with temperament, each person has some level of responsiveness within each sensory processing preference (i.e., a certain amount of seeking, avoiding, etc., not one or the other). The author suggests that one’s sensory processing preferences simultaneously reflect his or her nervous system needs and form the basis for the manifestation of temperament and personality. The final section of this lecture outlines parameters for developing best practice that supports interventions based on this knowledge.
Characterization and transformation of unstructured control flow in bulk synchronous GPU applications

In this paper we identify important classes of program control flows in applications targeted to commercially available graphics processing units (GPUs) and characterize their presence in real workloads such as those that occur in CUDA and OpenCL. Broadly, control flow can be characterized as structured or unstructured. It is shown that most existing techniques for handling divergent control in bulk synchronous GPU applications handle structured control flow efficiently, some are incapable of executing unstructured control flow directly, and none handles unstructured control flow efficiently. An approach to reduce the impact of this problem is provided. An unstructured-to-structured control flow transformation for CUDA kernels is implemented and its performance impact on a large class of GPU applications is assessed. The results quantify the importance of improving support for programs with unstructured control flow on GPUs. The transformation can also be used in a JIT compiler pass to execute programs with unstructured control flow on the GPU devices that do not support unstructured control flow. This is an important capability for execution portability of applications using GPU accelerators.
Comparative study of walking and climbing speeds among Neotropical harvestmen from Costa Rica

Abstract Relatively little is known about factors that contribute to microhabitat selection among Central American harvestmen. In this study, we compared walking and climbing speeds for five common species from Costa Rica representing the families Cosmetidae (3 species), Gonyleptidae (1 species) and Sclerosomatidae (1 species). Our sample included two arboreal species, two species that infrequently occupy perches in the vegetation, and one species that rarely climbs. Our analyses revealed no significant interspecific differences in climbing speed, although species with relatively long legs walked significantly faster than species with shorter legs. An arboreal habit did not correlate with increased climbing speed, and all species walked significantly faster than they climbed.
Future Prospects For Foreign Investment In Lithuania: Does This Baltic Tiger Still Have Teeth?

Lithuania’s economy has gone through stages of feudal system, serfdom, centrally planned command economy and market-based economy. After its liberation at the end of the last century, Lithuania’s transition is in process, as evidenced by the development of economic frameworks. Radical reforms, including the opening of markets, implementation of flat tax rates, rapid privatization of businesses, and efforts to maintain a stable currency, set the tone for phenomenal economic growth, not only in Lithuania, but in neighboring Estonia and Latvia as well. The Baltic Region experienced monumental growth in the mid to late 1990s, which accelerated through the early 21st century. Sweeping reforms and growth culminated with the accession of Lithuania into the European Union in 2004. The combined economic story of Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia is quite comparable to that of the Asian Tigers of South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan. The three countries have thus earned the title of The Baltic Tigers. Lithuania’s accession into the EU fostered further development of the country and its economy on both the financial and political fronts.
Photochemical strengthening of silica aerogels modified with coumarin groups

Abstract Silica aerogels were silated with coumarin functionalities to allow for strengthening through the photochemical dimerization of the coumarin groups. Coumarin modified silica gels were prepared by either co-polymerizing tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) with small amounts of 7-(3-triethoxysilylpropoxy)coumarin (TEPC) or by surface modifying the silica gel with 7-(3-trimethoxysilylpropoxy)coumarin (TMPC). Aerogels, prepared by supercritical carbon dioxide drying, were irradiated with ultraviolet light (365 nm) for varying lengths of time and the flexural strength of cylindrical samples was measured. Copolymerization of TEPC with TMOS resulted in aerogels that, while initially weaker than pure silica aerogels, showed a 41% increase in flexural strength with 20 min exposure to UV. In contrast, the surface modified aerogels, while stronger than pure silica aerogels, showed no influence on flexural strength with exposure to UV.
The Res Judicata Effect of Bankruptcy Court Judgments: The Procedural and Constitutional Concerns

This article seeks to resolve the conflict in the circuits and argues that bankruptcy court judgments should not bar the assertion of non-core claims because to do so violates the basic principles of res judicata and threatens to undermine fundamental Article III values or create judicial inefficiencies in an effort to preserve such values. Part II of the article provides the relevant Article III background, and identifies the key Article III cases: Northern Pipeline Construction Company v. Marathon Pipe Line Company and Commodity Futures Trading Commission v. Schor. This section explores the impact of Northern Pipeline which held that the 1978 Bankruptcy Reform Act was unconstitutional because it impermissibly gave Article III judicial powers to bankruptcy judges.Describing the Congressional response to Northern Pipeline, Part III explains the Bankruptcy Amendments and Federal Judgeship Act of 1984. The next section examines the current split in the courts over whether a bankruptcy court's judgment bars further litigation of any claim, including non-core claims, that arises out of the transaction at issue. Finally, Part V seeks to resolve the split in the circuits by arguing that the general principles of res judicata, concerns about fundamental Article III values and judicial economy support the proposition that bankruptcy court judgments should not bar non-core claims.
A Supplement to Accounting for Stock Options (Uva-C-2155)

This technical note provides additional information with regards to the tax consequences of employee stock options and can be used in conjunction with UVA-C-2155. Specifically, the note provides information about the disqualification of incentive stock options (ISOs), the alternative minimum tax consequences of ISOs, and the Section 83 (b) election.
Effects of Dimethyl Sulfoxide on the Biological Activity of Selected Miticides and Insecticides

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) at 100 and 1000 ppm had no evident effect on the root absorption, translocation, and toxicity of oxydemetonmethyl, disuIfoton, and demeton in cotton growing in nutrient solution. Effects were measured by bioassay with the tumid spider mite, Tetranychus tumidus Banks, placed on the foliage. Bioassay also showed that 1% DMSO had no significant effect on the absorption, translocation, and toxicity of oxydemeton-methyl applied as a dip to cotyledons of young squash plants. DMSO alone and in combination with 0.02% B-1956 surfactant in nutrient solution failed to aid in the root absorption and translocation of lethal amounts of carbophenothion, DDT, dicofol, dieldrin, endosulfan, ethion, and malathion in cotton and squash seedlings DMSO also failed to aid in the translocation of lethal amounts of the nonsystemic pesticides when applied as cotyledon dips. In topical application tests on larvae of the Mexican bean beetle, Epilachna varivestis Mulsant, the use of DMSO significantly increased the LT50 value for carbaryl compared with the LT50 when acetone was the solvent. DMSO had no significant effect on the LT50 and LT95 values for malathion, and it decreased the LT50 and LT95values for endosulfan.
Emergence of Excited-State Plasmon Modes in Linear Hydrogen Chains from Time-Dependent Quantum Mechanical Methods

Explicitly time-dependent configuration-interaction theory is used to predict a new type of plasmonic behavior in linear hydrogen chains. After an intense ultrashort laser pulse brings the system into a broad superposition of excited states, the electronic dipole of the entire chain oscillates coherently, and the system is predicted to emit radiation at energies significantly lower than the first absorption band. A simple classical model accurately predicts the energy of this plasmon resonance for different hydrogen chain lengths and electron densities, demonstrating that collective, free-electron-like behavior can arise in chains of as few as 20 hydrogen atoms. The excitation mechanism for this plasmonic resonance is a highly nonlinear, multiphoton process, different from the linear excitation of ordinary surface plasmons.
Drag and Diffusivity Within Emergent Vegetation

Aquatic plants convert mean kinetic energy into turbulent kinetic energy at the scale of the plant. This energy transfer, linked to stem-wake generation, affects both the vegetative drag and the plant-induced turbulent diffusivity. Drawing on this phenomenological link we develop a model which couples these flow parameters. Experimental observations are presented which support the link between canopy diffusivity and canopy drag. The study extends previous models of vegetative resistance by incorporating the dependence of drag coefficient on population density.
Automatic lipid extraction and thin-layer chromatography application with a programmed flow system

An eight-channel programmed flow system for automatic lipid extraction and TLC application is described. Each channel has a container for lipid extraction connected by Acidflex tubing through an AutoAnalyzer pump to a TLC applicator needle. Extraction containers are prepared from disposable Oxford sampler pipet tips by inserting a small cotton filter into their lower, narrower end, which is connected to the pump tubing. The applicator needles are supported vertically in a manifold, and their tips rest on a TLC plate placed on a hot plate. Serum is added to isopropanol in each extraction container, and proteins are completely precipitated in 2 min and retained in the extraction chambers by the cotton filters; lipid extracts are then transferred on to the heated TLC plate by intermittent pumping at a rate allowing for continuous evaporation of isopropanol under streams of warmed air or nitrogen. The lipids accumulate on the plate in eight small spots, one for each channel. Solvent is proportionally added into the extraction chambers from a common reservoir through Acidflex tubing in a second AutoAnalyzer pump. During the extraction procedure, both pump motors are automatically operated by a programmed timer with a solid-state switch. Of several different solvents tested, isopropanol is the fastest for protein precipitation and lipid extraction and does not extract substances from the Acidflex tubing which interfere with chromatographic separation.
Iodine and Other Halides

The Eh-pH diagram for iodine species is shown in Fig. 2. The thermodynamic data for iodine and other halides are given in Table 2. The halides form important anions in the terrestrial environment, and naturally occurring chlorides, fluorides, iodides, and bromides occur. Most of these are soluble in water, such as halite (NaCl) and sylvite (KC1).
Regulation of DNA Repair

DNA is inherently unstable and susceptible to modification by a broad range of environmental agents, including ultraviolet (UV) light and ionizing radiation.
Journal Writing in Health Education: An Introduction to Purposes and Methods

(1990). Journal Writing in Health Education: An Introduction to Purposes and Methods. Health Education: Vol. 21, No. 3, pp. 53-54.
Educating limited resource older adults for better choices to lower risk of food insecurity.

United States (U.S.) national and North Carolina state data on older adult food insecurity in combination with associated poor nutrition-related health outcomes point to a critical need for interventions to improve their food security. Nearly 8% of North Carolinians aged 60 and older and 11% of those aged 50–59 are food insecure, placing North Carolina in the top ten states in the U.S. for food insecurity for both age groups. Therefore, the Better Choices intervention was designed to educate limited-income older adults in ways to manage their meager resources to purchase more and healthier foods. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the Better Choices intervention in improving the knowledge, attitude, and behavior of participants concerning their food money resource management. Older adults (n = 453) with ages ranging from 59 to over 90 years participated in 8 weeks of educational programming delivered by educators in 15 participating North Carolina counties. In a cross-over program design participating counties were randomly assigned to two groups, to create a control for the food money resource management treatment. A three-points-in-time survey supported longitudinal measurement. Independent samples t-tests showed no significant differences between groups at baseline. Paired sample t-test results show the intervention was effective with statistically significant improvement of participants' knowledge regarding preparing a healthy meal on a budget, beans as a low-cost alternative to meat, and the use of unit pricing to compare products to identify the best value. Participant-developed action plans reflected planned behavior change. Study results show this group of older adults were capable of and willing to adopt new behaviors for a healthier lifestyle. While not a representative sample, the broad applicability of adult learning and planned behavior theories underpinning the program lead us to conclude that the methods and theories applied in this intervention should be of use to educators and practitioners serving limited-resource older adult populations.
Sex differences in vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular outcomes: The cardiac, endothelial function, and arterial stiffness in ESRD (CERES) study

INTRODUCTION Recent studies suggest that women with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) may have higher rates of mortality than men, but it is unknown whether sex differences in vascular function explain this disparity. The cardiac, endothelial function, and arterial stiffness in ESRD (CERES) study is an ongoing, prospective observational study designed to investigate vascular function, myocardial injury, and cardiovascular outcomes in ESRD. METHODS Among 200 CERES participants (34% women), we evaluated arterial wave reflections as augmentation index normalized to a heart rate of 75 (AIx75), arterial stiffness as pulse wave velocity, and macro- and microvascular endothelial dysfunction as flow-mediated dilation and velocity time integral (VTI). Over a median of 14 months, participants were followed for the composite outcome of cardiovascular hospitalization or all-cause death. FINDINGS Women had higher arterial wave reflection (Mean, SD AIx75 30% ± 9% for women vs. 21% ± 10% for men; P < 0.001) and worse microvascular function (VTI 55 ± 30 cm for women vs. 70 ± 27 cm for men; P = 0.007). After multivariable adjustment, female sex remained associated with a 0.5-SD higher AIx75 (95% CI [0.01, 0.9]) and 0.3-SD lower VTI (95%CI [0.1, 0.7]). Women experienced higher adjusted rates of the composite outcome (HR 2.5; 95%CI [1.1, 5.6]; P = 0.03), and further adjustment for arterial wave reflection attenuated this risk. DISCUSSION Vascular dysfunction may partly explain the association of female sex with higher cardiovascular risk and mortality in patients with ESRD. Further studies are needed to explore whether sex differences in vascular function predict long-term outcomes, and whether hormonal or inflammatory factors explain these associations.