cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of periodontal treatment on serum C-reactive protein levels: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Systemic inflammation is increasingly being recognized as a risk factor for adverse cardiovascular events. Evidence is accumulating that associates periodontal disease with a higher risk for atherosclerotic plaque formation. A positive association between circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and periodontal disease may be responsible for these observations. We undertook a systematic review and conducted a meta-analysis of the available evidence to examine the effect of periodontal treatment on systemic CRP levels and to assess the quality of the available evidence. Methods: We conducted a systematic search of the English-language literature on the effect of periodontal treatment on CRP levels, as assessed by high-sensitivity assays, at least 2 months after periodontal treatment. The search was conducted in MEDLINE between 1966 and July 2005 and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. We performed a meta-analysis using the DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model. Results: The literature search yielded 814 citations of which 10 met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis of the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) showed that the difference in serum CRP levels is not significantly different between the two arms. Similarly, results from the single-cohort studies showed that the difference on serum CRP levels was not significantly different before and after treatment. Conclusions: There is now a large body of evidence to indicate that systemic inflammation is present in patients with periodontal disease. Thus, information from RCTs and single-cohort studies does not support the hypothesis that periodontal treatment can reduce systemic CRP levels.
Posttransplant monitoring of pediatric lung transplant recipients.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article reviews current trends in pediatric lung posttransplant management, reveals pitfalls that exist, and introduces additional parameters that may have an impact on long-term survival. RECENT FINDINGS A number of parameters are monitored after transplantation to prevent or identify early complications related to lung transplantation in hope of reducing morbidity and mortality. These include routine laboratory studies, imaging, and monitoring of drug levels and lung function. Drug monitoring allows individualization of a patient's immunosuppressive therapy; however, drug levels alone may not reflect the patient's immune status. ImmuKnow is a general immune-monitoring assay that may help guide therapy. Two major complications are rejection and infection, and bronchoscopy is used to differentiate these two entities. Silent rejection may occur and increase the chance of developing bronchiolitis obliterans; therefore, many centers perform surveillance bronchoscopies. Recently, de-novo anti-histocompatibility locus antigen antibodies and gastroesophageal reflux have been associated with poor outcomes, and many centers are monitoring these entities as part of care following lung transplant. SUMMARY There has been little improvement in long-term outcomes of lung transplantation. Current monitoring methods are utilized to maintain or improve outcomes and recently additional monitoring parameters have been identified which hopefully will improve long-term outcomes.
Extirpolation of the Mythology that Porotic Hyperostosis is Caused by Iron Deficiency Secondary to Dietary Shift to Maize

Diagnosing a shift to a maize-dominant diet, on the basis of recognition of high population frequencies of porotic hyperostosis, has unfortunately entered the “collective consciousness” of anthropology—because of the mythology that iron deficiency is a common cause of that phenomenon. Skull changes in patients with all forms (both primary and secondary) of iron deficiency are actually extremely rare (0.68%!). That frequency certainly does not support iron deficiency as the explanation for the high frequency of porotic hyperostosis noted (approximating 50%) in some populations. Isotopic analysis further reveals that C4 grasses (e.g., maize) actually did not become a significant part of North American human diets until the past 1000 years, long after notation of high frequency porotic hyperostosis. This further falsifies claims of earlier maize diets (predicated on frequency of porotic hyperostosis) and negates the perception that maize-induced iron deficiency is the cause of porotic hyperostosis. The latter speculation is not only con- trary to medical evidence, but that misdirection gave false impressions of ancient populations/civilizations and compromised use of a valuable observation. That mythology must be extirpated from the “collective consciousness”. Perhaps now attention can be appropriately directed to exploration of genetic hemolytic anemia, hemoglobinopathies and parasitic infestations which are known causes of porotic hyperostosis.
Recent progress in henipavirus research: Molecular biology, genetic diversity, animal models

Nipah and Hendra virus are members of a newly identified genus of emerging paramyxoviruses, the henipaviruses. Both viruses have the ability to cause severe pulmonary infection and severe acute encephalitis. Following their discovery in the 1990s, outbreaks caused by these zoonotic paramyxoviruses have been associated with high public health and especially economic threat potential. Currently, only geographic groupings in Asia and Australia have been described for the henipaviruses. However, while few viral isolates are available and more detailed characterization is necessary, there has been recent evidence that divergent henipaviruses might be present on the African continent. This review endeavours to capture recent advances in the field of henipavirus research, with a focus on genome structure and replication mechanisms, reservoir hosts, genetic diversity, pathogenesis and animal models.
Multi‐level gender conflict analysis and organizational change

Examines a seemingly simple case of gender conflict by analysing the multi‐levelled, intra‐personal, interpersonal‐intergroup, and mass unconsciousness of gender conflict. Both process analysis and psychodynamic analysis are used to show that gender does not stand apart from other demographic diversity factors.
A study on the optimization of integral fuel burnable absorbers using deterministic methods

Abstract A deterministic fuel management study was performed to optimize Integral Fuel Burnable Absorber (IFBA) designs for Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs). Penn State's IFBA designs were compared to Westinghouse's generic IFBA designs of 64, 80, and 160 IFBA pins per assembly. It was found deterministically that the current generic Westinghouse designs of 64 and 80 IFBA may be improved upon, but the typical 160 IFBA design by Westinghouse was not sufficiently improved upon. The results indicate it is not necessary to use large numbers of IFBA pins per assembly nor is it necessary to use exceedingly high boron enrichment in the IFBA pins. This deterministic study was performed as part of a genetic algorithm optimization study which used IFBA fuel designs and CASMO-3. The Penn State IFBA pin placement designs with the IFBA loaded toward the center of the assembly and surrounding the control rod guide tubes proved to be very successful. The Penn State IFBA pin designs with 64 and 80 IFBA pins showed significant improvement over the generic vendor designs, which have IFBA placed towards the assembly periphery. The Penn State 64 and 80 IFBA designs reduced the maximum peak pin NP by as much as 5% over the vendor's IFBA configurations.
PPARgamma activation by thiazolidinediones (TZDs) may modulate breast carcinoma outcome: the importance of interplay with TGFbeta signalling.

The thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are a class of synthetic antidiabetic drugs exerting its action primarily upon acti-vation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ). Given the widespread incidence of diabetes type II and lifelong exposure of these patients to TZDs, there is a possibility that chronic treatment with TZD modifies clinical phenotypes of other common human diseases, for example breast carcinoma. There is evidence that TZDs act as breast carcinoma suppression agents, at least in the in vitro and animal models. Stimulation of the PPARγ by TZDs interferes with oestrogen receptor signalling, STAT5B and NF-κB signalling cascades. On the other hand, TZDs repress TGFβ signalling, a well-known suppressor of the initial stages of breast carcinoma development. Another layer of complexity arises at the later stages of tumour development, when TGFβ acts as a tumour promoter: its overexpression is associated with poor prognosis, higher degree of tumour vascularization and metastasis. Longitudinal studies of breast carcinoma development in chronic TZD users are needed. In this review, we dissect possible interplays between chronic exposure of breast tis-sue to TZDs and TGFβ signalling and predict influence of TZD exposure on cancer-related clinical outcome.
Temperature Distribution of a Wave Journal Bearing: Comparison With Test Data

An advanced three-dimensional model is developed to compute the temperature distribution in a wave journal bearing. The analysis takes into account the heat transfer between the film and both the shaft and the bush. The theoretical results are validated by comparison with experimental data.
EUVL defect printability at the 32-nm node

The printability of both amplitude and phase defects has been investigated in proximity to absorber lines with widths corresponding to the 45 nm and 32 nm nodes. The single surface approximation was used to simulate defects within the multilayer coating. The printability of Gaussian phase defects was simulated versus width and height and location with respect to the absorber line. For narrow defects the worst location was found to be next to the absorber line, while wide defects had the greatest effect when centered under the absorber. A uniform flare was found to have little effect on the critical defect size. The results of these simulations are aimed at defining the critical defects for EUVL masks designed for the 32 nm node.
A rapid method for the isolation and identification of Rhizobium from root nodules

Summary We developed a rapid, inexpensive method for isolating and identifying Rhizobium leguminosarum by. phaseoli strains from bean root nodules. The method can be used for other small or medium-sized nodules such as those of clover, alfalfa and peas. With this method, one person can process 115 nodules/h. Using a simple apparatus made of plexiglass and machine bolts, we simultaneously crushed 24 surface-sterilized nodules and then transferred the crushed nodule suspension to multiple plates containing various antibiotics or a dye. This versatile and broadly applicable method complements previously described techniques, which are effective only for large root nodules such as those of soybean.
Further studies of the reactions involving ethyne and M2(OBut)6, where M Mo and W. Polyacetylene formation versus formation of ethyne adducts and CC coupled products

Abstract M2(OBut)6 compounds in hydrocarbon solvents react with ethyne to give a mixture of cis- and trans-polyacetylene and ethyne- and μ-C4H4 adducts of M2(OBut)6 by competing pathways. The degree of ethyne polymerization is shown to decrease with increasing concentration of M2(OBut)6, to increase with increasing volumes of solvent for constant concentration and to be greater for M  Mo than for M  W. The kinetically labile complex M02(OBUt)6(μ-C2H2), originally reported by Strutz and Schrock [Organometallics 1984, 4, 1600], has been trapped by the addition of pyridine and 4-methylpyridine at -20°C and the structure of the latter compound determined by a single crystal X-ray study. There is a pseudo-tetrahedral Mo2C2 core, MoMo = 2.645(1) A, CC = 1.39(1) A and MoC = 2.092(7) A (ave.), supported by a single OR bridge. Each metal atom has a pseudo-trigonal bipyramidal geometry. In the presence of an excess of ethyne, Mo2(OBut)6 yields a mixture of compounds, two of which are proposed to be isomers of formula Mo2(OBut)6(μh-C4H4). Addition of CO to a hydrocarbon solution of the latter gives Mo2(OBut)6(μ-C4H4)(CO) which is shown to be structurally related to its tungsten analogue by a single crystal X-ray determination. [ν(CO) = 1908 (Mo= Mo) and 1883 cm−1 (M  W).] The isolated compounds show no activity towards ethyne polymerization which is proposed to occur by way of a carbene/alkylidene mechanism. Consistent with this proposal is the finding that Mo2(OBut)6, which is unreactive towards norbornene, can be activated towards norbornene polymerization by the addition of ethyne (5 equiv.).
l-Alanine uptake in brush border membrane vesicles from the gill of a marine bivalve

Brush border membrane vesicles were prepared from mussel gills using differential and sucrose density gradient centrifugation. These vesicles contained both the maximal Na+-dependent alanine transport activity found in the gradient and the maximal activities of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase and alkaline phosphatase. Electron micrographs showed closed vesicles of approximately 0.1–0.5 μm diameter. Transport experiments using these vesicles demonstrated a transient 18-fold overshoot in intravesicular alanine concentration in the presence of an inwardly directed Na+ gradient, but not under Na+ equilibrium conditions. A reduced overshoot (10-fold) was seen with an inwardly directed K+ gradient. Further studies revealed a broad cation selectivity, with preference for Na+, which was characteristic of alanine transport but not glucose transport in these membranes. The apparent amino acid specificity of the uptake pathway(s) was similar to that of intact gills and supported the idea of at least four separate pathways for amino acid transport in mussel gill brush border membranes. The apparent Michaelis constant for alanine uptake was approximately 7μm, consistent with values forKt determined with intact tissue.
Intercomparison of two techniques for the preparation of gaseous sulfur calibration standards in the low to sub-ppb range

Calibration gas standards for H2S, CH3SH, CS2 and SO2, independently prepared by two separate research groups from the University of Idaho Department of Chemistry and the NOAA Aeronomy Laboratory, were directly intercompared using a gas chromatographic-flame photometric measurement procedure for all four species and a fluorimetric measurement procedure for H2S. The NOAA gas standard system used gravimetrically-calibrated ‘low loss’ permeation tubes in conjunction with a three-stage dynamic dilution system. The University of Idaho (UI) system used single-stage dilution of the effluent from ‘ultra-low loss’ permeation tubes, which were calibrated by a metal foil collection/flash desorption/flame photometric detection procedure using aqueous sulfate standards. Comparative measurements between UI and NOAA gas standards in the 1–2 ppbv range showed differences no greater than 12 % for CS2, SO2 and CH3SH, and 21 % for H2S.
A distributed Lagrange multiplier/fictitious domain method for viscoelastic particulate flows

Abstract A distributed Lagrange multiplier/fictitious domain method (DLM) is developed for simulating the motion of rigid particles suspended in the Oldroyd-B fluid. This method is a generalization of the one described in [R. Glowinski, T.W. Pan, T.I. Hesla, D.D. Joseph, Int. J. Multiphase Flows 25 (1998) 755–794] where the motion of particles suspended in a Newtonian fluid was simulated. In our implementation of the DLM method, the fluid–particle system is treated implicitly using a combined weak formulation in which the forces and moments between the particles and fluid cancel. The governing equations for the Oldroyd-B liquid are solved everywhere, including inside the particles. The flow inside the particles is forced to be a rigid body motion by a distribution of Lagrange multipliers. We use the Marchuk–Yanenko operator-splitting technique to decouple the difficulties associated with the incompressibility constraint, nonlinear convection and viscoelastic terms. The constitutive equation is solved using a scheme that guarantees the positive definiteness of the configuration tensor, while the convection term in the constitutive equation is discretized using a third-order upwinding scheme. The nonlinear convection problem is solved using a least square conjugate gradient algorithm, and the Stokes-like problem is solved using a conjugate gradient algorithm. The code is verified performing a convergence study to show that the results are independent of the mesh and time step sizes. Our simulations show that, when particles are dropped in a channel, and the viscoelastic Mach number (M) is less than 1 and the elasticity number (E) is greater than 1, the particles chain along the flow direction; this agrees with the results presented in [P.Y. Huang, H.H. Hu, D.D. Joseph, J. Fluid Mech. 362 (1998) 297–325]. In our simulations of the fluidization of 102 particles in a two-dimensional bed, we find that the particles near the channel walls form chains that are parallel to the walls, but the distribution of particles away from the walls is relatively random.
Simultaneous Determination of Trace Wear Metals in Used Lubricating Oils by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Using a Silicon-Target Vidicon Detector

A multichannel atomic absorption spectrometer with a silicon-target vidicon detector was used for the simultaneous determination of trace metals in aqueous solution and in used lubricating oils. In most cases sensitivities were similar to those obtained by conventional single channel atomic absorption. Iron, magnesium, copper, and silver were simultaneously determined in lubricating oils, and, although precision was somewhat poorer than that normally attained by atomic absorption, it was adequate for this application. Good correlation was obtained between the vidicon method and a single channel method using a commercial atomic absorption spectrometer.
Transformational change using stratified systems theory

It is argued that leaders and other change agents will be able to transform organizations and the members of organizations only if they possess compelling explanatory frameworks for viewing organizational behavior, structure and dynamics. To illustrate this point, the stratified systems theory of Elliott Jaques is presented in the context of an organizational intervention. The “vision” promoted by stratified systems theory enabled an outside consultant to transform the leadership of an ailing social services agency and was useful in explaining the inability of the organization's administrator and board of directors to act transformationally during a period of rapid change
Vibration of flexible rotating disks

Rotating disks are key components of many rotating machines, such as computer hard disk drives, circular saws, and disk brakes for automobiles and aircraft landing gears. Mathematical models of these systems consist of four elements: disks, spindles, bearings, and sliders. Depending on the application, the disks, spindles, and bearings can be modeled as rigid or flexible. The sliders are often modeled as a stationary spring-mass-dashpot system in contact with the rotating disks. This paper reviews recent vibration research on single and multiple flexible rotating disks interacting with spindles, bearings, and sliders. Systems with rigid rotating disks are not included in this review.
A review of vegetation—atmosphere interactions and their influences on mesoscale phenomena

Vegetation strongly influences exchanges of energy and moisture between land and atmosphere through (1) the vegetation's response to incoming radiation and its emission of longwave radiation (2) the vegetation's physical presence, and (3) the plant's transpiration. These processes affect the diurnal temperature range, processes in the atmospheric boundary layer, cloud cover, rainfall, differential heating, and atmospheric circulations. This paper overviews how vegetation interacts with surface energy and moisture budgets and reviews both observational and modelling studies that examine how vegetation affects weather and climate on the mesoscale (ie, phenomena 10s to 100s of kilometres in horizontal size).
Scale-up of the enantioselective reaction for the enzymatic resolution of (R,S)-ibuprofen

The reaction for the resolution of (R,S)-ibuprofen was scaled-up to yield gram quantities of (S)-ibuprofen. This was accomplished through two enantioselective reactions each catalysed by Novozym 435. In the first reaction, starting from 300 g of racemic ibuprofen, 88.9 g of enantioenriched (S)-ibuprofen with an enantiomeric excess of the order of 85% were produced. In the subsequent reaction, 75 g of the 85 % e.e. material were utilized to produce 38.4 g of (S)-ibuprofen with an enantiomeric excess of 97.5 %.
Investigation of the dermal sensitization potential of various essential oils in the local lymph node assay.

Essential oils are commonly used fragrance ingredients. The oils themselves are complex mixtures, which may contain naturally occurring contact sensitizers. The local lymph node assay was used to evaluate the dermal sensitization potential of basil, citronella, clove leaf, geranium, litsea cubeba, lemongrass, and palmarosa oils. Three of the major components--citral, eugenol, and geraniol--were included to investigate any difference in sensitization potential arising from their exposure in a mixture. Each fragrance material was tested at five concentration ranging from 2.5% to 50% w/v in 1:3 ethanol:diethyl phthalate. The stimulation index (SI) values were calculated for each dose level, an SI > or = 3 was considered a positive response. The estimated concentration (EC3) required to elicit a positive was calculated and taken as a measure of relative potency. The EC3 values and potency classification for basil, clove leaf, litsea cubeba, lemongrass and palmarosa oils were calculated to be or = moderate), 7.1% (weak), 8.4% (weak), 6.5% (weak) and 9.6% (weak), respectively. Citronella and geranium oils were negative. The individual components citral, eugenol and geraniol resulted in EC3 values of 6.3%, 5.4% and 11.4%, respectively. In general, the potency of each essential oil did not differ significantly from that observed for its main individual component.
Ecological perspectives on the sequenced genome collection

Our complete genome collection is one of our most valuable biological resources. A key challenge for the future is the interpretation of these genomes from an ecological perspective. In this review, we discuss current work at this increasingly important interface. In particular, we review ongoing work aimed at developing high quality data sets that combine ecological, environmental, evolutionary and genomic information. Such data will help to identify biases in the sequence collection and facilitate future discoveries about the nature of ecological adaptation at the genome level. These efforts will be greatly enhanced by the contributions of ecologists.
Finite groups admitting the extensions of the automorphisms of a maximal elementary abelian 2-subgroup

1. INTRODUCTION AND STATEMENT OF THE THEOREM In [lo], Higman described the structure of a finite p-group admitting an automorphism which cyclically permutes the subgroups of order p. Such a group is either a direct sum of cyclic groups of the same order, a generalized quaternion group, or a Suzuki 2-group (defined in [lo]). Several authors have considered the structure of a finite p-group whose automorphism group acts transitively on the elements of order p of the group. (See [S] and the references cited in it.) Gaschiitz and Yen [S] have shown that if G is a group of odd order and, if for each prime divisor p of the order of G, the automorphism group of G acts transitively on the elements of G of order p, then G is a cyclic extension of a nilpotent Hall subgroup. Here, we consider a variation of the situations mentioned above. We say that a finite group G has the (extension) property B(p) for the prime p if the automorphisms of some elementary abelian p-subgroup E of G of the largest possible order can be obtained as the restrictions to E of the automorphisms of G. Our object here is to prove the following: THEOREM. Let G be a finite group possessing the property g(2), and let (G#)S E W,(G). (A) If O,(G) # (1) and O(G) = (1 ), then one of
Blood on the Gym Floor: Application of Universal Precautions

(2008). Blood on the Gym Floor: Application of Universal Precautions. Strategies: Vol. 21, No. 3, pp. 15-17.
Total Aortic Arch Replacement for the Treatment of Kommerell's Diverticulum in a Jehovah's Witness

The treatment of Kommerell's diverticulum continues to evolve given advances in aortic surgery, cardiopulmonary bypass management, and endovascular techniques. This case report details the repair of a diverticulum of Kommerell in a Jehovah's witness with a right-sided aortic arch and reviews the surgical literature. (J Card Surg 2010;25:333-335)
Bifurcation formulae derived from center manifold theory

Abstract Applicable formulae for the parameters μ 2 , β 2 , τ 2 , μ 4 , β 4 and τ 4 of N -dimensional Hopf bifurcation theory are presented. The center manifold theorem is used to reduce the system from N dimensions to 2 dimensions. Approximate solution of the system in Poincare normal form provides the formulae. The formulae are explicit so that the parameters may be computed directly from partial derivatives of the system in real canonical form. The formula for μ 2 is shown to be identical to that of I. D. Hsu and N. D. Kazarinoff. Formulae for the parameters μ 1 , μ 2 , μ 3 , τ 1 , τ 2 , τ 3 , β 2 , β 3 and β 4 in the “tangency” case Re λ 1 ′( v c ) = 0, Re λ 1 ′'( v c ) ≠ 0 are also presented.
The advantages of Sun tracking for planar silicon solar cells

Experimental results comparing the power output of a Sun tracking solar cell with that of a stationary solar cell indicates that the tracking cell will produce over 30% more electrical energy in the course of a relatively clear day than will the stationary cell. A mathematical treatment of the problem agrees remarkably well with the experimental results predicting only slightly greater gain for the tracking cell than found experimentally. This difference can be explained by the lack of perfectly clear days during experimental testing. In fact, when a great deal of haziness or cloud cover occurs the output gain of the tracking cell over the stationary cell rapidly disappears.
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in the newborn

Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is exceedingly rare in newborns as well as patients over 6 months of age. These cases likely represent outliers from the normal distribution of its clinical presentation. This is a report of pyloric stenosis in a newborn. A review of the literature is included.
Computation of orthonormal factors for fundamental solution matrices

In this work, we introduce and analyze two new techniques for obtaining the Q factor in the QR factorization of some (or all) columns of a fundamental solution matrix Y of a linear differential system. These techniques are based on elementary Householder and Givens transformations. We implement and compare these new techniques with existing approaches on some examples.
Preoperative weight loss in bariatric surgery.

To the Editor: We read with interest the editorial by Drs. Tarnoff, Kaplan, and Shikora [1] summarizing the current literature on the topic of preoperative weight loss in bariatric surgery. As noted in the piece, there is only one published prospective randomized trial on this topic [2]. Results suggest that patients guided to lose 10% of their initial body weight prior to surgery had a shorter operative time and greater weight loss 3 months after gastric bypass as compared to a group who underwent surgery at their presenting weight. Findings appear promising, but the sample size is relatively small and longer-term outcomes are not known. In his editorial comment accompanying the publication of this study, Dr. Shikora noted, “Hopefully, this report will stimulate others to study this concept on a larger scale and ultimately put the controversy to rest as to whether preoperative weight loss is worth the effort.” [3] Although the potential benefits of preoperative weight loss are compelling, we agree that more research is needed. Indeed, we are currently conducting a randomized controlled trial (R01DK077102) to evaluate the benefits of an empirically supported 6-month behavioral weight management program relative to usual preoperative care. We anticipate that preoperative weight loss will lead to fewer surgical complications and may enhance postoperative weight loss as found by Alami and colleagues [2]. Moreover, we hypothesize that a comprehensive program including education about surgery and training in behavioral self-management will confer additional benefits, such as better compliance and lower overall health care utilization after operation. Dr. Shikora concludes, “...is it now time to suggest that preoperative weight loss be a component of the preoperative preparation process?” [1] Perhaps, but many questions remain: Should patients be encouraged or required to lose weight? How much weight? With what dietary intervention? Over what period of time? Do the potential benefits of preparative weight loss vary depending on initial BMI, patient demographics, surgical technique, or other factors? We are hopeful that our study will directly inform the development of best practices for preoperative care and promote research designed to optimize the outcomes of bariatric surgery.
Water-soluble copolymers: 22. Copolymers of acrylamide with 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanedimethylammonium chloride: Aqueous solution properties of a polycation

Abstract The viscometric, turbidimetric and potentiometric properties of copolymers of acrylamide (AM) with 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanedimethylammonium chloride (AMPDAC) were studied in aqueous solutions. The AMPDAC polymers exhibit poor salt tolerance and large, negative viscosity/temperature coefficients. Furthermore, the polymers were found to be sensitive to changes in pH. The AMPDAC polymers undergo phase separation in the presence of dianions as a function of temperature and AMPDAC composition.
Can we test geoengineering

Solar radiation management (SRM), a form of geoengineering, might be used to offset some fraction of the anthropogenic radiative forcing of climate as a means to reduce climate change, but the risks and effectiveness of SRM are uncertain. We examine the possibility of testing SRM through sub-scale deployment as a means to test models of climate response to SRM and explore risks prior to full-scale implementation. Contrary to some claims, this could provide meaningful tests of the climate's response to SRM within a decade. We use idealized simulations with the HadCM3L general circulation model (GCM) to estimate the response to SRM and signal-to-noise ratio for global-scale SRM forcing tests, and quantify the trade-offs between duration and intensity of the test and it's ability to make quantitative measurements of the climate's response to SRM forcing. The response at long time-scales would need to be extrapolated from results measured by a short-term test; this can help reduce the uncertainty associated with relatively rapid climate feedbacks, but uncertainties that only manifest at long time-scales can never be resolved by such a test. With this important caveat, the transient climate response may be bounded with 90% confidence to be no more than 1.5 °C higher than it's estimated value, in a single decade test that used roughly 1/10th the radiative forcing perturbation of a CO2-doubling. However, tests could require several decades or longer to obtain accurate response estimates, particularly to understand the response of regional hydrological fields which are critical uncertainties. Some fields, like precipitation over land, have as large a response to short period forcing as to slowly-varying changes. This implies that the ratio of the hydrological to the temperature response that results from a sustained SRM deployment will differ from that of either a short-duration test or that which has been observed to result from large volcanic eruptions.
Provide safe passage for patients.

Abstract:Learn what measures to take to successfully transport a patient from the ICU to another department in the hospital.
The effect of satellite entry on cable television prices and product quality

How has the entry of satellite television affected the pricing and product quality of incumbent cable firms' programming packages? I estimate a model in which firms compete over both price and product quality (as determined by what channels are offered). Satellite entry typically causes cable firms to raise quality and lower price. However, in some markets, cable optimally responds by raising both price and quality or by lowering both price and quality. A counterfactual scenario that eliminates quality competition results in, on average, softer price competition and lower aggregate consumer surplus, but greater surplus for consumers with weaker preferences for quality.
Omnipotence and necessary moral perfection are compatible: a reply to Morriston

In this paper, which is a reply to Wes Morriston's 'Omnipotence and necessary moral perfection: are they compatible?', I argue that, contrary to what Morriston suggests, a classical theist need not admit that omnipotence and necessary moral perfection are incompatible. Indeed, I shall argue that a classical theist can show that an omnipotent being is of necessity morally perfect.
Radiant heating of an absorbing, isotropically scattering and emitting slab

Abstract We obtain a numerical solution for the transient temperature distribution in a semi-transparent slab which absorbs, scatters and emits radiant energy. A slab exposed on one side to a convective environment and diffuse radiant heating is considered. The opposite side abuts an insulator whose radiative properties are accounted for in the solution. The equation of radiative transfer is solved by using a polynomial approximation in order to determine the effective source term in the conduction equation for a broad range of typical values of the important parameters. The results are compared to a solution which neglects re-radiation from the slab showing its importance at elevated temperatures. The results show that in general the effect of re-radiation is to reduce the temperature and gradients in the slab.
Comparison of bulk-tank standard plate count and somatic cell count for Wisconsin dairy farms in three size categories

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate possible claims by advocates of small-scale dairy farming that milk from smaller Wisconsin farms is of higher quality than milk from larger Wisconsin farms. Reported bulk tank standard plate count (SPC) and somatic cell count (SCC) test results for Wisconsin dairy farms were obtained for February to December, 2008. Farms were sorted into 3 size categories using available size-tracking criteria: small (≤118 cows; 12,866 farms), large (119–713 cattle; 1,565 farms), and confined animal feeding operations (≥714 cattle; 160 farms). Group means were calculated (group=farm size category) for the farms' minimum, median, mean, 90th percentile, and maximum SPC and SCC. Statistical analysis showed that group means for median, mean, 90th percentile, and maximum SPC and SCC were almost always significantly higher for the small farm category than for the large farm and confined animal feeding operations farm categories. With SPC and SCC as quality criteria and the 3 farm size categories of ≤118, 119 to 713, and ≥714 cattle, the claim of Wisconsin smaller farms producing higher quality milk than Wisconsin larger farms cannot be supported.
Changing food and medical beliefs and practices in a Guatemalan community

This study examines the relationship between food and illness as part of the interaction between indigenous and Western medicine in a highland Quiche‐speaking community in Guatemala. It is suggested that certain concepts such as alimento (nutritious food) and fresco (fresh or cool) are being used to incorporate modern nutritional and medicinal information into specific health contexts. These concepts involve different ideas of causation and treatment that are neither wholly traditional nor modern, yet have elements of both. The mechanism of syncretism is used to understand the dynamics involved in such changes that occur as a result of this interaction.
A simple catheter for intermittent intravenous anaesthesia in animal surgery.

RECENT allograft experiments on rabbits in our laboratories prompted the development of a simple and safe anaesthetic technique which could be administered by the surgeon to two animals simultaneously. Inhalation techniques require the almost constant attention of another assistant; parenteral barbiturate administration requires repeated and increasingly difficult intravenous injections for maintenance. The following intravenous catheter and continuous technique were therefore devised, based on the standard technique of pentothal induction of anaesthesia in human surgery.
THE IMPACT OF TAX POLICY ON INVESTMENT BEHAVIOR IN THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY, 1951‐65

The purpose of this study was to estimate the impact of changes in Federal tax policy on investment behavior in the chemicals and allied products industry and to examine the possibility of a differential impact of changes in tax policy on investment behavior in manufacturing industries. The impact of changes in tax policy on investment behavior in the chemical and allied products industry was estimated and compared with the impact of tax policy on investment behavior in total manufacturing found in earlier studies. The model used to estimate the impact of changes in tax policy on investment behavior in the chemicals and allied products industry was the neo-classical model of capital accumulation as formulated initially by Dale Jorgenson. The conclusions reached were that changes in tax policy have had a measurable impact on investment behavior in the chemical and allied products industry which was greater as a percentage of gross investment than that found on total manufacturing in earlier studies.
Stability of Oleate Concentration in Soybean Lines Containing the High-Oleate Transgene DP-305423-1

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] lines with the transgene DP-305423-1 produce oil with a high oleate concentration that is desirable for oxidative stability. It is important for commercial production to understand the oleate concentration that can be expected when cultivars with the transgene are grown over a range of environmental conditions. The objective of our study was to evaluate the environmental stability of oleate concentration for lines with the transgene in comparison to that of lines without the transgene. Three high-oleate, normal-linolenate (HONL); six high-oleate, low-linolenate (HOLL); three mid-oleate, low-linolenate (MOLL); three normal-oleate, low-linolenate (NOLL); and three normal-oleate, normal-linolenate (NONL) lines were evaluated across 18 environments during 2010 and 2011. The mean oleate concentration of all the lines ranged from 529 to 643 g kg⁻¹ among the environments. The mean oleate concentration across environments was 842 g kg⁻¹ for HONL, 826 g kg⁻¹ for HOLL, 536 g kg⁻¹ for MOLL, 262 g kg⁻¹ for NOLL, and 238 g kg⁻¹ for NONL lines. The range in oleate concentrations among environments averaged 73 g kg⁻¹ for HONL, 128 g kg⁻¹ for HONL, 148 g kg⁻¹ for MOLL, 153 g kg⁻¹ for NOLL, and 108 g kg⁻¹ for NONL lines. The results indicated that the consistency in oleate concentrations across a range of production environments for cultivars with the DP-305423-1 transgene would be equal or superior to cultivars without the transgene.
Hydroxylapatite ossicular replacement prostheses: Results in 157 consecutive cases

The use of hydroxylapatite for ossicular chain reconstruction is increasing. In this study, hearing results and extrusion rate for 157 consecutive patients receiving hydroxylapatite prostheses were evaluated. Results were compared to those of a control group of patients who had received either homograft bone or Plasti-Pore prostheses. Four (2.6%) cases of extrusion have occurred. Hearing success was defined as a postoperative puretone average air-bone gap of < or = 15 dB for incus prostheses and partial ossicular replacement prostheses (PORPs) or < or = 25 dB for incus-stapes prostheses and total ossicular reconstruction prostheses (TORPs). Overall success rate in the hydroxylapatite group was 51.4% for the 140 patients with postoperative data (mean follow-up, 11.5 months) and 46.7% for 90 patients who were followed for more than 6 months (mean follow-up, 16 months). PORP results were significantly poorer than those of the other prostheses. The success rate for the control group was 58.6% for 58 patients. The difference between hydroxylapatite and control group success rates appears to be due to the poorer results of the hydroxylapatite PORP.
Comparison of AIRS and IASI co-located radiances for cold scenes

Calibration of infrared radiometers at cold scene temperatures is very difficult. But high accuracy even at cold temperatures is critical for establishing a climate-quality data record. This paper describes the comparison of radiances from two sensors-the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI) and the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) for cold scenes. We compare thirty-two months of IASI and AIRS data for Dome Concordia, which is on a high plateau in Antarctica and thus provides a source of nearly uniform dry scenes with a temperature range from about 190 K to about 250 K. Located on this plateau is a research station, an operational automated weather station that provides ground truth. The AIRS L1B and IASI L1C radiometric calibrations agree for large spatial and temporal averages of data taken over 32 months at Dome Concordia at the 200 mK level, in spite of large differences in the instrument implementations. However, both AIRS L1B and IASI L1C data show scene-temperature-dependent differences as large as 1K, which appear to be calibration artifacts that are only partially understood. In the case of AIRS L1B spectra, some of the effects will be corrected in the forthcoming release of the L1C data. In addition, the IASI quality flag identifies a disproportionate number of spectra in the 240-250 K brightness temperature range as "low quality". Uncorrected calibration artifacts and quality flag related issues are likely to be of significance for climate applications, where 100 mK absolute accuracy is required. Both effects create sampling biases, which cannot be decreased by massive data averaging. The effects are small compared to the absolute radiometric calibration accuracy requirements of AIRS or IASI, but both will need to be accounted for in the radiometric accuracy analysis of future instruments specifically designed for climate research.
Rotational cooling of rigid rotors desorbed from flat surfaces

Abstract A simple model is presented for predicting the final rotational state distribution of an initially physisorbed rigid rotor. Based on the assumptions that the adsorbed rotor is freely rotating and that desorption occurs by a weak coupling between the rotational and desorbing degrees of freedom, a significant rotational “cooling” is predicted.
Hepatocellular progenitor cell tumor of the gallbladder: a case report and review of the literature.

A 75-year-old man presented to his physician with weakness, anorexia, and constant right upper quadrant pain. He underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which was converted to an open cholecystectomy due to presumed adhesions. Direct examination of the liver was negative for masses or lesions. A CT scan was negative for masses or nodules. The gallbladder was 8.5 × 2.5 cm2, with a diffusely thick wall measuring 2.5 cm. Microscopic examination showed a monomorphic tumor consisting of cells with increased nuclear:cytoplasmic ratio and occasional nucleoli, infiltrating the entire gallbladder uniformly. The tumor cells that reacted to antibodies directed against HepPar1, CAM 5.2, CK19 and scattered cells were immunoreactive for CD117, CD34, and CD56. This immunohistochemical profile suggested a ‘hepatocellular progenitor cell tumor of the gall bladder’. This report is, to our knowledge, the first such case of a tumor of this cell type reported in the gallbladder. In addition, we present a review of the literature.
Effect of welding sequence on laser-welding-induced alignment distortion in butterfly laser diode module packages

In fiber-optic component attachment using laser welding, the welding-induced-alignment-distortion (WIAD) is an issue significantly affecting the packaging yield. Our previous investigation has shown that an elimination or minimization of WIAD is possible if the relevant laser welding process parameters such as welding sequence can be optimized. In this work, a more realistic physics based laser welding model is introduced and incorporated into our finite element analysis model by a few user subroutines, the effect of welding sequence on WIAD in a butterfly laser diode module package is evaluated. The result verifies the conclusion that the effect of laser welding sequence on WIAD for butterfly laser diode packages is significant and WIAD control can be achieved as appropriate welding sequence is employed.
Biosynthesis of stearic acid in rat testis

Abstract Stearic acid, isolated from rats injected intratesticularly with [1-14C]acetate and killed 30 min later, was chemically degraded to determine its mode of biosynthesis. The ratio of specific activity of carboxyl carbon to average carbon in the chain indicated that it was formed, at least partly, by chain elongation. In contrast, results of degradation of myristic and palmitic acids in the same experiment established their mode of synthesis to be totally by the de novo pathway. Results of degradation of stearic acid isolated from testis incubated in vitro with [1-14C]acetate were similar to those obtained in vivo.
The effect of a high cholesterol diet on 20,25-diazacholesterol-induced myotonia.

Abstract Myotonia induced by 20,25-diazacholesterol may be related to the accumulation of desmosterol which results when 20,25-diazacholesterol inhibits Δ 24 reductase; the increased (Na + + K + )-ATPase observed in this type of myotonia may also be involved. Rats were fed a high cholesterol diet (which inhibited cholesterol and hence desmosterol biosynthesis) and were dosed daily with 20,25-diazacholesterol or water. Corresponding groups were fed a normal diet and dosed with 20,25-diazacholesterol or water. Electromyography, plasma and muscle sterols, and erythrocyte membrane ATPase were measured serially for each group. Drug-treated rats on the normal diet became myotonic within 3 weeks; their plasma and muscle desmosterol were 84 and 69% of the total sterols, respectively. Their (Na + + K + )-ATPase was not significantly increased until 8 weeks of treatment. In contrast, drug-treated rats on the high cholesterol diet never became myotonic; the plasma and muscle desmosterol never exceeded 15%, and the (Na + + K + )-ATPase never exceeded the control level. Changing the high cholesterol diet to normal after 100 days resulted in myotonia within 10 days in the drug-treated rats; while their plasma and muscle desmosterol increased rapidly, no increased ATPase was seen. Reinstituting the high cholesterol diet reversed these sterol changes and abolished myotonia in 2 weeks. We conclude that 20,25-diazacholesterol-induced myotonia can be prevented or reversed by a high cholesterol diet, that the time course of desmosterol accumulation is similar and may be related to the appearance and degree of myotonia, and that the increased (Na + + K + )-ATPase is probably a secondary effect.
Medicaid versus the usufruct: a look at the conflicts between asset determination under Medicaid and Louisiana property law.

Suppose that you are an elderly person, from Louisiana, who has reached a point in life when you realize that it is time to start making arrangements for the last few years of your life. Now, furth...