cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cartilage T1ρ and T2 Relaxation Times in Patients With Mild-to-Moderate Radiographic Hip Osteoarthritis.

Author(s): Wyatt, Cory; Kumar, Deepak; Subburaj, Karupppasamy; Lee, Sonia; Nardo, Lorenzo; Narayanan, Divya; Lansdown, Drew; Vail, Thomas; Link, Thomas M; Souza, Richard B; Majumdar, Sharmila | Abstract: ObjectiveTo analyze region-specific T1ρ and T2 relaxation times of the hip joint cartilage in relation to presence or absence of radiographic hip osteoarthritis (OA) and presence or absence of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-detected cartilage defects.MethodsWeight-bearing radiographs and 3T MRI studies of the hip were obtained from 84 volunteers. Based on Kellgren/Lawrence (K/L) scoring of the radiographs, 54 subjects were classified as healthy controls (K/L grade ≤1) and 30 were classified as having mild or moderate radiographic hip OA (K/L grades 2 or 3, respectively). Two-dimensional fat-suppressed fast spin-echo MRI sequences were used for semiquantitative clinical scoring of cartilage defects, and a T1ρ/T2 sequence was used to quantitatively assess the cartilage matrix. The femoral and acetabular cartilage was then segmented into 8 regions and the mean T1ρ/T2 values were calculated. Differences in T1ρ and T2 relaxation times were compared between subjects with and those without radiographic hip OA, and those with and those without femoral or acetabular cartilage defects.ResultsHigher T1ρ and T2 relaxation times in the anterior superior and central regions of the acetabular cartilage were seen in individuals with radiographic hip OA and those with acetabular cartilage defects compared to their respective controls (P l 0.05). In the femoral cartilage, the differences in T1ρ and T2 were not significant for any of the comparisons. Significant differences in the T1ρ and T2 values (each P l 0.05) were found in more subregions of the cartilage and across the whole cartilage when subjects were stratified based on the presence of MRI-detected cartilage defects than when they were stratified based on the presence of radiographic hip OA.ConclusionT1ρ and T2 relaxation parameters are sensitive to the presence of cartilage degeneration. Both parameters may therefore support MRI evidence of cartilage defects of the hip.
The Digital Reproduction Right

A great amount of intellectual energy has been spent in recent years on attempts to remodel exemptions to exclusive rights, and as specifically discussed in this chapter, exceptions to the reproduction right, in efforts to prevent overprotection and preserve the so-called delicate copyright balance. The analysis in this chapter and the limited force of its own proposal concerning the question of fixation lead to the conclusion that an exclusive right tailored around the concept of fixation of message signals cannot continue to be one of the most basic building blocks of copyright law.It shall be posited that and explained why the reproduction right belongs to past chapters in copyright law’s evolution; it has grown evidently unsuitable to lead the copyright system into the digital future. This is because the notion of fixation is structurally inimical to contemporary modes and methods of providing and gaining access to digital information. Fixation, in other words, is the “yesterday” of copyright law. Modern-day legislatures will sooner or later have to tackle the problem of finding alternative concepts around which the apparatus of exclusivity is tailored.
Enhanced neutron imaging detector using optical processing

Existing neutron imaging detectors have limited count rates due to inherent property and electronic limitations. The popular multiwire proportional counter is qualified by gas recombination to a count rate of less than 105 n/s over the entire array and the neutron Anger camera, even though improved with new fiber optic encoding methods, can only achieve 106 cps over a limited array. We present a preliminary design for a new type of neutron imaging detector with a resolution of 2 - 5 mm and a count rate capability of 106 cps per pixel element. We propose to combine optical and electronic processing to economically increase the throughput of advanced detector systems while simplifying computing requirements. By placing a scintillator screen ahead of an optical image processor followed by a detector array, a high throughput imaging detector may be constructed.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Stretched-pulse and solitonic operation of an all-fiber thulium/holmium-doped fiber laser

Stretched-pulse operation of a mode-locked thulium/holmium-doped fiber laser has been demonstrated using a high numerical aperture (NA) fiber inside the laser cavity for intracavity dispersion compensation. The high NA fiber exhibits normal group-velocity dispersion allowing for the net-cavity dispersion to be positive. We experimentally investigate the laser dynamics as a function of the net-cavity dispersion, observing the transition from stretched-pulse to solitonic operation as the length of high NA fiber was reduced. In the stretched-pulse regime the laser produced pulses with a bandwidth of 30 nm and duration of 450 fs. Methods for compensating the third-order dispersion using high NA fibers are proposed.
Lens proteins block the copper-mediated formation of reactive oxygen species during glycation reactions in vitro.

The formation of advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) from glucose in vitro requires both oxygen and a transition metal ion, usually copper. These elements combine to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) which degrade glucose to AGE-forming compounds. We measured the ability of Cu(2+) to accelerate ROS formation, and the effect of added lens proteins on these reactions. Increasing levels of Cu(2+) accelerated the formation of superoxide anion with glucose and fructosyl-lysine, but the addition of 2.0 mg/ml calf lens proteins completely blocked superoxide formation up to 100 μM of added Cu(2+). Lens proteins, however, had no effect on superoxide generated by the hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase system. The oxidation of ascorbic acid was increased 170-fold by the addition of 10 μM Cu(2+), but was also completely prevented by added lens proteins. Hydroxyl radical formation, as measured by the conversion of benzoate to salicylate, was increased to 30 nmoles/ml after 18 h by the addition of 100 μM Cu(2+) and 2.5 mM H2O2. This increase was also blocked by the addition of lens proteins. However, hydroxyl radical formation, as estimated by the crosslinking and fragmentation of lens proteins, was observed in the presence of 100 μM Cu(2+), likely at the sites of Cu(2+) binding. Since the ratio of lens proteins to Cu(2+) in human lens is at least 1000-fold higher than those used here, the data argue that Cu(2+) in the lens would be tightly bound to protein, preventing ROS-mediated AGE formation from glucose in vivo.
The development of the dog nigrostriatal system in organotypic culture.

Portions of the midbrain and the caudate nucleus from newborn dog (1–3 days old) were maintained in explant culture for periods up to 15 weeks. During that time, nerve cells developing in the midbrain explants projected axons into the explants of caudate. Fluorescence microscopic observations indicated that a large number of projecting fibers contained catecholamines with many fluorescing terminals visible in caudate explants. Ultrastructural study disclosed synapses in both midbrain and caudate explants. Some axonal profiles in the caudate were compatible with the appearance of catecholaminergic synapses. Neurochemical analysis showed that the nigrostriatal cultures were capable of dopamine uptake and release.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND ENVY

This paper is a critical evaluation of Hayek's “Atavism of social justice” thesis, suggesting an alternative explanation of the widespread demands for social justice in contemporary society. It is based on the analysis of the nature of entrepreneurship and its tendency to incite envy. The advantages of the proposed explanation include a better understanding of the persistent hostility against commerce and the market system and the possibility of a systematic exploration of the factors which make the demand for social justice stronger or weaker.
Congenital pancreatic cysts in children

The authors report a case of an 11-year-old girl with a solitary, congenital pancreatic cyst and review the literature. Such cysts are very rare and typically are diagnosed in childhood. As a neonate, this patient's paternal half brother also had undergone resection of a congenital pancreatic cyst. The authors believe this is the first documented familial incidence of a congenital pancreatic cyst.
Comparison of two regional techniques for postoperative analgesia in children following herniotomy and orchidopexy

This study compares the quality and duration of analgesia in two groups of patients aged between 1 and 13 years who received either caudal anaesthesia with plain bupivacaine 0.25% or an iliohypogastric and inguinal nerve block combined with skin infiltration using bupivacaine 0.25% with adrenaline 1:200,000. The results indicate no significant difference in the duration or quality of the analgesia provided by the two techniques. There was no difference in the incidence of vomiting or the time of first micturition between the two groups.
Thermal analysis of the CDF SVX II silicon vertex detector

Abstract A simple finite difference technique is used to model conduction and convection in silicon detector components. The solution is found using a simultaneous equation solver which solves in minutes and enables parametric studies to be performed quickly and easily. The modelling technique is compared to output from a finer mesh, solved using ANSYS [11]. The method lends itself to the problem of thermal runaway in silicon detectors, which occurs when internal (temperature dependent) heat generation within the silicon exceeds the heat removal rate by conduction and convection, the effect of which increases with radiation dose. Comparisons between the computer simulation and some physical models are provided, as well as a comparison with analytical techniques. This modelling technique is then applied to the CDF SVX II silicon detector to determine the temperature profile of the silicon during operating conditions.
Favorskii rearrangement of α,β-epoxy ketones

Abstract Reactions of α,β-epoxy ketones with nucleophilic bases generally take one of two courses: (1) α-displacement followed by β-elimination of water or (2) Favorskii rearrangement via a cyclopropanone or zwitterion intermediate. Among the factors that appear to control these reactions, it is suspected that an α′-substituent effect may operate. Such an effect has been confirmed by observing the conversion of 3,5,5,6 - tetramethyl - 2,3 - epoxycyclohexanone (1) to the ring-contracted γ-lactone 3, together with other Favorskii rearrangement products, on treatment with refluxing methanolic potassium hydroxide. The α′-methyl substituted steroid 2 under similar reaction conditions was transformed into roughly equal amounts of 4, 5 and 4 (all rationalized by a Favorskii-like mechanism). In each case the analogous epoxy ketone lacking an α′-Me substituent failed to give any Favorskii products.
Crystal structure of 2-chloroacetamide (α form): A reinvestigation

The crystal structure of the α form of 2-chloroacetamide, grown by sub-limation, has been determined from three-dimensional counter data and refined by full-matrix least-squares techniques. The crystals belong to the monoclinic space groupP21/c witha=10.263(8),b=5.142(5),c=7.458(6) A, β=98.72(4) °, andDx=1.60 g cm−3 forZ=4. The finalR factor for 518 observed reflections is 0.037. The molecule exists as a hydrogen-bonded dimer in the crystal structure. The configuration of atoms C(1), C(2), O, and N is planar to within 0.008 A, and the Cl—C(1)—C(2)—O dihedralangle equals 168 °. The dimeric hydrogen bonding as well as the CH2 conformation favors the stabilization of a transient oxygen-centered radical.
Sharktank: The SeCAN Lab "Tip of the Spear" for Commercial Solutions for Classified Mobility Systems

Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) Mobility, as architected and described by the National Security Agency (NSA) in the Mobility Capability Package, provides military and other government agencies with new alternatives for implementing classified communications systems using modern commercial mobile devices and a layered security model to achieve end-to-end assurance of an uncompromised voice and/or data path. As circuit switched data support by mobile carriers wanes, new methods of providing assured communications paths are needed to replace the legacy devices currently in use. The Mobility Capability Package architecture based on CSfC principles provides warfighters and senior leaders with a secure communications architecture that can evolve as industry evolves, providing for the more rapid introduction and adoption of emerging technologies in support of critical missions.
Integrated approaches to understanding antipsychotic drug action at GPCRs.

The G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) family of genes represents one of the largest druggable families of genes in the human genome. This is evident by the fact that approximately 30% of currently marketed drugs target GPCRs. However, many of these drugs are limited in their clinical potential as they are associated with debilitating side effects — a consequence of our incomplete understanding of their pharmacology and the signaling pathways regulated by GPCRs. Because of the limited range of tools available to resolve these issues, integrated approaches are required to fully understand the pharmacological action of drugs and the biochemical repertoire regulated by GPCRs. In this review we will focus on the action of antipsychotic drugs on certain monoamine GPCRs in the central nervous system (CNS) and the approaches being developed to elucidate their distinct pharmacology.
Thermal Conductivity of Mn2SiO4 in the [100] Direction from 80 to 400 K

The thermal conductivity, λ, of synthetic single-crystal tephroite (Mn2SiO4) was Measured from 80 to 400 K with heat flow in the [100] direction. Although the results do not show a strong influence of the antiferromagnetic-paramagnetic transition at 163 K, analysis of the data indicates that the high-temperature λ may be limited by a combination of 3-phonon processes plus scattering by the disordered magnetic moments.
Factors involved in the differential acute toxicity of the insecticides chlorpyrifos and methyl chlopyrifos in mice

Abstract The ip LD50s of the insecticides chlorpyrifos [O,O-diethyl O-(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridyl) phosphorothioate] and methyl chlorpyrifos [O,O-dimethyl O-(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridyl) phosphorothioate] were determined to be 192 and 2325 mg/kg, respectively, in male mice. In an attempt to explain this 12-fold difference in toxicity, the extent of glutathione (GSH)-dependent detoxification of chlorpyrifos, methyl chlorpyrifos, and their oxygen analogs was examined. Incubation of 1000 nmol of insecticides with GSH-fortified mouse liver cytosol resulted in the disappearance of 458 and 819 nmol of chlorpyrifos oxon and methyl chlorpyrifos, respectively. However, chlorpyrifos and methyl chlorpyrifos oxon were not substrates for GSH-dependent biotransformation in vitro. Pretreatment of mice with diethyl maleate resulted in a 2.0- and 8.5-fold increase in the acute toxicities of chlorpyrifos and methyl chlorpyrifos, respectively. Administration of methyl chlorpyrifos (1000 mg/kg) to mice produced a marked, prolonged depletion of hepatic GSH, while administration of chlorpyrifos (70 mg/kg) resulted in a moderate, transient decrease in hepatic GSH content. Both doses inhibited brain and plasma cholinesterase, and brain and liver nonspecific esterase activities to a similar degree. HPLC analyses of brain concentrations of methyl chlorpyrifos and chlorpyrifos revealed that brain levels of methyl chlorpyrifos 46 times greater than those of chlorpyrifos were required to achieve the same degree of brain cholinesterase inhibition. Furthermore, the concentration of methyl chlorpyrifos oxon needed to produce 50% inhibition of bovine red blood cell or mouse brain cholinesterase was 480 times greater than that required for chlorpyrifos oxon. These data suggest that differences in the extent of GSH-mediated detoxification can account for only a portion of the observed differences in acute toxicity between chlorpyrifos and methyl chlorpyrifos.
Using meshfree approximation for multi-asset American options

Abstract We study the applicability of meshfree approximation schemes for the solution of multi‐asset American option problems. In particular, we consider a penalty method which allows us to remove the free and moving boundary by adding a small and continuous penalty term to the Black‐Scholes equation. Time discretization is achieved by a linearly implicit θ method. A comparison with results obtained recently by two of the authors using a linearly implicit finite difference method is included.
Induction of cytoplasmic ribonucleic acid (RNA) synthesis in vaccinia-infected LM cells during inhibition of protein synthesis

Abstract The effects of inhibitors of protein synthesis on the ribonucleic acid (RNA) synthesis of vaccinia-infected mouse fibroblast cells have been investigated. Cyclohexamide, puromycin, and dl - p -fluorophenylalanine (FPA) did not inhibit the induction of cytoplasmic RNA synthesis by vaccinia but did inhibit the incorporation of tritiated (H 3 ) leucine into protein and the induction by vaccinia of thymidine kinase. The results suggest that the RNA polymerase which catalyzes vaccinia-induced RNA synthesis preexists in the cell before infection or that it exists in the infecting virus particles. Joklik (1964) has shown that FPA and puromycin prevent the degradation of infecting vaccinia virions to a form in which the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is susceptible to DNase digestion. Thus, from the findings presented here and those of Joklik (1964) , it is inferred that infecting vaccinia virions may stimulate RNA synthesis without becoming susceptible to DNase digestion. Vaccinia-induced RNA synthesis was less sensitive to inhibition by actinomycin D than was cellular RNA synthesis. Proflavine sulfate was shown to be a potent inhibitor of vaccinia-induced RNA synthesis and vaccinia-induced thymidine kinase formation.
Estimation of variance of partial sums of an associated sequence of random variables

Abstract Let Xn, n ⩾ 1 be a stationary sequence of associated random variables satisfying E(X1) = μ, E(X21) ( Var S n ) n → σ 2 as n → ∞. In this paper, an estimator of σ2 based on the subseries values using overlapping blocks is studied. A central limit theorem related to this estimator is obtained.
Quality of Life after 114 months of follow-up following geometric reconstruction of the left ventricle by endoventriculoplasty with septal exclusion.

Background: The purpose of this study was to present the surgical experience of the Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery of West of Parana (ICCOP) with respect to the treatment of left ventricle aneurysms by endoventriculoplasty with septal exclusion (EVSE) and to evaluate the quality of life of these patients after a 114-month follow-up.Methods: Between April 1999 and April 2006, 28 patients underwent EVSE. Preoperative, transoperative, and late postoperative clinical and echocardiographic variables were analyzed retrospectively. In addition, latepostoperative quality of life was evaluated with questionnaire SF-36 (Brazilian version). The mean age (±SD) of the group was 59.0 ± 9.5 years, and 23 of the patients were male. Seventeen patients were in New York Heart Association functional class IV, and the mean preoperative EuroSCORE was 8.2 ± 2.3. The mean preoperative values for the ejection fraction (EF) and the end-systolic and end-diastolic left ventricular volumes were 32.3% ± 9.2%, 113.9 ± 36.0 mL, and 179.2 ± 48.4 mL, respectively.Results: The in-hospital mortality rate was 14.3%, with the major causes of morbidity being low cardiac output syndrome and arrhythmias. The mean follow-up period was 5.9 ± 3.4 years. The left ventricular EF and the aortic cross-clamping time were the significant factors for hospital and late mortality (P = .0222, and P = .0123, respectively). The actuarial survival curve showed survival rates of 82.1 ± 7.2%, and 54.7 ± 22.9%, before and after 107 months of follow-up. The overall score for the quality of life showed an improvement.Conclusion: EVSE surgery is an effective option for treating this group of patients, with improvement noted in left ventricular function and in the patients' quality of life, despite the high in-hospital mortality.
Cardiovascular responses during buccal and thoracic respiration in the lizard, Sauromalus obesus☆

1. 1. The lizard Sauromalus obesus usually respires by thoracic movements but can ventilate and inflate its lungs by buccal movements. 2. 2. When the lungs were inflated intratracheal, intra-abdominal, carotid and sciatic vein pressures all rose above pre-inflation levels, but intrathoracic and vena cava pressures rose only moderately, or dropped below pre-inflation levels. 3. 3. Jugular pressure during the deglutitory pauses of inflation usually showed no increase. Heart rate usually increased. 4. 4. The data show little or no reason to suspect appreciable circulatory impairment resulting from the high intrapulmonary pressures of inflation.
How to write a successful grant application and research paper

The 2 most challenging tasks that every investigator faces are to secure grants and publish papers. In the current funding environment, preparing an outstanding grant proposal is critical, as even minute deficiencies can potentially lead to rejection. Furthermore, publications in reputable journals are crucial to disseminate research findings and promote career development. The purpose of this article is to review some of the key elements that characterize successful grant proposals and scientific papers and to offer advice (based on my own experience) that I hope will be helpful to applicants and authors. Writing a grant application is a demanding process, especially in the current environment of historically low funding levels.1 The current funding rate of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute is 10%, compared with ≈30% funding rate in 2001. When preparing a grant application, the 5 criteria that reviewers will use to score the grant (ie, Significance, Investigator, Innovation, Approach, and Environment) should be kept in mind throughout the process. It is also important to start early and allow yourself at least 4 to 6 months to prepare the proposal.1–3 Of course, the preparation time may vary depending on the applicant’s experience with the process, the extent of the proposal, and time needed to prepare preliminary results. It is generally recommended that the grant application be completed in its entirety at least 1 week in advance to allow for unforeseeable events and issues. Because most agencies have ≤3 submission dates per year, missing a submission date can delay potential funding by several months. ### Initial Steps There are several steps that need to be taken for the initial steps of grant preparation. The first and perhaps the most critical step is formulating a study question. The study question on which the overall hypothesis is based on should …
Outcomes in children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome undergoing open fundoplication

Abstract Background/Purpose Some institutions recommend early fundoplication in patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) with signs of gastroesophageal reflux disease because of the risk of reflux-related cardiac events. However, their cardiac physiology may impose high perioperative morbidity and mortality. Therefore, we reviewed our experience with fundoplication in this population to allow for assessment of the risk-benefit ratio. Methods A retrospective review of patients with a diagnosis of HLHS who underwent a fundoplication from January 1990 to July 7, 2009, was performed. All patients underwent open fundoplication between first and second stages of cardiac repair. Results Thirty-nine patients were identified. There were 3 intraoperative complications: hemodynamic instability (n = 2) and a pulmonary hypertensive crisis requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and termination of the procedure (n = 1). There were 27 postoperative complications in 16 patients. There were 2 deaths (4%) within 30 days, and there were 9 deaths (23%) in patients between their first and second stage of cardiac repair during the study period. Conclusions Noncardiac surgical procedures in patients palliated for HLHS have a high morbidity and mortality. We recommend that routine fundoplication in this population should only be performed under prospective protocols until the relative risk of operation vs risk of reflux is delineated.
Subcutaneous Versus Intravenous Bortezomib Efficiency Practice Variables and Patient Preferences

Background: Subcutaneous bortezomib is noninferior in efficacy to intravenous bortezomib and is associated with a lower incidence of neuropathy in the treatment of multiple myeloma. However, there are no data assessing the effect of subcutaneous bortezomib administration on practice variables or patient preferences. Objective: To quantify the difference in efficiency practice variables and patient preferences regarding subcutaneous versus intravenous bortezomib administration in patients with multiple myeloma. Methods: This study was divided into 2 parts consisting of mutually exclusive patients: a retrospective efficiency study and a survey study. Patients’ medical records were reviewed for efficiency data measures including length of infusion chair time and overall infusion center visit time in patients who received at least 6 doses of bortezomib. Patients who received at least 1 dose each of subcutaneous and intravenous administration were surveyed regarding preference, satisfaction, injection site rea...
Seasonal Changes in Prolactin Physiology

Prolactin is involved in seasonal changes in physiology in several classes of vertebrates. However, prolactin is not involved in the timing of all such seasonal changes. In teleosts changes of day length resulted in changes in the diurnal rhythm of the lipogenic effects of prolactin. Thus, where prolactin physiology changes with season it may result from changes in the diurnal physiology of this hormone. There are at least two aspects to these cyclical changes since both hormone release and hormone effect may change. In teleosts the pineal may respond to changes in day length and modify prolactin release. Further work is required especially in the construction of models that will allow the ordering of the complex data.
Growth effects of lithium chloride in BALB/c 3T3 fibroblasts and madin-darby canine kidney epithelial cells

Abstract The ability of LiCl to initiate DNA synthesis was studied in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, and mouse BALB/c 3T3 fibroblasts. In a defined culture medium lacking serum, LiCl increased DNA synthesis in BALB/c 3T3 cells 100–200% over control values. Maximum DNA synthesis was observed with concentrations of LiCl between 10 and 25 mM and increases from 40–50% over control were observed with concentrations as low as 1 mM. Exposure of BALB/c 3T3 cultures to LiCl resulted in an increase in the percentage of cells initiating DNA synthesis, total DNA content and cell number. Lithium chloride, in combination with insulin or epidermal growth factor (EGF), had either an additive or synergistic effect upon the growth of BALB/c 3T3 fibroblasts. MDCK cells proved refractory to the growth actions of LiCl, although they responded to EGF and insulin with increased DNA synthesis. Lithium chloride appears to have a direct effect on cell proliferation in some but not all cell types.
Absolute integrated intensity and individual line parameters for the 6·2μ band of NO2

The absolute integrated intensity of the 6.2-micron band of NO2 at 40 C was determined from quantitative spectra at about 10 per cm resolution by the spectral band model technique. A value of 1430 plus or minus 300 per sq cm per atm was obtained. Individual line parameters, positions, intensities, and ground-state energies were derived, and line-by-line calculations were compared with the band model results and with the quantitative spectra obtained at about 0.5 per cm resolution.
Listening Behaviors of Married Couples: An Exploration of Nonverbal Presentation to a Relational Outsider

Abstract This study examined the nonverbal behaviors of spouses as they listened to their partners present an area of disagreement in their marriage to a relational outsider. Ninety-four married couples, representing a range of marital satisfaction levels, engaged in an interview with a researcher about areas of disagreement in their relationships. A rating system was used to capture the nonverbal listening behaviors of spouses from tapes of the interactions. Husbands and wives demonstrated similar composites of listening behaviors overall, but there were some differences in how the particular behaviors were enacted. Specifically, both husbands and wives enacted nonverbal listening behaviors that demonstrated negative emotion and nonverbal involvement. Results also indicated that displays of negative emotion predicted relational dissatisfaction for husbands. Displays of negative emotion did not predict relational dissatisfaction for wives. Nonverbal involvement did not predict relational satisfaction for ...
Smoking Cessation Following CT Screening for Early Detection of Lung Cancer

Abstract Background. This study was conducted to assess the impact of lung cancer screening participation on smoking cessation. Methods. Individuals ( n = 134) who reported active smoking at the time of enrollment in our Early Lung Cancer Action Program (ELCAP) completed a brief, follow-up telephone interview assessing any changes in smoking patterns following lung cancer screening. Using logistic regression, we estimated the probability of decreasing or quitting smoking using each enrollee's background information and computed tomography (CT) scan results. Results. Most survey respondents (74%) agreed that participation in the ELCAP increased their motivation for quitting smoking. In terms of self-reported changes in smoking behavior, 31 (23%) reported that they had quit and 35 (27%) decreased their smoking patterns. Several significant covariates of smoking cessation were identified: perceived benefit of quitting (OR 4.02), cancer anxiety (OR 2.49), younger age (OR 2.47), and abnormal CT finding (1.97). Conclusions. Our analyses suggest that low-dose helical CT scanning may serve as a strong catalyst for smoking cessation and that delivery of effective smoking cessation interventions along with CT scanning represents a potential opportunity to increase the overall cancer prevention benefit of lung cancer screening.
Adenosine analogue reduces spinal cord reperfusion injury in a time-dependent fashion.

Abstract Background. We hypothesized that inflammation during spinal cord reperfusion worsens ischemic injury. ATL-146e, an adenosine A2A agonist with known anti-inflammatory properties, was used to test this hypothesis at varied intervals to determine the time course of reperfusion injury. Methods. Forty rabbits underwent cross-clamping of the infrarenal aorta for 45 minutes. One group (n = 14 animals) received 0.06 μg/kg/min systemic ATL-146e over 3 hours, beginning after 30 minutes of ischemic time. A second group (n = 6 animals) received ATL-146e over 1.5 hours. A third group (n = 3 animals) received ATL-146e over 1 hour, and a fourth group (n = 17 animals) received saline solution. All animals were assessed at 48 hours for hind limb motor function (Tarlov scale, 0-5). Results. Animals that received ATL-146e for 3 hours (Tarlov score, 4.3 ± 0.22; P
Morphology and properties of thermoplastic polyurethane nanocomposites: Effect of organoclay structure

Abstract A series of alkyl ammonium/MMT organoclays were carefully selected to explore structure–property relationships for thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nanocomposites prepared by melt processing. Each organoclay was melt-blended with a medium-hardness, ester-based TPU, while a more limited number of organoclays was blended with a high-hardness, ether-based TPU. Wide-angle X-ray scattering, transmission electron microscopy, particle analysis, and stress–strain behavior were used to examine the effects of organoclay structure and TPU chemical structure on morphology and mechanical properties. Specifically, the following were observed: (a) one long alkyl tail on the ammonium ion rather than two, (b) hydroxy ethyl groups on the amine rather than methyl groups, and (c) a longer alkyl tail as opposed to a shorter one leads to higher clay dispersion and stiffness for medium-hardness TPU nanocomposites. Overall, the organoclay containing hydroxy ethyl functional groups produces the best dispersion of organoclay particles and the highest matrix reinforcement, while the one containing two alkyl tails produces the poorest. The two TPU's exhibit similar trends with regard to the effect of organoclay structure. The high-hardness TPU nanocomposites showed a slightly higher number of particles and clay dispersion. The organoclay structure trends are analogous to what has been observed for nylon 6-based nanocomposites; this suggests that polar polymers like polyamides, and apparently polyurethanes, have a relatively good affinity for the polar clay surface; and in the case of polyurethanes, the high affinity of the matrix for the hydroxy ethyl functional groups in the organoclay aids clay dispersion and exfoliation.
Effects of stress on fish reproduction, gamete quality, and progeny

Different taxa of fish have different tolerances to stress. This implies that for a particular stressor, severity may vary depending on the species to which it was applied. Species may differ in the nature of their physiological response and reproductive consequences to stressors. For example, disturbance or handling may affect the timing of reproduction—accelerating or delaying it as the case may be—in species such as rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss); however, tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) respond by acceleration or complete inhibition of reproduction, depending on the maturational stage when the stressor is experienced. Strategies for coping with stress affect reproductive fitness either in terms of gamete or progeny quality. The physiology associated with maturation and spawning appears tightly coupled with stress physiology. Environmental variables, particularly nutrition, are ultimately important in affecting gamete quality and reproductive timing. The physiological response to stressors is also quite polymorphic, within and between species. For example, the circulating concentration of the primary stress response factor cortisol varies greatly among resting and among stressed rainbow trout stocks. Immunocapacity can be influenced by stress, reducing reproductive fitness of broodfish. We propose that maternal systems have been developed to buffer eggs from deleterious consequences of stressors, including regulation of transfer of substances of maternal origin to the egg and in mechanisms controlling the timing of reproduction. Effects of nutritional stressors are moderated by effects on timing of first maturity or subsequent reproductive events and/or by maintenance of quality of some eggs via atresia of others. Deleterious overload of eggs with substances such as cortisol is likely prevented by limiting entry of these compounds into the eggs. Barriers to vertical transmission of numerous pathogens seem to exist, while maternally derived immune protection is provided to assist with disease prevention of pathogenic organisms acquired from parents or by direct post-spawning infection. Timing of reproductive events including puberty, atresia, maturation and ovulation are influenced by other physiological variables responsive to stressors. Knowledge of how a stressor might affect the physiology of a species can help in development of management tactics that lessen the impact of a stressor or even in the development of therapeutants. Published by Elsevier Science B.V.
The production of media violence and aggression research: A cultural analysis.

This study investigates the continuing production of media effects research that focuses on the media violence and aggression (MV/A) connection. It does so by analyzing the production trends and characteristics evidenced in an archive of 966 MV/A journal articles. The analysis found the archive marked by initiatives in governmental funding and private philanthropy, shifting disciplinary interests, cycles of editorial attention, and the economies of disciplinary authentication and professional legitimation. Analysis of the mainline arguments indicated a shift from an audience-activated effect to one in which the individual is an unwitting accomplice. Finally, the study showed that the continuing interest in media serves to deflect attention from much more serious (but much more costly to remedy) sources of aggression and to elevate the role of media to that same level of importance.
Gustatory mechanisms and sugar‐feeding in the mosquito, Culiseta inornata

. Gustatory hairs on the legs and mouthparts of the mosquito, Culiseta inornata, were stimulated with sucrose solutions to determine their role in the finding and consuming of nectar by females. Stimulation of tarsi initiated probing, which continued without subsequent stimulation of tarsal hairs. Turning in response to tarsal stimulation depended on which leg was stimulated. Once gustatory hairs on the labella were stimulated, turning and probing were discontinued. Stimulation of the hairs on the external surface of the labella apparently initiates the labellar opening response, while stimulation of hairs on the oral surface of the labella maintains the labellar response. Electrophysiologically recorded activity of cibarial and pharyngeal pumps was used to assess the influence of the five relevant sets of gustatory hairs on initiation of sucking. None of the sets alone were capable of initiating sucking. Sucking was initiated when the hairs on the oral surface of the labella were stimulated simultaneously with sensory hairs on the tip of the labrum. The gustatory hairs on the oral surface of the labella exerted considerable influence in determining the amount of sugar or water imbibed.
The High Strain Rate Dynamic Stress-Strain Curve for OFHC Copper

The high strain rate (-104/s) mechanical properties of a 152μm grain size OFHC copper were determined from the analysis of ballistic test specimens subjected to the Taylor Test. Deformation was analyzed by two independent techniques, one an analytical method and the second a finite element numerical model. The results from these complementary analyses were combined to construct a high strain rate dynamic stress-strain curve for this OFHC copper. This dynamic stress-strain curve is then compared with conventional quasi-static mechanical test data. When deformed at these high strain rates, the OFHC copper exhibits an increase in the yield strength, the strain-hardening rate and the ultimate dynamic strength relative to their conventional quasi-static values. The OFHC copper results are then compared with high strain rate measurements for high purity 1100 aluminum. This reveals distinct differences of the high strain rate deformation of these two metals. It is suggested that the differences may relate to the ability of the OFHC copper to deform by twinning, whereas the aluminum does not exhibit a twinning mode of deformation.
Current options for injectable contraception in the United States.

Two injectable forms of hormonal contraception, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA, Depo-Provera) and medroxyprogesterone acetate/estradiol cypionate (MPA/E(2)C, Lunelle), are now available to American women. Both formulations have demonstrated high degrees of efficacy, safety, and ease of use in international and U.S. trials. Data on DMPA have shown a number of noncontraceptive and therapeutic benefits, the most prominent of which is an 80% reduction in the risk of endometrial cancer. Although such benefits are less documented for MPA/E(2)C, they are expected to be similar to those seen with DMPA and oral contraceptives. Minor side effects of both formulations include menstrual irregularities in the early months of treatment and amenorrhea with DMPA. Patient counseling about the potential for these side effects, as well as possible risks, is important to long-term successful use of these contraceptive methods.
Raman spectroscopy to distinguish grey matter, necrosis, and glioblastoma multiforme in frozen tissue sections

The need exists for a highly accurate, efficient and inexpensive tool to distinguish normal brain tissue from glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and necrosis boundaries rapidly, in real-time, in the operating room. Raman spectroscopy provides a unique biochemical signature of a tissue type, with the potential to provide intraoperative identification of tumor and necrosis boundaries. We aimed to develop a database of Raman spectra from normal brain, GBM, and necrosis, and a methodology for distinguishing these pathologies. Raman spectroscopy was used to measure 95 regions from 40 frozen tissue sections using 785 nm excitation wavelength. Review of adjacent hematoxylin and eosin sections confirmed histology of each region. Three regions each of normal grey matter, necrosis, and GBM were selected as a training set. Ten regions were selected as a validation set, with a secondary validation set of tissue regions containing freeze artifact. Grey matter contained higher lipid (1061, 1081 cm−1) content, whereas necrosis revealed increased protein and nucleic acid content (1003, 1206, 1239, 1255–1266, 1552 cm−1). GBM fell between these two extremes. Discriminant function analysis showed 99.6, 97.8, and 77.5 % accuracy in distinguishing tissue types in the training, validation, and validation with freeze artifact datasets, respectively. Decreased classification in the freeze artifact group was due to tissue preparation damage. This study shows the potential of Raman spectroscopy to accurately identify normal brain, necrosis, and GBM as a tool to augment pathologic diagnosis. Future work will develop mapped images of diffuse glioma and neoplastic margins toward development of an intraoperative surgical tool.
Critical Role for Transcription Coactivator Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor (PPAR)-binding Protein/TRAP220 in Liver Regeneration and PPARα Ligand-induced Liver Tumor Development

Disruption of the gene encoding for the transcription coactivator peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-binding protein (PBP/TRAP220/DRIP205/Med1) in the mouse results in embryonic lethality. Here, we have reported that targeted disruption of the Pbp/Pparbp gene in hepatocytes (Pbp(DeltaLiv)) impairs liver regeneration with low survival after partial hepatectomy. Analysis of cell cycle progression suggests a defective exit from quiescence, reduced BrdUrd incorporation, and diminished entry into G(2)/M phase in Pbp(DeltaLiv) hepatocytes after partial hepatectomy. Pbp(DeltaLiv) hepatocytes failed to respond to hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor, implying that hepatic PBP deficiency affects c-met signaling. Pbp gene disruption also abolishes primary mitogen-induced liver cell proliferative response. Striking abrogation of CCl(4)-induced hepatocellular proliferation and hepatotoxicity occurred in Pbp(DeltaLiv) mice pretreated with phenobarbital due to lack of expression of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes necessary for CCl(4) activation. Pbp(DeltaLiv) mice, chronically exposed to Wy-14,643, a PPARalpha ligand, revealed a striking proliferative response and clonal expansion of a few Pbp(fl/fl) hepatocytes that escaped Cre-mediated gene deletion in Pbp(DeltaLiv) livers, but no proliferative expansion of PBP null hepatocytes was observed. In these Pbp(DeltaLiv) mice, none of the Wy-14,643-induced hepatic adenomas and hepatocellular carcinomas was derived from PBP(DeltaLiv) hepatocytes; all liver tumors developing in Pbp(DeltaLiv) mice maintained non-recombinant Pbp alleles and retained PBP expression. These studies provide direct evidence in support of a critical role of PBP/TRAP220 in liver regeneration, induction of hepatotoxicity, and hepatocarcinogenesis.
An electrostatic model of B-DNA for its stability against unwinding

Abstract In single molecule experiments Smith et al. (Science 271 (1996) 795) have unwound the B-DNA helix by stretching it in an aqueous salt solution. They found that the stretching force required for the transition decreases significantly with lowering of the salt concentration. We show that the observed salt effect is consistent with a uniformly charged cylinder model of DNA surrounded by a Poisson–Boltzmann ionic atmosphere. We also derive a simple connection between the sharpness of the center part of the transition and its cooperativity in terms of an average block size of base pairs that unwinds or rewinds.
Protocol considerations for video prefix-caching proxy in wide area networks

Internet service providers can improve performance by caching the prefix of video streams at proxies near the requesting clients. An efficient protocol for video prefix-caching proxy is presented. It is shown that the proposed protocol can be used efficiently in TCP splicing.
Regulation of the efficiency and thermodependence of murine sarcoma virus MuSVts110 RNA splicing by sequences in both exons.

Abstract Efficient splicing of MuSVtsl 10 RNA is restricted to temperatures of 33° or lower. Previously, we have shown that this conditional splicing event is mediated, in part, by cis -acting intronic sequences. We have now examined the role of exon sequences in MuSVtsl10 RNA splicing. We found that deletion of all but 36 nucleotides of the gag exon (E1) yielded a transcript incapable of supporting splicing. However, inefficient, growth temperature-dependent splicing was recovered after restoration of the 300 nucleotides of El proximal to the 5′ splice site (5′ ss ). Increasingly efficient splicing was observed as more E1 was restored. Hence, although MuSVtsl 10 El sequences were required for splicing, they were not involved in its thermodependence. Similarly, removal of all but 88 nucleotides of the mos axon (E2) abolished splicing at the usual 3′ splice site (3′ ss). In contrast to El, restoration of the 200 nucleotides of E2 adjacent to the 3′ ss reactivated efficient, temperature-independent splicing. Thermodependent splicing, however, reappeared with the replacement of E2 sequences located more than 400 nucleotides distal to the 3′ splice site. In MuSVtsl10 mutants containing the minimum amounts of both El and E2 which would support splicing, splicing was both far more efficient than predicted and temperature-independent, suggesting that cooperation between El and E2 may help to regulate MuSVtsl 10 splicing.