cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Big Data: Pitfalls, Methods and Concepts for an Emergent Field

Big Data, large-scale aggregate databases of imprints of online and social media activity, has captured scientific and policy attention. However, this emergent field is challenged by inadequate attention to methodological and conceptual issues. I review key methodological and conceptual challenges including: 1) Inadequate attention to the implicit and explicit structural biases of the platform(s) most frequently used to generate datasets (the model organism problem). 2) The common practice of selecting on the dependent variable without corresponding attention to the complications of this path. 3) Lack of clarity with regard to sampling, universe and representativeness (the denominator problem). 4) Most big data analyses come from a single platform (hence missing the ecology of information flows). Conceptual issues reviewed in this paper include: 1) More research is needed to interpret aggregated mediated interactions. Clicks, status updates, links, retweets, etc. are complex social interactions. 2) Network methods imported from other fields need to be carefully reconsidered to evaluate appropriateness for analyzing human social media imprints. 3) Most big datasets contain information only on “node-to-node” interaction. However, “field” effects – events that affect a society or a group in a wholesale fashion either through shared experience or through broadcast media – are an important part of human socio-cultural experience. 4.Human reflexivity – that humans will alter behaviors around metrics – needs to be assumed and built into the analysis. 5) Assuming additivity and counting interactions so that each new interaction is seen as (n 1) without regards to the semantics or context can be misleading. 6) The relationship between network structure and other attributes is complex and multi-faceted.
EFFECT OF CHLORCYCLIZINE ON THE TOXICITY AND METABOLISM OF OCTAMETHYL PYROPHOSPHORAMIDE.

Abstract 1. 1. Rats and mice were protected from the lethal effect of OMPA by pretreatment with a single dose of chlorcyclizine administered shortly before OMPA. 2. 2. A single dose of chlorcyclizine also prolonged hexabarbital sleeping time in both species. 3. 3. In vitro, chlorcyclizine inhibited the transformation of OMPA to the toxic metabolite, which is a potent cholinesterase inhibitor. 4. 4. The administration of chlorcyclizine to mice twice a day for 3 days did not increase or decrease the toxicity of OMPA although hexobarbital sleeping time was decreased. 5. 5. Similar treatment of rats with chlorcyclizine resulted in a decreased OMPA toxicity although hexobarbital sleeping time was unaltered. 6. 6. Triacetin esterase activity of rat liver was not affected by repeated chlorcyclizine administration although the activity of this enzyme in plasma was slightly decreased. 7. 7. Treatment of rats for 3 days with chlorcyclizine resulted in inhibition of OMPA activation by the liver. 8. 8. Evidence is presented which indicates that the active metabolite of OMPA is not destroyed by liver enzymes.
Ultrasound Evaluation of Baker Cysts: Diagnosis and Management

A Baker cyst is a common finding in patients with intra-articular knee pathology, such as degenerative or inflammatory arthritis, meniscal tears, and other internal derangement of the knee [1-10]. This localized fluid collection represents distention of the gastrocnemiussemimembranosus bursa [1,2,4,8,9,11-13]. Although Baker cysts are frequently asymptomatic, patients may present with posterior knee pain, reduced knee range of motion, or a posterior knee mass [2,6,8]. The diagnosis is often made clinically or with the assistance of advanced imaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound (US). Similar to other cysts, management of a Baker cyst is often aimed at treating the underlying cause, in this case, the intra-articular knee pathology [2,5,7,8]. US has previously been shown to be a reliable way to confirm the diagnosis of a Baker cyst [1,14,15]. The specific location and imaging characteristics are critical in the accurate diagnosis of a Baker cyst [1,9,11,12,14]. Other less common but significant masses may be found in the popliteal fossa, including popliteal artery aneurysms and bone and soft tissue tumors [8,9,14-16]. The following case demonstrates the use of US to confirm the diagnosis of a Baker cyst in a patient who presented with knee pain and stiffness, and to provide direct visualization of complete cyst aspiration.
Toward an Understanding of the Equality of Pain: Crawford Long and the Development of Anesthesia in Antebellum Georgia☆☆☆★

Dr. Crawford Long's career illustrates the complicated intersection of science, sympathy, medical experimentation, race, and gender within the history of anesthesia in the United States. Considered by many to be the first physician to administer ether for surgical anesthesia, Long anesthetized a broad cross-section of his rural Georgia society, including white men, white women, and enslaved black children. These initial uses of ether can be considered both a racialized and gendered experiment reflective of contemporary thinking as well as a radical expression of equality in the context of medical development and understandings of pain. Emerging from this examination of Long's practices and writing is the narrative of a well-meaning and time-bound doctor, living amidst the shadows of antebellum plantations and confronted by his diverse patients' experience of pain.
Cracking of Non-PWHT’d Carbon Steel Operating at Conditions Immediately Below the Nelson Curve

Cracking was observed in non-PWHT’d carbon steel piping and vessels operating at conditions immediately below the “Nelson” curve. This curve provides a threshold limit for high temperature hydrogen attack as a function of the equipment operating temperature and hydrogen partial pressure. This curve is based on industry experience with steel equipment operating for many years in high temperature high pressure hydrogen service. Our investigation indicated that cracking occurred in 2 stages. Stage 1 or the initial stage of cracking appeared to occur as a result of intergranular “hydrogen assisted” cracking very similar to high temperature hydrogen attack. It appears that Stage 1 cracking is driven by the combined effects of residual welding stresses and “methane pressure” stresses from the decomposition of carbides. The circumstances of the observed cracking indicate that, unlike high temperature hydrogen attack, it occurred over a relatively short period of time after an operating change to a higher hydrogen partial pressure. Stage 2 cracking results from sulfide scale packing the crack during high temperature operation in a sulfidizing environment and causes the Stage 1 cracks to further propagate through wall. Once the sulfide scale filled crack cools down during a shutdown, the surrounding metal contracts around the scale and causes a high load on the crack tip which promotes further crack propagation. The presence of dissolved hydrogen in the steel further promotes Stage 2 crack propagation during shutdown periods.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Pathophysiology of acute coma and disorders of consciousness: Considerations for diagnosis and management

Disorders of consciousness are due to failure of the arousal system. In this review, the authors introduce the spectrum of disorders of consciousness and describe the structures, projections, and neurotransmitters involved in the generation and maintenance of arousal. Next, they discuss the neurologic diseases frequently associated with arousal failure. Evaluation of patients with disorders of arousal is summarized, including the neurologic exam, electrophysiological studies, biochemical testing, and imaging modalities. Finally, they review treatment options, including therapeutic hypothermia, medications, and deep brain and spinal cord stimulation.
Disorder−Order Transition in Mesoscopic Silica Thin Films

Electron microscopy has been used to study the mesoscopic (nanometer-level) and microscopic (micrometer-level) structural evolution of mesoscopic silica thin films grown at the air−water interface under dilute, acidic (pH < 2) conditions. Transmission electron microscope observations reveal that the film begins with a disordered (amorphous) structure. Over time, mesoscopically ordered regions (hexagonally packed cylindrical channels) nucleate and grow within the film. Scanning electron microscopy reveals microscopic structural features such as ribbons, protrusions, domain boundaries, microindentations, and pits. Our work shows that mesoscopic order develops within the film through a “disorder to order transition.” Our observations also clarify the role of the air−water interface in confining film growth to two dimensions during the initial stages. We note that a two-dimensional (in-plane) to three-dimensional (unconstrained) growth transition occurs when the film exceeds a critical thickness. We extend th...
Occurrence of a dihydroxy ϵ-carotene in a fish

Abstract 1. 1. A xanthophyll suspected of being 3,3′-dihydroxy ϵ -carotene has been isolated from the green skin of Apodichthys flavidus Girard. 2. 2. This carotenoid was found to comprise almost 90 per cent of the total pigment. 3. 3. Preliminary work indicates that this compound may have a wide distribution among marine fishes.
Intracellular ATP directly blocks K + channels in pancreatic B-cells

It is known that glucose-induced depolarization of pancreatic B-cells is due to reduced membrane K+-permeability and is coupled to an increase in the rate of glycolysis, but there has been no direct evidence linking specific metabolic processes or products to the closing of membrane K+ channels. During patch-clamp studies of proton inhibition of Ca2+-activated K+ channels [GK(Ca)] in B-cells, we identified a second K+-selective channel which is rapidly and reversibly inhibited by ATP applied to the cytoplasmic surface of the membrane. This channel is spontaneously active in excised patches and frequently coexists with GK(Ca) channels yet is insensitive to membrane potential and to intracellular free Ca2+ and pH. Blocking of the channel is ATP-specific and appears not to require metabolism of the ATP. This ATP-sensitive K+ channel [GK(ATP)] may be a link between metabolism and membrane K+-permeability in pancreatic B-cells.
High resolution MIMO radar with unitary waveform matrix scheduling

In this paper, we present a method of detecting the range and Doppler phase of a point target using multiple antennas. As a key illustrative example, we consider a 4 × 4 system employing a unitary matrix waveform set, e.g., formed from Golay complementary sequences. When a non-negligible Doppler shift is induced by the target motion, the waveform matrix formed from the complementary sequences is no longer unitary, resulting in significantly degraded target range estimates. To solve this problem, a novel Doppler estimation and compensation scheme based on a clever application of DFT is developed that provides notable improvements, both in detection performance, and processing times. Proof-of-concept simulations are presented verifying the efficacy of the proposed Doppler compensation and estimation technique for our unitary waveform matrix designs.
The invisible side of war: families caring for US service members with traumatic brain injuries and polytrauma.

OBJECTIVES:: To (1) identify informal caregivers to injured US service members following acute rehabilitation for polytraumatic injuries, principally traumatic brain injury (TBI), and (2) describe the prevalence and variation of care recipient and caregiver experiences. DESIGN:: Cross-sectional survey of caregivers. PARTICIPANTS:: Caregivers (N = 564) of service members with TBI who received inpatient rehabilitation care in a Veterans Affairs' Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center between 2001 and 2009. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:: Questions about caregiver and patient characteristics, type, and quantity of care currently being provided. RESULTS:: Caregiving responsibilities fall primarily on women (79%), typically a parent (62%) or spouse (32%). After a median 4 years since injury, 22% of patients still required assistance with activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living. An additional 48% required assistance with only instrumental activities of daily living. Nearly 25% of caregivers reported more than 40 h/wk of care and another 20% reported 5 to 40 h/wk of care. Of caregivers providing assistance with activities of daily living, 49% provided care ≥80 h/wk. Nearly 60% of caregivers were solely responsible for the caregiving. Most caregivers also reported providing other help, including managing emotions and navigating health and legal systems. CONCLUSIONS:: Caregivers who provide assistance with either activities of daily living or instrumental activities of daily living may need additional resources to meet the long-term needs of their injured family member. Language: en
Facial expression in pain: A study of candid photographs

A number of investigators have reported that observers can reliably distinguish facial expressions of pain. The purpose of this study was to describe the consistencies which might exist in facial behavior shown during pain. Sixteen candid photographs showing faces of individuals in situations associated with intense, acute pain (e.g., childbirth, various injuries, surgery without anesthesia) were coded using the anatomically-based Facial Action Coding System (FACS) of Ekman and Friesen. A characteristic pain expression—brow lowering with skin drawn in tightly around closed eyes, accompanied by a horizontally-stretched, open mouth, often with deepening of the nasolabial furrow—occurred consistently in this series.
First report of Cucumber mosaic virus in Eryngium yuccifolium (rattlesnake master) in Ohio.

Rattlesnake master (Eryngium yuccifolium) is a wildflower that is native to Ohio. In recent years, native wildflowers have become very popular with home gardeners, and conservationists have begun to reestablish these plants in their native ranges. As native perennial wildflowers become more common, it is important to determine if they might serve as possible perennial reservoirs of viruses. A plot of 20 species native to Ohio was established on the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio. In the summers of 1999 and 2001, random samples were collected from established plantings. Some sampled plants did not show symptoms of virus infection; however, all samples of E. yuccifolium appeared chlorotic, slightly mottled, and stunted. Using double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) analysis (1), these plants were assayed for viral infection. dsRNA profiles obtained from symptomatic E. yuccifolium resembled that of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV). These results were confirme...
Jarisch-herxheimer reaction case report

The Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction is a response to the treatment of syphilis. The most common findings are fever, malaise, headache, and exacerbation of cutaneous lesions. The reaction is thought to be due to the effects of treponema breakdown products, and it should not be confused with an allergic reaction to the antibiotic employed. Thus, further therapy must not be withheld. Treatment is symptomatic.
Primary Care Physicians' Attitudes Regarding Collaborating with Home-Based Depression Care Management Providers

Symptom Checklist-20 [HSCL-20], PHQ-9), disability (World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule-II, WHODAS-II), and satisfaction. Results: No participants dropped out. Depression care specialists engaged in an average of 2.4 phone calls and 6.3 faxes per client to the contact person (e.g., receptionist, nurse) at each client’s primary care clinic. In these phone calls and faxes, depression care specialists made an average of 5.4 requests per client, and physicians responded to an average of 3 requests. Each client’s physician responded to at least one collaboration request (e.g., initiating or changing dosage of antidepressant medication; reducing sleep, anxiolytic, and antipsychotic medication; changing pain medication; initiating thyroid medication). Six clients achieved meaningful reductions in PHQ-9 scores at the end of active treatment (i.e., 50% reduction, 5/6 in full remission). In paired t-tests, HSCL-20 and WHODAS-II scores improved from baseline to end of active DCM and from baseline to three months after active DCM (p 0.025). Satisfaction ratings also were favorable. Conclusions: Results of this pilot study suggest that augmenting an existing DCM protocol with a collaboration intervention is feasible to implement by depression care specialists and can improve physician collaboration and client outcomes. Larger scale research is required to determine whether augmenting home-based DCM with the collaboration intervention is more effective than DCM alone. Such research could have implications for theories and models of collaboration across service systems.
Near-Optimal Time-Domain Control of Small Buoys in Irregular Waves

Within the linear theory framework, smooth optimal control for maximum energy conversion in irregular waves requires independent synthesis of two non-causal impulse response functions operating on the body oscillations near the free surface, and one non-causal impulse response function relating the exciting force to the incident wave profile at the body. Full cancellation of reactive forces and matching of radiation damping thus requires knowledge or estimation of device velocity into the future. As suggested in the literature, the control force can be synthesized in long-crested waves by suitably combining the ‘full’ impulse response functions with wave surface elevation information at an appropriately determined distance up-wave of the device. This paper applies the near-optimal control approach investigated earlier by one of the authors (Korde, UA, Applied Ocean Research, to appear) to small floating cylindrical buoys. Absorbed power performance is compared with two other cases, (i) when single-frequency tuning is used based on non-real time adjustment of the reactive and resistive loads to maximize conversion at the spectral peak frequency, and (ii) when no control is applied with damping set to a constant value. Time domain absorbed power results are discussed.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Stress-concentration factors in u-shaped and semi-elliptical edge notches:

Abstract : Stress-concentration factors are analytically determined for relatively deep, constant radii, U-shaped, edge notches in a semi-infinite sheet with uniaxial tension applied parallel to the sheet edge. Because a strong geometric similarity exists between a U-notch and a semi-elliptical notch of the same tip radius, a comparison of such analytical data is effected. Also compared are stress-concentration factors for U-notches in a semi-infinite sheet to other comparable analytical and experimental data available in the literature. Finite width correction factors are applied to the results of the semiinfinite sheet analysis to provide practical design data. Comparisons of such data are made to experimental results provided by a number of investigators. (Author)
Dependence of forms of elasticity solutions on boundary conditions

Abstract The relationships between the forms of three-dimensional elastostatics solutions and the types of prescribed boundary conditions are developed using integral transform methods applied to a finite hollow circular cylinder. It is shown that closed-form and quasi-closed-form solutions are obtainable only for special combinations of boundary conditions and geometric proportions.
Breed Resistance to Nutritional Encephalomalacia in the Fowl

Abstract NUTRITIONAL encephalomalacia, a disease of the nervous system occurring among chicks fed upon a ration deficient in vitamin E, was first reported as a “cerebellar disorder” by Pappenheimer and Goettsch in 1931. It is characterized by ataxia, tremors, retraction of the head, clonic spasms of the legs, and stupor, with edema, minute hemorrhages, cellular deterioration, and capillary thrombosis throughout the brain tissue, most noticeable and most frequently localized in the cerebellum. The disease usually appears between the eleventh and thirty-fourth days of age when chicks are fed a diet deficient in vitamin E. Goettsch and Pappenheimer (1936) showed that vegetable oils and their non-saponifiable fractions offered protection from encephalomalacia. By the inclusion of dl-a-tocopherol in the ration, Dam et al. (1938) demonstrated that this factor, when present, is effective in the control of the disease. It was then believed that the true cause of encephalomalacia had been fully determined to . . .
Comparative kinetics of meiosis in hybrid crosses of Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas and Suminoe oyster C. rivularis with the American oyster C. virginica

Interspecific hybridization of bivalve molluscs within the genera Crassostrea and Pinctada have yielded progeny of one parental type, leading to speculation of gynogenetic or androgenetic development. Therefore, meiotic and early mitotic events of oocytes from the oysters Crassostrea gigas and C. rivularis fertilized with C. virginica sperm, as well as the reciprocal and control crosses, were critically observed in samples taken up to 90 minutes post-insemination. Chromosomal material in oocytes was visualized with the DNA-specific fluorochrome DAPI and epifluorescence microscopy. All crosses produced fertilized oocytes which were observed to proceed through meiosis and early mitosis. Fertilization was ∼20% less successful in hybrid than straight crosses of C. gigas and C. virginica (P = 0.022) but no difference in fertilization was evident in C. rivularis and C. virginica crosses (P = 0.169). The time interval between meiotic and mitotic landmarks was not significantly different among all crosses within each full reciprocal cross. There was no cytological evidence of parthenogenetic, gynogenetic, or androgenetic development. In previous reports, non-hybrid progeny found in hybrid groups were probably contaminants. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
pH-dependent conformational changes in Escherichia coli dihydrofolate reductase revealed by Raman difference spectroscopy.

The catalytic site of all dihydrofolate reductases contains an invariant carboxylic acid, equivalent to Asp-27 in Escherichia coli dihydrofolate reductase (ecDHFR). It has been found that various kinetic and ligand binding properties of ecDHFR show a pH profile with a pK a of about 6.5. The group responsible for this pK a is often assumed to be the carboxyl group of Asp-27. To determine the ionization state of this carboxyl and its pK a , we have employed a novel method, based on Raman difference spectroscopy, to obtain its vibrational spectrum in situ. The method is general for the study of protein carboxyl groups, which are often significantly implicated in protein function and structure; this study establishes the method's limits and problems. The Raman difference spectrum between wild-type ecDHFR and the Asp-27 to serine mutant (D27S) in the pH range 5.6–9.0 has been taken. No protonation of the carboxyl group was detected, implying that its pK a is probably less than 5.0. We did, however, detect a pH dependence in the intensity of Raman bands in the difference spectrum with a pK a of 6.3, indicating that the apo enzyme undergoes a pH-dependent conformational change. Because the carboxyl group of Asp-27 at the active site is the only ionizable group in the binding site, other groups, away from the catalytic site, must be responsible for the pH behavior of ecDHFR.
Rapid temperature jump by infrared diode laser irradiation for patch-clamp studies.

Several thermal TRP ion channels have recently been identified. These channels are directly gated by temperature, but the mechanisms have remained elusive. Studies of their temperature gating have been impeded by lack of methods for rapid alteration of temperature in live cells. As a result, only measurements of steady-state properties have been possible. To solve the problem, we have developed an optical approach that uses recently available infrared diode lasers as heat sources. By restricting laser irradiation around a single cell, our approach can produce constant temperature jumps over 50°C in submilliseconds. Experiments with several heat-gated ion channels (TRPV1–3) show its applicability for rapid temperature perturbation in both single cells and membrane patches. Compared with other laser heating approaches such as those by Raman-shifting of the Nd:YAG fundamentals, our approach has the advantage of being cost effective and applicable to live cells while providing an adequate resolution for time-resolved detection of channel activation.
CT01 IMPACT OF COMPLETION ANGIOGRAPHY AFTER SURGICAL CORONARY REVASCULARIZATION

Background Coronary revascularization surgery does not traditionally employ angiography to assess procedural success. Early graft failure is reported up to 30% in one year (JAMA Nov 2005) may relate to technical errors or conduit problems. We hypothesize that intra-operative assessment of graft by angiography identifies graft defects and may improve the long term graft survival. Methods We have developed one of the first hybrid operation room in the USA. In one year period 203 consecutive patients (age:63+/−16, M/F:126/39) underwent coronary revascularization with angiography before decannulation. Results Of 436 grafts, 72 angiographic defects were detected in 69 grafts (17% of total grafts). There were 11% conduit defects, 3% anastomotic defects, and 3% target vessel error. Of 72 defects, 25/72 defects required minor revision, 47/72 required either surgical or percutaneous intervention. Intra-operative angiography added an average 20+/−12 minutes to the surgery and 112+/−56 ml contrast. Renal function at 24hours and 48 hours after procedure did not vary significantly between patients who did vs. those did not have revisions. There were no significant differences in cardiopulmonary bypass time, aortic cross clamp time, and length of hospital stay for patients who underwent revision compared to those who did not. Renal function, bleeding complication, transfusion were similar in patients with percutaneous vs. surgical revision. Conclusions Intraoperative graft angiography performed at the time of CABG identifies graft defects, allowing for immediate surgical or percutaneous revision. Long-term study is in progress to assess whether intra-operative completion angiography decreases the rate of early graft failure.
Influence of the Design Parameters in a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell on the Mechanical Behavior of the Polymer Membrane

A full three-dimensional, non-isothermal computational fluid dynamics model of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell with straight flow field channels has been developed to simulate the hygro and thermal strains in a polymer membrane, which developed during the cell operation. This comprehensive model accounts for the major transport phenomena in a PEM fuel cell: convective and diffusive heat and mass transfer, electrode kinetics, transport and phase-change mechanism of water, and potential fields. The model is shown to understand the many interacting, complex electrochemical, transport phenomena, and stresses distribution that have limited experimental data. This model is used to study the effect of design parameters on the behavior of the polymer membrane. The results of this study helped us identify critical parameters and shed insight into the physical mechanisms leading to a fuel cell performance under various operating conditions. The results show that the nonuniform distribution of stresses, ...
Genetic differences in cocaine-induced conditioned place preference in mice depend on conditioning trial duration

Rationale: In previous comparisons with C57BL/6J mice, DBA/2J mice have been characterized as ”hyporesponsive” to cocaine’s rewarding effect in the conditioned place-preference paradigm. This finding contrasts with other studies showing greater sensitivity of DBA/2J mice to the rewarding effects of ethanol and morphine in the place conditioning task. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to examine cocaine- induced place conditioning in both strains using apparatus and procedures similar to those used previously to assess ethanol and morphine preference conditioning. Methods: Mice from both strains were exposed to an unbiased place-conditioning procedure using 1, 10, or 30 mg/kg cocaine. Conditioning trial duration was 15, 30, or 60 min. Results: In general, C57BL/6J mice displayed a significant conditioned place preference that was relatively unaffected by cocaine dose or trial duration. In contrast, DBA/2J mice showed no place conditioning at the shortest trial duration, but an increasing level of preference as trial duration increased. At the longest trial duration, both strains showed similar levels of place preference. Conclusions: Genetic differences in sensitivity to cocaine’s rewarding effect depend critically on temporal parameters of the place-conditioning procedure. One possible interpretation of these findings is that short trial durations produce conditioned activity responses that interfere more with expression of conditioned place preference in DBA/2J mice than in C57BL/6J mice. More generally, these findings underscore the need for caution when drawing conclusions about genetic differences in place conditioning, especially when using this paradigm to evaluate the effects of gene knockouts or insertions on drug reward.
Image-guided breast surgery.

With recent advances in technology and increased use of ultrasound, breast surgery has dramatically changed its approach towards nonpalpable lesions. Several image-guided diagnostic and therapeutic procedures have been implemented for the treatment of breast disease. Some of these modalities, including percutaneous image-guided biopsy techniques, were developed for the management of nonpalpable lesions, and they have been incorporated as the current standard of practice. Other innovating image-guided technologies, such as radiofrequency ablation and cryoablation therapy, are being explored in clinical protocols as promising new treament modalities. In this article, the authors review the indications, advantages, and application techniques of the most common and current image-guided procedures performed today for the approach of breast pathology.
Cataracts and Macular Degeneration

The intraocular lens restores general vision and some degree of independence and mobility to patients with dense cataracts and macular degeneration. The patient, however, must be repeatedly warned that fine central vision, particularly reading, will not be possible after the surgery. An aphakic spectacle leaves such patients a narrow band of vision when superimposed over the macular lesion, and contact lenses are too small for the patient to manage insertion without help.
Informed consent, competency, and the illusion of rationality.

Abstract Since the advent of informed consent, patients have become more involved in treatment decisions than ever before. To give an informed consent or refusal a patient must be competent to understand the information being presented. Although most authors agree on the need for a structured format for assessing competency, in practice this step is often omitted if the patient's decision “makes sense.” In this paper we present two cases in which acutely ill patients gave apparently rational refusals of potentially life-prolonging treatment. Following their recovery, both viewed their earlier decisions as irrational. These cases demonstrate some of the difficulties in assessing competency and rationality in gravely ill patients, and the need for careful evaluation regardless of the apparent rationality of expressed desires.
Reasons it is doubtful that preconceptional paternal irradiation with plutonium-239 had any effect on cancer induction by methyl-nitroso-urea

Reasons it is doubtful that preconceptional paternal irradiation with plutonium-239 had any effect on cancer induction by methyl-nitroso-urea
Free Energy Calculations Reveal Rotating-Ratchet Mechanism for DNA Supercoil Relaxation by Topoisomerase IB and its Inhibition

Topoisomerases maintain the proper topological state of DNA. Human topoisomerase I removes DNA supercoils by clamping a duplex DNA segment, nicking one strand at a phosphodiester bond, covalently attaching to the 3' end of the nick, and allowing the DNA downstream of the cut to rotate around the intact strand. Using molecular dynamics simulations and umbrella sampling free energy calculations, we show that the rotation of downstream DNA in the grip of the enzyme that brings about release of positive or negative supercoils occurs by thermally assisted diffusion on ratchet energy profiles. The ratchetlike free-energy-versus-rotation profile that we compute provides a model for the function of topoisomerase in which the periodic maxima along the profile modulate the rate of supercoil relaxation, while the minima provide metastable conformational states for DNA religation. The results confirm previous experimental and computational work, and suggest that relaxation of the two types of supercoils involves distinct protein pathways. Additionally, simulations performed with the ternary complex of topoisomerase, DNA, and the chemotherapeutic drug topotecan show important differences in the mechanisms for supercoil relaxation when the drug is present, accounting for the relative values of relaxation rates measured in single-molecule experiments. Good agreement is found between rate constants from tweezer experiments and those calculated from simulations. Evidence is presented for the existence of semiopen states of the protein, which facilitate rotations after the initial one, as a result of biasing the protein into a conformation more favorable to strand rotation than the closed state required for nicking of the DNA.
Recent reference sources in women's studies

As the field of women's studies has grown into a mature academic discipline, the number of sources devoted to women has increased dramatically, particularly in the last decade. Many of these sources are basic, but fill gaps in the literature and refine search strategy. This article focuses on introductory level materials (listed in the bibliography) appropriate for search strategy use. Titles discussed are useful for topic selection (almanacs, annuals), background information (encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks), supplementary information (statistical, biographical, bibliographic sources), and access to the library catalog and periodical literature (indexes, abstracts). Sources were culled mainly from American Reference Books Annual, New Books on Women and Feminism, and the “New Reference Books in Women's Studies” section of Feminist Collections. With a few exceptions, these sources have been published since the mid‐eighties and were not discussed in Susan Searing's Introduction to Library Research in Women's Studies or Women's Studies: A Recommended Core Bibliography, 1980–1985 by Catherine Loeb, et al.
The Construct Validity of the Self Description Questionnaire on High School Students in Kenya

This study investigated the structural equivalence of the Self Description Questionnaire (SDQ) in relation to Kenyan high school students. A total of 1,990 students from two same-sex boarding schools participated. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed the overall model fit the data well. However, an examination of the individual factors revealed that only 3 of the 13 had all items loading well. These low loading values may be attributed to a combination of cultural differences between Kenyan children and the Western children on whom the scale was initially normed as well as to the complexity of the sentence structures of some items, which may have been difficult for the non-native English speaking students to fully understand. The findings from this study have important implications for those considering the use of the SDQ in African countries. The lack of construct equivalence for some of the subscales may be due in part to the use of colloquialisms in some of the items, and to the differing nature of re...
Semisolid Nickel Sulfate Filter

The preparation and properties of a semisolid nickel sulfate-sorbitol complex are described. The absorbance curve of the complex corresponds closely with that of an approximately saturated solution of hydrated nickel sulfate in water with the advantage of a two-fold increase in absorbancy index at the peak absorption. Used as a filter component it eliminates the undesirable properties of a liquid filter. A freshly made 3.5-mm thickness of complex had an average transmittance at 2850 A of 75% which showed a slight decrease after three years. An appreciable loss of transmittance after nine years arises from the development of an absorption band at 2850 A. The relationship of this band with a temperature-sensitive band in water solutions of pure nickel sulfate is discussed. The filter remains visually clear indicating that the complex has not crystallized in nine years.
924 DIMINISHED T-LYMPHOCYTE COLONY FORMING CAPACITY OF HUMAN CORD BLOOD CELLS

Some aspects of cell-mediated immunity in newborns are normal while others are reported to be altered. We have evaluated cord blood mononuclear cells (MC) for their capacity to form T-lymphocyte colonies when stimulated with PHA. Compared to values obtained from blood MC from 15 normal adults, cord blood MC from 25 subjects demonstrated decreased colony formation (1351 ± 644 versus 592 ± 501, p < 0.05). This diminished colony forming capacity was not associated with impaired responsivenss to PHA nor to excessive suppressor cell activity. Depletion of adherent cells reduced cord blood MC colony formation by 39% (411 ± 186 versus 251 ± 196) while not affecting lymphocyte proliferation in liquid culture (233,294 cpm versus 279,171 cpm). Irradiation of cord blood cells with 125 R reduced colony formation by 78% (279 ± 139 versus 56 ± 67). Lymphocyte proliferation again was not affected. In contrast, the colony forming capacity of adult MC was not altered by either adherent cell depletion or irradiation. These results indicate that the progenitor cells of T-lymphocyte colonies in cord blood have distinct biologic characteristics when compared to colony progenitors present in normal adult blood. This assay may prove to be useful in our efforts to understand the differentiation of T-cell function in man.
Degenerate conical emissions in atomic-sodium vapor

Degenerate conical emissions that appear in laser-pumped atomic sodium have been reported. The cones appear for both single- and double-pump geometries. The nonlinear medium is a small, high-density sodium-seeded flame. Earlier work that relates the cones to the process of degenerate phase conjugation is extended. The analysis for the single-pump phenomenon is formally related to amplified spontaneous emission. The double-pump case is analogous to a distributed-feedback laser. Theory and experiment are presented and discussed.
ON THE METHODS, RATIONALE AND UNANTICIPATED CONSEQUENCES OF SOVIET ATHEISTIC “UPBRINGING”∗

∗ I wish to thank Professor George Z. F. Bereday and his Seminar on the Sociology of Russian Education for their comments on an earlier draft of this paper
Transgenic overexpression of granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor in the lung prevents hyperoxic lung injury.

Granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) plays an important role in pulmonary homeostasis, with effects on both alveolar macrophages and alveolar epithelial cells. We hypothesized that overexpression of GM-CSF in the lung would protect mice from hyperoxic lung injury by limiting alveolar epithelial cell injury. Wild-type C57BL/6 mice and mutant mice in which GM-CSF was overexpressed in the lung under control of the SP-C promoter (SP-C-GM mice) were placed in >95% oxygen. Within 6 days, 100% of the wild-type mice had died, while 70% of the SP-C-GM mice remained alive after 10 days in hyperoxia. Histological assessment of the lungs at day 4 revealed less disruption of the alveolar wall in SP-C-GM mice compared to wild-type mice. The concentration of albumin in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid after 4 days in hyperoxia was significantly lower in SP-C-GM mice than in wild-type mice, indicating preservation of alveolar epithelial barrier properties in the SP-C-GM mice. Alveolar fluid clearance was preserved in SP-C-GM mice in hyperoxia, but decreased significantly in hyperoxia-exposed wild-type mice. Staining of lung tissue for caspase 3 demonstrated increased apoptosis in alveolar wall cells in wild-type mice in hyperoxia compared to mice in room air. In contrast, SP-C-GM mice exposed to hyperoxia demonstrated only modest increase in alveolar wall apoptosis compared to room air. Systemic treatment with GM-CSF (9 μg/kg/day) during 4 days of hyperoxic exposure resulted in decreased apoptosis in the lungs compared to placebo. In studies using isolated murine type II alveolar epithelial cells, treatment with GM-CSF greatly reduced apoptosis in response to suspension culture. In conclusion, overexpression of GM-CSF enhances survival of mice in hyperoxia; this effect may be explained by preservation of alveolar epithelial barrier function and fluid clearance, at least in part because of reduction in hyperoxia-induced apoptosis of cells in the alveolar wall.
Transition-metal mediated heteroatom removal by reactions of FeL+ [L=O, C4H6, c-C5H6, c-C5H5, C6H6, C5H4(=CH2)] with furan, thiophene, and pyrrole in the gas phase

Reactions of Fe(+) and FeL(+) [L=O, C4H6, c-C5H6, C5H5, C6H6, C5H4(=CH2)] with thiophene, furan, and pyrrole in the gas phase by using Fourier transform mass spectrometry are described. Fe(+), Fe(C5H5)(+), and FeC6H 6 (+) yield exclusive rapid adduct formation with thiophene, furan, and pyrrole. In addition, the iron-diene complexes [FeC4H 6 (+) and Fe(c-C5H6)(+)], as well as FeC5H4(=CH2)(+) and FeO(+), are quite reactive. The most intriguing reaction is the predominant direct extrusion of CO from furan by FeC4H6 (+), Fe(c-C5H6)(+), and FeC5H4(=CH2)(+). In addition, FeC4H 6 (+) and Fe(c-C5H6)(+) cause minor amounts of HCN extrusion from pyrrole. Mechanisms are presented for these CO and HCN extrusion reactions. The absence of CS elimination from thiophene may be due to the higher energy requirements than those for CO extrusion from furan or HCN extrusion from pyrrole. The dominant reaction channel for reaction of Fe(c-C5H6)(+) with pyrrole and thiophene is hydrogen-atom displacement, which implies D(O)(Fa(N5H5)(+)-C4H4X)>D(O)(Fe(C5H5)(+)-H)=46±5 kcal mol(-1). D(O)(Fe(+)-C4H4S) and D(O)(Fe(+)-C4H5N)=D(O)(Fe(+)-C4H6)=48±5 kcal mol(-1). Finally, 55±5 kcal mol(-1)=D(O)(Fe(+)-C6H6)>D(O)(Fe(+)-C4H4O)>D(O)(Fe(+)-C2H4)=39.9±1.4 kcal mol(-1). FeO(+) reacts rapidly with thiophene, furan, and pyrrole to yield initial loss of CO followed by additional neutral losses. D(O)(Fe(+)-CS)>D(O)(Fe(+)-C4H4S)≈48±5 kcal mol(-1) and D(O)(Fe(+)-C4H5N)≈48±5 kcal mol(-1)>D(O)(Fe(+)-HCN)>D(O)(Fe(+)-C2H4)=39.9±1.4 kcal mil(-1).
Cytoplasmic inheritance and intragenomic conflict

Abstract The differing inheritance patterns of cytoplasmic genes and the sex chromosomes from the Mendelian autosomal patterns can be used to divide the genome into fractions whose defining rule is that the fitness of all genes in a set is maximized in the same way. Each set will be selected to modify the phenotype of the organism in a way which maximally propagates the genes comprising the set, and hence in ways inconsistent with the other sets which comprise the total genome. The coexistence of such multiple sets in the same genome creates intragenomic conflict. Evidence is presented in which the fitness of cytoplasmic and other non-autosomal genetic sets are increased at the expense of the autosomal genetic set. The relationship of such intragenomic conflict to the evolution of anisogamy, dioecy, skewed sex ratios, differential male mortality, systems of sex determination, and altruism is discussed.
Testosterone Treatment Enhances Regional Brain Perfusion in Hypogonadal Men

The positive effect of testosterone replacement therapy on psychosocial well-being in hypogonadal men has been demonstrated by various psychometric tests. However, there is no report available that objectively demonstrates the effect of testosterone on the function of the central nervous system in men. In this report we studied cerebral perfusion in seven hypogonadal men on testosterone replacement therapy. The blood perfusion to the central nervous system was assessed using single-photon emission-computed tomography. 99 mTc-hexamethyl-propylene-amine oxime crosses the blood brain barrier and localizes in brain tissue, depending on the intensity of the local blood flow. Psychosocial well-being was assessed with an Androgen Deficiency in Aging Men questionnaire. The study demonstrated that testosterone replacement enhanced cerebral perfusion in midbrain and superior frontal gyrus (Brodman area 8) at 3–5 wk of treatment. At 12–14 wk the study continued to show increased perfusion in midbrain in addition to ...
Coenzyme Q10 levels in Prader-Willi syndrome: comparison with obese and non-obese subjects

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an essential component of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and an important scavenger of reactive oxygen species. Low levels are found in individuals with reduced energy expenditure, cardiac and skeletal muscle dysfunction, and mitochondrial disorders, many of these manifestations are seen in individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). In addition, CoQ10 supplementation frequently is given to individuals with this syndrome. To determine if CoQ10 levels are decreased in PWS, we studied plasma CoQ10 levels in 16 subjects with PWS, 13 with obesity of unknown cause, and 15 subjects without obesity but of similar age and compared with body composition. Plasma CoQ10 levels were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), using several statistical approaches in subjects with PWS (0.45 +/- 0.16 microg/ml), compared to subjects without obesity (0.93 +/- 0.56 microg/ml), but not different from subjects with obesity (0.73 +/- 0.53 microg/ml). When plasma CoQ10 was normalized relative to cholesterol, triglyceride, and creatinine levels and fat and lean mass [determined by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)] in the subjects with either PWS or obesity, no significant differences were observed. However, a lower muscle mass was found in the PWS subjects.