cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of coronary calcification with electron-beam computed tomography: Evaluation of interexamination reproducibility and comparison of three image-acquisition protocols

Abstract The purpose of this investigation was to determine the variability of electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT) measurement of coronary calcification by using two commonly employed image-acquisition protocols and to compare this variability with that of a new image-acquisition protocol. We performed three EBCT scans within 15 minutes on each of 324 consecutive high-risk, asymptomatic subjects participating in an ongoing epidemiologic research investigation. Subjects were divided into three groups: group 1 ( n = 175) received two scans with a standard 20-slice, 3 mm slice thickness image-acquisition protocol and a third scan with the new 20-slice, 6 mm slice thickness protocol; group 2 ( n = 77) received two scans with a new 6 mm slice thickness image-acquisition protocol and a third scan with a standard 20-slice, 3 mm slice thickness protocol; group 3 ( n = 72) received two scans with a 30-slice, 3 mm slice thickness image-acquisition protocol and a third scan with a 20-slice, 6 mm slice thickness protocol. Calcium score, calcium mass estimate, and calcium volume estimate were determined for each scan. We compared retest variability of calcium measurements for each of the three image-acquisition protocols. The variability of the new 6 mm slice thickness protocol was significantly lower than that of either the 20-slice 3 mm slice thickness protocol ( p = 0.009) or the 30-slice 3 mm slice thickness protocol ( p = 0.02) for measurement of calcium score, mass, or volume. Retest reproducibility for all three image-acquisition protocols was low; however, the 20-slice 6 mm slice thickness protocol gave reproducibility superior to either of the 3 mm slice thickness protocols. Variability of absolute indices increased, and variability of relative indices decreased as the value of these indices increased. EBCT is not sufficiently reproducible to allow serial quantitation of coronary calcium in individual patients over relatively short periods (
Rapid determination of trace amounts of selenium (IV), nitrite, and nitrate by high-pressure liquid chromatography using 2,3-diaminonaphthalene☆

Abstract Selenite, nitrite, and nitrate ions have been determined spectrophotometrically and fluorometrically using the reagent 2,3-diaminonaphthalene and high-pressure liquid chromatography. A fluorometric detector was constructed for the HPLC systems. The developed procedures were applied to the analysis of water and biological materials.
Emerging contexts for science education: embedding a forensic science game in a virtual world

Advancements in technology are transforming the educational landscape at a rapid pace, impacting educators, students, and researchers. In particular, educators are increasingly using computer-based games as learning environments with a focus on education over entertainment. The emerging phenomenon of serious gaming requires new approaches to serve the growing number of people using them and to better understand their effectiveness, impact, and the challenges they pose. Serious games offer fertile ground for studying the interactions among people, technology, and information (the core components in information science). In this paper, we describe an approach for integrating an existing forensic science game into a virtual world for adolescents known as Whyville. We explain the rationale in our approach, the infrastructure involved in embedding a game in a virtual world, the challenges we faced, and the lessons learned. A total of 2,206 people played the game throughout the 35 days it was available. The results of the players' survey responses and comments on how they explored this information space are analyzed. Our approach offers an interesting glimpse of how people between the ages of 11 and 18 explore a science game hosted within a virtual world.
An immobilized and reusable Cu(I) catalyst for metal ion-free conjugation of ligands to fully deprotected oligonucleotides through click reaction.

Chelation of Cu(I) ions to an immobilized hydrophilic tris(triazolylmethyl)amine chelator on a solid support allowed synthesis of RNA oligonucleotide conjugates from completely deprotected alkyne-oligonucleotides. No oligonucleotide strand degradation or metal ion contamination was observed. Furthermore, use of the immobilized copper(I) ion overcame regioselectivity issues associated with strain-promoted copper-free azide–alkyne cycloaddition.
Surgical Landmarks in Trabecular Surgerky

Clinical and histologic studies in 40 eyes of 35 patients with chronic open-angle glaucoma or chronic angle-closure glaucoma operated by various types of "trabeculectomies" were assessed to evaluate whether success was correlated with the surgical approach or with the presence of trabecular tissue in the pathologic specimen. It was clearly demonstrated that it is not necessary to localize or enter Schlemm's canal in order to perform successful trabeculectomies; it is not necessary to operate posterior to the scleral spur; and it is not necessary to excise either Schlemm's canal or trabecular tissue to achieve success. In essence, trabeculectomies primarily function as fistulizing operations carried out under scleral flaps substituting a scleral-conjunctival barrier to aqueous flow rather than the conjunctival barrier alone provided by standard glaucoma operations. This greater obstruction explains the absence of shallow chambers, the reduced incidence of polycystic bleb formation and, perhaps, an avoidance of long-term complications that often result from these two factors.
Dynamic compaction of titanium aluminides by explosively generated shock waves: Experimental and materials systems

Different approaches to compact cylinders of titanium aluminide powders by explosively generated shock waves were explored. Two basic compositions of the titanium aluminide powders produced by the rapid solidification rate (RSR) technique were used: Ti-21 wt pct Nb-14 wt pct Al and Ti-30.9 wt pct Al-14.2 wt pct Nb. A double-tube design utilizing a flyer tube was used in all experiments. Experimental parameters that were varied were initial temperature, explosive quantity, and explosive detonation velocity. The major problem encountered with shock consolidation of titanium aluminides was cracking. Titanium aluminide powders were also mechanically blended with niobium powders in one case and elemental mixtures of aluminum and titanium powders in the other case. Enhanced bonding and decreased cracking were observed in both cases. In the former case, the addition of niobium powder provided a ductile binder medium which assisted in consolidation. In the latter case, due to the additional heat generated and melting produced by the shock-induced reactions between Ti and Al, significant improvements in bonding of the titanium aluminide powders were observed.
Nonlocal effects in classical and quantum theories

Abstract Quantum effects of electromagnetic potentials are analyzed further. It is shown that other theories, both classical and quantum mechanical, exhibit analogous effects. Examples from classical general relativity, Yang-Mills theory, and quantum field theory are discussed. It is concluded that effects of this kind are not necessarily quantum mechanical in nature and not necessarily related to the appearance of non-gauge-invariant potentials in the formulation of the theory.
Genetics of sex determination in flowering plants

Although most flowering plant species are hermaphrodites, there are still a large number of species with unisexual flowers. Classical geneticists identified the genes that distinguish the sexes in many species, but, until recently, nothing was known about the molecular mechanisms involved. Knowledge of the genes that control floral organ identity in a broad range of angiosperms has now allowed detailed comparative expression studies. Intriguingly, the sex-related differences indicate that the mechanism of sex determination is not the same in all species. In addition, genes that affect the sexual expression of flowers have been cloned from maize, and the sequences of these indicate that they are involved in hormone metabolism.
A Tao of Narrative: Dynamic Splicing of Teacher Stories.

AbstractIn this article, I explore a cross‐cultural narrative inquiry method through a narrative inquiry about the process of reconstruction of five teacher stories. With dramatic, different cultural backgrounds, the five narrative inquirers—four teacher‐researchers and myself—recovered and reconstructed our teacher stories by telling and living, retelling and reliving them in our 2‐year life experience research. We simulated the interaction of teacher storytelling that originated in our multicultural teacher education classes. In pairs, we took equal turns to listen to and tell stories. We suspended our preconceived judgments about one another's cultures while listening to individual stories, and we resonated with our own stories. We changed partners periodically so that each one had a chance to work with everyone else. Despite our cultural differences, we bonded as friends, our teacher stories included one another's stories, and we multiplied and compounded our teacher stories while retelling and relivi...
Shoulder arthroplasty in hemophilic arthropathy.

Background Currently there is little information available on shoulder arthroplasty in patients with painful hemophilic arthropathy. The purpose of this study was to report the results of shoulder arthroplasty in a series of patients, many with long-term follow-up. Methods The departmental database was queried for shoulder arthroplasties done in patients with painful hemophilic arthropathy from 1977 to 2007. Seven shoulder arthroplasties (6 patients) were followed clinically for an average 13.8 years (range, 33-323 months). Results Pain relief was achieved in 5 patients (6 shoulders). Average postoperative elevation was 131°. Average postoperative external rotation was 40°. Average postoperative internal rotation was to lumbar 4. Based on the modified Neer score there were 2 excellent, 4 satisfactory, and 1 unsatisfactory results. None of the shoulders required revision or reoperation. One patient developed a transient brachial plexus neuropraxia which resolved. Conclusion The results of shoulder arthroplasty in hemophiliacs with painful shoulder arthropathy are moderate and require significant preoperative planning and the support of a hematologist.
Corrosion of Copper-Based Materials in Irradiated Moist air Systems

The atmospheric corrosion of oxygen-free copper (CDA-102), 70/30 copper-nickel (CDA-715), and 7% aluminum bronze (CDA-613) in an irradiated moist air environment was investigated. Experiments were performed in both dry and 40% RH (@90{degree}C) air at temperatures of 90 and 150{degree}C. Initial corrosion rates were determined based on a combination of weight gain and weight loss measurements. Corrosion products observed were identified. These experiments support efforts by the Yucca Mountain Project (YMP) to evaluate possible metallic barrier materials for nuclear waste containers. 8 refs., 1 fig., 2 tabs.
A 39-Year-Old Man With HIV-Associated Lipodystrophy

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated lipodystrophy refers to fat accumulation, also known as lipohypertrophy, and fat wasting, also known as lipoatrophy. Both conditions can be very disturbing to patients and have been associated with metabolic disturbances such as insulin resistance and hyperlipidemias. The prevalence of HIV-associated lipodystrophy ranges from 6% to 69% in the medical literature. Although no clear associations have been made between specific drugs and HIV lipohypertrophy, stavudine and zidovudine have been implicated in the development of HIV lipoatrophy. The case of Mr B, a 39-year-old man with HIV-associated lipodystrophy whose facial changes are a cause of significant distress, highlights the need for clinicians to be attuned to the psychological impact that lipodystrophy can have on patients, especially because it may serve as a disincentive to adherence to antiretroviral drug regimens, resulting in an increased risk of developing viral resistance.
Ultra-Low Photon Defect Diode-Pumped Cryo-Cooled Er:YAG Laser

Efficient ultra-low-photon-defect resonantly diode-pumped Er:YAG cryogenically-cooled laser is demonstrated for the first time. Quasi-CW diode pumping by InGaAsP/InP 10-diode bar stack (without spectral narrowing) was implemented. Laser performance at ~80°K in this first experiment was found to be 71.5% efficient (output power versus power absorbed in the cavity mode, slope). Er:YAG laser output variations with the gain medium temperature was investigated. Maximum quasi-CW power of ~65 W was achieved by optimization the gain medium operating temperature. and to photon number splitting attacks, thus resulting in a high efficiency in terms of distilled secret bits per qubit. After having successfully tested the feasibility of the system [3], we are currently developing a fully integrated and automated prototype within the SECOQC project [4]. We present the latest results using the prototype. We also discuss the issue of the photon detection, which still remains the bottleneck for QKD.
Structure and regulation of phospholipase D.

Phosphar:S~:~oline-specific phos>holipase D (PLDs) are phosphodi‘stemses that catalyse the hydrolysis If phosphatidylcholine (PC) to pmjute phosphatidic acid (PA) and :holine. Diverse stimuli mcreasePLD activity in many cells and PA, or a netabolite of this lipid, is probably he orimarv mediator of PLD-initia , ited cell signalltng. Investigations of PLD regulation irt oitro suggest that .hese enzymes may play roles in nhacellular protein trafficking and nitogenic signaIling processes conrolled by members of the ADPribosylatibn factor (ARFj anJ Rho :amilies of monomeric G uroteins. l’he identification of genes encoding veast and human PLD enzymes xomises to provide the molecular tools necessy this reaction concurrmtly generates Ivso-Dhomhatidic acid. which can e of receptor-mechated PLD activation has been presumed to be the plasma membrane there are convincing reports of PLD activities associated with the nucleus and Co& apparat&?
Retinocortical conduction time in diabetics with abnormal pattern reversal electroretinograms and visual evoked potentials.

Clinically evident retinal vascular disease in patients with diabetes mellitus may be preceded by an increase in visual evoked potential latency in electrophysiologic testing. This increase may indicate either retinal or optic nerve dysfunction. To determine the origin of the latency increase we initiated a cross-sectional study of simultaneous pattern-reversal electroretinograms and visual evoked potentials. We recorded transient (3.8 reversals/second) pattern electroretinograms and visual evoked potentials using both 15' and 60' high-contrast black-white checks. Fifty-five diabetic patients (34 with no retinoapthy and 21 with background retinopathy) and 34 age-matched visual normals (controls) were tested. Group data in diabetics showed significant latency increases in both tests, but not significant differences in retinocortical conduction time were noted. These results suggest that the increases in visual evoked potential latency exhibited by diabetic patients with little or no retinopathy usually reflect altered retinal function rather than optic neuropathy. Two patients with background retinopathy exhibited retinocortical conduction times that exceeded the mormal mean by more than two standard deviations, suggesting that optic neuropathy may occasionally occur in diabetic patients with background retinopathy.
98 GLYCOGENIC EFFECTS OF SmC, MSA AND EGF IN FETAL RAT HEPATOCYTES

The role of peptide growth factors in the regulation of fetal metabolism is poorly understood. Since somatomedin-C (SmC) and multiplication-stimulating activity (MSA) have insulin-like actions in postnatal tissues, we have compared the effects of these growth factors on glycogen metabolism in cultured fetal rat hepatocytes with those of insulin and epidermal growth factor (EGF). SmC (25-375 ng/ml) stimulated dose-dependent increases in 14C-glucose incorporation into glycogen (14-73%) and total cellular glycogen content (11-34%) during 4 hours of incubation. MSA and insulin also stimulated glycogenesis but with potencies only 4.5 and 6.7% that of SmC, respectively. The concentrations of SmC, MSA and insulin which caused half-maximal stimulation of 14C-glucose incorporation were 6.7 nM, 150 nM and 100 nM, respectively. The dose-response curves of SmC, MSA and insulin were parallel and their maximal effects were not additive, suggesting a common mechanism of action. In contrast, EGF (2.5-150 ng/ml) stimulated glycogen synthesis but its dose-response curve was not parallel to that of SmC and its maximal effect was only 40% that of SmC or insulin. In addition, EGF and insulin had additive effects at maximal concentrations. These findings suggest that SmC and EGF have direct anabolic effects on fetal carbohydrate metabolism. The glycogenic actions of insulin and MSA in fetal liver may be mediated through binding to a receptor which also binds SmC. Grants HD07447 and HD06301.
Effects of Ceruloplasmin on Superoxide-Dependent Iron Release from Ferritin and Lipid Peroxidation

Ceruloplasmin (CP) effectively inhibited superoxide and ferritin-dependent peroxidation of phospholipid liposomes, using xanthine oxidase or gamma irradiation of water as sources of superoxide. In addition, CP inhibited superoxide-dependent mobilization of iron from ferritin. suggesting that CP inhibited lipid peroxidation by decreasing the availability of iron from ferritin. CP also exhibited some superoxide scavenging activity as evidenced by its inhibition of superoxide-dependent cytochrome c reduction. However, superoxide scavenging by CP did not quantitatively account for its inhibitory effects on iron release. The effects of CP on iron-catalyzed lipid peroxidation in systems containing exogenously added ferrous iron was also investigated. CP exhibited prooxidant and antioxidant effects; CP stimulated at lower concentrations, reached a maximum. and inhibited at higher concentrations. However. the addition of apoferritin inhibited CP and Fe(II)-catalyzed lipid peroxidation at all concentrations of CP....
Assessment of Kegel pelvic muscle exercise performance after brief verbal instruction

Forty-seven women had urethral pressure profile determinations performed at rest and during a Kegel pelvic muscle contraction, after brief standardized verbal instruction. Twenty-three (49%) had an ideal Kegel effort—a significant increase in the force of urethral closure without an appreciable Valsalva effort. Twelve subjects (25%) displayed a Kegel technique that could potentially promote incontinence. Age, parity, weight, estrogen deprivation, prior continence surgery or hysterectomy, and passive urethral function did not predict a successful effort. We concluded that simple verbal or written instruction does not represent adequate preparation for a patient who is about to start a Kegel exercise program.
Morality, Cosmopolitanism, or Academic Attainment? Discourses on “Quality” and Urban Chinese‐Only‐Children's Claims to Ideal Personhood

The term “quality” (suzhi) has become a ubiquitous part of Chinese popular discourses and the focus of Chinese educational campaigns. Amorphous, multivalent, and widely used, the term “high quality” represents a kind of ideal personhood associated with urban modernity. Based on 32 months of participant observation conducted in schools and homes in a Chinese city between 1997 and 2006, this paper examines how and why urban Chinese only-children with various different strengths in morality, cosmopolitanism, and academic attainment chose, defended, and promoted definitions of quality that favored their own strengths.
African influence on culture and music in Dubai

This article has two major sections. The first section provides a historical review, introduces the history of Dubai, and describes the power dynamics and social interactions between its tribal population and slaves of African descent. Further this section discusses and analyses the social and cultural assimilation of African slaves in the host society. The second section investigates the role music and rituals played in the lives of slaves. It specifically illustrates the merger of African music and lyrics with Gulf poetry to produce the hybrid known as alnahmah, a sea chant. This section reveals how the different African musical genres and rituals functioned to sustain the slaves' existence. Finally, this section links spirit possession to slavery as a form of slave resistance and a method of coping with enslavement. The conclusion includes a discussion of topics addressing the historical links and contemporary connections between Dubai society and the music of African descendants. Despite the prolonged silence around the issue of slavery and its legacy, through music and rituals Gulf African slaves were able to leave an indelible mark that ultimately documents, records and preserves their experience of enslavement.
Assessing the safety of del Nido cardioplegia solution in adult congenital cases.

Purpose:del Nido cardioplegia solution (CPS) has been successfully used for myocardial protection in the pediatric population. We propose this solution can be used safely in adult congenital patien...
Slowflow fingerprints of urban hydrology

Summary Urban streamflow is commonly characterized by increased peak discharges and runoff volumes. Slowflow integrates altered storage and transit times affecting urban recharge and drainage, resulting in a highly variable indeterminate urban slowflow response. This study introduces the use of multiple baseflow metrics to characterize and interpret the dominant processes driving urban slowflow response. Slowflow characteristics derived from USGS streamflow records are used to quantify the patterns of hydrologic alteration across the rural-to-urban landuse gradient in the Piedmont watersheds of the Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES), an NSF Urban Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) site in the Baltimore Metropolitan area. We interpret multimetric slowflow response from a top-down perspective, learning from data, in order to draw dominant process inferences from observed slowflow. When characterized by a single slowflow metric such as the baseflow index, urban slowflow response can exhibit equifinality and is not reliably predicted a priori. Multimetric analysis quantifies distinct differences in urban slowflow response, framing testable hypotheses and refined experimental designs to elucidate the dominant processes driving urban slowflow. Multimetric fingerprinting offers a consistent framework for interpreting urban slowflow response, constrained by the equifinality of single slowflow metrics and the inherent limitations on process inferences that can be drawn from gauged streamflow alone. Heterogeneity of observed slowflow belies the simple paradigm of a single consistent type of urban slowflow response. In contrast, we suggest a conceptual typology of urban slowflow response, framing a conceptual mixing model of dominant process endpoints that shape the slowflow fingerprints of urban hydrology.
Meta‐analytic methodology and inferences about the efficacy of formative assessment

In a recent article published in EM:IP, Kingston and Nash report on the results of a meta-analysis on the efficacy of formative assessment. They conclude that the average effect of formative assessment on student achievement is about .20 SD units. This would seem to dispel the myth that effects between .40 and .70 can be attributed to formative assessment. They also find that there is considerable variability in effect sizes across studies, and that only the content area in which the treatment is situated explains a significant proportion of study variability. However, there are issues in the meta-analytic methodology employed by the authors that make their findings somewhat equivocal. This commentary focuses on four methodological concerns about the Kingston and Nash meta-analysis: (1) the approach taken to select studies for inclusion, (2) the application of study inclusion criteria, (3) the extent to which the effect sizes being combined are biased, and (4) the relationship between effect size magnitude and characteristics of outcome measures. After examining these issues in the context of the Kingston and Nash review, it appears that considerable uncertainty remains about the effect that formative assessment practices have on student achievement.
Tuba, a Novel Protein Containing Bin/Amphiphysin/Rvs and Dbl Homology Domains, Links Dynamin to Regulation of the Actin Cytoskeleton

Tuba is a novel scaffold protein that functions to bring together dynamin with actin regulatory proteins. It is concentrated at synapses in brain and binds dynamin selectively through four N-terminal Src homology-3 (SH3) domains. Tuba binds a variety of actin regulatory proteins, including N-WASP, CR16, WAVE1, WIRE, PIR121, NAP1, and Ena/VASP proteins, via a C-terminal SH3 domain. Direct binding partners include N-WASP and Ena/VASP proteins. Forced targeting of the C-terminal SH3 domain to the mitochondrial surface can promote accumulation of F-actin around mitochondria. A Dbl homology domain present in the middle of Tuba upstream of a Bin/amphiphysin/Rvs (BAR) domain activates Cdc42, but not Rac and Rho, and may thus cooperate with the C terminus of the protein in regulating actin assembly. The BAR domain, a lipid-binding module, may functionally replace the pleckstrin homology domain that typically follows a Dbl homology domain. The properties of Tuba provide new evidence for a close functional link between dynamin, Rho GTPase signaling, and the actin cytoskeleton.
Surface Cars Spectroscopy Using Optical Waveguides

Using the planar optical waveguide geometry, a CARS spectrum of a 25 A film of TiO 2 on a Nb205 waveguide has been observed. Spectra of monolayers of phenol and pyridine adsorbed on ZnO surfaces also have been observed under high vacuum conditions. When most of the CARS contribution from a waveguide is eliminated by an interference condition, submonolayer quantities are detectable.
Evidence for organically associated iron in nearshore pore fluids

The role of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in the speciation of trace metals in natural waters is poorly understood1–3. Although dissolved organic matter–iron associations have been observed in freshwater systems4–6, it has been thought that DOM–iron species are not significant in saline waters7. Yet recent studies have suggested that iron–DOM interactions in the pore waters of anoxic marine sediments may be important8,9. The possibility of organically associated trace metals in anoxic water has been used to explain why metal concentrations are higher than those predicted by sulphide-mineral equilibria10,11. We present here data that indicate that strong iron–DOM associations do occur in the anoxic pore waters of nearshore marine sediments and that both the total dissolved iron and organically associated iron change seasonally.
An example of use of SNAPSim, a software package for simulating Dark Energy missions

We show an example of use of SNAPsim, a software package intended to simulate dark energy missions. We point out how our software, though designed with the proposed SNAP mission in mind, can be used for simulating a generic mission; we show this by simulating an ongoing mission. We focus on one of the most important sources of systematic error in such missions: the effect that a zero point filter calibration uncertainty has on the final precision of the cosmological parameters. We show that in the presence of calibration uncertainties a significant reduction in the error of the cosmological parameters can be achieved if all the distance to the Supernovae observed by the mission are fitted simultaneously.
Extensive neodymium-yag photoirradiation of the prostate in men with obstructive prostatism

Abstract Objective. To determine if high-dosage, extensive photoirradiation of the prostate could be used safely in men with large prostate glands and obstruction, coupled with acceptable clinical results. Methods. Treatment of 25 men consecutively with eight quadrant photoirradiation of the prostate. Treatment of the next 25 men with high-dosage energy up to 109,000 joules. Simultaneous transrectal needle biopsy of the prostate performed on all 50 men after treatment. Patients evaluated with four- to sixteen-month follow-up. Results. Success rate of 86 percent on all patients with mean American Urological Association (AUA) symptom score decreasing by nineteen points and mean peak uroflow rate increasing by 7.9 cc. Needle biopsy after high-dosage laser therapy shows no laser effect on the peripheral zone. Conclusions. High-dosage laser energy can be used safely, and allows us to treat large prostates with excellent clinical results and minimal complications.
Child sexual abuse and disordered eating: The mediating role of impulsive and compulsive tendencies

OBJECTIVE: Child sexual abuse (CSA) victimization has been identified as one of many environmental risk factors for the later development of disordered eating, and empirical evidence suggests that the relationship between CSA victimization and disordered eating may be explained by a number of mediators. Indeed, it appears that CSA victimization may promote dysregulated behavioral control (i.e., impulsivity and compulsivity) as coping strategies for some survivors, which may in turn promote disordered eating behaviors, but no research to date has examined this relationship empirically in a single model. Thus, the current study examined impulsivity and compulsivity as mediators of the relationship between CSA victimization and distinct disordered eating behaviors. METHOD: Using structural equation modeling, this mediated relationship was explored in regards to the severity of self-reported CSA victimization and two main domains of disordered eating behaviors (i.e., binge eating, compensatory behaviors) in a large undergraduate nonclinical sample of men and women (N = 649). RESULTS: Impulsivity and compulsivity together accounted for the effect of CSA victimization on binge eating (i.e., eating to excess) and compensatory behaviors (i.e., maladaptive behaviors meant to control weight; e.g., purging, laxative use). Further, compulsivity was a stronger mediator than impulsivity of relationships of CSA victimization with binge eating and compensatory behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that the sequelae of CSA victimization may involve different forms of behavioral control strategies, which may in turn manifest differentially in symptoms of disordered eating. More emphasis should be paid to the role of compulsive tendencies and pathways from sexual abuse to compulsivity when developing theories and treatments for eating pathology.
Administration of human chorionic gonadotropin to suckled beef cows before ovulation synchronization and fixed-time insemination: Replacement of gonadotropin-releasing hormone with human chorionic gonadotropin

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate whether hCG administered 7 d before initiating the CO-Synch + controlled internal drug release (CIDR) ovulation synchronization protocol (Exp. 1 and 2), or replacing GnRH with hCG at the time of AI (Exp. 1), would improve fertility to a fixed-time AI (TAI) in suckled beef cows. In addition, the effects of hCG on follicle dynamics, corpus luteum development, and concentrations of progesterone (P4) were evaluated. In Exp. 1, cows were stratified by days postpartum, age, and parity and assigned randomly to a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of 4 treatments: 1) cows received 100 µg of GnRH at CIDR insertion (d -7) and 25 mg of PGF(2α) at CIDR removal (d 0), followed in 64 to 68 h by a TAI plus a second injection of GnRH at TAI (CG; n = 29); 2) same as CG but the second injection of GnRH at the time of insemination was replaced by hCG (CH; n = 28); 3) same as CG, but cows received hCG 7 d (d -14) before CIDR insertion (HG; n = 28); and 4) same as HG, but cows received hCG 7 d (d -14) before CIDR insertion (HH; n = 29). Pregnancy rates were 52, 41, 59, and 38% for GG, GH, HG, and HH, respectively. Cows receiving hCG (39%) in place of GnRH at TAI tended (P = 0.06) to have poorer pregnancy rates than those receiving GnRH (56%). Pre-CO-Synch hCG treatment increased (P 1 ng/mL at d -7, increased (P < 0.02) concentration of P4 on d -7, and decreased (P < 0.001) the size of the dominant follicle on d 0 and 3, compared with cows not treated with hCG on d -14. In Exp. 2, cows were stratified based on days postpartum, BCS, breed type, and calf sex and then assigned to the CG (n = 102) or HG (n = 103) treatments. Overall pregnancy rates were 51%, but no differences in pregnancy rates were detected between treatments. Pre-CO-Synch hCG treatment increased (P < 0.05) the percentage of cows cycling on d -7 and increased (P < 0.05) concentrations of P4 on d -7 compared with pre-CO-Synch controls. Therefore, pretreatment induction of ovulation after hCG injection 7 d before initiation of CO-Synch + CIDR protocol failed to enhance pregnancy rates, but replacing GnRH with hCG at the time of AI may reduce pregnancy rates.
DETECTION OF STEROIDS IN PAPER CHROMATOGRAPHY

Summary o 1. Methods for the detection of steroids in paper chromatography have been described and evaluated for 31 compounds. 2. A new method of detection of steroids involving phosphomolybdic acid has been reported. 3. A method using silicotungstic acid has been extended to cover many new compounds.
Quantifying induced electric field strengths during gene transfer to the intact rat vasculature

The application of appropriate electric fields to cells and tissues, termed electroporation, can result in efficient and safe gene transfer. We have shown previously that this approach results in high level gene transfer to and expression in the vasculature of living animals. This paper presents the results of an electric field distribution study of a rat mesenteric vasculature model using the Finite-Element Time-Domain (FETD) technique. A novelty of this work is the use of Debye dispersive dielectric parameters, as the electrical response of biological tissues is inherently frequency-dependent. The results compare fairly well with experimental findings.
The effect of ritonavir on saquinavir plasma concentration is independent of ritonavir dosage: combined analysis of pharmacokinetic data from 97 subjects

Objective To determine the correlation between ritonavir (RTV) dose and the degree of enhancement of saquinavir (SQV) exposure. Methods Combined analysis of pharmacokinetic data at steady state obtained from two open-label, randomized, parallel-group, multiple-dose, single-centre studies involving healthy volunteers. Plasma samples for SQV assay were obtained from 97 healthy subjects following multiple dosing of a range of SQV (400–1800 mg) plus RTV (100–400 mg) dosages for 13–14 days. The pharmacokinetics of SQV were derived by model-independent, noncompartmental methods. Data were analysed by multivariate regression of log transformed Cmin and Cmax (geometric means) of SQV dosage as the dependent variable and independent variables of SQV and RTV dosage. Ritonavir was fitted as both a continuous and a categorical variable. Results There is a strong effect of any dose of RTV on Cmax and Cmin of SQV (P < 0.0001 for both parameters), but no greater effect of higher vs. lower RTV dosages on either parameter (Cmax: P=0.4373; Cmin: P=0.3393). Higher SQV dosage correlates linearly with higher Cmax (P=0.0093) and Cmin (P=0.0010), but the effects of increasing SQV dosages are less than with the addition of any RTV dose. Conclusions RTV enhances SQV concentrations to increase Cmax and Cmin. This effect is similar for RTV dosages of 100–400 mg twice daily. Based on this concept of ‘mini-dose’ RTV, once-daily dosing of 1600 mg SQV/100 mg RTV and twice-daily 1000 mg SQV/100 mg RTV are currently being evaluated in clinical trials.
Spatially resolved surface enhanced second harmonic generation: Theoretical and experimental evidence for electromagnetic enhancement in the near infrared on a laser microfabricated Pt surface

Surface enhanced second harmonic generation (SESHG) has been observed for the first time from a Pt surface in a <10−3 Torr vacuum environment. Both ‘‘smooth,’’ mechanically polished Pt surfaces and rippled Pt microstructures prepared by laser microchemical etching in Cl2(g) were studied with the newly developed technique of SESHG imaging. The etching procedure and the behavior of the Pt surface under the SESHG imaging conditions is reported in detail. The rippled/smooth enhancement factor for SHG excited with 80 ps, 1064 nm pulses from a cw, mode‐locked Nd‐YAG laser focused to a 3.1 μm 1/e2 radius ranges from 4 to 17, in qualitative agreement with theoretical calculations for isolated Pt spheroids.
Biosynthesis of Ethylene

IT is the purpose of the present communication to describe some further results with carbon-14 precursors of ethylene, and to reconcile the pattern which emerges in these investigations using McIntosh apple tissue sections with that of the fungal system, Penicillium digitatum. The procedures have been described previously1–3, and their reliability for measuring 14C-ethylene and carbon dioxide commented on3; they were altered only in the use of a Cary–Tolbert ionization chamber in place of a Bernstein–Ballentine tube for measuring radiation. In the course of these experiments it was noted that alcohol vapour interferes with the assay for ethylene by dissolving in mercuric perchlorate absorbent where a slow acid-catalysed dehydration occurs. For example, when 10 µl. liquid ethanol was added to 20 ml. of mercuric perchlorate reagent, ethylene appeared at a linear rate for at least 6 h, by which time 0.02 per cent of the alcohol had been converted to olefine. Previously, Young et al.9 reported that ethanol was not measured by the mercuric perchlorate manometric procedure, but they apparently took no account of the duration of contact between alcohol and perchlorate, and it should be noted that gas chromatography detects much smaller quantities of vapour than does manometry. In the work recorded here it was determined that a discernible error could occur only if at the end of a collection period in excess of 1 µc. of 14C-ethanol had been formed in the tissue. In experiments with fumarate and acetate this would require that labelled ethanol form at approximately the same rate as 14CO2, and with other compounds ethanol production would greatly have to exceed 14CO2 evolution. Clearly, under the conditions of the assay, the results are not influenced by this factor except when 14C-ethanol itself was administered to the tissue (Table 1), in which case the apparent transfer of label to ethylene must be dismissed as an artefact.
Fluorescent detection of rat parathyroid glands via 5-aminolevulinic acid.

Objective: Anatomic identification of parathyroid glands during surgery is challenging and time consuming. We sought to determine whether 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) could produce parathyroid gland fluorescence to improve their detection in a preclinical model. Methods: Thirty-two rats were administered 0 to 700 mg/kg of 5-ALA by intraperitoneal injection prior to neck exploration under the illumination of a blue light (380–440 nm). Tissue fluorescence was assessed at 1, 2, or 4 hours postinjection and then removed for histologic confirmation of parathyroid tissue. Results: Rat parathyroid glands could not be visualized under ambient light. At dosages of 300 mg/kg or greater, bilateral parathyroid glands were visualized in 18 of 19 rats using blue light illumination. At dosages less than 300 mg/kg, parathyroid gland fluorescence was detected in only 1 of 13 rats. At 2 hours after 5-ALA administration, the net mean intensity of parathyroid gland fluorescence was optimal with a dose of 500 mg/kg. At both 1 and 4 hours after 5-ALA injection, the net mean intensity of parathyroid gland fluorescence was optimal at the highest dose (700 mg/kg) and positively correlated with dosage increases. Conclusion: 5-ALA can be used to selectively detect parathyroid tissue from surrounding tissue in a preclinical model. Our data support the use of this technique in the clinical setting.
The "memory cliff" beyond span in immediate recall.

Immediate recall of sub-span, span length, and supra-span memoranda was tested in 27 normal nursing students. Random series of digits and consonant letters ranging from 5 to 20 items were presented at the rate of 1 per second. Maximum recall occurred with memoranda of approximately span length, with a sharp drop of recall as span was exceeded. Absolute recall of supra-span memoranda remained at a plateau after the initial drop. The use of a special scoring method and analysis of data by relating the results to each individual's span permitted an accurate representation of the drop in recall as span was exceeded and the constancy in recall with supra-span memoranda. It is concluded that for immediate ordered recall maximum information gain occurs for each individual at his span rather than at an arbitrary memorandum length This study indirectly supports the separation of immediate memory and storage mechanisms.
Responsiveness of the SF-36 health survey to changes in visual acuity among patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization.

Abstract *Other members of the subcommittee are: Carol M. Mangione, MD, MSPH (Chair); Eric B. Bass, MD, MPH (Co-Chair); Neil M. Bressler, MD; Li Ming Dong, PhD; Barbara S. Hawkins, PhD; Marta J. Marsh, MS; Paivi H. Miskala, PhD**A listing of all Submacular Surgery Trials Pilot Study investigators and personnel, as well as funding for the Submacular Surgery Trials Pilot Study, appears in: Submacular Surgery Trials Pilot Study Investigators. Submacular Surgery Trials (SST) randomized pilot trial of laser photocoagulation versus surgery for recurrent choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration. I. Ophthalmic outcomes. SST Pilot Study Report Number 1. Am J Ophthalmol 2000;130:387–407. Purpose To report the responsiveness of the SF-36 Health Survey to changes in visual acuity among patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization participating in the Submacular Surgery Trials pilot study. Design Cohort study. Methods Correlation analyses were used to explore relationships at each time point, and linear regression was used to determine the relation between the 2-year changes in SF-36 scores and visual acuity. Results A weak, but statistically significant, association was found between the 2-year changes in both the Physical Component Summary score and the Physical Functioning subscale with changes in visual acuity of the better eye. No association was found between changes in visual acuity and the Mental Component Summary score or the Mental Health subscale. Conclusions The SF-36 summary scales and the individual subscales were minimally responsive to 2-year changes in visual acuity in this subgroup of patients.
Assessing a low-cost accelerometer-based technique to estimate spatial gait parameters of lower-limb prosthesis users.

Background and aim:Inexpensive methods for characterizing lower-limb prosthetic gait allow clinicians to monitor gait quality. This study assessed an established method for estimating step length using a low-cost accelerometer to estimate distance walked in lower-limb prosthesis users and explore the use of subject-specific correction factors.Technique:A three-axis accelerometer was attached to participants using straps. Validity and test–retest reliability of step length was assessed in able-bodied individuals using a motion capture system. Validity of distance walked was assessed with lower-limb prosthesis users. A regression equation was developed for prosthesis users to estimate a correction factor that minimized error.Discussion:The system demonstrated excellent reliability and minimal mean error for both participant groups, but subject-specific correction factors did not provide substantial benefit. Estimate variability was high, suggesting the need for further refinement. Estimating distance walked...
Langmuir turbulence in shallow water. Part 1. Observations

During extended deployment at an ocean observatory off the coast of New Jersey, a bottom-mounted five-beam acoustic Doppler current profiler measured large-scale velocity structures that we interpret as Langmuir circulations filling the entire water column. These circulations are the large-eddy structures of wind-wave-driven turbulent flows that occur episodically when a shallow water column experiences prolonged strong wind forcing. Many observational characteristics agree with former descriptions of Langmuir circulations in deep water. The three-dimensional velocity field reveals quasi-organized structures consisting of pairs of surface-intensified counter-rotating vortices, aligned approximately downwind. Maximum downward velocities are stronger than upward velocities, and the downwelling region of each cell, defined as a pair of vortices, is narrower than the upwelling region. Maximum downward vertical velocity occurs at or above mid-depth, and scales approximately with wind speed. The estimated crosswind scale of cells is roughly 3–6 times their vertical scale, set under these conditions by water depth. The long axis of the cells appears to lie at an angle ∼10 ◦ –20 ◦ to the right of the wind. A major difference from deep-water observations is strong near-bottom intensification of the downwind ‘jets’ found typically centred over downwelling regions. Accessible observational features such as cell morphology and profiles of mean velocities, turbulent velocity variances, and shear stress components are compared with the results of associated large-eddy simulations (reported in Part 2) of shallow water flows driven by surface stress and the Craik–Leibovich vortex forcing generally used to represent generation of Langmuir cells. A particularly sensitive diagnostic for identification of Langmuir circulations as the energy-containing eddies of the turbulent flow is the depth trajectory of invariants of the turbulent stress tensor, plotted in the Lumley ‘triangle’ corresponding to realizable turbulent flows. When Langmuir structures are present in the observations, the Lumley map is distinctly different from that of surface-stress-driven Couette flow, again in agreement with the large-eddy simulations (LES). Unlike the LES, observed velocity fields contain two distinct and significant scales of variability, documented by wavelet analysis of observational records of vertical velocity. Variability with periods of many minutes is that expected from Langmuir cells drifting past the instrument at the slowly time-varying crosswind velocity. Shorter period variability, of the order of 1–2 min, has roughly the observed periodicity of surface wave groups, suggesting a connection with the wave groups themselves and/or the wave breaking associated with them in high wind conditions.