cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mammography pain and discomfort: a cognitive-behavioral perspective

Although some women report having little pain or discomfort during mammography, other women find mammography to be a painful and uncomfortable experience. Cognitive and behavioral factors may influence the perception of pain and discomfort during mammography. This review critically evaluates the research on mammography pain from a cognitive-behavioral perspective. The review is in three sections. The first reviews studies measuring pain and discomfort in women who have recently had mammograms and studies investigating the relative importance of pain and discomfort in influencing women's decisions to have a mammogram. The second section presents a cognitive-behavioral model of mammography pain that is based on theories of behavior and self-regulation developed by Kanfer and Hagerman (1987). The review concludes with a discussion of the implications of the cognitive-behavioral perspective for clinical management and research on mammography pain and discomfort.
Depression, Neuroticism, and Mood-Regulation Expectancies for Engagement and Disengagement Coping Among Cigarette Smokers.

Relapse to cigarette smoking after a quit attempt is often the result of inadequate coping. In a study of 72 cigarette smokers, relationships between neuroticism, depressive symptoms, and the use of engagement and disengagement coping strategies were explored, along with expectancies for the effectiveness of these different types of coping for regulating affect. Depression and neuroticism showed significant positive relationships with disengagement coping strategies (such as withdrawing from the situation) and negative relationships with engagement strategies (such as approaching those involved). In addition, mood-regulation expectancies for coping strategies were closely associated with their projected use. These findings may be helpful in tailoring coping skills training components of smoking cessation treatments.
Paramagnetic Effect in Superconducting Tin, Indium, and Thallium

Measurements have been carried out on the longitudinal magnetization of pure rods in the intermediate state between normal and superconduction. The observed "paramagnetic" flux increase is dependent on the externally sustained current, external magnetic field, and temperature only. The dependence is much the same for the metals studied. There is a threshold current to be exceeded before the flux increase is observed. The threshold is linearly dependent on the external magnetic field; the slope of the threshold curve is the same for the metals studied. The results compare favorably with existing theory, except for the threshold. An upper limit has been placed on the relaxation time for the currents responsible for the flux increase. The effect of the physical purity of the sample has been observed.
Norbinaltorphimine blocks the feeding but not the reinforcing effect of lateral hypothalamic electrical stimulation

The role of central kappa opioid receptors in the regulation of feeding and reward was evaluated using electrical brain stimulation paradigms in combination with the selective kappa antagonist, norbinaltorphimine (nor-BNI). Lateral ventricular injection of 10.0 and 50.0 nmol doses of nor-BNI increased the lateral hypothalamic stimulation frequency threshold for eliciting feeding behavior but had no effect on threshold for self-stimulation in the absence of food. This result is identical to those previously reported for naloxone and antibodies to dynorphin A and suggests that opioid activity is associated with feeding behavior rather than the eliciting brain stimulation. A further similarity between naloxone, dynorphin antiserum, and nor-BNI is their preferential effect on feeding threshold values obtained later, rather than initially, in a post-injection test session. This pattern of threshold elevation is shown to differ from that of the appetite suppressants, amphetamine and phenylpropanolamine, which elevate threshold uniformly throughout a post-injection test. The signature pattern of threshold elevation produced by opioid antagonism is consistent with the hypothesis that opioid activity is involved in the maintenance rather than the initiation of feeding. Specifically, it is hypothesized that a dynorphin A/kappa receptor mechanism is triggered by food taste and sustains feeding behavior by facilitating incentive reward.
Isotope effect on the thermal conductivity of boron nitride nanotubes.

We have measured the temperature-dependent thermal conductivity $\ensuremath{\kappa}(T)$ of individual multiwall boron nitride nanotubes using a microfabricated test fixture that allows direct transmission electron microscopy characterization of the tube being measured. $\ensuremath{\kappa}(T)$ is exceptionally sensitive to isotopic substitution, with a 50% enhancement in $\ensuremath{\kappa}(T)$ resulting for boron nitride nanotubes with 99.5% $^{11}\mathrm{B}$. For isotopically pure boron nitride nanotubes, $\ensuremath{\kappa}$ rivals that of carbon nanotubes of similar diameter.
The Enantiomeric Scaffold Approach to Highly Functionalized 1-Oxadecalines: Enantio- and Regiocontrolled [4+2] Cycloadditions of 5-Alkenyl-η3-Pyranylmolybenum Complexes

TpMo(CO)2(5-alkenyl-η-2,3,4-pyranyl) diene complexes function as excellent chiral scaffolds for the efficient regio- and enantiocontrolled synthesis of highly functionalized 1-oxadecaline derivatives through a novel transition metal-mediated Diels−Alder reaction. Very good to excellent yields and excellent levels of endo selectivity are obtained, and the reaction gives products with complete retention of enantiomeric purity when carried out with chiral, nonracemic scaffolds. A subtle structural modification on the diene (replacement of an H by a trans-CH3 group) leads to a complete change of regiochemistry, which is discussed from a mechanistic point of view. The role of the η3-coordinated TpMo(CO)2 moiety is also critical to the further functionalization of the [4 + 2] cycloadducts, as illustrated by the preparation of 20 variously functionalized 1-oxadecaline derivatives (>98% ee when carried out with high enantiopurity scaffolds).
Mechanism of OMP Decarboxylation in Orotidine 5′-Monophosphate Decarboxylase

Despite extensive experimental and theoretical studies, the detailed catalytic mechanism of orotidine 5′-monophosphate decarboxylase (ODCase) remains controversial. In particular simulation studies using high level quantum mechanics have failed to reproduce experimental activation free energy. One common feature of many previous simulations is that there is a water molecule in the vicinity of the leaving CO2 group whose presence was only observed in the inhibitor bound complex of ODCase/BMP. Various roles have even been proposed for this water molecule from the perspective of stabilizing the transition state and/or intermediate state. We hypothesize that this water molecule is not present in the active ODCase/OMP complex. Based on QM/MM minimum free energy path simulations with accurate density functional methods, we show here that in the absence of this water molecule the enzyme functions through a simple direct decarboxylation mechanism. Analysis of the interactions in the active site indicates multiple...
The effects of exploratory petroleum drilling in the northwest gulf of mexico on trace metal concentrations in near rig sediments and organisms

For a typical offshore petroleum well, 500–1000 t (dry weight excluding cuttings) of drilling fluid solids are discharged into the sea. In this study, concentrations of selected trace elements present in drilling fluids (Ba, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Ni, V), were determined in surface sediments and macroepifauna around a Gulf of Mexico exploratory drilling site before, during, and after drilling operations. Observed significant increases in the levels of Fe in organisms and Ba and Cr in sediments were attributable to drilling discharges. Shrimp, which constitute the largest commercial fishery in the region, were intensively studied. Shrimp collected during the last few days of drilling had abdominal muscle Fe concentrations more than twice those in shrimp sampled before or after drilling. Enhanced Fe solubility (bioavailability) in sea-water, caused by soluble organic chelating agents in the drilling fluids, is the most likely explanation for the observed increases. Significant increases in sediment Ba were observed at all sampling radii but large increases (up to 7.5 fold) were only observed within a few hundred meters of the drilling site. An accurate mass balance of total discharged (excess) Ba present in sediments within 1000 m of the drilling site was determined. Only 9.3% of the total Ba used, and presumably other similar drilling mud components traced by Ba, was present within 1000 m at the conclusion of drilling. After 2.6 mo, only 6.6% was present. Significant sediment resuspension and transport occurring in the high current nearshore study site (24 m water depth) was responsible for the low retention and rapid loss of discharged Ba in the sediment. The largest mean increase in sediment Cr (26%) occurred at the 1000 m sampling radii.
Kentucky Bluegrass Compared to Alfalfa for Chick Growth

Abstract Two different levels of dehydrated Kentucky bluegrass and dehydrated alfalfa were fed to broiler chicks from 0–4 weeks of age. It was concluded that the chicks fed on a corn-soybean meal diet with the substitutions of dehydrated Kentucky bluegrass, at either the 9 or 20 percent levels of diet, had better growth rates than chicks fed similar levels of dehydrated alfalfa.
Market collusion and the politics of protection

Abstract This paper investigates the relationship between trade and competition policy within a model where market collusion and protectionist lobbying are themselves related. Collusion and lobbying are modeled as joint products of the same collective effort of firms. In equilibrium, firms cannot achieve greater cooperation in one dimension without reducing it in the other. A trade agreement that limits the effectiveness of lobbying may cause firms to increase market collusion, thereby increasing the domestic price. Thus, international trade agreements may run counter to the goals of competition policy. On the other side, a more restrictive competition policy is shown to either reduce the domestic price or reduce import protection. Thus, competition policy tends to promote trade policy goals. The reason is that restrictive competition policy undermines collusion at the source—it decreases the per-firm benefit to collusion relative to the gains from deviating—reducing firm cooperation in both dimensions.
Assessing the Impact of Control and Sensory Compatibility on Sickness in Virtual Environments

Virtual reality (VR) users are frequently limited by motion sickness-like symptoms. One factor that might influence sickness in VR is the level of control one has in a virtual environment. Reason's Sensory Conflict Theory suggested that motion sickness occurs when incompatibilities exist between four sensory inputs. It is possible that control and sensory compatibility are positively related. If this is the case, increasing control in a virtual environment should result in decreasing symptomology. To test this, the present study used the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire to measure symptomology of 163 participants after exposure to a virtual environment. Three levels of control and compatibility were assessed. It was hypothesized that the participants with control and compatible sensory information would experience fewer symptoms than participants in either the control/incompatible or no control/incompatible conditions. Although significant main effects were found for both gender and condition, the finding...
Effective potential for even parity Regge-Wheeler gravitational perturbation equations

The Schr\"odinger-type equation for odd-parity perturbations on a background geometry has been extended to the even-parity perturbations. This should greatly simplify the analysis for calculations of gravitational radiation from stars and from objects falling into black holes.
More Than Reflections: Empathy in Motivational Interviewing Includes Language Style Synchrony Between Therapist and Client

Abstract Empathy is a basic psychological process that involves the development of synchrony in dyads. It is also a foundational ingredient in specific, evidence-based behavioral treatments like motivational interviewing (MI). Ratings of therapist empathy typically rely on a gestalt, “felt sense” of therapist understanding and the presence of specific verbal behaviors like reflective listening. These ratings do not provide a direct test of psychological processes like behavioral synchrony that are theorized to be an important component of empathy in psychotherapy. To explore a new objective indicator of empathy, we hypothesized that synchrony in language style (i.e., matching how statements are phrased) between client and therapists would predict gestalt ratings of empathy over and above the contribution of reflections. We analyzed 122 MI transcripts with high and low empathy ratings based on the Motivational Interviewing Treatment Integrity global rating scale. Linguistic inquiry and word count was used to estimate language style synchrony (LSS) of adjacent client and therapist talk turns. High-empathy sessions showed greater LSS across 11 language style categories compared with low-empathy sessions (p
A weight-adjusted Peto’s test when cause of death is not assigned

A new statistical testing approach using a weighted logrank statistic is developed for rodent tumorigenicity assays that have a single terminal sacrifice but not cause-of-death data. Instead of using cause-of-death assignment by pathologists, the number of fatal tumors is estimated by a constrained nonparametric maximum likelihood estimation method. For data lacking cause-of-death information, the Peto test is modified with estimated numbers of fatal tumors and a Fleming–Harrington-type weight, which is based on an estimated tumor survival function. A bootstrap resampling method is used to estimate the weight function. The proposed testing method with the weight adjustment appears to improve the performance in various situations of single-sacrifice animal experiments. A Monte Carlo simulation study for the proposed test is conducted to assess size and power of the test. This testing approach is illustrated using a real data set.
The Psychobiology of Children Exposed to Marital Violence.

We examined the psychological and physiological functioning of a community sample of children exposed to marital violence, comparing them to a clinical comparison group without marital violence exposure. Results replicated past findings of elevated levels of trauma symptomatology in this population. Further, children exposed to marital violence differed significantly from comparison children with respect to sympathetic nervous system functioning and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis functioning. Specifically, elevations were seen in heart rate and salivary cortisol levels, but not in orthostatic challenge response or blood pressure. These results indicate that children exposed to marital violence have a different physiological presentation than controls and may be physiologically "traumatized" by virtue of marital violence exposure.
Vascular endothelial growth factor promotes neurite maturation in primary CNS neuronal cultures.

Abstract Recent studies have demonstrated that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor VEGFR2 (flk-1) are expressed by neurons during development and following hypoxic–ischemic events. Moreover, fetal CNS tissue explants exposed to exogenous VEGF exhibit increased neuronal Map-2 expression, suggesting that VEGF could have an effect on neuronal maturation. To determine whether this effect is of a direct nature, we examined the expression of Map-2 in the presence of VEGF in primary CNS neuronal cultures. After 3 days in culture, a statistically significant dose-dependent increase in the length of Map-2(+) processes was observed, with the peak occurring at 10 ng/ml of VEGF. Immunohistochemical analysis of the cultures demonstrated the presence of VEGFR2 after VEGF treatment, as well as the expression of the VEGF receptor VEGFR1 (flt-1). Treatment of the cultures with antisense oligonucleotides against VEGFR2, but not against VEGFR1, abolished the effect of VEGF on the length of Map-2(+) processes. RT-PCR analyses of Map-2 and VEGFR1 indicated that mRNAs of these two genes are upregulated in the presence of VEGF. The addition of wortmannin, an inhibitor of PI3K/Akt signal-transduction pathway, to the media did not affect the VEGF-dependent increase in Map-2(+) length. In contrast PD98059, which inhibits the MAPK pathway, partially abolished this effect of VEGF. These experiments suggest that VEGF has a direct effect on neuronal growth and maturation under normoxic conditions during CNS development, which is mediated by the VEGFR2 receptor via the MAPK pathway.
Individualized additional instruction for calculus

College students enrolling in the calculus sequence have a wide variance in their preparation and abilities, yet they are usually taught from the same lecture. We describe another pedagogical model of Individualized Additional Instruction (IAI) that assesses each student frequently and prescribes further instruction and homework based on the student's performance. Our study compares two calculus classes, one taught with mandatory remedial IAI and the other without. The class with mandatory remedial IAI did significantly better on comprehensive multiple-choice exams, participated more frequently in classroom discussion and showed greater interest in theorem-proving and other advanced topics.
The world-systems perspective and archaeology: Forward into the past

This article reviews previous attempts to extend world-system theory from the modern era to prehistoric and archaeological settings. It summarizes major debates among scholars from several disciplines who are comparing the modern world-system with earlier world-systems. Special attention centers on the problems of conceptualizing world-systems, the spatial bounding of world-systems, and understandings of systemic logics.
Validation of the Arizona Governor's Quality Award criteria: a test of the Baldrige criteria

Abstract Tens of thousands of firms have used the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) criteria to improve the quality of their products and processes. Because the MBNQA data are confidential, there has been no published assessment of the validity and reliability of these criteria for evaluating the quality management practices of an organization. In this research, we analyze data from the Arizona Governor's Quality Award (AGQA) in order to check the validity of the model used to evaluate organizational quality. The criteria for the AGQA closely parallel the MBNQA criteria. Hence, the conclusions drawn from this study provide a basis for generalization to the MBNQA criteria. In the literature review, the MBNQA criteria are compared to two other instruments that have been developed and tested for measuring quality management. The MBNQA criteria are found to be more comprehensive and less prescriptive than the other two. In our research, we examine content validity, construct validity, and predictive validity of the AGQA. Finally, we present our conclusions and implications for researchers and managers.
Linearity and ultra-linearization of ring resonator modulators for sub-octave bandpass analog optical links

The linearity of a ring resonator based modulator is experimentally studied. From the experimental transfer function, the intermodulation-free dynamic range is predicted to be 123 dBHz/sup 4/5/. A scheme to obtain ultra-high linearity is proposed.
The role of environmental controls in determining sardine and anchovy population cycles in the California Current: Analysis of an end-to-end model

Sardine and anchovy are two forage species of particular interest because of their low-frequency cycles in adult abundance in boundary current regions, combined with a commercially relevant contribution to the global marine food catch. While several hypotheses have been put forth to explain decadal shifts in sardine and anchovy populations, a mechanistic basis for how the physics, biogeochemistry, and biology combine to produce patterns of synchronous variability across widely separated systems has remained elusive. The present study uses a 50-year (1959–2008) simulation of a fully coupled end-to-end ecosystem model configured for sardine and anchovy in the California Current System to investigate how environmental processes control their population dynamics. The results illustrate that slightly different temperature and diet preferences can lead to significantly different responses to environmental variability. Simulated adult population fluctuations are associated with age-1 growth (via age-2 egg production) and prey availability for anchovy, while they depend primarily on age-0 survival and temperature for sardine. The analysis also hints at potential linkages to known modes of climate variability, whereby changes in adult abundance are related to ENSO for anchovy and to the PDO for sardine. The connection to the PDO and ENSO is consistent with modes of interannual and decadal variability that would alternatively favor anchovy during years of cooler temperatures and higher prey availability, and sardine during years of warmer temperatures and lower prey availability. While the end-to-end ecosystem model provides valuable insight on potential relationships between environmental conditions and sardine and anchovy population dynamics, understanding the complex interplay, and potential lags, between the full array of processes controlling their abundances in the California Current System remains an on-going challenge.
Habitat light, colour variation, and ultraviolet reflectance in the Grand Cayman anole, Anolis conspersus

Data from a diversity of sources are consistent with the hypothesis that the Grand Cayman anole, Anolis conspersus, is descended directly from Anolis grahami of Jamaica. Although the two species have remained morphologically similar, coloration in A. conspersus has changed considerably from that of its ancestor. The most dramatic difference is seen in dewlap colour, where A. conspersus has evolved a blue and highly UV-reflective dewlap from the ancestral orange-and-yellow colour state. In addition, variation in normal (non-metachrosis) dorsum coloration in A. grahami populations is limited to shades of green (olive, emerald, teal), whereas in A. conspersus dorsum coloration varies from green to blue and to brown. This increased colour variation occurs despite Grand Cayman being a small, relatively featureless island only 35 km in length. Results of this study suggest that ambient light differences associated with precipitation-related vegetation structure may have played an important role in the evolution of A. conspersus body colour variation. Evidence is presented to show how geological, ecological, and physiological factors could have interacted to select for a short wavelength-reflective dewlap from a long wavelength-reflective precursor following the colonization of Grand Cayman from Jamaica by A. grahami between 2 and 3 Mya.
Collagen fiber alignment and maximum principal strain in the glenohumeral capsule predict location of failure during uniaxial extension

The glenohumeral joint is frequently dislocated resulting in injury to the glenohumeral capsule. Repair techniques that focus on restoring the capsule after dislocation to re-establish its stabilizing function could benefit from predictions of the location of failure in this continuous sheet of tissue with a random collagen fiber alignment in the unloaded state. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the collagen fiber alignment and maximum principal strain in all regions of the capsule during uniaxial extension to failure and to determine whether these parameters could predict the location of tissue failure. Collagen fiber alignment, quantified using a small-angle light-scattering device, and maximum principal strain in the capsule were determined at 5 % increments of elongation until tissue failure. A contingency table analyzed with Fischer’s exact test demonstrated that peak collagen fiber alignment, represented by the normalized orientation index ( $$p < 0.001$$ ) and maximum principal strain ( $$p < 0.001$$ ), is significant in predicting location of failure. The direct correlation between the maximum principal strain and collagen fiber alignment measured prior to failure to the location of tissue failure suggests these parameters can be used as a predictive tool to help locate the areas of the glenohumeral capsule that are susceptible to failure. In the future, changes in collagen fiber alignment following injury could be used to develop a constitutive model for injured capsular tissue.
Detection of the Stable Isotopes of Carbon Using a 3-Mv Van De Graaff and the Application to Environmental and Biological Studies

The proton radiative capture reactions, 12C(p, y)13N and 13C(p, y)14N, have been studied to determine their applicability for assaying materials for their 13C enrichment. This technique for determining carbon isotopic ratios compares favorably with the more classical analysis techniques for 13C tracer experiments.
On jnd representations of semiorders

Abstract This paper determines automorphisms and endomorphisms associated with constant jnd (just noticeable difference) semiorder representations. Building on the constant jnd case, a novel representation theorem is given for countable semiorders which provides insight into the role of more complex jnd functions. The significance of the representation problem for countable structures is clarified by discussion of relations among observations, representations, and theories. The stress is on motivation, and on general methods applicable to many measurement models.
Using semantic memory to find vs create a mood.

Ss produced words from semantic memory which satisfied certain constraints. In Experiment I, a noun category plus a number and a letter were presented (e.g., ANIMAL-I-D, FRUIT-P-3), and S produced an instance of the category which had the given letter in the position designated by the given number. Faster responses occurred when the position cue occurred before the letter rather than after it. In Experiments II and III, Ss saw only a number and a letter (e.g., l-D, P-3) and were required to produce any word that had the given letter in the position designated by the given number. Order of the position and letter cues did not influence response times. The effect of order in one case and not the other strongly suggests that producing a word that satisfies certain semantic constraints involves a different process from producing a word that satisfies only certain orthographic restrictions
Using virtual reference transcripts for staff training

The technology of virtual reference software has created new opportunities for libraries to examine the reference interview and consider its role in their institutions. The ability to capture transcripts of reference transactions (or "chats") allows for a routine analysis of the interview in ways only previously available through more time‐consuming and awkward means, such as obtrusive studies. This analysis leads to many new possibilities for alternative methods of staff training. This article examines one such method, in which graduate student workers at a university reference desk were asked to examine transcripts of actual virtual reference transactions, using the standard of the Reference and User Services Association’s Behavioral Guidelines for evaluation. The study sought to increase the students’ awareness of reference standards and expectations for reference desk behavior, as well as to help the group come to a consensus about how the reference interview should be conducted locally in the online ...
Understanding narrative effects: the role of discrete negative emotions on message processing and attitudes among low-income African American women.

This study tests the processes through which breast cancer narrative messages are effective by taking a functional approach. We explore how discrete negative emotions (i.e., sadness, fear, and anger) induced by breast cancer survivor stories affect African American women’s message processing, recall of message content, and attitudinal outcomes. Structural equation modeling was performed for narrative and informational versions of a breast cancer screening video shown to 489 low-income African American women ages 40 years and older. The model was well fitted. Sadness enhanced the persuasive process, while fear inhibited it. Sadness also helped participants recall more message-relevant content, while fear inhibited recall. Anger was not related to the persuasive process. Implications of these findings for narrative research and application are discussed.
Validity of a verbally administered numeric rating scale to measure cancer pain intensity

The ability to quantify pain intensity is essential when caring for individuals in pain in order to monitor patient progress and analgesic effectiveness. Three scales are commonly employed: the simple descriptor scale (SDS), the visual analog scale (VAS), and the numeric (pain intensity) rating scale (NRS). Patients with English as a second language may not be able to complete the SDS without translation, and visually, cognitively, or physically impaired patients may have difficulty using the VAS. The NRS has been found to be a simple and valid alternative in some disease states; however, the validity of this scale administered verbally, without visual cues, to oncology patients has not yet been established. The present study examined validity of a verbally administered 0-10 NRS using convergence methods. The correlation between the VAS and the NRS was strong and statistically significant (r = 0.847, p < 0.001), supporting the validity of the verbally administered NRS. Although all subjects were able to complete the NRS and SDS without apparent difficulty, 11 subjects (20%) were unable to complete the VAS. The mean opioid intake was significantly higher for the group that was unable to complete the VAS (mean 170.8 mg, median 120.0 mg, SD = 135.8) compared to the group that had no difficulty with the scale (mean 65.6 mg, 33.0 mg, SD = 99.7) (Mann-Whitney test, p = 0.0065). The verbally administered 0-10 NRS provides a useful alternative to the VAS, particularly as more contact with patients is established via telephone and patients within the hospital are more acutely ill.
Fabrication approaches to ZnO nanowire devices

To date, most of the work on ZnO nanostructures has focused on the synthesis methods and there have been only a few reports of the electrical characteristics. We report on fabrication methods for obtaining device functionality from single ZnO nanorods. A key aspect is the use of sonication to facilitate transfer of the nanorods from the initial substrate on which they are grown to another substrate for device fabrication. Examples of devices fabricated using this method are briefly described, including metal-oxide semiconductor field effect depletion-mode transistors with good saturation behavior, a threshold voltage of ∼−3 V, and a maximum transconductance of order 0.3 mS/mm and Pt Schottky diodes with excellent ideality factors of 1.1 at 25°C and very low (1.5×10−10 A, equivalent to 2.35 Acm−2, at −10 V) reverse currents. The photoresponse showed only a minor component with long decay times (tens of seconds) thought to originate from surface states. These results show the ability to manipulate the electron transport in nanoscale ZnO devices.
Stainless Steel Armor Plate Design for Protecting Supercavitating Baffle Blocks against Debris Impacts in High-Velocity Stilling Basins

AbstractSupercavitating baffle blocks, with their unique geometry, have been shown to be highly effective in reducing cavitation damage to stilling basins’ floors and to the baffle blocks themselves. However, this unique geometry, which consists of thin concrete edges and steep slopes, is very susceptible to abrasion erosion by debris impacts. This paper presents a methodology for sizing debris, calculating impact forces, and an armored plate design that can withstand high-velocity impacts while conforming to the baffle blocks challenging shape.
Simulating Area Conservation and the Gas-Wall Interface for One-Dimensional Based Diesel Particulate Filter Models

Researchers have been using one-dimensional based models of diesel particulate filters (DPFs) for over two decades with good success in comparison to measured experimental data. Recent efforts in literature have expanded the classical model to account for the effects of varying soot layer thickness on the flow area of the gases. However, some discrepancies exist with respect to this formulation and the physical phenomena modeled in the channel equations. In addition, there is still some discussion regarding the calculation of the gas temperature within the soot and wall layers. As a result, this paper presents a model to discuss these different phenomena to remove or validate previous assumptions. In specific, formulation of the flow equations in area-conserved format (or quasi-one-dimensional) allows the model to account for the changes in the gaseous area as a function of soot loading. In addition, imposing thermodynamic equilibrium at the interface of the channels and wall layers allows the model to capture the thermal entrance lengths. These tasks were undertaken to illustrate whether or not the results justify the effort is worthwhile and this additional complexity needs to be incorporated within the model. By utilizing linear density interpolation in the wall to increase the computational efficiency of the code, it was determined that the classical model assumptions of neglecting soot thickness and gas temperature in the wall are valid within the range of typical DPF applications.
Glycopeptides of human immunoglobulins. I. Preparation and carbohydrate composition.

Abstract The carbohydrate composition of six immunoglobulins and two amyloid preparations were compared. Glycopeptides, derived from the myeloma and macroglobulin proteins, were examined with regard to composition. Evidence indicates that in each case the largest glycopeptide is composed of fucose, mannose, galactose, N-acetyl glucosamine and N-acetyl neuraminic acid in ratios that only moderate variability. The remaining glycopeptides have less constant composition and consist primarily of mannose and aminohexose. Data is compared to that previously reported in the literature. The relationship of the carbohydrate moieties to function is discussed. Although no conclusive evidence is as yet available, the possible roles relate to cellular export and physical properties.
Can spatial variation alone lead to selection for dispersal

Abstract The question of selection on dispersal rates in a spatially varying, temporally constant environment is studied using an evolutionarily stable strategy approach. Dispersal is modelled as passive diffusion. For any dynamics leading to an equilibrium which does exhibit spatial variation, dispersal will be selected against. Hence, selection for dispersal must include other factors. Other biological implications of the results are discussed.
Lateral Transport of Ions into the Xylem of Corn Roots: II. Evaluation of a Stelar Pump.

When an excised corn (Zea mays) root pretreated with chloride was exposed for 10 minutes to pulse labeling with (30)Cl and then transferred to unlabeled chloride, the activity in the xylem exudate reached a maximum about 4 minutes after pulse labeling was discontinued and then declined sharply. The rate at which labeled chloride was transported across the root into the xylem and basipetally therein was on the order of 75 to 250 centimeters per hour. Consequently, symplasmic movement of chloride in corn roots is fast and may not be rate-limiting in transfer from the root surface to the xylem. Experiments on pulse labeling with (22)Na gave similar results. A large fraction of the absorbed (22)Na was not translocated into the exudate but was tightly sequestered in a cell compartment, probably the vacuole.Electron probe analysis was used to reveal the pattern of potassium distribution in cross sections taken 10 to 11 millimeters from the tip. The cytoplasm and vacuoles of the xylem parenchyma cells accumulated potassium to a much greater extent than cortical and other stelar cells. Ultrastructural studies showed that the cytoplasm of the xylem parenchyma cells contains numerous membrane systems. It was concluded that the xylem parenchyma cells secrete ions from the symplasm into the conducting vessels, and it was suggested that this secretion is driven across the plasmalemma by a carrier-mediated transport.
The effect of type 1 astrocytes on neuronal complexity: a fractal analysis.

Embryonic, ventral spinal cord neurons were grown on poly(d-lysine) (PDL) or on a monolayer of type 1 astrocytes. At various times from 6 h to 2 weeks postplating, cells were fluorescently labeled and fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde. The cell surface immunoreaction allowed visualization of neurons in their entirety, namely, cell bodies and various membranous extensions that included lamellipodia, growth cones, axons, and dendrites. Outlines were drawn for individual neurons and their fractal dimension (D) was calculated. Neurons on poly(d-lysine) reached a peak D at 3 days in vitro, 1 day later than neurons on astrocytes (2 days in vitro). The maximum D was greater for cells on poly(d-lysine) when compared with neurons on astrocytes. In a second experiment the maximum D was similar for neurons on both surfaces but neurons on PDL maintained a higher D for a much longer period than neurons on astrocytes. An examination of fluorescent images revealed that neurons on poly(d-lysine) exhibited lamellipodia and large growth cones for several days and these structures were likely responsible for the high D seen in these cells. These structures were rarely observed in neurons plated on astrocytes. Interestingly, D on both surfaces decreased to a similar value at between 1 and 2 weeks in vitro. The trend for D in these cultures, an initial increase to a peak value followed by a decrease to a stable value, is discussed in light of the chemical nature of the two surfaces and synapse formation and stabilization.
Fine structure of the human FMR1 gene

The fragile X syndrome is due to a CGG triplet expansion in the first exon of FMR1, resulting in hypermethylation and extinction of gene expression. To further our understanding of the gene's involvement in the syndrome, we report the physical structure of this locus. A high resolution restriction map of the FRAX(A) locus has been prepared encompassing approximately 50 kb. Using exon-exon PCR and restriction analysis, the FMR1 gene has been determined to consist of 17 exons spanning 38 kb of Xq27.3. Each intron-exon boundary has been sequenced. In general, the splice donors and acceptors located in the 5' portion of the gene demonstrate greater adherence to consensus than those in the 3' end, providing a possible explanation for the finding of alternative splicing in FMR1. The elucidation of the exon composition of the FMR1 gene and its flanking region will enhance detection of coding sequence mutations possible in fragile X phenocopy individuals.
Antioxidants in neoplastic cells: I. Changes in the antioxidative capacity of mouse neuroblastoma cells measured by a single-phase assay.

Cultured mouse neuroblastoma cells exhibit a striking increase in antioxidative capacity during the transition from logarithmically dividing cells to nondividing, neurite-bearing cells. Two physically separable phenomena are involved: (a) the membrane pellet of neurite-bearing cells is highly resistant to lipid peroxidation, and (b) the postmicrosomal supernatant of these cells inhibits peroxidation in rat liver mitochondria and other biological membranes. A precise, single-phase assay has been developed for assessing antioxidant levels in lipid extracts. By means of this assay, the increase in membrane resistance to lipid peroxidation has been correlated with a threefold increase in the antioxidant activity of the neuroblastoma neutral lipid fraction. This finding implies that generation of a neutral lipid antioxidant (or antioxidants) is involved in the profound increase in antioxidative capacity which occurs in differentiating neuroblastoma cells.
Atrial fibrillation in Europe: state of the state in disease management!

This editorial refers to ‘Prognosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation patients by European cardiologists: One year follow-up of the EURObservational Research Programme–Atrial Fibrillation General Registry Pilot Phase (EORP-AF Pilot registry)’[†][1], by G.Y. Lip et al ., on page 3365. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia, with an estimated prevalence of 6 million among all Europeans.1 This places a huge public health burden in terms of morbidity, mortality, and cost issues.2,3 The disease continues to grow to epidemic proportions as the aged population increases, with a projected doubling of the disease in the next 50 years.1 Despite advances in our understanding of the disease process, patient awareness, technology, and therapeutic strategies, the incidence of AF-related stroke continues to rise.4 The EURObservational Research Programme–Atrial Fibrillation General Registry Pilot Phase (EORP-AF Pilot registry) has now been published, where data are presented on 1-year follow-up of 3319 patients included in the registry that were obtained from 67 centres in nine European countries.5 The EORP-AF Pilot general registry is an ambitious effort and was designed as a long-term cohort. As stated by the authors, the main objectives of the follow-up of the EORP-AF registry are stated as follows: (i) to obtain contemporary information on the occurrence of AF-related complications in Europe; (ii) to assess whether the diagnostic work-up of AF complies with current European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines (2010 guidelines and the 2012 focused update) and the impact on outcomes; (iii) to evaluate appropriateness of treatment in the different subsets of … [1]: #fn-2
Campaign Contributions, Post-War Reconstruction Contracts, and State Crime

This article presents a case-control study of the relationship between Federal-level campaign contributions, corporate political connections, and the awarding of post-war reconstruction contracts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Cases are 135 companies that received post-war contracts and controls are 135 randomly selected companies matched on industry. Results reveal that both campaign contributions and political connections significantly increase a company's odds of receiving a contract. Results are situated in the context of current theory on state crime. It is argued that awarding contracts on this basis may constitute a form of state crime, but alternative explanations for the findings are also discussed.
Plant processing strategies and their affect upon starch grain survival when rendering Peltandra virginica (L.) Kunth, Araceae edible

There is a long history of human interaction with plants of the Aroideae subfamily (Araceae). Despite these plants' chemical defenses against animal and vegetal predation, humans have targeted their starchy corms, tubers and rhizomes for dietary purposes. In the Eastern Woodlands of North America, early Europeans described the Native population as utilizing the highly acridic Peltandra virginica (arrow arum) for subsistence needs. In order to render this resource edible, however, the acridic principle first needs to be eliminated. Our study investigates the affect these processing activities have on the integrity of arrow arum starch grains. Findings from this study demonstrate that environmental variables specific to individual processing procedures may be more influential on starch grain survival than simply the temperatures reached during cooking.
Inhibition of mitochondrial respiration by phosphoenolpyruvate.

Abstract The cytosolic factors that influence mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation rates are relatively unknown. In this report, we examine the effects of phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP), a glycolytic intermediate, on mitochondrial function. It is reported here that in rat heart mitochondria, PEP delays the onset of state 3 respiration in mitochondria supplied with either NADH-linked substrates or succinate. However, the maximal rate of state 3 respiration is only inhibited when oxidative phosphorylation is supported by NADH-linked substrates. The capacity of PEP to delay and/or inhibit state 3 respiration is dependent upon the presence or absence of ATP. Inhibition of state 3 is exacerbated in uncoupled mitochondria, with a 40% decrease in respiration seen with 0.1 mM PEP. In contrast, ATP added exogenously or produced by oxidative phosphorylation completely prevents PEP-mediated inhibition. Mechanistically, the results support the conclusion that the main effects of PEP are to impede ADP uptake and inhibit NADH oxidation. By altering the NADH/NAD + status of mitochondria, it is demonstrated that PEP enhances succinate dehydrogenase activity and increase free radical production. The results of this study indicate PEP may be an important modulator of mitochondrial function under conditions of decreased ATP.
Impact of nephron sparing on kidney function and non-oncologic mortality

The surgical management of kidney tumors has significantly evolved over the past decade. Partial nephrectomy and nephron sparing surgery have emerged as the treatments of choice for most newly diagnosed kidney tumors at tertiary care centers. The trend towards an organ sparing approach is largely due to an improved understanding of the global importance of kidney function as well as the impact that kidney surgery may have on non-oncologic morbidity and mortality. In addition to reviewing the methods of evaluating kidney function, this article discusses the effectiveness of various nephron sparing techniques in preserving kidney function and improving non-oncologic outcomes.
MRI detection of forearm soft tissue injuries with radial head fractures.

Background This study aims to evaluate the incidence of forearm soft tissue abnormalities associated with radial head fracture severity based on the Mason classification system.
Peer influence and selection effects on adolescent smoking.

Abstract Background Studies showing that adolescents are more likely to smoke if they have friends who smoke typically infer that this is the result of peer influence. However, it may also be due to adolescents choosing friends who have smoking behaviors similar to their own (i.e., selection). One of the most influential studies of influence and selection effects on smoking concluded that these processes contribute about equally to peer group homogeneity in adolescent smoking ( Ennett and Bauman, 1994 ). The goal of this study was to conduct a partial replication of these findings. Methods Data are from 1223 participants in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Spectral decomposition techniques identified friendship cliques, which were then used as the unit of analysis to examine influence and selection effects over a one-year period. Results Non-smokers were more likely to become smokers if they initially belonged to a smoking (vs. non-smoking) group, and smokers were more likely to become non-smokers if they initially belonged to a non-smoking (vs. smoking) group, indicating an influence effect on both initiation and cessation. Further, group members who changed groups between waves were more likely to select groups with smoking behavior congruent to their own, providing evidence of a selection effect. Conclusions While our results generally replicate the group analyses reported by Ennett and Bauman (1994) , they suggest that peer influence and selection effects on adolescent smoking may be much weaker than assumed based on this earlier research.