cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cytotoxic actions of palytoxin on aortic smooth muscle cells in culture

Palytoxin (PTX), isolated from a zoanthid of the genus Palythoa, is the most potent marine toxin known. Intoxication by PTX leads to vasoconstriction, hemorrhage, ataxia, muscle weakness, ventricular fibrillation, pulmonary hypertension, ischemia and death. In this study, clonal A7r5 rat aortic smooth muscle cells were used to study the mechanism of PTX-mediated cytotoxicity. A7r5 cells exposed to PTX for > or = 15 min exhibited surface granularities, vacuoles and rounding. These alterations culminated in a loss of viability as indicated by marked increases in the release of lactate dehydrogenase. Electrophysiological recording from A7r5 cells disclosed a profound membrane depolarization and an increase in conductance to Na+ and K+. PTX-mediated cytotoxicity could not be reversed by washout or by the addition of 10 microM verapamil but was antagonized by 100 microM ouabain or by removal of extracellular Na+ or Ca2+. In light of the involvement of vascular smooth muscle in PTX poisoning, A7r5 cells could serve as a useful model to test specific drugs for treatment of PTX intoxication.
Biodistribution of A14C-and99mTc-labeled N-substituted nitrosourea (CCNU) in an animal tumor model

One formulation of14C labeled and another of99mTc labeled 1-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea (CCNU) were administered i.v. to tumor (glioma) bearing rats. The radiopharmacokinetics of14C-CCNU were followed up to 24 hours post injection. On a per organ basis the blood, liver, small bowel, kidney cortex and muscle contained most of the activity. Optimum tumor to organ ratios occurred at 4–12 hours. The99mTc-CCNU biodistribution was determined at 4 hours and compared to99mTc-NaTcO4. Tumor capsule to brain (29.5) and to muscle (10.59) ratios suggest99mTc-CCNU to be a potential tumor seeking agent.
Men’s Perceptions of an Acquaintance Rape The Role of Relationship Length, Victim Resistance, and Gender Role Attitudes

Sexual aggression is a persistent and prevalent issue in the United States, which often results in a number of psychological, emotional, and physical consequences for victims. The current study examined whether the length of relationship between the victim and perpetrator, level of victim resistance, and observers' gender role attitudes play a role in observers' perceptions of an alleged sexual assault. Participants included 297 male college students from a public university in the Northeastern United States. Contrary to hypotheses, there were no significant effects for length of relationship on participants' attributions. Relative to no resistance, verbal and physical strategies by the victim predicted higher levels of victim credibility, perpetrator culpability, and perpetrator guilt, as well as lower levels of victim culpability and perceived victim pleasure. Endorsement of traditional adversarial sex role beliefs and hostile sexist attitudes, as opposed to egalitarian attitudes, were associated with the attribution of less credibility to the victim, perceived victim trauma, perpetrator culpability, perpetrator guilt, and shorter recommended prison sentences, as well as greater victim culpability and perceived victim pleasure. Laypersons' perceptions of sexual assault merit further study, as they are relevant to juror decision making and third party responses to sexual victimization (e.g., peer support for victim) and can contribute to the secondary victimization and recovery of survivors of sexual assault.
The making of a ‘business case’ for environmental upgrading: Sri Lanka’s eco-factories

Abstract There is a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability and ‘business case’ approaches in corporate social responsibility programs. As part of an effort to become a world leader in sustainability, British retailer Marks and Spencer (M&S) piloted more environmentally friendly apparel factories. This paper examines the politics of environmental upgrading in Sri Lanka, where suppliers for M&S built three of ‘the world’s first’ apparel eco-factories in 2008. Drawing on multi-sited, meso-level research in Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom, I investigate how and why these factories originated in Sri Lanka and how a business case for environmental upgrading was formulated. However, despite cost savings and exceptionally favorable circumstances for environmental upgrading in Sri Lanka, I found that suppliers were ambivalent about whether there was a sufficient business rationale for investing in environmental upgrading. Therefore, I argue that the business case for environmental upgrading is limited by the lack of mechanisms for ensuring that suppliers can obtain a return on investments. Contributing to debates about ethical trade and upgrading in global value chains (GVCs), this case suggests that power dynamics in GVCs shape the extent to which suppliers can capture a share of the gains from environmental upgrading that is proportional to their share of investment in upfront costs.
Hydrocortisone Regulates the Dynamics of Plasminogen Activator and Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor Expression in Cultured Murine Keratinocytes

Abstract The plasminogen activators tPA and uPA, and their inhibitors, PAI-1 and PAI-2, have been associated with epithelial homeostasis and wound healing. In these studies, we investigate the effect of the steroid hormone hydrocortisone, a commonly used therapeutic modality for skin, on PAs/PAIs in serum- and plasminogen-free primary cultures of murine keratinocytes. SDS–PAGE fibrin zymography showed that addition of 1 μM hydrocortisone to cultures significantly reduced tPA fibrinolytic activity in both cell extracts and conditioned medium. uPA activity in conditioned medium was similarly inhibited. Cells were also cultured in the presence of dibutyryl cyclic AMP (dbcAMP). dbcAMP (5 mM) alone enhanced uPA and tPA fibrinolytic activity in conditioned medium, but this increase was diminished in the presence of 1 μM hydrocortisone. Immunoblots revealed a three- to fivefold induction of free PAI-1 by hydrocortisone which was partially blocked by dbcAMP. Northern blots showed that PAI-1 mRNA increased threefold 2 h after addition of hydrocortisone and remained elevated at least 8 h. In contrast, uPA and tPA mRNA were unchanged over the same time course. uPA, tPA, and PAI-1 mRNA increased in the presence of dbcAMP; levels remained elevated at least 8 h. HC suppressed the induction of uPA and tPA by dbcAMP. Studies directed at identifying plasminogen mRNA showed that in this culture system, keratinocytes produce no plasminogen mRNA either in the presence or in the absence of hydrocortisone or dbcAMP. Collectively, these results show that keratinocyte plasminogen activator activity is suppressed by hydrocortisone as a function of increased PAI-1 combined with an attenuation of PA induction by agents that increase intracellular cAMP. These results provide additional information to further define the mechanism by which glucocorticoids inhibit wound healing.
Understanding user adaptation strategies for the launching of facebook timeline

This paper applies coping theory to understand user adaptation strategies to major interface changes on Social Networking Sites (SNSs). Specifically, we qualitatively examine 1,149 user comments posted to the Facebook's official Timeline blog in order to get a large and unobtrusive sample of real Facebook users' perceptions about the launch of Timeline. Our data suggests a high level of stress associated with the transition to the new interface introduced by Timeline. We also found evidence which suggests that increasing users' perceptions of control over major interface changes may help facilitate user adaptation to these changes. This study offers valuable insights to SNSs for mitigating user stress and facilitating successful adaptation during major interface changes.
The Nuclear Explosion Database (NEDB): A New Database and Web Site for Accessing Nuclear Explosion Source Information and Waveforms

The Nuclear Explosion Database (NEDB) project has provided access to source parameter data and associated waveforms for worldwide nuclear explosions, as documented in a series of reports ( e.g. , Yang et al. 2000). These NEDB data are available online at http://www.rdss.info/(access currently restricted to authorized users pending open release of all data). As described in Bahavar et al. (2007), access to the data has recently been upgraded; and, in some cases, events have been added or the associated source parameters have been refined utilizing new information sources ( e.g. , Department of Energy—DOE 2000; Springer et al. 2002; Khalturin et al. 2005; Bennett et al. 2006; Defense Threat Reduction Agency—DTRA 2008; Kim and Richards 2007). In addition to performing a range of QA/QC checks on the source data ( e.g. , comparisons with satellite imagery), station calibration and response information have been improved to make archived waveform data from the NEDB more useful to the research community. More specifically, an analyst-reviewed digital waveform archive, consisting of over 120,000 nuclear explosion recordings, has been implemented for online access. The focus of this paper is on 1) identification of preferred ground truth solutions for nuclear explosions, 2) recent improvements to NEDB event database access and documentation, 3) expanded event analysis options ( e.g. , display of station travel-time residuals), and 4) enhancements to display, review, and retrieve waveform data. While the discussion that follows tends to emphasize underground nuclear explosions because of their interest to the seismological community, it should be noted that the NEDB also includes data on atmospheric (including some with seismic waveform data), underwater, and high-altitude nuclear tests. The NEDB includes source parameter data for some 2,153 announced or presumed nuclear explosions (1,627 underground, 518 atmospheric, eight underwater) conducted by eight countries in more than 43 …
Unbiased estimation of the phase of a sinusoid

Estimation of the phase of a sinusoid is an important problem in signal processing. The usual maximum likelihood estimator is biased and so can produce poor results, especially at low signal-to-noise ratios and/or short data records. It is proven that no unbiased estimator exists; based on the proof, several means of obtaining estimators with less bias than the maximum likelihood estimator are proposed.
Grid of the future demonstration system

A smart grid laboratory demonstration system has been designed and built. The system includes renewable energy resources such as solar and wind energy generators, as well as battery and compressed air energy storage elements. Residential, commercial and industrial load complexes model their real-world counterparts. A capacitor bank is used to control power factor. The electrical network is 18 V rms AC, and is equipped with current/voltage sensors and electromechanical relays. All sensors/relays interface with Rockwell's Allen Bradley PLCs. A scenario generation PLC is used to develop scenarios for the grid, which are programmed using a touch screen user interface. DC sources interface to the grid using custom built grid-tie DC to AC inverters. The system will serve as an educational tool, and a platform for the development of advanced smart grid sensing, communication and control technologies, including Agent-based distributed control software developed by Rockwell Automation.
Association between the CD209 promoter -336A/G polymorphism and susceptibility to tuberculosis: a meta-analysis.

Background and objective: Dendritic cell-specific intracellular adhesion molecule-3 grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN), encoded by the CD209 gene, is a major Mycobacterium tuberculosis receptor on human dendritic cells. The potentially functional −336A/G polymorphism in the CD209 promoter region has been associated with susceptibility to tuberculosis (TB), but the results have been inconclusive. We performed a meta-analysis to clarify the relationship between the CD209−336A/G variant and the risk of TB. Methods: Ten studies involving a total of 2598 TB patients and 2614 control subjects were systematically reviewed, and the data were quantitatively synthesized by meta-analysis. The Q-test was applied to assess the heterogeneity of associations among the studies, and Egger's regression test was used to assess potential publication bias. Results: No significant association was identified between the CD209−336A/G polymorphism and risk of TB (G allele vs A allele: odds ratio (OR) 1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.90–1.15). Moreover, no significant association was observed in populations of African ethnicity (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.87–1.17) or among individuals who were negative for the human immunodeficiency virus (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.84–1.15). Conclusions: This meta-analysis has indicated that the CD209−336A/G polymorphism may not contribute to susceptibility to TB.
CTLA-4 blockade: autoimmunity as treatment.

The immune system can recognize and respond to an incredible diversity of targets or antigens. With the evolution of this adaptive capability, the immune system has also co-evolved multiple layers of regulation to prevent autoimmunity, unwanted responses to self-antigens. Unfortunately, many tumor antigens represent self-antigens, and therefore tumors are usually not effectively eliminated by the immune system. Several different mechanisms are in place to maintain this tolerance to self-antigens. In the case of T-cell immunity, one important layer of regulation is the interplay between enhancement and inhibition of T-cell responses by costimulatory molecules. It is thought that, in most cases, signals from the T-cell receptor (TCR) alone are insufficient to result in optimal immune responses, 1 and a second, costimulatory signal is required to overcome a threshold for T cells to respond. This enhancement of TCR signals is provided primarily by CD28 on the T cells, which can be triggered by B7 expressed on the antigen-bearing cells. 2-7 Once activated, T cells express a second receptor, cytotoxic T lymphocyte– associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), that can also bind the same B7 molecules. In contrast to CD28, CTLA-4 actually inhibits T-cell responses, thereby applying the brakes to an ongoing immune response. 8-13 Evidence that this receptor is, in fact, crucial to the maintenance of tolerance was demonstrated by CTLA-4 knockout mice that develop a lethal lymphoproliferative disease with infiltration of multiple organs by activated T cells. 14,15 In contrast, transient blockade of CTLA-4 triggering with antibody can lead to enhancement of T-cell responses but also can induce autoimmunity that can include encephalomyelitis, colitis and diabetes in some mouse models. 16-18 Nevertheless, these observations have led to therapeutic approaches targeting this inhibitory pathway for tumor immunotherapy. Allison et al 19 have demonstrated that CTLA-4 blockade
Discrimination of target and RGPO echoes using frequency diversity

Range gate pull off (RGPO) is a deceptive electronic counter measure (ECM) that targets perform to cause the radar to break its track on the target. Targets performing RGPO utilize digital radio frequency memory (DRFM) to store the radar pulse and repeat the pulse at the radar with a controlled delay, so that the radar receives signals from the actual target and a false target. The use of frequency diversity in the discrimination of actual target echoes from the RGPO echoes is considered. The amplitudes of the target echoes are considered to be Rayleigh distributed, while the amplitude the RGPO echoes are considered to be fixed across the frequencies. Estimators of the amplitude parameters for Rayleigh and fixed-amplitude targets are presented along with algorithms for discriminating between fixed-amplitude and Rayleigh targets. The performance of the discrimination algorithms are illustrated through the results of Monte Carlo simulations.
Blessing or Curse? Work-Family Policies and Mother’s Wage Growth Over Time

Little empirical study has been devoted to the impact of employer-sponsored work-family policies on women’s wages. These policies include flexible scheduling, telecommuting, reduced hours of work, and child care assistance. Although these work innovations may make family caregiving easier, many women fear that lower wage growth and blocked mobility will result from the use of these policies. This project followed a midwestern cohort of employed women for 7 years after childbirth, using detailed information about coverage and use of family responsive policies across all jobs held during that period. Results show consistent negative effects of policy use on wage growth after controlling for many productivity-related characteristics, though the effects vary in size depending on the specific policy used, workers’ job mobility, and the respondent’s managerial or professional status.
Autonomous navigation to provide long-distance surface traverses for Mars Rover Sample Return Mission

Knowledge acquisition and representation techniques are developed to allow an autonomous vehicle to negotiate a path over partially unknown terrain, such as the long-distance traverses for the Mars Rover Sample Return Mission. Terrain navigation is accomplished by the following sequence of steps: the skylines from the visibility map and from the local terrain map are compared and the two 3-D curves in space are stochastically matched to update the vehicle location. A path segment is selected taking into consideration the goal, overall global topography, obstacles such as craters and boulders derived from the range-finder observations, and a priori constraints related to the mission, fuel consumption, and vehicle stability. The vehicle reaches a new vantage point with relatively broad visibility, but within sight of the last observation point. The skyline is then estimated and approximated again, and the cycle is reiterated for another advance. >
A tetratricopeptide repeat half-site in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor is important for DNA binding and trans-activation potential.

Similar to certain unliganded steroid hormone receptor complexes, the unliganded aryl hydrocarbon receptor has been shown to consist of a multimeric core complex that includes the 90-kDa heat shock protein (hsp90) and the immunophilin-like hepatitis B X-associated protein 2 (XAP2). Immunophilins and XAP2 associated with these complexes bind to the carboxylterminal end of hsp90 through an interaction with their tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) domains. The consensus TPR binding motif contains two domains, A and B. Recently, the carboxyl terminus of XAP2 has been shown to contain a highly conserved TPR domain that is required for the assembly of XAP2 with both hsp90 and AhR. A search of the murine AhR sequence identified domain B (A-F-A-P) of the consensus TPR sequence directly adjacent to the carboxyl-terminal side of the helix-loop-helix region of the murine and human AhR. We hypothesized that this conserved domain B region may be involved with mediating interactions between either AhR-hsp90, AhR-XAP2, and/or AhR-AhR nuclear translocator protein. Sitedirected mutagenesis of the amino-terminal alanine residue of this region to an aspartic acid (A78D) completely inhibited 2,3,7,8-tetrachloro-p-dioxin (TCDD) -dependent activation of a xenobiotic response element (XRE) driven gene expression construct in transfected COS-1 and BP8 cells. The A82F mutation caused a 40 to 50% decrease in TCDD-dependent activation. The inability of A78D and the reduction of A82F to trans-activate XRE-driven reporter activity did not result from impaired AhR-XAP2-hsp90 interactions, TCDD-dependent AhR translocation to the nucleus, or AhR-AhR nuclear translocator protein interactions. In vitro DNA binding analysis demonstrated that loss of trans-activation potential by the A78D mutation resulted from impaired XRE binding. This study underscores the potential importance of AhR mutations that occur naturally outside of known functional domains.
Weyl reflections in the unitary symmetry theory of strong interactions

Recent work has clearly demonstrated the fact that useful predictions in theNe’eman, Gell-Mann unitary symmetry theory of strong interactions follow from consideration of invariance under the Weyl reflections (generalized charge symmetry operations) ofSU3. Here we describe a fairly rapid and general algebraic method for obtaining the effect of the Weyl reflections on the basis vectors of an arbitrary irreducible representation (IR) ofSU3. The important feature of the method is that it applies to those basis vectors of the IR, which belong to the nonsimple weights of the IR and which can therefore not be treated by inspection of the weight diagram of the IR. Results are given for certain IR’s ofSU3 relevant to the Ne’eman-Gell-Mann theory — the 8, 27 and 35 component IRs (1.1) (2.2) and (4.1) of SU3.
On How Things Are Said: Voice Tone, Voice Intensity, Verbal Content, and Perceptions of Politeness

Individuals in two studies listened to statements or questions that were either consistent or inconsistent across verbal content and tone of voice. Results showed that tone of voice substantially affected judges’ ratings of the politeness for positive content statements but did so only minimally for negative content statements. Tone of voice affected judges’ politeness ratings of both positive and negative questions.
Energy Dissipation in Nonlinear Systems Coupled to a Bath: On the Use of Perturbative Maps

Iterated maps, which mimic the motion of nonlinear systems coupled to a bath, are described in the weak coupling regime. Classical time-dependent perturbation theory is used to derive the maps. To study vibrational energy transfer, the system is modeled by the harmonic and Morse oscillators. For chemical reactions the system is described by the double-well potential. Particular attention is given to the coupling between the systems and the bath, which is taken to be nonlinear in the bath modes. The maps provide a very efficient way to numerically simulate the dynamics of the systems, but are unique in their ability to delineate the various coupling parameters that govern the dynamics. A simple “random phase” limit of the maps is discussed and leads to a kinetic description of the dynamics given by a multidimensional Fokker−Planck equation. Explicit expressions for the energy-diffusion coefficients are obtained.
Active Learning in Persistent Surveillance UAV Missions

The performance of many complex UAV decision-making problems can be extremely sensitive to small errors in the model parameters. One way of mitigating this sensitivity is by designing algorithms that more eectively learn the model throughout the course of a mission. This paper addresses this important problem by considering model uncertainty in a multi-agent Markov Decision Process (MDP) and using an active learning approach to quickly learn transition model parameters. We build on previous research that allowed UAVs to passively update model parameter estimates by incorporating new state transition observations. In this work, however, the UAVs choose to actively reduce the uncertainty in their model parameters by taking exploratory and informative actions. These actions result in a faster adaptation and, by explicitly accounting for UAV fuel dynamics, also mitigates the risk of the exploration. This paper compares the nominal, passive learning approach against two methods for incorporating active learning into the MDP framework: (1) All state transitions are rewarded equally, and (2) State transition rewards are weighted according to the expected resulting reduction in the variance of the model parameter. In both cases, agent behaviors emerge that enable faster convergence of the uncertain model parameters to their true values.
Permanently Retained Acupuncture Needles: Radiographic Findings and Case Report.

Introduction We report a case of a female patient whose routine chest radiograph revealed numerous small, linear, radiopaque foreign bodies. These were determined to be permanently implanted acupuncture needles. We describe the imaging appearance of these wires, discuss the potential for complications and briefly review the pertinent literature.
Tabu Search: Ultra-Fast Placement for FPGAs

Two-dimensional placement is an important problem for FPGAs. Current FPGA capacity allows one million gate equivalent designs. As FPGA capacity grows, new innovative approaches will be required for efficiently mapping circuits to FPGAs. We propose to use the tabu search optimization technique for the physical placement step of the circuit mapping process. Our goal is to reduce the execution time of the placement step while providing high quality placement solutions. In this paper we present a study of tabu search applied to the physical placement problem. First we describe the tabu search optimization technique. Then we outline the development of a tabu search based technique for minimizing the total wire length and minimizing the length of critical path edges for placed circuits on FPGAs. We demonstrate our methodology with several benchmark circuits available from MCNC, UCLA, and other universities. Our tabu search technique has shown dramatic improvement in placement time relative to commercially available CAE tools (20×), and it results in placements of quality similar to that of the commercial tools.
LC-IMS-MS Feature Finder: Detecting Multidimensional Liquid Chromatography, Ion Mobility, and Mass Spectrometry Features in Complex Datasets

Motivation: The addition of ion mobility spectrometry to liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry experiments requires new, or updated, software tools to facilitate data processing. Results: We introduce a command line software application LC-IMSMS Feature Finder that searches for molecular ion signatures in multidimensional liquid chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry (LC-IMS-MS) data by clustering deisotoped peaks with similar monoisotopic mass, charge state, LC elution time and ion mobility drift time values. The software application includes an algorithm for detecting and quantifying co-eluting chemical species, including species that exist in multiple conformations that may have been separated in the IMS dimension. Availability: LC-IMS-MS Feature Finder is available as a commandline tool for download at http://omics.pnl.gov/software/LC-IMS-MS_ Feature_Finder.php. The Microsoft.NET Framework 4.0 is required to run the software. All other dependencies are included with the software package. Usage of this software is limited to non-profit research
A chromosome-based method to infer IBD scores for missing and ambiguous markers.

We propose a probability model to impute missing identical-by-descent (IBD) vectors for linkage analysis, when adjacent marker loci are typed and interference is estimable. A chromosome-based IBD distribution, conditioned on available marker data, is computed using a fast algorithm to estimate the joint probability of genes IBD at several equally spaced linked loci. Weighted IBD vectors are then used in various test statistics for linkage analysis. As an example, we analyzed the 18 affected sib pairs in the GAW9 Problem 1 data set using Risch's lod-score test. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The stages of flank ectoderm capable of responding to ridge induction in the chick embryo

Reports on the stages when chick flank ectoderm can respond to ridge induction are contradictory. Different results have been obtained using presumptive wing or leg bud mesoderm as the inducing tissue with flank ectoderm as the responding tissue. In addition, although incomplete outgrowths have been obtained from recombinants with stage-19 flank ectoderm in a small percentage of cases, no complete outgrowths have been obtained from recombinants with ectoderm older than stage 18. We reinvestigated when chick flank ectoderm can respond to ridge induction and promote outgrowth of complete limbs. To do this, we combined flank ectoderm with in situ chick presumptive wing bud mesoderm using a pre-limb bud recombinant technique. When presumptive wing bud ectoderm was removed from the host and not replaced, wing development was suppressed. When host ectoderm was replaced with stage-15 through -18 chick flank ectoderm, limbs grew out in all cases; 86.4% of these recombinant limbs were distally complete. Stage-19 flank ectoderm formed a ridge and promoted limb outgrowth in 80.9% of recombinants; 52.9% of these were distally complete limbs. Recombinants made by grafting early stage-20 (40-somite donor) flank ectoderm to stage-15 hosts resulted in outgrowths in 60% of the cases and 33.3% of these were distally complete. Graft ectoderm from older donors did not respond to inductive mesoderm. Our results demonstrate that chick flank ectoderm from stage-15 through early stage-20 donors can respond to inductive signals from presumptive wing bud mesoderm to form an apical ridge. This ridge can promote outgrowth of distally complete wings in a substantial proportion of recombinants. This is two stages beyond when the ability to promote outgrowth of distally complete wings appeared to be lost using other methods.
Impact of infertility on quality of life, marital adjustment, and sexual function

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the hypothesis that infertility may result in a decrease in quality of life and an increase in marital discord and sexual dysfunction. The burden of infertility is physical, psychological, emotional, and financial. Methods Couples seeking treatment for infertility were asked to complete standardized validated questionnaires assessing quality of life (Quality of Well-Being Scale-Self Administered, version 1.04), marital adjustment (Locke-Wallace Marital Adjustment Test), and sexual function (Brief Index of Sexual Functioning for Women and International Index of Erectile Function for men). Couples seeking elective sterilization served as the control subjects. Results Eighteen infertile couples and 12 couples seeking elective sterilization participated in the study. The mean age, years together, and household income were comparable. Infertile couples had made a mean of 14.5 office visits for infertility, and 83% of couples reported feeling societal pressures to conceive. The Marital Adjustment Test scores for the women of the infertile couples were significantly lower than the scores of the controls ( P = 0.01); however no difference was noted in the men. A trend toward lower quality-of-life scores was noted in women ( P = 0.09) but not in the men of infertile couples. No statistically significant impact on sexual functioning in women was noted; however, the men in the infertile couples had lower total International Index of Erectile Function scores ( P = 0.05) and intercourse satisfaction scores ( P = 0.03). Conclusions Women in infertile couples reported poor marital adjustment and quality of life compared with controls. Men may experience less intercourse satisfaction, perhaps because of the psychological pressure to try to conceive or because of the forced timing of intercourse around the woman's ovulatory cycle.
Arrestin Expression in E. coli and Purification

Purified arrestin proteins are necessary for biochemical, biophysical, and crystallographic studies of these versatile regulators of cell signaling. Here we describe a basic protocol for expression in E. coli and purification of tag-free wild type and mutant arrestins. The method includes ammonium sulfate precipitation of arrestins from cell lysates, followed by heparin-Sepharose chromatography. Depending on the arrestin type and/or mutations, this step is followed by Q-Sepharose or SP-Sepharose chromatography. In many cases the non-binding column is used as a pre-filter to bind contaminants without retaining arrestin. In some cases both chromatographic steps need to be performed sequentially to achieve high purity. Purified arrestins can be concentrated up to 10 mg/ml, remain fully functional, and can withstand several cycles of freezing and thawing, provided that overall salt concentration is kept at or above physiological levels.
Propagation efficiency of long-period Lg waves in the South American continent

SUMMARY We investigate the propagation-efficiency characteristics of long-period (3-12 s) Lg waves in continental South America as recorded in the last few years on stations of the GTSN, IRIS/USGS, IRISiIDA and GEOSCOPE networks. This paper reports the results of a first look at the available Lg data for events with M,>5.0 from 1990 to 1995. In this period seven main seismic events and aftershocks along the length of the Andes produced a total of 29 usable paths from which preliminary results indicate that (1) long-period Lg waves are unusually prominent in seismograms of continental paths covering the shield areas of South America, and are clearly observed on broad-band instruments at epicentral distances exceeding 3500 km, (2) Lg propagation is substantially attenuated (weak or absent) for paths along the strike of the Andes and along the three active volcanic chains of Chile, Peru and Colombia, (3) away from the active volcanoes, the data show Lg propagating more efficiently across than along the strike of the Andes, and (4) in general, the ratio of the transverse to the vertical components of the Lg phase decreases with decreasing propagation efficiency. These first results also raise a number of exciting questions regarding the exploration of the crustal waveguide in South America, such as the potential for Lgbased tomography to detect a postulated fossil plume in southeastern Brazil, or how the propagation efficiency of high-frequency Lg in volcanically active areas may be used to detect magma chambers. Consequently, we intend to carry out a systematic study of Lg in the continent as part of the ongoing Surface-wave Inversion for the South American Lithosphere (SISAL) project, a collaborative effort (Vdovin et al. 1996) to determine the crustal and lithospheric structure of the South American Plate from measurements of surface-wave dispersion in the period range 2-200 s.
Individual and Environmental Effects on Assaults and Nonviolent Rule Breaking by Women in Prison

Drawing from micro- and macro-level theories of social control, the authors examined inmate and facility effects on the prevalence of assaults and nonviolent rule infractions committed by female inmates housed in state correctional facilities during 1991 and 1997. Analyses of national samples of more than 2,200 women confined in roughly 40 facilities produced results favoring a control perspective. Characteristics of both inmates (e.g., family status, history of physical or sexual abuse, drug use immediately prior to incarceration, and mental ill health) and facilities (e.g., crowding and security level) were relevant for understanding differences among female inmates in the odds of both assault and nonviolent misconduct.
Statistical investigation of errors in particle image velocimetry

The accuracy of the Particle Image Velocimetry technique was investigated using synthetic images having known characteristics. Algorithms were developed to process images automatically without operator assistance. This allowed to parametrically investigate the influence of the various parameters (image contrast, image noise, particle density, distribution of sizes of particles and particle displacement between frames) on the accuracy of the technique. It was found that as long as the images have a good contrast, particle locations can be determined with sub-pixel accuracy and particle velocities can be determined within a few percent.The accuracy of the Particle Image Velocimetry technique was investigated using synthetic images having known characteristics. Algorithms were developed to process images automatically without operator assistance. This allowed to parametrically investigate the influence of the various parameters (image contrast, image noise, particle density, distribution of sizes of particles and particle displacement between frames) on the accuracy of the technique. It was found that as long as the images have a good contrast, particle locations can be determined with sub-pixel accuracy and particle velocities can be determined within a few percent.
Kinetic Mechanism for the Sequential Binding of Two Single-Stranded Oligodeoxynucleotides to the Escherichia coli Rep Helicase Dimer †

Escherichia coli Rep helicase is a DNA motor protein that unwinds duplex DNA as a dimeric enzyme. Using fluorescence probes positioned asymmetrically within a series of single-stranded (ss) oligodeoxynucleotides, we show that ss-DNA binds with a defined polarity to Rep monomers and to individual subunits of the Rep dimer. Using fluorescence resonance energy transfer and stopped-flow techniques, we have examined the mechanism of ss-oligodeoxynucleotide binding to preformed Rep dimers in which one binding site is occupied by a single-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide, while the other site is free (P2S dimer). We show that ss-DNA binding to the P2S Rep dimer to form the doubly ligated P2S2 dimer occurs by a multistep process with the initial binding step occurring relatively rapidly with a bimolecular rate constant of k1 )2 10 6 M -1 s -1 (20 mM Tris (pH 7.5), 6 mM NaCl, 5 mM MgCl 2, 5 mM 2-mercaptoethanol, and 10% (v/v) glycerol, 4 °C). A minimal kinetic mechanism is proposed which suggests that the two strands of ss-DNA bound to the Rep homodimer are kinetically distinct even within the P2S2 Rep dimer, indicating that this dimer is functionally asymmetric. The implications of these results for the mechanisms of DNA unwinding and translocation by the functional Rep dimer are discussed. DNA helicases are a class of motor proteins that use energy derived from nucleoside 5'-triphosphate (NTP) bind- ing, hydrolysis, and release of hydrolyzed products (NDP + PO4 2- ) to separate duplex DNA into its two complemen- tary single strands and to translocate along the DNA. As such, these enzymes are required in nearly all aspects of
New approach to local thermodilution: use of pig tail catheters to avoid basic difficulties

The use of pig tail catheters and the placing of the thermistor distal to the lumen for the cold injectate have allowed the development of a new catheter for local thermodilution with many advantages. Apart from its small size and possibility of percutaneous introduction, the spatial orientation of the thermistor to the rest of the catheter and to the port of injection ensures: (a) its absolute thermal insulation; (b) avoidance of contact with vessel walls: and (c) constant spatial relationship between the lumen for injection and the thermistor as regards the dynamics of flow and temperature change.
Common waterhemp (Amaranthus rudis) interference in soybean

Abstract Common waterhemp has become a problem weed species in Midwest soybean production. Determining the critical interference period after soybean and common waterhemp emergence is necessary for the implementation of weed control practices before soybean seed yield loss occurs. Field experiments were conducted during 1996, 1997, and 1998 to determine the influence of duration of common waterhemp interference on soybean seed yield. Removal of common waterhemp 2 wk after soybean unifoliolate leaf expansion resulted in soybean seed yield equivalent to a season-long weed-free control. Delaying common waterhemp removal until 4 wk after soybean unifoliolate leaf expansion resulted in decreased soybean seed yield. Allowing common waterhemp interference to persist 10 wk after soybean unifoliolate leaf expansion reduced soybean seed yield by an average of 43% over 3 yr. These results suggest that soybean producers should implement common waterhemp management strategies earlier than 4 wk after soybean unifoliola...
π donation and its effects on the excited-state lifetimes of luminescent platinum(II) terpyridine complexes in solution.

Introducing electron-donating groups extends the excited-state lifetimes of platinum(II)–terpyridine complexes in fluid solution. Such systems are of interest for a variety of applications, viz., as DNA-binding agents or as components in luminescence-based devices, especially sensors. The complexes investigated here are of the form [Pt(4′-X-T)Y]+, where 4′-X-T denotes a 4′-substituted 2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine ligand and Y denotes the coligand. The π-donating abilities of −X and −Y increase systematically in the orders −NHMe < −NMe2 < −(pyrrolidin-1-yl) and −CN < −Cl < −CCPh, respectively. The results presented include crystal structures of two new 4′-NHMe-T complexes of platinum, as well as absorption, emission, and excited-state lifetime data for nine complexes. Excited-state lifetimes obtained in deoxygenated dichloromethane vary by a factor of 100, ranging from 24 μs for [Pt(4′-pyrr-T)CN]+ to 0.24 μs for [Pt(4′-ma-T)Cl]+, where ma-T denotes 4′-(methylamino)-2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridine and pyrr-T denotes 4′-(p...
Epitaxial Zintl aluminide SrAl 4 grown on a LaAlO 3 substrate

Zintl phases are a class of intermetallic materials that have simultaneously ionic and covalent bonding resulting from charge transfer between two different atomic species. We present a combined first principles and experimental study of Zintl-phase SrAl${}_{4}$, which is grown in thin film form on the perovskite oxide LaAlO${}_{3}$ using molecular beam epitaxy. The structural properties are investigated using reflection-high-energy electron diffraction, x-ray diffraction, and cross-section transmission electron microscopy, which reveal relaxed epitaxial island growth. Photoelectron spectroscopy measurements verify the Zintl-Klemm nature of the bonding in the material and are utilized to determine the band offset and the work function of SrAl${}_{4}$, while transport measurements confirm its metallic behavior. The experimentally observed properties are confirmed using density functional calculations.
Diagnostic pitfalls in gastrointestinal and hepatic pathology

Many of us learn very effectively from mistakes that we have made, and from trying to avoid repeating our errors. Although many textbooks, scientific articles, and courses are available that address the differential diagnoses of pathological entities encountered in the practice of GI and hepatic pathology, there are very few resources that address specific errors encountered during daily, ‘real-life’ practice (both in the evaluation of biopsies and surgical specimens). Furthermore, the increased use of endoscopy in the evaluation of patients with gastrointestinal complaints has resulted in a tremendous increase in the variety and complexity of diseases encountered by surgical pathologists. In addition, if the endoscopy is performed at a location remote from the pathologist, obtaining essential clinical and endoscopic information can be very difficult (which may in turn contribute to the likelihood of making an error). This lecture will address some common mistakes and pitfalls in the diagnosis of GI and hepatic pathology, using specific problematic cases that illustrate errors and pitfalls.
Cotton Rat Invasion of Sand Pine Scrub Habitat

Cotton rats ( Sigmodon hispidus ) invaded sand pine scrub in central Florida in 1974. One episode of dispersal was observed in January–March and a second commenced in May and ceased in November. Invasion was not observed on three study grids during 1973, 1975, or 1976. Small numbers of immigrant cotton rats settled on the grids during 1974 and breeding took place; however, 60% of the individuals tagged and released were not recaptured. These latter animals were presumed to have continued to disperse. Supplemental food on one of the study grids did not prevent the decline of cotton rats in 1974. The sand pine scrub appeared to have acted as a dispersal sink for cotton rats which underwent dispersal from more optimal habitat in surrounding pine flatwoods. Dispersing animals were healthy, equally divided between the sexes, and included all weight classes.
Obstetrics and gynecology final examination scores at university and community hospitals. A comparison.

OBJECTIVE: To determine if there were differences in standard obstetrics and gynecology final examination scores for students whose clerkships were at either the university or one of five community hospitals. STUDY DESIGN: All students taking their obstetrics and gynecology clerkship from July 1995 to June 1998 were included in the analysis. The clerkship was eight weeks in length. All sites had four weeks of obstetrics and four of gynecology. Six sites were utilized--five community and one university. University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) residents rotated to two of the community hospitals. Two of the remaining three hospitals had freestanding obstetrics and gynecology residency programs. Core lectures were provided for five of six sites at the university; one site gave its own series of similar topics. Comparisons were made with respect to obstetrics and gynecology final examination scores (National Board type). United States Medical Licensure Examination (USMLE) scores were evaluated to determine whether a control with respect to test performance was needed. Only the first attempt for either examination was evaluated. Student's t test and one-way analysis of variance were used as indicated. Significance was set at P < .05. RESULTS: Five hundred twenty-two students were included in the analysis. There was no difference with respect to obstetrics and gynecology examination scores between the combined community and university hospitals. There were no significant differences between sites for obstetrics/gynecologic scores when evaluated using USMLE step I scores as a control. The presence of UIC residents and higher final examination scores was significant (3.6 points, P < .024). The presence of obstetrics and gynecology residents and higher final examination scores was also significant (2.5 points, P < .035). CONCLUSION: The type of hospital (community vs. university) does not appear to affect obstetrics and gynecology final examination performance, but the presence of obstetrics and gynecology residents may positively affect student performance on final examinations, with a greater benefit noted in facilities with university-based residents.
Use of systemic antibiotics in the burned patient

A diagnosis of clinical sepsis is the primary indication for administration of systemic antibiotics. Choices of antibiotics for sepsis, where cultures are unavailable, requires a knowledge of current strains in the unit where the patient resides and coverage for both Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas. Dosage requirements are increased in burned patients and serum antibiotic levels must be monitored for maximal effectiveness and minimal toxicity. Localized foci of infection must be identified and eradicated with regional antibiotic therapy or surgery when possible. Gram-negative pneumonia in the patient with an inhalation injury poses special difficulties in therapy. Resistance to antibiotics must be constantly guarded against and isolation procedures followed to avoid its propagation in the burn unit. Combination drug regimens and plasmid-directed therapy may in the future slow down the acquisition of further antibiotic resistance and lead to improved salvage of severely burned patients.
Pericardial fat necrosis

Pericardial fat necrosis has a highly characteristic clinical picture that enables a preoperative diagnosis to be made on clinical grounds. Surgical therapy, which remains the treatment of choice for this curable entity, confirms the diagnosis. This report reviews the literature and adds a thirteenth documented case to the previously reported 12 cases.