cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Performance Comparison of Parameter Estimation Techniques for the Quantitation of Local Cerebral Blood Flow by Dynamic Positron Computed Tomography

Local CBF (LCBF) can be quantitated from positron computed tomographic (PCT) data and physiologically based mathematical models by several general methods. Those using a dynamic sequence of PCT scans allow the simultaneous estimation of both LCBF and p, the indicator's tissue–blood partition coefficient. This article presents a comparison of three rapid estimation techniques for use with inert diffusible radioindicators and serial PCT, each of which is based on the original Kety model. One method, developed in our laboratory, involves minimizing the mean squared discrepancy between measured data and model predictions, whereas the other two methods, recently reported in the literature, are weighted integration techniques that involve multiplying the measured data by time-dependent weighting functions. Simulation studies of noise propagation and other sources of error were performed under a variety of simulated conditions. Functional images of LCBF and p were calculated using each method for both phantom an...
Intrauterine device use and the risk of pre-eclampsia: a case-control study.

Objective To determine the association between intrauterine device (IUD) use, timing of removal prior to pregnancy, and the risk of pre-eclampsia. Design A case–control study within the Clinical Practice Research Datalink, UK. Setting Medical record database in the UK. Sample Cases of pre-eclampsia (n = 2744) were identified among pregnancies resulting in singleton deliveries from 1993 to 2010. Four controls, or pregnancies unaffected by pre-eclampsia, were matched to each case on maternal age, general practice, and year of delivery. Methods Data on IUD use were obtained from patient records. The odds ratios (ORs) for the association between IUD and pre-eclampsia were adjusted for covariates identified a priori, and analyses were stratified by BMI and number of prior deliveries. Main outcome measures Odds ratios (95% confidence intervals, 95% CIs) of pre-eclampsia in pregnancies among women with a history of IUD use, compared with women without a history of IUD use. Results Prior IUD use was associated with a reduced risk of pre-eclampsia (OR 0.76; 95% CI 0.58–0.98). The timing of removal in relation to the start of pregnancy showed an inverse association, with shorter intervals associated with a larger decrease in risk of pre-eclampsia. IUD removal within a year prior to pregnancy had an OR of 0.68 (95% CI 0.46–1.00). Among women with a prior delivery, the association between IUD use and pre-eclampsia was null. Conclusions Intrauterine device use is associated with a small decreased risk of pre-eclampsia, specifically if removed within the year prior to conception. Tweetable abstract A case–control study of pregnancies in the UK suggests a reduced risk of pre-eclampsia for former IUD users.
Position in the Peer Group's Perceived Organizational Structure: Relation to Social Status and Friendship

Position in the perceived peer group organization was assessed using a multidimensional scaling strategy and was compared with measures of social status and mutual friendship in a sample of 404 fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students. Perceived organization position was correlated significantly to social preference, like-most nominations, and like-least nominations but not to social impact. Furthermore, peer-group members who were marginal in the perceived structure were more likely to have a rejected status and to be friendless, whereas those in a central position were more likely to be popular and have at least one friend. Most rejected students, however, were not marginal in the perceived structure. Marginal-rejected group members, compared with nonmarginalrejected individuals, had more negative scores on social status measures. It was hypothesized that studying the overlap between position in the group’s perceived organization and social status might be useful for discriminating types of rejected children and adolescents.
The Meaning of Money in the Socialization of Science and Engineering Doctoral Students: Nurturing the Next Generation of Academic Capitalists?

Based on ethnographic interviews with 48 doctoral students and 22 faculty members in science and engineering, this study examines the ways in which doctoral students and faculty make market, symbolic, and social meaning of the presence or absence of money in doctoral student socialization and of funding from governmental and industrial sources. Findings indicate that the culture of science and engineering doctoral education often gives rise to the training of the next generation of academic capitalists, a process that is sometimes contested by students and faculty. Implications are presented for universities, departments, and funding agencies. Based on ethnographic interviews with 48 doctoral students and 22 faculty members in science and engineering, this study examines the ways in which doctoral students and faculty make market, symbolic, and social meaning of the presence or absence of money in doctoral student socialization and of funding from governmental and industrial sources. Findings indicate that the culture of science and engineering doctoral education often gives rise to the training of the next generation of academic capitalists, a process that is sometimes contested by students and faculty. Implications are presented for universities, departments, and funding agencies.
Strength of left-handedness and facial recognition ability.

Summary Facial recognition ability was tested in groups of left-handed and right-handed subjects; strength of handedness was assessed by a hand-usage questionnaire and by dexterity testing. Weakly left-handed persons scored significantly lower in facial recognition ability than all others. The results support the general hypothesis that decreased cerebral lateralization of function is associated with slight impairment of non-verbal, visual-spatial skills of the minor hemisphere.
Estimated prevalence of paratuberculosis in Missouri, USA cattle

Abstract An absorbed ELISA for detection of antibodies against Mycobacterium paratuberculosis was performed on serum samples obtained from the Missouri Animal Health Laboratory. Samples from 1954 Missouri cattle representing 89 herds were randomly selected from samples submitted for brucellosis testing. The apparent seroprevalence of paratuberculosis in dairy cattle (8 ± 3%) was similar to that in beef cattle (5 ± 2%). When herds were classified as dairy or beef, 74% (14 of 19) of dairy herds and 40% (27 of 68) of beef herds were positive.
Manganese oxide dissociation kinetics for the Mn2O3 thermochemical water-splitting cycle. Part 1: Experimental

It is shown that the dissociation of Mn2O3 to MnO in a short residence time aerosol flow reactor can achieve high conversions approaching 75% when the concentration of oxygen is kept below 0.25%. Significant recombination reaction occurs when the oxygen content exceeds ∼0.25% by volume. A dual reaction mechanism for Mn2O3 dissociation was found: RAvrami−Erofeev=−A1e−Ea,1/RTn(1−X)[−ln(1−X)](n−1)/nRAvrami−Erofeev=−A1e−Ea,1/RTn(1−X)[−ln(1−X)](n−1)/n ROrder_of_reaction=−A2e−Ea,2/RT(1−X)nROrder_of_reaction=−A2e−Ea,2/RT(1−X)n with the transition from one mechanism to the other occurring at an extent of reaction of approximately 0.6. Rate constants for the two mechanisms were calculated to be 1.8×107±1.3×107 and 5.6×103±4.1×103 s−1, respectively, for oxygen concentration<0.25%. High levels of dissociation are achievable when the reaction is carried out in an inert gas environment using a reactor configuration that limits the reverse reaction.
Developmental and Nutritional Status of Internationally Adopted Children

Objectives: To assess the relationship between developmental status of international adoptees at the time of entry into the United States and their nutritional status and concurrent medical problems. Design: Prospective study. Setting/Patients: One hundred twenty-nine internationally adopted children attending the International Adoption Clinic at the Floating Hospital for Children, Boston, Mass, underwent detailed developmental assessments, anthropometric measurements, and medical examinations. Results: The anthropometric measurements of the international adoptees were below the means for weight, height, and head circumference based on standards of the World Health Organization. Only 65 children (50%) were developmentally normal. Gross motor delays were identified in 43 children (33%), fine motor delays in 52 (40%), language delays in 23 (18%), cognitive delays in 21 (16%), and global delays in 18 (14%). The severity of delays were related to z scores for weight, height, and head circumference. The 36 children with medical problems had lower z scores compared with healthy children and were more likely to have delayed development. Conclusions: Careful developmental and growth screening of internationally adopted children at entry into the United States identifies children in need of interventions and close follow-up. Longitudinal studies of internationally adopted children may provide evidence about the reversibility of growth and developmental delays, findings applicable to any environmentally deprived child. (Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 1995;149:40-44)
Viral spread through protoplasmic kiss

Cajal described the neural synapse as a “protoplasmic kiss”, and this metaphor applies equally well to the immunological synapse. Viruses are masters at co-opting the machinery of the immune response and, remarkably, the retrovirus HTLV-1 (human T lymphotrophic virus 1) seems to use an immunological-synapse-like structure to conceal viral spread.
The Role of Mandates in Third Party Intervention

Mandate, as a noun, is the charge that authorizes and legitimizes an intervenor's actions. The intervenor may act at the bidding of the disputants or of third party stakeholders. Mandate provides a functional taxonomy of intervenors—from go-betweens to conciliators to mediators to arbitrators to dictators. Mandate affords a perspective for analyzing initiation, process, and evaluation of intervention. Useful heuristics have been proposed for categorizing the ways in which intervenors restricted to persuasion, such as mediators, can attempt to change beliefs. Future work might seek to determine conditions under which an intervenor's persuasive abilities may change beliefs about available alternatives, about the probability that the alternative will lead to certain outcomes, and about the value of the outcome.
The role of short-term oxygen administration in the prevention of intimal hyperplasia

Objective Intimal hyperplasia (IH) is the cause of most failed arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), resulting in repeat procedures and leading to increased utilization of scarce health care resources. Our laboratory has previously demonstrated the role of supplemental oxygen in preventing IH and smooth muscle cell proliferation (SMCp) at an artery-to-graft anastomosis and at the deployment site of an intra-arterial stent. This study examines the effect of supplemental oxygen in preventing IH and SMCp in an AVF in a rabbit model. Methods Ninety-six rabbits were randomized into four groups: group 1, control; group 2, no surgery with supplemental oxygen; group 3, AVF without supplemental oxygen; and group 4, AVF with supplemental oxygen. Rabbits receiving supplemental oxygen received 30% oxygen for up to 42 days. Specimens were collected in all groups at days 1, 3, 7, 21, 42, and 90. IH and SMCp were measured at the AVF site as well as in the artery and vein proximal and distal to the AVF. Results IH was first noted at day 7 and significantly increased through day 90 at all locations in the nonoxygen-supplemented groups. No significant IH was noted in the oxygen-supplemented group at any location or any time point. SMCp was noted at day 3 through day 21 in the nonoxygen-supplemented group, whereas almost no SMCp was noted in the oxygen-supplemented group at any location or time point. Conclusions Without oxygen supplementation, SMCp begins at day 3 and is no longer noted at day 21 after creation of an AVF, whereas IH begins by day 7 and increases at least through day 90 after creation of an AVF. Forty-two days of 30% supplemental oxygen inhibits IH and SCMp after creation of an AVF. These data suggest a role for the short-term administration of low-dose O 2 to prevent both IH and SMCp after creation of an AVF that may prolong patency and function.
Gametocidal factor-induced structural rearrangements in rye chromosomes added to common wheat.

The gametocidal factor on the Aegilops cylindrical chromosome 2Cc was used to induce and analyze the nature of chromosomal rearrangements in rye chromosomes added to wheat. For this purpose we isolated plants disomic for a given rye chromosome and monosomic for 2Cc and analyzed their progenies cytologically. Rearranged rye chromosomes were identified in 7% of the progenies and consisted of rye deficiencies (4.6%), wheat–rye dicentric and rye ring chromosomes (1.8%), and terminal translocations (0.6%). The dicentric and ring chromosomes initiated breakage–fusion–bridge cycles (BFB) that ceased within a few weeks after germination as the result of chromosome healing. Of 56 rye deficiencies identified, after backcrossing and selfing, only 33 were recovered in either homozygous or heterozygous condition covering all rye chromosomes except 7R. The low recovery rate is probably caused by the presence of multiple rearrangements induced in the wheat genome that resulted in poor plant vigor and seed set, low transmission, and an underestimation of the frequency of wheat–rye dicentric chromosomes. Genomic in-situ hybridization (GISH) analysis of the 33 recovered rye deficiencies revealed that 30 resulted from a single break in one chromosome arm followed by the loss of the segment distal to the breakpoint. Only three had a wheat segment attached distal to the breakpoint. Although some of the Gc-induced rye rearrangements were derived from BFB cycles, all of the recovered rye rearrangements were simple in structure. The healing of the broken chromosome ends was achieved either by the de-novo addition of telomeric repeats leading to deficiencies and telocentric chromosomes or by the fusion with other broken ends in the form of stable monocentric terminal translocation chromosomes.
Reflective Teaching: A Literature Review

Recent attention has focused on the development of reflective teachers. Teacher educators have developed and used several reflective strategies, programs, and models to enhance preservice and in-service teachers' reflective abilities. The purpose of this article is to describe and comment on the different perspectives regarding theory and research on reflective teaching. This paper focused on three dimensions: (a) an account of the conceptual alternatives and theoretical traditions of reflection, (b) an overview of practical and empirical efforts on reflection in classroom and physical education settings, and (c) methodological issues and recommendations for future research.
Audiotape and videotape materials for professional development in mental health

Audio and visual material can enhance components of career development and education focused upon employee training and improvement of public services.
Discharge of Solids from Fish Ponds

Abstract Water samples were collected from effluents of fish ponds and analyzed for settleable, nonsettleable, and suspended solids. Fish biomass in ponds was not consistently associated with amounts of settleable or nonsettleable solids, but was correlated with amounts of suspended solids. The amount of solids discharged was relatively small, suggesting little or no pollution of receiving waters.
Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful: Acknowledging appearance mitigates the “beauty is beastly” effect

Physically attractive women are discriminated against when applying for masculine sex-typed jobs, a phenomenon known as the beauty is beastly effect. We conducted three studies to establish an intervention for mitigating the beauty is beastly effect and to determine mediators and moderators of the intervention. As expected, physically attractive women were rated higher in employment suitability when they acknowledged that their sex or physical appearance is incongruent with the typical applicant for a masculine sex-typed job. Acknowledgement increased inferences of positive masculine traits, allowing the female applicant to be perceived as more suitable for the job, while reducing perceptions that she possessed countercommunal traits, decreasing the violation of her gender role. Finally, sexist beliefs interacted with the acknowledgment intervention, such that the acknowledgement intervention reduced the negative relationship between hostile sexism and employment suitability and increased the positive relationship between benevolent sexism and employment suitability, relative to the control condition.
Clopidogrel treatment and the incidence and severity of community acquired pneumonia in a cohort study and meta-analysis of antiplatelet therapy in pneumonia and critical illness.

Platelet activation results in the release and upregulation of mediators responsible for immune cell activation and recruitment, suggesting that platelets play an active role in immunity. Animal models and retrospective data have demonstrated benefit of antiplatelet therapy on inflammatory mediator expression and clinical outcomes. This study sought to characterize effects of clopidogrel on the incidence and severity of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). A retrospective cohort study was conducted of Kentucky Medicaid patients (2001–2005). The exposed cohort consisted of patients receiving at least six consecutive clopidogrel prescriptions; the non-exposed cohort was comprised of patients not prescribed clopidogrel. Primary endpoints included incidence of CAP and inpatient treatment. Secondary severity endpoints included mortality, intensive care unit admission, mechanical ventilation, sepsis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome/acute lung injury. CAP incidence was significantly greater in the exposed cohort (OR 3.39, 95 % CI 3.27–3.51, p < 0.0001) that remained after adjustment (OR 1.48, 95 % CI 1.41–1.55, p < 0.0001). Inpatient treatment was more common in the exposed cohort (OR 1.96, 95 % CI 1.85–2.07, p < 0.0001), but no significant difference remained after adjustment. Trends favoring the exposed cohort were found for the secondary severity endpoints of mechanical ventilation (p = 0.07) and mortality (p = 0.10). Pooled analysis of published studies supports these findings. While clopidogrel use may be associated with increased CAP incidence, clopidogrel does not appear to increase—and may reduce—its severity among inpatients. Because this study was retrospective and could not quantify all variables (e.g., aspirin use), these findings should be explored prospectively.
Fire exclusion and nitrogen mineralization in low elevation forests of western Montana

Abstract Little is known regarding how fire exclusion influences nitrogen (N) cycling in low elevation forests of western Montana. Nor is it clear how the change in fire frequency that has resulted from forest management has influenced ecosystem function in terms of plant–soil–microbe interactions. A fire chronosequence approach was used to examine the influence of forest succession on soil biochemical properties and microbimal activity at 10 sites with varying time since fire (2–130 years). The rate of decomposition of buried tongue depressors and cotton strips, was found to decrease significantly (R2=0.410, P=0.087 and R2=0.761, P=0.003, respectively) with time since fire (TSF). Net N mineralization and nitrification, as estimated by resin sorbed NH 4 + and NO 3 − concentrations, both exhibited significant non-linear decreases (R2=0.870, P=0.000 and R2=0.620, P=0.007, respectively) with TSF. Nitrification potential measured using an aerated soil slurry method, also decreased significantly (R2=0.595, P=0.009) with TSF. These decreases in N availability along with an increase in the metabolic quotient and a decrease in labile C pools with TSF indicated a decline in substrate quality and microbial activity with secondary forest succession. The concentration of total phenols in mineral soil showed no significant trend with TSF, but was negatively correlated (R2=0.486, P=0.025) with resin sorbed NO 3 − concentration indicating either enhanced immobilization or perhaps chemical inhibition. These results imply that biochemical processes (decomposition and N transformations) may be limited by the lack of available substrate and potentially as a result of rapid immobilization, chemical inhibition or a combination of both at least partially induced by changes in vegetation with TSF. Our results suggest that N availability in ponderosa pine ecosystems of the inland Northwest are directly dependent upon fire history and secondary successional stage.
A phylogenetic reappraisal of the birdwing genus Ornithoptera (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae: Troidini) and a new theory of its evolution in relation to Gondwanan vicariance biogeography

The troidine papilionid genus Ornithoptera is shown to be distinct from Troides In order to reappraise the interrelationships of the member species of Ornithoptera, and to test the resultant theory of their evolution against biogeographical data, the genus is revised using Hennigian cladistic methodology through computer analysis. The input data for this was drawn equally from immature stages and adult characters. A single cladogram hypothesising the likely phylogeny of the Ornithoptera species was generated. With minor weighting of a single important adult character, a further two cladograms were generated, one of which is similar to hypotheses proposed by previous workers. Based on these findings, and on ecological data, notably larval foodplant relations with Aristolochiaceae, as well as present-day biogeographical data, a new theory of the origin and evolution of Ornithoptera is presented which fits well Gondwanan vicariance events ascertained by geological studies: essentially that Ornithoptera evolv...
Calculation of multicomponent liquid-liquid equilibrium with Renon's and Black's activity equations

The combination of optimization theory and thermodynamics was used to develop a fast, reliable computerized procedure for predicting or representing multicomponent liquid-liquid phase equilibrium. Both the Renon and Black activity coefficient equations were compared with experimental data using the procedure. Experimental data for three quarternary systems from the literature were examined. Prediction of ternary data from binary data is not very reliable, although ternary data can nearly always be represented by adjustment of the predicted binary constants. Quarternary data can be predicted from accurate ternary representations of similar species provided the additional compound is from the same family group. The Renon equation is recommended rather than the Black equation.
Experiments on the unsteady flow field and noise generation in a centrifugal pump impeller

Abstract This paper reports on an experimental investigation of large-scale flowfield instabilities in a pump rotor and the process of noise generation by these instabilities. Measurements of the fluctuating components of velocity and surface pressure were made with hot-wire probes and surface mounted pressure transducers on a seven bladed back swept centrifugal water pump impeller operating with air as the working fluid. The impeller was operated without a volute or scroll diffuser, thereby eliminating any sound generation from pressure fluctuations on the volute cutoff. Thus the study focused on flow field and noise components other than the blade passage frequency (and its harmonics). The primary goal of the study was to provide fundamental information on the unsteady flow processes, particularly those associated with the noise generation in the device. It was further anticipated that detailed flow measurements would be useful for the validation of future computational simulations. The measured data at the discharge show a jet-wake type of flow pattern which results in a strong vorticity field. The flow with high velocity found on the pressure side of the impeller tends to move to the low-pressure region present at the suction side of the passage as a form of roll-up around the blade trailing edge. This motion causes an unsteady flow separation at the suction side of the blade and consequently disturbs the flow in the adjacent passage. By interacting with the impeller blades near the trailing edges, this instability flow causes a periodic pressure fluctuation on the blade surface and generates noise by a trailing edge generation mechanism. The spectrum of surface pressure measured at the trailing edge of each blade reveals a cluster of peaks which were identified with azimuthal mode numbers. The correlation between the acoustic farfield pressure and the surface pressure on the impeller blade has proven that the azimuthal modes synchronized with the number of impeller blades generate noise much more efficiently than the other modes. The paper also clarifies the correlation between unsteady flowfield measurements, in both impeller and laboratory co-ordinates, with the radiated noise properties. Thus some light is shed on the noise generation mechanisms of this particular device.
Kidney transplant nephrotic syndrome: Relationship between allograft histopathology and natural course

Kidney transplant nephrotic syndrome: Relationship between allograft histopathology and natural course. We analyzed clinical and pathologic data from 36 recipients of 38 renal allografts who developed nephrotic syndrome following transplantation. Three groups were identified on the basis of histologic changes in the graft, and each group had a distinct clinical course. Nine grafts (23.7%) had recurrent glomerulonephritis (GN) (5 membrano-proliferative, 4 focal glomerulosclerosis) and developed nephrotic syndrome at 5.1 months (mean) posttransplant. Renal function deteriorated rapidly, with a 2-year graft survival of 29.7%. Four grafts (10.5%) with de novo GN (3 epimembranous, 1 minimal change) developed nephrotic syndrome at 32 months post-transplant, and all functioned for more than 3 years. Twenty-five grafts (65.8%) had allograft glomerulopathy with the onset of nephrotic syndrome at 9.1 months posttransplant and a 2-year graft survival of 66.6%. The differences in duration of graft function between grafts with allograft glomerulopathy and recurrent GN (P Syndrome nephrotique du rein transplante: Relations entre l'histopathologies de l'allogreffe et l'evolution. Nous avons analyse les dossiers cliniques et anatomo-pathologiques de 36 receveurs de 38 allogreffes qui ont developpe un syndrome nephrotique apres transplantation. Trois groupes ont ete identifies sur la base des modifications histologiques de la greffe et chaque groupe a eu une evolution distincte. Neuf greffes (23,7%) ont eu une recidive de glomerulonephrite (GN) (5 membrano-proliferatives, 4 glomeruloscleroses focales) et ont developpe un syndrome nephrotique 5,1 mois (moyenne) apres la transplantation. La fonction renale s'est deterioree rapidement, avec une survie de la greffe a 2 ans de 29,7%. Quatre greffes (10,5%) atteintes de GN nouvelle (3 extra-membraneuses, 1 a modifications minimes) ont developpe un syndrome nephrotique 32 mois apres la transplantation et ont toutes fonctionne plus de 3 ans. Vingt cinq greffes (65,8%) ont eu une glomerulopathie de greffe avec l'installation d'un syndrome nephrotique a 9,1 mois apres la transplantation et une survie de la greffe a 2 ans de 66,6%. Les differences de duree du fonctionnement de la greffe selon l'atteinte par une recidive de GN ou une glomerulopathie de greffe (P
Pointing from a third person avatar location: does dynamic feedback help?

The use of third-person self-avatars has become common in non-immersive virtual environments, due in part to the advantages of seeing a full body while moving around in space. However, little research has investigated how third-person self-avatars can benefit task performance in immersive virtual environments (IVEs). This paper explores a procedure that may enhance user ability to act in an IVE from the point of view of a self-avatar projected in front of the viewer. Such abilities could be crucial in applications such as remote operator control, when a third person view is necessary or is the only view available. We conducted an experiment to assess the role of dynamic visual-motor and haptic feedback with a third-person avatar on a user's ability to point to remembered targets from the location of the avatar. The dynamic condition was compared within-subjects to a static condition in which the user's movements were not tracked with the avatar but the same task was required. Overall, participants were relatively good at pointing to targets from the location of the avatar. However, participants in the dynamic condition showed pointing performance that corresponded more closely to the avatar's location than was the case in the static condition. Subjective reports of bodily self-perception were also included and showed increased self-identification, presence, and agency in the dynamic compared to the static condition.
Probabilistic Dominance Application to the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta

The concept of probabilistic dominance is developed for making multi-objective decisions where there is uncertainty regarding the performance of alternatives. This approach combines traditional the ideas of Pareto optimality and stochastic dominance for comparison of alternatives with both multiple criteria and uncertainty. A simple application is made for the strategic decision of an approach for continuing or ending water exports from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta in California.
Chemical and Sensory Properties of Sauerkraut Produced with Leuconostoc mesenteroides Starter Cultures of Differing Malolactic Phenotypes

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Simvastatin inhibits smoke-induced airway epithelial injury: implications for COPD therapy

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death. The statin drugs may have therapeutic potential in respiratory diseases such as COPD, but whether they prevent bronchial epithelial injury is unknown. We hypothesised that simvastatin attenuates acute tobacco smoke-induced neutrophilic lung inflammation and airway epithelial injury. Spontaneously hypertensive rats were given simvastatin (20 mg·kg(-1) i.p.) daily for either 7 days prior to tobacco smoke exposure and during 3 days of smoke exposure, or only during tobacco smoke exposure. Pretreatment with simvastatin prior to and continued throughout smoke exposure reduced the total influx of leukocytes, neutrophils and macrophages into the lung and airways. Simvastatin attenuated tobacco smoke-induced cellular infiltration into lung parenchymal and airway subepithelial and interstitial spaces. 1 week of simvastatin pretreatment almost completely prevented smoke-induced denudation of the airway epithelial layer, while simvastatin given only concurrently with the smoke exposure had no effect. Simvastatin may be a novel adjunctive therapy for smoke-induced lung diseases, such as COPD. Given the need for statin pretreatment there may be a critical process of conditioning that is necessary for statins' anti-inflammatory effects. Future work is needed to elucidate the mechanisms of this statin protective effect.
Microcomputer Monte Carlo electron transport codes for beta skin dose calculations

The adaptation of a one-dimensional Monte Carlo election transport program (called ZEBRA) for use on microcomputers in a program called Eltran2 is described. The purpose of this adaptation was to reduce the cost of the Monte Carlo calculations. Eltran2 has, in turn, been modified into a two-dimensional program called Eltran3 for computing the dose from a point or a disk source to a cylindrical target. For Monte Carlo calculations, theoretical beta energy spectra are calculated based on the Fermi beta decay theory. The calculated average energies of spectra agree with the values in related publications to within 6%. An extended study has been done using Eltran2 and Eltran3 to facilitate the design of, a beta/gamma skin dose monitor. The programs calculate the effects of angular distribution of source electrons and the radial distribution of the hot particle dose. It is found that the hot particle dose averaged over a live skin area of 1 cm/sup 2/ significantly underestimates the real dose value at the very small area just under the hot particle by a factor of about 1000. >
Difficulty of Imagining Others' Behaviors and Expectations About Future Interactions

How do people know what interacting with others would be like? This research examines how subjective feelings of difficulty in imagination can influence judgments in the context of social interaction. Participants imagined behaviors of members of a group while difficulty of imagination was manipulated, and reported outlook of future interactions with them. Study 1 revealed that after imagining target group members' reactions in situations that are inherently more difficult, participants had more negative outlook of future interaction with them. Perceived difficulty of imagination partly explained this effect. In Study 2, when incidentality of the association between the situations and the target group was made explicit, the outlook of future interaction with the targets was less negative. The findings extend research on metacognition to interpersonal context while offering several interesting contrasts with previous studies. Limitations and possible future directions are discussed.
Specificity Requirements for Human Telomere Protein Interaction with Telomerase Holoenzyme

Human telomeres are maintained by the enzyme telomerase, which uses a template within its integral RNA subunit (hTR) and telomerase reverse transcriptase protein (TERT) to accomplish the synthesis of single-stranded DNA repeats. Many questions remain unresolved about the cellular regulation of telomerase subunits and the fully assembled telomerase holoenzyme, including the basis for the specificity of binding and acting on telomeres. Previous studies have revealed that the telomere protein TPP1 is necessary for stable TERT and hTR association with telomeres in vivo. Here, we expand the biochemical characterization and understanding of TPP1 interaction with TERT and the catalytically active telomerase holoenzyme. Using extracts from human cells, we show that TPP1 interacts sequence-specifically with TERT when TERT is assembled into holoenzyme context. In holoenzyme context, the TERT N-terminal domain mediates a TPP1 interaction. Assays of stable subunit complexes purified after their cellular assembly suggest that other telomere proteins do not necessarily influence TPP1 association with telomerase holoenzyme or alter its impact on elongation processivity. We show that a domain of recombinant TPP1 comprised of an oligonucleotide/oligosaccharide binding fold recapitulates the full-length protein interaction specificity for the TERT N-terminal domain assembled into telomerase holoenzyme. By global analysis of TPP1 side chain requirements for holoenzyme association, we demonstrate a selective requirement for the amino acids in one surface-exposed protein loop. Our results reveal the biochemical determinants of a sequence-specific TPP1-TERT interaction in human cells, with implications for the mechanisms of TPP1 function in recruiting telomerase subunits to telomeres and in promoting telomere elongation.
Genistein and Vitamin D Synergistically Inhibit Human Prostatic Epithelial Cell Growth

We performed studies to test synergism be- tween the growth inhibitory effects of genistein and vitamin D compounds on prostatic epithelial cells. Isobolographic analysis demonstrated that genistein, in combination with the hormonally active form of cholecalciferol, 1,25-dihy- droxycholecalciferol, synergistically inhibited the growth of primary human prostatic epithelial cells (HPEC) and pros- tate cancer cells. Synergistic growth inhibition of HPEC was also observed between genistein and the low-calcemic vitamin D compound 25-hydroxycholecalciferol. Flow cy- tometry with HPEC indicated that genistein induced arrest in the G2M phase, whereas 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol or 25-hydroxycholecalciferol induced arrest in the G1/0 phase of the cell cycle. Combining genistein with either vitamin D compound resulted in both G2M and G1/0 arrest in HPEC. In contrast, flow cytometry of prostate cancer cells indicated that both genistein and 1,25-dihydroxycholecal- ciferol induced a G1/0 arrest either alone or in combination. These are the first studies that demonstrate synergism between the prostatic cell growth inhibition elicited by genistein and that elicited by vitamin D compounds. J. Nutr. 132: 3191-3194, 2002.
The use of targeted muscle reinnervation for improved myoelectric prosthesis control in a bilateral shoulder disarticulation amputee

A novel method for the control of a myoelectric upper limb prosthesis was achieved in a patient with bilateral amputations at the shoulder disarticulation level. Four independently controlled nerve-muscle units were created by surgically anastomosing residual brachial plexus nerves to dissected and divided aspects of the pectoralis major and minor muscles. The musculocutaneous nerve was anastomosed to the upper pectoralis major; the median nerve was transferred to the middle pectoralis major region; the radial nerve was anastomosed to the lower pectoralis major region; and the ulnar nerve was transferred to the pectoralis minor muscle which was moved out to the lateral chest wall. After five months, three nerve-muscle units were successful (the musculocutaneous, median and radial nerves) in that a contraction could be seen, felt and a surface electromyogram (EMG) could be recorded. Sensory reinnervation also occurred on the chest in an area where the subcutaneous fat was removed. The patient was fitted with a new myoelectric prosthesis using the targeted muscle reinnervation. The patient could simultaneously control two degrees-of-freedom with the experimental prosthesis, the elbow and either the terminal device or wrist. Objective testing showed a doubling of blocks moved with a box and blocks test and a 26% increase in speed with a clothes pin moving test. Subjectively the patient clearly preferred the new prosthesis. He reported that it was easier and faster to use, and felt more natural.
The Role of Gabapentin in the Management of Alcohol Withdrawal and Dependence

Objective: To review the literature evaluating gabapentin for alcohol withdrawal and dependence. Data Sources: A literature search of MEDLINE (1966 to end of March 2015) and PubMed was performed using the terms alcohol, gabapentin, withdrawal, and dependence. Additional references were identified from a review of literature citations. Study Selection and Data Extraction: English-language prospective studies evaluating gabapentin for alcohol withdrawal and dependence were evaluated. Data Synthesis: A total of 10 publications utilizing gabapentin in alcohol withdrawal (n = 5) and alcohol dependence (n = 5) were included in this review. Limited data suggest that gabapentin can provide benefit in managing mild alcohol withdrawal syndrome. There were 5 reported or suspected seizures in the withdrawal studies, suggesting that additional safety data are necessary before gabapentin monotherapy can be routinely considered. Sleep and mood/anxiety-related outcomes were positively influenced by gabapentin, which may ...
Role of Cyclophilin B in Prolactin Signal Transduction and Nuclear Retrotranslocation

The pleiotropic actions of PRL are necessary for mammary growth and differentiation and in vitro lymphoid proliferation. The proximal action of this ligand is mediated by its cell surface receptor via associated networks. PRL action, however, is also associated with the internalization and translocation of this hormone into the nucleus. To delineate the mechanism of this retrotranslocation, a yeast two-hybrid screen was performed and revealed an interaction between PRL and cyclophilin B (CypB). CypB is a peptidyl prolyl isomerase (PPI) found in the endoplasmic reticulum, extracellular space, and nucleus. The interaction between CypB and PRL was subsequently confirmed in vitro and in vivo through the use of recombinant proteins and coimmunoprecipitation studies. The exogenous addition of CypB potentiated the 3H-thymidine incorporation of PRL-dependent cell lines up to 18-fold. CypB by itself was nonmitogenic and did not potentiate the action of GH or other interleukins. CypB did not alter the affinity of t...
Carbon isotopes in aquatic plants, Long Valley Caldera, California as records of past hydrothermal and magmatic activity

Hot and cold springs contribute “dead” (14C free) dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) to the Owens River and Hot Creek. Headwaters aquatic plants have modern 14C, but live plants downstream of the intracaldera springs are depleted in 14C, (as low as 19% modern, with apparent ages up to 13.3 kyrs). In an abandoned meander of the upper Owens River, preserved streambed plants are buried by 600 year old Inyo Craters pumice. Apparent 14C ages of these plants exceed true ages by ∼ 1100 years indicating that they also incorporated dead DIC as they grew. The preserved plants are downstream of Big Springs, whose elevated dead DIC may represent magmatic ‘CO2. The buried plants incorporated ∼10% dead carbon, although modern plants here have ∼50% dead carbon, suggesting that more magmatic CO2 is now entering the upper Owens River than at the time of the Inyo Craters eruptions 600 years ago.
The behaviour of indigenous and non‐indigenous farmers: A case study

This paper contrasts the economic performance of a group of immigrant Chinese paddy farmers in West Malaysia with their native Malay counterparts. The situation involves their differing response to the introduction of doublecropping. Productivity measures, production function estimates, and field observations indicate significant differences in performance. The reasons for these differences are attributed to the characteristics of immigrant groups, differences in perception of the innovations, and historical factors.
Diagnosis of malignant catarrhal fever by PCR using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues.

A previously described polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay (amplification of a 238-bp frag- ment of ovine herpesvirus 2 (OHV-2) genomic DNA) for diagnosis of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) was adapted for use on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. Variables affecting its use were examined. Archived tissues from cattle, white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and bison (Bison bison) diagnosed with MCF by clinical signs or histologic lesions were obtained from 2 veterinary diagnostic labo- ratories. Tissues from healthy animals and from animals diagnosed with other common bovine viral diseases were examined as controls. A total of 86 blocks from 37 suspect MCF cases were examined. Forty-one blocks from healthy animals and animals with unrelated viral diseases were examined as controls. The assay was specific for sheep-associated MCF and did not yield false-positive signals from healthy animals or from cases of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, bovine virus diarrhea, mucosal disease, or parainfluenza-3 virus infection. A wide variety of tissues were suitable substrates, including spleen, lymph node, intestine, brain, lung, and kidney. Extracted DNA provided a more suitable target than did unextracted tissue lysate. The highest levels of viral DNA were present in lymphoid organs and intestine, but the data indicate that in acute clinical cases, most organs contain sufficient viral DNA to serve as a suitable diagnostic specimen. Fixation of 0.5-cm 3 blocks of tissue in 10% neutral buffered formalin was deleterious to the target DNA, and PCR signals progressively diminished after fixation for .45 days. Detection of genomic DNA of OHV-2 by PCR was successful for archived tissues that were 15 years old. Sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) can pose a formidable diagnostic challenge to clini- cians and pathologists alike, in that its protean presen- tation can make it difficult to differentiate it from sev- eral other common viral diseases. The classical signs, most prominently corneal edema, fever, and general- ized lymphadenopathy, are not always evident, partic- ularly in acute cases in highly susceptible species such as deer, 21 moose, and bison (unpublished data). If pre- sent, the predominant microscopic lesions of MCF (lymphoproliferation, mucosal inflammation, and vas- culitis) are highly suggestive. However, they may be either absent or so mild that the diagnostician has dif- ficulty in differentiating them from similar lesions that can accompany bovine virus diarrhea (BVD)/mucosal disease, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), and epizootic hemorrhagic disease. 5 In situ immunohisto- chemistry or immunofluorescence is of little diagnostic value because, in spite of many attempts, no successful demonstration of viral antigen in tissues has been re- ported. In addition, until very recently, the few labo- ratory tests available for MCF serologic diagnosis
Improving input/output performance in 2D and 3D angle-domain common-image gathers from reverse time migration

ABSTRACTWe have developed a new method of extracting angle-domain common-image gathers (ADCIGs) from prestack reverse time migration (RTM) that has minimal intermediate storage requirements. To include multipathing, we applied an imaging condition for prestack RTM that uses multiple excitation image times. Instead of saving the full-source snapshots at all time steps, we picked and saved only a few of the highest amplitude arrivals, and their corresponding excitation times, of the source wavefield at each grid point, and we crosscorrelated with the receiver wavefield. When extracting the ADCIGs from RTM, we calculated the source propagation direction from the gradient of the excitation times. The result was that the source time snapshots do not have to be saved or reconstructed during RTM or while extracting ADCIGs. We calculated the receiver propagation direction from Poynting vectors during the receiver extrapolation at each time step and the reflector normal direction by the phase-gradient method. With...