cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Retroperitoneoscopic renal biopsy in extremely obese patients

Abstract Objectives Retroperitoneoscopic renal biopsy can be technically challenging in extremely obese patients because of loss of surgical landmarks and difficulty in identifying the kidney within retroperitoneal adipose tissue. We present our experience with retroperitoneoscopic renal biopsy in extremely obese patients and describe our surgical technique. Methods We performed retroperitoneoscopic renal biopsies on 8 extremely obese patients (body mass index greater than 40). Mean patient weight was 144.3 kg. Three patients presented with acute renal failure and 5 presented with nephrotic range proteinuria. Retroperitoneoscopic renal biopsy was indicated based on extreme obesity alone in 3 patients, 2 patients had failed previous attempts at percutaneous biopsy, 1 patient had a solitary kidney, 1 patient required chronic anticoagulation, and 1 patient was a Jehovah's Witness. Intraoperative ultrasonography and an anatomic approach facilitated the dissection and identification of the kidney. Results All eight retroperitoneoscopic renal biopsies were completed successfully without complication and all patients were discharged within 24 hours of the procedure. Sufficient tissue for pathologic diagnosis was obtained in all cases. Mean operating room time was 153 minutes and mean estimated blood loss was 71 mL. The patients returned to normal activity at a mean of 1.8 weeks. Conclusions With the use of intraoperative ultrasonography and a systematic, anatomic approach, retro-peritoneoscopic renal biopsy can be successfully completed in extremely obese patients. This procedure can be reliably performed on an outpatient basis with minimal morbidity and should be considered a viable alternative to open renal biopsy.
Conflict graphs in solving integer programming problems

Abstract We report on the use of conflict graphs in solving integer programs. A conflict graph represents logical relations between binary variables. We develop algorithms and data structures that allow the effective and efficient construction, management, and use of dynamically changing conflict graphs. Our computational experiments show that the techniques presented work very well.
Ephedrine-Activated Physiological Sexual Arousal in Women

Background The present investigation was designed to provide the first empirical examination of the effects of ephedrine sulfate, an α- and β-adrenergic agonist, on subjective and physiological sexual arousal in women. The purpose was to help elucidate the effects of increased peripheral adrenergic activity on sexual response in women. Methods Twenty sexually functional women participated in 2 experimental conditions in which subjective (self-report) and physiological (vaginal photoplethysmography) sexual responses to erotic stimuli were measured following administration of either ephedrine sulfate (50 mg) or placebo in a randomized, double-blind, cross-over protocol. Results Ephedrine significantly ( P P >.10) effect on subjective ratings of sexual arousal. Conclusions Ephedrine can significantly facilitate the initial stages of physiological sexual arousal in women. These findings have implications for deriving new pharmacological approaches to the management of sexual dysfunction in women.
Invariance in Measurement and Prediction Revisited

Borsboom (Psychometrika, 71:425–440, 2006) noted that recent work on measurement invariance (MI) and predictive invariance (PI) has had little impact on the practice of measurement in psychology. To understand this contention, the definitions of MI and PI are reviewed, followed by results on the consistency between the two forms of invariance in the general case. The special parametric cases of factor analysis (strict factorial invariance) and linear regression analyses (strong regression invariance) are then described, along with findings on the inconsistency between the two forms of invariance in this context. Two numerical examples of inconsistency are reviewed in detail. The impact of violations of MI on accuracy of selection is illustrated. Finally, reasons for the slow dissemination of work on invariance are discussed, and the prospects for altering this situation are weighed.
Use of Fetal Cortical Grafts in Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury in Neonatal Rats

Abstract In view of numerous studies demonstrating that intracerebral implants of fetal neural tissue can promote functional recovery and structural repair in the damaged brain, the present study examined the potential use of neocortical transplantation in newborn rats that sustained hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. Ischemic insult was induced in Long-Evans, black-hooded 1-week-old rats by unilateral common carotid artery occlusion followed by 2.5 h of hypoxia in 8% O 2 . One week later, animals received neocortical block transplants. At 2–6 weeks posttransplantation, animals were sacrificed and their brains examined histologically. Transplants survived in over 80% of the animals and the presence of acetylcholinesterase-positive fibers crossing the host-transplant interface provided evidence of transplant integration with the host brain. However, morphometric measurements revealed that the transplants were unable to reduce the hypoxia-ischemia-induced degeneration in the host hippocampus, caudate-putamen, or thalamus. Nonetheless the demonstrated survival of grafts in the neonatal hypoxia-ischemia model suggests a potential therapeutic effect.
Family labour supply and labour market segmentation

This paper examines the differences in individuals’ labour supply decisions in different segments of the labour market. It tests one of the main hypotheses of the dual labour market theory that the labour market can be divided into at least two segments, and also whether the family labour supply decisions of individuals differ in the two segments. The possibility of individuals’ wage rates depending on the number of hours worked is recognized and a model is developed in which both the wage rates and hours of work of individuals are jointly determined, with the personal income tax system as an intervening variable since hours of labour supply depend on the post tax wage rate whereas if the marginal product of labour is a positive function of hours worked, this affects the pre-tax wage rates. Other alternative wage functions are specified and a simultaneous equations labour supply model using Three Stage Least Squares (3SLS) procedure is estimated. The results indicate that there was sample selectivity bias...
COMMENT ON :EFFECT SIZE ESTIMATION FOR ONE-SAMPLE MULTIPLE-CHOICE-TYPE DATA : DESIGN, ANALYSIS, AND META-ANALYSIS BY ROSENTHAL AND RUBIN (1989)

Rosenthal and Rubin proposed a measure of effect size for multiple-choice data that adjusts for differences in percentage correct due to different numbers of response alternatives. The adjustement is based on a logit model. Under an alternative simple guessing model, the appropriate adjustment can differ considerably, and the 2 models lead to radically different prescriptions for study design. Adoption of a routine method of adjustment without regard to characteristics of the questions and respondents may result in misleading interpretations
Celestial mechanics since Newton

Abstract With Newton's law of gravitation and laws of motion the science of celestial mechanics obtained its beginning and its fundamental principles and rules. The challenges were presented by Poincare 200 years later with the principle of non-integrability of the gravitational problem of three or more bodies. Most of the advances in our field belong to one of the following categories: 1. (1)|formulation of problems and solution techniques; 2. (2)|direct and inverse approaches; 3. (3)|stability. The analytical approaches, also known as general perturbation methods appear already in the Principia, often hidden behind geometrical presentations. Hamiltonian dynamics, transformations, topological techniques, bifurcation and mapping are today parts of analytical celestial mechanics. The significant advances in numerical techniques reached the level of brain-computer interfaces, algebraic manipulations and the demonstration of chaotic behaviour of dynamical systems. Newton was concerned with describing the field of gravitation and then establishing orbits in this field. Following him, the problems of inverse dynamics became considerably more refined when higher order gravitational coefficients were being established by satellite orbit observations. The direct problems are today culminating in meaningful orbit predictions of the outer solar system for 10 8 years. With increased observational accuracy, the formulation of the models used has changed considerably and cosmology, stellar dynamics, and dissipative systems became subjects of celestial mechanics. Successful predictions of the qualitative and quantitative behaviour of dynamical systems involved in celestial mechanics depend significantly on the stability characteristics of the problems studied. Recognition of the uncertainties and limited validity of our predictions is probably one of the greatest advances in today's celestial mechanics. This paper is concluded with a short historical review of our giants and of their contributions to pre- and post-Newtonian celestial mechanics.
Crossing Lattices, Vortex Chains, and Angular Dependence of Melting Line in Layered Superconductors

We investigate vortex structure in very anisotropic layered superconductors at fields tilted with respect to the $c$ axis. We show that even a small in-plane field does not tilt the vortex lattice but, instead, penetrates inside the superconductor in the form of Josephson vortices (JVs). At high $c$-axis magnetic field the phase field of the JV is built up from the phase perturbations created by displacements of pancake vortices. The crossing-lattices ground state leads to linear dependence of the c-axis melting field on the in-plane field, in agreement with recent experimental observations. At small fields stacks of JVs accumulate additional pancake stacks creating vortex rows with enhanced density. This mechanism explains the mixed chains-lattice state observed by decorations.
Electron microscope autoradiographic investigation of33P in the intestinal epithelium of rachitic, normal and vitamin-D-treated rats

Electron microscopic autoradiography was utilized to determine the distribution of phosphorus within the absorptive cells of the duodenum and to determine any difference that might exist between the rachitic, normal and vitamin-D-treated rachitic rat. No great difference was noted in phosphate distribution among the various nutrition groups, but the rachitic animal was able to absorb phosphorus and all groups demonstrated a distribution different from that of calcium. Label was seen over the microvilli, terminal web, mitochondria, nucleus, dense and light core vesicles, as well as smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum.
Horizontal cell axon terminals in growing goldfish.

Abstract In the retina of teleost fish, cone horizontal cell axons penetrate the inner nuclear layer, where they enlarge into fusiform terminal swellings. The present study shows that horizontal cell axon terminals enlarge disproportionately during postembryonic growth of the retina in juvenile and adult goldfish: the relative volume of axon terminals increases almost 20-fold, while the volume of the entire retina increases only about fourfold during a 2–3-yr period. The enlarging axon terminals fill in the gaps created as the numerical density of nuclei in the inner nuclear layer falls. Horizontal cell axon terminals are thought to participate in cone-dominated visual pathways, although their precise role is unclear. The results of this study suggest that a comparison of horizontal cell function in small and large fish might help to resolve this issue.
Maynard Weston Dow (1929–2011) and “Geographers on Film”

M.W. (“Wes”) Dow was raised in Brunswick, Maine, on the margin of the Bowdoin College campus. School was followed by attendance at the U.S. Naval Academy, from which graduation came in 1952. In 194...
Caffeine Increases Cerebral Cortical Activity in Preterm Infants

Caffeine improves the rate of survival without neurodevelopmental disability in preterm infants. The mechanisms underlying neuroprotection are incompletely understood. In 51 preterm infants studied by amplitude-integrated electroencephalography from 2 hours before to 2 hours after intravenous caffeine administration, we found that caffeine increases amplitudes and periods of continuity.
Late Cenozoic volcanic rocks of the southern Sierra Nevada, California: I. Geology and petrology: Summary

Small isolated late Cenozoic basaltic lava flows, dikes, and plugs are widely distributed on the west slope of the Sierra Nevada (Figs. 1 and 2). More voluminous basalt, commonly associated with rhyolite, is present along the east escarpment of the Sierra Nevada and farther east within the Basin and Range Province. All of these basaltic rocks are alkalic in composition. The most alkalic volcanic rocks, which predominate west of the Sierra Nevada crest, are highly potassic and include leucite-bearing varieties. The recent discovery of leucite-bearing rocks at nine new localities demonstrates that this region, principally the west slope of the Sierra Nevada, is an important province of mafic, potassic-alkalic magmatism. The presence of potassium-rich volcanic rocks in the Sierra Nevada was documented by Nockolds and Allen (1954). Hamilton and Neuerburg (1956) described potassic lavas in the Huntington Lake area and attributed their origin to assimilation of the granitic rocks. Moore (1962) demonstrated that this potassic suite is restricted to a region of low Bouguer gravity and thick crust. Nash and Nelson (1964) and Tidy (1970) described leucite-bearing rocks from Deep Spring Valley, and Peck (1976) reported similar rocks in the San Joaquin River drainage of the western Sierra Nevada. Van Kooten and Peck (1977) and Van Kooten (1980) suggested that the potassic lavas could have been produced by deep-seated incongruent melting of a phlogopite-bearing ultramafic source. Moore (1978) mapped small occurrences of leucite phonolite in the Marion Peak quadrangle, and Moore and Dodge (1977) described potassic lavas in the Kings River drainage of the western Sierra Nevada and compared them to other occurrences within the Sierra Nevada. In this study, we describe the geographic distribution and composition of volcanic rocks of the southern Sierra Nevada and the extreme western Basin and Range Province and explore the origin of the highly potassic basalt. We also examine the petrology and distribution of rock types and, in a companion paper (Dodge and Moore, in prep.), we consider the variations in their major and minor chemical constituents.
Epitaxy of barium titanate thin films grown on MgO by pulsed-laser ablation

Thin films of barium titanate (BaTiO3) have been deposited by pulsed-laser ablation onto (001)-oriented MgO substrates. The films were epitactic with the c-axis perpendicular to the film-substrate interface, as evidenced by both transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and ion-channeling techniques. The elastic resonance of 3.045 MeV α-particles, generating the 16O(α, α)16O reaction was used to determine the oxygen stoichiometry of the film and the minimum yield based on the oxygen peaks, thereby enabling conclusions to be drawn about the crystalline perfection of the oxygen sublattice.
The hidden reason for patients' nonadherence to low sodium diet recommendations

Background: Nonadherence to the low sodium dietary restriction is a major reason for unnecessary hospitalizations and mortality in patients with heart failure (HF). Despite this fact, little is known about reasons for nonadherence. The purpose of this study was to describe the reasons for nonadherence to low sodium diet recommendations. Method: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using a convenience sample of 21 patients with chronic HF who were recruited from a HF clinic at an academic medical center. One-on-one interviews were conducted, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using constant comparative analysis to identify themes. Results: All patients reported eating foods that were inconsistent with a low sodium diet. Three primary themes describing reasons for nonadherence to the prescribed low sodium diet were evident in the data: 1) lack of knowledge; 2) interference with socialization; and 3) lack of food selections. Regarding lack of knowledge, participants expressed an unmet need for detailed dietary information and written instructions. They did not understand how to select or prepare low sodium foods or the rationale for this dietary restriction. Patients failed to anticipate that the low sodium diet was a life-long endeavor. Diet confusion was noted in those with multiple dietary restrictions. Surprisingly, patients consumed high sodium foods even though they linked these foods to symptoms such as “smothering” and “swelling up.” However, no one expressed concern that these foods were causing an exacerbation of HF. Regarding the theme of interference with socialization, nearly all participants discussed the difficulties of choosing low sodium meals when eating out. Major obstacles to adherence arose when others in the household did not follow the same low sodium diet. Regarding the theme of lack of food selections, common barriers to adherence included limited low sodium food choices and lack of palatability. Additional dietary restrictions related to other comorbidities confounded the problem of limited food choices. Conclusion: This is one of the first qualitative studies that directly explored reasons persons with HF find it difficult to adhere to a low sodium diet. A major impediment to eating a low sodium diet emerged under the theme of lack of knowledge that revealed the real or “hidden” reason patients are nonadherent: patients do not understand the link between increased dietary sodium and an increase in fluid volume that overwhelms an already failing heart. Targeting this area along with the others identified in this study may improve adherence.
Carbon and nitrogen transfer in Fe-9 Cr-Mo ferritic steels exposed to a sodium environment☆

Kinetics of carburization/decarburization of five commercial and two high-purity Fe-9 Cr-1 to 2.5 Mo feiritic steels have been studied in a sodium environment at temperatures between 773 and 973 K. Carbon concentration-distance profiles were obtained as a function of sodium-exposure time, temperature, and carbon in sodium and the carburization/ decarburization rate constants were evaluated. The results show that the Fe-9 Cr-Mo steels are more resistant to carbon transfer than the low-alloy Fe-214 Cr-1 Mo steel. The conditions of temperature and carbon concentration in sodium for carburization or decarburization of Fe—9 Cr—Mo steels are quite similar to those for stainless steels. However, the extent of carbon transfer in Fe-9 Cr—Mo steels is lower than that of the stainless steels. The composition and carbide structure of the steel had a significant effect on the carburization/decarburization behavior. Fe-9 Cr-Mo steels that decarburize to very low carbon concentrations either contain M2X phase or have M6C as the only stable carbide.
Expert system for fusing weather and doctrinal information used in the intelligence preparation of the battlefield

We present current work on the Weather and Doctrinal Information Fusion (WADIF) system for Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB). The task of the WADIF system is to determine the performance of an Army operational asset, such as a tank, taking into account current and projected terrain and weather conditions. This is a task that is currently performed manually, requiring significant personal resources. The WADIF system automates much of the process, enabling the user to analyze the area of interest in greater detail. By giving the user this ability, the WADIF system will significantly improve the quality of the decisions made. We present a discussion of the task environment and the architecture of the WADIF system in detail, and conclude by discussing future directions.
Field Experience with the Direct Buried Residential Transformer

Having made the assumption that a direct buried residential transformer was an economic necessity in unit residential installations, the next step was to determine its physical and electrical practicality. To accomplish this, it was necessary to gather engineering data. For this purpose a test installation equipped with cathodic protection and temperature test points was proposed. Installation procedures were developed to handle the field problems associated with direct burial. Methods of marking the field location were studied and the costs of converting a subsurface transformer to a direct buried unit were reviewed. Upon receiving favorable engineering data and confirmation of the anticipated economics, the direct burial concept was recognized as an acceptable approach. Now after three years of installation experience and the emergence of a direct buried transformer, methods have evolved into standards. Present installed units continue to be observed and evaluated with added interest in increased loading and multiple secondary services.
Antidepressant-like effect of LY228729 as measured in the rodent forced swim paradigm.

Abstract The novel 5-HT 1A receptor agonist, LY228729, was tested to see if it would produce antidepressant-like behavioral effects in the rodent forced swim model. The tricyclic antidepressant, imipramine, as well as the 5-HT 1A receptor agonists, 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino) tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) and gepirone, produced dose-related decreases in immobility in the forced swim test following subchronic treatment in rats. LY228729, when given over a three injection course, as with the other compounds, significantly reduced immobility at doses of 1 and 3 mg/kg. Subsequent analysis of locomotor activity revealed no increases in behavior, so that general changes in activity could not account for the reduction in immobility time in the forced swim. These results suggest that LY228729 may have clinical antidepressant efficacy.
Evaluation: Methods and strategy for evaluation-Massachusetts†

Various challenges exist when evaluating statewide, community-based public health initiatives and these need to be addressed by tobacco control programs. There are factors inherent in public health initiatives that can make it difficult to assess causality and effectiveness. These include initial design elements, funding mandates, duration of program and resources allocated for evaluation. In addition, outside efforts to undermine the initiative also must be taken into consideration, when evaluating effectiveness. This article focuses on these and other challenges encountered by the Massachusetts Tobacco Control Program and presents information on the state specific tobacco surveys conducted for the Program.
Static, multimodal, multiplex spectrometer design for weak, incoherent sources

We present a flexible design for a static, multimodal, multiplex spectrometer which is optimized for the weak incoherent sources that are common in biomedical applications. Simultaneous high throughput and resolution are achieved in a single-shot measurement via 2-D aperture encoding. The resulting computational problem is well-conditioned and easily invertible.
Histones bind more tightly to bromodeoxyuridine-substituted DNA than to normal DNA

Using a membrane filter assay, we have obtained results from both kinetic and competition experiments indicating that histones bind more strongly to bromodeoxyuridine-substituted DNA than to normal DNA. At 37 degrees C in our standard buffer of 0.2 M ionic strength, the rate of dissociation of histones H1, H2, and h4 from BrdU-substituted DNA is respectively 7, 4, and 2 times slower than it is from normal DNA. Competition experiments show an even greater difference between BrdU-substituted and normal DNA with respect to histone binding. The tighter binding of histones to BrdU-substituted DNA is of interest because of the known effects of BrdU on eukaryotic chromosome condensation and staining, virus induction, and the inhibition of differentiation.
Methamphetamine toxicity and its implications during HIV-1 infection.

Over the past two decades methamphetamine (MA) abuse has seen a dramatic increase. The abuse of MA is particularly high in groups that are at higher risk for HIV-1 infection, especially men who have sex with men (MSM). This review is focused on MA toxicity in the CNS as well as in the periphery. In the CNS, MA toxicity is comprised of numerous effects, including, but not limited to, oxidative stress produced by dysregulation of the dopaminergic system, hyperthermia, apoptosis, and neuroinflammation. Multiple lines of evidence demonstrate that these effects exacerbate the neurodegenerative damage caused by CNS infection of HIV perhaps because both MA and HIV target the frontostriatal regions of the brain. MA has also been demonstrated to increase viral load in the CNS of SIV-infected macaques. Using transgenic animal models, as well as cultured cells, the HIV proteins Tat and gp120 have been demonstrated to have neurotoxic properties that are aggravated by MA. In addition, MA has been shown to exhibit detrimental effects on the blood–brain barrier (BBB) that have the potential to increase the probability of CNS infection by HIV. Although the effects of MA in the periphery have not been as extensively studied as have the effects on the CNS, recent reports demonstrate the potential effects of MA on HIV infection in the periphery including increased expression of HIV co-receptors and increased expression of inflammatory cytokines.
The rise and fall of infant habituation

In order to test for possible artifacts in group habituation data, two computer simulation models were constructed. One assumed habituation was an all-or-none-process; the other assumed it was an exponentially decreasing process. These models were compared to actual data from 250 infants ranging from 14 to 30 weeks of age who had been habituated to a color photograph of a face. Both models produced good qualitative fits with the data. However, traditional methods of assessing habituation (i.e., forward, backward or Vincentized curves) did not differentiate between the models. Several artifacts in these curves obscured any differences. In particular, the peak just prior to criterion and the drop found in backward curves was shown to be totally artifactual. The conclusion was that one should be cautious about inferring specific encoding processes in infants from group habituation curves.
Dynamics of Protein Damage in Yeast Frataxin Mutant Exposed to Oxidative Stress

Abstract Oxidative stress and protein carbonylation is implicated in aging and various diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, and cancer. Therefore, the accurate identification and quantification of protein carbonylation may lead to the discovery of new biomarkers. We have developed a new method that combines avidin affinity selection of carbonylated proteins with iTRAQ labeling and LC fractionation of intact proteins. This simple LC-based workflow is an effective technique to reduce sample complexity, minimize technical variation, and enable simultaneous quantification of four samples. This method was used to determine protein oxidation in an iron accumulating mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae exposed to oxidative stress. Overall, 31 proteins were identified with 99% peptide confidence, and of those, 27 proteins were quantified. Most of the identified proteins were associated with energy metabolism (32.3%), and cellular defense, transport, and folding (38.7%), suggesting a drop in energ...
Plantar tissue stiffness in patients with diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy.

Abstract Klaesner JW, Hastings MK, Zou D, Lewis C, Mueller MJ. Plantar tissue stiffness in patients with diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2002;83:1796-801. Objective: To determine if a difference exists in the plantar soft tissue of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and peripheral neuropathy (PN) compared with age-matched controls. Design: Case-control study with a parallel 3-element 1-dimensional viscoelastic model developed to characterize indentation data. Setting: Data collection performed in an academic physical therapy laboratory. Participants: Forty subjects were recruited into 2 groups (20 subjects with DM, PN, and history of plantar ulcers; 20 control subjects), matched for age (DM: 55.22±9.39y; control: 55.91±10.97y), gender (DM: 14 men, 6 women; control: 14 men, 6 women), and body mass index (DM: 32.96±8.39kg/m 2 ; control: 32.58±7.69kg/m 2 ). Interventions: The plantar soft tissue stiffness was measured over the first, third, and fifth metatarsals, and heel of each subject using an indentor system that accurately measures force/displacement (F/D) data. A parallel 3-element viscoelastic mechanical model was then used to transform the F/D data into values that were used to make stiffness assessments. Main Outcome Measures: The element coefficients of our model indicated the stiffness of the plantar tissue. Results: The plantar tissue of the subjects with DM over the metatarsal heads was stiffer than the control population as indicated by one of the spring constants in the parallel 3-element model (first: 1.13±0.55N/mm vs .72±.32N/mm; third: .96±.32 N/mm vs .79±.17N/mm; fifth: .90±.31N/mm vs .69±.28N/mm; P Conclusions: The plantar tissue of subjects with DM, PN, and a history of ulcers was stiffer than control subjects. However, additional research is needed to determine the relationship among increased soft tissue stiffness, plantar pressures, and skin breakdown. © 2002 by the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Therapeutic videotaped playback: A critical review

Abstract Research published in the last decade on therapeutic videotape recorded playback applications is reviewed. The use of playback in marital and family therapy, treatment of alcoholics, therapy with inpatients, improving social competencies and other miscellaneous settings are independently examined and evaluated. Important methodological issues in videotaped playback research in general and critical dimensions of playback applications are discussed. The present status of videotaped playback usage in therapy is outlined. Drawing heavily from social psychological literature, theoretical explanations emphasizing the motivational or informational (or both) properties of videotaped playback are reviewed. It is concluded that unspecified videotaped playback produces no independent effects, and that further specification of such parameters as content and context of playback are necessary for positive therapy outcome. A social learning view of videotaped playback is advanced.
Airborne laser advanced concepts testbed

The Airborne Laser Advanced Concepts Testbed (ABL ACT) is a low power beam control test facility located at the northern end of White Sands Missile Range atop North Oscura Peak. The purpose of ABL ACT is to explore concepts for laser propagation under high scintillation conditions. This paper gives an updated overview ofthe facility, reviews data collected to date, and details future plans
Factors influencing the choice of social security early retirement benefits

The present research focuses directly on the choice of early retirement Social Security benefits in 1973 for men who responded to the National Retirement History Survey. This focus is more appropriate than examining early retirement more generally when the issue is solvency of the Social Security system and appropriate changes in benefits and eligibility. While this study confirms the important role of private pensions, it tests an important concept of availability of suitable work. This factor, which proved to be a significant predictor of early beneficiary status for both blacks and whites, is critical to assumptions concerning the effect of possible changes in the age of eligibility for Social Security Early Retirement benefits. The data are also used to estimate a dramatic increase in poverty among early benficiaries and their families if these benefits were removed from their current income.
Materials applications of photoelectron emission microscopy

Photoelectron emission microscopy (PEEM) is a versatile technique that can image a variety of materials including metals, semiconductors and even insulators. Under favorable conditions the most advanced aberration corrected instruments have a spatial resolution approaching 2 nm. Although PEEM cannot compete with transmission or scanning electron microscopies for ultimate resolution, the technique is much gentler and has the unique advantage of imaging structure as well as electronic and magnetic states on the nanoscale. Since the image contrast is derived from spatial variations in electron photoemission intensity, PEEM is ideal for interrogating both static and dynamic electronic properties of complex nanostructured materials. Here, we review the key principles and contrast mechanisms of PEEM and briefly summarize materials applications of PEEM.
Origins and Recombination of the Bacterial-Sized Multichromosomal Mitochondrial Genome of Cucumber

Members of the flowering plant family Cucurbitaceae harbor the largest known mitochondrial genomes. Here, we report the 1685-kb mitochondrial genome of cucumber (Cucumis sativus). We help solve a 30-year mystery about the origins of its large size by showing that it mainly reflects the proliferation of dispersed repeats, expansions of existing introns, and the acquisition of sequences from diverse sources, including the cucumber nuclear and chloroplast genomes, viruses, and bacteria. The cucumber genome has a novel structure for plant mitochondria, mapping as three entirely or largely autonomous circular chromosomes (lengths 1556, 84, and 45 kb) that vary in relative abundance over a twofold range. These properties suggest that the three chromosomes replicate independently of one another. The two smaller chromosomes are devoid of known functional genes but nonetheless contain diagnostic mitochondrial features. Paired-end sequencing conflicts reveal differences in recombination dynamics among chromosomes, for which an explanatory model is developed, as well as a large pool of low-frequency genome conformations, many of which may result from asymmetric recombination across intermediate-sized and sometimes highly divergent repeats. These findings highlight the promise of genome sequencing for elucidating the recombinational dynamics of plant mitochondrial genomes.
Nanoenhanced Materials for Reclamation of Mine Lands and Other Degraded Soils: A Review

Successful mine soil reclamation facilitates ecosystem recovery, minimizes adverse environmental impacts, creates additional lands for agricultural or forestry uses, and enhances the carbon (C) sequestration. Nanoparticles with extremely high reactivity and deliverability can be applied as amendments to improve soil quality, mitigate soil contaminations, ensure safe land–application of the conventional amendment materials (e.g., manures and biosolids), and enhance soil erosion control. However, there is no report on using nanoenhanced materials for mine soil reclamation. Through reviewing the up-to-date research results on using environment-friendly nanoparticles for agricultural soil quality improvement and for contaminated soil remediation, this paper synthesizes that these nanomaterials with high potentials for mine soil reclamation include zeolites, zero-valent iron nanoparticles, iron oxide nanoparticles, phosphate-based nanoparticles, iron sulfide nanoparticles and C nanotubes. Transport of these particles in the environment and their possible ecotoxicological effects are also discussed. Additionally, this article proposes a practical and economical approach to applying nanotechnology for mine soil reclamation: adding small amounts of nanoparticles to the conventional soil amendment materials and then applying the mixtures for soil quality improvements. Hence the cost of using nanoparticles is reduced and the benefits of both nanoparticles and the conventional amendment materials are harnessed.
Intracoronary Radiation Before Stent Implantation Inhibits Neointima Formation in Stented Porcine Coronary Arteries

Background Stent implantation has been shown to reduce restenosis by establishing a larger lumen but not by reducing neointima formation. We have previously shown that ionizing radiation reduced neointima formation after balloon injury in a swine model of restenosis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether endovascular irradiation of the coronary artery before stent implantation would affect neointima formation. Methods and Results Nine normolipemic pigs underwent coronary angiography, and segments of the left anterior descending and left circumflex arteries were chosen as targets for stenting. A high-activity 192Ir source was used to deliver 14 Gy by random assignment to one of the vessels. After this, 3.5-mm tantalum stents were implanted in both arteries. Three additional pigs were treated with a 90Sr/Y source (a pure β-emitter) delivering 14 Gy to five segments of coronary vessels that were stented immediately after irradiation. Stent-to-artery ratio was similar in the radiated and the control arteries. Animals received aspirin 325 mg daily and were killed at 28 days. The intimal area was significantly reduced in the irradiated stented arteries compared with control arteries treated with stent only (1.98 mm2 with 192Ir and 2.53 mm2 with 90Sr/Y versus 3.82 mm2 in the control stented arteries, P <.005). Conclusions Endovascular radiation before coronary stenting reduces neointima formation and may further reduce the restenosis rate after stent implantation.
Activation of the NF-κB Pathway by the STAT3 Inhibitor JSI-124 in Human Glioblastoma Cells

Glioblastoma tumors are characterized by their invasiveness and resistance to therapies. The transcription factor STAT3 was recently identified as a master transcriptional regulator in the mesenchymal subtype of GBM, which has generated an increased interest in targeting STAT3. We have evaluated more closely the mechanism of action of one particular STAT3 inhibitor, JSI-124 (cucurbitacin I). In this study, we confirmed that JSI-124 inhibits both constitutive and stimulus-induced JAK2 and STAT3 phosphorylation, and decreases cell proliferation while inducing apoptosis in cultured GBM cells. However, we discovered that prior to the inhibition of STAT3, JSI-124 activates the NF-κB pathway, via NF-κB p65 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation. In addition, JSI-124 treatment induces the expression of IL-6, IL-8 and SOCS3 mRNA, which leads to a corresponding increase in IL-6, IL-8 and SOCS3 protein expression. Moreover, the NF-κB driven SOCS3 expression acts as a negative regulator of STAT3, abrogating any subsequent STAT3 activation and provides a mechanism of STAT3 inhibition following JSI-124 treatment. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis confirms that NF-κB p65 in addition to other activating co-factors are found at the promoters of IL-6, IL-8 and SOCS3, following JSI-124 treatment. Using pharmacological inhibition of NF-κB and inducible knockdown of NF-κB p65, we found that JSI-124-induced expression of IL-6, IL-8 and SOCS3 was significantly inhibited, demonstrating an NF-κB dependent mechanism. Our data indicate that although JSI-124 may demonstrate potential anti-tumor effects through inhibition of STAT3, other off-target pro-inflammatory pathways are activated, emphasizing that more careful and thorough pre-clinical investigations must be implemented to prevent potential harmful effects.
The Formation of Contact and Very Close Binaries

We explore the possibility that all close binaries, i.e. those with periods {approx}< 3 d, including contact (W UMa) binaries, are produced from initially wider binaries (periods of say 10's of days) by the action of a triple companion through the medium of Kozai Cycles with Tidal Friction (KCTF).
Promoting Literacy Development for Beginning English Learners.

Studies show that teachers struggle with meeting the needs of immigrant students, especially recent arrivals (Szente, Hoot, & Taylor, 2006; Tadesse, Hoot, & Watson-Thompson, 2009). To some extent, this is due to the instructional method and unfamiliar curriculum to the students. This column presents elements of one teacher's literacy instruction with a newly arrived English Learner (EL) as he developed his language and literacy skills. The teacher supported the student by previewing the text, discussing key vocabulary words, writing short sentences that connect personal information with that of the character in the text, creating bilingual dictionaries for learning words, simple expressions, and English grammatical structures, linking personal classroom experiences with events/actions in the text, using the native language to make concepts and Ideas comprehensible, participating in guided reading instruction, engaging in story retelling, and writing a summary of the text.
Female parthenogenetic apomixis and androsporogenesis in Douglas-fir embryonal initials in an artificial sporangium

Control of female parthenogenetic apomixis and androsporogenesis of Douglas-fir embryonal initials was studied using an experimental culture system in which changes in growth condition can mediate changes in cell identity and outcomes. This culture system constitutes an artificial sporangium in which myriad culture conditions can be simulated and should be applicable for research on a variety of gymnosperms. In this study, embryonal initials from developing seeds from two Douglas-fir trees were rescued and became reprogrammed for female parthenogenetic apomixis (fPA) and parthenogenetic androsporogenesis (mPA). Female PA was initiated by endomitosis forming a binucleate cell with a diploid egg-equivalent and an apoptotic ventral canal nucleus in an archegonial tube. Egg-equivalent nuclei formed cells (parthenotes) that were discharged into an aqueous culture medium. Parthenotes developed axial tiers atypical of early embryogenesis in seeds. Earlier in the year, androsporangial tubes were parthenogenetically differentiated and released monads, dyads, triads, and tetrads into the culture medium. Spores showed chromosomal aberrations. PA demonstrated a temporal separation in gender expression (dichogamy). Embryonal initials brought forward and by-passed the long juvenile phases normally needed for cells to develop into trees and express reproductive maturity. Expressions of fPA and mPA indicated that the specialized culture flasks served as an artificial sporangium (AS). Awareness is raised for the value of an AS for research in gymnosperm life cycles and as a teaching and research laboratory.
FDA drug approval summaries: oxaliplatin.

The purpose of this report is to summarize information on oxaliplatin, a drug recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Information provided includes regulatory history, study design, efficacy and safety results, and pertinent literature references. A single, multicenter, randomized trial, enrolling 463 patients with metastatic colorectal carcinoma whose disease had recurred or progressed during or within 6 months of completion of therapy with the combination of bolus 5-fluorouracil (FU)/leucovorin (LV) and irinotecan, was submitted. Study arms included infusional 5-FU/LV alone (arm A), oxaliplatin alone (arm B), and the combination of oxaliplatin and infusional 5-FU/LV(arm C). Oxaliplatin, at a dose of 85 mg/m2, was administered to patients in arms B and C intravenously over 2 hours in 250-500 ml of dextrose 5% in water (D5W) on day 1 only. A 200-mg/m2 dose of LV was administered simultaneously to arm C patients, in a separate bag using a Y-line, or alone to arm A patients, by i.v. infusion, over 2 hours. 5-FU was then administered to arms A and C patients, first as a bolus injection over 2-4 minutes at a dose of 400 mg/m2, then as a continuous infusion in 500 ml of D5W over 22 hours at a dose of 600 mg/m2. LV was repeated on day 2 of the cycle (arms A and C) followed by a 400-mg/m2 5-FU bolus and a 600-mg/m2 22-hour infusion. Treatment was repeated every 2 weeks. Response rate was the prespecified end point for accelerated approval. Time to progression (TTP) was a secondary end point. The prespecified primary comparison was between the 5-FU/LV regimen and the 5-FU/LV/ oxaliplatin combination regimen. The three arms were well balanced for patient prognostic factors. There were no complete responders. The partial response rates were 0%, 1%, and 9% for the 5-FU/LV, oxaliplatin, and oxaliplatin plus 5-FU/LV treatments, respectively (p = 0.0002, arm C versus arm A). The median times to radiographic tumor progression, based on available radiographs, were 2.7 months, 1.6 months, and 4.6 months, respectively (p or =65 years of age, but older patients may have been more susceptible to dehydration, diarrhea, hypokalemia, and fatigue. Oxaliplatin in combination with infusional 5-FU/LV was approved for the treatment of patients with metastatic carcinoma of the colon or rectum whose disease has recurred or progressed during or within 6 months of completion of first-line therapy with the combination of bolus 5-FU/LV and irinotecan. Approval was based on response rate and on an interim analysis of TTP. No results are available, at this time, that demonstrate a clinical benefit, such as improvement in disease-related symptoms or survival.
Analysis of linear systems in the presence of actuator saturation and L/sub 2/-disturbances

This paper presents a method for the analysis and control design of linear systems in the presence of actuator saturation and L/sub 2/-disturbances. A simple condition is derived under which trajectories starting from an ellipsoid will remain inside an outer ellipsoid. The stability and disturbance tolerance/rejection ability of the closed-loop system under a given feedback law is measured by the size of these two ellipsoids and the difference between them. Based on the above mentioned condition, the problem of estimating the largest inner ellipsoid and/or the smallest difference between the two ellipsoid is then formulated as a constrained optimization problem. All the constraints are shown to be equivalent to LMIs. In addition, disturbance rejection ability in terms of L/sub 2/ gain is also determined by the solution of an LMI optimization problem. By viewing the feedback gain as an additional free parameter, the optimization problem can easily be adapted for controller design. Numerical examples show that the proposed analysis and design methods significantly improve recent results on the same problems.
Weight‐bearing MRI of patellofemoral joint cartilage contact area

Purpose: To measure contact area of cartilage in the patellofemoral joint during weight bearing using an open MRI scanner. Materials and Methods: We developed an MR-compatible back support that allows three-dimensional imaging of the patellofemoral cartilage under physiologic weight-bearing conditions with negligible motion artifact in an open MRI scanner. To measure contact areas, we trained observers using a phantom of known area and tested intra- and interobserver variability. We measured in vivo contact areas between the patella and femoral cartilage with the knee in 30 degrees of flexion, loaded and unloaded, in six volunteers. Results: We were able to measure the contact area of the patellofemoral cartilage with small interobserver (CV 7.0%) and intraobserver (CV 3.0%) variation. At 30 degrees of knee flexion, mean contact area increased from 400 mm 2 (unloaded) to 522 mm 2 (loaded to 0.45 times body weight per leg). Conclusion: Using an open magnet and specially designed apparatus, it is possible to image the patellar cartilage during physiologic loading. Knowledge of patellar cartilage contact area is needed to assess patellofemoral stress, which may be increased in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome.
When does the lung die?Kfc, cell viability, and adenine nucleotide changes in the circulation-arrested rat lung

Jones, David R., Randy M. Becker, Steve C. Hoffmann, John J. Lemasters, and Thomas M. Egan. When does the lung die? K fc, cell viability, and adenine nucleotide changes in the circulation-arrested ...