cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of repeated injections of cocaine on catecholamine receptor binding sites, dopamine transporter binding sites and behavior in rhesus monkey.

Abstract In order to determine if repeated injections of cocaine produced long-lasting alterations in catecholaminergic binding sites, rhesus monkeys were treated with saline (1.0 ml/15 kg) or cocaine (3.0–4.0 mg/kg) four times daily for 14 consecutive days and sacrified two weeks after the last injection. The densities of dopamine D 1 receptor binding sites, dopamine transporter binding sites and β adrenergic receptor binding sites were significantly decreased in caudate nucleus to 51%, 17% and 61% of control, respectively, two weeks after repeated cocaine injections. There were no differences in D 2 receptor binding site densities in the caudate, nor were there differences in binding sites between groups in the other brain regions examined: prefrontal cortex (D 1 , D 2 , dopamine transporter, β), nucleus accumbens (D 1 , D 2 , dopamine transporter) and substantia nigra (D 2 ). Behavioral observation showed that the cocaine-treated monkeys became sensitized to the repeated injections. Early in the regimen, these animals displayed stereotypic grooming, buccal movements and visual checking after each injection that differed significantly from the saline-treated animals. As the regimen progressed, the frequency of grooming decreased while the frequencies of visual tracking and splayed legs increased in a manner consistent with the development of behavioral sensitization. Together, these findings suggest that the caudate nucleus may be more sensitive than other dopamine-containing brain regions to long-lasting pre- and post-synaptic effects of repeated cocaine administration, and that the changes seen in dopaminergic neurons may be related to behavioral sensitization.
Murugesu Sivapalan receives 2010 Hydrologic Sciences Award: Citation

[1] Murugesu Sivapalan received the 2010 Hydrologic Sciences Award at the 2010 AGU Fall Meeting, held 13–17 December in San Francisco, Calif. The award is for outstanding contributions to the science of hydrology.
A Preliminary PIV and Analytical Investigation of Wall Shear in Micro Channel Slug Flow

This paper describes the methods and initial results of an investigation aimed at answering questions of engineering significance pertaining to slug flow. The authors use two approaches to study slug flow. First, the analytical solution of Gaskell et al and Gurcan [5,6] is examined in detail, with special attention being paid to its predictions pertaining to the special case of slug flow. The numerical behavior of this solution and the measures needed to enhance its convergence are also commented upon. Second, micro-PIV data of water/oil slug flow in a micro-channel is reported and examined in light of the predictions of the Gaskell model. Quantitative results showing the details of the re-circulating internal flow fields in the slugs are presented. Results for wall shear stress distributions and evolution of the velocity profiles from the centerline to the rear interface are also presented. Significant increases in the wall shear stress (compared to a fully developed Poiseuille flow) are observed in the regions near the fluid interfaces.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Body image of sexually and physically abused children

Body size perception was measured in 41 children aged 6-10 who had been either sexually or physically abused, or had no history of abuse. Two psychophysical methods were used, including the staircase method and a signal detection method. In the staircase methodology, children adjusted the direction of distortion of their continuously changing body size. In the signal detection method, children made judgments about the presence or absence of size distortion in presented images. Results using the staircase method indicated children overestimated their body sizes, with no differences between abuse conditions, gender, or age. For the signal detection methodology, no difference in ability to detect the presence/absence of size distortion (d') was found between abuse conditions, although females were less accurate than males. All groups were better able to detect distortion when the image was distorted too wide. Measures of response bias (Ln beta) indicated that sexually abused children had a greater bias to report size distortion as present, as compared with the physically abused children. Language: en
Predictive and Prognostic Value of CA 19-9 in Resected Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

Preoperative serum values of CA 19-9 have been reported to be associated with survival in patients undergoing resection of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Preoperative CA 19-9 levels are associated with margin and/or lymph node status in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic carcinoma. We conducted a review of 143 patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma from July 2001 through April 2006 at our institution. Preoperative serum values of CA 19-9 and total bilirubin, pathologic findings, and survival were analyzed. A cutoff value for CA 19-9 (120 U/ml) was determined using a Cox proportional hazards model for survival. Overall survival at 1, 3, and 5 years for patients with CA 19-9 ≤ 120 U/ml was 76%, 41%, and 31%, respectively, versus 64%, 17%, and 10% for patients with CA 19-9 > 120 U/ml (p = 0.002). CA 19-9 > 120 U/ml was not associated, however, with a greater chance of an R1 or R2 resection (p = 0.86), tumor involving the SMA margin (p = 0.88), tumor at the portal vein groove (p = 0.14), or lymph node metastases (p = 0.89). Our findings do not support a cutoff value for CA 19-9 that is associated with margin or lymph node involvement. Preoperative CA 19-9 ≤ 120 U/ml is, however, associated with increased overall and recurrence-free survival.
Optical packet switching and optical burst switching: Technologies, systems, and networking issues for the future Internet

We will review and discuss future prospects for optical packet switching and burst switching technologies. Component, system, and networking technologies, and their impacts in future networks will be discussed.
Evolution of the Earth's distant magnetotail: ISEE 3 electron plasma results

ISEE 3 data form the basis for a study of the evolution of the electron plasma in the magnetotail lobe and plasma sheet regions as a function of radial distance from the earth. The data were plasma electron and magnetometer measurements taken when the ISEE 3 was tailward of the earth during three different orbits. About 91,000 electron spectra were obtained in terms of the magnetosheath, lobe, plasma sheet and radial downstream distances. The lobe density peaked at 60 earth radii, while the sheet density tapered very slowly downstream. At large downstream distances (about 180 radii), the plasma bulk flow velocity increased significantly, surpassing the solar wind velocity. The bimodal electron flow angle near the earth became a single tailward flow at 180 radii.
Novel Refreshable N-Halamine Polymeric Biocides: N-Chlorination of Aromatic Polyamides

Chlorination of poly(m-phenyleneisophthalamide) (Nomex) and poly(p-phenyleneterephthalamide) (Kevlar) fabrics by sodium hypochlorite aqueous solution was investigated. Results indicated that stable N-halamine structures could be readily formed in Nomex, which provided potent, durable, and refreshable antibacterial functions against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. However, similar chlorination treatment of Kevlar led to serious hydrolysis of the polymer. The treated fabrics were fully characterized by Fourier trasnform infrared, thermal, and X-ray diffraction studies. Possible mechanisms of this effect were discussed.
Inflation, human capital accumulation and long-run growth☆

Abstract In a model where money enters the production function, Wang and Yip (1992) find money to be superneutral with respect to the economy's long-run rate of growth. This result is not robust to a generalization of the technology of human capital accumulation. If human capital accumulation requires the input of physical capital, then money is not superneutral with respect to the economy's growth rate. However, for reasonable parameterizations of the model, inflation is found to have only small effects on growth.
Translation of the prophage λ cl transcript

Mutations in rpsB that reduce the levels of the ribosomal protein S2 enhance the translation of cl in lambda lysogens. Two features of the cl transcript are required for enhanced translation: the absence of a leader and the presence of a downstream box, a sequence within the cl coding region that is complementary to the 16S rRNA. 30S ribosomal subunits deficient in S2 form ternary complexes with the cl transcript more efficiently than wild-type subunits. The absence of S2 may change the structure of the 16S rRNA, improving contacts with the cl downstream box.
Observation of an optical-modulation effect on second harmonic generation in C60 thin films

Abstract We report optical modulation effects on second harmonic generation (SHG) in C 60 films. It was observed that a large second harmonic response of C 60 films (in a corona poling field of 5.5 kV at a nominal temperature of 140 °C) was almost completely suppressed when the film was illuminated with a second visible-light source (pulsed or steady state). The magnitude of the SHG suppression was measured as a function of the wavelength and intensity of the second source. By scanning the time interval between a “suppression” pulse and the SHG generation pulse we found that the lead time required for the suppression effect is about 250 ps.
Fidelity of Pathogen-Specific CD4+ T Cells to the Th1 Lineage Is Controlled by Exogenous Cytokines, Interferon-γ Expression, and Pathogen Lifestyle

The degree of lineage stability achieved by pathogen-specific CD4(+) T cells in vivo, and how this impacts host defense against infection, remains unclear. We demonstrate that in response to Th1-polarizing intracellular bacterial or viral pathogens, only 80%-90% of responding polyclonal T cells become indelibly committed to this lineage. Th1 commitment was nearly invariant in cells that proliferated extensively, but perturbations to the extrinsic cytokine milieu or the pathogen's ability to enter the cytosol impeded commitment and promoted plasticity for future IL-17 expression. Conversely, cell-intrinsic interferon-gamma expression and acquisition of permissive chromatin at the Ifng gene during priming predicted heritable Th1 commitment. Importantly, CD4(+) T cells that retained plasticity conferred protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, while these protective effects were abolished with Th17 polarization. These findings illustrate the immune signals that induce memory CD4(+) T cell responses required for maintaining host defense against infection yet are adaptable in novel environmental contexts.
Differentiative potential of human metanephric mesenchymal cells

Abstract Objective To evaluate the ability of mesenchymal cells derived from nonhematopoietic organs to form blood and other tissues in vitro and in vivo. Materials and Methods Because of its mesodermic derivation, human fetal kidney was used as a source of mesenchymal cells. Two populations of kidney cells were studied at a nonclonal level: a crude preparation, and an adherent fraction that was derived from the first by propagation in vitro (MNMC). Both populations were transplanted into sheep fetuses and analyzed at intervals for the presence of human cells in different organs by flow cytometry, PCR, immunohistochemistry, and in situ hybridization. Secondary transplantation studies were performed using human hematopoietic cells obtained from the bone marrow (BM) of primary recipients. Results MNMC were Thy-1 + , CD51 + , CD44 + , CD45 − , and vimentin + , a phenotype consistent with that of metanephric mesenchyme. The crude population displayed the same phenotype but was contaminated with 0.4% CD34 + CD45 + cells. Cells with hepatocyte-like morphology and phenotype were obtained from the MNMC after culture in specific inducing media. After transplantation, both populations of cells produced multilineage hematopoietic engraftment and gave rise to CD34 + cells. Successful hematopoietic engraftment in secondary recipients demonstrated the generation of long-term engrafting hematopoietic stem cells from MNMC. PCR analysis confirmed human hematopoietic engraftment and revealed that human cells were also present within other organs. Liver sections of transplanted animals contained human albumin-producing hepatocyte-like cells. Conclusion A human metanephric mesenchymal cell population simultaneously gave rise to human blood and liver-like cells, suggesting that mesenchymal cells may represent a broad population of putative stem cells in multiple adult organs.
Chronicle of laser usage in equine surgery

Abstract Laser is the acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation; the first laser beam was generated in 1960 and initially used for medical application in 1963. Today's modern surgical laser units produce an intensely focused light beam of uniform wavelength that interacts with a variety of biological cell types to vaporize, cut, coagulate, or shrink tissues. The resulting effect depends on the optical properties of the tissue and the wavelength, power output, spot size, and duration of laser beam application. Different lasers are suited to specific surgical tasks relative to their beam wavelength, power output, mode of operation (continuous, pulsed or superpulsed), and application (contact or noncontact) and instrumentation. The documented advantages of laser surgery over conventional surgical procedures are improved hemostasis, the ability to ablate or vaporize tissue, endoscopic access to body cavities, improved postoperative comfort, and shorter hospitalization and recovery times. By the mid-1980s, laser use in equine surgery was reported; the carbon dioxide and neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet were the first models integrated into practice. The primary application of laser technology in equine surgery was for the correction of various upper-respiratory tract abnormalities and still remains the most prevalent use through endoscopy. Today, surgical lasers are used for the treatment of problems in the urinary, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems, in addition to the skin and the eye. When we combine advances in laser technology and the practice of equine surgery, the result is clinicians better equipped to treat and manage the more difficult cases.
Description of a Nearly Complete Juvenile Skull of Diplodocus (Sauropoda: Diplodocoidea) from the Late Jurassic of North America

ABSTRACT More than any other sauropod dinosaur group, the long-necked herbivores belonging to Diplodocoidea have been defined by their skulls. Their unique skull shape, which is extremely elongate antorbitally, with a transversely broad, square snout packed at its anterior extreme with narrow-crowned, pencil-like teeth, has served as a touchstone for describing the biology of these animals ever since the discovery of the first skull in the late 19th century. In particular, the unusual diplodocoid skull has been discussed frequently in the context of examining feeding behavior, spawning hypotheses ranging from branch stripping, propalinal shearing, and aquatic plant ‘grazing.’ Here, we describe a juvenile skull of Diplodocus (Carnegie Museum 11255) that does not share the unusually blunted snout and anteriorly sequestered teeth seen in adult specimens, suggesting that adults and juveniles may have differed greatly in their feeding behavior, an ontogenetic distinction that may be unique among sauropodomorphs.
Safety and Efficacy of Testosterone Gel 1% Augmentation in Depressed Men With Partial Response to Antidepressant Therapy

The current study evaluates the efficacy and safety of testosterone (T) gel 1% augmentation on depressive symptoms and quality of life in treatment-resistant, depressed, hypogonadal men older than 50 years of age who are receiving antidepressants. The authors hypothesized that T augmentation would improve depressive symptoms and quality of life. Eighteen hypogonadal men entered the study who had had an adequate trial of antidepressant therapy and had significant depressive symptoms. Participants were continued on their antidepressant and were randomized to receive either placebo or active T gel (5 g) to be applied once a day. Participants were tested on 6 occasions: screening visit, an initial session (pretreatment), at 6 and 12 weeks during the first treatment condition, and at 18 and 24 weeks during the crossover condition. The authors found a significant improvement in depressive symptoms from baseline to 12 weeks of testosterone treatment. However, a statistical difference between placebo and testosterone treatment phases was not demonstrated. The limitations of the study, including the chronicity and severity of patients' depression, variability in T levels, and a small sample size, probably influenced the ability to detect a discernable difference. Nevertheless, the study shows that T gel augmentation may be helpful in hypogonadal males with depression.
Fractures in the crystal: Developmental psychopathology and the emergence of self.

The first part of this article defines the self's conception and development from an organizational perspective. Emphasis is directed to the interplay of biological, caregiving, cognitive, and ecological-environmental factors. Following, discussion turns to a series of studies with children who have Down syndrome to show the effects of biologically based risk factors on early self-development. Then using samples of maltreated children, data are used to reveal the perturbations in self development that arise from problems with attachment relationships and caregiving environments. The concluding section suggests how understanding the self's early development provides insight about maladaptive behavior and psychopathology in self as a consequence of risk. In turn, investigations of high-risk conditions inform us about self and its normal development. Both approaches open up vistas for long-term studies of early self-development.
Inactivation of thymidylate kinase by a microsomal factor.

Abstract A factor which promotes the inactivation of Ehrlich ascites TMP kinase (EC 2.7.4.9), TDP kinase (EC 2.7.4.6) and dCMP deaminase (EC 3.5.4.12) in vitro was partially purified from rat-liver microsomes. The factor is heat-labile and has a large molecular weight. During preincubation of this factor with TMP kinase and TDP kinase, TMP kinase is inactivated to a greater degree than TDP kinase. The inactivation can be partially prevented by the presence of TMP, thymidine or mercaptoethanol during the preincubation. The microsomal factor has no detectable phosphatase or proteolytic activity.
Conception intervals and the substitution of fertility over time

Abstract This paper applies the waiting-time regression methods of Olsen and Wolpin (1983) to an analysis of fertility. A utility-maximizing model is set up and used to provide some guidance for an empirical analysis. Data are from an experimental guaranteed job program, the Youth Incentive Entitlement Pilot Project. The study finds that young women consider the economic consequences of fertility.
Evaluation of Regional Aircraft Observations Using TAMDAR

Abstract A multiyear evaluation of a regional aircraft observation system [Tropospheric Aircraft Meteorological Data Reports (TAMDAR)] is presented. TAMDAR observation errors are compared with errors in traditional reports from commercial aircraft [aircraft meteorological data reports (AMDAR)], and the impacts of TAMDAR observations on forecasts from the Rapid Update Cycle (RUC) over a 3-yr period are evaluated. Because of the high vertical resolution of TAMDAR observations near the surface, a novel verification system has been developed and employed that compares RUC forecasts against raobs every 10 hPa; this revealed TAMDAR-related positive impacts on RUC forecasts—particularly for relative humidity forecasts—that were not evident when only raob mandatory levels were considered. In addition, multiple retrospective experiments were performed over two 10-day periods, one in winter and one in summer; these allowed for the assessment of the impacts of various data assimilation strategies and varying data re...
The application of fourier-transformed near-infrared spectra to quantitative analysis by comparison of similarity indices (CARNAC)

A new technique for utilising near-infrared spectroscopic data for quantitative analysis is proposed. The method uses a database of spectra stored in the form of the Fourier transform together with the associated chemical analysis. The spectrum of an unknown sample is compared to each member of the database and a small subset of very similar samples is isolated. The analyte value for the unknown is calculated from the analytical values of the subset. Results are given for the application of the method to the analysis of nicotine in tobacco.
Sensitive and Selective Label-Free DNA Detection by Conjugated Polymer-Based Microarrays and Intercalating Dye

We have demonstrated label-free and signal-amplifying DNA microarray using a conjugated polymer and an intercalating dye SYBR green I. Efficient FRET from the conjugated polymer to the dye produced large signal amplification so that without losing good selectivity, sensitive detection of subpicomolar concentrations of the target DNA was achieved.
Intrapartal Nursing Care: Research into Practice

One of the nursing profession's major goals is to advance the ideal of research‐based nursing practice. Much has been written during the past decade about the difficulties inherent in achieving the goal of applying research findings to practice. With the increasing national interest in promoting optimal women's health care reforms, one area that should receive renewed interest is that of intrapartal nursing care in the hospital setting. In particular, second stage labor management is supported by considerable research, much of it conducted by nurses, that has not been incorporated into mainstream nursing care. This article discusses the issues surrounding research utilization within the context of nursing practice today, particularly in relation to existing barriers. Using intrapartal nursing care as a focal point to examine these issues, implications for a stronger emphasis on an empirical basis for practice are be identified. Recommendations for approaches to facilitate the process of research utilization by maternity nurse clinicians also is delineated.
Tumor necrosis factor production by Kupffer cells requires protein kinase C activation.

Abstract Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) has been proposed as a primary inflammatory mediator of septic shock. In vitro and in vivo studies indicate that endotoxin- or lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated macrophages are a principle source of TNF; however, membrane signal transduction and intracellular pathways by which LPS triggers TNF production in macrophages are unclear. Recent evidence indicates that specific protein phosphorylation via activation of protein kinase C (PKC) is an early, critical step in the signaling of macrophage TNF production by phorbol esters. We hypothesize that PKC activation is also required in LPS-signaled Kupffer cell (KC) TNF production. Murine KCs were obtained by liver perfusion and digestion and then stimulated with LPS ( Escherichia coli 0111:B4) or LPS in the presence of H-7, a selective PKC inhibitor. Conditioned media was collected at 3 hr for assay of TNF utilizing the L929 cytolysis bioassay standardized to murine-rTNF-α. We found that H-7 inhibited significantly LPS signaled TNF release at a concentration of 10 μ M , while H-8 (a cyclic nucleotide specific inhibitor) had no effect. The effect of H-7 was dose dependent and present at varying concentrations of LPS. Down regulation of PKC activity by preincubation of KCs with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA, a direct activator of PKC) also resulted in significantly reduced TNF release after LPS stimulation. The inhibitor H-7 (10 μ M ) also significantly inhibited LPS signaled prostaglandin E 2 release in Kupffer cells. Total and specific intracellular protein phosphorylation was determined by trichloroacetic acid precipititation and SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis after labeling stimulated Kupffer cells with 32 P i. Total protein phosphorylation was not significantly altered by LPS stimulation; however, autoradiograms from PMA- and LPS-stimulated KCs demonstrate enhanced phosphorylation of a 40-kDa protein (2.7 ± 0.9-fold) and a 33-kDa protein (3.1 ± 1.0-fold) which were inhibited by H-7. We conclude that activation of PKC and protein phosphorylation are required steps in the signal transduction pathway of LPS-stimulated TNF production in Kupffer cells.
The behavior of thin oil films in the presence of porous lubricant reservoirs

Abstract Oil filled porous reservoirs are usually incorporated in the bearing cavities of spacecraft to replenish the lubricant that has been lost through evaporation. The replenishment is expected to occur through both vapor and surface transport. It is shown that only for the roughest surfaces (sand-blasted) does oil flow by surface transport from the reservoirs. On smooth surfaces the presence of the reservoir creates an instability in any existing oil film such that de-wetting occurs. In this process no oil leaves the reservoir.
Henry's Law Constants and Removal Processes for Several Atmospheric β-Hydroxy Alkyl Nitrates

The oxidation of atmospheric alkenes by OH radicals results in small yields of β-hydroxy alkyl nitrates that can then provide a vehicle for the ultimate removal of NOx from the atmosphere. Although rainout may be an efficient mechanism for the removal of these species from the atmosphere, the Henry's law constants for these species are largely unknown. In this work, the Henry's law constants for β-hydroxy alkyl nitrates that are produced from the atmospheric oxidation of small alkenes in the presence of NO have been determined, over the temperature range 279−304 K. The compounds investigated were 2-nitrooxyethanol, 1-nitrooxy-2-propanol, 2-nitrooxy-1-propanol, 2-nitrooxy-3-butanol, 1-nitrooxy-2-butanol, and 2-nitrooxy-1-butanol. At 298 K, the measured Henry's law constants were 38 800, 10 900, 4500, 10 100, 5800, and 6 000 M/atm, respectively. From estimates of the rates of removal of these species from the lower troposphere by wet and dry deposition, OH radical reaction, and photolysis, we find that wet ...
Time series simulation of voltage regulation device control modes

The integration of photovoltaic systems (PV) on distribution feeders may result in unfavorable increases in the number of operations of voltage regulation devices, or may decrease the effectiveness of their settings, resulting in the need for mitigation. Voltage regulation devices commonly use controllers that have time delay settings and sample power system parameters at a high frequency. Quasi-static time series (QSTS) power flow simulation is necessary to properly analyze the impact of distributed PV integration on voltage regulation device operations. It is possible to properly simulate complex control algorithms through a COM interface program, resulting in more realistic and valuable results.
Characteristic differences in clones isolated from an s37 ascites tumor in vitro.

Abstract Ascitic and cultured S37 cells and several derived cell populations isolated from ascitic S37 cells in vitro by 3 successive clonings on petri dishes were studied in relation to morphology, virulence, antigenicity, and karyotype. Clone E41 differed from other S37 cell populations not only in phenotype (i.e., lower degree of virulence and higher degree of antigenicity), but also in marker chromosomes.
Solidification in developing pipe flows

Abstract A numerical solution is presented for the problem of transient freezing of laminar flows inside a circular pipe. Unlike other available solutions on similar subjects, the flow motion in the present study is determined as part of the solution where the fluid transport process is represented by the elliptic Navier-Stokes equations characterized by diffusion in the radial and axial directions. In the solid and liquid regions, thermal diffusion is accounted for in the axial direction as well as in the radial direction. The vorticity-stream function approach is used in the formulation of the flow problem. A Landau transformation is applied to map the variable-geometry physical domain into a fixed-geometry computational domain. A time-lag procedure is employed to treat the moving grids, and interpolation is used to determine the field variables at the new grid locations from those known at the old grid points. Three cases of flow motion are considered: flow with uniform velocity at the entrance, flow with fully developed profile at the entrance, and slug flow through the pipe. The position of the solid-liquid interface, the temperature distribution, heat flux at the walls, and the heat transfer coeffcient at the interface have been calculated for prescribed and calculated velocity profiles. Differences in solidification rates for the three kinds of flow configurations demonstrate that the computed flow profiles show significantly different results from the slug flow case, demonstrating the need for accurate treatment of the flow field. The influences of the Reynolds and Stefan numbers on the solidification rate are also investigated. The accuracy of the present method is verified by comparing the results with the closest analytical solution using the case of a slug velocity profile through a pipe.
Brilliant Cresyl Blue as A Stain for Chromosome Smear Preparations

Brilliant cresyl blue is substituted for carmine in the acetocarmine technic. A mixture of one part of 1% toluidine blue and three parts 0.75% brilliant cresyl blue dissolved in 45% acetic acid gives good results. Propionic acid may be used instead of acetic acid for more rapid penetration.
Musculoskeletal Pain, Fear Avoidance Behaviors, and Functional Decline in Obesity: Potential Interventions to Manage Pain and Maintain Function

Individuals with musculoskeletal pain exhibit abnormal movement patterns, including antalgic gait, postural dysfunction, increased thoracolumbar stiffness, decreased proprioception, and altered activation of abdominal and extensor muscles. Additionally, aberrant or increased biomechanical forces over time produce joint or structural damage that results in pain. A large body habitus resulting from excessive weight can accelerate these musculoskeletal complaints. Irrespective of age, obesity contributes to chronic musculoskeletal pain, impairment of mobility, and eventual physical disability. Potential mechanisms that may mediate the relationships between obesity-related pain and functional decline include skeletal muscle strength deterioration, systemic inflammation, and psychosocial characteristics (eg, pain catastrophizing, kinesiophobia, and depression). Treatment considerations for obese patients with musculoskeletal pain include assessment of kinesiophobia levels, biomechanical analysis, and pain medication use. Ideally, a multidisciplinary team of physicians, psychologists, and physical therapists should optimize the design of interventions specific to the patient. In some cases, the use of appropriate pain medications or intra-articular injectable agents may help control pain, fostering sustained activity, caloric expenditure, and weight loss. Morbid obesity is a medical condition that alters biomechanical forces on the tissues of the body. This condition provides the opportunity to examine accelerated development of musculoskeletal pain syndromes and etiology. The proposed therapeutic interventions can have multiple benefits in the obese population including weight loss, improved psychological outlook and self-efficacy, reduced kinesiophobia levels, reduced risk of functional dependence, and improved quality of life.
Fast-regenerable sulfur dioxide absorbents for lean-burn diesel engine emission control

Abstract It is known that sulfur oxides contribute significantly and deleteriously to the overall performance of lean-burn diesel engine after-treatment systems, especially in the case of NOx traps. A silica-supported silver-based, fast regenerable SO2 absorbent has been developed and will be described. Over a temperature range of 300–550 °C, it absorbs SO2 present in a simulated exhaust gas during the lean cycles, and can be fully regenerated by short rich gas cycles at the same temperature. The preferred silica support is fumed silica. The thermal instability of Ag2O under fuel-lean conditions at 230 °C and above makes it possible to rapidly regenerate the sulfur-loaded absorbent during the fuel-rich cycle due to the lack of a requirement to simultaneously reduce Ag2O to Ag. Ag particles can also effectively oxidize SO2 to SO3, facilitating the formation of Ag2SO4 and requiring no additional oxidation catalysts. This absorbent shows great potential to work under the same lean-rich cycling conditions as those imposed on the NOx traps, and thus can protect the downstream particulate filter and the NOx trap from sulfur poisoning.
Radiation-Assisted Process Enhancement in Wastewater Treatment

Laboratory and pilot tests were conducted to investigate the use of ionizing radiation at an activated sludge wastewater treatment facility with residuals processing. Operational enhancements were investigated with respect to bulking control, thickening enhancement, and anaerobic stabilization processes. Radiation caused permanent effects in measured sludge parameters including solids content, chemical oxygen demand, ammonia-nitrogen, zeta potential, specific surface area, resistance to filtration, sludge volume index, pH, organic acid production, and digester gas evolution. Analysis of beneficial effects from preliminary studies and pilot tests demonstrated that a dose of 2–3 kGy would be potentially successful for bulking control and to a lesser degree, enhanced thickening and radiation-assisted anaerobic digestion. A cost analysis based on preliminary tests determined that a centralized electron beam irradiator could be applied economically in an integrated approach at an estimated annual savings of $0...
Foreground estimation in motion imagery using multi-frame change detection techniques

Using multi-frame change detection methods, we estimate which pixels include objects that are in motion relative to the background. We utilize both a sequential statistical change detection method and a sparsity-based change detection method. We perform foreground estimation in videos in which the background is static as well as in images in which apparent background motion is induced by camera motion. We show the results of our techniques on the background subtraction data set from the Statistical Visual Computing Lab at the University of California, San Diego(UCSD).
Uncertain Systems and Fuzzy Differential Equations

The study of fuzzy differential equations is initiated and some typical results are given in order to understand the intricacies involved in incorporating fuzziness in the terms of differential equations.
Vesicoureteral Reflux and Urinary Tract Infection in Children With a History of Prenatal Hydronephrosis—Should Voiding Cystourethrography be Performed in Cases of Postnatally Persistent Grade II Hydronephrosis?

Purpose: The clinical relevance of prenatal hydronephrosis is not well-defined. We determined the risk of febrile urinary tract infection in the absence of screening for vesicoureteral reflux, and whether postnatal voiding cystourethrography should be performed in patients with a history of prenatal hydronephrosis and postnatally persistent Society for Fetal Urology grade II hydronephrosis.Materials and Methods: From a longitudinal database of patients with prenatal hydronephrosis maintained since 1998 we identified those with postnatally persistent grade II hydronephrosis. This cohort was divided into patients who were and were not screened with an initial voiding cystourethrogram. The rates of vesicoureteral reflux and development of febrile urinary tract infection were determined.Results: Of 2,076 patients with prenatal hydronephrosis 1,514 had grade II hydronephrosis. Of the patients 76% underwent an initial voiding cystourethrogram and vesicoureteral reflux was found in 28%. There was no relation bet...
Coccidial infections acquired by sentinel birds exposed to litter from experimental and commercial broiler chickens 1

Summary A method devised to monitor the potential coccidial challenge present in commercial broiler house litter appears to have practical value. Coccidial infections were acquired by coccidia‐free chickens (sentinel birds) exposed to infected litter for a brief (48‐hour) period. Coccidial lesion scores and body weight changes in sentinel birds after exposure to litter were used to estimate coccidial infections. The inclusion of medicated groups of sentinel birds enabled an evaluation to be made of the efficacy of anticoccidial drugs on naturally acquired coccidial infections arising from exposure to commercial broiler house litter. The coccidial challenge of reused commercial broiler house litter was compared with litter new at the start of the crop. Only slightly higher coccidial challenge resulted from the reuse of litter. Oocyst counts were relatively high in litter from experimental pens and there was some correlation between numbers of oocysts found in the litter and infection acquired by sentinel b...
Scene context dependency of pattern constancy of time series imagery

A fundamental element of future generic pattern recognition technology is the ability to extract similar patterns for the same scene despite wide ranging extraneous variables, including lighting, turbidity, sensor exposure variations, and signal noise. In the process of demonstrating pattern constancy of this kind for retinex/visual servo (RVS) image enhancement processing, we found that the pattern constancy performance depended somewhat on scene content. Most notably, the scene topography and, in particular, the scale and extent of the topography in an image, affects the pattern constancy the most. This paper will explore these effects in more depth and present experimental data from several time series tests. These results further quantify the impact of topography on pattern constancy. Despite this residual inconstancy, the results of overall pattern constancy testing support the idea that RVS image processing can be a universal front-end for generic visual pattern recognition. While the effects on pattern constancy were significant, the RVS processing still does achieve a high degree of pattern constancy over a wide spectrum of scene content diversity, and wide ranging extraneousness variations in lighting, turbidity, and sensor exposure.
The minuet: An elegant phoenix

Of all the dances popular from the accession of Louis XIV to the throne of France in 1661 until the French Revolution in 1789, the minuet is surely the most universally associated with that elegant period, not only because of its great popularity in its heyday, but because it was the only baroque and rococo dance of that dancing time to be incorporated into the classical symphony and sonata, thereby remaining to the present day in the public ear (though not its eye), as a delightful reminder of an earlier time. Because of its currency, then, amateurs today are just as curious
Quantitative analysis of drug-receptor interactions: I. Determination of kinetic and equilibrium properties.

It has recently become possible to characterize a variety of different receptors by studying the binding of appropriate drugs labelled with 3H or 125I. The goal of this review is to describe the basic mathematical analyses that should be used to characterize a particular receptor in terms of its interactions with ligands. Methods for direct determination of kinetic and equilibrium constants of simple bimolecular drug-receptor interactions are described as is the use of these measurements to verify the existence of a simple second order reaction. Some of the causes of deviations from second order behavior which imply more complex interactions are also discussed. In vitro studies of radioligand binding provide a means of indirectly determining equilibrium dissociation constants of unlabelled drugs. The appropriate equations for these determinations are presented and the assumptions underlying these calculations are identified. Analysis of the temperature dependence of kinetic and equilibrium constants allows determination of the energetics of binding and methods are presented for calculation of the changes in Gibbs free energy, enthalpy and entropy that are associated with the binding of ligands to receptors. Studies of the interactions of agonists and antagonists with β-adrenergic receptors are presented as examples of the various types of calculations.
A monitoring system for low levels of hydrogen sulfide in alkanolamine streams

Abstract To meet the needs in gas-sweetening processes for on-line monitoring of low levels of hydrogen sulfide in alkanolamine solutions, an on-line analysis system has been developed based on the measurement of the intense and broad ultraviolet (u.v.) absorption of the H 2 S-amine bond. This system incorporates the following three features to provide the requird accuracy and reliability. To compensate for variation in sample background absorbance from additives and from degradation and corrosion products, a vacuum distillation step is used to strip out H 2 S from a process sample to provide an H 2 S-free “zero” standard. To compensate for the temperature sensitivity of the u.v. absorption of the H 2 S-amine bond, close temperature control as well as a temperature-compensating circuit is provided. To handle sample streams often containing heavy loadings of fine and well-dispersed particulate matter, a special self-cleaning filtering system is used.
Membrane Binding and Tubulation by N-BAR: The Effect of Membrane Composition and Membrane Lateral Tension

We are exploring the binding and deformation of vesicle membranes by N-BAR (Bin 1/Amphiphysin/RVS167). Giant unilamellar vesicles are prepared by electroformation from various mixtures of phospholipids, cholesterol, and sphingomyelin to test the effects of lipid charge and spontaneous curvature. The N-BAR domain (residues 1-247) of Drosophila melanogaster amphiphysin is added to vesicles in controlled amounts and the binding and/or deformations are recorded using differential interference and fluorescence microscopy. Suction is applied to the GUVs via micropipette aspiration to determine the influence of membrane lateral tension on vesicle deformation and binding. In parallel, floatation assays are performed on large unilamellar vesicles to determine the efficacy of membrane binding as a function of the membrane compositionWe acknowledge support from the NSF through grant no. DMR-0907195
Associations Between Parenting Behaviors and Adolescent Romantic Relationships

We examined associations between parenting behaviors and romantic relationship qualities in 102 adolescent girls 14-21 years of age who lived with their parent/parental figure and had current boyfriends. Adolescent girls' perceptions that parents were accepting/involved and provided appropriate strictness and supervision were significantly related to adolescent girls' perceptions of mutuality (i.e., bidirectional movement of thoughts, feelings, and activities between persons) within their own romantic relationships, which in turn was related to their romantic relationship satisfaction. No parenting variables were related to nonexclusivity.
Definitiveness of Impression and Primacy-Recency in Communications

(1958). Definitiveness of Impression and Primacy-Recency in Communications. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 48, No. 2, pp. 275-290.
Anatomy of the sternal origin of the pectoralis major: implications for subpectoral augmentation.

Background The pectoralis major typically is manipulated for implant coverage and pocket design in subpectoral breast augmentation. An understanding of its anatomy can guide successful creation of the implant pocket. Objectives The authors evaluated the anatomy of the sternal origin of the pectoralis major to inform surgical planning, help establish a technique for subpectoral augmentation mammaplasty, and identify the most common locations of perforators. Methods The sternal origins of 24 pectoralis major muscles were dissected and examined in 15 female cadavers to determine the structure and width of the pectoralis major sternal origin and its relationship to the locations of internal mammary perforators. Results The average width of the sternal origin of the pectoralis major was 7.1 mm (range, 3 mm-1.8 cm). This width decreased slightly from the second rib to the second intercostal space and then increased progressively in the caudal direction toward the fifth rib. The sternal origin terminated an average of 5.4 mm (range, 1-16 mm) from the midline, with the greatest distance at the fifth rib and large variability throughout. A row of perforators from the internal mammary artery traversed the subpectoral space an average of 2.7 cm from the midline (range, 1-3.7 cm). Conclusions The sternal origin of the pectoralis major was thin and highly variable, suggesting that its partial release for implant medialization during subpectoral augmentation is unsafe.
Coordination Complexity of Parallel Price-Directive Decomposition

The general block-angular convex resource sharing problem in K blocks and M nonnegative block-separable coupling constraints is considered. Applications of this model are in combinatorial optimization, network flows, scheduling, communication networks, engineering design, and finance. This paper studies the coordination complexity of approximate price-directive decomposition PDD for this problem, i.e., the number of iterations required to solve the problem to a fixed relative accuracy as a function of K and M. First a simple PDD method based on the classical logarithmic potential is shown to be optimal up to a logarithmic factor in M in the class of all PDD methods that work with the original unrestricted blocks. It is then shown that logarithmic and exponential potentials generate a polylogarithmically-optimal algorithm for a wider class of PDD methods which can restrict the blocks by the coupling constraints. As an application, the fastest currently-known deterministic approximation algorithm for minimum-cost multicommodity flows is obtained.
Numerical simulation of a radially inhomogeneous cylindrical plasma

Abstract The numerical time integration of an initial value problem based upon the nonlinear Vlasov equation as applied to an axisymmetric, inhomogeneous plasma column has been developed. All six components of the electric and magnetic fields are advanced self-consistently in time. An assumption has been made which neglects purely electromagnetic modes. Each field contains a contribution from plasma source terms calculated by a Green's function technique as well as a boundary value contribution which may be time dependent. The Vlasov equation has been reduced to a convenient numerical form by an extension of the standard Fourier-Hermite expansion. Radial dependence is discretized. Results are presented on the streaming instability of the electrostatic column.