cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
QUAlity of Life Assessment in Spina bifida for Adults (QUALAS-A): development and international validation of a novel health-related quality of life instrument

Purpose Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is important in spina bifida (SB) management. No clinically useful, comprehensive instrument incorporating bladder/bowel domains exists. We aimed to develop and validate a self-reported QUAlity of Life Assessment in Spina bifida for Adults (QUALAS-A).
Occupational Careers in Organizations: A Sociological Perspective

An occupational career, ideally, consists of entry into a position at the lowest rung of a career ladder, followed by an orderly sequence of promotions to positions at successively higher status levels and finally to retirement. Approximately 85 per cent of American workers are employed by work organizations. These organizations create occupational career lines with graded steps in order to obtain and retain proficient and loyal officials and specialists. Research reveals that few American men outside the professions, management and the skilled crafts have had occupational careers. The work lives of others have been characterized by lack of commitment to any specific occupation. The pursuit of an occupational career involves a number of pivotal decisions, including early occupational choice and decisions at various occupational turning points. These decisions are not made in isolation. Others are almost always involved and frequently crucial decisions affecting one's career are made by others. Social science concepts, theories and empirical findings can be used to develop a relatively rational approach to career planning.
Interaction of indoleacetic acid and glyphosate on phenolic metabolism in soybeans

Abstract This study examined indoleacetic acid (IAA) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) for effects and possible interactions with glyphosate on growth, extractable phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL, EC 4.3.1.5) activity, soluble hydroxyphenolic compound levels, and anthocyanin accumulation in intact plants. Root feeding of soybean [ Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seedlings in liquid culture with IAA (10 μ M ) and 2,4-D (2 μ M ) in combination with glyphosate (0.5 m M ) in the light (200 μE · m −2 · sec −1 , PAR) did not reverse glyphosate's reduction of elongation or fresh weight. IAA plus glyphosate caused higher levels of hydroxyphenolics (per axis) than did glyphosate alone under light or dark growth. Glyphosate plus 2,4-D in the dark resulted in a phenolic content lower than that of glyphosate alone. Glyphosate's reduction of anthocyanin accumulation in hypocotyls was only marginally reversed by IAA (ca. 15%) and by 2,4-D (ca. 8%). IAA had little effect on extractable PAL in the light or dark, but 2,4-D was a potent inhibitor. Glyphosate increased extractable PAL activity in light- and dark-grown plants and IAA (in light) and 2,4-D (in light and dark) were antagonistic. Alterations of PAL activity, anthocyanin, and phenolic content caused by IAA and 2,4-D were not commensurate with growth reductions, suggesting that IAA (and the parameters altered by IAA) is not primarily involved in glyphosate's mode of action.
Demyelinating Activity of Canine Distemper Virus Isolates in Gnotobiotic Dogs

Demyelination was induced in 16 of 35 gnotobiotic dogs by infection with canine distemper virus from a naturally occurring case of demyelinating distemper. In addition, this infection induced absolute lymphopenia, which persisted for several weeks. Two forms of demyelinating disease occurred after infection. Eleven dogs developed neurological signs several weeks after infection and rapidly became moribund. They remained lymphopenic and had thymic atrophy and generalized lymphoid depletion. Hematogenous mononuclear inflammatory cells were not present in the brains of these dogs. In contrast, demyelination associated with nonsuppurative encephalitis was demonstrated in five of 24 dogs that survived the 12-week observation period. Lymphocyte counts were normal in the 24 surviving dogs by eight weeks after infection. A French strain of canine distemper virus induced demyelination in three of 17 gnotobiotic dogs, while no demyelination occurred in eight dogs inoculated with either Snyder-Hill or glial tissue cultureadapted (Lederle) canine distemper virus.
Purification of commercial gellan to monovalent cation salts results in acute modification of solution and gel-forming properties.

Abstract Lithium, sodium, potassium, and ammonium salts of the industrial polysaccharide gellan were prepared. The salts were freely soluble in water at room temperature (25°C). The opinion had been generally held that heating to 100°C was necessary for gellan to achieve complete solubility in the presence of mono- or multivalent cations. Then, upon cooling, the solutions would form gels. These conclusions were based on the properties imposed upon gellan samples by the presence of contaminating divalent cations. Commercial gellan samples contain calcium and magnesium at levels exceeding 0.9%, sufficient for counterion formation with over one-third of gellan's carboxyl groups. Purification was rapid and included sequential treatments with a cation-exchange (H+) resin, LiOH, NaOH, KOH, or NH4OH, and an anion-exchange (Cl−) resin. About 95% of the divalent cations and nearly 90% of the phosphate that contaminated commercial gellan were removed. The purified monovalent salts of gellan set in the presence of divalent cations and provide well-defined agents for gelling media used for propagation of microbes and plants. In a manner analogous to sodium alginate, solutions of lithium, sodium, potassium, or ammonium gellanate form beads when dropped into solutions of divalent cations. This property was exploited for entrapment of enzymes and cells in beads.
Electron mobility and terahertz absorption due to interactions with confined acoustic phonons in a free-standing quantum well

Abstract Electron transport and optical parameters of a free-standing quantum well are studied theoretically. Electron interactions with photons and confined acoustic phonons through the deformation potential are treated rigorously. The quantum kinetic equation for the electron distribution function is solved numerically for nondegenerate as well as degenerate electron gases and the electron momentum relaxation time, the electron mobility and the absorption coefficient in tetrahertz range are obtained. Both the electron transport and optical parameters exhibit peculiarities, related to the confined acoustic phonon spectrum. They are displayed as peaks at the electron momentum relaxation time dependence on energy and at the second derivative of the absorption coefficient over photon energy. The positions of the peaks is associated with the energies of confined acoustic phonons.
Albumin immobilized on agarose as a tool for measuring ligand binding by proteins or peptides

Abstract Bovine serum albumin immobilized on agarose has been tested in competitive binding studies as a means of measuring the binding of cortisol, tryptophan, fatty acids, and bilirubin to a number of albumins and albumin fragments. Chemical coupling of albumin to agarose does not appear to alter the primary binding sites for most ligands and the degree of ligand binding by immobilized albumin is comparable to that by soluble albumin. Evaluation of ligand binding by a protein based on its competition with immobilized protein is suggested as a convenient procedure particularly well suited to proteins and ligands whose size precludes investigation by dialysis or whose instability demands a rapid procedure.
Ground Squirrel Hepatitis Virus Infection

Twenty-four adult Beechey ground squirrels persistently infected with the hepatitis B virus-related ground squirrel hepatitis virus (GSHV) remained infected with high levels of viral surface antigen (GSHsAg) and virion-associated DNA polymerase activity in the blood for over 2 years in captivity. Unlike humans infected with hepatitis B virus, no GSHsAg-bearing ground squirrels had surface antigen in the blood without DNA polymerase-containing virions, and the levels of these did not change. Only a very mild hepatitis was observed histologically in some of the virus-infected animals, with faint Shikata-staining detectable in some. Other animals exhibited no histologic evidence of hepatitis. While the closely related woodchuck hepatitis virus has been associated with more severe chronic hepatitis and a high incidence of liver cancer in woodchucks, these were not found in GSHV-infected ground squirrels when a similar number of animals were followed for a similar time of observation. Experimental infection of ground squirrels with no evidence of current or past GSHV infection resulted in three types of response: (i) self-limited or transient GSHV-positive infection; (ii) GSHV-positive infection which became persistent, and (iii) primary anti-GSHs and anti-GSHc (antibody to the viral core antigen) responses without detectable GSHsAg or virion DNA polymerase activity in the blood. These responses are similar to those observed following experimental infection of man with HBV. GSHV produced none of the three responses when injected into a variety of laboratory animal species and a chimpanzee, causing only an antibody response to GSHsAg. No evidence of current or past infection was detected in a number of animal species from an area endemic for GSHV. The virus has only been found in one area of northern California, with a carrier rate in that location reaching 52%.
The influence of positive experiences on depression and quality of life in persons with multiple sclerosis.

Purpose: This correlational study determined the extent to which positive, rather than negative, experiences influence depressive symptoms and quality of life in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS...
THE GROUND AXIOM IS CONSISTENT WITH V ≠ HOD

The Ground Axiom asserts that the universe is not a nontrivial set-forcing extension of any inner model. Despite the apparent second-order nature of this assertion, it is first-order expressible in set theory. The previously known models of the Ground Axiom all satisfy strong forms of V = HOD. In this article, we show that the Ground Axiom is relatively consistent with V ≠ HOD. In fact, every model of ZFC has a class-forcing extension that is a model of ZFC + GA + V ≠ HOD. The method accommodates large cardinals: every model of ZFC with a supercompact cardinal, for example, has a class-forcing extension with ZFC + GA + V ≠ HOD in which this supercompact cardinal is preserved.
Biologically inspired tactile classification of object-hand and object-world interactions

During manipulation, a grasped object may slip relative to either the hand or the environment, with quite different consequences. In humans these events excite the mechanoreceptors differently, which allows them to be identified and reacted to accordingly. This paper presents a tactile sensor suite that can produce an array of signals over a wide range of frequencies and investigates combinations of sensors and frequency ranges that make it possible to distinguish object/hand slippage from object/world slippage for a variety of textures and conditions. The approach is demonstrated in controlled experiments, producing both types of slip.
The role of human endogenous retroviruses in trophoblast differentiation and placental development

A major portion of the human genome appears to be of retroviral origin. These endogenous retroviral elements are expressed in a variety of normal tissues and during disease states, such as autoimmune and malignant conditions. Recently, potential roles have been described for endogenous retroviral envelope proteins in normal differentiation of human villous cytotrophoblast into syncytiotrophoblast. This article provides a brief critical review of the current state of knowledge concerning the expression of the env regions of three endogenous retroviral elements: ERV-3, HERV-W, and HERV-FRD. A testable model of villous cytotrophoblast differentiation is constructed, in which a complementary expression of endogenous retroviral envelope proteins initiates hCG production, decreased cell proliferation, and intercellular fusion.
Orthostatic Responses to Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibition in Persons With Tetraplegia

Abstract Wecht JM, Radulovic M, LaFountaine MF, Rosado-Rivera D, Zhang R-L, Bauman WA. Orthostatic responses to nitric oxide synthase inhibition in persons with tetraplegia. Objectives To determine the effects of 1.0mg/kg nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) on orthostatic mean arterial pressure (MAP), serum aldosterone, and plasma renin concentrations in persons with chronic tetraplegia compared with nonspinal cord–injured controls. Design Prospective placebo-controlled intervention study. Setting James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Participants Patients (n=5) with tetraplegia and controls (n=7) participated. The groups were matched for age, height, and weight; the average duration of injury in the tetraplegia group was 22±14 years. Intervention Subjects with tetraplegia visited the laboratory twice, receiving placebo on day 1 and L-NAME (1.0mg/kg) on day 2. The agents were infused via an intravenous catheter over 60 minutes with the patient in the supine position. Data were collected during the infusion and then during head-up tilt to 45° for 30 minutes. Control subjects visited the laboratory once for placebo infusion and the head-up tilt maneuver. Main Outcome Measure Orthostatic MAP. Results Orthostatic MAP was reduced after placebo infusion in subjects with tetraplegia compared with controls (69±11 vs 89±9mmHg, respectively; P P Conclusions These data suggest that nitric oxide synthase inhibition may have clinical potential for treatment of orthostatic hypotension in persons with chronic tetraplegia.
Susceptibility to Secondary Francisella tularensis Live Vaccine Strain Infection in B-Cell-Deficient Mice Is Associated with Neutrophilia but Not with Defects in Specific T-Cell-Mediated Immunity

Previous studies have demonstrated a role for B cells, not associated with antibody production, in protection against lethal secondary infection of mice with Francisella tularensis live vaccine strain (LVS). However, the mechanism by which B cells contribute to this protection is not known. To study the specific role of B cells during secondary LVS infection, we developed an in vitro culture system that mimics many of the same characteristics of in vivo infection. Using this culture system, we showed that B cells do not directly control LVS infection but that control of LVS growth is mediated primarily by LVS-primed T cells. Importantly, B cells were not required for the generation of effective memory T cells since LVS-primed, B-cell-deficient (BKO) mice generated CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells that controlled LVS infection similarly to LVS-primed CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells from wild-type mice. The control of LVS growth appeared to depend primarily on gamma interferon and nitric oxide and was similar in wild-type and BKO mice. Rather, the inability of BKO mice to survive secondary LVS infection was associated with marked neutrophil influx into the spleen very early after challenge. The neutrophilia was directly associated with B cells, since BKO mice reconstituted with naive B cells prior to a secondary challenge with LVS had decreased bacterial loads and neutrophils in the spleen and survived.
Wealth Management Through Dynasty Trusts

The author discusses the use of dynasty trusts, which he defines as trusts designed to continue as long as the law would allow. The assets invested within the trusts would be made available for whatever generation was in need, or alternatively, would distribute from the trust as required by law to, perhaps, fifth generation descendants. The author examines the estate and gift tax law environment and then describes the power of a dynasty trust strategy. He then discusses ways in which that power can be enhanced, through an analysis of four possible transactions. He concludes by pointing to incremental benefits such as state tax savings or asset protection.
A theoretical note on sex linkage and race differences in spatial visualization ability

Evidence on the poorer spatial visualization ability in various Negro populations compared to the white populations and on the direction and magnitude of sex differences in spatial ability relative to other abilities suggests the genetic hypothesis that spatial ability is enhanced by a sex-linked recessive gene and that, since the 20–30% admixture of Caucasian genes in American Negroes came mostly from male white ancestors, relatively fewer X-linked than autosomal Caucasian genes were transmitted to the American Negro gene pool. The genetic model as explicitly formulated indicates the kinds of data which could substantiate or disprove the theory, but which do not now exist.
Statistical distribution of hydrophobic residues along the length of protein chains: implications for protein folding and evolution

We consider in this paper the statistical distribution of hydrophobic residues along the length of protein chains. For this purpose we used a binary hydrophobicity scale which assigns hydrophobic residues a value of one and non-hydrophobes a value of zero. The resulting binary sequences are tested for randomness using the standard run test. For the majority of the 5,247 proteins examined, the distribution of hydrophobic residues along a sequence cannot be distinguished from that expected for a random distribution. This suggests that (a) functional proteins may have originated from random sequences, (b) the folding of proteins into compact structures may be much more permissive with less sequence specificity than previously thought, and (c) the clusters of hydrophobic residues along chains which are revealed by hydrophobicity plots are a natural consequence of a random distribution and can be conveniently described by binomial statistics.
Constant curvature Riemannian scaling

Abstract A multidimensional scaling algorithm is proposed for fitting distances to constant curvature Riemannian spaces. Examples are given and potential applications are discussed. Some general properties of Riemannian spaces are also discussed. It is argued that some restriction, such as that of constant curvature, is necessary to obtain simple unique solutions in Riemannian spaces.
Performance analysis and experimental verification of solenoid actuator

Typical application of solenoid that is discussed in this paper is to operate pneumatic valves under harsh aerospace environmental conditions and high endurance requirements. A thorough analysis of force balance is required to ensure that solenoid will function under all worst operating conditions. A numerical simulation based on finite element (FE) methods is used for evaluating electromagnetic force generated from solenoid at different stroke conditions. FE modeling is done considering practical non-idealities that exist due to manufacturing and assembly process along with worst case solenoid geometry. Low carbon steel material that is used in this solenoid is experimentally characterized for its nonlinear BH properties. This BH curve is fed to the FE Analysis (FEA). 2D static, 2D transient, 3D static FE analysis methods along with different mesh sizes are compared. Experimental verification of the force generated from solenoid is used to validate the methods of finite element analysis.
Chordoma of the mobile spine. A clinicopathologic analysis of 40 patients

Background. Chordomas are lobulated neoplasms composed of physaliphorous cells and their precursors; some have atypical, epithelioid, or spindle cell features. Fewer than one-sixth of chordomas arise in the mobile (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar) spine. Forty-eight percent originate in the sacrococcygeal region and 39% in the sphenoocciput. Methods. The study included 40 patients, 27 men and 13 women (2:1), with chordoma of the mobile spine. Their clinical and histopathologic features are described. Results. Nineteen tumors (48%) were located in the cervical spine, 7 (17%) in the thoracic spine, and 14 (35%) in the lumbar area. Most patients underwent subtotal removal of the tumor and postoperative irradiation. Variations in histologic appearance, including an occasional chondroid background, did not affect biologic behavior. Twenty-three patients (58%) were alive 5 years after surgery. Eventually, 25 patients (63%) died of tumor. Metastasis developed in two patients (5%). In contrast to some other studies, metastasis was a rare occurrence. Conclusion. Chordoma of the mobile spine is a slow-growing, recurring neoplasm of low metastatic potential that incapacitates by locally aggressive growth.
Calculation of phonon dispersion in semiconductor nanostructures: An undergraduate computational project

This paper discusses an undergraduate research project that involves the numerical calculation of phonon dispersion in semiconductor nanostructures. Phonon dispersion is calculated in the elastic continuum approximation by applying a finite-difference method to solving the elastic wave equation with boundary conditions. Students did simulations for two nanostructures: a free-standing GaN thin film and a free-standing AlN∕GaN∕AlN heterostructure. A comparison of these two structures helps students understand the effect of boundary conditions on the nature of the phonon dispersion. The project is related to current research in phonon thermal transport in semiconductor nanostructures and nanodevices.
Compact representations for control dependence

Recently the Program Dependence Graph (PDG) has been shown useful as a basis for solving a variety of problems, including optimization [FOW87], vectorization [BB89], translation to dataflow machines [OBM90], code generation for VLIW machines [GS87a, GS87b], program transformation [Se189, CF89], merging versions of programs [HPR87], and automatic detection and management of parallelism [ABC*87, ABC*88, CFS89]. The edges of the PDG consist of control dependence and data dependence edges. The data dependence edges represent the essential data flow relationships of a program [Kuc?‘~]. In this paper, we examine the control dependence aspect of the PDG, which summarizes essential control flow relationships in a program. Informally, for nodes X and Y in CFG, Y is control dependent on X if during execution, X can directly affect whether Y is executed. We improve the space and time required to compute those aspects of control dependence used by m9st algorithms, We assume ‘a control flow graph CFG is augmented wit,h an entry node (START), an exit node (STOP), and an edge from START to STOP. An example control flow graph is shown in Figure 1 and its control dependence graph is given in Figure 2. Let 1V and E be the number of nodes and edges respectively in CFG. Multiple outgoing edges from a node in CFG are assumed to be distinctly labelled.’ We further assume that for any node X in CFG there exists a path from START to X and a path from X to STOP. To define control dependence formally, we first recall the notion of postdominance [FOW87]. Let X and Y be nodes in CFG. If X # Y appears ou every path from Y to STOP, then X postdominates Y, denoted X >> Y. We write X >> Y if X = Y or X >> Y. The immediate postdominator of Y is the closest postdominator of Y on any path from Y to STOP.
Precipitation and superconductivity in lead-antimony alloys

Superconducting magnetization measurements were made on Sb --Pb alloys to yield useful information on the mode and kinetics of precipitation. For alloys containing 1.3 wt% and 2.45 wt% Sb aged at room temperature or at 95 deg C, the upper critical field was found to decrease continuously with aging. This implies a continuous precipitation process. (P.C.H.)
Temporal Differences in the Role of Marketing Communication in New Product Categories

Abstract The authors investigate the changing role of marketing communication over the life cycle of a new product category. They postulate two effects of marketing communication on consumers' choices: an “indirect effect” through reduction of uncertainty about product quality and a “direct effect” (i.e., more is better). The authors expect that the indirect effect is relatively larger in the early, postlaunch stages. They develop a structural model of demand that allows for such temporal differences in the roles of marketing communication. They use a random coefficients discrete choice model with a Bayesian learning process to model physician learning about new drugs and market-level data for the prescription antihistamines category. They find that marketing communication has a primarily indirect effect 6–14 months after introduction but that the direct effect subsequently dominates. The results suggest that firms should follow a pattern of heavier communication at the introduction phase followed by lowe...
King WISC the third assumes the throne

Abstract The Wechlser Intelligence Scale for Children-Third Edition (WISC-III) is a substantial revision of the WISC-R. Though the same 10 regular subtests compose the battery, a new supplementary measure of processing speed was added (Symbol Search), and a four-factor structure has been proposed to replace the three-factor interpretation that characterizes the WISC-R and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R). Thirty-three percent of the items on the regular Verbal subtests are new, as are 38% of the items on the regular Performance subtests (excluding Coding). The WISC-III now boasts excellent color artwork for the formerly black-and-white Picture Completion and Picture Arrangement items. The normative sample is exemplary, and the entire psychometric approach to test development, validation, and interpretation reflects sophisticated, state-of-the-art knowledge and competence. There are four main limitations of the revised battery: (a) Too much emphasis is given to an examinee's speed of responding; (b) David Wechsler's favorite items, the ones with clinical content such as Fight and Burglar in Picture Arrangement, were eliminated; (c) subtests stability has dropped from WISC-R to WISC-III, threatening profile interpretation; and (d) the school-related and culture-saturated Verbal tasks penalize bilingual, minority, and learning-disabled children referred for evaluation.
A Rating Procedure for Solar Domestic Water Heating Systems

A rating procedure for solar domestic hot water systems is described which combines the advantages of short-term system tests and correlations of long-term thermal performance. The testing procedure consists of two indoor tests which are in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 95-1981, except for one additional measurement needed only for systems employing a heat exchanger between the collector fluid and the potable water. The test results are plotted in a manner in which they can be used to estimate the long-term performance of the solar water heating system for any location where site-specific, monthly-average meterological data are available. The annual solar function obtained in this manner provides the recommended rating indicator. The validity of this rating procedure is first demonstrated by simulations. Further support is provided by experiments conducted at the National Bureau of Standards.
Predictive utility of atrial, N-terminal pro-atrial, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptides for mortality and cardiovascular events in the general community: a 9-year follow-up study.

Abstract OBJECTIVE To determine the predictive value of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), N-terminal pro-ANP (NT-proANP), and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) for mortality and cardiovascular events in the general population in the absence of overt heart failure (HF). PATIENTS AND METHODS We identified a community-based cohort of 2042 individuals. Those with stage C or D HF (n=45) and renal insufficiency (n=6) were excluded from the current study. Of the remaining individuals, 1769 (89%) underwent echocardiography and measurement of plasma ANP, NT-proANP, and NT-proBNP. Participants were followed up from January 1, 1997, to May 1, 2009, for mortality, HF, myocardial infarction (MI), and cerebrovascular accident; median follow-up was 9 years. RESULTS After adjustment for conventional clinical risk factors, NT-proANP had significant predictive value for mortality but not for HF, MI, or cerebrovascular accident, whereas ANP lacked any predictive value. The predictive value of NT-proANP for mortality was attenuated after adjustment for structural and functional cardiac abnormalities. In contrast, NT-proBNP had predictive value for mortality, HF, and MI after adjustment for conventional risk factors and retained significance for mortality and HF after adjustment for structural and functional cardiac abnormalities. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that NT-proBNP is a more robust cardiac biomarker compared with ANP or NT-proANP and is independently predictive of mortality and HF in the general population free of overt HF.
Combination of gonadal steroid treatment and peripheral nerve grafting results in a peripheral motoneuron-like pattern of BII-tubulin mRNA expression in axotomized hamster rubrospinal motoneurons

Rubrospinal motoneurons (RSMN) represent a population of androgen receptor-containing central motoneurons in rodents. In this study, the ability of testosterone propionate (TP), alone or in conjunction with a peripheral nerve graft (PNG), to alter the molecular program of injured RSMN was accomplished using βII-tubulin cDNA probes and quantitative in situ hybridization (ISH). Initial fluoro-gold labeling experiments following a T1 hemisection established that, as in the rat, the hamster rubrospinal system is essentially crossed and that injured RSMN concentrate in the ventrolateral region of the red nucleus. In the second experimental series, adult gonadectomized male hamsters were subjected to a right T1 hemisection, with half of the operated animals immediately subcutaneously implanted with 1 10 mm TP Silastic capsule and the other half sham implanted. In a third experimental series, animals were subjected to T1 hemisection, followed by transplantation of a predegenerated autologous segment of peripheral nerve. Half of the animals in each group received TP implants at the time of spinal cord injury and PNG. Postoperative times were 2, 7, and 14 days (dpo). Quantitative ISH was performed using a βII-tubulin-specific 33P-labeled cDNA probe, emulsion autoradiography, and computerized image analysis for grain counting. Injury alone resulted in a short-lived increase in βII-tubulin mRNA expression in the RSMN at 2 dpo, with a significant decline to well below control values at 7 and 14 dpo. TP treatment or PNG alone attenuated, but did not prevent, the down-regulation of βII-tubulin mRNA. In contrast, the combination of TP with a PNG sustained the injury-induced increase in βII-tubulin mRNA levels throughout the postoperative period of 2, 7, and 14 dpo. The synergistic effects of the two treatment strategies confirm the importance of targeting multiple aspects of the injury response for therapeutic intervention. J. Comp. Neurol. 449:364–373, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Self-Assembling in Nafion Perfluorinated Ionomers Based on ESR Spectra of Novel Fluorinated Nitroxide Spin Probes

ESR spectra of three fluorinated nitroxide radicals with different lengths of the fluorinated side chain were measured in neat solvents and in aqueous Nafion solutions and membranes swollen by water. The probes were prepared by condensation of the 3-carboxy-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-3-pyrrolin-1-yloxyl acid chloride (acid probe, AP) with 1H,1H-perfluoroalkanols, CF3(CF2)nCH2OH, where n = 6, 10, and 16. The corresponding notation for the probes is FP8, FP12, and FP18. The 14N hyperfine splittings (Azz and aN) are sensitive to the local site: Azz in the range 33.3−36.5 G and aN in the range 13.95−16.48 G were measured for solvents ranging from perfluorinated n-hexane to 10 M LiCl/water solution. The line shapes in the probe solutions at and near 300 K are sensitive to the presence of oxygen; exceptionally narrow signals (peak-to-peak width 0.1 G) were detected in carefully deaerated probe solutions, thus allowing the measurement of small hyperfine splittings (typically 0.24 G) from the methyl protons. ESR spectr...
Loss and recovery of sodium-salt taste following bilateral chorda tympani nerve crush.

Abstract The ability of the gustatory system to recover following peripheral nerve injury was investigates in adult hamsters. A conditioned taste aversion paradigm was utilized to test sodium salt-taste function after bilateral crush of the chorda tympani nerve and after nerve regeneration. Bilateral chorda tympani crush abolished expression of a previously learned conditioned taste aversion to 0.1 M NaCl. At 10 to 16 weeks following surgery, the hamsters were reconditioned three times to 0.1 M NaCl. The hamsters were able to relearn the conditioned taste aversion and by 16 weeks, the crush and sham groups showed equally strong and specific aversions to 0.1 M NaCl. A second surgery to cut the regenerated chorda tympani nerves resulted, again, in the loss expression of the conditioned taste aversion. Thus, regenerated chorda tympani nerves are capable of carrying the information needed to form a conditioned taste aversion specific for sodium salts in the adult hamster.
A facility for defining and manipulating generalized data structures

A data structure definition facility (DSDF) is described that provides definitions for several primitive data types, homogeneous and heterogeneous arrays, cells, stacks, queues, trees, and general lists. Each nonprimitive data structure consists of two separate entities—a head and a body. The head contains the entry point(s) to the body of the structure; by treating the head like a cell, the DSDF operations are capable of creating and manipulating very general data structures. A template structure is described that permits data structures to share templates.The primary objectives of the DSDF are: (1) to develop a definition facility that permits the programmer to explicitly define and manipulate generalized data structures in a consistent manner, (2) to detect mistakes and prevent the programmer from creating (either inadvertently or intentionally) undesirable (or illegal) data structures, (3) to provide a syntactic construction mechanism that separates the implementation of a data structure from its use in the program in which it is defined, and (4) to facilitate the development of reliable software.
Behavior modification in schools: ethical issues and suggested guidelines.

Abstract This paper explores the major problems involved in the ethical and adequate use of behavior modification procedures in social settings. Problems are presented in the form of controversial issues which the concerned behavior change agent should be aware of at each step of a behavior change program: selection of the target child, data collection and record keeping, implementation of a behavior change program, personnel qualifications. Suggested guidelines for addressing the problems are provided.
Leadership Style, Stress, and Behavior in Task Performance

Abstract The idea that the perceived stressfulness of a situation moderated the behavior of high and low LPC individuals and thereby helped to explain reported inconsistent findings regarding the behavior of high and low LPC individuals was explored. A conceptual model was presented and three hypotheses derived from the model were tested with two independent samples of highway engineers, which were combined after a least-squares analysis of variance procedure indicated that sample effects did not account for a significant amount of the variance in subjects' responses. The results obtained from the combined samples (N = 40) provided strong support for the hypotheses; namely, that (a) in a nonstressful situation a high LPC individual exhibits more task behavior than a low LPC individual, while a low LPC individual exhibits more interpersonal relations behavior, and (b) in a stressful situation a high LPC individual exhibits more interpersonal relations behavior and a low LPC individual more task behavior. A physiological measure of stress was used.
Analysis of mixtures of the condensed phosphates by ion-exchange chromatography

Abstract A method is presented by means of which each constituent of a mixture of ortho-, pyro-, tri-, trimeta-, and tetrametaphosphate can be separated and determined. Duplicate determinations of all five constituents can be completed in 5 hours. Each constituent was determined with a mean error of 0.2% of the sample. The theory of ion-exchange chromatography is further developed to permit the calculation of the positions of the elution maxima when eluants of different concentrations are used successively.
Metabolic effects of polychlorinated biphenyls in the American kestrel.

POLYCHLORINATED biphenyls (PCB) have been widely found in wildlife samples1,2. PCB are used as plasticizers in plastics, resin and chlorinated rubber3. They have been recommended for improving lindane residues4 and have been shown to increase the insecticidal properties of DDT and dieldrin5. PCB are highly stable, insoluble in water and soluble in lipids; so that they can persist and undergo biological magnification in the environment.
Immunophenotyping of classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma by flow cytometry

Dear Editor, Metzgeroth and coworkers recently published an evaluation of the utility of fine needle aspiration and core biopsy for the diagnosis of lymphadenopathy of unknown etiology [1], including an evaluation of the utility of immunophenotyping these two specimen types by both immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry. With regard to the evaluation of Hodgkin’s lymphoma by these methods, the authors conclude that flow cytometry “seems to be ineligible for the detection of Hodgkin’s lymphoma” [1]. In our experience, while the neoplastic population (the Hodgkin’s Reed–Sternberg cell) of classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma (CHL) cannot be detected by flow cytometry assays designed to detect B and T cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, six[2] and nine-color [3] reagent combinations are available to detect these cells with high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity. These assays can be used to immunophenotype fine-needle aspirates, core-needle biopsies, and excisional biopsies. We have also recently immunophenotyped CHL in aspirated pleural fluid. “Conventional” flow cytometry for T cell processes can also be useful in suggesting a diagnosis of CHL [4, 5]. A reactive expansion of CD4-positive T cells with increased expression of CD45 and CD7 is a characteristic of CHL [6], and this population is only occasionally identified in nonHodgkin’s lymphomas and reactive lymphadenopathies (unpublished data). Therefore, flow cytometry can provide a wealth of diagnostic information regarding the diagnosis of CHL.
The Effect of Daily Prefrontal Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Over Several Weeks on Resting Motor Threshold

Background The resting motor threshold (rMT) is an important factor in the selection of treatment intensity for patients receiving repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). In many clinical studies to date, because of the concerns about potential drift, the rMT has been routinely remeasured weekly or every fifth session. Objective Our aim is to investigate whether ongoing treatment with rTMS affects the rMT, the degree of change, and whether frequent remeasurement is needed. Methods Clinical data were drawn from 50 medication-free patients who were receiving treatment for major depression with rTMS in a large US National Institutes of Health (NIH)-sponsored multisite study. Four measurements of rMT were obtained, including before and after the double-blind phase, followed by weekly measurements during the open phase. Active treatment consisted of 75 four-second trains of 10-Hz stimulation applied over 37.5 minutes with the coil over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) at 120% rMT. Results For the group as a whole, there was no significant change in the rMT during a minimum of 2 weeks of treatment with prefrontal rTMS ( P = .911, 1-way analysis of variance). The average within-subject coefficient of variation was 6.58%. On average, the last rMT was 2.45% less than the baseline rMT (range: 32.3% increase, 40.6% decrease). Conclusions Daily left prefrontal rTMS over several weeks as delivered in this trial does not cause systematic changes in rMT. Although most subjects had less than 10% variance in rMT over time, five subjects had changes of approximately 20% from baseline, raising dosing and safety issues if undetected. We recommend that clinical trials of rTMS have periodic retesting of rMT, especially if the dose is at or near the edge of the TMS safety tables.
Kinetics of DNA replication in bacteria with heterogeneous generation times.

Kinetics of DNA synthesis in bacteria which exhibit dispersion in the generation times of individual cells are calculated for a model in which each cell synthesizes DNA during its entire life-cycle. These kinetics are expressed as the amounts of DNA in each of three categories as a function of time. The categories represent original material, synthesized before a hypothetical transfer to medium in which newly synthesized DNA can be identified; hybrid material, representing the first stage of semiconservative replication, and fully new material, in which neither strand contains original material. The problem is solved by computer simulation of a cell population in exponential growth, with generation times distributed to produce varying amounts of heterogeneity. In addition we calculate the time course of emergence of transforming markers into hybrid and new DNA when a culture with all chromosomes initially aligned at the origin of replication is permitted to replicate in new medium.
Digital image restoration: A survey

The state of the art in large-scale digital computers has recently opened the way for high resolution image processing by digital techniques. With the increasing availability of digital image input/output devices it is becoming quite feasible for the average computing facility to embark upon high-quality image restoration and enhancement. The motivation for such processes becomes self evident when one realizes the tremendous emphasis man puts on his visual senses for survival. Considering the relative success achieved in one-dimensional (usually time) signal processing, it is to be expected that far greater strides could be made in the visual two-dimensional realm of signal processing.
Biological Research on Women's Sexual Orientations: Evaluating the Scientific Evidence

The importance of biological influences on sexual orientation is hotly debated. This article summarizes public opinions about the causes of sexual orientations and documents shifts over time toward greater endorsement of biological rather than environmental explanations. Next, empirical evidence concerning neuroendocrine and genetic explanations of women's sexual orientation is reviewed. Currently, there is no convincing evidence that biological factors are a determining influence on women's sexual orientations. In some research areas, the data on women are incomplete. In areas where adequate research is available, studies on women do not conclusively support biological hypotheses. Implications of these findings are considered.
Evaluation of Adherence to Quality Measures for Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy in the United States: Results from the Quality Research in Radiation Oncology (QRRO) Survey.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this survey was to test the feasibility of using proposed quality indicators to assess radiotherapy quality in prostate cancer management based on a 2007 stratified random survey of treating academic and nonacademic US institutions. Methods and Materials A total of 414 patients with clinically localized prostate cancer treated with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) or brachytherapy were selected from 45 institutions. Indicators used as specific measurable clinical performance measures to represent surrogates for quality of radiotherapy delivery included established measures such as the use of prescription doses ≥ 75 Gy for intermediate- and high-risk EBRT patients and androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) in conjunction with EBRT for patients with high-risk disease, and emerging measures, including daily target localization (image-guidance) to correct for organ motion for EBRT patients. Results Among the 354 patients treated with EBRT, the beam energy was recorded in 353 patients. One hundred sixty-seven patients (47%) were treated with 6 MV photons, 31 (9%) were treated with 10 MV, 65 (18%) received 15 MV, and the remaining 90 (26%) 16-23 MV. For intermediate- plus high-risk patients (n = 181), 78% were treated to ≥75 Gy. Among favorable-risk patients, 72% were treated to ≥75 Gy. Among high-risk EBRT patients, 60 (87%) were treated with ADT in conjunction with EBRT and 13% (n = 9) with radiotherapy alone. Among low- and intermediate-risk patients, 10% and 42%, respectively, were treated with ADT plus EBRT. For 24% of EBRT patients (85 of 354), weekly electronic portal imaging was obtained as verification films without daily target localization, and the remaining 76% were treated with daily localization of the target using various methods. Conclusions Adherence to defined quality indicators was observed in a majority of patients. Approximately 90% of high-risk patients were treated with ADT plus EBRT and ≈80% of intermediate- and high-risk patients received prescription doses ≥75 Gy, consistent with the published results of randomized trials.
Nebulized Interleukin 2 Liposomes: Aerosol Characteristics and Biodistribution

Although interleukin 2 (IL-2) has been associated with modest anti-tumour responses in man, treatment-related toxicity has limited its widespread use. The local delivery of liposomal formulations of interleukin 2 to the lung as aerosols has been demonstrated to be non-toxic, biologically active, and associated with regression of spontaneous pulmonary metastases in dogs. This study was undertaken to evaluate the physical and biological characteristics of nebulized interleukin 2 liposomes. The aerosol droplet size distribution and the physical stability of interleukin 2 liposomes were examined in-vitro using an Andersen cascade impactor and studies of liposome entrapment of interleukin 2 before and after nebulization. The biological stability of interleukin 2 liposomes after nebulization was demonstrated using the CTLL-2 bioassay for interleukin 2. In-vivo studies of pulmonary biodistribution and clearance of inhaled technetium (99mTc)-labelled interleukin 2 liposomes were undertaken in a normal dog. Aerosols of free interleukin 2 and of interleukin 2 liposomes were compared in both in-vitro and in-vivo experiments. The mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) and geometric standard deviation (GSD) of interleukin 2 liposomes were 1.98 microns and 2.02, respectively. Independent analysis of aerosol particle-size distribution using the constitutive components of the interleukin 2 liposomes (interleukin 2: lipid:HSA) demonstrated a close correlation of size distributions (r = 0.9445; P < 0.001). The entrapment of interleukin 2 in liposomes was 93 +/- 4.3% before nebulization and 90 +/- 8.9% after. After delivery to an anaesthetized dog, interleukin 2 liposome aerosols were deposited evenly throughout the lung (mean +/- s.d. central lung-to-peripheral lung deposition was 1.12 +/- 0.03). After approximately 24 h inhalation, interleukin 2 liposomes were retained within the lung and were taken up in part by the spleen. The results of this study are indicative of the stability of this interleukin 2 liposome formulation to nebulization. Such nebulization might be an attractive immunotherapeutic strategy for treatment of pulmonary metastases and primary lung cancers.