cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Some Mechanisms for a Theory of the Reticular Formation

Throughout the life of the vertebrates, the core of the central nervous system, sometimes called the reticular formation, has retained the power to commit the whole animal to one mode of behavior rather than another. Its anatomy, or wiring diagram, is fairly well known, but to date no theory of its circuit action has been proposed that could possibly account for its known performance. Its basic structure is that of a string of similar modules, wide but shallow in computation everywhere, and connected not merely from module to adjacent module, but by long jumpers between distant modules. Analysis of its circuit actions heretofore proposed in terms of finite automata or coupled nonlinear oscillators has failed.
Effect of Liberalized U.S.-Mexico Dry Onion Trade: A Spatial and Intertemporal Equilibrium Analysis

A spatial, intertemporal equilibrium model of the North American dry onion economy is constructed to analyze the impact of liberalized U.S.-Mexico trade. In a free-trade environment, exports of Mexican onions to the U.S. are projected to increase about 509Z0,while Mexico’s share of the U.S. market increases from 8.7 to 12.8%. Farm-level prices in the U.S. are projected to decline 8% while production declines 2.4%. The effect of free trade on U.S. producers is disproportional across regions. Northwest storage onion producers experience the greatest decline in production; however, analysis suggests that improved storage methods may offset a portion of the unfavorable impacts of liberalized trade on these producers. In spite of the unfavorable impact of free trade on U.S. dry onion producers, the industry would not be economically devastated.
Optimum body size of Holstein replacement heifers

Criteria that define optimum body size of replacement heifers are required by commercial dairy producers to evaluate replacement heifer management programs. Historically recommended body size criteria have been based on live BW measurements. Numerous research studies have observed a positive relationship between BW at first calving and first lactation milk yield, which has served as the impetus for using live BW to define body size of replacement heifers. Live BW is, however, not the only available measurement to define body size. Skeletal measurements such as wither height, length, and pelvic area have been demonstrated to be related to first lactation performance and (or) dystocia. Live BW measurements also do not define differences in body composition. Differences in body composition of replacement heifers at first calving are also related to key performance variables. An updated research data base is available for the modern Holstein genotype to incorporate measures of skeletal growth and body composition with BW when defining body size. These research projects also lend insight into the relative importance of measurements that define body size of replacement heifers. Incorporation of these measurements from current research into present BW recommendations should aid commercial dairy producers to better define replacement heifer growth and management practices. This article proposes enhancements in defining optimum body size and growth characteristics of Holstein replacement heifers.
Basic fibroblast growth factor increases division and delays differentiation of dopamine precursors in vitro

Growth factors have been shown to be involved in the regulation of division and differentiation of neuroepithelial cells. In the present study we examined the ability of various factors to influence the development of dopamine precursors. Primary neuronal cultures were prepared from the embryonic day 12 (E12) rat ventral mesencephalon, a time and place which coincides with the beginning of the birth of the dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta. At low plating density in serum-free medium, the dopamine precursors divide for approximately 1 d in vitro. We report here that basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) can expand the period of dopamine precursor division at least until day 8 in culture, which is well beyond the normal division of these cells. This increase in cell division was accompanied by a delay in differentiation as compared to untreated control cultures. Upon differentiation, the high-affinity dopamine uptake values in bFGF- treated cultures were 20 times maximal control values. Mature dopamine neurons appeared at the same time as astrocytes, which may be playing a role in inducing dopamine neuron differentiation. IGF-I, GDNF, and EGF were unable to mimic the effect of bFGF on division and differentiation of dopamine precursors. Expanding in vitro the number of dopamine precursors provides tissue that may be suitable for transplantation in patients with Parkinson9s disease.
Design and analysis of a novel probe-feeding method for stacked microstrip patch antennas

A patch antenna is an excellent choice for wireless, vehicular and other advanced communication applications. We describe a central-feeding scheme which is a useful antenna arrangement to obtain two band responses where space is a constraint, with good isolation between the two bands. Good impedance matching of less than -10 dB was obtained at the two frequencies with no large pattern imbalance. This new method of feeding has a potential advantage for use in communication receivers, in feed arrays for illuminating reflectors, and in communication vehicles for remote sensing applications. With a variation in the feeding method, dual-polarization and array configurations can be incorporated.
Experimental validation of learning accomplishment

This paper reports on educational assessment: measures to validate that a subject has been learned. Outcomes described are from actual UCLA Computer Science courses, but the approach is independent of subject matter. There is a bibliography describing application of the methods presented here to other subjects and school levels. That bibliography summarizes an extensive literature including assessment in distance learning and elementary school situations. The text here outlines ideas and derivations, and the references enable deeper understanding, but a reader can use these procedures without either. The paper describes a way to apply them and to display students' learning. The paper contributes new ways to indicate student achievement and distinguish individuals with subject mastery from others tested. This is by figures shown here that enable teachers and students to understand and apply this form of testing. The measures use probability and are based on concepts of information. The method is generally applicable. It is related to earlier work on a computerized learning system called Plate that handled a wide variety of subjects at many educational levels. This paper describes ways to use an unconventional assessment approach to rapidly determine concepts not yet absorbed. New methods presented here are those the author developed in classes he taught. Ideas and tools in this paper could empower others to expand and enrich their teaching and the learning processes it is to assist.
Cloning of the YenI restriction endonuclease and methyltransferase from Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O8 and construction of a transformable R-M+ mutant.

Abstract Two different clonal groups of pathogenic Yersinia enterocolitica strains, American and non-American, have been recognized. These are distinguished by a number of criteria, including their virulence in a murine model of infection. However, genetic analysis of virulence in American strains has been hampered due to the severe restriction of transformed or electroporated DNA. Thus, we cloned the yenIMR locus from the American serotype strain 8081c, which encodes Yen I, an isoschizomer of Pst I. This clone encodes both the restriction endonuclease and methyltransferase. The location of the genes on the clone was determined and this information was used to construct a small deletion (400 bp) that results in an R − M + phenotype. This mutation was recombined onto the Y. enterocolitica chromosome to give an R − M + mutant which showed at least a 1000-fold increase in electroporation frequency compared to the wild-type strain. Southern analysis using a probe derived from yenIMR indicated that American serotype strains have this locus whereas non-American serotype strains do not.
Transport of Opioid Peptides into the Central Nervous System

Peptide hormones and neurotransmitters play crucial roles in the maintenance of physiological function at both the cellular and organ level. Although peptide neuropharmaceuticals have enormous potential in the treatment of disease states, the blood–brain barrier (BBB) generally prevents the entry of peptides into the brain either by enzyme degradation or by specific properties of the BBB. Peptides that act at opioid receptors are currently being designed for analgesia and to reduce the unwanted side effects associated with morphine, such as addiction and inhibition of gastric motility. It has been the focus of our group to produce stabile peptide analogues of Met-enkephalin, that lead to analgesia without side effects. In this paper we present the methodologies that have been used to elucidate the transport mechanisms of three peptides across the BBB. Using a primary endothelial cell culture model of the BBB, in situ perfusion, and kinetic analysis we show that D-Phe-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Arg-Thr-Pen-Thr-NH2 (CTAP) crosses the BBB via diffusion, [D-penicillamine2,5]-enkephalin uses a combination of diffusion and a saturable transport mechanism, and biphalin ([Tyr-D-Ala-Gly-Phe-NH]2) uses diffusion and the large neutral amino acid carrier. Understanding BBB transport mechanisms for peptides will aid in the rational design of peptides targeted to the brain.
Structural Performance of Reinforced Concrete Flat Plate Buildings Subjected to Fire

The research presented in this paper analytically examines the fire performance of flat plate buildings. The modeling parameters for the mechanical and thermal properties of materials are calibrated from relevant test data to minimize the uncertainties involved in analysis. The calibrated models are then adopted to perform a nonlinear finite element simulation on a flat plate building subjected to fire. The analysis examines the characteristics of slab deflection, in-plane deformation, membrane force, bending moment redistribution, and slab rotational deformation near the supporting columns. The numerical simulation enables the understanding of structural performance of flat plate under elevated temperature and, more importantly, identifies the high risk of punching failure at slab-column connections that may trigger large-scale failure in flat plate structures.
Progress in Novel Cellular Therapy Options for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: The MD Anderson Perspective

Over the past several years there has been considerable progress in the number and breadth of therapeutic options for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. In particular, cumulative experience with stem cell transplant and immunotherapy has made these modalities more available to a broader range of patients. Advances in genetic engineering and ex vivo expansion techniques have sculpted cellular therapy products to optimize the combination of specificity and toxicity. This brief review discusses recent cutting-edge experience with chimeric antigen receptor T cells as well as developing cellular therapy products at the authors' institution.
Electrolyte content of the rabbit corneal stroma.

An evaluation was made of the analytical methods for the determination of sodium, potassium and chloride from single extracts of the cornea. An extraction procedure with dilute nitric acid was found to give the reproducible data for this purpose. Using this technique, the concentrations of sodium, potassium and chloride were determined from single extracts either of whole cornea or of stroma alone. These analyses show that the sodium concentration (meq/kg water) in the corneal stroma of the rabbit is more than 14% higher than in the aqueous, and the chloride concentration (meq/kg water) is almost equal to that of the aqueous. The reasons for the higher sodium concentrations in the stroma compared to the aqueous are discussed, and it is postulated that some of the cations in the stroma are bound to the acid mucopolysaccharides of the stroma.
Intramolecular dynamics of energy flow between van der Waals bonds in a collisionally excited Ar…N≡N…Ar

Abstract A classical trajectory study of energy flow in a collisionally excited van der Waals complex is presented. In the collision of an incident atom with a symmetric complex Ar…N≡N…Ar, the high frequency chemical bond blocks the flow of energy initially deposited in the terminal van der Waals bond through collisional excitation. The factors affecting energy flow patterns, such as the collision energy, dissociation of van der Waals bonds, and initial phase of the molecular unit are examined.
Tectonic signatures in centimeter‐scale velocity‐porosity relationships of Costa Rica convergent margin sediments

[1] The Costa Rica convergent margin, investigated during Ocean Drilling Program Leg 170, offers a unique opportunity to compare the tectonic effects of rapid subduction on incoming oceanic sediments to their laterally equivalent underthrust counterparts and to terrestrially derived wedge materials. Elevated pressure laboratory measurements of ultrasonic compressional and shear wave velocity, and porosity, are used to examine the importance of tectonic, lithologic, and diagenetic controls on physical and elastic properties of sediments in these three key tectonic domains. Depositional and stress path histories of the three domains, for example, can be distinguished by (1) trends of in situ velocity-porosity (and derived measurements) correspondence and (2) the mechanical response of representative materials to isotropic consolidation. A compressional wave velocity-porosity model, critical for the application of seismic imaging to margin-wide physical property and mass balance estimates, is developed from the laboratory measurements and shown to be consistent with the information derived from LWD bulk density and migrated seismic reflection data. This consistency of the velocity-porosity model over the large range of both frequency and length measurement scales is a key result, supporting the assertion that core and borehole physical property measurements can be extrapolated to larger domains. Finally, dewatering and overpressure effects, critical factors in subduction zone and fault process dynamics and increasingly common multiphase/converted wave imaging targets, are discussed in terms of laboratory-estimated in situ compressional and shear wave velocity relationships.
Factors Underlying Behavioral Choice: Testing a New Reasons Theory Approach1

Many applied studies ask people to rate reasons why they perform a behavior. The assumption is that strongly endorsed reasons are motives underlying behavior. However, this assumption rarely is examined empirically. Moreover, the self-reported reasons literature has lacked theoretical attention. In this study, we presented a formal model of self-reported reasons, entitled reasons theory (RT). RT formally conditions reason type (i.e., reasons for and reasons against) on behavioral frequency/intention. RT was compared to a standard reasons approach that does not present formal reason postulates. Results showed that RT explained variance in behavior over and above that explained by standard reasons, and that correlational coefficients from RT better matched mean reason results than did standard reasons. RT results were also more substantively interpretable than were standard reasons. Lastly, several boundary conditions were discussed, including the relationship between reasons and emotions.
Paneth cells in a mucinous cystadenoma of the ovary: light and electron microscopic study.

Abstract The light and electron microscopic features of an ovarian mucinous cystadenoma with prominent Paneth cells are described.
Assessing the effects of U.S. shocks on the Canadian economy using alternative identification methods

Abstract This paper investigates the extent of the transmission of U.S. supply and demand shocks to the Canadian economy using three different identification methods. Our findings are robust across identifications. We show that over the flexible exchange rate period, U.S. shocks tend to intensify Canadian business cycles, while they reduce the mean of Canadian prices and inflation. We also find that overall Canadian output is less sensitive to U.S. disturbances than found in earlier studies. Moreover, when the structural shocks are allowed to be correlated across countries, Canadian shocks explain around 18% of U.S. real GDP growth long run forecast error variance.
Design of a Heterobivalent Ligand to Inhibit IgE Clustering on Mast Cells

We describe the design, synthesis, and characterization of a heterobivalent ligand (HBL) system that competitively inhibits allergen binding to mast cell bound IgE antibody, thereby inhibiting mast cell degranulation. HBLs are composed of a hapten conjugated to a nucleotide analog allowing simultaneous targeting of the antigen-binding site as well the "unconventional nucleotide binding site" on IgE Fab domains. Simultaneous bivalent binding to both sites provides HBLs with over 100-fold enhancement both in avidity for IgE(DNP) (K(d) = 0.33 μM) and in inhibition of allergen binding to IgE(DNP) (IC(50) = 0.45 μM) than the monovalent hapten (K(d)(mono) = 41 μM; IC(50)(mono) = 55.4 μM, respectively). In cellular assays, HBL2 effectively inhibits mast cell degranulation (IC(50) = 15 μM), whereas no inhibition is detected by the monovalent hapten. In conclusion, this study establishes the use of multivalency in a novel HBL design to inhibit mast cell degranulation.
Targeted Therapies for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: An Overview of Toxicity and Dosing Strategies

The targeted therapies sunitinib, sorafenib, temsirolimus, and bevacizumab (when used in combination with interferon-alpha2a) have dramatically improved outcomes for patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Clinical application of these novel agents outside the trial setting, however, may present some challenges for treating individual patients with unique needs. In some patients, dose modifications may be considered for potential drug interactions and for management of severe cases of hematologic or nonhematologic toxicities. The more common grade 3 or 4 side effects with sunitinib and sorafenib include hypertension, fatigue, hand-foot syndrome, elevated lipase, lymphopenia, and neutropenia. Congestive heart failure is a less common but serious side effect that warrants treatment discontinuation. Temsirolimus exhibits a different side-effect profile, with the more common grade 3 or 4 side effects being metabolic in nature (i.e., elevated triglycerides, elevated glucose, hypophosphatemia) as a result of its inhibitory effects on the mammalian target of rapamycin-regulated lipid and glucose pathways. Asthenia, rash, and dyspnea also occur in patients receiving temsirolimus. Virtually all of the side effects associated with these agents can be managed effectively in the majority of patients with medical treatment or supportive interventions. Recognition and prompt management of side effects are important to avoid unnecessary dose reductions that may result in suboptimal efficacy.
Photodissociation of (DMSO)2Fe(II)PPIX to form a transient five-coordinate complex as studied using transient resonance Raman spectroscopy

Resonance Raman spectra of iron(II) protoporphyrin IX [Fe(II)PP] in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and deuterated DMSO were obtained at high and low photon densities using 10 ns laser pulses. At low photon density, comparison of the Raman spectra of the complex with those of carbonmonoxy-hemoglobin indicates that a low-spin, six-coordinate (DMSO) 2 Fe(II)PP complex exists; at high photon density, spectral comparisons with deoxyhemoglobin and the 2-methylimidazole heme complex (2-MeIm)Fe(II)PP indicate that a transient high-spin, five-coordinate complex is formed by photodissociation of a DMSO ligand. This phenomenon is reversible and observable on a 10 ns time-scale
Mössbauer effect study of the 105.3 keV transition in 155Gd

Mossbauer effect studies on the 105.3 keV transition of 155Gd using the single line source and absorber combination of SmPd3 and GdCo2 have shown that the previously reported narrowing in the linewidth is due to the formation of antipeaks on the spectrum. These antipeaks occur on the 105.3 keV spectrum at positions which correspond to maximum resonant absorption of the 86.5 keV radiation in 155Gd. They are observed at a very low amplifier output count rate of 6 kHz which corresponds to a multichannel analyzer recording rate of 200 counts per channel per minute for the 105.3 keV spectrum. The antipeaks were not present on the 105.3 keV spectrum after attenuating the 86.5 keV radiation with a thallium acetate filter. The resultant linewidth of the 105.3 keV transition, after correcting for finite source and absorber thickness, was found to be Γ0=1.129 mms−1 in comparison with the theoretical value of 1.112 mms−1 calculated from the lifetime of the 105.3 keV energy level.
Reduced Cold Pain Tolerance in Chronic Pain Patients Following Opioid Detoxification

Objective One potential consequence of chronic opioid analgesic administration is a paradoxical increase of pain sensitivity over time. Little scientific attention has been given to how cessation of opioid medication affects the hyperalgesic state. In this study, we examined the effects of opioid tapering on pain sensitivity in chronic pain patients.
Repositioning family planning through community based distribution agents in Malawi

Similar to most countries in southern Africa Malawi is experiencing an unprecedented HIV/AIDS with a high infection rate among the childbearing age group. It has been trying to revitalize family planning through repositioning most notably with the implementation of The Population and Family Planning Project. This community-based project was designed to test the feasibility of implementing a comprehensive district-wide community based distribution approach (CBD) to delivery of family planning services. The baseline and evaluation surveys collected information on contraceptive prevalence rate knowledge and source of contraceptive methods approval of family planning preferences about child bearing and knowledge of HIV/AIDS prevention. The study showed that a CBD approach to delivery of family planning services can lead to increase approval and knowledge of family planning and increased condom use. It is recommended that in the absence of adequate facilities to provide family planning services CBDAs should be used to provide these services district wide and should perform a cost-benefit analysis.
Eugenics, the Genome, and Human Rights

This article assesses the potential impact of current genomics research on human rights against the backdrop of the eugenics movement in the English-speaking world during first third of the twentieth century, The echo of eugenic interventions in societies far beyond Nazi Germany reverberates in the ethical debates triggered by the potential inherent in recent molecular biological developments. Mandatory eugenic restrictions of reproductive freedom seem less likely in countries committed to civil liberties than under authoritarian governments. More likely, consumer choice might sustain a trend towards voluntary “improvement” of biological inheritance in the future. However, the increasing availability of genetic information and the patenting of human genes may lead, respectively, to a loss of reproductive autonomy and a reduction in equitable access to medical care; hence new regulations and/or legislation may be required to ensure appropriate control over genetic information and use of intellectual property rights in human genes.
Symmetrical Heating and Cooling of a Moving Microfluidic Sample

Research on microanalytical systems is shifting away from academia and into the corporate arena. For business reasons, the nature of today’s research is increasingly applied and focused on cost and reliability in particular applications. In general, the advantages of the lab-on-a-chip test (as compared to a full scale benchtop test) typically include lower power consumption, lower reagent consumption and lower operational costs. In most cases, the lab-on-a-chip test is also faster and, potentially, more accurate, in part because smaller sample volume implies a much larger surface to volume ratio.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Functional consequences of preorganized helical structure in the intrinsically disordered cell-cycle inhibitor p27(Kip1).

p27Kip1 contributes to cell-cycle regulation by inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinase (Cdk) activity. The p27 Cdk-inhibition domain has an ordered conformation comprising an α-helix, a 310 helix, and β-structure when bound to cyclin A-Cdk2. In contrast, the unbound p27 Cdk-inhibition domain is intrinsically disordered (natively unfolded) as shown by circular dichroism spectroscopy, lack of chemical-shift dispersion, and negative heteronuclear nuclear Overhauser effects. The intrinsic disorder is not due to the excision of the Cdk-inhibition domain from p27, since circular dichroism spectra of the full-length protein are also indicative of a largely unfolded protein. Both the inhibition domain and full-length p27 are active as cyclin A-Cdk2 inhibitors. Using circular dichroism and proline mutagenesis, we demonstrate that the unbound p27 Cdk-inhibition domain is not completely unfolded. The domain contains marginally stable helical structure that presages the α-helix, but not the 310 helix, adopted upon bindin...
Using a modified CINDER90 routine in MCNPX 2.6.0 for the prediction of helium production in minor actinide targets

Fast reactors containing heterogeneous minor actinide (MA) target rods are now being modeled. When studying transmutation in these rods, helium production from α-decay must be considered since it is produced in substantial quantities. This research utilized an innovative method to calculate gas production by modifying the CINDER90 depletion code used by MCNPX 2.6.0 to include helium production from α-decay. The modified CINDER90 code was verified using the ORIGEN-ARP module of SCALE6. It was tested using the Sodium-Cooled Heterogeneous Innovative Burner Reactor model created at the University of South Carolina. It is recommended that the modified version of the cinder.dat file be distributed in subsequent MCNPX 2.6.0 releases for use in fast reactor calculations using heterogeneous MA target rods since it includes helium production otherwise not available from the current version.
Integrated risk sensitivity study for Lunar Surface Systems

This paper illustrates an innovative approach to assessing the reliability of conceptual Lunar Surface Systems architectures using an integrated analysis model. The integrated model represents systems, dependencies, and interactions to develop risk-based reliability requirements that balance functional characteristics, needs, demands, and constraints to achieve availability goals. The model utilizes “availability” metrics based on first-order descriptions of the architecture to begin providing reliability impacts even before much design detail exists. Sensitivity analyses are performed to identify key risk parameters and find “knees” in the curve for establishment of system architecture- and element-level requirements.
Human genome-wide RNAi screen reveals a role for nuclear pore proteins in poxvirus morphogenesis

Poxviruses are considered less dependent on host functions than other DNA viruses because of their cytoplasmic site of replication and large genomes, which encode enzymes for DNA and mRNA synthesis. Nevertheless, RNAi screens with two independent human genome-scale libraries have identified more than 500 candidate genes that significantly inhibited and a similar number that enhanced replication and spread of infectious vaccinia virus (VACV). Translational, ubiquitin-proteosome, and endoplasmic reticulum-to-Golgi transport functions, known to be important for VACV, were enriched in the siRNA-inhibiting group, and RNA polymerase II and associated functions were enriched in the siRNA-enhancing group. Additional findings, notably the inhibition of VACV spread by siRNAs to several nuclear pore genes, were unanticipated. Knockdown of nucleoporin 62 strongly inhibited viral morphogenesis, with only a modest effect on viral gene expression, recapitulating and providing insight into previous studies with enucleated cells.
Effects of Modern Primary Flight Display Clutter Evidence from Performance and Eye Tracking Data

Many complex domains, including aviation, experience a continued increase in the amount of information that is needed and available to operators. One example of this trend is modern primary flight ...
Glioblastoma exosomes and IGF-1R/AS-ODN are immunogenic stimuli in a translational research immunotherapy paradigm

Glioblastomas are primary intracranial tumors for which there is no cure. Patients receiving standard of care, chemotherapy and irradiation, survive approximately 15 months prompting studies of alternative therapies including vaccination. In a pilot study, a vaccine consisting of Lucite diffusion chambers containing irradiated autologous tumor cells pre-treated with an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS-ODN) directed against the insulin-like growth factor type 1 receptor was found to elicit positive clinical responses in 8/12 patients when implanted in the rectus sheath for 24 h. Our preliminary observations supported an immune response, and we have since reopened a second Phase 1 trial to assess this possibility among other exploratory objectives. The current study makes use of a murine glioma model and samples from glioblastoma patients in this second Phase 1 trial to investigate this novel therapeutic intervention more thoroughly. Implantation of the chamber-based vaccine protected mice from tumor challenge, and we posit this occurred through the release of immunostimulatory AS-ODN and antigen-bearing exosomes. Exosomes secreted by glioblastoma cultures are immunogenic, eliciting and binding antibodies present in the sera of immunized mice. Similarly, exosomes released by human glioblastoma cells bear antigens recognized by the sera of 6/12 patients with recurrent glioblastomas. These results suggest that the release of AS-ODN together with selective release of exosomes from glioblastoma cells implanted in chambers may drive the therapeutic effect seen in the pilot vaccine trial.
The effect of surface state on the kinetics of cerium-hydride formation

Abstract We studied the effects of surface oxidation on the kinetics of hydrogen (H) absorption into two commercial samples of Ce: bulk samples and thin rolled foils. A Sieverts’ apparatus was used to measure the H absorption kinetics and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to determine the surface oxidation state and the presence of impurities, notably carbon (C). In the as-received condition, the bulk Ce specimen was covered by a Ce 2 O 3 film (sesquioxide) whereas the as-received foil was covered with a CeO 2 film (dioxide). In this condition, the H absorption rate at room temperature was approximately an order of magnitude faster in the bulk sample than in the foil. Vacuum annealing at P ≤ 1 × 10 −4 Torr and T = 773 K significantly increased the rate of H uptake, making it similar in both samples. This annealing reduced the Ce 2 O 3 in the bulk samples so that the samples became more metallic, but produced little change in the XPS signal from the CeO 2 film on the foil sample. The study suggests that the differences in H uptake kinetics are affected not only by the nature of the oxide (sesquioxide versus dioxide) but also by the integrity of the surface oxide film, which may be affected by the thermal treatment.
The use of anaerobic metabolism by frogs in a breeding chorus

Abstract 1. 1. Male spring peepers ( Hyla crucifer ) were captured as they vocalized in a breeding chorus and immediately frozen in liquid nitrogen. 2. 2. These frogs had whole-body lactic acid concentrations nearly twice those of control frogs resting in the laboratory at the same temperature and time of day. 3. 3. We suggest that the energetic cost of vocalization for spring peepers exceeds their anaerobic threshold, and activity of the muscles involved in calling is supported partly by anaerobic metabolism.
Changes in serum trace element levels following local irradiation of a solid tumor.

The changes in concentrations of a number of trace elements have been determined by neutron activation analysis in tumor, liver, and blood serum of host animals, following local irradiation of a solid tumor (3924A Morris hepatoma). These trace element changes are compared to the changes observed in a parallel study of the effects of the chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorouracil on the same tumor. Since the changes in some of the trace elements parallel the changes in pathological and biochemical factors resulting from the insult of radiation on the tumor, these trace elements may be valuable markers in the clinical evaluation of therapeutic response and as monitors of the long term effects of cancer therapy.
Parental care and litter development in primiparous and multiparous prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster)

Parity effects on parental behavior and litter development were studied by comparing primiparous and multiparous parents in prairie voles ( Microtus ochrogaster ). Multiparous mothers spent less time engaged in activities outside the nest and spent more time in parental care. This increased parental investment resulted in young that developed more rapidly, had a higher survival rate, and were larger at weaning than primiparous young. Parity had no effect on the behavior of fathers. Previous rearing experience as well as sex-dependent neuroendocrine-hormonal changes associated with parity may be responsible for increased parental care in mothers.
The value of postoperative parathyroid hormone levels in predicting the need for long-term vitamin D supplementation after total thyroidectomy.

Few studies have examined the need for vitamin D supplementation after total thyroidectomy. This study examines the role of postoperative day (POD) 1 serum calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in predicting the need for long-term vitamin D supplementation after total thyroidectomy. A retrospective, single institutional study of patients who underwent total thyroidectomy between January 2007 and December 2008 was performed. Data collected included extent of surgery, final pathology, postoperative calcium (mg/dl) and PTH (pg/ml) values, and duration of vitamin D supplementation. Patients were divided into 4 groups based on POD1 PTH values: group 1 ( 20). Of the 104 patients, 26 were in group 1, 12 in group 2, 18 in group 3, and 48 in group 4, with median PTH values of 1 month were in group 1. The positive predictive value of POD1 PTH 1 month was 27% (sensitivity 100%, specificity 80%). Seventy-eight patients had a POD1 PTH level ≥5, and none required vitamin D supplementation >1 month (100% negative predictive value). The positive predictive value of various POD1 calcium thresholds (<7.5, <8.0, and <8.5 mg/dl) was 17, 14, and 15%, respectively. Postoperative PTH levels better predict long-term hypocalcemia requiring vitamin D supplementation than serum calcium levels. A PTH level ≥5.0 may identify patients who can be safely discharged without routine vitamin D supplementation.
Muscarinic regulation of cardiac ion channels.

The parasympathetic component of the autonomic nervous system plays an important role in the physiological regulation of cardiac function by exerting significant influence over the initiation as well as propagation of electrical impulses, in addition to being able to regulate contractile force. These effects are mediated in whole or in part through changes in ion channel activity that occur in response to activation of M2 muscarinic cholinergic receptors following release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. The coupling of M2 receptor activation to most changes in cardiac ion channel function can be explained by one of two general paradigms. The first involves direct G protein-dependent regulation of ion channel activity. The second involves indirect regulation of ion channel activity through modulation of cAMP-dependent responses. This review focuses on recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms by which M2 muscarinic receptor activation both inhibits and facilitates cAMP-dependent ion channel responses in the heart.
Sexual Reproduction in Mesotaenium kramstai

Heterothallic strains of Mesotaenium kramstai Lemmermann were isolated from a culture originating from an air-borne contaminant. The morphology and sexual process in this species are given in detail.
Are Two Theories Better Than One? A Constructivist Model of the Neorealist–Neoliberal Debate:

This article constructs a test of the logical consistency of neorealism and neoliberalism by applying McPhee's (1963) survival model to international relations theory. McPhee's model demonstrates how some cultural artifacts survive over time, while others are forgotten or eliminated from the cultural canon. Employing Wendt's notion of roles as cultural artifacts in conjunction with McPhee's model allows us to clarify the logical assumptions and implications of neorealism and neoliberalism. I argue that neorealism is best characterized by the logic of a single screening system and neoliberalism by a repetitive screening system. The logical test that follows demonstrates that both theories are internally consistent with respect to the cultures of anarchy they predict. However, the logic of the repetitive screening model demonstrates that neoliberalism is theoretically more capable of dealing with the complexity of interstate relations. I suggest that the distinction between neorealism and neoliberalism is based upon a flawed understanding of the operation of process and structure within the international system. This misunderstanding, when clarified by the survival model and constructivist theory, indicates that the two competing theories are actually variants of a single, underlying model.
Freedom of movement among blue collar workers

Freedom of Movement (FM) is seen in this study as the discrepancy between aspiration and personal achievement. Five hundred and sixtythree blue collar workers responded to a mail questionnaire specifically designed to assess FM. Sex, race, and income related monotonically to FM, with Blacks, women, and low income workers showing low FM. Age also related significantly to FM, but in a curvilinear fashion, with mid-age workers having the lowest FM. Implications of low FM (and anomie) are discussed in relation to homelessness, apathy, and other forms of social distress.
The Lazarus Project: a longitudinal study of spiritual transformation among substance abusers

This is a longitudinal study of spiritual transformation at the Lazarus Project (LP), a 12-month Pentecostal-Charismatic residency program for substance abuse. In 2006, we began administering to residents an assessment protocol consisting of psychological (depression, self-esteem, psychopathology, Big 5 personality markers) and religiosity (fundamentalism, religious orientation, spiritual well-being, mysticism) measures. Assessments were at: (T1) induction; (T2) six months; (T3) graduation; and (T4) one-year post-graduation. We also assessed a membership group from the sponsoring church using the same protocol. Analyses found that general change in graduate scores occurred from T1 to T2 and persisted to T3 and T4. Comparative analyses found that LP graduate score patterns generally agreed with those of LP dropouts at T1, but diverged at T2, becoming more similar to score patterns of church members. Using all measures, a regression analysis found that the personality marker of (less) openness was the most ...
Focal epithelial hyperplasia: An unusual oral mucosal lesion found in Indian children

Abstract An unusual focal hyperplasia involving the oral epithelium has been described. The lesion developed in nineteen Indians, of whom fifteen were Navajo Indian children from the Gallup, New Mexico, area. Similar clinical lesions are described in other ethnic groups in the American Indian population. The chief morphologic change noted is an acanthosis of discrete segments of oral epithelium and a ductal hyperplasia with secondary retention phenomena involving the minor salivary glands underlying areas of epithelial change. No recognizable etiologic factor or factors have been identified, although a communicable agent is being considered. The possibility of a genetic basis for the lesion has been suggested.
Effect of a hypertonic lactated Ringer's solution on intracranial pressure and cerebral water content in a model of traumatic brain injury.

There has recently been an increased interest in the use of hypertonic solutions for fluid resuscitation of trauma victims. In this study, we examined the acute cerebral effects of a hypertonic lactated Ringer's solution (measured osmolality = 469 mOsm/kg) in an animal model of traumatic brain injur
Potato tuber hydration and its effect on blackspot of Russet Burbank potatoes in the Columbia Basin of Washington

Observations of tuber weight changes under growing conditions in the field indicate wide variability in weight change patterns. When roots are pruned, marked weight reductions occur and when the plant tops are excised, tuber weight is increased, even on a plant with a greatly reduced root system. Water content of tubers, as indicated by specific gravity changes, appears to be increased with increasing potassium fertilizer. In the same lot of tubers those stored under laboratory temperature and humidity for three weeks lost water, gained in specific gravity, and increased in blackspot susceptibility.
Development of a microfluidic drug delivery neural prosthesis using a wide bandgap semiconductor waveguide structure

We have developed a microfluidic retinal prosthesis, using wide bandgap optical wavelength semiconductor thin film waveguides, to facilitate spatial and quantitative photactivation of “caged” neurotransmitter to microfluidic channels. Novel waveguide materials and micromachining technology are necessary to fabricate 360 nanometer capable waveguides for the microfluidic device. Single crystal wide bandgap semiconductor thin films are grown on sapphire by plasma source molecular beam epitaxy (PSMBE). 248 nanometer KrF Excimer laser micromachining technology is employed to micro-fabricate wave-guiding channels and microfluidic structures. A waveguide that allows for spatial and temporal drug delivery within the retina was fabricated. In addition, there is a need for a waveguide structure that may be used in physiological drug delivery systems. A device that may deliver ultraviolet light in precise intensities and to selective areas of a microfluidic implant without direct ultraviolet exposure to the biological cells is needed in retinal and cortical implants. Results of a prototype microfluidic waveguide system will be presented.
Can Suppressor Variables Enhance Criterion-Related Validity in the Personality Domain?

The practical value to organizations and to society of even small increments to validity from suppressor effects may be substantial. This study empirically examined the potential importance of suppressor variables in the personality domain. Of the five suppressor variables tentatively identified in the initial validation sample, four were found to hold up in an independent cross-validation sample. The suppressor variables increased the cross-validated multiple r from .61 to .68 (an 11% increase). The authors argue that, in addition to potential increments to prediction, suppressor variables in the personality domain may also contribute to substantive knowledge and theory development. The authors recommend that examination of potential suppressors be a more frequent component of research and analysis in the personality domain.
Structure of physiologically classified neurones in the kitten dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus

The mammalian forebrain, including the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGNd)and the visual cortex, continues both structural and functional development postnatally and is therefore a useful model for the study of developmental processes in the central nervous system (CNS). We report here the first description and comparison of the structural development of individual, functionally identified neurones in the mammalian forebrain. This comparison is made for the three main cell groups of the central visual pathways (W-, X- and Y-cells), in the neonate and the adult. In the adult, these three classes of neurones have different characteristic electrophysiological properties1–9 and relay information in parallel about different features of a visual scene8,9 from the retina through the LGNd to the visual cortex. In addition, each of the three functional cell types has a characteristic structure in the adult10,11. By injection of the enzyme marker substance, horseradish peroxi-dase, into electrophysiologically identified neurones, the present study demonstrates that each of these functional classes of neurones also has a characteristic morphology in the neonate (in the LGNd of kitten 3–4 postnatal weeks of age). However, striking differences in the rates of maturation are seen. The W-cells are already mature at this age. The X-cells are the least developed. Surprisingly, some Y-cells are mature. Due to the susceptibility of Y-cells to an abnormal visual environment during development12–18, they had previously been thought to be slower to mature.
Plantar granulomatous cutaneous T-cell lymphoma ☆ ☆☆ ★

Abstract We describe a distinctive case of granulomatous cutaneous T-cell lymphoma presenting as an eczematous eruption with livedoid ulcerations involving the soles and dorsa of the feet as the first and only manifestation. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1997;37:326-8.)
Radiographic results of femoral tunnel drilling through the anteromedial portal in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Purpose The goal of this study was to determine the femoral tunnel position by use of the head of a metallic femoral interference screw as a reference marker. In addition, we present postoperative films from an anatomically placed single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament with femoral interference screw fixation using the anteromedial portal drilling technique. Methods Two surgeons evaluated 43 random postoperative radiographs in patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction by a single surgeon. Four measurements were taken on lateral knee radiographs with superimposed condyles for each patient. These included the total sagittal diameter of the lateral condyle measured along the Blumensaat line (A1), the maximum intercondylar height from the Blumensaat line to the condyle edge along the center of the screw head (B1), the distance from the center of the screw head to the most dorsal contour of the lateral condyle (A2), and the distance from the center of the screw head to the Blumensaat line (B2). The latter 2 values were then expressed as percentages of the lengths A1 and B1. From the anteroposterior (AP) films, the angle between the axis of the screw and anatomic axis of the femur was determined. Results The center of the screw head was 31.3% of the Blumensaat line and 24.8% of the condylar height. The axis of the screw was found to be 43° from the anatomic axis of the femur on the AP radiographs. Conclusions The mean center of the screw head was 31.3% of the Blumensaat line and 24.8% of the condylar height. The mean axis of the screw was found to be 43° from the anatomic axis of the femur on the AP radiographs. Furthermore, we have described the appearance of a lateral radiograph with this technique. Level of Evidence Level III, diagnostic study.