cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Metabolism of adipose tissue: incorporation of isoleucine carbon into lipids by slices of adipose tissue

Slices from adipose tissue and liver were incubated with uniformly labeled C14-isoleucine and the respiratory carbon dioxide, fatty acids, and nonsaponifiable lipids were isolated and analyzed for radioactivity. Organic acids were qualitatively identified by chromatography and autoradiography. Adipose tissue oxidized isoleucine to carbon dioxide at a rate greater than that of liver. Conversion to nonsaponifiable lipids was small for both tissues. Recovery of C14 from isoleucine C14 in fatty acids of adipose tissue was 50 to 100 times greater than recovery in liver slices. C14 was recovered in acetate, propionate, methylmalonate, and α-methylacetoacetate in adipose tissue after incubation with isoleucine. The role of acetate, propionate, methylmalonate, α-methylacetoacetate, and isoleucine in biosynthesis of fatty acids in adipose tissue is discussed.
Drosophila melanogaster, two years into the post-genomic era.

A report on the 43rd Drosophila Research Conference held in San Diego, USA, 10-14 April 2002.
The social mysteries of the superior temporal sulcus

The superior temporal sulcus (STS) is implicated in a variety of social processes, ranging from language perception to simulating the mental processes of others (theory of mind). In a new study, Deen and colleagues use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to show a regular anterior–posterior organization in the STS for different social tasks.
Suppression of Hydride Precipitates in Niobium Superconducting Radio-Frequency Cavities

Niobium hydride is a suspected contributor to degraded niobium superconducting radio-frequency (SRF) cavity performance by Q slope and Q disease. The concentration and distribution of hydrogen atoms in niobium can be strongly affected by the cavity processing treatments. This study provides guidance for cavity processing based on density functional theory calculations of the properties of common processing impurity species—hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon—in the body-centered cubic (bcc) niobium lattice. We demonstrate that some fundamental properties are shared between the impurity atoms, such as anionic character in niobium. The strain field produced, however, by hydrogen atoms is both geometrically different and substantially weaker than the strain field produced by the other impurities. We focus on the interaction between oxygen and hydrogen atoms in the lattice, and demonstrate that the elastic interactions between these species and the bcc niobium lattice cause trapping of hydrogen and oxygen atoms by bcc niobium lattice vacancies. We also show that the attraction of oxygen to a lattice vacancy is substantially stronger than the attraction of hydrogen to the vacancy. Additionally, hydrogen dissolved in niobium tetrahedral interstitial sites can be trapped by oxygen, nitrogen and possibly carbon atoms dissolved in octahedral interstitial sites. These results indicate that the concentration of oxygen in the bcc lattice can have a strong impact on the ability of hydrogen to form detrimental phases. Based on our results and a literature survey, we propose a mechanism for the success of the low-temperature annealing step applied to niobium SRF cavities. We also recommend further examination of nitrogen and carbon in bcc niobium, and particularly the role that nitrogen can play in preventing detrimental hydride phase formation.
Mechanistic insights into nicotine withdrawal

Smoking is responsible for over 400,000 premature deaths in the United States every year, making it the leading cause of preventable death. In addition, smoking-related illness leads to billions of dollars in healthcare expenditures and lost productivity annually. The public is increasingly aware that successfully abstaining from smoking at any age can add years to one's life and reduce many of the harmful effects of smoking. Although the majority of smokers desire to quit, only a small fraction of attempts to quit are actually successful. The symptoms associated with nicotine withdrawal are a primary deterrent to cessation and they need to be quelled to avoid early relapse. This review will focus on the neuroadaptations caused by chronic nicotine exposure and discuss how those changes lead to a withdrawal syndrome upon smoking cessation. Besides examining how nicotine usurps the endogenous reward system, we will discuss how the habenula is part of a circuit that plays a critical role in the aversive effects of high nicotine doses and nicotine withdrawal. We will also provide an updated summary of the role of various nicotinic receptor subtypes in the mechanisms of withdrawal. This growing knowledge provides mechanistic insights into current and future smoking cessation therapies.
Orthogonal Approaches to the Simultaneous and Cascade Functionalization of Macromolecules Using Click Chemistry

The development of selective chemistries that are orthogonal to the diverse array of functional groups present in many polymeric systems is becoming an important tool for the synthesis and use of macromolecules in fields ranging from biomedical devices to nanotechnology. By combining copper-catalyzed cycloaddition chemistry with other synthetic transformations such as esterification, amidation, etc., highly efficient and modular simultaneous and cascade functionalization strategies have been developed. These single-step strategies for preparing multifunctional macromolecules represent a significant advance as compared to traditional multistep approaches, and the utility of these concepts is demonstrated by selective preparation of a diverse range of orthogonally functionalized vinyl polymers.
Variable telomeric repeat synthesis in Paramecium tetraurelia is consistent with misincorporation by telomerase.

Telomeric DNA at the ends of chromosomes consist of short, tandem repeat sequences. The telomeres of Paramecium tetraurelia are made up of variable repeats, whereas Paramecium caudatum telomeric repeats are largely invariant. To investigate variable repeat synthesis in P.tetraurelia , mutated telomerase RNA genes were expressed in vivo . We demonstrate that the P.caudatum telomerase RNA can participate in telomere synthesis when expressed in the P.tetraurelia macronucleus, despite 24% primary sequence divergence of the RNAs between the two species. De novo telomeric repeats from transformants indicate that P.tetraurelia telomerase fidelity is dramatically affected by template substitutions and that misincorporation at a single templating position is likely to account for the majority of P.tetraurelia telomeric DNA variability. Furthermore, we show that fidelity is not solely a function of the RNA moiety, as the P.caudatum telomerase RNA does not impart high fidelity to the chimeric enzyme.
Issues in managing the risks associated with perchlorate in drinking water

Abstract Perchlorate (ClO4−) contamination of ground and surface waters has placed drinking water supplies at risk in communities throughout the US, especially in the West. Several major assessment studies of that risk in terms of health and environmental impact are expected to be released by the US Environmental Protection Agency in early 1999, and preparations for how best to manage and minimize that risk are underway. Perchlorate salts are used in rocket and missile propulsion; therefore, it is believed that the pollution is derived primarily from defense and supporting industry. Due to the perchlorate anion's fundamental physical and chemical nature, the contamination is difficult to treat or remediate. The current work describes the evolution of the unique team-based governmental response to the problem and the rapidity of its development. Technologies under consideration that may prove feasible for treating contaminated water supplies are discussed and evaluated. The impact of these treatment technologies on other regulatory compliance matters and limitations of space, cost, and other resources are considered. Practical guidelines for approaching the problem are outlined, and current research needs are identified.
Adaptive modification of ingestive behavior in beach mice (Peromyscus polionotus).

Abstract The ability of an inland and beach race of the old-field mouse to use increasing concentrations of NaCl solutions was compared. Inland mice drank significantly more fluid at all concentrations than did beach mice. These differences became more pronounced as the salt concentration was increased. Food consumption was similar in both races while drinking water or a dilute salt solution, but beach mice ate significantly greater amounts when the concentration of salt was increased above 0.2 M. Weight losses on salt solutions were approximately equal in both races, although beach mice survived longer and tolerated the higher concentrations better. There was no difference in the ability of the races to concentrate urine or excrete Na + . When given a choice of distilled water or two salt solutions, beach mice consumed significantly more water (77%) than salt solutions (23%) whereas inland mice drank approximately equal amounts of water (54%) and salt solutions (46%). When deprived of anything to drink, beach mice almost stopped eating for the first two days while inland mice did not reduce their food consumption as quickly and died sooner. Thus, it appears that adaptive modifications of ingestive behavior are important for survival in habitats where salt accumlates and summer droughts may be a problem.
The Novels of Vicente Leñero

(1966). The Novels of Vicente Lenero. Critique: Studies in Contemporary Fiction: Vol. 8, No. 3, pp. 55-61.
Monte Carlo, hypothesis-tests for rare events superimposed on a background

Abstract We describe two techniques to search for small numbers of counts under a peak of known shape and superimposed on a background with statistical fluctuations. Many comparisons of a single experimental spectrum with computer simulations of the peak and background are made. From these we calculate the probability that y hypothesized counts in the peaks of the simulations, will result in a number larger than that observed in a given energy interval (bin) in the experimental spectrum. This is done for many values of the hypothesized number y . One procedure is very similar to testing a statistical hypothesis and can be analytically applied. Another is presented which is related to pattern recognition techniques and is less sensitive to the uncertainty in the mean. Sample applications to double beta decay data are presented.
Recruitment in the harvester ant, Pogonomyrmex occidentalis : effects of experimental removal

We examined the importance of experimental removal of mature colonies on colony recruitment in the western harvester ant Pogonomyrmex occidentalis. To test the common assumption that established colonies suppress the establishment of new colonies we removed all colonies in ten 0.25 ha plots in 1996 and an additional five plots in 1997 and measured new colony recruitment in 1997, 1998, and 1999. Using a blocked, paired plot design we found that removal of colonies increased new colony recruitment in some areas of the site, but not others. Spatial variation in the importance of established colonies to recruitment was consistent across years; blocks in which density dependence was important in one year exhibited density dependent recruitment in following years. We estimated that in the blocks where recruitment was affected by established colonies, they accounted for less than 10% of the mortality of foundress queens. The increase in the number of new recruits (on average two additional new colonies) was considerably less than the number of colonies removed; average colony density in the removal plots was 14 colonies per 0.25 ha plot. The consistent lack of importance of established colonies to recruitment in one block and the relatively small response to colony removal in the other blocks suggests that the number of new colonies in a year may not be equivalent to the number of deaths of established colonies in that year. Space limitation is an important influence on recruitment in P. occidentalis, but the magnitude of the limitation varies spatially.
Detection of the methyl radical in a methane/air diffusion flame by multiphoton ionization spectroscopy

Abstract Methyl radicals have been detected in an atmospheric pressure, methane/air diffusion flame by three-photon ionization. The origin band of the transition between the X 2 A 2 ″ ground electronic state and the 3p 2 A 2 ″ Rydberg state is observed at 333.5 nm via two-photon excitation. A second peak at 340.8 nm is likely due to both a methyl radical hot band in the same electronic transition and three-photon ionization of carbon atoms produced by photolysis. Spatial profiles are presented as a function of height above the burner and are discussed in terms of resonant and non-resonant ionization processes.
Towards A Universally Usable Human Interaction Proof: Evaluation of Task Completion Strategies

The need for security features to stop spam and bots has prompted research aimed at developing human interaction proofs (HIPs) that are both secure and easy to use. The primarily visual techniques used in these HIP tools present difficulties for users with visual impairments. This article reports on the development of Human-Interaction Proof, Universally Usable (HIPUU), a new approach to human-interaction proofs based on identification of a series of sound/image pairs. Simultaneous presentation of a single, unified task in two alternative modalities provides multiple paths to successful task completion. We present two alternative task completion strategies, based on differing input strategies (menu-based vs. free text entry). Empirical results from studies involving both blind and sighted users validate both the usability and accessibility of these differing strategies, with blind users achieving successful task completion rates above 90p. The strengths of the alternate task completion strategies are discussed, along with possible approaches for improving the robustness of HIPUU.
A Test to Measure the Effect of Self-Heating on the Scale Factor of a Measuring System for High Direct Voltage Based on a Resistor Divider

Unless the temperature of the divider is controlled, the dominant contribution to the uncertainty of resistor dividers used to measure high direct voltage is usually self-heating. This paper presents a simple test which can be used to estimate the change in scale factor caused by self-heating and the uncertainty in this estimate
Indoor pollutant exposure is associated with heightened respiratory symptoms in atopic compared to non-atopic individuals with COPD.

Indoor particulate matter (PM) has been linked to respiratory symptoms in former smokers with COPD. While subjects with COPD and atopy have also been shown to have more frequent respiratory symptoms, whether they exhibit increased susceptibility to PM as compared to their non-atopic counterparts remains unclear. The aim of this study was to determine whether atopic individuals with COPD have greater susceptibility to PM compared to non-atopic individuals with COPD. Former smokers with moderate to severe COPD were enrolled (n = 77). PM2.5, PM with diameter <2.5 micrometers, was measured in the main living area over three one-week monitoring periods at baseline, 3, and 6 months. Quality of life, respiratory symptoms and medication use were assessed by questionnaires. Serum was analyzed for specific IgE for mouse, cockroach, cat, dog and dust mite allergens. Atopy was established if at least one test was positive. Interaction terms between PM and atopy were tested and generalized estimating equation analysis determined the effect of PM concentrations on health outcomes. Multivariate models were adjusted for age, sex, education, race, season, and baseline lung function and stratified by atopic status. Among atopic individuals, each 10 μg/m3 increase in PM was associated with higher risk of nocturnal symptoms (OR, 1.95; P = 0.02), frequent wheezing (OR, 2.49; P = 0.02), increased rescue medication use (β = 0.14; P = 0.02), dyspnea (β = 0.23; P < 0.001), higher St. George’s Respiratory Quality of Life score (β = 2.55; P = 0.01), and higher breathlessness, cough, and sputum score (BCSS) (β = 0.44; P = 0.01). There was no association between PM and health outcomes among the non-atopic individuals. Interaction terms between PM2.5 and atopy were statistically significant for nocturnal symptoms, frequency of rescue medication use, and BCSS (all P < 0.1). Individuals with COPD and atopy appear to be at higher risk of adverse respiratory health effects of PM exposure compared to non-atopic individuals with COPD.
The Cinmar discovery and the proposed pre-Late Glacial Maximum occupation of North America

Abstract Proponents of a Solutrean colonization of the New World, and a pre-LGM occupation of North America's Mid-Atlantic region, cite as evidence a bifacially flaked, bi-pointed stone blade allegedly dredged from the continental shelf by the crew of the vessel Cinmar , along with portions of a mastodon skeleton later directly dated to 22,760 ± 90 RCYBP. However, our investigations into the discovery found several significant inconsistencies with respect to what is currently reported in the literature and raise serious questions that must be addressed before the Cinmar artifact can be considered evidence of anything pertinent to archaeology. In this article we present evidence and questions regarding the history of the Cinmar discovery, the location of the Cinmar discovery site, and the nature of the Cinmar vessel itself.
The Mesoscale Structure of Some Regions of Clear-Air Turbulence

Abstract The structure of the atmosphere in regions of clear-air turbulence is investigated by means of aircraft observations of wind and temperature in combination with objective and subjective turbulence records. The nature of the aircraft data and the assumptions inherent in the analyses are described. The detailed fields of vertical and horizontal wind shear, stability and Richardson number are presented for turbulence encountered in three different patterns of flow, viz., a sharp trough, an anticyclonic jet stream, and an intense straight jet. Severe turbulence (equivalent in intensity to that measured by the same aircraft in a mature thunderstorm) was found in certain portions of the trough and ridge, and moderate turbulence existed in the straight jet. Comparison of these cases and of twenty other flights indicates certain similarities and certain differences of the flow conditions in the turbulent regions. The necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of clear-air turbulence have not b...
Metal adsorption and adhesion energies on MgO(100).

The calormetically measured heats of adsorption of Cu, Ag, and Pb on MgO(100), previously measured in our group, are correlated with bulk properties of the metals and their sticking probabilities and film morphologies. The low-coverage heats of adsorption (when the metals are mainly in two-dimensional (2D) islands) are used to estimate metal−MgO(100) bond energies within a pairwise bond additivity model. These values correlate well with the observed initial sticking probabilities and saturation island densities of the metals. This supports a transient mobile precursor model for adsorption. The values also correlate with their bulk sublimation energies, which suggests that covalent metal−Mg bonding dominates the interaction at low coverage, probably due to very strong bonding at defects. The heats of adsorption integrated up to multilayer coverages provide the metal−MgO(100) adhesion energies and metal−MgO(100) bond energies for metals in 3D films. These values correlate with the sum of magnitudes of the m...
Evaluation of commercial radioimmunoassay kits.

By means of kits, RIA and competitivebinding assays are beginning to fulfill their great clinical potential. The reliability of these kits is still difficult to assess. The great variety of assayable substances and differing methods prevent any standard approach to kit analysis. Nevertheless there are means of evaluating many features of RIA kits. More important even than the necessary reproducibility of assays are the means of testing for (1) tracer-specific activity, maximal bind-ability, damage, and free iodine; (2) assay sensitivity; (3) antisera stability, cross-reactivity, ability to measure plasma zero values, ability to accurately measure serial plasma dilutions; (4) comparability of standard curve slopes from assay to assay. Separation techniques need proper standardization. Correction for incubation damage is recommended. It is necessary to insist on reasonably precise manufacturers' specifications as to antibody specificity and sensitivity. Knowledge of RIA in general and each assay in particular adds to the usefulness of the results obtained in the laboratory.
Variants in the interleukin 6 receptor gene are associated with obesity in Pima Indians

Circulating levels of the cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6) are elevated in obesity, correlate with body mass index (BMI), and predict the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A promoter polymorphism in the IL6 gene is associated with obesity, altered levels of insulin sensitivity, and T2DM. IL-6 exerts its effects by binding to the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and levels of IL-6R have been correlated with BMI. It is possible that IL6R variants may also be related to obesity, but to our knowledge, no study has yet examined this relationship. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between genetic variants in the IL6R gene and obesity in Pima Indians, a population prone to excess adiposity. We sequenced 6kb of the IL6R gene, corresponding to all exons, exon-intron boundaries, and 2kb of promoter in 30 Pima Indians. We identified six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the IL6R gene: a predicted Asp --> Ala substitution at position 358, a variant in the 3'-untranslated region, and 4 intronic SNPs. All SNPs were in strong linkage disequilibrium (D' >/= 0.90) and varied in minor allele frequency from 0.33 to 0.48. Association between IL6R genotype and BMI (kg/m(2)) was assessed in approximately 700 nondiabetic, full-heritage Pima Indians. For each SNP, individuals carrying the variant allele had a higher mean BMI compared to those with the wild-type allele (range: [37.3+/-7.2-38.2+/-7.0] vs. [35.5+/-7.3-36.0+/-7.5]; P=0.02-0.004). Our findings suggest that genetic variants in the IL6R gene may play a role in susceptibility to obesity. Assessment of these SNPs in other populations will be useful to determine the magnitude of obesity risk.
Recovery of train-of-four after mivacurium.

The present study was designed to determine the time-course of recovery of the train-of-four (TOF) ratio during spontaneous recovery from mivacurium-induced block. Fifteen patients, free of neuromuscular disease, undergoing general endotracheal anaesthesia with isoflurane were studied. After anaesthetic induction, patients received a bolus dose of mivacurium 0.15 mg · kg−1. The TOF was then recorded continuously every 12 sec with a mechanogram (adductor pollicis monitor). When the TOF ratio recovered spontaneously to 0.9, an additional 0.05 mg · kg−1 of mivacurium was given. The durations required for recovery from a TOF ratio of 0.3 to 0.7 (DUR0.3–0.7) and from a TOF ratio of 0.3 to 0.9 (DUR0.3–0.9) were determined. The DUR0.3–0.7 averaged 7.0 ± 2.5 min (range 3.4–12.2 min). The DUR0.3–0.9 averaged 11.8 ± 3.9 min (range 6.0–20.2 min). There was no evidence of prolongation of recovery times (cumulation) following repeated dosing. The present data indicate that, in patients with normal cholinesterase activity (clinical duration 7–25 min), waiting 20 min beyond the time when fade is no longer apparent by visual or tactile evaluation is sufficient to attain a TOF ratio greater than 0.7–0.9 during spontaneous recovery from mivacurium, and may enable anaesthetists to avoid antagonism of mivacurium-induced block.
Type of cottonseed and level of gossypol in diets of lactating dairy cows: plasma gossypol, health, and reproductive performance.

Objectives were to determine effects of altering gossypol intake by feeding whole linted Upland (WUP) or a 1:2 blend of WUP and cracked Pima (BUPCP) cottonseed on plasma gossypol (PG) concentrations, reproduction, and health of Holstein cows. Cows, 813, on three dairy farms were assigned to one of two diets starting at 13 ± 11 d in milk for a 170-d experiment. Diets contained 717 and 951 mg of free gossypol/kg of dry matter from WUP and BUPCP, respectively. Concentrations of PG, as well as the proportion of total gossypol (TG) as the minus isomer were higher for cows fed BUPCP vs cows fed WUP. Conception rate at the first postpartum artificial insemination did not differ between treatments. However, cows consuming the higher gossypol diet had reduced subsequent conception rates and a lower pregnancy rate. Incidence of abortions increased in the higher gossypol diet, and cows that aborted or remained open had higher PG concentrations. Increasing PG concentrations resulted in reduced conception rates and extended days open. The probability of conception after the first artificial insemination declined at a decreasing rate as the plasma TG increased. Incidence of health disorders were unaffected by gossypol intake and PG concentrations. Similarly, gossypol intake and PG concentrations had no effect on culling or mortality. Six cows died in each diet, and none had postmortem signs compatible with gossypol toxicity. Consumption of a high gossypol diet for 170 d had no effect on health of lactating dairy cows, but it increased PG concentrations and impaired reproductive performance.
New small sample estimators for cointegration regression: Low-pass spectral filter method

Abstract In this paper we propose a low-pass spectral filter method to estimate cointegrating vectors. The simulation study shows that the small sample properties of the proposed estimators are quite appealing. For the low signal to noise ratio cases in which fully modified least squares (FMLS) is better than ordinary least squares (OLS), filtered least squares beats OLS and filtered FMLS is dominantly better than the FMLS.
Dictation as a measure of Japanese proficiency

While a number of researchers have reported positive and high reliability and validity for dictation as a measure of language proficiency in English and French as second languages, not much research on dictation has been con ducted with other languages, particularly where there is a close correspondence between pronounciation and orthography. Stansfield (1977) found that dicta tion was only a moderately valid measure for Spanish as a second language. The study reported here examined whether a form of modified dictation called 'graduated dictation' would be able to discriminate between different language proficiency levels in students learning Japanese at an American university. ANOVA showed that there were significant differences between proficiency levels. Results also suggested that dictation would be an effective measure of language proficiency even if a target language has a very close relationship between its pronounciation and orthography.
Posttraumatic stress disorder in combat casualties with burns sustaining primary blast and concussive injuries.

Abstract : Background: There is a heightened focus on post-explosion functional outcomes in combat casualties. Previously, we reported a high prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (32%) and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) (41%) in patients with explosion-related burns. We hypothesized that the prevalence of PTSD in patients with burn was associated with primary blast injuries (PBIs) and mTBI. Methods: We reviewed the records of 333 patients admitted consecutively to the United States Army Institute of Surgical Research burn center for explosion-related injuries between March 2003 and March 2006. By using the Posttraumatic Checklist, Military Version (PCL-M), patients were evaluated for PTSD symptoms (PCL-M score greater than 44). Loss of consciousness defined mTBI. Patient data were analyzed in groups based on PTSD (yes or no), mechanism of injury (improvised explosive device [IED] vs. other explosive), PBI (yes or no), and mTBI (yes or no). Results: Of 333 patients, 119 had PTSD assessments. Overall, PTSD was 22% (26 of 119). The prevalence of PTSD differed between mechanism of injury groups (p = 0.03). In the IED group (n 105), 25% had PTSD symptoms and 18% had mTBI; patients injured by other explosive devices (n 14) had no PTSD symptoms and one had mTBI (p = 0.04; p = 0.69, respectively). Also in the IED group, in patients with PBI, PTSD was 45% (9 of 20) compared with 20% (17 of 85) without PBI (odds ratio = 3.27; 95% confidence interval, 1.17--9.16). More patients with PBI and mTBI (4 of 6; 67%) had PTSD symptoms compared with other patients (22 of 99; 22%) (odds ratio, 7.00; 95% confidence interval, 1.20--40.78). No other associations were found between PBI and mTBI. Conclusion: IED-wounded burn patients with PBI and mTBI have a greater prevalence of PTSD. Patients who did not have IED-related injuries did not have PTSD and only one had mTBI.
The Reorganization of the Professions by Regulation

This paper briefly notes recent efforts at regulating the professions, distinguishing regulation by the market, by the bureaucracy and by collegial mandate. It attempts to assess regulation by first evaluating and then rejecting the theories of deprofessionalization and of proletarianization. This paper suggests that while the essential corporate autonomy of professions is not being affected by regulatory activities, traditionally “free” professions like law, medicine, and dentistry are being reorganized into a formal system of stratification. Consequently, a formal professional elite is being created that develops standards enforced to govern the performance of the rank-and-file professional worker. Possible consequences are briefly discussed.
Concise Review: Chemical Approaches for Modulating Lineage-Specific Stem Cells and Progenitors

Generation and manipulation of lineage-restricted stem and progenitor cells in vitro and/or in vivo are critical for the development of stem cell-based clinical therapeutics. Lineage-restricted stem and progenitor cells have many advantageous qualities, including being able to efficiently engraft and differentiate into desirable cell types in vivo after transplantation, and they are much less tumorigenic than pluripotent cells. Generation of lineage-restricted stem and progenitor cells can be achieved by directed differentiation from pluripotent stem cells or lineage conversion from easily obtained somatic cells. Small molecules can be very helpful in these processes since they offer several important benefits. For example, the risk of tumorigenesis is greatly reduced when small molecules are used to replace integrated transcription factors, which are widely used in cell fate conversion. Furthermore, small molecules are relatively easy to apply, optimize, and manufacture, and they can more readily be developed into conventional pharmaceuticals. Alternatively, small molecules can be used to expand or selectively control the differentiation of lineage-restricted stem and progenitor cells for desirable therapeutics purposes in vitro or in vivo. Here we summarize recent progress in the use of small molecules for the expansion and generation of desirable lineage-restricted stem and progenitor cells in vitro and for selectively controlling cell fate of lineage-restricted stem and progenitor cells in vivo, thereby facilitating stem cell-based clinical applications.
Inequalities on the Overshoot beyond a Boundary for Independent Summands with Differing Distributions.

Abstract Let { S n : n ⩾ 0 } ( S 0 = 0 ) denote the successive sums of independent non-negative random variates, of possibly differing distributions. Define: (1) the number N ( b ) = inf { n ⩾ 0 : S n > b } of sums in the interval [ 0 , b ] ; and (2) the overshoot R b = S N ( b ) - b . This paper bounds the tail P { R b > c } and the moments E R b k .
The Scholarly Status of Blacks in the Economics Profession: Have the National Economic Association and the Review of Black Political Economy Mattered?

This paper considers whether the National Economic Association and its journal the Review of Black Political Economy have enhanced the scholarly status of black economists. A bibliometric analysis reveals that while the typical black economist has never published in the Review of Black Political Economy, the share of black economists publishing in the Review of Black Economy approximates the share of all articles published on the economic and political economy of race by black economists, and the share of articles published in the Review of Black Political Economy by black economists appears higher than typical journals in economics—particularly for black economists employed at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. We also find that similar to other economics journals non-black economists dominate the share of published articles, and publications in the Review of Black Political Economy appear to be consistent with Lotka’s Law of scientific productivity suggesting that the journal is a standard outlet for research no different from any other science journal. Our results imply a plausible counterfactual that if the National Economic Association and Review of Black Political Economy did not exist, the scholarly status of blacks in the economics profession would have been lower than currently observed.
Toward a transactional theory of decision making: creative rationality as functional coordination in context

This paper poses a Deweyan challenge to both the neoclassical framework of rational choice and models of bounded rationality and deliberation, especially the procedural theory of rationality advanced by Herbert Simon. We demonstrate how modern theories on procedural or instrumental rationality trace their origin to the tradition of British empiricism, especially the philosophy of David Hume. Most theories of action such as Simon's assume actors may control their bodies 'at will.' For Dewey, habits are will; we control them when we identify them and condition them through reflective deliberation. To clarify our Deweyan critique, we use empirical research on consumer's use of mathematical calculation in supermarkets, by Jean Lave, which rejects calculative Turing machine rationality. We argue that a theory that can deal with deliberation regarding incommensurable values better explains economic behavior in the everyday marketplace. Thus, economists would do better to concentrate on social practices in speci...
Increased Medicare expenditures for physicians' services: what are the causes?

In light of rising expenditures for physicians' services and the scheduled decreases in the amounts Medicare pays for such services, we identified the sources of change in the volume and intensity of Medicare physicians' services. We found that the per capita volume and intensity of physicians' services used by Medicare beneficiaries increased more than 30% between 1993 and 1998. Our analyses indicated that, at most, half of this increase was due to measurable changes in the demographic composition, places of residence, prevalence of health conditions, and managed care enrollment of beneficiaries. The other half was due to a general increase in the use of care across beneficiary categories.
Disruption of DNA methylation-dependent long gene repression in Rett syndrome

Rett syndrome is caused by mutation of the MECP2 gene that codes for a protein that binds methylated DNA; this study reveals that MeCP2 affects the expression of long genes, which often serve neuronal functions. Autism-related Rett syndrome is caused by disruption of the MECP2 gene, which codes for a methyl-DNA binding protein, but how MECP2 may control transcription of other genes has remained unclear. Now Michael Greenberg and colleagues show that disruption of the Mecp2 gene in a mouse model and in human Rett syndrome leads to preferential upregulation of longer genes, and that these often serve neuronal functions. Further data indicate that decreasing the expression of long genes, via hypomethylation of the dinucleotide CA, attenuates Rett-related dysfunctions in cultured neurons lacking MECP2. Disruption of the MECP2 gene leads to Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe neurological disorder with features of autism1. MECP2 encodes a methyl-DNA-binding protein2 that has been proposed to function as a transcriptional repressor, but despite numerous mouse studies examining neuronal gene expression in Mecp2 mutants, no clear model has emerged for how MeCP2 protein regulates transcription3,4,5,6,7,8,9. Here we identify a genome-wide length-dependent increase in gene expression in MeCP2 mutant mouse models and human RTT brains. We present evidence that MeCP2 represses gene expression by binding to methylated CA sites within long genes, and that in neurons lacking MeCP2, decreasing the expression of long genes attenuates RTT-associated cellular deficits. In addition, we find that long genes as a population are enriched for neuronal functions and selectively expressed in the brain. These findings suggest that mutations in MeCP2 may cause neurological dysfunction by specifically disrupting long gene expression in the brain.
Creep behavior of discontinuous SiCAl composites

Abstract A review of creep data of discontinuous SiCAl composites (whisker and particulate) shows that the creep behavior of these composites exhibits two main characteristics: (a) the stress dependence of the steady state (or minimum) creep rate, as described by the value of the stress exponent, is high and variable and (b) the temperature dependence of the steady state (or minimum) creep rate, which is measured by the creep activation energy, is much larger than that for self-diffusion in aluminum. These two characteristics are examined in the light of theoretical treatments describing the origin of high temperature strengthening in discontinuous metal matrix composites and dislocation models proposed for dispersion-strengthened alloys.
Lorenz Curves for Various Processes: A Pluralistic Approach to Equity

Theoretical Lorenz curves for a bureaucracy withn seniority levels and similar curves for a simple stochastic economy with capitalistic opportunity to move up or down are derived. In both cases it is argued that equality of distribution is not an appropriate ideal. But the main thrust is that income alone is not a sufficient criterion of equity. A more general Aristotelian viewpoint is argued for. The marked increase in the equity of education between 1940 and 1984 in the United States is taken as a good example. But even within education, it is argued, detailed policies will realistically satisfy no simple set of equity principles.
PREPARATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF 6-AMINO-6-DEOXYAMYLOSE.

Amylose is tritylated, phenylcarbamoylated, and detritylated to give a polymer with free hydroxyls at position C6. These are tosylated and the tosyloxy groups displaced with azide ion. Reduction with lithium alumium hydride yields 6-amino-6-deoxyamylose. Degrees of substitution from 0.1 to 1.0 are prepared in two different molecular weight ranges. Optical rotation, viscosity, iodine reaction, and film forming characteristics of these polymers are described. Reaction with d -glucose to form a d -glucosylamine occurs.
A soluble product of human corneal fibroblasts inhibits lymphocyte activation. Enhancement by interferon-gamma.

Abstract Corneal stromal fibroblasts expressed HLA-DP, -DQ and -DR Class II MHC antigens in response to interferon-gamma;, but did not induce proliferative responses by allogeneic peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro when used as stimulator cells in a mixed leukocyte-type reaction. Furthermore, corneal stromal fibroblasts inhibited mixed leukocyte reactions between peripheral blood mononuclear cells of allogeneic donors, even when the corneal stromal fibroblasts were separated from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells by a 0·4μm pore membrane. Pretreatment of the corneal stromal fibroblasts with interferon-γ increased the inhibitory activity. Both [ 3 H]thymidine incorporation and interleukin-2 production were inhibited, and the inhibition appeared to be mediated by a soluble factor whose production required protein synthesis. The inhibitory activity was not abolished by including 1-10μg ml -1 indomethacin in the culture media. No inhibition was observed in the proliferation dose-response curves of responder peripheral blood mononuclear cells that had been cultured with corneal stromal fibroblasts for 3 days, prior to culture with allogeneic stimulator peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Thus, the ability of corneal stromal fibroblasts to interfere with alloimmune responses in vitro was dependent upon the continued presence of the fibroblasts and their continued production of a soluble inhibitory factor or factors. Inhibitors of allogeneic reactions that are produced by corneal stromal fibroblasts stimulated by immune cytokines (e.g. interferon-γ) may play a role in prolonging corneal allograft survival.
Together or separate in the fight against oppression? Liberals in Peru and Spain in the 1820s

Following the new avenues of research opened by historians of the Atlantic world, this study analyzes key ideological writings in the press to illustrate some thematic and ideological interconnections between liberals in Spain and Peru in the 1810s and early 1820s. Liberalism emerged in the Spanish world as an ideology-in-the-making that was both Peninsular and American. Liberalism was conceived in broad and abstract terms as a struggle for the overthrow of absolutism and the implementation of liberties and constitutionalism. Soon it evolved into a protest against the oppression of Ferdinand VII’s despotic rule as well as military despotism in Spanish America. Although by the 1820s independence movements prevailed in most parts of Spanish America, many liberals on both sides of the Atlantic continued to envision their struggle as a common one. These circumstances have often been overlooked in the historiography of both Spain and Spanish America, but they are key to understanding the breakdown of the Spani...
Loaded short-slot antenna with enhanced radiation or improved directivity

The circuit and radiation properties of a short-slot antenna doubly shunt loaded by lumped impedances are investigated experimentally. It is demonstrated that the electric-field distribution in the slot can be controlled by appropriate adjustment of the shunt impedances. Optimum capacitive loadings are determined to implement slot fields having either a nearly uniform distribution leading to enhanced radiation, or a reversed-phase distribution leading to improved directivity.
Molt Induced by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist as a Model for Studying Endocrine Mechanisms of Molting in Laying Hens

Molt induced by infusion of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-A, ([D-Leu6,Pro9]-GnRH N-ethylamide]) has been used as a model for studying the endocrine mechanisms of molting. Molt induced by GnRH-A was also compared with that induced by feed withdrawal (FW). Thirty-three laying hens were divided into three groups: 1) sham infused (controls), 2) molted by GnRH-A infusion (GnRH-A), or 3) molted by FW. All groups had reduced day length. Birds were weighed and blood was sampled twice per week. Plasma was assayed for thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), and progesterone (P4); egg production was recorded. A separate group of GnRH-A molted (n = 8) and control (n = 4) hens were killed during the molt and liver, ovary, and oviduct were weighed. Plasma T4 concentrations were elevated (P less than .01), whereas plasma T3 did not change and plasma P4 decreased (P less than .05) in the GnRH-A group compared with the control group. Plasma T4 was higher (P less than .05) in the GnRH-A group than in the FW group, whereas plasma T3 was higher (P less than .05) in the FW group than in the GnRH-A group. Plasma P4 concentrations declined to similar low levels in the GnRH-A and FW groups. The GnRH-A caused weight loss (P less than .05) from the ovary, oviduct, and liver. The GnRH-A-molted hens lost less BW (P less than .001) and were out of lay for 12 days less than FW-molted hens. Postmolt rates of lay were not significantly different for the two groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Periodic 18.6-year and cyclic 11-year induced drought and flood in northeastern China and some global implications

Abstract The general patterns of climatic evolution in China during the Holocene are reviewed, and following the postglacial eustatic rise of sea-level and the institution of the East Asian Monsoon, the systems and principal fluctuations are found to be concordant with those operating elsewhere in the globe. China's unique wealth of written history provides an abundance of proxy data on the climatic record and that record now furnishes a basis for analysing both long-term and short-term fluctuations, as well as sunspot behavior, that together provide an insight into extraterrestrial forcing. Recent Chinese work suggests a solar forcing, but our own studies suggest rather that a lunar tidal component, reinforced at times by the solar element may prove more important. Analysis of a drought-flood index for Peking (Beijing) in northeastern China since A.D. 1470 supports evidence (Hameed et al. , 1983) for both periodic lunar nodal 18.6-year and solar cyclic 11-year induced drought-flood in the region. The nodal term exhibits bistable phasing with respect to epochs of tidal maxima (for our century epochs occurred at 1917.5, 1936.1, 1954.7 and 1973.3), a phenomenon previously found in drought-flood proxy data for South America (Currie, 1983), India (Currie, 1984a), North America (Currie, 1984d), and Africa (Hameed and Currie, 1985; Currie and Hameed, 1985). Solar cycle epochs of drought-flood are tabulated for the past two centuries, and compared with those from North America and Africa.
The Product of Self-Deception

I raise the question of what cognitive attitude self-deception brings about. That is: what is the product of self-deception? Robert Audi and Georges Rey have argued that self-deception does not bring about belief in the usual sense, but rather “avowal” or “avowed belief.” That means a tendency to affirm verbally (both privately and publicly) that lacks normal belief-like connections to non-verbal actions. I contest their view by discussing cases in which the product of self-deception is implicated in action in a way that exemplifies the motivational role of belief. Furthermore, by applying independent criteria of what it is for a mental state to be a belief, I defend the more intuitive view that being self-deceived that p entails believing that p. Beliefs (i) are the default for action relative to other cognitive attitudes (such as imagining and hypothesis) and (ii) have cognitive governance over the other cognitive attitudes. I explicate these two relations and argue that they obtain for the product of self-deception.
Issues in minority health: assessment and strategies for intervention

Attempts to shed light on the mental health needs of ethnic minorities and the inadequacies of the existing mental health needs for them. Considers the drawbacks in the delivery system and provides guidelines for improved assessment, treatment, treatment strategies and preventative measures. Uses analysis of recent psychological and sociological developments in the field of mental health.