cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The climate impacts of sulfate aerosols

Sulfate aerosols (SO4) from anthropogenic emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2) generally have a cooling effect. However, if SO2 emissions fall over time, accounting for sulfate aerosols will increase the predicted warming from greenhouse gases. This paper integrates the four marker emission scenarios for CO2 and SO4 from the Special Report on Emissions Scenarios (SRES), the UIUC general circulation model (GCM), and a country-specific impact model (GIM) to calculate the impacts of sulfate aerosols. By 2100, lower SO2 emissions slightly increase warming in the temperate and polar regions causing small damages in the former and small benefits in the latter. If SO2 emissions are also lower in tropical regions, temperatures will rise causing small damages there as well. However, if SO2 emissions rise in tropical regions, temperatures will fall leading to small benefits.
Financing bank stock ownership: A question of conflict of interest☆

Abstract The bank stock loan conflict of interest question arises when compensating balances are intermingled with a bank's correspondent balances for the benefit of those bank stockholders seeking a bank stock loan. This study attempts to determine if this practice exists usign two-stage least square regression analysis and cross-sectional data obtained from one-bank holding company applications in the Tenth Federal Reserve District. Our results suggest that bankers with established correspondent banking relationships capitalize on their correspondent balances to obtain favorable interest rates on bank stock loans.
Systems Metabolic Engineering of Arabidopsis for Increased Cellulose Production

Plant metabolism offers a source to a diverse variety of commodity compounds. One current focus is on improving the yield of cellulose for use of bioethanol production. Most current metabolic engin...
Edgeworth’s Mathematical Psychics: A Centennial Notice

Francis Ysidro Edgeworth (1845–1926) published his Mathematical Psychics in 1881.1 While not an architectonic classic, such as Alfred Marshall’s Principles,2 it was a major work in the history of economics. It was, in retrospect, a book remarkable for its time in its emphasis on mathematical formalism, its depth of technical sophistication and formulation, and its studied application of utilitarian analysis to matters of economic and political policy, as well as its particular substantive contributions to the discipline. A book now apparently largely unread, it is striking for what it did, for what it tried but did not accomplish, and for what it contained that was neglected by subsequent writers until redeveloped much later. More important, it prefigured both the form which economic analysis was subsequently to take and the problems of applying economic analysis to problems of policy. It is a book worthy of centennial notice, indeed, perhaps capable of providing further insight.
Role of dimethylsulfoniopropionate as an osmoprotectant following gradual salinity shifts in the sea-ice diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus

Environmental context Dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), a small sulfur compound biosynthesised by algae, plays an important role in global climate, particularly in polar regions. We investigated salinity effects on DMSP levels, and provide the first experimental measurements of DMSP and associated physiological changes in a polar diatom across to a range of gradual salinity shifts representative of sea-ice conditions. Quantitative estimates of DMSP in polar diatoms following salinity changes will facilitate new mathematical models to predict seasonal responses and reactions to climate change. Abstract Although extreme environmental gradients within sea-ice have been proposed to stimulate dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) accumulation in diatoms, a taxa whose temperate counterparts show relatively low concentrations, this has yet to be experimentally validated across a range of salinities representative of sea-ice conditions. The present study examined changes in DMSP concentrations in the widespread polar diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus in response to gradual salinity shifts representative of those encountered during sea-ice formation and melt. DMSP concentrations were elevated up to 127% in 70-salinity cultures. Low-salinity shifts decreased intracellular DMSP concentrations in a gradient-dependent manner that suggests DMSP recycling rather than release under milder hyposalinity shifts. Permeable membranes were detected in ~45% of 10-salinity cells; therefore, loss of membrane integrity may only partially explain DMSP release in the lowest-salinity group. Growth rates, photosynthetic efficiency of photosystem II and reactive oxygen species detection indicated only partial impairment by salinity stress in this organism. Thus, experimental evidence supports the role of DMSP as a compatible solute in the acclimation of a sea-ice diatom across large salinity gradients and measurements of associated physiological changes will improve interpretation of environmental measurements.
CENTRALITY DEPENDENCE OF CHARGED HADRON SPECTRA AT FORWARD RAPIDITIES IN Cu+Cu COLLISIONS AT $\sqrt{^SNN} = 200\ {\rm GeV}$

We present preliminary results for Cu+Cu collisions at at the BRAHMS experiment from charged hadron spectra and nuclear modification factors as a function of centrality and pseudo-rapidity. Deviations from binary scaling at intermediate and high-pT reveal themselves as a suppression in the transverse momentum distribution of produced particles. The observed suppression depends on the volume of the interaction region through which produced hadrons have to travel. While there is still significant suppression, Rcp seems to depend very little on pseudo-rapidity.
Functional correction of FA-C cells withFANCC suppresses the expression of interferon γ–inducible genes

Because hematopoietic cells derived from Fanconi anemia (FA) patients of the C-complementation group (FA-C) are hypersensitive to the inhibitory effects of interferon γ (IFNγ), the products of certain IFNγ-inducible genes known to influence hematopoietic cell survival were quantified. High constitutive expression of the IFNγ-inducible genes, IFN-stimulated gene factor 3 gamma subunit (ISGF3γ), IFN regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1), and the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21WAF1 was found in FANCC mutant B lymphoblasts, low-density bone marrow cells, and murine embryonic fibroblasts. Paradoxically, these cells do not activate signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1 properly. In an attempt to clarify mechanisms by which FA-C cells overexpress IFNγ-inducible genes in the face of defective STAT1 phosphorylation, it was reasoned that decreased levels of activated STAT1 might result in reduced expression of a hematopoietic IFNγ-responsive protein that normally modulates expression of other IFNγ-responsive genes. Levels of the IFNγ-inducible factor IFN consensus sequence binding protein (ICSBP), a negative trans-acting regulator of some IFNγ-inducible genes, were quantified. ICSBP levels were reduced in FA-C B lymphoblasts and MEFs. However, enforced expression of ICSBP failed to down-regulate IRF-1, ISGF3γ, and p21WAF1. Thus, the FANCC protein functions to modulate expression of a family of genes that in normal cells are inducible only by specific environmental cues for apoptosis or mitogenic inhibition, but it does so independently of the classic IFN-STAT1 pathway and is not the direct result of reduced ICSBP expression.
The Role of the Woodchuck Model in the Treatment of Hepatitis B Virus Infection

Experimental studies of animals with chronic hepadnavirus infection could provide valuable insight into optimal therapeutic strategies for individuals with chronic HBV infection. In this review, we focus on the contributions of the woodchuck model to our understanding of HBV biology and on its role in the development of antiviral drug. Furthermore, we consider the implications of studies focusing on the natural history of WHV infection for the management of HBV and the capacity of treatment to prevent complications of chronic hepatitis B infection.
Production rescheduling for machine breakdown at a job shop

Rescheduling is a procedure to repair a production plan affected by unexpected disruptions. It is important because a production schedule released to a shop floor is subject to unexpected disruptions. This paper develops two novel heuristic rescheduling procedures, AWI-J and AWI-O, to minimise mean tardiness of jobs in a job shop. The procedures are based on an active schedule-generation procedure and Wilkerson–Irwin algorithm, which is well known for minimising mean tardiness of a schedule. The performances of the new procedures are compared with those of the Affected Operations Rescheduling (AOR) procedure, which is popular in the rescheduling literature. Efficiency measures such as mean tardiness, mean flowtime, and makespan, and a stability measure, deviation of new operation start times from the original start times, are used for comparison. Test results show that AWI-J improves efficiency over AOR, and AWI-O improves efficiency and stability as well.
Why International Organizations Should Bring Basic Needs Back in

An important milestone in the development debate is the recognition of poverty as a multidimensional phenomenon via the capabilities approach. However, a challenge remains in that many governments in less-developed countries continue to avoid prioritizing issues of absolute deprivation. This paper demonstrates how and why existing efforts to operationalize capabilities may distract policy makers from giving sufficient weight to issues of basic survival. We propose that international organizations can address this challenge through a method of triangulation: (1) identify how countries rank on universal goals of human development; (2) identify how countries rank on universal goals of basic needs provision; and (3) promote participatory poverty assessments. This approach ensures that absolute deprivation issues are addressed, and it establishes an acceptable (and necessary) balance between standardization and local complexity.
Early diagnosis of parkinson.

What a privilege it is to contribute to a Festschrift for Doctor Barraquer Ferre! It is for others to evaluate his work as a neurologist. Here I wish only to salute a man who, though seven thousand miles away I regard as one of my closest friends. His letters, which breathe such benevolent warmth, an all too short association with him in Paris in 1949 which opened to me the aristocracy of his mind and soul, cemented this friendship […]. [...]
The importance of legacy outcomes for Olympic Games four summer host cities residents' quality of life: 1996–2008

Abstract The importance of legacy evaluation for Olympic host cities is noted in sport, tourism, economic, and sociological journals. However, there was lack of empirical evidence of the Olympic Games long-term effects in local societies. Thus, this study explored the importance of legacy outcomes for residents' quality of life in four Summer Olympic cities: Atlanta, Sydney, Athens, and Beijing. The study utilized survey research with the four cities residents. The questionnaires reflected the Olympic Games legacy outcomes as noted in International Olympic Committee official final Olympic Games reports. ANOVA and t-tests were used to estimate how significant the outcomes were and whether demographics influenced residents' perceptions across the four cities. The results suggest that residents of Atlanta and Sydney value outcomes from the Games such as emotional investment and spaces associated with the Games that have a socialization dimension higher than residents of Athens and Beijing who value the more ...
Regulation of the ETS transcription factor ER81 by the 90-kDa ribosomal S6 kinase 1 and protein kinase A.

The ETS transcription factor ER81 is activated in response to many signals via mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). However, ER81 is not only phosphorylated on MAPK sites but also at other sites that impact on its transactivation potential. Here we describe that the 90-kDa ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (RSK1), a protein kinase downstream of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) subclass of MAPKs, binds to ER81, phosphorylates it, and enhances ER81-dependent transcription. Two in vivo RSK1 phosphorylation sites within ER81, Ser191 and Ser216, were identified, whose mutation to alanine reduces ER81 activity upon ERK-MAPK stimulation. Furthermore, RSK1 activates the ER81 cofactor CREB-binding protein and may thereby augment ER81-dependent transcription. Similar to RSK1, the cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) phosphorylates ER81 on Ser191/Ser216. Additionally, PKA targets ER81 on Ser334 in vivo. Surprisingly, phosphorylation of Ser334 severely reduces the DNA-binding ability of ER81 but also enhances the transactivation potential of ER81. These counteractive effects of PKA phosphorylation on ER81-dependent transcription may cause the selective up-regulation of promoters with high but not low affinity for ER81. Collectively, we have identified mechanisms for how two distinct signaling pathways with different effector protein kinases, RSK1 and PKA, converge on ER81, which may regulate ER81 function during development and tumorigenesis.
Instrumented Measurement of the Posterolateral Corner

A new device called the Lars Rotational Laxiometer (Lars Inc, Dijon, France) is introduced to aid in the diagnosis of posterolateral rotatory instability of the knee. This device assigns a quantitative value for tibial external rotation. Three examiners each evaluated a separate group of 30 different subjects (total 180 knees) to obtain side-to-side differences. The subjects had no history of injury, pain, or instability. An external rotation measurement was performed at 30 degrees and 90 degrees of knee flexion. At 90 degrees, the mean side-to-side difference was 4.4 degrees (range, 3.7 degrees to 5.1 degrees); at 30 degrees it was 5.5 degrees (range, 4.7 degrees to 6.3 degrees). There was no significant difference with gender or age. The purpose of this study is to establish baseline side-to-side values for the posterolateral complex in normal knees. Objective values are obtainable with the Laxiometer.
Possible climatic response of δ 13C in leaf cellulose of pinyon pine in Arizona, U.S.A.

Leaves of pinyon pine (Pinus edulis) were collected from ten living trees at nine sites in Arizona and New Mexico, representing elevations from 1200 to 2200 m. Stable-carbon isotopic analysis was performed on cellulose isolated from the whole leaf material. In spite of the range of conditions, the δ 13C response only varies over ~ 1‰ with an average δ 13C variance among leaves of the same tree of 0.4‰. The δ 13C-values were regressed with elevation and with monthly, seasonal and annual climate data obtained from nearby climatological stations. Linear relations of S with temperature, T, and 5 with precipitation, R, yield mostly positive correlations, not significant at 95%. Because of high δ 13C-values of the two highest elevation sites, the regressions improve greatly for second-order polynomials of elevation and temperature (P < 0.05). The mechanism for higher δ 13C at higher elevations is not clear, but perhaps related to length of growing season. There may be some potential for reconstructions based on strong linear relations derived for the lower elevation trees.
Investigation of ferroelectric effects in two sulfide deposits

Abstract Laboratory studies by different investigators using various techniques have expanded the number of known ferroelectric ore minerals to about twenty at present from the first discovery of makedonite (PbTiO3) in 1950. These include such common ore minerals as bismuthinite (Bi2S3), cassiterite (SnO2), chalcocite (Cu2S), pyrrhotite (Fe1−xS), and stibnite (Sb2S3). Two field investigations of sulfide ore bodies that contain known ferroelectric minerals were undertaken to investigate possible in-situ effects in these deposits. These deposits, at Mount Emmons (38°53′N, 107°03′W), Colorado, and Three R Canyon (31°28′N, 110°46′W) in the Patagonia Mountains, Arizona, demonstrate ferroelectric effects that include directional polarization and apparent resistivity, electrically-excited resonance, and lack of reciprocity. Other phenomena include history-dependent electrical behavior and inductive effects. Ferroelectrics polarize as a function of applied potential. It is much easier to generate a large potential than the high currents commonly used in IP surveys. Thus, in electrical surveys of deposits known, or suspected, to contain ferroelectric minerals it may be advantageous to maximize the applied potential. It may also be relatively easy to induce electrical resonance in these deposits that could provide an inexpensive reconnaissance technique. In IP and CR surveys, ferroelectric effects can mask the deposit since ϱa may approach zero in the polar direction, or chargeability may be undetectable. Phase relations will most likely be uninterpretable in CR surveys over such deposits. In CSAMT surveys, directional resonance effects may preclude depth interpretation. Frequency-dependent inductive and capacitive effects may be observed in CR and CSAMT surveys over deposits containing significant quantities of ferroelectric minerals. Ferroelectricity may also be useful in exploitation efforts for electrical beneficiation during ore processing.
A Golgi analysis of caudate neurons in rats exposed to carbon monoxide

Interneurons of the caudate nucleus have been reported in the literature to respond to deafferentation by reduction in dendritic spines. In the studies reported here, caudate interneurons have been examined using the Golgi technique and increased numbers of spines were found in adult rats exposed to carbon monoxide as neonates. The development of spines on the caudate neurons was delayed for several days after an acute anoxic episode in 5-day-old rats exposed to carbon monoxide to the point of respiratory arrest. By the time the rats were 6 weeks old the caudate neurons had recovered to the point where they had essentially normal numbers of spines. At later ages (2- and 7-months old) the number of spines was greater in rats exposed perinatally to carbon monoxide than in control rats of the same age. The development of abnormal numbers of spines coincided with the time of recovery of rats from behavioral hyperactivity induced by carbon monoxide. The increased spines on the caudate neurons of the adult rats (7-months old) can be explained as a compensatory response to increased afferent flow to the caudate during the period of juvenile hyperactivity which reaches a peak at 6 weeks of age. It is proposed that the return to normal activity in the adult may be a consequence of increased activity of the caudate nucleus.
Scintillation Counting in Experiments on Parity Conservation

The scintillation counter has played a key role in many of the recent experiments pertaining to the conservation of parity and other symmetry principles in weak interactions. Although in many instances the development of the techniques of scintillation counting, per se, has been limited, the applications to which these techniques have been put are sufficiently novel to warrant a general review of these applications to the measurement of certain dynamical quantities in weak interactions. These quantities include the momentum and angular distribution of emission with respect to nuclear polarization direction of beta particles from polarized nuclei, the longitudinal polarization of these beta particles, the circular polarization and angular distribution of gamma rays following the beta decay process, and any correlations of these quantities with one another or with the nuclear recoil. Particular emphasis is placed on the scintillation spectroscopy of beta particles performed within the vacuum space of a cryostat where the temperature of the detector is of the order of 1°K and that of the source is below 0.01°K and where high magnetic fields are present.
Topological and segmental phylogenetic analyses of the anion exchanger (band 3) family of transporters

Eleven sequenced anion exchanger (AE; band 3) proteins, including five AE1, four AE2 and two AE3 proteins, comprise the anion exchanger family (AEF) of homologous proteins. Eliminating the rat and rabbit proteins that are nearly Identical to the corresponding mouse proteins, seven dissimilar members of this family were selected for study, divided into N-terminal, central and C-terminal segments (designated segments 0, 1 and 2, respectively) and analysed separately for sequence similarity and phylogenetic relatedness. Segments 0 are variable in length and sequence, are essentially lacking in some of the members of the AEF, and are not demonstrably homologous in other members of the family. All segments 1 and 2 are homologous, but they exhibit widely differing degrees of sequence divergence. Segments 2 are highly conserved in all AEF proteins. Segments 1 of the AE2 and AE3 proteins are as conserved as are segments 2, but segments 1 of the AE1 proteins have diverged from each other and from the AE2 and AE3 s...
The role of the macrophage in sentinel responses in intestinal immunity.

Purpose of review The purpose of this review is to highlight macrophages as central mediators of intestinal immune homeostasis and inflammation. Recent findings We review recent developments elucidating distinct phenotypic adaptations in intestinal macrophages that determine their functional role in a microbe-rich environment. The involvement of intestinal macrophages in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease is also discussed. Summary Intestinal macrophages represent the largest pool of tissue macrophages in the human body and a critical interface with the enteric microbiota. In normal physiology, luminal microbes breach the intestinal epithelial barrier and gain access to the lamina propria. Bacteria are efficiently phagocytosed by macrophages strategically located underneath the epithelium. The importance of functional adaptations of macrophages to perform their role in this unique environment is best illustrated by failure of these mechanisms during the development of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. Compared with monocytes or macrophages from any other organ, intestinal macrophages express different phenotypic markers, efficiently eradicate intracellular bacteria, but do not mount potent inflammatory responses. Converging human genetic and functional findings suggest that dysregulation of macrophage-specific immune responses against an otherwise harmless enteric microbiota are key factors in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease.
Affect in Dyadic Negotiation: A Model and Propositions

The topic of affect has been described as an important, but underexplored area of the social psychology of negotiation. In this paper we seek to advance thinking about affective processes in two-party negotiation through an integration and conceptual extension of existing research. We briefly review conceptualizations and operationalizations of affect, and highlight findings relevant to the social-cognitive underpinnings of negotiation. A dynamic model of affect in two-party negotiation analyzes the role of moods and emotions that bargainers bring to and evolve within the negotiation encounter. The model illustrates how affect states influence (and in some cases are influenced by) one's decision to negotiate, selection of an opponent, formulation of expectations and offers, choice of tactics used within bargaining, economic and social-cognitive outcomes, and proclivity to comply with settlement terms. We develop specific research propositions that describe these influences and discuss their implications for broader questions about the role of affect in bargaining.
Getting Ready for Blizzards: Preparation Levels in the Winter of 1977–1978

Abstract Preparation for blizzard conditions by respondents in Wood County, Ohio, in 1977–1978 was higher than expected; a majority of those who received warnings responded with further preparation, but planned little more preparation for the winter of 1978–1979. The best predictors of preparation were: place of residence, age, marital status, sex, and occupation. Variables best predicting plans to prepare for the approaching winter were: maintenance expense incurred as a result of the winter of 1977–1978, marital status, the number of family members at home during the blizzard, and place of residence. The respondents had a reasonably clear understanding of their actual situation; there was little evidence to suggest they were poorly prepared and unrealistic at the same time. Further examination of the theory of “bounded rationality” to determine conditions under which it is most useful is suggested.
NEUTRON DIFFRACTION DISSOCIATION AND COULOMB DISSOCIATION FROM NUCLEI

n4 A ~(p+ ~'-) +A where the (p~'-) pair is produced coherently off the nucleus A. A 0 ° neutron beam derived from a beryllium target in the external beam of the Brookhaven proton synchrotron was used. The mean effective momentum of the neutrons was about 23GeV/c. Forward-going (p~r-) pairs were detected in a wire spark-chamber spectrometer and the momentum and angles of each particle were determined. The observation of a sharp forward peak (of width appropriate to the nuclear radius) indicated that a large fraction of the events were produced coherently. Mass spectra for coherently produced events from carbon, copper and lead targets are presented. The lead data show a peak at low masses due to Coulomb production of the A(1236). The most striking result of the experiment is the lack of any appreciable production of the well-established I = ½ nucleon isobars.
Toward an explanation of the power law artifact: insights from response surface analysis.

The power law (y =ax −b) has been shown to provide a good description of data collected in a wide range of fields in psychology. R. B. Anderson and Tweney (1997) suggested that the model’s data-fitting success may in part be artifactual, caused by a number of factors, one of which is the use of improper data averaging methods. The present paper follows up on their work and explains causes of the power law artifact. A method for studying the geometric relations among responses generated by mathematical models is introduced that shows the artifact is a result of the combined contributions of three factors: arithmetic averaging of data that are generated from a nonlinear model in the presence of individual differences.
Freeze-Etching and Vapor Matrix Deposition for ToF-SIMS Imaging of Single Cells

Freeze-etching, the practice of removing excess surface water from a sample through sublimation into the vacuum of the analysis environment, has been extensively used in conjunction with electron microscopy. Here, we apply this technique to time-of-flight secondary-ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) imaging of cryogenically preserved single cells. By removing the excess water which condenses onto the sample in vacuo, a uniform surface is produced that is ideal for imaging by static SIMS. We demonstrate that the conditions employed to remove deposited water do not adversely affect cell morphology and do not redistribute molecules in the topmost surface layers. In addition, we found water can be controllably redeposited onto the sample at temperatures below −100 °C in vacuum. The redeposited water increases the ionization of characteristic fragments of biologically interesting molecules 2-fold without loss of spatial resolution. The utilization of freeze-etch methodology will increase the reliability of cryogenic sample preparations for SIMS analysis by providing greater control of the surface environment. Using these procedures, we have obtained high quality spectra with both atomic bombardment as well as C60+ cluster ion bombardment.
Antibiotic Concentration in Eggs from Hens on Chlortetracycline Supplemented Diets

Abstract INTRODUCTION THE use of antibiotics as an aid to accelerated growth and control of disease in poultry and other farm animals is well established. Since the use of antibiotics is so widespread, it is important to determine the amount of residual antibiotic in the meat and other food products derived from animals fed antibiotics. Broquist and Kohler (1953) reported no residual chlortetracycline in eggs from hens receiving 20 or 200 g. of chlortetracycline per ton, and 0.15–3.1 mcg. of chlortetracycline per egg for eggs from hens fed 2,000 g. of chlortetracycline per ton. Durbin, DiLorenzo, Randall and Wilner (1953) reported no residual chlortetracycline in eggs from hens fed 3, 10, 50, or 100 g. of chlortetracycline per ton. At the 200 and 2,000 g./ton level the highest concentration of antibiotic was found during the first week on chlortetracycline with successively decreasing concentration during the following two weeks. The decrease, percentage-wise, …
Combination Cytotoxic and Antiangiogenic Therapy in the Management of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

The majority of patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer respond to primary platinum/taxane-based combination chemotherapy. Unfortunately, recurrence is the rule rather than the exception in this clinical setting. In addition, multiple trials focused on the addition of a “third” cytotoxic drug to a platinum/taxane combination have failed to demonstrate any improvement in outcome. However, recent data reveal that addition of the antiangiogenic agent, bevacizumab, to either a primary platinum-based chemotherapy program or platinumbased therapy to manage recurrent disease can substantially improve time to subsequent disease progression and potentially favorably affect overall survival. This review discusses the rationale supporting the combination of cytotoxic and antiangiogenic therapy in advanced epithelial ovarian cancer, the existing evidence-based data supporting this strategy, and possible future research directions in this difficult malignancy.
Sodium intake as a determinant of urinary prostaglandin E2 excretion.

Abstract The effect of salt-loading on urinary prostaglandin E2(PGE2) was studied in the rat. PGE2 doubled after 4 days of gavage with 40 ml 0.9% saline. Control animals receiving 5% glucose or tap water did not show this increase. When rats were allowed ad lib saline, PGE2 increased after 2 weeks, but returned to normal at 5 weeks. This same phenomenon of increased PGE2 early in the course of salt-loading was also observed in Dahl salt-sensitive and salt-resistant rats fed an 8% salt diet. Inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis by meclofenamate or indomethacin did not attenuate the natriuretic effect of saline loading. We conclude: 1) Salt-related changes in PGE2 is a time-dependent phenomenon, and 2) PGE2 is not the natriuretic factor since levels normalize despite continued salt-loading, and natriuresis was unaffected by prostaglandin blockade.
An analysis of the convergence of the direct simulation Monte Carlo method

In this article, a rigorous framework for the analysis of the convergence of the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method is presented. It is applied to the simulation of two test cases: an axisymmetric jet at a Knudsen number of 0.01 and Mach number of 1 and a two-dimensional cylinder flow at a Knudsen of 0.05 and Mach 10. The rate of convergence of sampled quantities is found to be well predicted by an extended form of the Central Limit Theorem that takes into account the correlation of samples but requires the calculation of correlation spectra. A simplified analytical model that does not require correlation spectra is then constructed to model the effect of sample correlation. It is then used to obtain an a priori estimate of the convergence error.
Change to a Standardized Airway Clearance Protocol for Children With Bronchiolitis Leads to Improved Care

Nurses at a pediatric hospital identified the liberal utilization of deep nasopharyngeal (NP) suction as the primary airway clearance modality in young children with bronchiolitis. This invasive practice lacked supporting evidence and a standardized approach. Nurses created an interdisciplinary team to develop a less invasive airway clearance protocol. Data from 2years, both pre and post protocol implementation, were analyzed. An 11% decrease in deep NP suctioning resulted in improved or unchanged balancing measures and perceptions of quality of care.
An analysis of recent accounting and auditing failures in the United States on US accounting and auditing in China

Purpose – Seeks to analyze the impact of recent accounting and auditing failures in the USA on US accounting and auditing in China, focusing on the practice of guanxi – the networks of informal relationships and exchanges of favors that dominate all business and social activities in Chinese societies.Design/methodology/approach – Examines Chinese culture and uses historical precedents and parallels with Japanese culture to predict potential accounting and auditing problems.Findings – Determines that guanxi has the potential to undermine the high standards of auditor independence, audit quality, and ethical behavior to which auditors must adhere.Research limitations/implications – The review of Chinese culture and list of historical precedents is not exhaustive, and the standards are all US, which perhaps limits its usefulness elsewhere.Practical implications – A very useful source of information on Chinese business behavior as it impacts accountants and auditors.Originality/value – Enables policy makers a...
Ecce Homo Novus: snapshots, the ‘new man’, and iconic montage in the work of Santiago Alvarez

This essay explores Santiago Alvarez's iconic, montage-style filmmaking as it prefigured Modernity's accelerated crisis as produced by transnational capitalism and theorized years later by poststructuralists and postmodernists. Alvarez, one of the fathers of New Latin American Cinema, stands as an ever more relevant mentor for many contemporary young filmmakers in terms of his lessons about audience cultivation and politicized, immediate, innovative image-making in a context of what he termed ‘accelerated underdevelopment’. His aesthetic of limited resources and limited time and his early emphasis on the tactless camera eye has become a veritable weapon for change for many filmmakers in Latin America's latest decade, which saw successive economic crises, the failure of neoliberal policies, and a rise in left wing governments.
MEGF10 and MEGF11 mediate homotypic interactions required for mosaic spacing of retinal neurons

In many parts of the nervous system, neuronal somata display orderly spatial arrangements. In the retina, neurons of numerous individual subtypes form regular arrays called mosaics: they are less likely to be near neighbours of the same subtype than would occur by chance, resulting in 'exclusion zones' that separate them. Mosaic arrangements provide a mechanism to distribute each cell type evenly across the retina, ensuring that all parts of the visual field have access to a full set of processing elements. Remarkably, mosaics are independent of each other: although a neuron of one subtype is unlikely to be adjacent to another of the same subtype, there is no restriction on its spatial relationship to neighbouring neurons of other subtypes. This independence has led to the hypothesis that molecular cues expressed by specific subtypes pattern mosaics by mediating homotypic (within-subtype) short-range repulsive interactions. So far, however, no molecules have been identified that show such activity, so this hypothesis remains untested. Here we demonstrate in mouse that two related transmembrane proteins, MEGF10 and MEGF11, have critical roles in the formation of mosaics by two retinal interneuron subtypes, starburst amacrine cells and horizontal cells. MEGF10 and 11 and their invertebrate relatives Caenorhabditis elegans CED-1 and Drosophila Draper have hitherto been studied primarily as receptors necessary for engulfment of debris following apoptosis or axonal injury. Our results demonstrate that members of this gene family can also serve as subtype-specific ligands that pattern neuronal arrays.
Winning fights elevates testosterone levels in California mice and enhances future ability to win fights

The 'winner effect' has been studied in a variety of species, but only rarely in mammals. We compared effects of winning three, two, one, or zero resident-intruder encounters on the likelihood of winning a subsequent aggressive encounter in the California mouse (Peromyscus californicus). During the training phase, we ensured that resident males won all encounters by staging contests with mildly sedated, smaller intruders. During the test phase, the resident male encountered an unfamiliar, more evenly matched intruder that had experience winning an encounter and was larger than the resident. Testosterone (T) plasma levels significantly increased after the final test when they had experienced two prior winning encounters, and the probability of winning a future encounter increased significantly after three prior wins independent of intrinsic fighting ability. We hypothesize a 'winner-challenge' effect in which increased T levels serve to reinforce the winner effect in male California mice.
Accuracy of ultrasound-guided marking of the cricothyroid membrane before simulated failed intubation

Abstract Background Interest in the use of dynamic ultrasound (US) for cricothyrotomy has sparked a debate regarding its applicability in a crash airway situation. Ultrasound-guided marking of the cricothyroid membrane (CTM) as a preintubation procedure may be better than the dynamic method. No prior study has evaluated the accuracy of using US to premark the CTM before attempted intubation. Objectives To determine the feasibility of US-guided marking of the CTM before attempted simulated intubation so that this marking may be used as the location for the initial incision after failed intubation. Methods Resident and attending physicians participated. Ultrasound was used to identify and mark the CTM with an invisible pen. Failed intubation was simulated, and the same operator then identified the CTM with US and marked the location with a black pen. The difference in the preintervention and postintervention markings was measured in millimeters. The length of the CTM was also measured as a reference. Results Twenty-three models and operators were used for data collection. The average CTM sagittal length was 13.9 mm (95% confidence interval [CI], 13.4-14.4). The average sagittal and axial differences before and after simulated intubation were found to be 0.91 mm (95% CI, 0.35-1.47) and 1.04 mm (95% CI, 0.38-1.7), respectively. The sagittal variability is 1/15 the total length of the CTM. Conclusions Ultrasound marking of the CTM of healthy volunteers before simulated intubation accurately identifies the CTM after neck manipulation expected during a failed intubation. Further research is indicated to determine the clinical applicability of this model.
Effect of ocular transverse chromatic aberration on detection acuity for peripheral vision

Purpose We examined the effect of transverse chromatic aberration (TCA) on detection acuity for white-light interference fringes seen in Maxwellian view at various orientations and locations in the visual field. Methods A circular patch (3.5° diameter, 3.2 log Trolands) of nominally high-contrast fringes was produced on the retina by a commercial instrument (the Lotmar Visometer, Haag Streit) mounted on a gimbal for controlled positioning of the stimulus in the visual field from 0° to 35° eccentricity. Results Detection acuity for white light fringes for all meridians and eccentricities ≥15° was maximum when fringes were oriented parallel to the visual meridian line. This meridional effect disappeared when a narrow-band filter was used to eliminate TCA. The meridional effect also disappeared when the interferometric stimulator was displaced laterally to align the instrument with the eye's local achromatic axis. Conclusions Modelling confirmed that TCA is the major factor responsible for white-light meridional bias, with minor contribution arising from higher-order monochromatic aberrations and neural factors.
Correlates of community violence exposure in hospitalized adolescents.

To examine psychological and behavioral correlates of community violence exposure in psychiatrically hospitalized adolescents, 89 inpatients were administered a battery of psychometrically well-established self-report instruments. Violence exposure was assessed using the Child's Exposure to Violence Checklist (CEVC). Half of the patients reported exposure to multiple incidents violence in their community (52%) and home (53%). Sixty-one percent were victims of physical assault, and 39% were victims of sexual assault. Patients who had witnessed community violence reported significantly more post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, drug use, and violence potential than patients without a history of witnessing community violence. Patients exposed to community violence were also more likely to be the victim of childhood maltreatment, as well as a perpetrator of violence. In conclusion, traumatization via exposure to community violence may serve as one important determinant in the development of mixed internalizing and externalizing psychopathology in adolescent inpatients, thus necessitating accurate assessment and treatment planning.
Threshold elevation following adaptation to coloured gratings.

Abstract In two experiments, luminance thresholds were measured for horizontal or vertical gratings of various wavelengths, following adaptation to gratings which were of the same or different orientation, and of the same or different wavelength. In the first experiment, in which the adaptation period was relatively brief, there was a small orientation-specific threshold elevation effect but only minimal evidence that this was wavelength specific. In the second experiment, which involved prolonged adaptation, there was a large orientation-specific threshold elevation but no evidence for wavelength specificity.
Empirical modeling of vehicle fuel economy based on historical data

This paper addresses modeling and predicting vehicle fuel economy based on simple vehicle characteristics. The models are identified using a historical vehicle fuel economy data set. First, the use of least squares regression analysis is pursued, and a mathematical model is created that is capable of predicting highway fuel economy based on six vehicle characteristics: engine displacement volume, vehicle maximum power, vehicle maximum torque, vehicle weight, vehicle wheelbase, and vehicle cross sectional area. Then neural network models are developed and shown to achieve higher accuracy as compared to the regression models, with 70 percent of the data in the validation data set predicted within 2 mpg. Furthermore, we demonstrate that by employing a hybrid architecture, where vehicles are first clustered and then separate models are developed for vehicle clusters, the model accuracy can be improved further.
Managing ski resorts: the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) of the United States’ 2001 and 2002 Annual Progress Reports on the Environmental Charter and the reaction from conservations groups

Protecting scenic values, optimizing efficient use of water for snowmaking, planning, designing and constructing facilities and lifts in an environmentally sensitive manner, are some of the areas in which ski resorts have made substantial improvement since implementing the Environmental Principles, according to NSAA in their 2002 annual report. Michael Berry, NSAA’s president, proudly indicates that the Association is succeeding in taking collective steps toward proactive environmental stewardship. However, when the Charter was developed in June 2000, several issues regarding the voluntary nature of the principles of the Charter and the impact it would have on ski operations and ultimately, the environment were raised by special interests groups in the United States, such as the Colorado Wild Organization and the Ski Area Citizens’ Coalition among others. Such organizations aim to halt the environmentally harmful or real estate driven aspects of ski area expansions and ensure that ski area management deci...
Sociopsychological obstacles to L-dopa therapy that may limit effectiveness in parkinsonism.

: Chronic illness produces changes in patients' self-conceptions and social relationships which may impair their level of functioning. L-dopa therapy is particularly relevant to patients ill for some time with a disease believed by themselves and their associates to be chronic. In parkinsonian patients, therefore, the effect of L-dopa on their level of functioning, as distinct from their symptoms, is likely to be inhibited by some of the social and psychological concomitants of chronic illness. The literature on these concomitants and on recovery from chronic illness indicates that functional recovery will be impeded if: 1) the patient considers himself to be impaired, devalued and stigmatized, and 2) his social environment is characterized by extreme social isolation or cohesion, a pessimistic prognosis on the part of others, or an illness-induced family restructuring which the relatives are loath to reverse.
Undergraduates' Evaluations of Developmental Claims and Their Identification of Information Sources

Students in a large human development course rated the accuracy of 50 developmental claims. Half of the claims were specifically embedded in the course content, but the remaining claims were not addressed in the course. Students also identified the major information source for each developmental claim rated. From the beginning to the end of the course, students (especially high performers) improved in evaluating the accuracy of course-related developmental claims and increasingly attributed their ratings of these claims to professional information sources. Our study underscores the importance of sensitizing students to the role of research evidence in judging the credibility of claims in general education courses.
Water relations and photosynthesis of a barrel cactus, Ferocactus acanthodes, in the Colorado desert.

The structural characteristics, water relations, and photosynthesis of Ferocactus acanthodes (Lemaire) Britton and Rose, a barrel cactus exhibiting Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM), were examined in its native habitat in the western Colorado desert. Water storage in its succulent stem permitted nighttime stomatal opening ot continue for about 40 days after the soil water potential became less than that of the stem, a period whe the plant would be unable to extract water from the soil. After 7 months of drought and consequent unreplenished water loss from a plant, diurnal stomatal activity was not observed and the stem osmotic pressure was 6.4 bars, more than double the value measured during wet periods with nighttime stomatal opening. F. acanthodes had a shallow root system (mean depth of 8 cm) which responded within 24 h to rainfall. When the nocturnal stem surface temperature was raised from 8.0° C to 35.0° C, the stomatal resistance increased 4-fold, indicating that cool nighttime temperatures are advantageous for gas exchange by F. acanthodes. Moreover, the optimal temperature for CO2 uptake in the dark was only 12.6° C. CO2 uptake at night became maximal for 3.0 mEinsteins cm-2 of photosynthetically active radiation incident during the preceding day, and the minimum number of incident quanta absorbed per CO2 fixed was 68. The transpiration ratio (mass of water transpired/mass of CO2 fixed) had the relatively low value of 70 for an entire year, consistent with values obtained for other CAM plants. The total amount of water annually diverted to the floral structures was about 6% of the stem wet weight. The annual growth increment estimated from the net CO2 assimilation corresponded to about 10% of the stem mass for barrel cacti 34 cm tall, in agreement with measured dimension changes, and indicated that such plants were about 26 years old.