cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Metabolism of isolated adipose tissue: a summary

The sections in this article are: 1 Preparations Used 2 Pathways of Metabolism 3 Mechanisms of Metabolic Control 3.1 Control of Glucose Access to Cellular Metabolism 3.2 Control of the Enzymatic Mechanisms of Glyceride Breakdown 4 Metabolic States Associated with Altered Metabolism of Adipose Tissue
Ecological Disaster or the Limits of Observation? Reconciling Modern Declines with the Long‐Term Dynamics of Whitebark Pine Communities

The history of whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) forests over the past century exemplifies modern environmental change and the particular challenges faced in reconciling the scales of human observation with long-term ecological changes. A number of factors are implicated in driving observed declines in whitebark pine populations including fire suppression, climate change, the exotic pathogen Cronartium ribicola and associated white pine blister rust, and mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae) outbreaks, yet the actual effects of these factors vary widely across the range of whitebark pine that encompasses considerable environmental heterogeneity. Furthermore, the specific effects of these agents are difficult to isolate or predict in a forest type where disturbance regimes and succession operate on scales of centuries rather than decades. The resulting situation is highly complex, yet the urgency for restoration in some areas is leading to generalizations elsewhere that do not always account for the diversity of forests considered as whitebark pine communities. Our research reviews the current state of knowledge on the biogeography, disturbance regimes, and mechanisms of decline in whitebark pine communities. We then use an expanded temporal perspective based on dendroecological case studies to critically assess the potential effects of fire suppression in whitebark pine communities and the ecological relationship between whitebark pine and mountain pine beetle. Based on our findings, it appears that fire suppression is not the ubiquitous factor leading to whitebark pine declines, as often implicated in the published literature, and that whitebark pine may be well adapted to recover following mountain pine beetle outbreaks in areas that have not been impacted too severely from white pine blister rust.
Effects of lactation and nursing on tissue concentrations of polybrominated biphenyls and on microsomal enzyme activity in mammary gland and liver in maternal rats.

Abstract Redistribution of polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) during the recovery period following lactation resulted in concentrations of PBBs that were higher in mammary gland and lower in liver and fat than at the end of lactation. Hepatic arylhydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) and epoxide hydrolase (EH) activities were higher in PBB-treated rats during lactation than in the recovery period. However, transition from lactating to dry state had no effect on activity of mammary gland AHH in rats treated with PBBs. Microsomal enzyme activity and concentrations of PBBs in mammary gland and liver were reduced by nursing a second litter. Although redistribution and excretion of PBBs resulted in alterations in microsomal enzyme activity, all rats exposed to 100 ppm PBBs had microsomal enzyme activity in liver and mammary gland that was higher than that in controls. Persistent stimulation of mammary gland and hepatic microsomal enyzmes while mothers are exposed to PBBs may affect not only mothers and offspring suckling but subsequent progeny as well.
The effect of inorganic phosphate on sodium fluxes in dog red blood cells

Abstract The effect of extracellular inorganic phosphate on Na + movements in dog red blood cells has been studied. As the phosphate concentration is increased from 0 to 30 mM, Na + efflux increases by 2- to 3-fold and Na + influx increases approximately 2-fold. This enhancement of Na + fluxes by phosphate can be prevented by the addition of iodoacetate (1 mM), an inhibitor of glycolysis, or 4-acetamido-4′-iso-thiocyantostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (0.01 mM), which blocks anion transport, to the medium. The increases in Na + movements are not caused by changes in cell volumes. These results suggest that phosphate must enter the cell to enhance Na + fluxes and that the mechanism of action may be via a stimulatory effect on glycolysis.
Quantitative discourse psychology

Discourse psychologists investigate the cognitive representations, procedures, and processes that transpire in the human mind when discourse is comprehend and produced. Quantitative discourse psychologists build sophisticated computational, statistical, and mathematical models that simulate these mechanisms. We believe that quantitative discourse psychologists will be important players in the field of discourse processing in future years. The practice of quantitative discourse psychology is illustrated in five research projects that we have conducted, all of which examined naturalistic discourse. These projects investigated reading time, inference generation, the construction of multiple agents (i.e., narrators, characters) in literary short stories, tutorial dialogue, and dialogue patterns in two‐party conversations. There was a major conceptual advance in each of these projects when we adopted an appropriate quantitative approach. The fact that discourse psychologists frequently investigate the processi...
Detection of Spectral Overlap Interference in ICP-AES with an Empirical Linewidth Ratio Technique

ICP-AES line intensity data were fitted to a minimum-curvature smooth curve generated with the aid of a cubic semispline algorithm. These spline-fitted curves were used to obtain linewidth ratios which can provide accurate indication of spectral overlap with the use of only sample and standard spectra.
The influence of historical and contemporary landscape variables on the spatial genetic structure of the rainbow darter (Etheostoma caeruleum) in tributaries of the upper Mississippi River

Evaluating spatial genetic patterns is an important method to help inform management efforts for the conservation of native fishes. However, the present study demonstrates that it is vital to consider life history, distribution, and historical processes when interpreting the spatial distribution of genetic diversity. This study examined genetic variation in populations of the Rainbow Darter, Etheostoma caeruleum, in tributaries of the upper Mississippi River in northeast Iowa in order to understand the influence of landscape alteration at multiple temporal scales. The diversity and distribution of fishes in this region are influenced by historical geologic and climatic events, and recent, intensive human activities, making this an excellent site for an investigation of this type. Landscape genetic analyses of eight microsatellite loci from 14 localities detected a single genetic population. The amount of genetic diversity observed within localities and drainages was high, but the distribution of genetic variation was almost uniform across the study area. There was no evidence of population subdivision at any spatial scale. Based on what is known about the life history of the Rainbow Darter and the geological history of the region, the best explanation for these results is that historical processes had a more pronounced influence on the observed genetic variation than contemporary impacts. Specifically, the genetic signature supports a conclusion of population expansion into the region following the retreat of glacial advances during the Pleistocene.
The Relationship Between Type I and Type II Income Multipliers in an Input-Output Model

The constant that relates the Type I and Type II income multipliers in an input-output model is proven to be exactly the consump tion multiplier for the household sector, and additional multiplier rela tionships between the open and closed models are derived.
An autocorrelation analysis of genetic variation due to lineal fission in social groups of rhesus macaques

Empirical analyses and models of the lineal effects of fission indicate that considerable genetic differentiation may occur at the time of group formation, thus confusing the usual positive relationship between historical affiliation and genetic differentiation. We analyze the effects of fission pattern on variation in highly heritable morphological traits among eight social groups on Cayo Santiago. The analysis is performed using general network autocorrelation methods that quantitatively and directly measure the amount of variation in social group mean morphology that can be explained by fission. All of the fission autocorrelation coefficients are strongly negative, indicating that groups most recently formed by fission are most dissimilar. Also, most of the variation between groups can be explained by the fission pattern, indicating that lineal fission is the most important process generating between-group variation on Cayo Santiago.
Analytical Solutions to the Collection Growth Equation: Comparison with Approximate Methods and Application to Cloud Microphysics Parameterization Schemes

Abstract A closed form solution for the collection growth equation as used in bulk microphysical parameterizations is derived. Although the general form is mathematically complex, it can serve as a benchmark for testing a variety of approximations. Two special cases that can immediately be implemented in existing cloud models are also presented. This solution is used to evaluate two commonly used approximations. The effect of the selection of different basis functions is also investigated.
Activation kinetics and off-target effects of thymus-initiated cre transgenes.

The bacteriophage enzyme Cre is a site-specific recombinase widely used to delete loxP-flanked DNA sequences in lineage-specific fashion. Several mouse lines that direct Cre expression to lymphoid progenitors in the thymus have been established, but a side-by-side comparison of when they first become active, and/or their relative efficiency at various developmental stages, has been lacking. In this study, we evaluated these in four common Cre transgenic strains with thymus-initiated promoters (Lck, Cd2, or Cd4). We found that while all of them eventually labeled nearly all thymocytes, their kinetics were dramatically different, and other than Cd4[Cre], did not faithfully recapitulate the expression pattern of the corresponding endogenous gene. Perhaps even more importantly, while thymuses from some strains compared favorably to thymuses from control (Cre-negative) mice, we found that Cre expression could also result in off-target effects, including moderate to severe decreases in thymic cellularity. These effects occurred in the absence of loxP-flanked DNA target genes, and were dose and copy number dependent. Loss of cellularity was attributable to a specific decrease in CD4+8+ immature cells, and corresponds to an increased rate of programmed cell death. In addition to a comprehensive analysis of activation kinetics in thymus-initiated Cre transgenes, our data show that Cre is toxic to CD4+8+ cells in a dose-dependent fashion, and emphasize that the choice of thymus-initiated Cre strain is critically important for minimizing off-target effects of Cre.
Lymphocyte fluorescent profiles (LFP): A possible screening technique in neoplasia

A technique involving fluorescent protein staining and microfluorometry has been developed for measuring the lymphocyte fluorescent profile (LFP) of peripheral blood lymphocytes. In contrast to normal humans who display a regular bell-shaped curve, the profile from patients with cancer is irregular, showing a bimodal distribution of fluorescence, with a significant population of cells fluorescing at a higher relative intensity. It is suggested that this elevation in protein concentration is due to an immune response to the presence of a neoplasm, and thus this technique may prove to be a useful indicator of malignancy.
Effects of alamethicin on hormonal activation of renal adenylate cyclase

Abstract The effects of the peptide antibiotic, alamethicin, on hormonally stimulated adenylate cyclase were studied in the rat kidney. In the medullary 100,000 g fraction, antidiuretic hormone-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity was observed only in the presence of alamethicin. Alamethicin augmented the stimulatory effect of parathyroid hormone in the cortical 100,000 g fraction. Lubrol PX solubilized adenylate cyclase activity but, in contrast to alamethicin, did not increase PTH stimulation of adenylate cyclase. Alamethicin had little effect in 1,000 g fractions. Therefore, the effects of this antibiotic do not appear to be due to direct stimulation of adenylate cyclase. In addition, the results cannot be explained by inhibition of phosphodiesterase by alamethicin. Alamethicin is known to increase ionic conductance in membranes by the formation of channels. The effects of alamethicin on adenylate cyclase in the 100,000 g fraction could be due to the formation of channels which increase the permeability of vesicles and thereby increase accessibility to substrate and/or hormones. Different physiochemical properties of renal cortical and medullary plasma membranes are suggested by differences observed in the responsiveness of adenylate cyclase to hormones and to alamethicin. The presence of latent antidiuretic hormone-stimulated adenylate cyclase was observed in the outer medullary 100,000 g fraction.
The tumor microenvironment

The concept of the tumor microenvironment, developed from Paget’s “seed and soil” theory is made up of the cancer cells, the stromal tissue, and the extracellular matrix. In this mini-review, each of the components of this dynamic network will be examined. We will show that there are a multitude of complex interactions and a host of molecules involved in tumorogenesis and metastasis. We will further illustrate this notion with examples from the tumor microenvironment of breast cancer. Lastly, we conclude with thoughts about how this will influence the surgical field with examples of therapeutic agents already in use that target aspects of this microenvironment.
Ultrastructural and biochemical analyses of isolated basement membranes from kidney glomeruli and tubules and brain and retinal microvessels.

We have developed a simple, versatile, and nondisruptive method for isolating basement membranes (BM) from several organ subfractions. In the past, investigators have employed sonication as an almost universal step in the isolation and purification of BM. This procedure, however, frequently results in cellular contamination and fragmentation of the starting material. Our method relies on the selective solubilization of cell membranes, intracellular protein, and plasma proteins with the detergents Triton X-100 and deoxycholate. This technique yields a preparation of BM which is ultrastructurally intact, nonfragmented, and which retains its histoarchitectural relationships. Basement membrane isolated from kidney glomeruli and tubules and brain and retinal microvessels show continuous sheets, free of cellular debris. Interstitial collagens are virtually excluded. The BM from different sources exhibit a wide variation in thickness and morphology emphasizing a nonunitary concept of BM. In all cases, however, isolated BM are ultrastructurally indistinguishable from their in vivo counterparts. Amino acid and carbohydrate analyses of previously well-characterized BM (lens capsule and glomerular BM) show that following isolation by detergents their chemical compositions compare favorably with reported values. Other sources of BM show similar compositions with high contents of glycine, hydroxyproline, and glutamic acid. All BM show nearly equimolar amounts of glucose and galactose while mannose, fucose, and hexosamines are present in smaller quantities. We conclude that our method of BM isolation may be of particular value where studies of both the fine structure and chemical composition of BM are to be examined.
Failure of Newborn Rat to Respond to Hypoxia with Increased Erythropoiesis.

SummarySuckling rats, between the age of 4 to 16 days, do not respond to hypoxia with an increased erythropoiesis as judged by increased hematocrit, hemoglobin and red cell volume.
Replication and assembly of VSV nucleocapsids: Protein association with RNPs and the effects of cycloheximide on replication

Abstract The proteins rapidly associated with VSV ribonucleoprotein complexes were found to be L, NS, and N; this association rendered nascent replicating RNA molecules resistant to RNase. Treatment of VSV-infected cells with cycloheximide and examination of the proteins associated with the RNPs showed that there was a pool of L, NS, and N that perhaps allowed replication to continue for approximately 20 min after cessation of protein synthesis.
Dealing with faulty measurements in WLAN indoor positioning

Recently indoor positioning methods based on WLAN signal measurements gained popularity because of high localization accuracy. These methods exploit radio maps obtained from wireless signal measurement surveys on location grids. Measurement sets from various WLAN access points are called fingerprints and characterize locations where the measurements are collected. As WLAN environments do not ensure continuous measurements availability, and faulty or rogue access points may unexpectedly change surveyed signal patterns, resiliency becomes an important issue to address using algorithmic methods. This paper first proposes a general fault model that integrates several reported models. Then performance degradations due to faults are studied for conventional fingerprinting methods. Two improvements to positioning systems are proposed for mitigating the impact of faulty measurements. The first improvement takes into account the intermittent unavailability of AP samples when calculating kNN. The second improvement allows the system to switch from a high accuracy method that works only under normal conditions, to a more resilient method whenever a high number of faults are suspected. Performance figures are provided for positioning with data surveyed from a real environment, to which varying amounts of faults have been introduced artificially.
Timing and duration of developmental nicotine exposure contribute to attenuation of the tadpole hypercapnic neuroventilatory response.

The ability for air-breathing vertebrates to adjust ventilation in response to increased CO2 (hypercapnia) is fundamental to maintaining pH homeostasis. Developmental nicotine exposure has been shown to impair tadpole neuroventilatory responses to hypercapnia following 8–12 weeks of exposure. It is not clear, however, to what extent the timing of exposure during development and/or the duration over which the exposure takes place contribute to this impairment. Here, tadpoles were exposed to 30 μg/L of nicotine for 3- or 10-week durations, either early or late in tadpole development. Correlates of tadpole lung neuroventilation were monitored during normocapnic (1.5% CO2) and hypercapnic (5% CO2) conditions of isolated brainstems. Preparations derived from early metamorphic tadpoles failed to increase lung neuroventilation in response to hypercapnia whether they had been exposed to nicotine for 3 or 10 weeks. Preparations derived from late metamorphic tadpoles failed to respond to hypercapnia after being exposed to nicotine for 10 weeks. These results suggest that both the developmental timing and duration of exposure are important when considering nicotine's effect on the hypercapnic neuroventilatory response. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 2009
Effects of Compressed Speech on Learner Anxiety.

Drive Theory posits that conditioned anxiety experienced by learners is sufficient to cause them to “block” or to “choke up” when confronted with complex learning tasks. Moreover, if anxiety is elicited during instructional episodes, it may become a conditioned response, undermining efforts to develop positive affect toward specific subject matter or to the mode of presentation. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine whether instruction via compressed speech produces anxiety in listeners. Results indicate that anxiety increases as presentation rate increases.
Bounds for element size in a variable stiffness cohesive finite element model

The cohesive finite element method (CFEM) allows explicit modelling of fracture processes. One form of CFEM models integrates cohesive surfaces along all finite element boundaries, facilitating the explicit resolution of arbitrary fracture paths and fracture patterns. This framework also permits explicit account of arbitrary microstructures with multiple length scales, allowing the effects of material heterogeneity, phase morphology, phase size and phase distribution to be quantified. However, use of this form of CFEM with cohesive traction–separation laws with finite initial stiffness imposes two competing requirements on the finite element size. On one hand, an upper bound is needed to ensure that fields within crack-tip cohesive zones are accurately described. On the other hand, a lower bound is also required to ensure that the discrete model closely approximates the physical problem at hand. Both issues are analysed in this paper within the context of fracture in multi-phase composite microstructures and a variable stiffness bilinear cohesive model. The resulting criterion for solution convergence is given for meshes with uniform, cross-triangle elements. A series of calculations is carried out to illustrate the issues discussed and to verify the criterion given. These simulations concern dynamic crack growth in an Al2O3 ceramic and in an Al2O3/TiB2 ceramic composite whose phases are modelled as being hyperelastic in constitutive behaviour. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self-administration of (+)-methamphetamine and (+)-pseudoephedrine, alone and combined, by rhesus monkeys

(+)-Methamphetamine (MA) is an illicit psychostimulant that can be synthesized from the nonprescription nasal decongestant, (+)-pseudoephedrine (PE). While MA is widely abused, PE appears to have little or no abuse liability in currently available formulations. However, PE produces centrally-mediated dopaminergic effects that are linked to the reinforcing effects of MA and other illicit psychostimulants and has been reported to function as a positive reinforcer in non-human primates. There has yet to be an assessment of the relative reinforcing effects of MA and PE. Therefore, the current study compared the reinforcing potency and strength of MA and PE, alone and combined, in four rhesus monkeys that were allowed to self-administer MA (0.003-0.3 mg/kg/inj), PE (0.1-3.0 mg/kg/inj), or combinations of the two under a progressive-ratio schedule of reinforcement. (+)-Methamphetamine functioned as a positive reinforcer in a dose-dependent manner. (+)-Pseudoephedrine also functioned as a positive reinforcer, but was less potent than MA. There were no differences in maximum injections between MA, PE, or any of the combinations of the two. Dose-addition analysis and the interaction index indicated that combinations of PE and MA were either additive or sub-additive in their reinforcing effects. These results suggest that, while MA is a more potent reinforcer than PE, the two drugs are comparable in terms of reinforcing strength. However, MA and PE do not appear to interact in a manner that enhances their relative reinforcing effects.
Rodent brain and heart catecholamine levels are altered by different models of copper deficiency.

Abstract Limiting dopamine β-monooxygenase results in lower norepinephrine (NE) and higher dopamine (DA) concentrations in copper-deficient (Cu−) tissues compared to copper-adequate (Cu+) tissues. Mice and rat offspring were compared to determine the effect of differences in dietary copper (Cu) deficiency started during gestation or lactation on catecholamine, NE and DA, content in brain and heart. Holtzman rat and Hsd:ICR (CD-1) outbred albino mouse dams were fed a Cu− diet and drank deionized water or Cu supplemented water. Offspring were sampled at time points between postnatal ages 12 and 27. For both rat and mouse Cu− tissue, NE and DA changes were greater at later ages. Though Cu restriction began earlier in rats than mice in the gestational model, brain NE reduction was more severe in Cu− mice than Cu− rats. Cardiac NE reduction was similar in Cu− rodents in the gestation models. In the lactation model, mouse catecholamines were altered more than rat catecholamines. Furthermore, following lactational Cu deficiency Cu− mice were anemic and exhibited cardiac hypertrophy, Cu− rats displayed neither phenotype. Within a species, changes were more severe and proportional to the length of Cu deprivation. Lactational Cu deficiency in mice had greater consequences than in rats.
Higgs-boson decays at the superconducting super collider

Distributions in cos${\ensuremath{\theta}}_{\mathrm{lab}}$, rapidity, energy, and ${p}_{T}$ for the intermediate vector bosons resulting from p+p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}(H\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${W}^{+}$${W}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$,${Z}^{0}$${Z}^{0}$)+X and p+p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}(${W}^{+}$${W}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$,${W}^{+}$${Z}^{0}$+${W}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$Z $^{0}$,${Z}^{0}$${Z}^{0}$)+X at \ensuremath{\surd}s =40 TeV are compared for Higgs-boson masses of 5${m}_{W}$ and 7${m}_{W}$. The Higgs-boson-decay signal should be visible in the energy and ${p}_{T}$ distributions of the vector bosons.
Sex, Sex-Role, Facial Attractiveness, Social Self-Esteem and Interest in Clothing

This study investigated the relationships among sex, sex-role, perceived facial attractiveness, social self-esteem, and interest in clothing. Women, compared to men, indicated greater interest in c...
Diffusion of Vitamin E in Ultra-high Molecular Weight Polyethylene

Vitamin E-doped, radiation crosslinked ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is developed as an alternate oxidation and wear resistant bearing surface in joint arthroplasty. We analyzed the diffusion behavior of vitamin E through UHMWPE and predicted penetration depth following doping with vitamin E and subsequent homogenization in inert gas used to penetrate implant components with vitamin E. Crosslinked UHMWPE (65- and 100-kGy irradiation) had higher activation energy and lower diffusion coefficients than uncrosslinked UHMWPE, but there were only slight differences in vitamin E profiles and penetration depth between the two doses. By using homogenization in inert gas below the melting point of the polymer following doping in pure vitamin E, the surface concentration of vitamin E was decreased and vitamin E stabilization was achieved throughout a desired thickness. We developed an analytical model based on Fickian theory that closely predicted vitamin E concentration as a function of depth following doping and homogenization.
Baseball and softball injuries

Baseball and softball injuries can be a result of both acute and overuse injuries. Soft tissue injuries include contusions, abrasions, and lacerations. Return to play is allowed when risk of further injury is minimized. Common shoulder injuries include those to the rotator cuff, biceps tendon, and glenoid labrum. Elbow injuries are common in baseball and softball and include medial epicondylitis, ulnar collateral ligament injury, and osteochondritis dissecans. Typically conservative treatment with relative rest, medication, and a rehabilitation program will allow return to play. Surgical intervention may be needed for certain injuries or conservative treatment failure.
Possible mechanisms involved in the release and modulation of release of neuroactive agents.

Although it is almost universally assumed that exocytosis is the mechanism whereby the release of neuroactive agents is effected, a critical examination of the evidence reveals that other mechanisms may be operative. Possibilities involving gating mechanisms include Na+, K+-ATPase, protein phosphorylation, protein carboxymethylation, the “phosphatidyl inositol effect” and lipid transmethylation. Because of the speed of neurotransmitter release, the more leisurely biochemical cascades are more likely referable to modulation of release rather than functioning in the release process itself.
A 94-GHz Doppler Radar for Cloud Observations

Abstract A Doppler radar operating at 3.2 mm wavelength was designed and assembled primarily for observation of clouds and precipitation. Phase detection of the radar signals which is required for Doppler operation is implemented through the use of a coherent oscillator phase locked on the transmitter pulse and used as a reference in the phase detector. The radar and associated signal processing techniques such as signal integrator and signal autocovariance estimator are discussed along with the Doppler performance of the radar. Also presented are the results of observation of ice and water clouds and also precipitation which show the excellent Doppler capabilities of the radar in terms of accuracy of the mean Doppler and Doppler spectrum width.
Ghost of the financing gap: an overlooked aspect of the aid debate

In the decades-old intense debate on foreign aid, a great deal has been said about qualitative aspects of aid and aid-effectiveness (i.e. fungibility, among other things). The latest landmark in the debate was the World Bank publication Assessing Aid: What Works, What Doesn't, and Why, which generated a new wave of controversy about foreign aid and policy conditionality. Much of the recent debate has focused on the qualitative aspects of the aid-growth relationship and the role of ‘good’ policies. However, little attention had been paid so far to some important quantitative aspects. The present study draws attention to this often overlooked aspect of the aid debate to demonstrate that the level of aid requirements of a country is an equally important and integral part of aid and aid-effectiveness. Estimation of the magnitude of external assistance requirements of countries used by international financial institutions is compared with an alternative model, the so-called ‘Balance of Payments Constrained Growth Model’ (based on the Harrod trade multiplier). It is revealed that the latter is not a real alternative as it is an incomplete model. More importantly, it is shown that international financial institutions use these quantitative frameworks in a very flexible and pragmatic way to carry on a meaningful policy dialogue with both donors and recipient countries, which has an important bearing on overall aid and aid-effectiveness. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design and performance considerations for perforated semiconductor thermal-neutron detectors

Abstract Perforated silicon structures backfilled with either B 10 or LiF 6 are presently under construction as high efficiency thermal-neutron detectors. Although many perforated structures are possible, there are three fundamental designs that are studied in the present work, namely (a) cylindrical perforations where holes are filled with neutron reactive material, (b) pillar configurations where semiconductor pillars are surrounded by neutron reactive material, and (c) trench structures where the trenches are filled with neutron reactive material. From results of Monte Carlo simulations, it is found that the trench structure affords the best efficiencies, exceeding 20% using conservative geometries, and over 35% for more aggressive structures. Simulated spectroscopic features and manufacturing constraints are presented and discussed.
Transverse-and zero-field μSR investigation of magnetism and superconductivity in (Y1−xPr x )Ba2Cu3O7

Zero-field muon-spin-rotation (μSR) measurements on (Y1−xPrx)Ba2Cu3O7 [x=1.0, 0.8, 0.6, and 0.54] show evidence for antiferromagnetic ordering of the Cu moments within the Cu−O planes, with Neel temperatures 285, 220, 35. 30 and 20 K, respectively. Forx=1.0 the local muon magnetic field is ≈16 mT, but decreases to ≈12 mT at 17K, due to additional magnetic ordering. The zero-field data, in conjunction with transport data, allow construction of a complete phase diagram for this system. Transverse-field (1 kOe) μSR data forx=0.2 (Tc=75 K) show that the muon depolarization is determined primarily by the Cu nuclear moments forT>Tc, and by the vortex state forT<Tc. Fitting the superconducting-state data to a BCS model yields an extrapolated zero-temperature magnetic penetration depth of 2170 A.
Thyrotropin-induced expression of a gene for a ribosomal protein related to the trk oncogene.

Abstract By differential screening of an FRTL5 rat thyroid cell cDNA library, we isolated a clone (G7) corresponding to an mRNA transcript whose steady-state level is increased by thyrotropin (TSH) stimulation by a non-transcriptional mechanism. The nucleotide sequence of the G7 cDNA (0.85 kb) revealed homology with two other genes. First, there was 89% homology with the cDNA for a protein whose ammo-terminal end forms the amino terminus of the chimeric tyrosine kinase human oncogene, trk-2h. Second, TSH-responsive G7 is 95% homologous with the ‘surf-3’ gene within the mouse surfeit locus which codes for the mouse L7a ribosomal protein. These findings are of interest in view of the frequent occurrence in thyroid cancers of an oncogene (PTC) that consists of an unidentified amino terminus linked to a downstream tyrosine kinase moiety.
Topology Optimization of Structures Using a Global Stress Measure

An approach for stress based topology optimization is studied here where stress constraints for continuum structures are imposed using a conservative global stress measure. A relation between the mean compliance and Von-Mises stress is used to construct an objective function that minimizes mass until stress constraints are activated. This approach is implemented in a mesh independent finite element framework where the feasible region is defined using boundary equations while analysis and topology optimization are performed on a background mesh. The SIMP approach is used for topology optimization and nodal values of density are treated as the design variables. The density field is interpolated over the elements to obtain a continuous distribution. To ensure smooth boundaries a smoothing term is also added to the objective function which minimizes gradient of the density function. The optimization problem is then solved using Moving Barrier Method (MBM). Several examples are studied to evaluate this approach.© 2012 ASME
Has the circulating permeability factor in primary FSGS been found

A circulating permeability factor has long been implicated in the pathogenesis of primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Evidence in animal models and now in several cohorts of patients with primary FSGS suggests a role for the soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) as a biomarker and perhaps as a contributing factor. Confirmation of these findings might lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for FSGS as well as a better understanding of podocyte dysfunction.
Superposed Deformation and Polymetamorphism, Brevard Zone, South Carolina

Textural studies and detailed field mapping in the Brevard–Poor Mountain belt in northwestern South Carolina indicate that this zone experienced at least two periods of polyphase deformation and metamorphism. The first deformation, F 1 , produced sheared-out isoclinal folds. Progressive metamorphism, M 1a , in the almandine-amphibolite facies accompanied F 1 , as did dislocation metamorphism, M 1b , and retrogressive metamorphism, M 1c , produced by the attenuation and shearing out (tectonic slides) of the isoclines. A second deformation, F 2 , nearly coplanar and coaxial with F 1 , also was accompanied by polyphase metamorphism, M 2 . The first phase of this metamorphism, M 2a , was progressive, attaining the upper greenschist or greenschist-amphibolite facies. Dislocation metamorphism, M 2b , and retrogressive metamorphism, M 2c , occurred during the waning stage of F 2 deformation. Tentatively, we correlate F 1 and M 1 with the Taconic orogeny and F 2 and M 2 with the Acadian orogeny. All aspects of F 1 , M 1 are more intense than F 2 , M 2 , indicating that Ordovician tectonism was the most important diastrophism affecting this portion of the Brevard9s development. A third retrogressive metamorphism, M 3 (?), is proposed but the evidence is not conclusive. The distribution and structural relations of this third phase of retrogressive metamorphism suggest that it is probably mainly related to late Paleozoic faulting.
Excessive Uniformity in Federal Drug Sentencing

The ideal of fair and proportionate punishment was a major impetus for federal sentencing reform. Observers of the current federal drug sentencing regime contend that the sentencing guidelines and mandatory minimums lead to the problem of “excessive uniformity” in which offenders of widely differing culpability receive similar sentences due to the dominance of drug quantity as a sentencing factor. This study investigates this phenomenon using the 1997 Survey of Inmates in Federal Correctional Facilities. Controlling for relevant offense, offender, and case processing variables, the analysis finds that the quantity-driven sentencing fails to account for important differences in offender culpability—resulting in excessively uniform sentences for offenders with highly dissimilar roles in the offense. The main policy implication of this research is that the central, organizing role of drug quantity in federal drug sentencing needs to be rethought. Indeed, effectively dealing with the problem of excessive uniformity will likely require the wholesale restructuring of how federal sentences for drug offenders are determined.
Fatty acid intake and incident nephrolithiasis

Background: Elevated levels of arachidonic acid in cell membranes may promote the hypercalciuria and hyperoxaluria that are characteristic of idiopathic calcium nephrolithiasis. The intake of n-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may decrease the arachidonic acid content of cell membranes and reduce urinary excretion of calcium and oxalate. It has been proposed that greater intake of EPA and DHA (through dietary sources or fish oil supplementation) may reduce the risk for kidney stone formation. Methods: After excluding subjects with a prior history of kidney stones, we prospectively examined the relation between fatty acid intake (including fish oil supplements) and incident symptomatic kidney stones in 3 large cohorts: the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study (N = 46,043), the Nurses' Health Study I (NHS I; N=92,079), and the Nurses' Health Study II (N = 96,304). Self-administered food-frequency questionnaires were used to assess fatty acid intake every 4 years. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to adjust simultaneously for a variety of risk factors. Results: We documented 3,956 incident kidney stones during a combined 36 years of follow-up. After adjustment for intake of other dietary factors, no association was detected between the intake of arachidonic acid or linoleic acid (a metabolic precursor to arachidonic acid) and the risk for incident kidney stones. Older women (NHS I) in the highest quintile of EPA and DHA intake had a multivariate relative risk of 1.28 (95% confidence interval, 1.04 to 1.56; P for trend=0.04) of stone formation compared with women in the lowest quintile. However, this relation was not observed in the other 2 cohorts. Conclusion: Fatty acid intake is not consistently associated with the development of kidney stones. Greater levels of arachidonic and linoleic acid intake do not increase the risk for developing a kidney stone, and greater intake of n-3 fatty acids does not reduce the risk.
Body image in patients with head and neck cancer: a review of the literature.

Summary Objectives Patients with head and neck cancer have a high potential for body image disturbance due to highly visible disfigurement resulting from both the primary cancer and its treatment. The purpose of this review is to examine the conceptual framework for understanding body image in patients treated for head and neck cancer, present the current state of the science, discuss measurement issues, and identify areas for future investigation. A novel hypothetical model based on ongoing work is proposed, and it asserts that head and neck cancer therapy results in two main tumor/treatment related physical effects: (1) disfigurement and (2) dysfunction. In this model, personal, social and environmental factors moderate the effect of dysfunction and disfigurement on body image. Results A search of the empirical literature revealed a paucity of data on body image in head and neck cancers including a lack of longitudinal data as well as a lack of data on the relationship between body image disturbance and other psychosocial variables such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation over the course of treatment and throughout recovery. Additionally, the need for measurement tools specifically developed for the assessment of body image in head and neck cancer patients was identified. Conclusion Prospective longitudinal studies that define the trajectory of body image issues and the mediating and moderating factors associated with body image will allow researchers to design targeted interventions to limit body image disturbance and thereby improve quality of life in patients with head and neck cancer.
Mutant S1 Alleles of Mice Affect Susceptibility to Friend Spleen Focus-Forming Virus

Mice of genotypes S1/S1 d , S1/+, and S1 d /+ (but not S1 T /S1 T or S1 T /+) were resistant to spleen focucs-forming virus. The "environment" in which hemopoietic target cells for this virus develop was not conducive for infection or focus formation, or both, but the target cells were not altered directly. The same genes appear to regulate hemopoiesis and leukemogenic transformation.
Sensibility deficiencies in the hands of children with spastic hemiplegia

We evaluated 40 children with spastic hemiplegia due to cerebral palsy for sensory function and relative limb size in the affected and unaffected upper extremities. Sensory function of each limb was evaluated with respect to stereognosis (12 objects), two-point discrimination, and proprioception. Four size measurements of each limb were made: arm and forearm circumference and forearm and forearm-hand length. This study showed that 97% of the spastic limbs had a stereognosis deficit, 90% had a two-point discrimination deficit, and 46% had a proprioception deficit. Thus sensory deficits are the rule rather than the exception in children with spastic hemiplegia. Those children with severe stereognosis deficits had significantly smaller limbs in all four measurement parameters than the children with mild or moderate stereognosis deficits. In the preoperative evaluation of children with spastic hemiplegia, severe size discrepancy is a physical examination tool that can be used as a predictor of severe sensory deficits. This information is helpful for the hand surgeon in establishing realistic surgical goals.
Arthroscopic treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the scaphoid

Osteochondritis dissecans of the carpal scaphoid has been reported only rarely in the literature. A 29-year-old, right-hand-dominant oil-field worker with symptomatic osteochondritis dissecans of the left carpal scaphoid was treated by arthroscopic debridement and drilling of the lesion. Preliminary follow-up at 9 months revealed a dramatic relief in his symptoms.
The alpha4bbeta7-integrin is dynamically expressed on murine eosinophils and involved in eosinophil trafficking to the intestine.

Background Of the numerous adhesion molecules expressed by eosinophils, the alpha4-integrin has been identified as critically involved in eosinophil trafficking in the lung. Most studies have focused on the role of the alpha4beta1-adhesion complex, but eosinophils also express the alpha4beta7-integrin complex. Objective To investigate the role of alpha4beta7, by assessing its membrane expression on eosinophils from different compartments using allergen-challenged mice and IL-4/IL-5 bi-transgenic mice. In addition, we aim to determine the impact of beta7-integrin deficiency on eosinophil recruitment to the lungs and intestine in specific experimental allergic models. Results Evaluation of alpha4beta7 expression on bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung tissue eosinophils revealed a down-regulation of this integrin as eosinophils migrate through the lungs. Indeed eosinophils isolated from the BALF and lung of allergic mice had low expression of the alpha4beta7-complex. While expression of the alpha4-chain remained unchanged, a significant decrease in beta7-surface expression was observed. Intestinal eosinophils, isolated from Peyer's patches, also displayed a down-regulation of the alpha4beta7-integrin, albeit only modest. In contrast, circulating eosinophils, isolated from the blood and spleen, expressed high levels of the alpha4beta7-integrin. However, eosinophil trafficking into the lungs of beta7-integrin-deficient mice was not significantly impaired in response to respiratory allergen challenges. In contrast, beta7-deficient mice had impaired eosinophil recruitment to the intestine. Conclusion Taken together, these results identify differential expression of the alpha4beta7-integrin on eosinophils and its critical role in regulating eosinophil responses in the intestine.
Organization Theory from Chester Barnard to the Present and Beyond

This article presents a review of the book “Organization Theory From Chester Barnard to the Present and Beyond,” edited by Oliver E. Williamson.
Circular Representations of the Latin-American Cosmic Race

Rodo’s Ariel (1900) launched a self-reflexive literary inquiry into Latin American specificity in contrast to the decadent West, which resonated throughout the entire century with the literati. This tendency, corollary to Americanism, sought to illuminate American themes, lauding the spectacular natural features of the continent as much as the distinctive history and ethnic/racial character of Latin America as basis for cultural sovereignty. At the threshold of political independence from the lingering colonial Spanish rule, Latin American writers articulated their identity vis-a-vis the changed world order, post Spanish American War. In his essay, Rodo incited optimism and a sense of commitment to change in the younger generation regarding the role Spanish America could play. Furthermore, positing the region as a site of future eminence, Ariel (spiritual incarnation of Hispanic America) epitomized the liberated, aesthetic hub of creation that countered a material, decadent, and imperialist northern paradigm.
Atomic structure of defects in GaN:Mg grown with Ga polarity.

The atomic structure of characteristic defects (Mg-rich hexagonal pyramids and truncated pyramids) in $\mathrm{G}\mathrm{a}\mathrm{N}\ensuremath{\mathbin:}\mathrm{M}\mathrm{g}$ thin films grown with Ga polarity was determined at atomic resolution by reconstruction of the scattered electron wave in a transmission electron microscope. Small cavities within the defects have inside walls covered by GaN of reverse polarity. We propose that lateral overgrowth of the cavities restores matrix polarity on the defect base. From matrix to defect, exchange of Ga and N sublattices leads to a $0.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2\text{ }\AA{}$ displacement of Ga sublattices. We observe a $[1\underline{1}00]/3$ shift from matrix $AB$ stacking to $BC$ stacking for the entire pyramid. Electron energy loss spectroscopy detected changes in N edge and presence of oxygen on the defect walls. Our results explain commonly observed decrease of acceptor concentration in heavily doped $\mathrm{G}\mathrm{a}\mathrm{N}\ensuremath{\mathbin:}\mathrm{M}\mathrm{g}$.