cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The network you keep: analyzing persons of interest using cliqster

We consider the problem of determining the structural differences between different types of social networks and using these differences for applications concerning prediction of their structures. Much research on this problem has been conducted in the context of social media such as Facebook and Twitter, within which one would like to characterize and classify different types of individuals such as leaders, followers, and influencers. However, we consider the problem in the context of information gathered from law-enforcement agencies, financial institutions, and similar organizations, within which one would like to characterize and classify different types of persons of interest. The members of these networks tend to form special communities and thus new techniques are required. We propose a new generative model called Cliqster, for unweighted networks, and we describe an interpretable, and efficient algorithm for representing networks within this model. Our representation preserves the important underlying characteristics of the network and is both concise and discriminative. We demonstrate the discriminative power of our method by comparing to a traditional SVD method as well as a state-of-the-art Graphlet algorithm. Our results are general in that they can be applied to "person of interest" networks as well as traditional social media networks.
Hippocampal theta and disinhibition: a counterreply.

As a general rule even the best established findings have a few scraps of evidence against them. The reasons for this incl~~de differences in task parameters and techniques, lesion size and placement, and last but not least, chance factors. Identical groups should differ at the 5% level one time in 20. Literally dozens of p~~blished and unpublished studies collectively indicate that hippocampal lesions do not produce a deficit in simple 2-choice discrimination learning. While one study (involving an unusual scoring method) does report a deficit (Niki, 1962), others report a slight enhancement (e.g., Silveira & Kimble, 1968). The evidence cited by Bennett (1969) as indicating that hippocampal lesions produce a deficit in delayed responding is even shakier than he admits. Corre11 and Scoville ( 1965 ) found no deficit on a delayed match from sample in those Ss with lesions confined to the hippocampus. Those with combined hippocampal-amygdaloid lesions were bad at every delay, including zero. Orbach, et nl. (1960) and Mahut and Cordeau (1963) also employed the combination lesion and found no deficit in delayed responses pef se. The deficit was in delayed alternation. As was pointed out by Racine and Kimble (1965) animals with hippocampal lesions just cannot learn to alternate, whatever the delay. One must demonstrate that the deficit is due to a delay and not to an inability to solve the problem. There is ample evidence indicating that a delay factor in general is not a problem in hippocampectomized animals. For example, Kimble and Pribram ( 1963) showed that monkeys with this lesion improved in learning as the intertrial interval was lengthened and to the same extent as normals. One cannot, however, rule out the possibility that an animal does in fact use his hippocampus on problems not requiring it. It is a safer guess that the hippocampus would be functional during the learning of problems adversely affected by hippocampal lesions, however, and there is no reason why these cannot be employed by the electrophysiologists. It is perhaps unfortunate that elecrrophysiological studies of hippocampal activity began several years before the recent explosion in the lesion and behavior field. As luck wo~~ld have it, the tasks chosen by rhe early workers s~~ch as Grastyan and Adey were later found to be relatively insensitive to lesions. In the meantime, however, we have discovered many responses which crucially depend
White-Nose Syndrome Inflicts Lasting Injuries to the Wings of Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus)

White-nose syndrome (WNS) is an emerging disease causing massive mortality of hibernating bats in the northeastern United States. At hibernacula, bats affected with WNS typically exhibit growth of a white psychrophylic fungus (Geomyces destructans) on the nose, wings and ears; many individuals seem to prematurely die of starvation owing to depleted fat reserves. Conspicuous scarring and necrosis of the wings on WNS-affected bats that survive hibernation may have lasting consequences for survival and reproductive success during the active season. We monitored two maternity colonies of little brown myotis, Myotis lucifugus, in Massachusetts and New Hampshire from 14 May to 8 August 2008 to assess body conditions after expected exposure to WNS over the previous winter. We developed a 4-point wing damage index (WDI = 0 to 3) to assess the incidence and severity of wing damage in the months following emergence from hibernation. Severe wing damage was observed up to 4 June and moderate damage was observed through 9 July. Light wing damage was observed on both adult and juvenile bats throughout the study period, but was not exclusively attributed to WNS. The most severe wing damage was associated with a lower body mass index which may reflect reduced foraging success. Overall, reproductive rate was 85.1% in 2008; slightly lower than reported in previous studies. The incidence, timing, and geographic range of wing damage observed on little brown myotis in 2008 correspond to the occurrence of WNS at hibernacula. Monitoring wing conditions of affected and healthy bats will be important tool for assessing the spread of this disease and for establishing baseline data for unaffected bats. The simple scale we propose should be useful for monitoring wing conditions in any bat species.
Distribution of Mucor piriformis, Rhizopus sexualis and R. stolonifer in relation to their spoilage of strawberries

The Zygomycete species were isolated occasionally from flowers and immature fruits, but increased markedly on ripe fruits late in the season. In contrast, Botrytis cinerea was present at consistently high levels on strawberry flowers and fruits from the onset of flowering to the end of the harvesting season. This difference in distribution is due to the susceptibility of strawberry flowers and fruits at all stages of development to infection by Botrytis, whereas the Zygomycetes are only able to infect ripe and damaged white fruits. All species showed a greater potential to infect from a food base compared to a spore inoculum, and damaged fruits were invariably more susceptible to infection than undamaged fruits. The incidence of Mucor piriformis on flowers and fruits increased noticeably when rainsplash occurred, indicating the presence of this species in the soil and debris. Low relative humidities (70–80%) favoured formation of sporangiospores by Rhizopus sexualis and R. stolonifer growing on ripe strawberries, but at relative humidities above 90% R. sexualis formed large numbers of zygospores. M. piriformis produced sporangia at relative humidities from 70 to 100%.
Purification of human uterine progesterone receptor.

IT is now generally accepted that before the physiological response to the androgens1, oestrogens2, glucocorticoids3 and progesterone4–7 can be manifested, these hormones must complex with specific receptors in their target tissue. Since progesterone is important both in the mechanisms associated with transport of the ovum through the oviduct8,9 and in preparing the endometrium for implantation of the blastocyst10, a greater understanding of the action of the hormone–receptor complex at the molecular level will lead to a more detailed knowledge of the mechanisms involved in reproductive biology. This understanding may be utilised to develop new contraceptive methods and to investigate the genesis and treatment of endometrial adenocarcinoma.
Productivity of programmable automation—A simulation-based analysis of a robotic system for component insertion

Abstract Flexible automation vendors must consider hardware and software investments to improve their equipment competitive position through productivity. A rational approach requires comparing the expected improvement of a potential investment with its cost. This paper demonstrates the use of simulation and sensitivity analysis to estimate productivity potential for investments in hardware and software of a two-handed robotic system used in populating circuit boards.
STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION OF PITHOPHORA OEDOGONIA (CHLOROPHYTA) CELL WALLS1

Carbohydrates, amino acids and other cell wall components of Pithophora oedogonia (Montagne) Wittrock were identified by physical, biochemical, and cytochemical techniques as well as by light and electron microscopy. The major polysaccharides of P. oedogonia cell walls were cellulose and chitin. In addition to N-acetylglucosamine and glucose, N-acetylgalactosamine, galactose, arabinose, fucose, mannose, xylose, and galacturonic acid were the other sugars, amino sugars, and sugar derivatives detected. The carbohydrate content of the cell walls was estimated to be 65% non-nitrogenous hexose and 6% chitin. Chitin was present in the crosswall disks and outer wall, whereas cellulose was confined to the inner wall. Protein and N- acetylgalactosamine were concentrated in the chitin-rich wall fraction. The location of chitin in P. oedogonia cell walk is suggested as a basis for morphological differences between the two genera, Cladophora and Pithophora.
International outsourcing of services: A partnership model

Abstract The business landscape is currently witnessing widespread migration of service functions from developed nations like the U.S to several foreign destinations as India, China, Ireland, Philippines etc. This happens as more and more firms engage in international outsourcing of services (IOS) to survive in today's highly competitive business environment. Despite increase in IOS, the nature of partnerships involved between clients and their overseas providers have not received adequate attention in the scholarly literature. In this paper, we develop a conceptual model that explains three possible types of IOS partnership. We discuss how these partnerships vary in the way they are conceived and implemented. Propositions are offered after elaborating on each type of partnership. We conclude by discussing the academic and practical implications of our model.
Elimination of dysphagia using ultrasound guidance for botulinum toxin injections in cervical dystonia.

Introduction: Dysphagia is a common side effect after botulinum toxin injections for cervical dystonia, with an incidence of 10–40%, depending upon the study and dose used. Methods: Our study consisted of 5 preselected women who met criteria for cervical dystonia and subsequent dysphagia after electromyography (EMG)-guided injections. Injections were performed with ultrasound (US) imaging, and the effects on swallowing were examined. Separately, sternocleidomastoid (SCM) thickness in healthy controls and treated patients was measured. Results: There were 34 episodes of dysphagia over 98 injection sessions using EMG guidance for a cumulative rate of 34.7%. Using US plus EMG guidance, there was 0% dysphagia across 27 injection sessions. SCM thickness was <1.1 cm. Conclusion: US combined with EMG guidance eliminated recurrent dysphagia after botulinum toxin treatment, possibly by keeping the injectate within the SCM. Muscle Nerve 46: 535–539, 2012
Effect of Cyclic AMP on Morphine Analgesia Tolerance and Physical Dependence

ADENOSINE-3′,5′-MONOPHOSPHATE (cAMP) has often been suggested as a second messenger which mediates the action of a variety of hormones1. The presynaptic location of the cAMP system, and the demonstration of a cAMP dependent protein kinase in mammalian brain tissue, suggest a possible role for cAMP in the central nervous system2. It has been suggested, for example, that cAMP may participate in the secretion of acetylcholine3 and the hypophyseal releasing factors in the hypothalamus3. In vitro4 and in vivo5 studies indicate that some putative neurohormones increase cAMP synthesis by activating adenyl cyclase. The effect of cAMP on brain biogenic amines has also been studied. Shein et al.6 showed an increase in serotonin (5-HT) synthesis from tryptophan by cAMP in pineal culture. Tagliamonte et al.7 reported that injection of cAMP into the lateral ventricle of rats increases the 5-HT turnover in brain. Results obtained in our laboratory in mice (I. K. H., H. H. L. and E. L. W., unpublished results) indicate that cAMP decreases the endogenous level of cerebral norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) as well as the conversion of 14C-tyrosine into 14C-CA (catecholamines).
Overview and Status of the Upgraded Z Pulsed Power Driver

The Z pulsed power driver at Sandia National Laboratories has been upgraded to deliver more energy to imploding plasma and magnetic pressure equation-of-state loads. The upgraded system has been tested with up to 25 MJ stored in the Marx generators, and with more than 26 MA delivered to a magnetic pressure load. Large, multi-module systems such as Z require high performance, highly accurate, and highly reliable energy storage, pulse compression and power flow systems. Each of thirty-six separate modules must provide a 3 TW pulse in 6.4 Omega water transmission lines. The modules deliver more than 250 kJ apiece to the common load. The goal for this system is temporal accuracy of the 100 ns rise time load current to be within plusmn1 ns. At the same time, the probability of a pre-fire of any of the approximately fourteen hundred high voltage, high current spark gap switches in the machine must be low. The competing requirements of low jitter and low prefire rate are addressed on Z by using strong triggering and optimized designs. Issues of high reliability are addressed by extensive calculations and testing. We will show the design goals and implementations, as well as results from the initial experiments on the machine. We will show the performance of the various subsystems, from the primary trigger generator that starts the high-voltage triggering process, through the pulse-forming system, to the vacuum insulator stack and the magnetically insulated transmission lines that deliver energy to the load.
Comparisons between transport model calculations and experimental data

A number of transport models such as HETC-HEDS, MCNP-X, HZETRN, PHITS, FLUKA, GEANT, MARS, and SHIELD-HIT have all recently incorporated heavy-ion interactions, and as such they can provide a complete description of Galactic Cosmic Ray (GCR) transport.1 2 These models are essential tools for the design of spacecraft, habitats, and instrumentation used in space. In the past decade, benchmark comparisons between experimental data and model calculations have been performed in order to provide a measure of the accuracy of those calculations. There is a large range of data which can be selected for comparison, data that includes measurements of accelerator-based cross sections and thick-target yields. We discuss some of the trends seen in the comparisons, with a focus on the sensitivity of the trends as a function of the projectile/ion system being studied, as well as the charge and mass of the secondary particle. Results indicate the models do well, in general, for heavy and intermediate-mass charged secondaries, but don't do well for light ion secondaries. In addition, there are significant differences between the models, indicating more work is needed.
A Hausdorff measure classification of G-polar sets for the superdiffusions

We establish relations betweenG-polar sets of superdiffusions and the restricted Hausdorff dimension. As an application, we give new proofs of Dynkin's criteria for theS-polarity andH-polarity (established earlier by Dawson, Iscoe, Perkins, and Le Gall under more restrictive assumptions.)
Assessing diagnostic accuracy and the clinical value of positron emission tomography imaging in patients with solitary pulmonary nodules (SNAP)

Background Diagnostic tests, particularly diagnostic imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET), have the potential to make important contributions t...
Chilling-induced Oxidative Stress in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. cv. Calypso) Seedlings

Summary One-week old cucumber ( Cucumis sativus L. cv. Calypso) seedlings were chilled at 4 °C in the dark for up to 6 days, after which they were rewarmed at 13 °C in the light (16-h photoperiod) for 2 d to allow for recovery. Responses of these seedlings were compared to unchilled controls (13 °C) held in the dark or in the light with a 16-h photoperiod. Loss of viability in dark-chilled seedlings required more than 1 d of chilling and progressed to the point where it was complete after 4 d of chilling. Irreversible increases in cotyledon tissue electrolyte leakage of dark-chilled seedlings did not occur until after seedling collapse, indicating that increases in passive permeability are secondary responses to chilling injury. There were only minor differences in the temporal changes in the tissue antioxidants reduced glutathione, ascorbic acid, atocopherol, and β-carotene between chilled, unchilled, and chilled/rewarmed seedlings, with the exception that slightly lower levels of β-carotene and α-tocopherol may have been induced by dark-chilling. Peroxidation of thylakoid lipids was induced during the rewarming period, after only 1 to 2 d of chilling, as indicated by the accumulation of lipid fluorescent pigments (LFPs). LFPs accumulated in both the phospholipid and glycolipid fractions of thylakoid lipids extracted from rewarmed seedlings, whereas little evidence for lipid peroxidation was obtained for the unchilled controls. Our results indicate that chilling-induced oxidative stress may have a role in transducing chilling injury in cucumber seedlings.
Use of continuous transdermal alcohol monitoring during a contingency management procedure to reduce excessive alcohol use.

Abstract Background Research on contingency management to treat excessive alcohol use is limited due to feasibility issues with monitoring adherence. This study examined the effectiveness of using transdermal alcohol monitoring as a continuous measure of alcohol use to implement financial contingencies to reduce heavy drinking. Methods Twenty-six male and female drinkers (from 21 to 39 years old) were recruited from the community. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the two treatment sequences. Sequence 1 received 4 weeks of no financial contingency (i.e., $0) drinking followed by 4 weeks each of $25 and then $50 contingency management; Sequence 2 received 4 weeks of $25 contingency management followed by 4 weeks each of no contingency (i.e., $0) and then $50 contingency management. During the $25 and $50 contingency management conditions, participants were paid each week when the Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor (SCRAM-II™) identified no heavy drinking days. Results Participants in both contingency management conditions had fewer drinking episodes and reduced frequencies of heavy drinking compared to the $0 condition. Participants randomized to Sequence 2 (receiving $25 contingency before the $0 condition) exhibited less frequent drinking and less heavy drinking in the $0 condition compared to participants from Sequence 1. Conclusions Transdermal alcohol monitoring can be used to implement contingency management programs to reduce excessive alcohol consumption.
Integrating parallel dataflow programming with the Ada tasking model

This paper describes how parallel dataflow programming can be simply and efficiently integrated with the Ada tasking model. Three extensions to standard Ada are proposed: parallel composition of statements, a parallel for-loop statement, and single-assignment types. Using these constructs, parallel Ada programs can be written without explicit tasking, that are identical—except for two new reserved words—to sequential Ada programs that satisfy the same specifications. These programs can be developed as sequential programs, then executed as deterministic parallel programs for high performance. The proposed extensions are defined by transformation into standard Ada tasking, and can efficiently be implemented by straightforward preprocessing, without any change to the underlying Ada compiler or run-time system.
Energy efficiency of farming systems: Organic and conventional agriculture

Abstract An assessment was made of the energy efficiency, yield performance, and labor requirements for the production of corn, wheat, potatoes, and apples using organic (without synthetic chemical fertilizers and pesticides) and conventional farming technologies. Organic corn and wheat production was 29–70% more energy efficient than conventional production. However, conventional potato and apple production was 7–93% more energy efficient than organic production. For all four crops, the labor input per unit of yield was higher for organic systems compared with conventional production.
The value of open standards and open-source software in government environments

Among the most noteworthy topics surrounding the recent widespread adoption of open-source software (OSS) are the convergence by governments worldwide to open standards and the ways in which open source embraces this convergence. There are continuing debates over the future of software and, in particular, the competition between OSS and proprietary software. Many studies by governments and by information technology analysts suggest that OSS and open standards are intimately connected and that the inherent value of open-source adoption may be attributable in large part to the embodiment of open standards in OSS. The government environment is changing rapidly in areas as diverse as homeland security and social services. Given the equally rapid changes in the information technology marketplace, the successful adoption of these new technologies by governments will depend on how well the strengths of proprietary software and OSS are understood and applied-especially with respect to the use of open standards to speed deployments of integrated capabilities that respond to emerging challenges. This paper evaluates the relative strengths of proprietary software and OSS as development techniques that embrace the open standards valued by governments.
High-injection barrier effects in SiGe HBTs operating at cryogenic temperatures

We demonstrate that high-injection barrier effects associated with the collector-base silicon-germanium (SiGe) to silicon (Si) heterojunction are an important design constraint for SiGe heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBTs) operating at cryogenic temperatures. Due to its thermally activated nature, these barrier effects can have important dc and ac consequences at cryogenic temperatures even when undetectable under room temperature operation. We use measured results from advanced SiGe HBTs and Si BJTs over a wide temperature range, in combination with simulation, to shed light on the design issues associated with these high-injection barrier phenomena
Another Layer of Ignominy : Beliefs About Public Views of Sex Offenders

Abstract A sample of college students (N = 664) estimated the extent to which “most people” would devalue and discriminate against persons with the labels “ex-convict” and “sex offender.” Respondents expect both groups to face rejection, with those labeled sex offender more strongly rejected than those labeled ex-convict. Analyses were conducted to determine if characteristics of evaluators were related to their beliefs about public views of sex offenders. Results show that being white, female, and a parent are significantly associated with these beliefs, as is having someone incarcerated among one's circle of family or friends. Knowing someone sexually abused is unrelated. Most of the variance, however, is accounted for by controls for beliefs about public views of ex-convicts. These findings suggest that perceived public rejection of sex offenders is linked to stereotypic views of criminal offenders in general and to membership in groups deemed most at risk in media portrayals. Future research on media-...
Limiting ischemic liver injury by interfering with lysosomal autophagy.

Two regimens designed to ameliorate hepatic injury from complete liver dearterialization (LD) by interfering with lysosome-mediated proteolysis were studied in 200-g Buffalo rats. Five rats received a lysosome membrane-stabilizing flavenoid, catechin, 200 mg/kg/day for 5 days pre-LD. Five others were infused with lysosome protease inhibitors (LPI), leupeptin and pepstatin, delivered in 0.22-μm multilamellar liposomes at 500 μg each per hour for 2 hr, beginning 20 min before LD. Control groups (n = 4 or 5) were untreated LD, and treated and untreated sham LD rats. Blood from an arterial catheter pre-LD and 2 hr (peak enzyme release), 2 days, and 4 days post-LD yielded β-glucuronidase (BG), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase values for each rat. Liver histology was not different between groups at 4 days post-LD. Untreated controls and the catechin LD group had similar enzyme levels at all points. LPI treatment values were statistically similar to sham LD values and had peak values significantly lower (P < 0.05) than untreated LD controls at 2 hr: BG, 75 ± 10 (SD) units per liter versus 185 ± 32 units per liter; AST, 134 ± 47 units per liter versus 459 ± 175 units per liter. The BG lowering persisted to day 2 (55 ± 25 units per liter versus 93 ± 40 units per liter). Other values remained normal or normalized by Day 2. Hepatic damage as measured by enzyme release was not diminished by the membrane stabilizer catechin but was diminished after ischemic injury by specific targeted lysosomal protease inhibitors.
Quantitation of 3'-hydroxypentobarbital in serum using high-performance liquid chromatography

A quantitative method for the determination of 3'-hydroxypentobarbital (3'HP) in serum has been developed using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. A sensitivity limit of 0.5 micrograms/ml in 100 microliters serum was obtained by detection at 215 nm. Serum concentrations of 3'HP were measured in patients receiving high-dose pentobarbital therapy and pentobarbital:3'HP concentrations are discussed.
Simultaneous complete elastic and electromagnetic band gaps in periodic structures

We study elastic and electromagnetic properties in periodic structures and present “deaf and blind” structures, i.e. materials having simultaneous complete phononic and photonic band gaps, that is, transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) electromagnetic waves, pure shear elastic waves, and mixed shear and dilatation elastic waves, cannot propagate within these structures. These composite materials can control the flow of light and sound at the same time. The existence of complete gaps for electromagnetic and elastic waves can lead to the simultaneous localization of light and sound, a novel phenomena that can have strong influence on photon–phonon interactions. We study the dependence of the simultaneous and complete gaps on material parameters to provide design guidelines on how to create these photonic–phononic crystals.
Use of an artificial neural network to quantitate risk of malignancy for abnormal mammograms.

Abstract Background. The purpose of this study was to develop a simplified method for standardized categorization of patients with abnormal mammograms by incorporating quantitative risk assessment. Methods and patients. A prospective collection of 1288 outpatient referrals to a surgeon for abnormal mammograms, 185 (14.4%) with malignancy, was studied. Artificial neural network (ANN) and logistic regression (LR) models were developed and compared with the surgeon's clinical impression. The first 490 patients were used as the training set for each model. The ANN and LR were tested on the remaining patients, who were divided into 2 consecutive groups. The main outcome measures were (1) the accuracy (receiver operating characteristic [ROC] curve analysis) of biopsy recommendations based on the surgeon's impression and created by the 2 models and (2) the percentage of cancers that were falsely categorized as benign by the surgeon or the 2 models. Results. Despite the fact that the surgeon's clinical impression showed good discrimination (area under ROC = 0.86), 13 of 708 cases (1.8%) thought to be benign by the surgeon proved to be carcinomas. The neural network (but not the LR model) was statistically superior to the surgeon's impression (ANN: ROC = 0.89, P = .004; LR: ROC = 0.86). Additionally, the computerized models were able to quantitate risk. Those patients predicted to be “benign” by the network (n = 391) had only a 0.5% risk of intraductal carcinoma and no invasive carcinoma, whereas 47% of those patients in the highest risk quartile had cancer. Both computerized models predicted a need for biopsy in 11 of 13 of the lesions (85%) missed by the surgeon's impression. Each model missed only 2 cases of intraductal carcinoma in young women. Conclusions. Computerized risk stratification models, used in routine practice, may help surgeons with decision making. The use of either model helps quantitate risk, thereby facilitating discussions with patients, and may reduce the number of “missed” cancers. (Surgery 2001;129:459-66.)
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for substance use disorders has shown efficacy as a monotherapy and as part of combination treatment strategies. This article provides a review of the evidence supporting the use of CBT, clinical elements of its application, novel treatment strategies for improving treatment response, and dissemination efforts. Although CBT for substance abuse is characterized by heterogeneous treatment elements such as operant learning strategies, cognitive and motivational elements, and skills-building interventions, across protocols several core elements emerge that focus on overcoming the powerfully reinforcing effects of psychoactive substances. These elements, and support for their efficacy, are discussed.
Computer simulation of effects of the pore size distribution on the kinetics of pressure-assisted final-stage densification

Most theoretical treatments of pressure-assisted densification of porous solids assume a single size for all pores. We remove this assumption and consider a distribution of pore sizes. Dissolution of intragranular pores by volume diffusion and dissolution of intergranular pores by grain-boundary diffusion are both treated. The evolution with time of pore size distributions is calculated for distributions that are initially described by log-normal and Weibull functions, and differences in predicted behaviours are discussed. The pore size distribution is then related to two important quantities: porosity and number of pores per unit volume. The assumption of a distribution of pore sizes is found to avoid certain unrealistic predictions obtained from models with a single pore size, such as abrupt disappearance of all pores and rapid approach to full density.
FACTORS AFFECTING HIGH- DENSITY LIPOPROTEINS

Although it is well established that a low-circulating level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is strongly associated with the likelihood of developing atherosclerotic coronary heart disease (CHD), the causal nature of this association has not been shown. Low levels of HDL cholesterol frequently are associated with other CHD risk factors, whose correction, often by hygienic means, may reduce CHD risk with minimal risk of adverse side-effects. However, other recommended hygienic interventions may lower HDL cholesterol levels. Specific safe and effective drugs for correcting a low HDL cholesterol level are not available and the potential value of specific pharmacologic treatment of this condition in the treatment or prevention of CHD remains unproven. Thus, while HDL measurement should be incorporated routinely in risk-assessment, intervention efforts should focus primarily on lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Endothelin Receptor Blockade Does Not Alter the Increase in Pulmonary Blood Flow Due to Oxygen Ventilation in Fetal Lambs

At birth, pulmonary vasodilation occurs during rhythmic distension of the lungs with oxygen. Both mechanical and humoral factors are involved, including the release of vasoactive substances such as prostacyclin and endothelium-derived nitric oxide (EDNO). However, the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Because endothelin-1 (ET-1) produces potent pulmonary vasodilation in the fetus via EDNO release and ET-1 concentrations are increased at birth, we considered that ET-1 activity may participate in the pulmonary vasodilation that occurs with O2 ventilation. Therefore, we studied and compared the changes in pulmonary hemodynamics associated with in utero O2 ventilation with and without ET-1 receptor blockade induced by an infusion of Ro 47-0203 (Bosentan, a nonselective ET receptor antagonist), in 13 late-gestation fetal lambs. In all fetal lambs, prostaglandin synthesis was prevented by an infusion of meclofenamate, and ductus arteriosus constriction was prevented by prior formalin infiltration. The infusion of Ro 47-0203 blocked the decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance induced by injections of either ET-1 (-0.985 versus +0.012 mm Hg/mL/min/100 g of lung,p < 0.05) or 4-Ala-ET-1 (an ETb receptor agonist) (-0.717versus -0.052 mm Hg/mL/min/100 g of lung, p < 0.05). However, ET receptor blockade did not change the increase in pulmonary blood flow or decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance associated with in utero O2 ventilation. This study suggests that endogenous ET-1 activity does not play an important role in the vasodilatory response to ventilation with O2 in utero.
Formation of {113} facetted Si hut clusters on thin Si1−xCx films on Si(001)

Abstract Stable {1 1 3}-facetted Si hut clusters with a small (0 0 1) top facet self-assemble at 940 K on Si1−xCx thin films that are obtained by annealing C-containing Si(0 0 1) surfaces at 975 K. Silicon is supplied by disilane. Several monolayers of deposited C leading to ∼1 nm thick Si1−xCx, with 0.3
Monoclonal antibodies specific for rat relaxin. VIII. Passive immunization with monoclonal antibodies throughout the second half of pregnancy reduces water consumption in rats

Recent studies demonstrated that exogenous relaxin promoted drinking in nonpregnant rats. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the influence of endogenous relaxin on water consumption in pregnant rats. To that end, a monoclonal antibody specific for rat relaxin, designated MCA1, was used to passively neutralize endogenous relaxin throughout the second half of pregnancy in intact rats. Five milligrams of highly purified MCA1 were administrated iv to rats daily from days 12-22 of pregnancy. Controls received either a monoclonal antibody for fluorescein (monoclonal antibody control) or PBS (vehicle control). The amount of water consumed and both the total duration of water consumption and the total number of episodes when water was consumed were determined daily during both dark and light periods for all treatment groups. From days 13-22 of pregnancy, all three of these parameters of water consumption increased during the 10-h dark period (P < 0.01), but not during the 14-h light period. The me...
Skeletal morphogenesis in the urodele skull: III. Effect of hormone dosage in TH-induced remodeling.

This study examines the dosage dependency of thyroid hormone (TH)-mediated remodelling in the cranial skeleton of the hemidactyliine plethodontid urodele, Eurycea bislineata. One set of experiments quantifies morphogenetic responses in 21 tissues for four size-age classes of larvae immersed in four different T4 concentrations. A second set varies both the period and concentration of T4 treatment to evaluate the effect of different TH profiles on adult tissue shape. The tissues surveyed in this study exhibit a 100-fold range in TH sensitivity. Those in regressive morphogenesis have tissue-specific sensitivities which correlate with the timing of their remodelling in natural development: bone resorption is more sentitive than cartilage resorption and is initiated earlier in metamorphosis. In contrast, the TH sensitivities of tissues in progressive morphogenesis vary within each tissue type and even within some tissues, and they do not correlate with timing in natural development. Some explanation for this discrepancy is offered by the constant spatial and temporal relationships between nasal cartilage and dermal bone, which suggest that some TH-mediated ossification may additionally require induction by cartilage. Also, the failure of nasolacrimal duct morphogenesis at all but the lowest dosage correlates with the inductdion of integumentary changes that may preclude duct formation. Variable T4 treatments produce no effect upon the adult skull, other than loss of the nasolacrimal duct and/or foramen. These results have two developmental implicatons. First, the dosage dependencies of the nasolacrimal duct, ossification sequences, and cranial remodelling patterns all support a TH profile with exceptionally low levels at larval stages and at least a 100-fold increase at metamorphosis. Second, a small change in the rate of TH activity has the potential to effect a large-scale rearranggement and restructuring of TH-dependent remodelling. The lack of such transformations in metamorphic plethodontids suggests that TH activity is highly conserved in this group. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Unnatural amino acid mutagenesis in mapping ion channel function.

Abstract Unnatural amino acid mutagenesis makes possible the site-specific incorporation of synthetic amino acids, enabling detailed structure–function studies as well as the incorporation of biophysical probes. This method has been adapted for use with heterologous expression in Xenopus oocytes, allowing experiments on ion channels.
AN IMPROVED, RAPID NORTHERN PROTOCOL

We report a simple, sensitive and rapid method for performing Northern blotting analysis which avoids the use of toxic chemicals such as formamide and glyoxal. This technique allows sensitive detection of various transcripts from total RNA samples varying from 10 microg to 2.5 microg. These samples were probed for GAPDH and VCAM mRNA message using this technique and show similar results as conventional Northern blotting methods. In addition, this protocol can be accomplished much faster than the traditional formamide/formaldehyde or glyoxal protocols. This protocol can be easily implemented by most laboratories using inexpensive and reagents less toxic than those commonly used for RNA analysis.
The Effect of Urethral Lengthening

Summary The isolated dog's urethra was found to lengthen when inflated, which indicates that the circumferential elements are stronger than the longitudinal ones. When the urethra was mechanically lengthened, urethral closure pressure was decreased. Pelvic floor contraction, and vesical suspension operations, which support the bladder base and lengthen the urethra, must enhance continence by their influence on the bladder neck, and not by their effect on urethral length.
Levothyroxine replacement dosage determination after thyroidectomy

Abstract Background The goal of this study was to identify a simple and effective way of calculating levothyroxine doses for postsurgical hypothyroidism. Methods Levothyroxine dosage was calculated using a weight (μg/kg)-based formula for patients who underwent thyroidectomy for benign disease from 2001 to 2011. Other formulas using age, sex, ideal body weight, body mass index, and body surface area were also evaluated. Results Four hundred four patients were included; 85% were women. The mean initial levothyroxine dosage was 1.4 μg/kg, which resulted in thyroid-stimulating hormone normalization in 59%, suppression in 23%, and elevation in 18% of patients. After dose adjustments, the mean therapeutic levothyroxine doses after total thyroidectomy and lobectomy were 1.5 and 1.3 μg/kg, respectively. A regression model incorporating other patient factors did not produce a more reliable dosing regimen. Conclusion A 1.5- and 1.3-μg/kg dosage calculation based on actual weight is currently the best estimation for levothyroxine replacement therapy after thyroidectomy.
Unfolding rates for the diffusion-collision model.

In the diffusion-collision model, the unfolding rates are given by the likelihood of secondary structural cluster dissociation. In this work, we introduce an unfolding rate calculation for proteins whose secondary structural elements are $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ helices, modeled from thermal escape over a barrier that arises from the free energy in buried hydrophobic residues. Our results are in good agreement with currently accepted values for the attempt rate.
Laparoscopic nephrectomy and autotransplantation for severe iatrogenic ureteral injuries

Abstract Objectives. To evaluate the efficacy of laparoscopic nephrectomy with autotransplantation in cases of severe proximal ureteral damage. Many patients with complex proximal ureteral injuries have good functional renal parenchyma and wish to salvage their kidney. Autotransplantation is a viable alternative to nephrectomy in these frustrating situations. Methods. Two patients, aged 32 and 36 years, underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy and autotransplantation for treatment of severe proximal ureteral injuries. The injuries included a ureteropelvic junction avulsion and a proximal ureteral avulsion, respectively. Both patients had good functional renal parenchyma. A transperitoneal laparoscopic approach was used, and the kidney was removed by way of a Gibson incision. Results. The procedures were successful, with immediate return of renal function in both patients. A pyeloureterostomy to the native distal ipsilateral ureter was required in one and a direct ureterovesical anastomosis was performed in the other. In the 2 patients, the warm ischemia time was 4.5 and 4 minutes, the transplant operative time 175 and 150 minutes, and the estimated blood loss 150 and 75 mL, respectively. No intraoperative complications occurred. At follow-up, the kidneys were functional, and the patients had returned to their normal activity. Conclusions. Laparoscopic nephrectomy with autotransplantation is an excellent alternative to nephrectomy or bowel interposition in patients with proximal ureteral loss, irrespective of the contralateral renal function. This procedure is associated with acceptable morbidity and preserves the renal function. This approach is desirable in those patients who have had complications from other surgical procedures and are otherwise facing the loss of a normally functioning kidney.
The relationship of gender and topic intimacy to decisions to seek advice from parents

This study explored the impact that respondent gender, parent gender, and perceptions about a topic's intimacy had upon 311 undergraduate students’ likelihood of seeking advice from their parents. Overall, respondents felt they were more likely to seek advice about low‐ than high‐intimacy topics. Both sons and daughters reported a higher likelihood of seeking maternal than paternal advice. However, respondents did indicate a willingness to seek paternal advice in certain conditions. Sons were more likely than daughters to seek advice from fathers about high‐ intimacy topics; daughters were more likely than sons to seek advice from fathers about topics low in intimacy. Possible explanations for and implications of these findings are discussed.
Investigating the Psychological Effects of News Imagery: A Case for Evidence-based Decision Making and Practices

Many professions embrace using objective data from strong empirical research as a basis for best practices. Visual communication gatekeepers, largely guided by qualitative research, may benefit from using this kind of hard data more often to help them understand the psychological impact of their image choices. Quantitative methods, commonly used in psychology, can provide a framework for investigating the effects images have on human comprehension and behavior. Substantial empirical research already exists and can be applied to important issues faced every day in the editorial decision-making process.
An experimental evaluation of nucleotide enhancement techniques for kidney transplantation.

Abstract The effect of various nucleotide-enhancing agents on renal function and intracellular nucleotide levels was evaluated in a canine autotransplant model. Thirty-five dogs (18–28 kg) underwent left nephrectomy and 30 min of warm ischemia followed by Collins C-4 flush and 24 hr of cold-storage preservation. Heterotopic autotransplantation and immediate contralateral nephrectomy was then performed. Seven equal groups were evaluated: group A—controls, group B—adenosine pretreatment (1.0 g), group C—dipyridamole pretreatment (10 mg), group D—adenosine (1.0 g), and dipyridamole (10 mg) pretreatment, group E—adenosine (200 mg) and EHNA (2.5 mg/kg) pretreatment, group F—adenosine (200 mg) and EHNA (2.5 mg/kg) in the Collins C-4 flush, and group G—adenosine (200 mg) and EHNA (2.5 mg/kg) at the time of autotransplantation. All kidneys underwent cortical biopsies at the end of preservation and 1 hr after restoration of blood flow for determinations of AMP, ADP, and ATP. In the pretreatment groups (groups B through E) there was 60% graft survival whereas the controls (group A) and the groups treated after ischemia (groups F and G) had 0, 0, and 20% graft survival, respectively. In groups B and E, ATP levels were greater than controls after preservation and 1 hr after restoration of blood flow. Group C AMP and ADP levels and group D energy charge were greater than controls in the post-transplantation biopsies. Administration of adenosine and EHNA after ischemia was not associated with increased intracellular nucleotide levels. One hour post-transplantation biopsies demonstrated greater ability to regenerate cortical nucleotides in the surviving animals but no absolute value could be identified as a predictor of viability. In conclusion, pretreatment with adenosine, dipyridamole, and EHNA alone and in combination is beneficial in ischemically injured kidneys undergoing cold-storage preservation.
Using a Knife Slitting Test to Characterize the Fracture Resistance of Proton Exchange Membranes

Through-the-thickness flaws or “pinholes” in proton exchange membranes (PEM) can lead to gas crossover, reducing fuel cell efficiency, accelerating degradation, and raising safety issues. The multi-physics process that causes these flaws is not fully understood, but stress state, environmental exposure, and cyclic operation may all be contributing factors. Fracture mechanics has proven to be useful in characterizing degradation of many materials, including polymers subjected to environmental challenges. Although unclear if pinhole formation can be successfully characterized and predicted from a fracture perspective, this study continues our prior work to characterize PEMs in such a manner. Because of the lack of constraint, thin films often exhibit very high fracture energies and large plastic zones, features that are not consistent with observations of PEM failures. In an effort to obtain the fracture energy with very little dissipation, knife-slitting tests were conducted to reduce the crack tip plasticity. With modifications made to the systems used by Wang and Gent (1994) and by Dillard et al (2005), a slitter that maintains a constant tearing angle during the slitting process was developed. While fracture energies on the order of 104 J/m2 were measured with double edge notched test samples, and on the order of 103 J/m2 were measured with trouser tear samples, the knife slit test resulted in fracture energies as low as several hundred J/m2 . An environmental chamber was used to enclose the slitting process so experiments at elevated temperature and moisture levels could be conducted. The relevance of these fracture energies to observed PEM failures in operating fuel cells is not fully understood. Nonetheless, the ability to obtain fracture energies approaching the intrinsic fracture energy of these ductile membranes is believed to be useful in studying what appear to be more brittle fracture modes that have been observed in PEMs.Copyright © 2006 by General Motors Corporation