bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estrogen Up-Regulates Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase, Nitric Oxide, and Cyclooxygenase-2 in Splenocytes Activated with T Cell Stimulants: Role of Interferon-γ
Authors: Karpuzoglu Ebru , Fenaux Jillian B. , Phillips Rebecca A. , Lengi Andrea J. , Elvinger François , Ansar Ahmed S.
Published: November 2005

Estrogen is implicated in many autoimmune diseases and is a robust immunomodulator. For example, it regulates interferon (IFN)-γ, a cytokine believed to up-regulate inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). A notable gap in the literature is a lack of information on the regulation of nitric oxide in immune tissues by estrogen. We now show that activation of splenocytes with T cell stimulants [concanavalin-A (Con-A) or anti-CD3 antibodies] results in copious release of nitric oxide in splenocyte cultures from estrogen-treated but not placebo-treated mice. Moreover, even a low dose of T cell stimulants induced nitric oxide in splenocytes from estrogen-treated, but not placebo-treated, mice. Con-A-activated splenocytes from estrogen-treated mice also have up-regulated iNOS mRNA, iNOS protein, and cyclooxygenase-2 (a nitric oxide-regulated downstream proinflammatory protein) when compared with controls. Our studies suggest that the induction of nitric oxide by activated splenocytes from estrogen-treated mice is mediated in part by IFNγ. First, blocking costimulatory signals mediated through interactions of CD28 and B7 molecules by CTLA-4Ig markedly decreased not only IFNγ but also nitric oxide. Second, estrogen treatment of IFNγ-knockout (IFNγ−/−) mice did not induce iNOS protein or nitric oxide. Finally, in vitro addition of recombinant IFNγ to Con-A-activated splenocytes from IFNγ(−/−) mice induced iNOS protein primarily in estrogen-treated mice. Overall, this is the first report to show that estrogen treatment up-regulates IFNγ-inducible-iNOS gene expression, iNOS protein, nitric oxide, and cyclooxygenase-2 as an indirect consequence of activation of T cells. These findings may have wide implications to immunity and inflammatory disorders including female-predominant autoimmune diseases.
Possible Involvement of Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptide 1c1 in the Photoperiodic Response of Gonads in Birds
Authors: Nakao Nobuhiro , Takagi Tsuyoshi , Iigo Masayuki , Tsukamoto Toshiro , Yasuo Shinobu , Masuda Tomohiro , Yanagisawa Tadashi , Ebihara Shizufumi , Yoshimura Takashi
Published: November 2005

The photoperiodic response of the gonads requires T3, which is generated photoperiodically from T4 by type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase in the hypothalamus. Although thyroid hormones were long thought to traverse the plasma membrane by passive diffusion due to their lipophilic nature, it is now known that several organic anion transporting polypeptides (Oatp) transport thyroid hormones into target cells. In this study, we have used database searches to isolate DNA sequences encoding members of the chicken Oatp family and constructed a molecular phylogenetic tree. Comprehensive expression analyses using in situ hybridization revealed strong expression of cOatp1c1 and weak expression of cOatp1b1 in the ventro-lateral walls of basal tuberal hypothalamus, whereas expression of four genes (cOatp1a1, cOatp1b1, cOatp1c1, and cOatp3a2) was observed in the choroid plexus. Expression levels of all these genes in both regions were not different between short-day and long-day conditions. Functional expression of cOatp1c1 in Chinese hamster ovary cells revealed that cOatp1c1 is a highly specific transporter for T4 with an apparent Km of 6.8 nm and a Vmax of 1.50 pmol per milligram of protein per minute. These results suggest that cOatp1c1 could be involved in the thyroxine transport necessary for the avian photoperiodic response of the gonads.
Gonadotropin-Inhibitory Hormone Inhibits Gonadal Development and Maintenance by Decreasing Gonadotropin Synthesis and Release in Male Quail
Authors: Ubuka Takayoshi , Ukena Kazuyoshi , Sharp Peter J. , Bentley George E. , Tsutsui Kazuyoshi
Published: November 2005

Until recently, any neuropeptide that directly inhibits gonadotropin secretion had not been identified. We recently identified a novel hypothalamic dodecapeptide that directly inhibits gonadotropin release in quail and termed it gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH). The action of GnIH on the inhibition of gonadotropin release is mediated by a novel G protein-coupled receptor in the quail pituitary. This new gonadotropin inhibitory system is considered to be a widespread property of birds and provides us with an unprecedented opportunity to study the regulation of avian reproduction from an entirely novel standpoint. To understand the physiological role(s) of GnIH in avian reproduction, we investigated GnIH actions on gonadal development and maintenance in male quail. Continuous administration of GnIH to mature birds via osmotic pumps for 2 wk decreased the expressions of gonadotropin common α and LHβ subunit mRNAs in a dose-dependent manner. Plasma LH and testosterone concentrations were also decreased dose dependently. Furthermore, administration of GnIH to mature birds induced testicular apoptosis and decreased spermatogenic activity in the testis. In immature birds, daily administration of GnIH for 2 wk suppressed normal testicular growth and rise in plasma testosterone concentrations. An inhibition of juvenile molt also occurred after GnIH administration. These results indicate that GnIH inhibits gonadal development and maintenance through the decrease in gonadotropin synthesis and release. GnIH may explain the phenomenon of photoperiod-induced gonadal regression before an observable decline in hypothalamic GnRH in quail. To our knowledge, GnIH is the first identified hypothalamic neuropeptide inhibiting reproductive function in any vertebrate class.
Multiple-Depot Integrated Vehicle and Crew Scheduling
Authors: Huisman Dennis , Freling Richard , Wagelmans Albert P. M.
Published: November 2005

This paper presents two different models and algorithms for integrated vehicle and crew scheduling in the multiple-depot case. The algorithms are both based on a combination of column generation and Lagrangian relaxation.

Furthermore, we compare those integrated approaches with each other and with the traditional sequential one on randomly generated, as well as real-world, data instances for a suburban/extraurban mass transit system. To simulate such a transit system, we propose a new way of randomly generating data instances such that their properties are the same as for our real-world instances.
Solving Real-Life Locomotive-Scheduling Problems
Authors: Ahuja Ravindra K. , Liu Jian , Orlin James B. , Sharma Dushyant , Shughart Larry A.
Published: November 2005

In the locomotive-scheduling problem (or the locomotive-assignment problem), we must assign a consist (a set of locomotives) to each train in a preplanned train schedule so as to provide each train with sufficient locomotive power to pull the train from its origin to its destination. Locomotive-scheduling problems are among the most important problems in railroad scheduling. In this paper, we report the results of a study on the locomotive-scheduling problem as it is faced by CSX Transportation, a major U.S. railroad company. We consider the planning version of the locomotive-scheduling model (LSM) in which multiple types of locomotives exist, and we need to decide which set of locomotives should be assigned to each train. We present an integrated model that determines: the set of active and deadheaded locomotives for each train; the light-traveling locomotives from power sources to power sinks; and train-to-train connections (for which we specify which inbound trains and outbound trains can directly connect). An important feature of our model is that we explicitly consider consist bustings and consistency. A consist is said to be busted when a set of locomotives coming on an inbound train is broken into subsets to be reassigned to two or more outbound trains. A solution is consistent over a week if a train receives the same locomotive assignment each day that it runs. We will provide a mixed-integer programming (MIP) formulation of the locomotive-assignment problem. However, an MIP of this size cannot be solved to optimality or near optimality in acceptable running times using commercially available software. Using problem decomposition, integer programming, and very large-scale neighborhood search, we have developed a solution technique to solve this problem within 30 minutes of computation time on a Pentium III computer. Our solution obtained a potential savings of over 400 locomotives over the solution obtained by the in-house software developed by CSX.
Cross section data for the production of the positron emitting niobium isotope 90Nb via the 90Zr(p, n)-reaction
Authors: Busse S. , Rösch Frank , Qaim Syed M.
Published: November 2005

The radioisotope 90Nb decays with a positron branching of 53% and a relatively low β+-energy of E
mean = 0.66 MeV and E
max = 1.5 MeV. Its half-life of 14.6 h makes it especially promising for quantitative investigation of biological processes with slow distribution kinetics using positron emission tomography. To optimise its production, the excitation functions of 90Zr(p, xn)-processes were studied over the proton energy range of 7.5 to 19 MeV via the stacked-foil technique using both natZr and 99.22% enriched 90ZrO2 as targets. Thick target yields of 90Nb were calculated from the measured excitation functions and were verified experimentally. The optimum energy range for the production of 90Nb via the 90Zr(p, n)-process was found to be E
p = 17 → 7 MeV, with a yield of 600 MBq 90Nb/µA h. The yield and radionuclidic purity of 90Nb over the energy range of E
p = 17.6 → 8.1 MeV were determined experimentally using natZr. At 4 h after EOB the yield of 90Nb was found to be 290 MBq/µA h and its radionuclidic purity ≥ 95%.
Investigation of sorption of Tb(III) by 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone supported onto polyurethane foam
Authors: Saeed Muhammad M. , Rusheed A.
Published: November 2005

The sorption studies Tb(III) was investigated on HTTA loaded PUR foam. The adsorption conditions were optimized with respect to pH, shaking time, loading capacity and adsorbent weight. The adsorption data followed the classical Freundlich and Langmuir type isotherms successfully. The Freundlich constant (1/n) is estimated to be 0.47 ± 0.01, reflects a surface heterogeneity of the PUR foam. Langmuir isotherm gives a saturated capacity of 0.042 ± 0.001 mmole g−1 which suggests a monolayer coverage of the surface. The Dubinin-Radushkevich (D–R) isotherm is applied and the sorption mean free energy (E) is calculated and found to be 11.32 ± 0.14 kJ mol−1 suggesting that chemisorption involving chemical bonding is responsible for the adsorption process. The isosteric heat of adsorption of Tb(III) is high which decipher the surface heterogeneity, new bond formation and endothermic type chemisorption. The thermodynamics parameters such as enthalpy (Δ H), entropy (Δ S) and Gibbs free energy (Δ G) were calculated and interpreted. The positive values of Δ H indicate that the adsorption of metal ions on HTTA-loaded PUR foam is an endothermic process. A possible explanation of this endothermicity and sorption mechanism have been discussed. The selectivity and sensitivity of the adsorbent was also studied. The sorption of Tb(III) is greatly affected in the presence of oxalate and fluoride. The sorptive affinity of different cations towards HTTA loaded PUR foam was also discussed.
Selective carrier-mediated cesium transport through polymer inclusion membranes by calix[4]arene-crown-6 carriers from complex aqueous mixtures
Authors: Levitskaia T. G. , Lamb J. D. , Fox K. L. , Moyer B. A.
Published: November 2005

Competitive Cs+ ion transport by polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) with bis(dodecyloxy)calix[4]arene-crown-6 or calix[4]arene-biscrown-6 was investigated under various conditions. The PIM matrix consisted of cellulose triacetate and ortho-nitrophenyloctyl ether. Special attention was paid to PIM performance employing complex source-phase mixtures, including simulant solutions of acidic nuclear wastes present at Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory. PIMs exhibited highly efficient and selective Cs+ transport under competitive conditions. Membranes containing calix-monocrown carrier exhibited slightly less efficient but more selective Cs+ transport than those with calix-biscrown carrier. PIMs with bis(dodecyloxy)calix[4]arene-crown-6 exhibited excellent stability in terms of carrier loss to the aqueous phase. The variation of cesium transport with composition of aqueous phase was adequately described by a diffusion-limited transport model.
Transuranic elements determination in spanish NPP-wastes on the basis of gross alpha activity
Authors: Rodríguez M. , Gascón J. L.
Published: November 2005

The characterisation of alpha-emitting nuclides in low and medium level radioactive waste from Spanish nuclear power reactors leads to several difficulties because they cannot be assayed by non-destructive methods due to their low concentration. Thus, long and complex radiochemical procedures are required.

In this paper an alternative method for establishing a sufficiently accurate and reliable inventory of long-lived alpha emitting nuclides, is described. The method is based on the application of the factors obtained by correlating the gross alpha activity and the concentration of 238Pu, 239/40Pu, 241Am, 242Cm and 244Cm in a set of samples of concentrates and resins from Spanish NPP's.

Several statistical tests are performed to evaluate the validity of the assumed relationship and the quality of the correlation. Also, uncertainties are calculated for the parameters of the linear equation relating the concentrations.

This work has been performed in the framework of the CIEMAT-ENRESA Association Agreement.
Chemical isolation of dubnium (element 105) in fluoride media
Authors: Trubert D. , Naour C. Le , Guzman F. M. , Hussonnois M. , Brillard L. , Le Du J. F. , Constantinescu O. , Gasparro J. , Barci V. , Weiss B. , Ardisson G.
Published: November 2005

The isotope262Db was produced by irradiation of a248Cm target with 106-MeV19F ions at the 15 MV MP Tandem accelerator of Orsay (France). The reaction products were continuously and rapidly transported with a KCl aerosol helium jet system to the chemistry setup. They were dissolved in HF medium and the solution was passed through three successive ion exchange columns, allowing a continuous high level purification of Db from actinides on a first cation exchange column, the isolation of Db on an anion exchange one, and the retention of the long-lived decay products of262Db (3.24 h–254Fm) on a second cation exchange column. Just after the end of irradiation, the decay products were desorbed from this column, purified and α-sources were prepared on carbon foil by electrospray. In 13 effective irradiation hours, 22 events corresponding to the α-decay of254Fm were recorded. Almost 70 atoms of262Db, produced in the reaction248Cm +19F were isolated in dilute HF medium. Like its homologues/analogues Nb, Ta and Pa, dubnium forms, with fluoride ions, negatively charged complexes which are strongly retained on anion exchanger.
Direct separation of plutonium by thermochromatography from environmental samples
Authors: Wacker L. , Krähenbühl U. , Eichler B.
Published: November 2005

A thermochromatographic separation was performed on plutonium from environmental soil samples. This procedure was investigated with the goal to measure low concentrations of plutonium by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The soil sample was chlorinated by thionylchloride as reactive gas at a temperature of 1400 K. The volatile chlorides were separated chromatographically and deposited in a temperature gradient tube filled with quartz grains. Results about the deposition behaviour of the elements were obtained. Two different formalisms based on the thermodynamic functions are used to describe the experimental data. One formula is used to describe the deposition behaviour of microscopic amounts of plutonium (adsorption), the other formula for macroamounts of the main matrix elements (desublimation). The calculated values are in a reasonable agreement with the experimental data. A determination of plutonium content was successfully made for a referenced sea sediment (IAEA-135) after the thermochromatographic sample preparation for ICP-MS.
Studies on the supercritical fluid extraction of uranium from tissue matrix
Authors: Kumar R. , Sivaraman N. , Srinivasan T. G. , Vasudeva Rao P. R.
Published: November 2005

Extraction of uranium from tissue matrix was studied using supercritical carbon dioxide containing modifier solvent. The extraction efficiency was investigated with carbon dioxide containing methanol, tri-n-octyl phosphine oxide (TOPO) in methanol and tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) in methanol as modifiers. The extraction behaviour of the UO2(NO3)2 · 2TOPO complex loaded on tissue was also investigated. Supercritical carbon dioxide modified with methanol alone was found to extract a maximum of about 76% uranium from tissue matrix.
Study of uranyl(VI) malonate complexation by time resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (TRLFS)
Authors: Brachmann A. , Geipel Gerhard , Bernhard G. , Nitsche Heino
Published: November 2005

The uranyl(VI) malonate complex formation was studied by time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy (TRLFS) at pH 4 and an ionic strength of 0.1 M NaClO4. The uranium concentration was 5 × 10−6M at ligand concentrations from 1 × 10−5to 1 ×−2M.

The measured fluorescence lifetimes of the 1:1 and 1:2 uranyl(VI) malonate complexes are 1.24 ± 0.02 µs and 6.48 ± 0.02 µs, respectively. The fluorescence lifetime of the uranyl(VI) ion is 1.57 ± 0.06 µs in 0.1 M perchloric media. The main fluorescence bands of the malonate complexes show a bathochromic shift compared to the uranyl(VI) ion and are centered at 494 nm, 515 nm and 540 nm for the 1:1 complexes and at 496 nm, 517 nm and 542 nm for the 1:2 complex. The spectra of the individual uranyl(VI) malonate complexes were calculated using a multi exponential fluorescence decay function for each intensity value at each wavelength, covering the entire wavelength range. Stability constants were determined for the complexes UO2C3H2O4°(aq)and UO2(C3H2O4)22−from results of spectra deconvolution using a least square fit algorithm (logβ1° = 4.48 ± 0.06, logβ2° = 7.42 ± 0.06 or logK2° = 2.94 ± 0.04). The results are compared with literature values obtained by potentiometric measurements.
Studies on hydrolysis and radiolysis of N,N,N′,N′-tetraoctyl-3-oxapentane-1,5-diamide
Authors: Sugo Y. , Sasaki Y. , Tachimori S.
Published: November 2005

Hydrolytic and radiolytic stabilities of a promising extractant, N,N,N′,N′-tetraoctyl-3-oxapentane-1,5-diamide (TODGA), for actinides in high-level radioactive liquid waste from nuclear fuel reprocessing were investigated in air at room temperature. Hydrolysis by nitric acid was not observed, whereas radiolysis by gamma irradiation was notably observed. The radiolysis study showed that an amide-bond, an ether-bond, and a bond adjacent to the ether-bond tended to be broken by gamma irradiation, and dioctylamine and various N,N-dioctylmonoamides were identified as the main degradation products by GC/MS and NMR analyses. The G-value for degradation of neat TODGA was 8.5 ± 0.9, which value was higher than those for N,N′-dioctyl-N,N′-dimethyl-2-(3′-oxapentadecyl)-propane-1,3-diamide and N,N-dioctylhexanamide. It was obvious that n-dodecane, which was used for a diluent, had a sensitization effect on the radiolysis of these amidic extractants. In a TODGA–n-dodecane–HNO3 system, the coexisting nitric acid showed an insignificant effect on the radiolysis of TODGA.
Production of the positron emitter 51Mn via the 50Cr(d, n) reaction: targetry and separation of no-carrier-added radiomanganese
Authors: Klein A. T. J. , Rösch Frank , Coenen Heinz H. , Qaim Syed M.
Published: November 2005

In connection with the production of 46.2 min 51Mn via the 50Cr(d, n)-process, several separation techniques such as ion exchange chromatography, solid phase extraction, liquid–liquid extraction and co-precipitation have been investigated; the aim was to separate no-carrier-added radiomanganese from the bulk target chromium. Among the separation systems *MnII/CrIII, *MnII/CrVI and *MnIV/CrVI, the latter applying the co-precipitation of *MnIV with FeIII hydroxide was found to be the optimum; the removal of chromium was rapid and quantitative (remaining content <0.05%) and the separation efficiency was high (99.3% radiochemical yield of *Mn). For production purposes, a sandwiched pellet of the chemical composition Al4·50CrCl3 was developed as a new target. This allowed a quick dissolution after irradiation, thus enabling a fast separation of 51Mn and its production on a MBq scale. A 1 h irradiation at 3 µA (wobbled beam) over an effective deuteron energy range of E
d = 12.8 → 7.9 MeV yielded 107 MBq 51Mn. Simultaneously formed nuclides of other elements, such as 38Cl, 24Na, 48V and 51Cr were quantitatively separated using the proposed procedure. Only the shorter-lived radioisotope 52mMn, formed via the 52Cr(d, 2n)52mMn reaction, was present at a low level of 2%, if the enrichment of 50Cr was 95% (with ∼5% 52Cr).
Lope de Vega'sRimas sacras:Conversion, Clientage, and the Performance of Masculinity
Authors: Weber Alison
Published: November 2005

In 1614 Lope de Vega, recently ordained, published theRimas sacras,a confessionalcanzonierereplete with allusions to his past promiscuity and recent religious conversion. I argue that Lope addressed his collection not only to a public of anonymous readers but also to a specific, private reader: his patron, the duke of Sessa. For the previous eight years, Lope had served as Sessa's erotic amanuensis, writing love letters and poems for the duke's various mistresses. I propose that the collection as a whole and several sonnets in particular constitute an implicit reproach to Sessa. Through his religious poetry, Lope sought to repudiate his degraded masculine identity as the duke's epistolary pimp (and reputed lover) and affirm his status as a priest who served a more exalted and loving patron. In theRimas sacras,the discourses of clientage and Petrarchan love are imbricated in the dominant religious discourse, rendering it more available for contestatory practices than is often recognized.
Working Through the Archive: Trauma and History in Alejandro Morales'sThe Rag Doll Plagues
Authors: Franco Dean
Published: November 2005

Alejandro Morales'sThe Rag Doll Plaguesis a metafictional novel that comments on literary history. In its three books, Dr. Gregory Revueltas battles a mysterious and ravaging plague, during the 1780s, 1980s, and mid–twenty-first century. In each book he leaves a legacy of writing for the next Gregory to read. By reading and writing this archive, or library of cultural knowledge, the final Gregory develops a historical consciousness that helps him see beyond his episteme's limited science and derive a cure for the recurring plague. His confronting the plague by reading his own writing both intimately and critically is an allegory for the efficacy of literature as a response to historical trauma. Gregory does not gain agency over history, but through the self-conscious reading of his archive he is able to place himself in a cultural trajectory otherwise inaccessible in each book's bracketed historical moment.
Identification of a Primitive Brain–Derived Neural Stem Cell Population Based on Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Activity
Authors: Corti Stefania , Locatelli Federica , Papadimitriou Dimitra , Donadoni Chiara , Salani Sabrina , Del Bo Roberto , Strazzer Sandra , Bresolin Nereo , Comi Giacomo P.
Published: November 2005

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells defined by their ability to self-renew and differentiate to progenitors and terminally differentiated cells. Stem cells have been isolated from almost all tissues, and an emerging idea is that they share common characteristics such as the presence of ATP-binding cassette transporter G2 and high telomerase and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity, raising the hypothesis of a set of universal stem cell markers. In the present study, we describe the isolation of primitive neural stem cells (NSCs) from adult and embryonic murine neurospheres and dissociated tissue, based on the expression of high levels of ALDH activity. Single-cell suspension was stained with a fluorescent ALDH substrate termed Aldefluor and then analyzed by flow cytometry. A population of cells with low side scatter (SSClo) and bright ALDH (ALDHbr) activity was isolated. SSCloALDHbr cells are capable of self-renewal and are able to generate new neurospheres and neuroepithelial stem-like cells. Furthermore, these cells are multipotent, differentiating both in neurons and macroglia, as determined by immunocytochemistry and real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction analysis. To evaluate the engraftment potential of SSCloALDHbr cells in vivo, we transplanted them into mouse brain. Donor-derived neurons with mature morphology were detected in the cortex and subcortical areas, demonstrating the capacity of this cell population to differentiate appropriately in vivo. The ALDH expression assay is an effective method for direct identification of NSCs, and improvement of the stem cell isolation protocol may be useful in the development of a cell-mediated therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases.
A Crosstalk Between Myeloma Cells and Marrow Stromal Cells Stimulates Production of DKK1 and Interleukin-6: A Potential Role in the Development of Lytic Bone Disease and Tumor Progression in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Gunn William G. , Conley Adam , Deininger Lisa , Olson Scott D. , Prockop Darwin J. , Gregory Carl A.
Published: November 2005

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignancy of antibody-secreting plasma cells. B-cell plasmacytomas stimulate bone resorption and angiogenesis, resulting in osteolytic lesions in the skeleton which persist upon successful treatment of the malignancy with chemotherapy. We found that an interaction between MM cells and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from bone marrow stroma results in the formation and persistence of osteolytic bone lesions. It is known that MM cells activate osteoclast activity and secrete high levels of the Wnt inhibitor, Dickkopf-1, which prevents MSCs from differentiating into osteoblasts. We show that the Wnt signaling activator 6-bromoindirubin-3′-monoxime (BIO) releases MSCs from the osteoinhibitory effects of Dickkopf-1, whereas LiCl treatment does not. Additionally, we show that the >5-kDa fraction of MSC-conditioned medium promotes the proliferation of Dickkopf-1-secreting MM cells and that an interleukin-6 (IL-6)-neutralizing antibody blocks this effect. IL-6 expression levels were higher in undifferentiated MSCs than in MSCs treated with osteogenic medium, remained high in the presence of Dkk1, and were reduced by BIO treatment. Therefore, BIO treatment reduces the MSC-stimulated proliferation of MM cells and may enable MSCs to repair existing osteolytic lesions.
Characterization of a New NIH-Registered Variant Human Embryonic Stem Cell Line, BG01V: A Tool for Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research
Authors: Plaia Todd W. , Josephson Richard , Liu Ying , Zeng Xianmin , Ording Carol , Toumadje Arazdordi , Brimble Sandii N. , Sherrer Eric S. , Uhl Elizabeth W. , Freed William J. , Schulz Thomas C. , Maitra Anirban , Rao Mahendra S. , Auerbach Jonathan M.
Published: November 2005

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) offer a renewable source of a wide range of cell types for use in research and cell-based therapies. Characterizing these cells provides important information about their current state and affords relevant details for subsequent manipulations. For example, identifying genes expressed during culture, as well as their temporal expression order after passaging and conditions influencing the formation of all three germ layers may be helpful for the production of functional beta islet cells used in treating type I diabetes. Although several hESC lines have demonstrated karyotypic instability during extended time in culture, select variant lines exhibit characteristics similar to their normal parental lines. Such variant lines may be excellent tools and abundant sources of cells for pilot studies and in vitro differentiation research in which chromosome number is not a concern, similar to the role currently played by embryonal carcinoma cell lines. It is crucial that the cells be surveyed at a genetic and proteomic level during extensive propagation, expansion, and manipulation in vitro. Here we describe a comprehensive characterization of the variant hESC line BG01V, which was derived from the karyotypically normal, parental hESC line BG01. Our characterization process employs cytogenetic analysis, short tandem repeat and HLA typing, mitochondrial DNA sequencing, gene expression analysis using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and microarray, assessment of telomerase activity, methylation analysis, and immunophenotyping and teratoma formation, in addition to screening for bacterial, fungal, mycoplasma, and human pathogen contamination.
Calibration of the Root Zone Water Quality Model for Simulating Tile Drainage and Leached Nitrate in the Georgia Piedmont
Authors: Abrahamson D. A. , Radcliffe D. E. , Steiner J. L. , Cabrera M. L. , Hanson J. D. , Rojas K. W. , Schomberg H. H. , Fisher D. S. , Schwartz L. , Hoogenboom G.
Published: November 2005

Calibration procedures and data used to parameterize a model, including model components that may or may not have been addressed, are generally not well documented in modeling studies. A comprehensive description of the process and parameters used for calibrating the Root Zone Water Quality Model, v. 1.3.2004.213, is presented in this article. The model was calibrated to simulate tile drainage and leached nitrate under conventional tillage management practices for maize (Zea maysL.) production followed by a rye (Secale cerealeL.) cover crop in Cecil soils (kaolinitic, thermic, Typic Kanhapludults), and for cotton (Gossypium hirsutumL.) development in the Georgia Piedmont. Tile drainage and nitrate leaching were simulated within 15% of the observed values in the calibrated maize scenarios with and without the soil macroporosity option. Simulated and observed tile drainage and leached nitrate were not significantly different, and the simulated values were not significantly different with and without the macroporosity option. Simulated cotton biomass and leaf area index were well correlated with observed biomass and leaf area index until the last 21 d of the reproductive stage. Simulated and observed cotton water use were different by <1 mm d−1based on Δ soil water in a 60‐cm profile during the critical peak bloom period. A detailed analysis of the calibration procedure and parameters used in this study will aid subsequent users of the model as well as aid in a subsequent evaluation of the model's performance for simulations of tile drainage and nitrate leaching in Georgia Piedmont cotton production systems.
Growth and Yield Response to Simulated Hail Damage in Guar
Authors: Sij John W. , Ott Jason P. , Olson Brian L. S. , Baughman Todd A.
Published: November 2005

Hail damage can result in substantial economic loss to annual spring and summer crops. Crop insurance guidelines to assess hail damage on major crops are readily available to adjusters. However, research and guidelines to assess hail damage on minor crops is lacking and may limit their expansion. A dryland field study with guar [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.] was designed to determine the effect of simulated hail damage at two growth stages and three levels of defoliation on plant regrowth and bean yield. Experiments were conducted on a Miles fine sandy loam (fine‐loamy, mixed, superactive, thermic Typic Paleustalfs) near Vernon, TX, from 2001 through 2003. A commercial grass trimmer was used to simulate hail damage by flailing plants to targeted defoliations levels of 33, 66, and 90% at 6 and 12 wk after emergence (WAE). Both final plant height and yield were reduced to a greater extent when plants were damaged at 12 WAE (grain‐fill period) than at 6 WAE (early flowering). Regression analysis from data combined over years showed that guar yields were reduced 50% with a 66% defoliation level at 6 WAE, but required only 42% defoliation to reduce yield levels 50% with late‐season defoliation. This is the first report of using a grass trimmer to simulate hail damage by shredding plant material rather than manually removing plants and plant parts. Results from this study also provide a basis for producers and insurance adjusters to quantify and estimate economic losses in guar due to hail damage at two growth stages.
Yield, Digestibility, and Nutritive Value of Crabgrass as Impacted by Nitrogen Fertilization Rate and Source
Authors: Teutsch Chris D. , Fike John H. , Mac Tilson W.
Published: November 2005

Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.), a summer annual grass capable of self reseeding, could provide high quality grazing, but little is known about its management in the mid‐Atlantic region. This study evaluated the effects of N fertilizer rates and sources on crabgrass yield and nutritive value. Plots were established in late spring of 2001–2003 near Blackstone, VA. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with a factorial treatment arrangement and four replications. Nitrogen rates ranging from 0 to 336 kg ha−1 were applied in 56‐kg intervals at seeding as ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) or broiler litter. Plots were harvested twice in 2001 and three times in 2002 and 2003. Yield increased with N rate for all harvests. Over years and N sources, seasonal yield ranged from 4.2 to 9.8 Mg ha−1. Maximum yield occurred at 300 kg N ha−1. Nitrogen source had little effect on yield but dramatically impacted forage nitrate levels. Over years and N sources mean in vitro true digestibility (IVTD) for first, second, and final harvests were 880, 871, and 786 g kg−1. In 2001 and 2003, first harvest IVTD was negatively correlated with N rate, but positively related at second harvest. Nitrogen source had little effect on IVTD. Over years, N rates, and N sources, CP concentrations at first, second, and final harvests were 105, 105, and 76 g kg−1. These data indicate that crabgrass is a productive and nutritious forage, and that readily available organic N sources such as broiler litter could be effectively utilized for its production.
Economic Evaluation of Soybean Fungicide Seed Treatments
Authors: Poag Paul Scott , Popp Michael , Rupe John , Dixon Bruce , Rothrock Craig , Boger Carol
Published: November 2005

The effects of fungicide seed treatments on seeding rate, location, simulated rainfall at emergence, time of planting, and seed quality were analyzed for soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] in this study. Variation in plant emergence allowed estimation of economically optimal seeding rates and partial returns (PR = Gross revenue − Seed cost) across seed treatment options. Study results proved a single seed treatment to be superior across most study conditions. In fact, a comparison of optimally treated to untreated seed revealed that a seemingly insignificant input in terms of cost (<$8.65 ha−1) enhanced profitability by an average of $43.71 ha−1 in this study. Using high rather than low quality treated seed increased producer returns by an average of $64.27 ha−1. Seeding rate recommendations need to be viewed with the precaution that added seed may be low cost insurance against lesser‐than‐expected survival rates. For the cultivar Hutcheson (MG V), planting in May compared with April and June provided better yields using less seed on average. Finally, as the planting season progressed, replanting plant population density thresholds decreased.
Rice Yield Components as Affected by Cultivar and Seeding Rate
Authors: Ottis Brian V. , Talbert Ronald E.
Published: November 2005

New rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars have been released that possess yield potential >10000 kg ha−1. Some of these new cultivars have increased costs associated with them due to patented input traits and/or hybrid technology. Research analyzing the effects of seeding rate on yield components with modern cultivars is not well‐documented. Therefore, field trials were conducted near Stuttgart, AR, in 2002 through 2004 with the objective of determining the effect of rice seeding rate on yield components of three modern, long‐grain rice cultivars. This research was done in an effort to determine if lower‐than‐recommended seeding rates would produce yields similar to currently recommended rates. Rice seeding rates from 57 to 500 seeds m−2 resulting in a rice density range of 73 to 373 plants m−2 did not effect rice aboveground biomass production, panicle density, harvest index (HI), or rice yield, regardless of cultivar. ‘Wells’ produced higher panicle weights and had a higher HI than ‘CL161’ across the range of rice densities. Cultivars XL8 and Wells produced similar yields, and these yields were higher than CL161. Cultivar, rice density, and thermal time were significant factors affecting rice canopy coverage. Cultivar XL8 achieved canopy coverage sooner than CL161 or Wells. As rice density increased, canopy coverage increased by 3% for every additional 100 plants m−2. As degree days (DD50) accumulated, canopy coverage increased 0.4% °Cd−1. Results from this study indicate that recommended seeding rates for CL161, Wells, and XL8 can be reduced while maintaining similar yields.
Nitrogen Fertilizer, Manure, and Compost Effects on Weed Growth and Competition with Spring Wheat
Authors: Blackshaw R. E.
Published: November 2005

Crop fertilization is an important component of integrated weed management systems. A field experiment was conducted to determine the effect of various application timing–tillage intensities and N sources on weed growth and spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield. Timing–tillage treatments consisted of applying the various N sources in either the previous fall or in spring each under zero‐till or tilled conditions. Nitrogen sources consisted of granular ammonium nitrate fertilizer applied either surface broadcast or subsurface banded 10 cm deep between every second wheat row, fresh cattle (Bos taurus) manure, and composted cattle manure. An unfertilized control also was included. Treatments were applied in four consecutive years to determine annual and cumulative effects. Subsurface‐banded N compared with broadcast N fertilizer often reduced N uptake by weeds, decreased weed biomass, and increased wheat yield. Weed N uptake and growth with fresh and composted manure tended to be intermediary between banded and broadcast N fertilizer in the initial year but was similar to or greater than that with broadcast N fertilizer in subsequent years. The gradual N release from manure and compost over years appeared to benefit weeds more than spring wheat. The ranking of the weed seedbank at the conclusion of the 4‐yr experiment was composted manure = fresh manure ≥ broadcast N fertilizer > banded N fertilizer. Information gained in this study will be utilized to develop more efficient fertilization strategies as components of integrated weed management programs in spring wheat production systems.
Effect of Water Saturation on Radiative Transfer
Authors: Bänninger Dominik , Lehmann Peter , Flühler Hannes , Tölke Jonas
Published: November 2005

Porous media such as tissues, soil materials, porous rocks, and concrete become darker with increasing water content. Most methods used to quantify this behavior are based on statistical models. Physical models have rarely been used for this purpose. In this study, we implemented a radiative transfer model to analyze the measured reflectance and transmittance of prepared moist soil slabs, accounting for the physical processes of light reflection, refraction, and absorption. We calculated the trace of numerous beams in the image of vertical slab cross sections. This image represents the spatial distribution of the solid, water, and air phase in the soil slab. We implemented this model to test how the arrangement and optical properties of the water phase influences the reflectance. To validate the model assumptions, we qualitatively compared the calculated reflectance and transmittance with measurements. We concluded that reflectance and transmittance depend not only on the amount of water but also on the spatial distribution of water within the pore space of the porous medium.
Comparison of Equivalent Conductivities for Numerical Simulation of One‐Dimensional Unsaturated Flow
Authors: Belfort Benjamin , Lehmann François
Published: November 2005

Water flow in unsaturated porous media is usually simulated using the Richards equation in combination with some numerical method for spatial and temporal discretization. In this study we implement a mixed hybrid finite element solution with different formulations for the equivalent hydraulic conductivity in an attempt to more accurately simulate variably saturated flow. The advantages of a quadrature rule are demonstrated for simulations of sharp infiltration fronts. Results show the importance of selecting an appropriate equivalent conductivity. Geometric, weighted and integrated formulations produced better solutions than a traditional scheme using a mean conductivity calculated with a mean pressure head. Two illustrative test cases are considered for infiltration in initially dry homogeneous and heterogeneous soils subject to both Dirichlet and variable Neumann boundary conditions. The accuracy and computational efficiency of the proposed algorithm with the different conductivity formulations is demonstrated by means of comparisons with a finite difference approach using various interblock conductivity averages.
Evaluation of Drainage from Passive Suction and Nonsuction Flux Meters in a Volcanic Clay Soil under Tropical Conditions
Authors: van der Velde M. , Green S. R. , Gee G. W. , Vanclooster M. , Clothier B. E.
Published: November 2005

Root zone drainage measurements are needed to improve fertilizer management in areas where agriculture may be impacting groundwater supplies. We present results of field tests where drainage was measured with two types of suction (resolution of 0.16 and 1.6 mm tip−1) and a nonsuction (resolution of 0.22 mm tip−1) water flux meter (WFM). The soil was a microstructured weathered volcanic ash located on a coral atoll subject to intense rainfall and located in the Kingdom of Tonga. Our objectives were to evaluate water flux measurements by comparing them with (i) simple water balance estimates of cumulative fluxes, (ii) cumulative fluxes deduced from soil moisture content changes, and (iii) simulated fluxes using HYDRUS‐1D. Soil hydraulic properties were obtained at five soil depths. During the 60‐d evaluation period rainfall totaled 340 mm. The WFMs were installed in duplicate using disturbed soil. The consistency of the shape of the drainage curves measured with the WFMs, those derived from soil moisture changes, and those obtained with modeling led us to conclude that soil disturbance during WFM installation did not severely influence measurements. This was attributed to the strong microaggregation and disturbance introduced by plowing. Water balance and HYDRUS model estimates of drainage corresponded well with the measurement by nonsuction WFMs. Suction WFMs overestimated drainage, possibly due to flow convergence created by wick and divergence barrier lengths being not properly sized for the observed flow conditions. After the evaluation period some of the WFMs failed to respond. Nevertheless, flux meters are seen as promising tools to provide remote and continuous measurement of root zone drainage.
Analytical Solutions for Vertical Flow in Unsaturated, Rooted Soils with Variable Surface Fluxes
Authors: Yuan Fasong , Lu Zhiming
Published: November 2005

Analytical solutions to Richards' equation have been derived to describe the distribution of pressure head, water content, and fluid flow for rooted, homogeneous soils with varying surface fluxes. The solutions assume that (i) the constitutive relations for the hydraulic conductivity and water content as function of the pressure head are exponential, (ii) the initial water content distribution is a steady‐state distribution, and (iii) the root water uptake is a function of depth. Three simple forms of root water uptake are considered, that is, uniform, stepwise, and exponential functional forms. The lower boundary of the rooted soil profile studied is a water table, while at the upper boundary time‐dependent surface fluxes are specified, either infiltration or evaporation. Application of the Kirchhoff transformation allows us to linearize Richards' equation and derive exact solutions. The steady‐state solution is given in a closed form and the transient solution has the form of an infinite series. The solutions are used to simulate the hydraulic behavior of the rooted soils under different conditions of root uptake and surface flux. The restricted assumptions for the solutions may limit the applicability, but the solutions are relatively flexible and easy to implement compared to other analytical and numerical schemes. The analytical solutions provide a reliable and convenient means for evaluating the accuracy of various numerical schemes, which usually require sophisticated algorithms to overcome convergence and mass balance problems.
Sugar convertibility in the parasitoid Cotesia glomerata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: Hausmann Claudia , Wäckers Felix L. , Dorn Silvia
Published: November 2005

Lack of suitable sugar sources for adult parasitic wasps is an important cause of failure in biological control programs, but the metabolic constraints of sugar feeding are poorly understood. Here we investigated the suitability of 11 naturally occurring sugars as energy sources for the parasitoid Cotesia glomerata (L.) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). By feeding energy‐deprived individuals with given quantities of a 40% (w:w) sugar solution, we assessed recovery time and lifespan after feeding. More than 50% of the wasps recovered within 20 min, and at least 80% within 60 min after uptake of one of the monosaccharides fructose or glucose, the disaccharide sucrose, or the trisaccharide melezitose. Between 40 to 80% of the test insects recovered within an hour after intake of maltose, raffinose, galactose, or mannose. Less than 25% recovered within 1 h after uptake of melibiose, trehalose, rhamnose, or water (control). Parasitoids obtained the highest lifespan benefits after intake of glucose, fructose, sucrose, or melezitose, indicating and confirming their convertibility as an energy source for C. glomerata. In contrast, no lifespan increase was found after consumption of rhamnose and trehalose. The differences in recovery time and lifespan are discussed in terms of parasitoid enzyme activity and metabolic processes. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 60:223–229, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.