cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cognitive themes emerging from air photo interpretation texts published to 1960

Remotely sensed images are important sources of information for a range of spatial problems. Air photo interpretation emerged as a discipline in response to the need to develop a systematic method for analysis of reconnaissance photographs during World War I. Remote sensing research has focused on the development of automated methods of image analysis, shifting focus away from human interpretation processes. However, automated methods are far from perfect and human interpretation remains an important component of image analysis. One important source of information concerning human image interpretation process is textual guides written within the discipline. These early texts put more emphasis than more recent texts, on the details of the interpretation process, the role of the human in the process, and the cognitive skills involved. In the research reported here, we use content analysis to evaluate the discussion of air photo interpretation in historical texts published between 1922 and 1960. Results indicate that texts from this period emphasized the documentation of relationships between perceptual cues and images features of common interest while reasoning skill and knowledge were discussed less so. The results of this analysis provide a framework of expert image skills needed to perform image interpretation tasks. The framework is useful for informing the design of semi-automated tools for performing analysis.
Electrical and Thermal Interface Conductance of Carbon Nanotubes Grown under Direct Current Bias Voltage

The electrical resistance of individual multiwalled carbon nanotubes and the thermal interface resistance of nanotube arrays are investigated as functions of dc bias voltage used during growth. Nanotubes were grown from Fe2O3 nanoparticles supported on Ti/SiO2/Si substrates by microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) under dc bias voltages of −200, −100, 0, +100, and +200 V. Electrical resistances of individual nanotubes were obtained from I−V measurements of randomly selected nanotubes, while thermal interface resistances of nanotube arrays were measured using a photoacoustic technique. The study reveals that individual nanotubes and nanotube arrays grown under positive dc bias voltage (+200 V) show significant increases in their electrical and thermal interface conductance, respectively. The nanotubes have been further characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, and electron microscopy in order to account for the marked differences in electrical and thermal int...
Effects of fasting on growth hormone secretion in the male baboon.

The effects of prolonged fasting on the quantity and pattern of spontaneous GH secretion in 5 adolescent male baboons were investigated. Serum GH concentrations were measured in blood samples taken at 20-min intervals over 12 daytime hours after an overnight fast (control period) and during 84–96 h of fasting. Rhythmic GH secretion, with a mean (± SE) period of 5.4 ± 0.2 h occurred in 4 of the 5 animals in 11 control experiments, and GH peaks occurred randomly in the fifth animal. In response to prolonged fasting, the percent half-amplitude of daytime GH peaks decreased from control values of 144 ± 12% to 105 ± 17%. The period of the GH rhythm in 4 animals decreased during fasting, but the change was not statistically significant, and the episodic pattern of GH release in animal 5 was apparently unaffected by fasting. After 84 h of fasting, the mean and integrated concentrations of GH released over 12 daytime hours in the 5 animals were not significantly different from control values. In summary, despite ...
Lightening in a bottle: usable and secure

A review of the difficulties inherent in implementing usable and secure cyber policies, specifically as the implementation relies on user awareness, acceptance, and compliance. (Current Hard Problems in INFOSEC Research #11)
Effects of ventilation on the collection of exhaled breath in humans.

A computerized system has been developed to monitor tidal volume, respiration rate, mouth pressure, and carbon dioxide during breath collection. This system was used to investigate variability in t...
Histopathology of endocervical infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, herpes simplex virus, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Abstract We determined the histologic correlates of clinically identified mucopurulent cervicitis, culture-proven cervical infection with Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae , herpes simplex virus (HSV), and vaginal infection with Trichomonas vaginalis by examining cervical biopsies from 83 women. Clinical mucopurulent cervicitis and culture-documented infection with one or more of these pathogens correlated histologically with intraepithelial neutrophils, reactive endocervical cells, edema, luminal neutrophils, and with several deeper tissue changes such as extensive and dense subepithelial inflammation, granulation tissue, and necrotic ulceration. Focal loss of surface columnar cells and spongiosis were also correlated with culture-confirmed infection. Well-formed germinal centers were seen in biopsies from 14 of 21 patients (67%) with C trachomatis infection alone, but in none of 17 patients with infections other than C trachomatis ( P P N gonorrhoeae . The organism T vaginalis was not associated with any endocervical pathology. If these results are confirmed by prospective studies, they suggest that pathologists should alert clinicians to the possibility of recent or current infection with C trachomatis or HSV when cervical biopsies show the above changes. The loss of surface columnar epithelium with HSV, chlamydial, and gonococcal infection offers a possible explanation for the reported association of these infections with increased risk of acquiring human immunodeficiency virus infection.
Hydrothermal deposition on the East Pacific Rise at 21⁰ N

Abstract In the spring of 1979, 350°C springs precipitating hydrothermal sulphides and sulphates directly on to the sea-floor were discovered on the crest of the East Pacific Rise (EPR) at 21°N by the astonished scientific party of the RISE submersible expedition. These hot springs are within a linear field of active and inactive hydrothermal vents extending 6 km along the rise axis. Typically the mineral deposits at EPR, 21°N consist of basal sulphide mounds surmounted by mineralized sulphide-sulphate edifices, or “chimneys”, reaching heights up to 13 m above the sea floor. The mounds rest directly on fresh basalt and cover areas up to 450 m2. Chimneys atop mounds may be active or dead. The hottest active chimneys (350°C) spew forth fluids blackened by fine-grained sulphide precipitates, dominantly hexagonal pyrrhotite and iron-rich sphalerite. These “black smokers” are distinguished from cooler “white smoker” chimneys which are encrusted by worm tubes and emit milky fluids bearing amorphous silica, barite, and pyrite.
Transthoracic approach for Pott's disease.

Abstract Spinal tuberculosis with paraplegia, although decreasing in incidence, remains a problem in certain sections of the United States and in most underdeveloped nations. Evacuation of the tuberculous abscess, debridement of necrotic bone, and fusion of the anterior spine are maneuvers performed increasingly by thoracic surgeons. Twenty-two patients with Pott's disease and symptoms of back pain, gibbous deformity, and neurological deficit underwent thoracotomy. Nine were paraplegic prior to operation. Postoperatively, spinal fusion occurred in all cases. All paraplegic patients can walk now, and 17 of the 22 treated operatively have been completely rehabilitated and are in school or working. The average hospital stay was 2.4 months. There was 1 operative death. Medical treatment for Pott's disease consisted of bed rest and chemotherapy and resulted in progressive neurological deficit in 2 patients with an average hospital stay of 2.2 years. We believe operative treatment offers two distinct advantages: excellent reversal of even long-standing paraplegia and markedly shortened hospital stay.
Integrated communications, navigation and surveillance study — Evaluation of alternative architectures

■ Definition of C, N, and S components in baseline and alternative architectures ■ Alternative architecture defined with the goal of improving robustness for ICNS ■ Visual representation produced for each architecture ■ Development of Quality Attribute Matrix to evaluate the architectures ■ Evaluation scored the alternative architecture higher ■ Results from such a process contingent on ensuring participation of wide-range of SMEs in positions of authority
Ethylene vinyl acetate/layered silicate nanocomposites prepared by a surfactant-free method: Enhanced flame retardant and mechanical properties

Abstract Exfoliated EVA/layered silicate nanocomposites were prepared by a masterbatch process using polymer-modified layered silicate instead of small molecule surfactant-modified clays. The nanocomposites exhibited improved mechanical properties and flame retardancy. Microscale flammability test showed that the heat release capacity (HRC) and total heat release (THR) were reduced by 21–24% and 16%, respectively. Radiant gasification studies revealed that the exfoliated EVA nanocomposites exhibited better improvements in flame retardant properties of EVA than did the corresponding intercalated nanocomposites. The peak mass loss rate of the exfoliated EVA nanocomposite containing about 5 wt% clay was reduced by 80% and the mass loss rate plot was spread over a much longer period of time. The mechanical and flammability tests revealed that the observed improvements in all the desirable properties were due to the presence of both the incorporated polymeric surfactant and the nanoclay.
The importance of psychotic features to major depression: course and outcome during a 2-year follow-up.

ABSTRACT— Despite substantially greater levels of impairment during the five years preceding intake to this study, patients with nonbipolar psychotic depression (n= 55) were as likely to recover as were patients with nonpsychotic depression (n= 451) during a 2-year follow-up. Though patients with psychotic depression were more psychosocially impaired at 6 months, these differences resolved during the ensuing 18 months. In replication of an earlier study, early outcome was more predictive of later outcome in psychotic patients than it was in nonpsychotic patients.
Morphogenesis of synaptic junctions in layers I and II of the somatic sensory cortex.

Changes in the ultrastructure of synaptic junctions in layers I and II of developing somatic sensory cortex are described in this study. Dendrites in the molecular layer of newborn kittens are contacted by boutons terminaux and boutons de passage. Presynaptic elements contain very few synaptic vesicles and little or no paramembranous dense material at the contact region. Cleft substance is sparce. A thin plaque of granular material abuts the internal surface of the postsynaptic membrane and produces a slight asymmetry in early axodendritic synapses. During the sixth to tenth postnatal days, symmetrical synaptic junctions develop along pyramidal cell bodies, initial axonal segments and proximal dendrites deep to the molecular layer. Apposing synaptic membranes appear electron dense but lack significant amounts of granular material at their cytoplasmic surfaces. Axodendritic junctions in the molecular layer display prominent postsynaptic densities at this time and are clearly asymmetrical. In addition, asymmetrical axospinous synapses are first observed along apical dendritic shafts. During the third postnatal week, the dendritic spine apparatus develops. Synaptic junctions along proximal cell surfaces in layer II remain symmetrical and synaptic vesicles in many of the deeper-situated axon terminals are flattened, suggesting a late emergence of the ellipsoidal vesicles seen in adult symmetrical synapses.
Diatom phylogenetics inferred based on direct optimization of nuclear-encoded SSU rRNA sequences

Direct optimization (DO) of 126 nuclear-encoded SSU rRNA diatom sequences was conducted. The optimal phylogeny indicated several unique relationships with respect to those recovered from a maximum likelihood (ML) analysis of an alignment based on maximizing primary and secondary structural similarity between 126 nuclear-encoded SSU rRNA diatom sequences (Medlin and Kaczmarska, 2004). Dividing diatoms into the subdivisions Coscinodiscophytina and Bacillariophytina was not supported by the DO phylogeny, due to the paraphyly of the former. The same pertains to Coscinodiscophyceae, Mediophyceae, Thalassiosira, Fragilaria and Amphora. The ordinal-level classification of the diatoms proposed by Round et al. (1990) was for the most part found to be unsupported. The DO phylogeny represented a more rigorous hypothesis than the ML tree because DO maximized character congruence during the homology testing (i.e., alignment/tree search) process whereas the non-phylogenetic similarity-based alignment used in the ML analysis did not. The above statement is supported by “controlled” parsimony analyses of 35 sequences, which strongly suggested that dissimilarities in the DO and ML tree structure were due to the specific homology testing approach used. It could not be precluded that differences in taxon sampling and the use of a dissimilar optimality criteria contributed to discrepancies in the structure of the optimal ML and DO trees.
Effect of intake level and alfalfa substitution for grass hay on ruminal kinetics of fiber digestion and particle passage in beef cattle

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate digestion kinetics of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) substitution for grass hay in beef cattle. In Exp. 1, forage combinations evaluated in situ consisted of 0% alfalfa-100% big bluestem (Andropogon gerardi Vitman), 25% alfalfa-75% big bluestem, 50% alfalfa-50% big bluestem, and 100% alfalfa-0% big bluestem. Nonlinear regression was used to determine the immediately soluble fraction A, the potentially degradable fraction B, the undegraded fraction C, and the disappearance rate of DM and NDF. Dry matter fraction A increased linearly (P = 0.03), and DM and NDF fraction B decreased linearly (P = 0.01) with increasing alfalfa substitution. Rate of DM and NDF disappearance increased linearly (P ≤ 0.02) with increasing alfalfa substitution. In Exp. 2, treatments were arranged as a 2 x 2 factorial testing alfalfa substitution [none or 25% (as-fed basis)] to orchardgrass hay (Dactylis glomerata L.) and intake level [restricted to 1% of BW daily (DM basis) or ad libitum]. Nutrient intakes were lowest (P ≤ 0.05) by steers fed restricted diets, intermediate by steers fed orchardgrass ad libitum, and greatest by steers fed orchardgrass plus alfalfa ad libitum. Intake level and forage source had no effect (P ≥ 0.23) on total tract apparent digestibility of all nutrients except CP. Steers fed orchardgrass plus alfalfa had 33% greater (P = 0.01) total tract apparent digestibility for CP than those fed orchardgrass alone. Lag time of DM and NDF disappearance was not affected (P ≥ 0.20) by alfalfa supplementation or intake level. Rate of DM and NDF disappearance of orchardgrass was faster (P ≤ 0.01) in steers fed orchardgrass plus alfalfa, at both restricted and ad libitum levels of feeding, than in animals fed orchardgrass alone. Mean retention times of large and small particles of orchardgrass tended to be shorter (P ≤ 0.06) when steers consumed ad libitum vs. restricted diets. Small orchardgrass particles tended to have a faster (P = 0.09) rate of passage under ad libitum feeding conditions and with alfalfa addition. Ad libitum intake was associated with a shorter mean retention time of orchardgrass and faster rate of passage of small orchardgrass particles, whereas alfalfa addition increased the rate of passage of small orchardgrass particles and the rate of DM and NDF disappearance.
Heat extraction from hot, dry, crustal rock

Natural heat stored in the earth’s interior represents an essentially inexhaustible energy supply which, at usefully high temperatures, is accessible at practical drilling depths from almost anywhere on the earth’s land surface. The problems of extracting and using this heat are those of engineering and economics, and can be expected to vary with the local geology and value of thermal energy. The first major experimental system designed to investigate these problems in one common type of geologic environment has recently been completed in the crystalline rock underlying the Jemez Plateau of northern New Mexico. It consists principally of two boreholes connected at a depth of about 2.7 km by a system of hydraulic fractures produced in granitic rock at a temperature of approximately 185°C. Cool water injected through one hole is heated as it flows through the fractures, and is recovered through the second hole as pressurized, superheated water. In a surface heat-exchange system now being completed, this heat will be extracted and the cool water reinjected to maintain a continuous, closed, pressurized-water energy-extraction loop.
Totally real imbeddings and the universal covering spaces of domains of holomorphy: Some examples

We begin with a review of the known examples of compact totally realn-dimensional submanifolds of ℂn. We then construct some new families of examples, including some which are simply connected. We conclude by using these examples to construct bounded domains of holomorphy in ℂn whose universal covering spaces are not biholomorphically equivalent to domains in ℂn.
Jet Interaction and the Evolution of Compact Symmetric Radio Sources

Readhead et al. have recently proposed that compact symmetric objects (CSOs) evolve into larger double sources many kiloparsecs in extent. They propose a detailed empirical model based on recent VLBI survey data that suggest a non-self-similar evolution with a constant hot-spot advance speed independent of the ambient density. The implications of this observational result are explored via numerical modeling. It is found that pure luminosity evolution with constant lobe advance speed is unlikely on the small scales of the CSOs if any ambient gas density gradients exist. However, the transition from CSO to larger double radio sources may involve a nearly constant advance speed into a medium of decreasing density as suggested by Readhead et al. This result can be reproduced by inclusion of additional physics in non-self-similar flows, namely the losses experienced by the outflowing jet as it interacts with its surroundings. The data of Readhead et al. provide observational evidence that this interaction is an important feature of radio source evolution.
"η6"-Type anion-π in biomolecular recognition.

Theoretical and compelling experimental evidence indicates that the interaction between an anion and an aromatic π system when the anion is directly above the ring face (“η6”-type anion–π), can be attractive. This may play an important role in the formation and recognition of biomolecular structures. We examined high-resolution structures of proteins and nucleic acids for the presence of “η6”-type anion–π. Though less frequent than its counterpart cation–π, “η6”-type anion–π is observed unambiguously, occurring in protein/nucleic acid loops and often involving conserved/coevolving sites in proteins, suggesting it plays an important role in macromolecular folding and function.
Pachytene Chromosome Morphology of Diploid Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.

Diploid clones of C. dactylon were studied to determine their pachytene chromosome morphology. The chromosomes ranged in length from 20.5μm to 44.6μm. Arm ratios ranged from under 1.50 to 2.14. The chromosomes were identified by their arm length ratios, relative length and position and number of prominent chromomeres. The shortest chromosome was designated chromosome 1 and other chromosomes numbered on basis of average chromosome length. There was little variability in chromosome morphology among clones.
MTF Maximization at Low Spatial Frequencies

A merit function suggested by Lenskii has been generalized to make it applicable to optical systems with noncircular and/or partially obscured apertures. An independent derivation makes clear the relation between Lenskii's merit function and one due to Hopkins. A slight modification of the merit function relates it more accurately to the MTF.
Non-radiative deactivation of the europium 5D0 excited state by water molecules outside the primary coordination sphere of Eu3+ in Na3 [Eu (C4H4O5) 3] ·2NaClO4·6H2O

Abstract Room-temperature lifetimes of the 5 D 0 emission of Eu 3+ in Na 3 [Eu(oxydiacetate) 3 ]·2NaClO 4 ·6H 2 O (EuODA·H 2 O) and Na 3 [Eu(oxydiacetate) 3 ]·2NaClO 4 ·6D 2 O (EuODA·D 2 O) are reported. Radiative and non-radiative contributions to the total excited-state relaxation rate are determined for both compounds. It is shown that water molecules outside of the first coordination sphere of Eu 3+ make the most significant contribution to the deactivation of 5 D 0 luminescence in EuODA·H 2 O. The order-of-magnitude of the deactivation rate is consistent with the predictions of the Foster theory, assuming transfer of electronic energy of the Eu 3+ ion to vibrational motions localized on the water molecules. Lattice water does not seem to play an important role in the deactivation of the 5 D 1 excited state.
Total blood mercury levels and depression among adults in the United States: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2008.

Background Mercury is a neurotoxicant linked with psychiatric symptoms at high levels of exposure. However, it is unclear whether an association is present at the low exposure levels in the US adult population. Materials and Methods Cross-sectional associations of total blood mercury and depression were assessed in 6,911 adults age ≥20 in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2005–2008. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 was used to assess depression (high likelihood of a depressive spectrum disorder diagnosis; score 5–27). Results Unadjusted survey weighted logistic regression suggested that higher total blood mercury was associated with lower odds of depression (Odds Ratio = 0.49, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.36–0.65, comparing the highest and lowest mercury quintiles). This association largely disappeared after adjustment for sociodemographic variables (income-poverty ratio, education, marital status). However, in age-stratified analyses, this inverse relationship remained in older adults (age ≥40) even after adjustment for sociodemographic variables. Simulation analyses adjusting for expected confounding effects of fish intake suggested that the inverse relationship among older adults may be plausibly attributed to residual confounding (Odds Ratio = 0.75, 95% Confidence Interval: 0.50–1.12, comparing the highest and lowest mercury quintiles). Conclusions Higher total blood mercury was not associated with increased odds of depression. The lower odds of depression in older adults with higher total blood mercury may be due to residual confounding.
An assessment of books relevant to forecasting in marketing

Abstract A systematic evaluation was done of thirteen books that have relevance for forecasting in marketing. Each book was assessed on several dimensions including: readability, comprehensiveness, organization, mathematical complexity, appropriateness as a textbook, and appropriateness as a reference. Additionally, a comparison was made with respect to depth of coverage for different forecasting methods and for major forecasting concepts.
Immunotargeting of tumor vasculature: preclinical development of novel antibody-based imaging and therapy against TEM1/CD248

Meeting abstracts The success of antibody-based theranostics depends on the identification of tumor specific biomarkers and the development of corresponding antibodies with high-affinity and specificity. Tumor endothelial marker-1 (TEM1) is highly expressed in tumor vasculature of multiple cancers
Centrosome number is controlled by a centrosome-intrinsic block to reduplication

The centrosome duplicates once in S phase. To determine whether there is a block in centrosome reduplication, we used a cell fusion assay to compare the duplication potential of unduplicated G1 centrosomes and recently duplicated G2 centrosomes. By fusing cells in different cell cycle stages, we found that G2 centrosomes were unable to reduplicate in a cellular environment that supports centrosome duplication. Furthermore, G2 cytoplasm did not inhibit centrosome duplication in fused cells, indicating that the block to reduplication is intrinsic to the centrosomes rather than the cytoplasm. To test the underlying mechanism, we created mononucleate G1 cells with two centrosomes by fusing cells with enucleated cytoplasts. Both centrosomes duplicated, indicating that the block is not controlled by centrosome:nucleus ratio. We also found that human primary cells have tight control over centrosome number during prolonged S-phase arrest and that this control is partially abrogated in transformed cells. This suggests a link between the control of centrosome duplication and maintenance of genomic stability.
The interaction of multiply charged intercalating heterocycles with DNA.

The interaction with DNA of two aromatic nitrogen heterocycles, 1 and 2, which at pH 6 have two positive charges on their ring systems and two cationic side chains, have been determined. A third similar compound, 3, with a single side chain and reduced ring charge, was analyzed as a control. Viscometric titrations with sonicated DNA indicated that all three compounds bind to DNA by intercalation. Spectrophotometric binding studies as a function of ionic strength indicated that both 1 and 2 bind to DNA as tetracations at pH 6. These are the first examples of intercalators with two charges directly on the intercalating ring system. Dissociation kinetics experiments as a function of ionic strength confirmed that 1 and 2 bind to DNA as tetracations. Compound 1 has a G · C base-pair binding preference, 2 seems to prefer binding to alternating pyrimidine–purine sequences regardless of the composition, and 3 has no significant binding specificity.
Almost-sure asymptotic stability of rotor blades flapping motion in forward flight in turbulent flow

This paper examines the almost-sure asymptotic stability of uncoupled flapping motion of rotor blades in forward flight under the effect of atmospheric turbulence. Under these conditions, the equation of motion of the rotor blade system contains both harmonic and stochastic excitations. The intensities of these excitations are assumed small in order to approximate the physical process by a diffusive Markov process defined by a set of Ito equations. Explicit almost-sure stability conditions are derived for the equivalent Ito equations and are compared with the mean square stability conditions obtained using Ito differential rule.
Logistics of moving from computer fluency to computational thinking (abstract only)

As the theme of the conference indicates, computing is changing and so is its pedagogy. In the meantime, many computer science departments teach computer fluency service courses required by their universities, colleges, or other departments, in which the content of the course becomes highly challenged by institutional constraints (e.g. class size, university computer literacy requirement, etc.). This birds-of-a-feather is designed to gather educators who have been teaching fluency courses or may be teaching such courses in the future, so that they can share their experiences, learn from one another, and discuss the most effective ways of affecting change and delivering the content they deem most appropriate.
Cellobiohydrolase hydrolyzes crystalline cellulose on hydrophobic faces

Biodegradation of plant biomass is a slow process in nature, and hydrolysis of cellulose is also widely considered to be a rate-limiting step in the proposed industrial process of converting lignocellulosic materials to biofuels. It is generally known that a team of enzymes including endo- and exocellulases as well as cellobiases are required to act synergistically to hydrolyze cellulose to glucose. The detailed molecular mechanisms of these enzymes have yet to be convincingly elucidated. In this report, atomic force microscopy (AFM) is used to image in real-time the structural changes in Valonia cellulose crystals acted upon by the exocellulase cellobiohydrolase I (CBH I) from Trichoderma reesei. Under AFM, single enzyme molecules could be observed binding only to one face of the cellulose crystal, apparently the hydrophobic face. The surface roughness of cellulose began increasing after adding CBH I, and the overall size of cellulose crystals decreased during an 11-h period. Interestingly, this size reduction apparently occurred only in the width of the crystal, whereas the height remained relatively constant. In addition, the measured cross-section shape of cellulose crystal changed from asymmetric to nearly symmetric. These observed changes brought about by CBH I action may constitute the first direct visualization supporting the idea that the exocellulase selectively hydrolyzes the hydrophobic faces of cellulose. The limited accessibility of the hydrophobic faces in native cellulose may contribute significantly to the rate-limiting slowness of cellulose hydrolysis.
Acid phosphatase and leucine aminopeptidase isozymes as biochemical markers of homogeneity in oil seed rape androgenetic lines

Extracts of cotyledons of Brassica napus plants (seed progenies of doubled haploid plants) were separated by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels and stained for acid phosphatase (ACP-E.C. 3.1.3.2.) and leucine aminopeptidase (LAP-E.C. 3.4.11.1.) enzymes to investigate the possibility of utilising isozymes as markers of homogeneity (purity) of plant populations. One zone of activity for acid phosphatase and two zones of activity for leucine aminopeptidase were identified on gels, some variation in isozyme patterns occurred in several androgenetic lines. This method is appropriate and consistent for testing the homogeneity of breeding lines-progenies of double haploid (D.H.) plants.
Studies of amino acid metabolism in Escherichia coli with 15N.

Metabolic relationships between exogenous and endogenous amino acids in Escherichia coli were studied by means of the isotopic competition method with 15NH4Cl and 14N-glutamic acid, -aspartic acid, and -alanine respectively. The information gained by these studies aids in confirming the general metabolic schemes postulated or known relative to amino acid synthesis and serves to indicate which pathways are preferred by Escherichia coli strain B under specified growth conditions. Each of the amino acids fed supplies nitrogen in substantial quantity to all the others and not just to its own family as is the case with the carbon.
A bioreactor system for the nitrogen loop in a Controlled Ecological Life Support System.

As space missions become longer in duration, the need to recycle waste into useful compounds rises dramatically. This problem can be addressed by the development of Controlled Ecological Life Support Systems (CELSS) (i.e., Engineered Closed/Controlled Eco-Systems (ECCES)), consisting of human and plant modules. One of the waste streams leaving the human module is urine. In addition to the reclamation of water from urine, recovery of the nitrogen is important because it is an essential nutrient for the plant module. A 3-step biological process for the recycling of nitrogenous waste (urea) is proposed. A packed-bed bioreactor system for this purpose was modeled, and the issues of reaction step segregation, reactor type and volume, support particle size, and pressure drop were addressed. Based on minimization of volume, a bioreactor system consisting of a plug flow immobilized urease reactor, a completely mixed flow immobilized cell reactor to convert ammonia to nitrite, and a plug flow immobilized cell reactor to produce nitrate from nitrite is recommended. It is apparent that this 3-step bioprocess meets the requirements for space applications.
Erythropoietin-induced recruitment of Shc via a receptor phosphotyrosine-independent, Jak2-associated pathway

Based on the recently implicated role of Shc as a signaling effector for type I cytokine receptors, factors which mediate the recruitment and phosphorylation of Shc in the erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) system have been studied. FDC-P1 cells stably expressing the wild type murine EPOR supported the EPO-induced association of Shc with Jak2 and its rapid tyrosine phosphorylation. However, this did not depend upon the presence of phosphotyrosine sites within the EPOR and was mediated by a mitogenically deficient receptor form (EPOR329) lacking cytoplasmic tyrosine residues. This was shown both by Western blotting of Shc and Jak2 co-immunoprecipitates and through the development of an in vitro assay for cytokine-induced Shc phosphorylation. The direct association of Shc with Jak2 also was observed and was shown to depend upon EPO-exposure and the SH2 subdomain of Shc. Together, these studies indicate that Jak2, in part, may mediate the EPO-induced phosphorylation of Shc.
The sub-micron resolution X-ray spectroscopy beamline at NSLS-II

Abstract For many research areas such as life, environmental, earth or material sciences, novel analytical resources have to be developed for an advance understanding of complex natural and engineered systems that are heterogeneous on the micron to the tenths of microns scale. NSLS-II at BNL will be a synchrotron radiation source with an ultra-high brilliance delivering a high current (500 mA). One of the 1st six NSLS-II beamlines will be the Sub-micron Resolution X-ray spectroscopy beamline (SRX), dedicated as an analytical tool to study complex systems on a sub-micron length scale. SRX will comprise two branches thanks to a canted setup with two undulators: the first branch using Kirkpatrick–Baez mirrors as focusing optics will cover the energy range of 4.65–23 keV, allowing for XANES experiments from the Ti to the Rh K-edge. Thanks to a horizontally deflecting double crystal monochromator with maximum stability, a set of slits located on the secondary source, and two sets of complementary and quickly interchangeable KB mirrors, spectroscopy with very high spectral and spatial resolution will be achieved. The spot size will almost fully cover a range from 60×60 to 1300×500 nm2, providing an attractive adaptability of the observation scale. A 1.5 m long IVU21 will serve as a light source. The expected high flux in a sub-micron-spot (5×1012 and 7×1013 ph s−1 at maximum and lowest resolutions) will open new possibilities for spectromicroscopy of trace elements. The 2nd canted undulator will serve as an independent light source for the second branch designed for experiments with X-ray energies in the range of 2–15 keV. Using Fresnel zone plates, the spatial resolution aimed for is around 30 nm with up to 7×109 ph s−1 in the spot. This branch would be attractive for many biological applications from life and environmental science due to low-Z elements of interest within that energy range. In both experimental stations, X-ray fluorescence will be used for imaging, spectroscopy, tomography and μ-diffraction experiments.
Disruption of CD40–CD40 Ligand Interactions Results in an Enhanced Susceptibility to Leishmania amazonensis Infection

Abstract To study the role of CD40 ligand (CD40L) in the host immune responses against intracellular pathogens, we infected CD40L knockout (CD40L −/− ) mice with Leishmania amazonensis. Although wild-type mice were susceptible to infection and developed progressive ulcerative lesions, tissue parasite burdens in CD40L −/− mice were significantly higher. This heightened susceptibility to infection was associated with an impaired T cell and macrophage activation and altered inflammatory response, as reflected by low levels of IFNγ, lymphotoxin–tumor necrosis factor (LT–TNF), and nitric oxide (NO) production. Furthermore, CD40L −/− mice failed to generate a protective immune response after immunization. These results indicate an essential role of cognate CD40–CD40L interactions in the generation of cellular immune responses against an intracellular parasite.
IMMERSED BOUNDARY METHOD FOR VARIABLE VISCOSITY AND VARIABLE DENSITY PROBLEMS USING FAST CONSTANT-COEFFICIENT LINEAR SOLVERS II: THEORY ∗

We analyze the stability and convergence of first-order accurate and second-order accurate timestepping schemes for the Navier--Stokes equations with variable viscosity. These schemes are characterized by a mixed implicit/explicit treatment of the viscous term, in which a numerical parameter, $\lambda$, determines the degree of splitting between the implicit and explicit contributions. The reason for this splitting is that it avoids the need to solve computationally expensive linear systems that may change at each timestep. Provided the parameter $\lambda$ is within a permissible range, we prove that the first-order accurate and second-order accurate schemes are convergent. We show further that the efficiency of the second-order accurate scheme depends on how $\lambda$ is chosen within the permissible range, and we discuss choices that work well in practice. We use parameters motivated by this analysis to simulate internal gravity waves, which arise in stratified fluids with variable density. We examine h...
The Ambulance Industry Struggles To Go The Distance

When a major private ambulance company filed for bankruptcy, it raised the alarm for emergency services organizations nationwide.
T Cell Receptor Signaling Co-regulates Multiple Golgi Genes to Enhance N-Glycan Branching

T cell receptor (TCR) signaling enhances beta1,6GlcNAc-branching in N-glycans, a phenotype that promotes growth arrest and inhibits autoimmunity by increasing surface retention of cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) via interactions with galectins. N-Acetylglucosaminyltransferase V (MGAT5) mediates beta1,6GlcNAc-branching by transferring N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) from UDP-GlcNAc to N-glycan substrates produced by the sequential action of Golgi alpha1,2-mannosidase I (MIa,b,c), MGAT1, alpha1,2-mannosidase II (MII, IIx), and MGAT2. Here we report that TCR signaling enhances mRNA levels of MIa,b,c and MII,IIx in parallel with MGAT5, whereas limiting levels of MGAT1 and MGAT2. Blocking the increase in MI or MII enzyme activity induced by TCR signaling with deoxymannojirimycin or swainsonine, respectively, limits beta1,6GlcNAc-branching, suggesting that enhanced MI and MII activity are both required for this phenotype. MGAT1 and MGAT2 have an approximately 250- and approximately 20-fold higher affinity for UDP-GlcNAc than MGAT5, respectively, and increasing MGAT1 expression paradoxically inhibits beta1,6GlcNAc branching by limiting UDP-GlcNAc supply to MGAT5, suggesting that restricted changes in MGAT1 and MGAT2 mRNA levels in TCR-stimulated cells serves to enhance availability of UDP-GlcNAc to MGAT5. Together, these data suggest that TCR signaling differentially regulates multiple N-glycan-processing enzymes at the mRNA level to cooperatively promote beta1,6GlcNAc branching, and by extension, CTLA-4 surface expression, T cell growth arrest, and self-tolerance.
Channel assignment and link scheduling in multi-radio multi-channel wireless mesh networks

Capacity limitation is one of the fundamental issues in wireless mesh networks. This paper addresses capacity improvement issues in multiradio multi-channel wireless mesh networks. Our objective is to find both dynamic and static channel assignments and corresponding link schedules that maximize the network capacity. We focus on determining the highest gain we can achieve from increasing the number of radios and channels under certain traffic demands. We consider two different types of traffic demands. One is expressed in the form of data size vector, and the other is in the form of data rate vector. For the first type of traffic demand, our objective is to minimize the number of time slots to transport all the data. For the second type of traffic demand, our objective is to satisfy the bandwidth requirement as much as possible. We perform a trade-off analysis between network performance and hardware cost based on the number of radios and channels in different topologies. This work provides valuable insights for wireless mesh network designers during network planning and deployment.
Sexually Dimorphic SCAMP1 Expression in the Forebrain Motor Pathway for Song Production of Juvenile Zebra Finches

Mechanisms regulating sexual differentiation of the zebra finch song system are not well understood. The present study was designed to more fully characterize secretory carrier membrane protein 1 (SCAMP1), which was identified in a cDNA microarray screen as showing increased expression in the forebrains of developing male compared with female zebra finches. We completed the sequence of the open reading frame and used in situ hybridization to compare mRNA in song control regions of juvenile (25-day-old) individuals. Expression was significantly greater in the HVC (used as a proper name) and robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA) in males than in females. Immunohistochemistry revealed that SCAMP1 protein is also expressed in these two brain regions, and qualitatively appears greater in males. Western analysis confirmed that the protein is increased in the telencephalon of males when compared with females at 25 days of age. These results are consistent with the idea that SCAMP1 is involved in masculinization of these brain areas, perhaps facilitating the survival of cells within them.
AtCHIP functions as an E3 ubiquitin ligase of protein phosphatase 2A subunits and alters plant response to abscisic acid treatment

*Summary CHIP proteins are E3 ubiquitin ligases that promote degradation of Hsp70 and Hsp90 substrate proteins through the 26S proteasome in animal systems. A CHIP-like protein in Arabidopsis, AtCHIP, also has E3 ubiquitin ligase activity and has important roles to play under conditions of abiotic stress. In an effort to study the mode of action of AtCHIP in plant cells, proteins that physically interact with it were identified. Like its animal orthologs, AtCHIP interacts with a unique class of ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes (UBC or E2) that belongs to the stress-inducible UBC4/5 class in yeast. AtCHIP also interacts with other proteins, including an A subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A). This PP2A subunit appears to be a substrate of AtCHIP, because it can be ubiquitylated by AtCHIP in vitro and because the activity of PP2A is increased in AtCHIP-overexpressing plants in the dark or under low-temperature conditions. Unlike the rcn1 mutant, that has reduced PP2A activity due to a mutation in one of the A subunit genes of PP2A, AtCHIP-overexpressing plants are more sensitive to ABA treatment. Since PP2A was previously shown to be involved in low-temperature responses in plants, the low-temperature-sensitive phenotype observed in AtCHIP-overexpressing plants might be partly due to the change in PP2A activity. These data suggest that the E3 ubiquitin ligase AtCHIP may function upstream of PP2A in stress-responsive signal transduction pathways under conditions of low temperature or in the dark.
Weavers of Dreams, Unite!: Actors’ Unionism in Early Twentieth‐Century America Sean P. Holmes. Champaign: University of Illinois Press, 2013.

Weavers of Dreams, Unite!: Actors' Unionism in Early Twentieth-Century America Sean P. Holmes. Champaign: University of Illinois Press, 2013.In the shifting landscape and erosion of American labor unions, the actors' union known as the Actors' Equity Association (AEA) remains strong one hundred years after its formation. For a stage actor to earn membership into AEA is a respected distinction, identifying an actor as a professional. Yet, as Sean P. Holmes explains in his introduction to Weavers of Dreams, Unite!: Actors' Unionism in Early TwentiethCentury America, there is a surprising recurrent gap in the histories of American theatre and American unionism that overlooks the initial rise and efficacy of this significant labor union. Holmes's book supplements this absence by exploring the emergence, success, and struggles of AEA prior to 1913 and in following years as it attempted to bridge the dichotomous division of actor as artist and laborer. By tracing the contentious relationship between theatre managers and actors in the early 1900s, examining the performative elements of the actors' strike in 1919, and investigating the failure of the AEA to claim a stake in Hollywood, Holmes plots an engaging historical analysis that offers thorough detail and compelling examples. The book intelligently balances explaining how the AEA operated in its infancy and comparing why the union was unlike any other, particularly as it was composed of "stage performers who continued to identify more closely with white-collar classes than the blue-collar proletariat" (43).Through six chapters, which includes an epilogue and some photographs, Holmes provides a comprehensive study clarifying why actors' unionizing was necessary but difficult as the profession is grounded in competition, individual success, and claims of artistic integrity that actors did not want to compromise. In the first two chapters the book navigates through the increasing commercialization of theatre and actors' strife under the managements of the Theatrical Syndicate and the Shubert brothers. These powerful management groups dominated New York theatre in the early 1900s and created ire amongst actors as they seemingly eliminated "a notion of cultural hierarchy that sacral - ized the legitimate theater as high art" (28). The AEA fought against unfair management practices, creating overdue protections for actors such as demanding pay for rehearsal time and aiding actors stranded on touring shows that abruptly closed. Holmes's examples of the plights of actors in these early years are numerous, well-researched, and entertaining. …
The Transcriptome of the Intraerythrocytic Developmental Cycle of Plasmodium falciparum

Plasmodium falciparum is the causative agent of the most burdensome form of human malaria, affecting 200–300 million individuals per year worldwide. The recently sequenced genome of P. falciparum revealed over 5,400 genes, of which 60% encode proteins of unknown function. Insights into the biochemical function and regulation of these genes will provide the foundation for future drug and vaccine development efforts toward eradication of this disease. By analyzing the complete asexual intraerythrocytic developmental cycle (IDC) transcriptome of the HB3 strain of P. falciparum, we demonstrate that at least 60% of the genome is transcriptionally active during this stage. Our data demonstrate that this parasite has evolved an extremely specialized mode of transcriptional regulation that produces a continuous cascade of gene expression, beginning with genes corresponding to general cellular processes, such as protein synthesis, and ending with Plasmodium-specific functionalities, such as genes involved in erythrocyte invasion. The data reveal that genes contiguous along the chromosomes are rarely coregulated, while transcription from the plastid genome is highly coregulated and likely polycistronic. Comparative genomic hybridization between HB3 and the reference genome strain (3D7) was used to distinguish between genes not expressed during the IDC and genes not detected because of possible sequence variations. Genomic differences between these strains were found almost exclusively in the highly antigenic subtelomeric regions of chromosomes. The simple cascade of gene regulation that directs the asexual development of P. falciparum is unprecedented in eukaryotic biology. The transcriptome of the IDC resembles a “just-in-time” manufacturing process whereby induction of any given gene occurs once per cycle and only at a time when it is required. These data provide to our knowledge the first comprehensive view of the timing of transcription throughout the intraerythrocytic development of P. falciparum and provide a resource for the identification of new chemotherapeutic and vaccine candidates.