cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic alterations in cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (Por) in sperm of rats exposed to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

As marijuana legalization is increasing, research regarding possible long-term risks for users and their offspring is needed. Little data exists on effects of paternal tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure prior to reproduction. This study determined if chronic THC exposure alters sperm DNA methylation (DNAm) and if such effects are intergenerationally transmitted. Adult male rats underwent oral gavage with THC or vehicle control. Differentially methylated (DM) loci in motile sperm were identified using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS). Another cohort was injected with vehicle or THC, and sperm DNAm was analyzed. Finally, THC-exposed and control adult male rats were mated with THC-naive females. DNAm levels of target genes in brain tissues of the offspring were determined by pyrosequencing. RRBS identified 2,940 DM CpGs mapping to 627 genes. Significant hypermethylation was confirmed (p < 0.05) following oral THC administration for cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (Por), involved in toxin processing and disorders of sexual development. Por hypermethylation was not observed after THC injection or in the subsequent generation. These results support that THC alters DNAm in sperm and that route of exposure can have differential effects. Although we did not observe evidence of intergenerational transmission of the DNAm change, larger studies are required to definitively exclude this possibility.
Substance use disorders and chronic itch.

Chronic pruritus is one dermatologic manifestation of an underlying substance use disorder. Recent literature has uncovered similarities between the general neurologic mechanisms of addiction and chronic itch, largely involving activation of the dopaminergic reward circuits within the brain and imbalances between mu and kappa opioid receptor activation. It is likely that the use of specific drugs, like central nervous system stimulants and opioids, results in further activation and imbalances within these pathways, perpetuating both addiction and pruritus simultaneously. Opioid users often present to dermatology clinics with a generalized pruritus, whereas individuals using central nervous system stimulants like cocaine and methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), as well as legally prescribed drugs like treatments for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, frequently complain of crawling, delusional infestation–like sensations underneath the skin. Because of these overlapping mechanisms and similar clinical presentations to many other chronically itchy conditions, it is necessary for dermatologists to consider and investigate an underlying substance use disorder to effectively treat these patients.
The Role of Offset in the Collection of Federal Taxes

The legal principle of offset has played a key role in debt collection by private parties for centuries. In 2021, offset plays an equally essential role in the United States government’s collection of debts owed to it, accounting for billions of dollars in funds taken from outgoing payments. The right of offset arises when two parties owe each other debts. The party asserting offset can subtract what is owed to them from what they owe, allowing the parties to avoid an unnecessary transaction. Offset thus makes intuitive sense, simplifying two payment flows into one. But offset becomes far more complex when one of the parties is the federal government, which is unlike a traditional private creditor in important ways. Offset has perhaps its largest impact in the tax system, where Congress has legislated that the Internal Revenue Service (the “Service”) has the authority (and sometimes, the mandate) to offset tax refunds. Refunds are commonly offset when a taxpayer owes prior year tax liabilities, other agency debts (e.g., student loans), state taxes, or past due child support. Despite its frequent use by the Service, offset is subject to minimal procedural protections, likely due to its origin in longstanding common law doctrine. Unlike other forms of tax collection, offset does not carry a right to prepayment judicial review in Tax Court. Nor does offset require the Service to issue a notice to the taxpayer prior to taking collection action. Courts also treat offset inconsistently when the applicable taxpayer/debtor is protected by a collection stay under Title 26 or Title 11, allowing offset in some scenarios and denying it in others. Finally, Congress and the Service have often failed to use their authority to make offset more equitable, particularly as applied to low-income taxpayers. The Service has a limited administrative remedy available for taxpayers to affirmatively request bypass from the offset of their refund to a tax debt. But the remedy is little-publicized, little-used, and difficult to administer. During the COVID-19 pandemic and recession, Congress legislatively protected advance stimulus payments from some forms of offset. But Congress failed to make that protection expansive or to extend it to conventional tax refunds, both of which would have put needed funds in the hands of millions of taxpayers during an economic crisis. Similarly, the Service declined to exercise its statutory discretion to systemically suspend offset of conventional tax refunds to past tax liabilities. These issues extend to payments of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which are subject to offset. Both Congress and the Service have failed to acknowledge the EITC’s unique nature as a type of public benefit, treating it instead as a conventional tax refund subject to offset. This disproportionately hurts the low-income taxpayers, and their children, that the EITC was enacted to benefit. We argue that policymakers should pay closer attention to offset and make the necessary changes to apply it in a more equitable and logical manner.
Disclosure of Male Attraction to Primary Care Clinicians by Adolescent Sexual Minority Males

Adolescent sexual minority males (ASMM) experience higher rates of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) relative to their heterosexual peers. Primary care clinicians (PCCs) are well positioned to discuss sexual health and STI prevention with adolescent males; however, ASMM report they are rarely asked about their sexual health, especially with respect to attraction and identity. This study sought to determine variables associated with disclosure of male attraction (“being out”) to a PCC. ASMM (N = 206; 14 to 17 years in the USA) completed an online sexual health survey in 2017. We assessed socio-demographics, sexuality, being out to a guardian, and being out to a PCC, and calculated proportions and associations among the variables using univariable (Fisher exact) and multivariable (Firth logistic regression) analyses. Only 20% (n = 41) of ASMM were out to their PCC even though 53% (n = 109) were out to a parent or guardian. ASMM who were out to a parent or guardian were seven times more likely to be out to their PCC (adjusted odds ratio = 6.69, 95% confidential interval 2.69 to 16.60). No other variables were associated with being out to a PCC. Among ASMM, the only predictor of outness to a PCC in this study was outness to a parent or guardian, yet only half were out to a parent or guardian. PCCs should proactively and routinely inquire about sexual health and screen adolescent males for same sex attraction and sexual minority identity in order to provide optimal health care.
System f2lp --- Computing Answer Sets of First-Order Formulas

We present an implementation of the general language of stable models proposed by Ferraris, Lee and Lifschitz. Under certain conditions, system f2lp turns a first-order theory under the stable model semantics into an answer set program, so that existing answer set solvers can be used for computing the general language. Quantifiers are first eliminated and then the resulting quantifier-free formulas are turned into rules. Based on the relationship between stable models and circumscription, f2lp can also serve as a reasoning engine for general circumscriptive theories. We illustrate how to use f2lp to compute the circumscriptive event calculus.
Soft lens extended wear affects epithelial barrier function.

Abstract Objective To explore the impact of eye closure and soft contact lens extended wear (SCLEW) on epithelial permeability to fluorescein (P dc ). Design A prospective cohort study. Participants Thirty-one noncontact lens (CL) wearers participated. Intervention The effects of eye closure on P dc were evaluated by comparing morning (am) and afternoon (pm) measurements on non-CL subjects. The effects of SCLEW on P dc were determined by measuring P dc before beginning SCLEW and then after 2, 4, and 12 weeks of SCLEW. Main outcome measures P dc measured in the morning versus the afternoon and before versus after SCLEW was examined. Results Analyses of P dc were done using the natural logarithm (In). The mean ± standard error (SE) In(P dc ) measured in the am versus pm on 16 non-CL wearers did not differ significantly (−2.56 ± 0.16 vs. −2.69 ± 0.15, respectively; P = 0.46). In contrast, the mean ± SE ln(P dc ) in 15 subjects after 2 (−1.73 ± 0.183, P P P = 0.02) of SCLEW was substantially greater than that measured before lens wear (−2.42 ± 0.159 ln(nm/sec)). Interestingly, the mean ± SE In(P dc ) measured in the afternoon on seven subjects after 13 weeks of SCLEW was similar to their average baseline In(P dc ) (−2.62 ± 0.27 vs. −2.52 ± 0.243, respectively; P = 0.54). Further analysis showed that P dc was highest in the morning and decreased approximately 12.5%/hour ( P Conclusions Sleeping without CLs does not appear to alter P dc ; however, 2 weeks of SCLEW caused a 99% increase in permeability without observable changes by slit-lamp examination. Increases in P dc appear greatest in the morning after SCLEW and then decrease exponentially during the day. Whether changes in P dc will predict CL-associated keratopathy needs further study.
Cross-depth analysis of marine bacterial networks suggests downward propagation of temporal changes

Cross-depth analysis of marine bacterial networks suggests downward propagation of temporal changes
Gasoline Vapor Pressure Reduction-an Option for Cleaner Air

Information from the literature and from on-going test programs (government and industry) was ana lyzed with regard to the effect of gasoline Reid vapor pressure (RVP) on total vehicle hydrocarbon (BC) emissions, including evaporative, refueling, and exhaust emissions. A reduction in the aver age RVP of summer gasolines from present commer cial levels to 9 psi was estimated to decrease total vehicle hydrocarbon emissions by 9-25 per cent. With such reductions, hydrocarbon emission inventories for three major cities (Detroit, New York, and Dallas) would be decreased by 3-7 per cent and, consequently, local ambient ozone levels would be reduced as much as 9 ppb. Ac cordingly , in many areas of the country, RVP reduction could make an important contribution toward achievement of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) of 120 ppb ozone. Gasoline vapor pressure reduction to 9 RVP would provide slightly greater control of total vehicle HC emissions than would service station (Stage II) or on-board control of refueling emis sions. More importantly, RVP control would pro vide immediate emissions reductions for the en tire vehicle population (rather than a gradual phase-in of that benefit tied either to new vehicle sales and scrapping of old cars or to installation of Stage II equipment). Although low RVP gasoline might cost about 1 percent more than present summer gasoline, RVP control would be competitive with on-board or Stage II control on a cost-effectiveness basis. New data confirm that cold driveability at intermediate temperatures would not be impaired by control of summer-gasoline RVP to 9 psi.
Axud1 Integrates Wnt Signaling and Transcriptional Inputs to Drive Neural Crest Formation

Neural crest cells are induced at the neural plate border by the combined action of transcription factors and signaling molecules. Here, we show that Axud1, a downstream effector of Wnt signaling, represents a critical missing link that integrates signaling and transcriptional cues to mediate neural crest formation. Axud1 is a transcription factor expressed in neural crest progenitors in a Wnt1/β-catenin-dependent manner. Axud1 loss leads to downregulation of multiple genes involved in neural crest specification, similar to the effects of Wnt1 knockdown. Importantly, Axud1 is sufficient to rescue neural crest formation after disruption of Wnt signaling. Furthermore, it physically interacts with neural plate border genes Pax7 and Msx1 in vivo to directly activate transcription of stem cell factor FoxD3, initiating the neural crest program. Thus, Axud1 integrates Wnt signaling with transcriptional inputs to endow the neural crest with its unique molecular signature.
Basalts as probes of planetary interiors: Constraints on the chemistry and mineralogy of their source regions

Basalt magmas, derived by the partial melting of planetary interiors, have compositions that reflect the pre-accretionary history of the material from which the planet formed, the planets, subsequent evolutionary history, the chemistry and mineralogy of the source regions, and the intensive thermodynamic parameters operating at the source and emplacement sites. Studies of basalt suites from the Earth, its Moon, and the eucrite parent body reveal compositional differences intrinsic to their source regions which are, in turn, a characteristic of the planet and its formational and evolutionary history. Major interplanetary differences are observed in iron, Mg(Mg + Fe2+), TiO2, Al2O3, Na2O, Cr, Ni, and in volatile element abundances. The most primitive mare basalts have Mg#s ∼ 0.6, on the Earth they are 0.70–0.72 for mid-ocean ridge basalts (MORBs) and up to 0.9 for Archean peridotitic komatiites. Eucrites have Mg#s approaching 0.5 (excepting Binda). These differences reflect inherent differences in Mg(Mg + Fe2+) of their sources. Striking differences in the TiO2 abundances of the planetary basalts reflect both inter- and intra-planetary variations in source chemistry. Primitive MORBs and primitive oceanic intraplate tholeiites have a factor of 2–3 difference in TiO2 at comparable Mg# (0.7–1.2 vs 2–3 wt.% respectively). Three major titania groups are recognized in the mare suite; high TiO2 (8–13 wt.%), low TiO2 (2–5 wt.%) and very low TiO2 (<1 wt.%). The eucrites have TiO2 contents <1 wt.%. The mare basalts and eucrites have pronounced Na2O depletion relative to all terrestrial basalts. This is a consequence of the preplanetary accretion loss of volatiles from the material that formed the Moon and the eucrite parent bodies. Mare basalts have consistently lower Al2O3 contents than the terrestrial basalts. This may be due either to an inherently lower content of Al2O3 in the mare sources or it may reflect Al2O3 retention in an aluminous phase. The transition metals are fractionated in all three basalt suites. For terrestrial basalts this may reflect core-separation; however, in the case of the Moon and eucrite parent bodies pre-accretionary separation of metal and silicates is a more reasonable explanation. A pronounced Cr anomaly is observed in terrestrial MORBs but not in the mare basalts. This appears to be related to fO2 differences in the respective mantles. Overall rare earth element abundances are comparable between all three objects. Mare basalts have a pronounced negative Eu anomaly which is inherited from their source region and is record of plagioclase removal from crystallizing magma ocean early in lunar history (4.4–4.6 Ga). Early separation of plagioclase on the Earth appears to have been a relatively unimportant process.
Restricted idiotypic profile of anti-phosphorylcholine antibodies induced by carrier-specific helper T cell clones

The primary antibody response of C57BL/6 mice to phosphorylcholine (PC) is dominated by immunoglobulins of the T15 idiotype family. Using monoclonal antibodies that define individual idiotopes (Id) of T15, it has been shown that the antibody plaque-forming cells (PFC) arise from heterogeneous population of B cells that may express some but not all T15 Id. In the present study, we tested the ability of antigen (keyhole limpet hemocyanin, KLH)-specific CD4+ T cell clones (Th) to provide help for various T15 B cell subsets in response to PC-KLH in vitro. Four independently derived, KLH-specific Th clones were found to provide quantitative help (80-120 PFC/culture of 10(6) B cells) which was comparable to KLH-primed, unselected T cells. However, the response in the presence of the cloned T cells was idiotopically restricted: T15 idiotopes B24-44 and B36-75 were expressed on 60% to 90% PFC, whereas Id AB1-2 and B36-82 were not present (0%-20% PFC). All of these Id were highly expressed in cultures with KLH-primed, unselected splenic T cells. Evidently, the cloned Th cells provided help to only a subset of idiotypically distinct B cells. Bulk spleen T cells from unprimed donors by themselves did not provide any help for the primary response to PC-KLH. However, when these cells were added to the cultures containing B cells and KLH-specific Th clones, the repertoire of the response was fully restored, including the AB1-2/B36-82 Id (50%-80% PFC). These results suggest the existence of an auxiliary helper mechanism that may be required for activation of some B cells in addition to the antigen-specific Th cells.
Matching Books and Readers: Selecting Literature for English Learners

Students learning English as a new language are the fastest-growing group in U.S. schools today. These students speak many languages, their reading levels cover a wide range, and they experience great cognitive demands as they learn both language and content in order to participate fully in class. Literature can play a critical role in immersing children in a new language, and school and classroom libraries are integral parts of this process. This article offers guidelines for selecting fiction, poetry, and nonfiction literature that can facilitate the language development and reading comprehension of English learners along with suggested lists of children's books for each genre. A variety of techniques for sharing literature is also suggested, including Reading aloud regularly to provide a fluent model of reading Drawing attention to featured authors or books with bulletin board displays Spotlighting a book of the week through book talks or by reading excerpts aloud Teachers also need to step back and provide time and freedom of choice for students to enjoy books and continue to add to the collection as students' language proficiencies develop and their reading tastes mature.
Feline visceral hemangiosarcoma.

Background: Feline visceral hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is an uncommon tumor, and the clinical progression and outcome are rarely reported. Hypothesis: The prognosis of feline visceral HSA is poor because of severe clinical signs, anemia, and a high rate of metastasis. Animals: The medical records of 26 client-owned cats with visceral HSA were reviewed. Methods: Multi-institutional retrospective study. Results: The most common historical findings and clinical signs included lethargy, anorexia, respiratory difficulty, collapse, and vocalizing. Eighty-two percent of cats were anemic, and aspartate transaminase was increased in 53% of the study population. Metastatic lung disease was noted in 33% of affected cats. In 75% of the cats, abdominal ultrasonography identified a specific location of HSA. However, ultrasound identification of all multifocal lesions was successful only in 3/9 cats (33%). Tumor location was identified in the following organs: liver (35%), small intestine (31%), large intestine (31%), abdominal lymph node (31%), mesentery (27%), spleen (23%), lung (19%), omentum (12%), brain (8%), pancreas (8%), and diaphragm (8%). Multifocal HSA was noted in 77% of cats. Three cats received adjuvant chemotherapy (doxorubicin). Seventy-one percent of euthanized cats were euthanized within 1 day of diagnosis. The median survival time of the remaining cats (n = 6) was 77 days (range, 23–296 days). Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Feline visceral HSA is most often multifocal at the time of diagnosis. The prognosis appears poor, and the number of cats receiving chemotherapy is low.
Multi-finger flexible graphene field effect transistors with high bendability

Highly bendable graphene field-effect transistors are fabricated on polyimide films. The device offers robust performance against various conditions including immersion in liquids, and dynamic loading tests, which are hazardous to conventional electronics. Bendability of the sample is tested with the bending radius of down to 1.3 mm; the devices remain fully functional with less than 8.7% reduction and no reduction in the electron and hole mobility after repeated bending tests, respectively. Multi-finger electrodes are implemented on flexible substrates to enhance its current drive. Silicon-nitride passivation offers efficient chemical protection over diverse liquids and robust mechanical protection against impacts.
A Bibliometric Snapshot of The Journal of Higher Education and Its Impact on the Field

In recent decades the field of higher education has grown exponentially; however, little research examines a particular journal and its impact on the field. The purpose of this study was to conduct a brief bibliometric analysis and discuss the impact of The Journal of Higher Education (1998–2002), a premier journal in the discipline.
Air carrier activity at major hub airports and changing interline practices in the United States' airline industry

Abstract This paper presents data on air carrier activity at major hub airports and documents changing interline practices among carriers. Both developments have implications for understanding the evolving structure of the airline industry, as well as the nature of competition in the industry.
Telephone Administered Cognitive-behavioral Therapy for the Treatment of Depression in a Rural Primary Care Clinic

The purpose of this study was to pilot a telephonically delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy to treat moderate to severe depression in patients from rural primary care settings where specialized mental health care is scarce. The goal was to obtain preliminary evidence of safety and efficacy. Depression is treated principally in primary care, however the outcomes are poor. Outcomes for depression in rural primary care settings are worse than in urban settings in part due to lack of access to specialized mental health care. This study examined the potential utility and safety of telephone-administered Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (T-CBT) for the treatment of depression in a rural primary care setting. Eight patients from a rural primary care clinic with significant depression were enrolled in 8 weeks of T-CBT administered by trained psychologists. Patients showed significant improvements in diagnostic status, as well as reductions in depression based the Beck Depression Inventory-II and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, and there were no adverse events or problems with patient safety.
Nanosecond Pulse Generator Using Diode Opening Switch for Cell Electroperturbation Studies

Studies of short pulse cell electroperturbation require high-voltage nanosecond pulses delivered to low- impedance electroporation cuvette loads. We present the design and operation of such a pulse generator based on series and parallel connected ordinary rectifying diodes as an opening switch. The generator is designed to produces 5 ns wide, 10 kV amplitude pulses into a 10 Omega cuvette load. The design incorporates a primary IGBT switch. Pulses produced by the IGBT are compressed by one low- loss, nanocrystalline, saturable core compression stages. The compressed pulses are fed to the diode opening switch through a fast, ferrite saturable core transformer. The all-solid-state design results in reproducible pulses and reliable, long-life operation. The prototype system currently generates pulses of 18.4 ns wide and 4.56 kV amplitude under repetition rate of 20 Hz.
Flexibility and Tenant Mix in Real Estate Projects

Abstract This paper presents a model in which owners choose the optimal mix of tenants. Tenant types are broadly defined to include not only the standard distinctions (office, retail, industrial, residential), but also more subtle distinctions such as the nature of business (store type in shopping mall), preferences (high-quality versus no-frills), or degree of credit risk. There are three key features of the model. First, relative rent levels for different tenant types vary stochastically over time. Second, tenant demands for space are interrelated and may produce positive or negative externalities for other tenants. Third, altering the current mix results in the payment of adjustment costs. Using the methods of option pricing theory, the intertemporally optimal tenant mix is derived and analyzed. In particular, several factors are identified which impact the degree of landlord "cautiousness" in altering the current mix. Finally, the value of the optimal policy is decomposed into two forms of flexibility: dynamic flexibility emanating from the sequence of options to alter the mix in the future, and static flexibility resulting from choosing an initial optimally diversified "portfolio" of tenant types.
Microstructure of a sialon composite prepared by hot pressing and reactive sintering of β-Si3N4 coated with amorphous Al2O3

Abstract A composite microstructure, consisting of β-sialon, O-sialon and X-sialon phases, was produced by coating β-Si 3 N 4 particles with amorphous alumina followed by hot pressing and reactive sintering at 1923 K. The microstructure, chemistry of the phases and interphase interfaces of this ceramic were characterized by TEM and high resolution AEM. Both polyhedral and elongated β-sialon grains were observed. TEM examination showed the formation of a large number of β-sialon grains and PEELS and EDS X-ray microanalysts in AEM revealed they had varying amounts of aluminum and oxygen contents. HREM examination of several interphase interfaces and triple junctions suggests that the amount of glassy phase in the produced ceramic is substantially lower compared to those reported in the literature. This is of importance for high temperature properties. ©
The prolactin gene is located on chromosome 6 in humans

The gene for prolactin has been located on chromosome 6 in humans. DNA fragments of 4.8 and 4.0 kilobases containing prolactin gene sequences were identified in human genomic DNA, whereas DNA fragments of 7.4, 3.6, and 3.3 kilobases containing prolactin gene sequences were found in mouse cells. In somatic cell hybrids of human and mouse cells the 7.4-, 3.6-, and 3.3-kilobase mouse fragments were always present, whereas the 4.8- and 4.0-kilobase human fragments were only present when human chromosome 6 was also present. We conclude that the prolactin gene resides on chromosome 6, a different location from those of the genes for the related hormones chorionic somatomammotropin and growth hormone.
The relationship between multi-drug resistance and resistance to natural-killer-cell and lymphokine-activated killer-cell lysis in human leukemic cell lines

Results concerning a possible link between susceptibility to natural-cell-mediated immune cytolysis and the multi-drug resistance (MDR) phenotype are conflicting. We evaluated in human acute lymphocytic leukemia the relationship between acquired drug resistance and susceptibility to cytolysis mediated by endogenous, interferon-activated, and interleukin-2-activated natural cytotoxic cells. Eight human leukemia drug-resistant/sensitive cell line pairs were evaluated; drug-resistant sub-lines included those selected for primary resistance to adriamycin, etoposide, teniposide, vincristine, and vinblastine. A majority of P-glycoprotein-positive MDR sub-lines displayed slight but statistically significant resistance to endogenous and/or interferon-activated natural-killer(NK)-cell-mediated lysis, as compared with the drug-sensitive parental type. P-glycoprotein-negative sub-lines displayed variable NK susceptibility; within this group, the variants selected for primary etoposide resistance were more susceptible to NK cytolysis than parental cells. Results of cold-target-inhibition experiments suggest that altered NK susceptibility does not arise solely from modulation of NK target recognition and adherence structures. IL2-activated killer (LAK) cells lysed both drug-sensitive and drug-resistant lines. Two MDR lines selected for primary etoposide resistance displayed enhanced LAK susceptibility. In contrast, the 2 variants selected for resistance to adriamycin exhibited partial resistance to LAK-mediated killing, which could be overcome at high effector-to-target ratios. Our results support the development of interleukin-2/LAK immunotherapy for the treatment of leukemias with acquired drug resistance.
Supercubane Mixed-Valence Tridecanuclear Manganese Complex

[Mn13O8(OEt)6(O2CPh)12] was prepared and its X-ray structure has been determined. It is the largest cluster in which there are three oxidation states of a given metal ion in one molecule. The core of the complex is a supercubane [MnIVMnIII6MnII6(μ5-O)6(μ3-O)2(μ3-OEt)6]12+. The magnetochemistry of the compound shows that only weak antiferromagnetic exchange interactions are present, and the ground state has ST = 15/2. Six novel μ5-oxide ions support the frame of the supercubane.
Temporal dynamics of dissolved oxygen in a floating- leaved macrophyte bed

Summary 1. Oxygen concentrations in shallow vegetated areas of aquatic systems can be extremely dynamic. In these waters, characterizing the average oxygen content or frequency of low oxygen events (hypoxia) may require high frequency measurements that span seasons and even years. In this study, moored sondes were used to collect 15-min interval dissolved oxygen (DO) readings in an embayment of the tidal Hudson River with dense coverage by an invasive floating leaved plant (Trapa natans) and in adjacent open waters. Measurements were made from late spring to summer over a 2-year period (2005, 2006). 2. Oxygen concentrations were far more dynamic in the vegetated embayment than in the adjacent open waters and while hypoxic conditions never occurred in the open waters, they occurred frequently in the vegetated site. Overall the vegetated site was hypoxic (DO < 2.5 mg L−1) 30% of the time and had an average oxygen concentration of 5.1 mg L−1. Oxygen concentration was significantly (P < 0.0001, anova) related to season, year and tide. Low tide periods during summer of 2006 had the lowest average oxygen concentration and the highest frequency of hypoxia. 3. The greater hypoxia in summer than spring is related to changes in plant morphology. In the spring and early summer when plants are submersed hypoxia occurs at lower frequency and duration than in the summer when dense floating vegetation covers the water. The tidal pattern in oxygen is related to hydrologic exchange with the non-vegetated open waters. Year-to-year variation may be related to relatively small changes in plant biomass between years. 4. Oxygen concentrations in aquatic systems can be critical to habitat quality and can have cascading impacts on redox sensitive nutrient and metal cycling. For some systems with dynamic oxygen patterns neither weekly spot sampling nor short-duration, high-frequency measurements may be sufficient to characterize oxygen conditions of the system.
Gelation of Crude Myofibrillar Protein Isolated From Beef Heart Under Antioxidative Conditions

Oxidation inhibition during washing, as it affects gelling properties and binding strength of beef heart myofibrillar protein, was investigated. Crude myofibrils isolated by repeated washing in the presence of propyl gallate, ascorbate and tripolyphosphate had a lower TBA value and formed stronger gels (puncture and compression strengths) in the pH range 5.8–7.0 and in 0.6M NaCl than the control myofibrils. Inhibition of oxidation increased tensile stress of myofibrillar gels and enhanced bind strength in restructured meat. Functionality of myofibrillar protein could be protected by antioxidants used in the washing process.
Suppression of methionine sulfoximine seizures by intranigral γ-vinyl GABA injection

Studies were undertaken to determine whether enhancement of GABAergic transmission within the substantia nigra could inhibit seizures caused by the novel, long latency convulsant, L-methionine, sulfoximine (MSO; 200 mg/kg i.p.). Bilateral injections of gamma-vinyl GABA (10 micrograms/side) into several brain sites resulted in varying degrees of protection against MSO-induced seizures. However, significant protection was afforded only when gamma-vinyl GABA was infused into the nigra. The protective effect was reduced when injections were made at sites 2 mm dorsal to the nigra, and was further diminished when the drug was injected into the striatum. These results further support the hypothesis that elevation of cerebral GABA levels is protective against a range of experimentally induced seizures, particularly when the substantia nigra is the target of such manipulations.
Pre- and post-eruption diffuse flow variability among tubeworm habitats at 9°50′ north on the East Pacific Rise

Abstract A seafloor eruption at 9°50′N East Pacific Rise (EPR) in 2005–2006 fundamentally changed the fluid chemical and biological community composition throughout the region. Prior to the eruption (in 2004 and 2005), this region of the EPR was dominated by siboglinid ( Riftia pachyptila ) tubeworms and bathymodiolin ( Bathymodiolus thermophilus ) mussels. Following the eruption, the tubeworm, Tevnia jerichonana , was the first observed sessile megafauna to have colonized nascent vent openings. The eruption provided the unique opportunity to compare species-specific habitat chemistry and address previously documented differences in the colonization order of tubeworm species hypothesized to be due to the different physiological tolerances to changing vent fluid chemistry. We coupled in situ electrochemical measurements of free sulfide (S free ), Σ total sulfide, O 2 , Fe(II), Mn(II), and other S(-II) species with the occurrence of tubeworm colonies to document and compare, for the first time, the chemical habitats of the dominant tubeworm fauna on the East Pacific Rise, and the pre-and post-eruptive diffuse fluid chemistry in the region. Median sulfide concentrations increased two to four fold from 2004–2005 when R. pachyptila were dominant to 2006–2008 when T. jerichonana were dominant, and median oxygen conditions decreased from 40–58 μM to below the detection limit of 3–5 μM over the same period. These data suggest fundamental differences between these tubeworm habitats, as well as the possibility of increased tolerance for microaerophilic conditions in T. jerichonana . Sulfide-to-Temperature ( S/T ) ratios increased from before (2004) to after the eruption (2006–2007). However, S/T ratios at two of the sites in 2005 increased from 2004 indicating that a part of the hydrothermal vent field may have been “heating up” prior to the eruption. The results of diffuse flow habitat chemistry provide data for the first time that R. pachyptila and T. jerichonana tubeworms may preferentially inhabit different chemical habitats.
Trypanosoma musculi: characterization of the T-lymphocyte dependency of immunity by selective immunomodulation of the mouse, Mus musculus.

Trypanosoma musculi is a hemoflagellate parasite producing a characteristic course of infection in the mouse, terminating in elimination of the parasite from the vascular system with permanent immunity to reinfection. While this elimination is known to require functional T lymphocytes, the role of these cells has remained undefined. The current study examined the role of T-lymphocyte dependency by the selective in vivo depletion of T-lymphocyte subsets by monoclonal antibodies or immunosuppressive pharmacologic agents. In the former approach, monoclonal antibodies specific for the murine T-lymphocyte surface antigens Thy 1.2, Lyt 2, or L3T4 were administered to mice, resulting in functional depletion of either all T lymphocytes or the T-helper or T-cytotoxic subsets. Subsequent infection with T. musculi revealed that elimination of the T-helper, but not the T-cytotoxic, phenotype resulted in a prolonged and elevated parasitemia. This enhancement of parasitemia was similar to that produced with depletion of all T lymphocytes (i.e., Thy 1.2+ cells), suggesting that the T-helper cell was most important in parasite elimination. In the latter approach, pharmacologic agents displaying selective immunosuppressive activity were employed to inactivate, rather than destroy, T-lymphocyte subpopulations. In vivo inactivation of T-helper lymphocytes by the fungal metabolite cyclosporin-A enhanced the level of parasitemia in treated animals and resulted in a protracted duration of infection. In contrast, treatment with the highly substituted anthracenedione AEAD, which has been demonstrated to selectively inactivate T-cytotoxic cells, had no appreciable effect on the kinetics of infection. These results strongly suggest that the T-lymphocyte dependency of Trypanosoma musculi elimination is due predominantly to the action of the T-helper, rather than T-cytotoxic, lymphocyte.
Uncontrollable Computational Growth in Theoretical Physics

Some new results in the theory of synchronous parallel computation indicate there may be fundamentally unavoidable limitations to computing in certain kinds of large computational problems arising naturally in science and engineering. These limitations are in the nature of uncontrolled growth (discontinuous jumps) in computation times under fixed programming schemes, and arise for computations allowing arbitrary (uniform) inputs overFn for sufficiently largen, whereF is a finite field. Instances of such discontinuity may appear, for example, in very-large-scale Monte Carlo simulations, such as those being contemplated for carrying out quantum chromodynamics (QCD) computations on lattices of substantially larger size than is now practicable. In this case, the QCD simulation may encounter abnormally (and unexplained) long run times on particular internally generated updates, resulting in distortion among timeweighted runs. The mechanism of these updates is believed to satisfy our necessary assumption of fixed encodings over uniform inputs.
Influence of metallic tubes on the reliability of CNTFET SRAMs: error mechanisms and countermeasures

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are considered as a possible successor to the CMOS technology. The adoption of these nanodevices for designing large VLSI systems, however, is limited by the unreliable manufacturing process. In this paper, we investigate the possibility of using CNTFETs to build SRAM arrays. We analyze the error mechanisms and show how stuck-at faults and pattern sensitive faults are caused by metallic tubes in different transistors of a 6-T SRAM cell. The results indicate the need of stronger error detecting codes than the widely used single-error-correcting, double-error-detecting codes in CMOS SRAMs.
New FDA-approved woman-controlled, latex-free barrier contraceptive device “FemCap”

Abstract Objectives: To provide a woman-controlled vaginal barrier contraceptive device that not only prevents pregnancy, but also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Methods: The FemCap is designed to cover and protect the cervix completely—the portal of entry for sperm, bacteria and viruses—and the site of chemokine coreceptors for the HIV virus (CCR-5 and CXCR-4). The FemCap is an FDA-approved cervical barrier device that is designed with a unique delivery system that stores and delivers any microbicide on the vaginal side. This ensures immediate contact of the microbicide with invading microorganisms and the HIV virus. Results: Many microbicides, even soap and water, lemon juice, and Nonoxynol-9, can destroy the fragile HIV virus in the lab; none have proven yet to be effective in the vagina. In fact, Nonoxynol-9 increases HIV transmission if applied over the cervix. This is due to the disruption of the microbicides to the fragile columnar cervical and uterine epithelium. Conclusion: To minimize the transmission of STIs/HIV it is critical to use a mechanical cervical barrier with a microbicide reservoir on the vaginal side such as the FemCap. This ensures immediate contact of the microbicide with the HIV virus upon deposition into the vagina.
Mechanism in Nerve Centres

MACCURDY, in his stimulating book, “Common Principles in Psychology and Physiology”, has assailed the mechanistic interpretation of reflex function as incompatible with known facts. He concedes that the nerve impulse, as exhibited in the peripheral nerve fibre, may be explicable on a physical basis, but he insists that as soon as we encounter the function of the nerve centre, even as exemplified in the simplest reflex arc, we are forced to recognise the presence of something quite apart from any physical mechanism. He contends that the nerve centre does not merely conduct impulses (as does the nerve fibre) but produces them. MacCurdy further objects to the assumption of physical mechanism in the nerve centre on three specific grounds; namely, a machine “cannot change itself or its functions to meet new conditions; it does not improve its performance with practice; it cannot perform some particular function depending originally on one part, after that part is destroyed”.
Cautionary Remarks on the Use of Clusterwise Regression

Clusterwise linear regression is a multivariate statistical procedure that attempts to cluster objects with the objective of minimizing the sum of the error sums of squares for the within-cluster regression models. In this article, we show that the minimization of this criterion makes no effort to distinguish the error explained by the within-cluster regression models from the error explained by the clustering process. In some cases, most of the variation in the response variable is explained by clustering the objects, with little additional benefit provided by the within-cluster regression models. Accordingly, there is tremendous potential for overfitting with clusterwise regression, which is demonstrated with numerical examples and simulation experiments. To guard against the misuse of clusterwise regression, we recommend a benchmarking procedure that compares the results for the observed empirical data with those obtained across a set of random permutations of the response measures. We also demonstrate the potential for overfitting via an empirical application related to the prediction of reflective judgment using high school and college performance measures.
Photoelectric Response of Selenium-type Photovoltaic Cells to X-Rays

A COMMERCIALLY available selenium-type photovoltaic cell was irradiated with X-rays produced with a commercial type of low-voltage X-ray tube with a thermionic cathode and an inclined copper target. Lead covers with circular apertures of different diameters were placed over the photocell to alter the flux of X-rays on the surface of the cell at a constant X-radiation intensity, and the X-radiation intensity was varied by changing the anode current of the X-ray tube. Fig. 1 shows a family of curves representing the photocell current, I p as a function of the X-ray tube anode current, I a, with the anode voltage, V a as parameter, the curves having been obtained with a distance of 25 mm. between the photosensitive surface of the cell and the centre of the target of the X-ray tube, 17.5 mm. of the distance being in the vacuum space of the tube, 1.5 mm. the thickness of its cylindrical envelope of soda-lime glass, and the remainder of the air space between the tube and the photocell surface. The curves marked A refer to an aperture of 240 mm.2 in the lead cover, and those marked B refer to a 60-mm.2 aperture.
Improved software reliability by application of scorecard reviews

To support development of more reliable software, AMSAA has developed a software reliability scorecard offered free of charge to department of defense employees and their contractors. The scorecard methodology provides a structured and transparent approach to assess and improve software reliability practices. AMSAA's new software reliability scorecard assesses seven key areas of software development and sustainment: Program Management, Requirements Management, Design Capabilities, System Design, Design for Reliability, (Customer) Test & Acceptance, and Fielding & Sustainment. Across the categories a total of 57 specific elements are examined. The scorecard evaluates the risk being taken in each of the key areas separately and also assesses the overall risk of the effort. The instrument captures the rationale for the assessment score given and identifies them along with recommendations for reducing individual risks.
Survey for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococci

Abstract The incidence of isolation of Staphylococcus aureus strains resistant to methicillin is increasing in England and other European countries, whereas there have been only isolated reports of resistance in the United States. We thought this contrast might be related to the use of special sensitive screening techniques (i.e., incubation at 30 C, prolonged incubation, use of 5% sodium chloride-agar medium, and use of a large inoculum) in these other countries. A survey was undertaken in a hospital in Philadelphia to detect methicillin-resistant S. aureus. In spite of using large inocula, 5% sodium chloride-agar medium, and prolonged incubation at 30 C, no strains of S. aureus resistant to methicillin were found.
Emissions from the laboratory combustion of wildland fuels: Particle morphology and size

[1] The morphology of particles emitted by wildland fires contributes to their physical and chemical properties but is rarely determined. As part of a study at the USFS Fire Sciences Laboratory (FSL) investigating properties of particulate matter emitted by fires, we studied the size, morphology, and microstructure of particles emitted from the combustion of eight different wildland fuels (i.e., sagebrush, poplar wood, ponderosa pine wood, ponderosa pine needles, white pine needles, tundra cores, and two grasses) by scanning electron microscopy. Six of these fuels were dry, while two fuels, namely the tundra cores and one of the grasses, had high fuel moisture content. The particle images were analyzed for their density and textural fractal dimensions, their monomer and agglomerate number size distributions, and three different shape descriptors, namely aspect ratio, root form factor, and roundness. The particles were also probed with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirming their carbonaceous nature. The density fractal dimension of the agglomerates was determined using two different techniques, one taking into account the three-dimensional nature of the particles, yielding values between 1.67 and 1.83, the other taking into account only the two-dimensional orientation, yielding values between 1.68 and 1.74. The textural fractal dimension that describes the roughness of the boundary of the two-dimensional projection of the particle was between 1.10 and 1.19. The maximum length of agglomerates was proportional to a power a of their diameter and the proportionality constant and the three shape descriptors were parameterized as function of the exponent a.
CO/sub 2/ range-Doppler imaging systems

A technology program, consisting of parallel target signature measurements and component development efforts, is being conducted to evaluate CO/sub 2/ range-Doppler imaging systems. This slide presentation will describe the measurement effort and review progress in stable local oscillator, waveform generator, and rapid optical beam steering antenna component development areas.