cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Cell Ontology (CL)

An ontological representation of the entities relevant to biological research is urgently needed. The cell ontology developed by Bard and colleagues (CL) (Bard et al. 2005) makes a significant contribution towards fulfilling this need by providing an ontology of cell types. The CL has already proven useful for data annotation (e.g. Grumbling et al. 2006), although the ontology’s potential utility goes well beyond that specific application. For example, using the number of distinct cell types in an organism as a measure of biological complexity, Vogel and Chothia (2006) compared the proteomes of 38 organisms of varying complexity and identified patterns in the evolution and expansion of protein domain superfamilies. This work has implications for some of the fundamental questions in biology, such as understanding the processes by which physiology becomes more intricate, new cell types arise, and biological complexity increases. While Vogel and Chothia did not yet utilize the CL for this work, they cite Bard et al. (2005) and describe the ontology’s value for improving and extending their analysis. Thus, in addition to its great utility for database annotation, the CL has the potential to play a significant role in basic scientific inquiry.The prospect of using the CL (and other ontologies) for this type of scientific research is extremely exciting but also imposes requirements on the level of formal rigor applied in ontology development, on the adequacy of the ontology as a representation of reality, and on its adherence to community standards of best practice. It is with these things in mind that I examined the CL to determine whether any revision would be required before my research group could use it for scientific research.After carefully evaluating the CL, my overall impression is that it does not possess the rigor and exactness required of a reference ontology. Furthermore, the problems I see are significant enough that it would be difficult for my research group to use the CL as our application ontology. While some of the problems could be resolved by changing a relation or rewriting a definition, others would require careful rethinking of the ontology’s foundation, because they involve the scope and organizing principle of the ontology as a whole.
Vasoactive intestinal peptide and helodermin inhibit phospholipase A2 activity in vitro

Abstract We recently reported that the widely distributed neuropeptide vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) reduces inflammatory lung injury due to a variety of agents and inhibits the associated generation of cyclo-oxygenase and lipoxygenase products. We therefore investigated whether VIP may inhibit phospholipase A 2 activity, thus reducing the release of arachidonic acid, the common precursor of all eicosanoids. VIP dose-dependently inhibited PLA 2 of porcine pancreas and of Naja naja venom, as assessed by the release of free [ 3 H]oleic acid from labeled Escherichia coli phospholipids. The potency of VIP was similar to that of mepacrine, with 50% inhibition at 400–500 μM. The closely related peptide helodermin produced 50% inhibition at 200 μM, but secretin and peptide histidine isoleucineamide produced little or no inhibition. The results suggest that VIP and helodermin selectively inhibit PLA 2 in vitro. If this activity is exerted in vivo, it may contribute to the anti-inflammatory activity of these two peptides.
Non-separable Borel, sets, II

Abstract For each infinite cardinal t property of being the union of countably many sets each locally of weight less than t (in symbols, σLW(
Imparting reinforcing property to the taste of morphine through morphine injections

The present experiment tested the hypothesis that the taste of morphine would become a secondary reinforcer for rats made physically dependent on morphine by large, rapid intravenous injections. Rats made dependent by such injections and then withdrawn licked a dilute morphine solution more during a 30-sec licking period than did nondependent rats. A second experiment indicated that rats made physically dependent on morphine by 8 days of rapid injections licked a morphine solution more during withdrawal than did rats made dependent by 8 days of slow infusions. The results supported the preliminary hypothesis.
ASSESSMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS INITIATIVE–KELLGREN AND LAWRENCE SCORING PROJECTS QUALITY USING COMPUTER ANALYSIS

The detection of knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a subjective task, and even two highly experienced and well-trained readers might not always agree on a specific case. This problem is noticeable in OA population studies, in which different scoring projects provide significantly different scores for the same knee X-rays. Here we propose a method for quantitative assessment and comparison of knee X-ray scoring projects in OA population studies. The method works by applying an image analysis method that automatically detects OA in knee X-ray images, and comparing the consistency of the scores when using each of the scoring projects as "gold standard." The method was applied to compare the osteoarthritis initiative (OAI) clinic reading derived Kellgren and Lawrence (K&L) scores to central reading, and showed that when using the derived K&L scores the automatic image analysis method was able to accurately differentiate between healthy joints and moderate OA joints in ~70% of the cases. When the OAI central reading scores were used as gold standard, the detection accuracy was elevated to ~77%. These results show that the OAI central readings scores are more consistent with the X-rays, indicating that the central reading better reflects the radiographic features associated with OA, compared to the OAI K&L scores derived from clinic readings.
Synthesis and characterization of a new binucleating schiff base macrocycle and its nickel(II) and copper(II) complexes

Abstract A new binucleating ligand, m -xyl-bis(3-bae)) and its copper(II) and nickel(II) complexes have been prepared and characterized by various physical techniques. Data for the complexes indicate that they both have square-planar geometries. High resolution 1 H and 13 C NMR confirm the square-planar geometry of the binuclear nickel(II) complex is maintained in non-coordinating solvents. The magnetic moment of the copper(II) complex is typical of square-planar complexes and the EPR spectrum in solution indicates the absence of any magnetic coupling between metal centers. In addition, both metal complexes display irreversible electrochemical behavior on various electrode surfaces.
Hierarchical Bayesian analysis of the seemingly unrelated regression and simultaneous equations models using a combination of direct Monte Carlo and importance sampling techniques

Computationally efficient simulation methods for hierarchical Bayesian analysis of the seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) and simultaneous equations models (SEM) are proposed and applied. These methods combine a direct Monte Carlo (DMC) approach and an importance sampling procedure to calculate Bayesian estimation and prediction results, namely, Bayesian posterior densities for parameters, predictive densities for future values of variables and associated moments, intervals and other quantities. The results obtained by our approach are compared to those yielded by use of MCMC techniques. Finally, we show that our algorithm can be applied to the Bayesian analysis of state space models.
The development of a free operant light-dark discrimination using intracranial reinforcement

Four experimentally naive rats, chronically implanted for self-stimulation, were tested for their ability to acquire a visual discrimination in a free operant situation. Single reinforcing brain shocks were available on a VR 40% schedule during 2-min SD periods, which were alternated randomly with 2-min SΔ periods. Acquisition and extinction measures indicated that stimulus control was rapidly established under these circumstances.
Sexual cannibalism and its relation to male mating success in sagebrush crickets, Cyphoderris strepitans (Haglidae:Orthoptera)

Abstract Abstract. Female sagebrush crickets, Cyphoderris strepitans , feed on the fleshy hind wings of males during copulation, and consume haemolymph flowing from the wounds they inflict. In a laboratory experiment, the mating success of males whose hind wings had been surgically removed (treated) was compared with that of males whose hind wings were left intact (untreated). Treated males called as much as untreated males and were mounted as quickly as untreated males. Some males were able to secure matings even though they had no hind wings. However, the possession of hind wings significantly increased a male's chances of successfully transferring a spermatophore once a female had mounted. Males without hind wings obtained significantly fewer matings, and appeared more vulnerable to injuries inflicted by females on other body parts.
Activation of the fibrin stabilizing factor of plasma by thrombin

Abstract Two new reactions in the final stages of blood coagulation that involve the fibrin stabilizing factor of plasma are described. The factor is first activated by thrombin in the presence of calcium ions. The thrombin-activated form of the factor can then exert its polymerizing effect on fibrin and lead to the formation of a clot which is insoluble in 1% monochloroacetic acid and which thus resembles a normal plasma clot. Calcium ions are essential also for the polymerization reaction.
Effects of Soil Sample Grinding Intensity on Carbon Determination by High‐Temperature Combustion

Abstract Recently, many studies related to carbon (C) sequestration by soils have been reported. However, little information has been reported related to the need for and effects of grinding soils on C analysis by high‐temperature combustion. We studied the effects of grinding five glacially derived soils of varying textural composition and organic matter content to 2‐mm, 1‐mm, 0.5‐mm, 0.25‐mm, and 0.15‐mm particle sizes on the measurement of total, inorganic, and organic C content using a high‐temperature combustion technique. Medium‐textured soils showed significantly higher total and organic C values for the 2‐, 1‐, and 0.5‐mm particle sizes than for the 0.25‐ and 0.15‐mm particle sizes compared to soils that were high in sand or clay. Grinding did not appear to affect inorganic C values. Grinding the soils to 0.15 mm, in all cases, greatly reduced the variability of C values by as much as two‐ to six‐fold when compared to 2‐mm soils. We recommend that soils be ground to pass a 0.15‐mm (100‐mesh) scree...
The in vivo demonstration of cytochrome oxidase in leaves of higher plants.

Abstract Cytochrome oxidase has been shown to mediate oxygen uptake in young, intact leaves of barley, carrot, and spinach, using the criterion of light reversal of carbon monoxide inhibition of respiration. The problem of oxygen evolution by photosynthesis during the period of light reversal was circumvented by the use of isotopic oxygen and a recording mass spectrometer to determine the rate of respiration.
The Neon-to-Magnesium Abundance Ratio as a Tracer of the Source Region of Prominence Material

A survey of all 1000 spectroheliograms in the Skylab spectroheliograph plate collection was made to identify prominences above the limb and prominence-like features. The Ne/Mg abundance ratios obtained from the measurements have been determined from relative intensities of Ne VI and Mg VI lines at 400 A of seven prominences and prominence-like features observed above the solar limb. The derived abundance ratios have values intermediate between the photosphere and corona, while none are as low as the ratio of 0.7 expected in the corona, which implies that the material found in prominences is photospheric in origin. The significance of these results for the formation of prominences is briefly discussed.
Aerobic capacity of young Mexican American adults

Abstract This research's main objective was to determine aerobic capacity in Mexican American young adults. Aerobic capacity was measured using a submaximal treadmill exercise using the Bruce protocol. Sixteen male and five female healthy student volunteers aged 22–30 participated in the experiment. Volumetric oxygen consumption was measured using the breath-by-breath VMaxST oxygen consumption monitor. Results indicate that Mexican American men had a VO 2max of 4.8 l/min (SD=1.75) and a weight adjusted VO 2max of 56.32 ml/kg/min (SD=12.2), while Mexican American women had a VO 2max of 2.8 l/min (SD=0.73), and a weight-adjusted VO 2max of 44.69 ml/kg/min (SD=6.72). Results also indicated that the heart rate was nearly 10 times the rating of perceived exertion at each workload. Relevance to industry Given the changing demographics of the US population, and the work force becoming predominantly Hispanic, it is important to quantify the aerobic capacity of Mexican American young adults for work design.
Measuring registration potential in planar transmission images

Abstract One method of detecting change is an anatomical structure is by comparing elements of a longitudinal series of planar transmission images (i.e. radiographs). Unfortunately, changes in image formation parameters, such as patient placement, prevent successful image registration from occurring. In this paper, an analytic method is described which allows one to quantify the ability to register two planar transmission images. The concepts described in this paper are not dependent on a specific image registration method. In fact, these results hold independent of the registration algorithm used since they are based solely on phenomena occurring during the image formation process.
An integrated experimental and computational approach to laser surface nitriding of Ti–6Al–4V

Abstract Titanium and its alloys have been commonly used in many biological and industrial applications owing to their excellent mechanical and physical properties. However, they have been specifically inadequate for biomedical implants due to their inferior tribological properties (low wear resistance, higher coefficient of friction, and lower hardness). As a remedy, the process of laser nitriding has emerged from the past few decades as a unique method for tailoring the surface microstructures and/or composition of titanium for enhanced tribological characteristics of titanium and its alloys. In the present study, a multiphysics computational model was developed to predict the nitrogen diffusion length into the Ti–6Al–4V alloy under various laser processing conditions (laser power and scanning speed). XRD, SEM and EDS analyses were also conducted for phase identification, microstructural investigation, and estimating the nitrogen concentration, respectively. Both computational and experimental results indicated that the depth of nitrogen diffusion increased with decrease in scanning speed, and subsequent increase in laser interaction time and increase in input laser energy density.
A Kunqu Masterpiece and Its Interpretations: Tanci (The Ballad) from Hong Sheng’s Changsheng dian (Palace of Lasting Life)

Abstract“Cangliang” 蒼凉 (desolate) is how many Kunqu 崑曲 connoisseurs would characterize Tanci 彈詞 (The ballad), scene 38 of Hong Sheng’s 洪昇 (1645–1704) Changsheng dian 長生殿 (The palace of lasting life; henceforth CSD), one of the last masterpieces (jiezuo 杰作; jingdian 經典) of chuanqi 傳奇 drama. Since 1688, the year CSD was completed, Tanci was and still is regularly performed by both amateur and professional performers as vocal music (qingchang 清唱) or as an independent scene-play (zhezixi 折子戲). Historical performances of Tanci and other CSD scene-plays mark critical developments in the history of Kunqu in Qing (1644–1911) and Republican China (1911–1949), as well as more recent decades.
Missing regressor values under conditions of multicollinearity

The performance of some common procedures for replacing missing regressor values is investigated under varying conditions of multicollinearity" Analytical and numerical results indicate that the popular method of substituting sample means for missing values appears preferrable to other more sophisticated procedures given ill-conditioned designs In addition, results indicated that incomplete sample observations should not be thrown away under conditions of extreme multicollinearity.
Proteinuria in a patient receiving anti-VEGF therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma

Background A 59-year-old man who had undergone a left nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma was found to have metastatic disease during a restaging examination. The patient was started on treatment with interferon α2b plus bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor antibody. After 9 months of this therapy, the patient developed proteinuria, which gradually increased to over 6 g/day. Investigations Physical examination, urine and blood analysis, biopsy of the right kidney, and histologic evaluation of the non-neoplastic portion of the left nephrectomy specimen. Diagnosis Thrombotic microangiopathy and IgA immune-complex deposition in the glomerular capillary walls and mesangium. Management Discontinuation of interferon α2b and bevacizumab, control of blood pressure with an angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor and an angiotensin-receptor blocker.
Acral Fibrokeratoma of the Foot Treated with Excision and Trap Door Flap Closure: A Case Report

Acral fibrokeratoma is a relatively rare, benign lesion that is typically found on the fingers and toes but can also be found on the palms and soles. Several case reports have been published of this rare lesion, with only a few investigators describing lesions of the feet. The techniques of using skin from a portion of the mass to close the defect left from mass excision have been poorly reported. Our technique, which we have termed the “trap door flap,” has design similarities to the appearance and mechanics of a trap door. We present the case of a patient with a 7-year history of a slow-growing, soft tissue mass on the plantar and medial aspect of his left hallux. The mass was subsequently excised and closed with a local flap. The flap had healed uneventfully by 2 weeks postoperatively, and the patient denied any evidence of recurrence or pain at 12 months of follow-up.
Quantitative Determination of Heavy Metal Contaminant Complexation by the Carbohydrate Polymer Chitin

Chitin is a cost-efficient and nontoxic biopolymer with potential for use in heavy metal chelation from industrial wastewater. In this study we report the binding strength of chitin and the common water contaminants mercury, copper, iron, nickel, chromium, lead, zinc, cadmium, silver, and cobalt. We have found that the strongest binding takes place with mercury and weakest with cobalt with binding constants of 1.16·105 M−1 and 3.96·103 M−1, respectively. We observed that the formal charge state of the heavy metal inversely affects the binding strength. The divalent metal cation−chitin interactions are all enthalpically driven binding reactions. These results serve to benchmark industrial wastewater treatment by chitin chelation.
Age-related changes in glutamate concentration and synaptosomal glutamate uptake in adult rat striatum.

Abstract It has been suggested that Glutamate (Glu), which has neurotoxic properties and is thought to be the excitatory neurotransmitter release at corticostriatal synapses, might play a role in neurological disorders involving the striatum. To establish normative data which may serve as baseline for evaluating experimental evidence relevant to this proposal, we have studied Glu concentrations and synaptosomal Glu high affinity uptake kinetics in the striatum of male and female rats at various ages from 3 to 19 months. Here we report that all parameters studied (Glu levels, Vmax and Km of uptake) undergo significant changes with advancing age. Striatal Glu concentrations are consistently in the range of 12 mmol/kg wet weight in early adult life (3–6 months) but drop to 10 mmol/kg by 10 months and 9.6 mmol/kg by 19 months (an overall 20% decrease). Concomitantly, significant reductions in Vmax and km of the Glu high affinity transport system occur, suggesting an age-related loss in the number of high affinity Glu transport sites and a compensatory increase in affinity of remaining sites for Glu. Tentatively we propose that degenerative changes in the putatively glutamergic corticostriatal tract, as a normal aspect of aging, is the simplest and most likely explanation for the observed changes. If such changes with normal aging also occur in humans, this must be taken into consideration in the interpretation of studies pertaining to the possible role of Glu in neurological disorders.
Measuring mass loss rates in free burning fires

Accurate data on mass loss rates of fuels in large, free-burning fires are scant. However, the authors report a method of making such measurements, which, when tested, provided reliable data.
Opsonic and protective activity of five human IgM monoclonal antibodies reactive with lipopolysaccharide antigen of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

International Antigen Typing Schema (IATS) serotypes 1, 2, 5, 6, 8 and 11 comprise approximately vn80% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from blood, wounds and respiratory specimens. Five human immunolgobulin M (IgM) monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) reactive with lipopolysaccharide O antigens of these IATS serotypes were studies in an opsonophagocytic assay. The assay employed human polymorphonuclear leukocytes, 2% guinea pig serum as the complement source and MAb. Each MAb promoted killing of inoculum of the homologous LPS serotype. The opsonic activity of each MAb was complement-dependent. In a murine model of Pseudomonas burn wound sepsis the LD50 of five strains of P. aeuruginosa was increased ≥ 22-fold by MAb-treatment (1.0 mg/kg). The mean effective dose of the five MA0bs in mice challenged with approximately 10 LD50 of the homologous LPS serotype ranged from < 0.01 mg/kg to 1.00 mg/kg.
A single‐particle char gasification model

A model is developed for the gasification of a single-char particle in an environment of water, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and methane, existing in the gasification zone of a reactor. The model, consisting of the mass and energy conservation equations, together with the Stefan-Maxwell relations includes the intraparticle effects and the change in internal surface area. It is found that the intraparticle effects and the surface area effects are significant and hence cannot be neglected, and the situation becomes more acute with increasing particle size and high temperatures. Comparisons with other models and existing empirical relations show that the model agrees well when diffusional effects are minimal, but at higher temperature and large pariticle size there is a significant difference. The model may be used to discriminate among various idealized models such as the homogeneous and the shrinking core model. The conyective terms in the Stefan-Maxwell relations have negligible influence. The analysis can be directly used in the modeling studies of gasification reactors and will be so applied in a later paper.
An Exploration of Religious Gender Differences amongst Jewish-American Emerging Adults of Different Socio-Religious Subgroups

Summary This article explores gender differences in the religious experiences of 416 Jewish (Secular, Traditional, and Modern-Orthodox) emerging adults (M Age = 23.16). Prior research has indicated that women are more religious than men cross-culturally. The purpose of this study was to investigate if such gender differences remain applicable to Jewish-American emerging adults given both the changing role of women in society and emerging adults’ prolonged search for identity. Findings reveal that most gender differences in the religious values and experiences of Jewish-American emerging adults are statistically insignificant and when significant, are specific to subgroup. Furthermore, it was found that gender analyses of composite scores do not necessarily accurately report the presence or lack thereof of gender differences in religious development. It is therefore suggested that future research may benefit from the analysis of individual religious items and that efforts be made to explore within-group and between-group differences.
Structure and Biosynthesis of the Marine Streptomycete Ansamycin Ansalactam A and Its Distinctive Branched Chain Polyketide Extender Unit

Reported is the structure and biosynthesis of ansalactam A, an ansamycin class polyketide produced by an unusual modification of the polyketide pathway. This new metabolite, produced by a marine sediment-derived bacterium of the genus Streptomyces, possesses a novel spiro γ-lactam moiety and a distinctive isobutyryl polyketide fragment observed for the first time in this class of natural products. The structure of ansalactam A was defined by spectroscopic methods including X-ray crystallographic analysis. Biosynthetic studies with stable isotopes further led to the discovery of a new, branched chain polyketide synthase extender unit derived from (E)-4-methyl-2-pentenoic acid for polyketide assembly observed for the first time in this class of natural products.
The 1984 Elections

The Elections of 1984. Edited by Michael Nelson. (Washington, DC: Congressional Quarterly Press, 1985.) The Election of 1984. Edited by Gerald Pomper. (Chatham, NJ: Chatham House, 1985.) The American Elections of 1984. Edited by Austin Ranney. (Durham, NC: Duke University Press and the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy, 1985.) Election 84: Landslide Without a Mandate? Edited by Ellis Sandoz and Cecil V. Crabb, Jr. (New York: New American Library, 1985.)
Creutzfeldt-Jakob infection increases adenylate cyclase activity in specific regions of guinea pig brain

Abstract Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is a slow, infectious, progressive neurological disorder which results in human dementia. Synaptic membranes from various brain regions of guinea pigs infected with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease show increased guanyl nucleotide- or 5-hydroxytryptamine-mediated activation of adenylate cyclase. This increased enzyme activity appears due, primarily, to facilitated ‘coupling’ between the GTP-binding protein which stimulates adenylate cyclase (GN s ) and the catalytic moiety of that enzyme rather than increased sensitivity to 5-hydroxytryptamine. It is possible that this phenomenon is due to direct effects of the Creutzfeldt-Jakob infectious agent, or a pathological product resulting from that agent, upon synaptic membrane adenylate cyclase.
Consumer evaluations of new technology-based self-service options: An investigation of alternative models of service quality

Abstract Increasing labor costs and advances in technology are encouraging service firms to consider offering technology-based self-service options to consumers. Yet, little is known about how consumers would evaluate such options. Two alternative models of service quality are proposed based on an attribute versus overall affect approach. The attribute model is based specifically on what consumers would expect from such options. The overall affect model is based on the consumer's feelings toward the use of technology. A study is conducted to test these models for a new (proposed) technology-based self-service option, with and without the effect of different waiting times. Implications for firms in terms of service design and promotion are discussed, and directions for future research are indicated.
The Caribbean presence in Maryland, 1634–1984: An overview

In 1984, the State of Maryland celebrated the triquicentennial of its founding. Among the cultural and ethnic groups that can trace a specific role throughout the State's history from earliest time...
Japanese import price elasticities by region of origin: 1968–1988

Abstract This note provides estimates of aggregate Japanese import demand functions for five regions of origin, using a system-wide model that avoids many of the drawbacks of most previous import demand analyses. The results suggest that: (i) changes in the relative export prices of supplying regions are an important determinant of the geographical composition of Japanese imports, (ii) a number of countries with price sensitive exports can benefit from recent Japanese import promotion programs, and (iii) competition among imports from the supplying regions exists but at a somewhat limited level.
Robustness of L 1 adaptive controllers in the gap metric

This paper derives robust stability margin of an L 1 adaptive controller in the gap metric. For that purpose, first a classical result on robustness of nonlinear input-output systems is reviewed, and an appropriate extension on biased-gain stability is introduced. This extension circumvents the singularity inherent to the analysis of robustness of adaptive systems, and leads to computable robust stability margin of L 1 adaptive controller. A time-delay margin of the L 1 controller is computed as an illustration of the theoretical results.
Parameterizing correlations between hydrometeor species in mixed‐phase Arctic clouds

Mixed-phase Arctic clouds, like other clouds, contain small-scale variability in hydrometeor fields, such as cloud water or snow mixing ratio. This variability may be worth parameterizing in coarse-resolution numerical models. In particular, for modeling processes such as accretion and aggregation, it would be useful to parameterize subgrid correlations among hydrometeor species. However, one difficulty is that there exist many hydrometeor species and many microphysical processes, leading to complexity and computational expense.Existing lower and upper bounds (inequalities) on linear correlation coefficients provide useful guidance, but these bounds are too loose to serve directly as a method to predict subgrid correlations. Therefore, this paper proposes an alternative method that is based on a blend of theory and empiricism. The method begins with the spherical parameterization framework of Pinheiro and Bates (1996), which expresses the correlation matrix in terms of its Cholesky factorization. The values of the elements of the Cholesky matrix are parameterized here using a cosine row-wise formula that is inspired by the aforementioned bounds on correlations. The method has three advantages: 1) the computational expense is tolerable; 2) the correlations are, by construction, guaranteed to be consistent with each other; and 3) the methodology is fairly general and hence maymore » be applicable to other problems. The method is tested non-interactively using simulations of three Arctic mixed-phase cloud cases from two different field experiments: the Indirect and Semi-Direct Aerosol Campaign (ISDAC) and the Mixed-Phase Arctic Cloud Experiment (M-PACE). Benchmark simulations are performed using a large-eddy simulation (LES) model that includes a bin microphysical scheme. The correlations estimated by the new method satisfactorily approximate the correlations produced by the LES.« less
Anderson-Fabry Disease and Other Lysosomal Storage Disorders

Lysosomal storage diseases comprise >40 disorders caused by deficient enzymatic activity of lysosomal enzymes that lead to accumulation of substrates in several organs. This review addresses those diseases that involve the cardiovascular system. This disease is caused by the deficient activity of α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A), which leads to the lysosomal accumulation of globotriaosylceramide. Its inheritance is X-linked and males are usually more frequently and more severely affected than females, and at a younger age. The glycolipid accumulation occurs in several organs including the heart. Thus, the manifestations include cardiac and extracardiac findings. The estimated prevalence is ≈1:40 000 to 1:60 000 males,1 though a recent study suggests a much higher incidence at 1:3100.2 The disease is caused by mutations in the GLA gene which is located at Xq22.1. The gene codes for α-Gal A enzyme with >500 mutations associated with the disease. These include missense and nonsense mutations and splicing defects. For patients with cardiac variant of the disease, GLA mutations are associated with residual enzymatic activity. Prenatal testing is possible and is based on measuring α-Gal A activity or looking for a given pathological GLA mutation in families with known mutations. The latter strategy is also applicable to relatives when patients have a known mutation. Given the location of the GLA gene, an affected male inherits the disease from his mother and can pass it to his daughters only. It is believed that carrier females can develop the disease in part because of random X-chromosome inactivation.3,4 In males with the classic form of the disease, symptoms are noted at a young age and complaints of painful extremities related to peripheral neuropathy and cutaneous lesions often predominate the clinical presentation. The skin lesions (angiokeratoma corporis diffusum) are often in the form of elevated papules …
Performance of true potato seed families. 2. Comparison of transplants vs. seedling tubers

A potato crop can be grown from true potato seed (TPS) either by transplanting seedlings to the field (seedling transplants) or by planting tubers derived from seedlings (seedling tubers). The effect of the planting method on performance of TPS families was evaluated for three types of families, 4x×2x hybrid, open pollinated, and self pollinated. Families from seedling transplants and seedling tubers and their 4x parental clones were compared for tuber yield and specific gravity. Families from tubers had substantially higher yields and significantly more uniform specific gravity than families from transplants. Hybrid seedling tuber families had a higher mean yield than the parental clones and did not differ from them in specific gravity. Selection in the seedling generation could further improve both OP and hybrid families from transplants and from seedling tubers.
Molecular and physiological characterization of natural microbial communities isolated from a traditional Southern Italian processed sausage.

Abstract The development of the natural microbial populations during traditional processing of the “Salame di Senise”, a typical little known sausage produced in the South of Italy, was investigated by using molecular and physiological techniques for taxonomic identification and technological characterization of strains. The application of RAPD-PCR over more than 90 colonies made it possible to isolate 18 bacterial and two yeast biotypes identified by partial rDNA sequencing as belonging mainly to three species of Bacillus, three species of Lactobacillus, three species of Staphylococcus and Debaryomyces hansenii. The physiological analyses revealed that the isolates belonging to Lactobacillus genus were the most acidifying, whereas Staphylococcus strains did not develop significant proteolytic and lipolytic activities. Interestingly, some Bacillus strains produced the highest values of proteolytic and lipolytic activities. The results for the technological properties of Bacillus strains isolated from this Southern Italian sausage, made without a selected starter, suggest that Bacillus strains, always present in meat curing, could play a role in the development of texture and organoleptic characteristics of the sausages.
Computer Adoption and Use by New Mexico Nonfarm Agribusinesses

This research explores characteristics that influence computer adoption and successful use in nonfarm New Mexico agribusinesses. Results indicate that computer adoption is related to firm characteristics such as size and type of business, but unrelated to manager characteristics, including age and education. Manager involvement in the computer purchase decision is the most important characteristic affecting computer effectiveness as measured by user satisfaction and number of applications.
Molecular manipulation using a tunnelling microscope

In a very short time the scanning tunnelling microscope has become an important tool in surface science, and physics in general. Its primary use has been to obtain atomic-resolution images of surfaces, but recently, efforts have been made to use it to manipulate materials as well as image them. One may now reasonably ask if it is possible to move and alter matter predictably on an atomic scale. Here we report the accomplishment of the smallest yet, purposeful, spatially localized changes in matter, effected on a graphite surface. We believe that the changes result from the pinning of individual organic molecules to the graphite. The reverse manipulation, the removal of pinned molecules, has also been demonstrated. Finally, we have evidence that we can remove a portion of a pinned molecule, effectively performing transformations on single molecules using the tunnelling microscope.
Thrombelastography of blood from subjects with chronic renal failure

Blood samples from 23 subjects with chronic renal failure and 19 controls were tested using thrombelastography and other hematologic tests. The uremic subjects were divided into two groups, those who had not yet begun maintenance hemodialysis treatments (12 subjects) and those who had (11 subjects). Compared to those from control subjects, the thrombelastograms from the uremic subjects consistently indicate normal clotting times but significantly elevated amplitudes. The increased amplitudes correlate positively in the dialyzed uremic group with both platelet count and fibrinogen concentration and correlate negatively in both uremic groups with hematocrit. Thrombelastography demonstrates a hypercoagulability in these samples in vitro, despite the prolonged bleeding time that commonly occurs in uremic subjects.
Edge effects and intraguild predation in native and introduced centipedes: evidence from the field and from laboratory microcosms

Human alteration of habitat has increased the proportion of forest edge in areas of previously continuous forest. This edge habitat facilitates invasion of exotic species into remaining fragments. The ability of native species to resist invasion varies and may depend on intrinsic variables such as dispersal and reproductive rates as well as external factors such as rate of habitat change and the density of populations of introduced species in edge habitat. We examined the distributional and competitive relationships of two members of the class Chilopoda, Scolopocryptops sexspinosus, a centipede native to the eastern US, and Lithobius forficatus, an exotic centipede introduced from Europe. We found that L. forficatus was most abundant in edge habitat and S. sexspinosus was most abundant in the interior habitat at our field sites. Although L. forficatus was present in habitat interiors at 11 of 12 sites, there was no correlation between fragment size and numbers of L. forficatus in interior habitat. The native centipede was rarely found occupying fragment edges. We used laboratory microcosms to examine potential competitive interactions and to indirectly assess prey preferences of the two species. In microcosms both species consumed similar prey, but the native centipede, S. sexspinosus, acted as an intraguild predator on the introduced centipede. Native centipedes were competitively superior in both intraspecific and interspecific pairings. Our results suggest that intraguild predation may aid native centipedes in resisting invasion of introduced centipedes from edge habitat.
UTX, a Histone H3-Lysine 27 Demethylase, Acts as a Critical Switch to Activate the Cardiac Developmental Program

The removal of histone H3 lysine27 (H3K27) trimethylation mark is important for the robust induction of many cell type-specific genes during differentiation. Here we show that UTX, a H3K27 demethylase, acts as a critical switch to promote a cardiac-specific gene program. UTX-deficient ESCs failed to develop heart-like rhythmic contractions under a cardiac differentiation condition. UTX-deficient mice show severe defects in heart development and embryonic lethality. We found that UTX is recruited to cardiac-specific enhancers by associating with core cardiac transcription factors and demethylates H3K27 residues in cardiac genes. In addition, UTX facilitates the recruitment of Brg1 to the cardiac-specific enhancers. Together, our data reveal key roles for UTX in a timely transition from poised to active chromatin in cardiac genes during heart development and a fundamental mechanism by which a H3K27 demethylase triggers tissue-specific chromatin changes.
Hydrogen bonds in Al2O3 as dissipative two-level systems in superconducting qubits.

Dissipative two-level systems (TLS) have been a long-standing problem in glassy solids over the last fifty years, and have recently gained new relevance as sources of decoherence in quantum computing. Resonant absorption by TLSs in the dielectric poses a serious limitation to the performance of superconducting qubits; however, the microscopic nature of these systems has yet to be established. Based on first-principles calculations, we propose that hydrogen impurities in Al2O3 are the main source of TLS resonant absorption. Hydrogen is an ubiquitous impurity and can easily incorporate in Al2O3. We find that interstitial H in Al2O3 forms a hydrogen bond (O-H…O). At specific O-O distances, consistent with bond lengths found in amorphous Al2O3 or near Al2O3 surfaces or interfaces, the H atom feels a double well. Tunneling between two symmetric positions gives rise to resonant absorption in the range of 10 GHz, explaining the experimental observations. We also calculate the expected qubit-TLS coupling and find it to lie between 16 and 20 MHz, consistent with experimental measurements.
Development and application of methods for the study of free flavins in plant tissues.

Abstract A simple, sensitive method has been developed for the detection of small amounts of labile naturally occurring flavins as well as photoproducts of decomposition of riboflavin in plants. Plant tissue is homogenized in water containing ammonium sulfate. After removal of solid materials the extract is passed through a column of a resorcinol-formaldehyde resin. After elution the flavins are, if necessary, absorbed on and eluted from a second column of talc. Finally, they are examined by thin-layer chromatography with detection by fluorescence. When an extract from one corn coleoptile (0.06 gm) and containing approximately 6 ng of flavin was treated in this way, it was found that the riboflavin could be detected easily even when one-tenth of the total sample was placed on a thin-layer plate. When riboflavin was added to centrifuged homogenates of plant tissues and passed through the two-column separation steps, excellent recoveries of the added riboflavin were obtained as estimated spectrophotometrically. The method could be applicable to a wide variety of biological materials other than plants. A wide range of plant materials was examined for the occurrence of free flavins. Riboflavin was present in all materials examined, but in varying amounts. It was the only yellow, fluorescent material detected in many species including corn, wheat, beets, carrots, Irish potato, and baker's yeast. Extracts of oats, on the other hand, contained a second free flavin, which is negatively charged at pH 4.1, and is apparently that previously described by Zenk (2). This flavin was investigated by photolysis, hydrolysis, and reaction with periodic acid, dithionite, and silver acetate. The results confirm that it is a derivative or riboflavin yielding riboflavin upon hydrolysis. Etiolated shoots of Job's tears contain two neutral yellow, fluorescent compounds of unknown structure, in addition to the riboflavin. Both are probably derivatives of riboflavin, but four yellow, fluorescent compounds found in sweet potatoes are probably not flavins.
Strategies to prolong long-term renal allograft function

T his review is based on four considerations: (1) information applicable to the current practice in transplantation is emphasized, (2) insights in chronic progressive native kidney disease may apply to chronic allograft nephropathy, (3) chronic allograft dysfunction is the result of alloimmunemediated and alloimmune-independent mechanisms of injury, and (4) “chronic allograft nephropathy” or “chronic allograft dysfunction” is preferable to “chronic rejection” to refer to the chronic progressive loss of allograft function.
Damage Approach for the Prediction of Debonding Failure on Concrete Elements Strengthened with FRP

In this study, experimental and numerical procedures are proposed to predict the debonding failure of concrete elements strengthened with fiber-reinforced polymers (FRPs). Such debonding is modeled as a damage process, which takes place in a band along the bond line (crack band). Three-point bending tests were designed to obtain the softening curve of the crack band. The numerical simulations are conducted using a plastic-damage model. In this approach, the damage resulting in debonding is defined using the softening curve of the crack band. Numerical results are validated against experimental results obtained from single-lap shear tests. The numerical models were capable of predicting the experimentally observed load versus strain behavior, failure load, and failure mechanism of the single-lap shear specimens. The predictive capabilities of the numerical approach presented here were further investigated by means of a parametric study of the single-lap shear test. Results from this study indicate the appl...
Short-term soil respiration and nitrogen immobilization response to nitrogen applications in control and nitrogen-enriched temperate forests

Forest stands at the Harvard Forest, Petersham, MA, receiving experimentally elevated N inputs have shown greatly increased N leaching loss yet still retain over 70% of the added N in soils, presumably in organic form. Whether microbial or abiotic mechanisms are responsible for the high N retention is not well understood. We monitored soil respiration and extractable NH4N and NO3-N following monthly applications of NH4NO3 to a hardwood forest and a pine plantation during the fifth year of chronic fertilizer applications (15 g N as NH4NO3 m � 2 per year). We hypothesized that individual N applications would increase short-term soil respiration (within 1 month) in previously unamended and N-limited soil, but that little or no increase would occur following N applications to chronically N-amended soils, assumed to be carbon-limited to some degree after 5 years of N additions. Short-term soil respiration did not increase after N additions in either the chronically amended or previously untreated soils except for one instance in the latter. However, extractable N levels in both previously unamended plots returned to preapplication levels within 2 weeks of the N addition. This rapid disappearance of the applied N suggests microbial immobilization, but in all but one instance there was no accompanying CO2 efflux increase indicating increased microbial biomass growth. A model of N immobilization through microbial biomass production, driven by the observed apparent net N immobilization, predicted soil CO2 efflux 4‐17 times greater than measured rates. Microbial biomass production does not appear to be the mechanism by which the fertilizer N immobilization occurred, according to our assumptions about microbial C:N ratios and carbon use efficiency. Hardwood stand average soil respiration rates over the study period were significantly higher in the previously unamended plot than in the control, and the control and chronically N-treated plot respiration rates were similar. Soil respiration rates for all pine stand treatments were similar. These results are insufficient to support our hypotheses concerning carbon versus nitrogen limitation in these soils. Our results, along with evidence from other studies, suggest that abiotic mechanisms play a role in the high retention of long-term N additions in these soils. # 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
LINE-1 and Alu retrotransposition exhibit clonal variation

Background The non-long terminal repeat (non-LTR) retrotransposons, long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1) and Alu are currently active retroelements in humans. We, and others, have observed that different populations of HeLa cells from different laboratories support retrotransposition of LINE-1 and Alu to varying degrees. We therefore tested whether individual cell clones of HeLa and HCT116 cell lines supported different levels of LINE-1 and Alu retrotransposition, and whether these variations were stable upon re-cloning.