cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Why do People Care about Sea Lions? A Fishing Game to Study the Value of Endangered Species

Previous research proposes that human beings are motivated to protect endangered species for various reasons: consumptive use value, non-consumptive use value, non-use value, and intrinsic value. However, it has been difficult to tease apart these values at the behavioral level. Using an innovative fishing game, we study an important tradeoff between one kind of use value (monetary value) and one kind of non-use value (existence value) of the endangered Steller sea lion. In the fishing game, players make repeated decisions on how much pollock to harvest for profit in each period in a dynamic ecosystem. The population of the endangered sea lion depends on the population of pollock, which in turn depends on the harvesting behavior of humans. The data show that in general, people responded to the financial value (as a tourist resource), but not the existence value, of the sea lion by cutting down commercial fish harvesting to keep more sea lions in the ecosystem. However, not all people behaved the same regarding the existence value. Females displayed a higher existence value than males, as did people who reported stronger pro-environmental attitudes than those with weaker pro-environmental attitudes. Our findings have multiple implications on public opinion elicitation and public policy design.
Red Blood and Black Ink: Journalism in the Old West

For the first time, the long, exciting, often surprising story of journalism in the Old West--from the freewheeling days of the early 1800s when all the news was an expression of the editor's opinion, to the more balanced reporting of the classic small-town weeklies and busy city newsrooms of the 1920s. Here are the printers who founded the first papers, arriving in town with a shirttail of type and a secondhand press, setting up shop under trees, in tents, in barns or storefronts, moving on when the town failed, or into larger quarters if it flourished. Using many excerpts from the early papers themselves, Dary shows us the amazing ways the early editors stretched the language, often inventing new words to describe unusual events or to lambaste their targets--and how they sometimes had to defend their right of free speech with fists or guns. We see women working in partnership with their husbands or out on their own, and tramp printers who moved from place to place as need for their services rose and fell.Here, too, are Mark Twain, Bret Harte, Horace Greeley--and William Allen White writing on the death of his young daughter. Here is the Telegraph and Texas Register article that launched the legend of the Alamo, and dozens of tongue-in-cheek, brilliant, or moving reports of national events and local doings, including holdups, train robberies, wars, elections, shouting matches, hyperbolic vegetable-growing contests, weddings, funerals, births, and much, much more.In Red Blood & Black Ink David Dary makes a strong case for the importance of the press in settling the West and helping to knit the nation together, making us into the country we are today. A fascinating look at aneglected part of our history.
Novel BaCe0.7In0.2Yb0.1O3−δ proton conductor as electrolyte for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells

Abstract Novel proton conductor BaCe 0.7 In 0.2 Yb 0.1 O 3− δ (BCIYb) has been successfully synthesized by a modified Pechini method and characterized as electrolyte for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells. Acceptable tolerance to wet CO 2 environment was found during chemical stability tests. No interaction between the BCIYb electrolyte and La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.2 Fe 0.8 O 3− δ (LSCF) cathode was observed during the cathode fabrication process. Further, no detectable impurity phase was found when the BCIYb–LSCF mixed powders were calcined at 700 °C for 50 h. BCIYb dense samples sintered at 1450 °C for 5 h showed acceptable conductivities of 7.2 × 10 −3 , 8 × 10 −3 , 4.5 × 10 −3 and 3.1 × 10 −3 S cm −1 at 800 °C in dry air, wet air, wet H 2 and wet N 2 , respectively. The maximum cell power outputs of single cells with the configuration of Ni–BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.2 O 3− δ (BZCY)|BCIYb|BZCY–LSCF were 0.15, 0.218 and 0.28 W cm −2 at 600, 650 and 700 °C, respectively. No cell degradation was observed for cells operated at a constant voltage of 0.7 V in the 25 h short-term durability test.
Brane configurations of BPS domain walls for the Script N = 1* SU(N) gauge theory

We study supersymmetric domain walls in = 1 SU(N) gauge theory with 3 massive adjoint representation chiral multiplets. This theory, known as = 1*, can be obtained as a massive deformation of = 4 Yang-Mills theory. Following Polchinski and Strassler, we consider the string dual of this theory in terms of spherical 5-branes and construct BPS domain walls interpolating between the many vacua. We compare our results to field theoretic domain walls and also find that this work is related to the physics of expanded ``dielectric'' branes near zero radius.
Ion-Mediated Nucleic Acid Helix-Helix Interactions

Salt ions are essential for the folding of nucleic acids. We use the tightly bound ion (TBI) model, which can account for the correlations and fluctuations for the ions bound to the nucleic acids, to investigate the electrostatic free-energy landscape for two parallel nucleic acid helices in the solution of added salt. The theory is based on realistic atomic structures of the helices. In monovalent salt, the helices are predicted to repel each other. For divalent salt, while the mean-field Poisson-Boltzmann theory predicts only the repulsion, the TBI theory predicts an effective attraction between the helices. The helices are predicted to be stabilized at an interhelix distance approximately 26-36 A, and the strength of the attractive force can reach -0.37 k(B)T/bp for helix length in the range of 9-12 bp. Both the stable helix-helix distance and the strength of the attraction are strongly dependent on the salt concentration and ion size. With the increase of the salt concentration, the helix-helix attraction becomes stronger and the most stable helix-helix separation distance becomes smaller. For divalent ions, at very high ion concentration, further addition of ions leads to the weakening of the attraction. Smaller ion size causes stronger helix-helix attraction and stabilizes the helices at a shorter distance. In addition, the TBI model shows that a decrease in the solvent dielectric constant would enhance the ion-mediated attraction. The theoretical findings from the TBI theory agree with the experimental measurements on the osmotic pressure of DNA array as well as the results from the computer simulations.
A catalytically inactive form of isocitrate dehydrogenase fromEscherichia coli

A protein exhibiting immunological cross-reactivity with NADP-specific isocitrate dehydrogenase, but containing no catalytic activity, has been isolated from nalidixic acid-resistantEscherichia coli. The two proteins have, within the limits of experimentation, identical molecular weight, subunit structure, and amino acid homology. The absence of catalytic activity in the protein isolated from nalidixic acid-resistant mutants may result from a mutation in the isocitrate dehydrogenase structural gene.
Urbanization: Its Detection and Effect in the United States Climate Record

Abstract Several equations were developed that related the effect of urban growth, measured by increasing population, to the mean seasonal and annual temperature: the diurnal maximum, minimum, average, and range. These equations were derived from a network of 1219 stations across the United States, which were analyzed for the years 1901–84. The results indicate that urban effects on temperature are detectable even for small towns with populations under 10 000. Stations with populations near 10 000 are shown to average 0.1°C warmer for the mean annual temperature than nearby stations located in rural areas with populations less than 2000. Urbanization decreases the daily maxima in all seasons except winter and the temperature range in all seasons. It increases the diurnal minima and the daily means in all seasons. The equations indicate that, for the annual mean temperature, urbanization during the twentieth century accounts for a warm bias of about 0.06°C in the U.S. Historical Climatology Network (HCN). ...
Decomposition of water hyacinth detritus in eutrophic lake water

A study was conducted to determine the seasonal production of detritus by water hyacinths [Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Sohns] cultured in eutrophic Lake Apopka water, and the decomposition of detritus in situ and under laboratory conditions. Annual averages for C, N and P deposited through detritus production at the sediment-water interface were 2870, 176 and 19 kg ha-1 yr-1, respectively. Decomposition rates were faster in the root zone of hyacinth mats than at the sediment-water interface. Approximately 92% of the detritus C deposited at the sediment-water interface was decomposed in one year, while only 11% of the detrital organic N was mineralized. Detrital tissue gained P during decomposition, suggesting P limitation for the system. Dry-weight loss of detrital tissue was significantly correlated with the mass of C lost (r 2 = 0.947**), C/N ratio (r 2 = 0.644**) and C/P ratio (r 2 = 0.428**).
Equilibrium Analysis of High Affinity Interactions Using BIACORE

Abstract BIACORE biosensors are useful for measuring reaction kinetics and calculating affinity constants for macromolecular interactions. However, one drawback with the flow system used in these instruments is that the standard injection procedures limit the amount of time available to collect association-phase data. This is especially problematic during equilibrium analysis of high affinity interactions. Using protein–DNA interactions as a model system, we demonstrate a simple method for overcoming this limitation. By placing the analyte directly into the running buffer we were able to deliver a continuous supply of protein to the sensor surfaces for greater than 12 h at a time. Complete equilibrium binding profiles were generated by changing the concentration of analyte and allowing the surface reactions to reequilibrate. Analyte concentrations were also decreased to demonstrate that the binding reactions were fully reversible. This method of analysis is a simple and convenient way of directly measuring equilibrium dissociation constants for very high affinity interactions.
Heparin in experimental hyperdynamic sepsis

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the hypothesis that heparin administration increases cardiac output and improves oxygenation in experimental hyperdynamic sepsis in sheep. DESIGN Prospective trial. SETTING Laboratory at a large university-affiliated medical center. SUBJECTS A total of 14 sheep weighing 28 to 44 kg. INTERVENTIONS All 14 chronically instrumented sheep received a continuous infusion of Escherichia coli endotoxin (10 ng/kg/min) over 24 hrs. Seven sheep received a fixed bolus of beef lung heparin (5000 units) every 4 hrs intravenously. The other seven sheep served as controls. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS The heparinized animals showed a triphasic cardiovascular response. Cardiac index increased (p < .05), and systemic vascular resistance index decreased (p < .05) at 2 hrs after the start of the endotoxin infusion (early phase, 0 to 2 hrs). Both variables returned to approximately baseline levels at 4 hrs (second period, 2 to 4 hrs). A hyperdynamic state (in terms of an increased cardiac index), a decreased systemic vascular resistance index, and a decreased mean arterial pressure (MAP) (p < .05 for all) was observed in the third phase (8 to 24 hrs). In the control group, cardiac index, systemic vascular resistance index, and MAP showed no changes in the first period, but a slight decrease in cardiac index and a slight increase in systemic vascular resistance index in the second period. The onset of the hyperdynamic state was less pronounced in the control group and cardiac index was lower (p < .05); likewise, systemic vascular resistance index was increased (p < .05) when compared with heparinized animals. Both groups developed pulmonary hypertension during the endotoxin infusion. The gas exchange in the heparin group was significantly impaired in the first and second periods, but returned to baseline levels in the hyperdynamic phase, whereas the oxygenation of the nonheparinized animals showed only minor changes in the first and second phases, but deteriorated significantly during the third phase of endotoxemia. CONCLUSIONS In this experimental model of hyperdynamic sepsis, heparin significantly influenced the cardiopulmonary performance. Heparin preserved gas exchange and increased cardiac output but lowered systemic vascular resistance and MAP in the hyperdynamic state.
Assessing satellite-based start-of-season trends in the US High Plains

To adequately assess the effects of global warming it is necessary to address trends and impacts at the local level. This study examines phenological changes in the start-of-season (SOS) derived from satellite observations from 1982–2008 in the US High Plains region. The surface climatebased SOS was also evaluated. The averaged profiles of SOS from 37° to 49°N latitude by satellite- and climate-based methods were in reasonable agreement, especially for areas where croplands were masked out and an additional frost date threshold was adopted. The statistically significant trends of satellite-based SOS show a later spring arrival ranging from 0.1 to 4.9 days decade �1 over nine Level III ecoregions. We found the croplands generally exhibited larger trends (later arrival) than the non-croplands. The area-averaged satellite-based SOS for noncroplands (i.e. mostly grasslands) showed no significant trends. We examined the trends of temperatures, precipitation, and standardized precipitation index (SPI), as well as the strength of correlation between the satellite-based SOS and these climatic drivers. Our results indicate that satellite-based SOS trends are spatially and primarily related to annual maximum normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI, mostly in summertime) and/or annual minimum NDVI (mostly in wintertime) and these trends showed the best correlation with six-month SPI over the period 1982–2008 in the US High Plains region.
Beyond the greenhouse

Botanic gardens are using good garden design to attract and educate the public. Mike Maunder explains how they can thrive both as businesses and as institutions of learning.
Application of electron-stimulated desorption method for studies of coadsorption process on a platinum foil surface

Using a common purity Pt foil, the character of adspecies adsorbed from the residual gases in a stainless-steel UHV system was studied by the electron-stimulated desorption (ESD) method. Hydrogen adatoms and dissociatively adsorbed water vapor were found as a deposit from the gas phase. The alkali metal ions,Na/sup +/ and K/sup +/, were readily observed by secondary ion mass spectrometry even after sputter cleaning the sample. It is suggested that alkali metal impurities could be the active sites on the Pt surface for dissociative adsorption of water. The fluorine observed on the Pt surface was thought to be a result of surface segregation of fluorine bulk impurities, with the standard enthalpy of segregation being 1600 cal/mole. A correlation between ESD of fluorine and an increase in ESD active surface hydrogen was observed. It is concluded that surface sites released by fluorine desorption are particularly active for hydrogen adsorption. Also, ESD parameters, such as total cross section, ion energy distributions, and the ion yield dependence on electron beam energy, were measured for various adspecies observed on the Pt foil. 12 figures.
Utilization of bacteriophage T7 late promoters in recombinant plasmids during infection.

Abstract When bacteriophage T7 infects a cell that carries a recombinant plasmid having a promoter for T7 RNA polymerase, the cloned promoter is utilized in the plasmid. A simple hybridization test has been used to screen recombinant plasmids for T7 promoter activity in vivo and to analyze the kinetics of utilization of the promoters in the plasmids. At least 13 different T7 promoters have been found to be active in plasmids, and all can be correlated with promoters identified by other means. During infection, promoters in T7 DNA appear to be activated sequentially from left to right over a period of several minutes; however, regardless of their original position in the T7 DNA molecule, T7 promoters in plasmids are all activated at the same time as the first promoters in T7 DNA. A likely explanation for this difference is that T7 DNA enters the cell in stages, and that not all promoters are accessible at the time T7 RNA polymerase is first made; promoters in plasmids, on the other hand, would be immediately accessible. Phased entry of the T7 DNA molecule could also explain why class II promoters are utilized before the stronger class III promoters during T7 infection. Utilization of a promoter in a plasmid seems to shut off with the same kinetics as the equivalent promoter in T7 DNA, and a mutation in T7 lysozyme that causes prolonged utilization of class II promoters in T7 DNA has a similar effect on class II promoters in plasmids. Transcription of promoter-containing plasmid DNAs by purified T7 RNA polymerase terminates at specific sites in pBR322 DNA, but the efficiency of termination is not high, and RNAs that result from transcription several times around the plasmid DNA are made in both directions. The ability to utilize T7 promoters in plasmids suggests that this system could be developed for high efficiency of expression of cloned genes in bacteria.
Gas phase hydrogen deuterium exchange reactions of a model peptide: FT-ICR and computational analyses of metal induced conformational mutations

We utilized gas phase hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange reactions and ab initio calculations to investigate the complexation between a model peptide (Arg-Gly-Asp≡RGD) with various alkali metal ions. The peptide conformation is drastically altered upon alkali metal ion complexation. The associated conformational changes depend on both the number and type of complexing alkali metal ions. Sodium has a smaller ionic diameter and prefers a multidentate interaction that involves all three amino acids of the peptide. Conversely, potassium and cesium form different types of complexes with the RGD. The [RGD + 2Cs − H]+ species exhibit the slowest H/D exchange reactivity (reaction rate constant of ∼6 × 10−13 cm3molecule−1s−1 for the fastest exchanging labile hydrogen with ND3). The reaction rate constant of the protonated RGD is two orders of magnitude faster than that of the [RGD + 2Cs − H]+. Addition of the first cesium to the RGD reduces the H/D exchange reaction rate constant (i.e., D0) by a factor of seven whereas sodium reduces this value by a factor of thirty. Conversely, addition of the second alkali metal ions has the opposite effect; the rate of D0 disappearance for all [RGD + 2Met − H]+ species (Met≡Na, K, and Cs) decreases with the alkali metal ion size.
COMMON MAGNETIC ORIGIN OF THE RESONANCE PEAK AND INCOMMENSURATION IN HIGH-Tc SUPERCONDUCTORS

We present a unified theory for the resonance peak and low-energy incommensurate response observed in high-Tc cuprate superconductors. The origin of both features is purely magnetic and they represent universal features signaling the existence of an incommensurate spin state both below and above the superconducting transition temperature. We argue that the resonance peak is the reflection of commensurate antiferromagnetism. Our theoretical scenario gives an account of the main universal features observed in various families of superconductors and predicts those that have not been observed yet experimentally.
The function of the primary ligaments of the knee in anterior-posterior and medial-lateral motions

Abstract The functions of the primary ligaments of the human knee have been investigated during anterior, posterior, medial and lateral tibial displacements. The ligaments of in vitro knee specimens have been loaded to large load levels and all three resultant orthogonal components of force and of moment acting on the femur as a result of the applied tibial displacements have been measured. Least squares cubic spline curves fit to the data have been analyzed to determine what percentage of a given applied load is transmitted by each ligament. These curves can also provide data for a computer model of the human leg.
A Nonlinear Stability Analysis of Vegetative Turing Pattern Formation for an Interaction-Diffusion Plant-Surface Water Model System in an Arid Flat Environment

The development of spontaneous stationary vegetative patterns in an arid flat environment is investigated by means of a weakly nonlinear diffusive instability analysis applied to the appropriate model system for this phenomenon. In particular, that process can be modeled by a partial differential interaction–diffusion equation system for the plant biomass density and the surface water content defined on an unbounded flat spatial domain. The main results of this analysis can be represented by closed-form plots in the rate of precipitation versus the specific rate of plant density loss parameter space. From these plots, regions corresponding to bare ground and vegetative patterns consisting of parallel stripes, labyrinth-like mazes, hexagonal arrays of gaps, irregular mosaics, and homogeneous distributions of vegetation, respectively, may be identified in this parameter space. Then those theoretical predictions are compared with both relevant observational evidence involving tiger and pearled bush patterns and existing numerical simulations of similar model systems as well as placed in the context of the results from some recent nonlinear vegetative pattern formation studies.
SENSING HOMOLOGY AT THE STRAND-SWAPPING STEP IN LAMBDA EXCISIVE RECOMBINATION

Abstract λ Site-specific recombination requires a short stretch of sequence homology that might be sensed during strand swapping, during ligation and/or during isomerization of the obligate Holliday junction intermediate. Here, we use half- att site suicide substrates to study single and double top-strand-transfers, isolated from the subsequent steps of the reaction. The double-strand-transfer is analogous to a top-strand exchange and consists of one normal top-strand and one “contrary” bottom-strand to top-strand ligation between the half- att site substrate and its full-site partner. The resulting covalent three-way DNA junctions are poor substrates for resolution in the forward or reverse direction. We show that both the rate and the efficiency of Y-junction formation are homology dependent. Pairing of three nucleotides (either in the forward or in the contrary alignment) provides maximal stability to strand swapping. Complementary base-pairing next to one top-strand site (with or without ligation) stimulates strand-transfer at the other mismatched site. The data suggest that homology can be sensed at the strand-swapping step before ligation. However, homology also stimulates ligation and stabilizes the products, as is evident from the different rates of closed Y-junction formation in the presence or absence of homology. Furthermore, under recombination conditions, single top-strand-transfers are subject to reversal even in the presence of sequence homology; stability depends on a double-strand-transfer, i.e. dissociation of covalent Int.
The effects of brain natriuretic peptide on scar formation in incisional rat wounds.

Background: Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a peptide that reduces scar formation in the heart by blocking transforming growth factor-b (TGF-b). Although TGF-b is known to play a role in scar formation in the myocardium, little is known about the effects of BNP on cutaneous wound healing. Objectives: The objective was to determine if the administration of BNP in healing cutaneous wounds reduces the amount of scarring. Methods: This was a laboratory investigation using 40 wild-strain rats. Three full-thickness 1-cm incisional wounds were created on each animal and randomized to intradermal BNP, saline, or no treatment. Wounds were excised at 3, 7, 14, 31, and 60 days and examined histologically for scar surface area and collagen architecture. Those wounds excised at 30 days were subjected to a measure of tensile strength and those excised at 60 days were evaluated prior to excision for cosmesis using a scar evaluation scale. The proportion of wounds healing without visually apparent scar was the main outcome. Groups were compared with Fisher’s exact and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: Wounds treated with BNP were more likely to heal without an apparent scar when compared to those treated with saline or control (37.5% vs. 0%, p = 0.03). There were no between-group differences in the surface area of the scars or the collagen architecture. Incisional tensile strength was also similar across treatments. Conclusions: Treatment of rat incisions with BNP reduced the number of visually apparent scars but did not affect the histologic appearance of the scars or the incisional tensile strength. ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2008; 15:945–948 a 2008 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
The structure of chitin and chitosan

The short range atomic arrangements in crystalline chitin, crystalline chitosan and amorphous chitosan films are shown to be similar in that the fundamental rings and chains are retained in all of these structures. The interchain bonding differs, however, and is weakest in amorphous chitosan and strongest in crystalline chitin.
Exacerbation of coronary artery disease by occupational carbon monoxide exposure: A report of two fatalities and a review of the literature

The recent deaths of two workers with coronary artery disease (CAD) following exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) at work reinforced our appreciation of the hazard of this exposure to individuals with preexisting heart disease. Carbon monoxide acts to precipitate ischemia by reducing oxygen delivery to the myocardium. Animal and in vitro experiments suggest that CO may accelerate the development of atherosclerosis, particularly if exposure is in association with other risk factors. Thus, persons with known CAD who are exposed to CO at work are at risk for both the acceleration of the course of the underlying disease and for precipitation of acute ischemia or infarction following excessive exposure. Particular attention should be given to control of CO exposures in light of this hazard. For various reasons, preplacement evaluations or other job selection procedures do not adequately address his hazard. In view of the high prevalence of CAD in the U.S. and the high frequency of workplace exposure to CO, particular attention should be given to control of CO exposure through industrial hygiene measures.
The Insulin-Like Growth Factor-Binding Proteins of Porcine Serum: Endocrine and Nutritional Regulation*

Abstract Several studies have shown that insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins (IGF-BPs) modify IGF activity. To investigate their role in regulating growth, the number and size of IGF-BPs in porcine serum and the role of nutritional and endocrine factors in controlling their relative abundance were determined. IGF-BPs were analyzed by ligand blotting; sera were subjected to sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, then the separated proteins were transferred to nitrocellulose filters and probed with [125I]IGF-I or -II. The band intensities of various forms of IGF-BPs were quantified by scanning densitometry. Fetal and postnatal sera contained six IGF-BPs of 220,000, 43,000, 39,000, 34,000, 29,000, and 24,000 mol wt (Mr). The band intensity of all forms of IGF-BPs increased with advancing gestational age. Specifically, the intensities of the 43,000, 39,000, 34,000, 29,000, and 24,000 Mr IGFBP bands were 2.8-, 2.7-, 4.3-, 4.4-, and 3.1-fold higher, respectively, in fetal plasma at 1...
Magnet regulators for ORIC

Twenty-one current regulator systems were built, tested, and put in operation in the Oak Ridge Isochronous Cyclotron. Two motor-generator units rated at 800 and 1200 kW are regulated by transistor banks in the field circuits of the generators. Nineteen other magnet supplies are rectifier-magnetic amplifier systems with ratings ranging from 6 to 30 kW at 250 to 1200 A; for regulation these incorporate transistor banks in series with the load. All units are current regulated to a few parts in 10 5 ; the transistor banks also reduce the ripple voltage of the rectifier units. By means of single controls all units can be varied from 2 to 100% of rated output current. Design features and selection of components for these systems are discussed. Design of the large banks of paralleled transistors used and experience in their operation are also reported.
Correspondence Problem in Image Sequence Analysis

Abstract An algorithm to address the correspondence problem in image sequence analysis is proposed. The underlying philosophy of this algorithm is reductionist, and is based on the assertion that measurements pertaining to motion that are obtained from the whole image sequence must be very similar to the measurements that are obtained from corresponding portions of the image sequence. The algorithm has been extensively tested on synthesized data as well as on real image sequences. It appears that the assumption underlying the proposed algorithm is quite useful and applicable to a large class of images. The proposed algorithm has a high degree of inherent parallelism, and is thus suited for implementation on parallel machines.
Modeling and Visualizing Cell Type Switching

Understanding cellular differentiation is critical in explaining development and for taming diseases such as cancer. Differentiation is conventionally represented using bifurcating lineage trees. However, these lineage trees cannot readily capture or quantify all the types of transitions now known to occur between cell types, including transdifferentiation or differentiation off standard paths. This work introduces a new analysis and visualization technique that is capable of representing all possible transitions between cell states compactly, quantitatively, and intuitively. This method considers the regulatory network of transcription factors that control cell type determination and then performs an analysis of network dynamics to identify stable expression profiles and the potential cell types that they represent. A visualization tool called CellDiff3D creates an intuitive three-dimensional graph that shows the overall direction and probability of transitions between all pairs of cell types within a lineage. In this study, the influence of gene expression noise and mutational changes during myeloid cell differentiation are presented as a demonstration of the CellDiff3D technique, a new approach to quantify and envision all possible cell state transitions in any lineage network.
Modulation of the ε-(γ-glutamic)lysine cross-link in cellular proteins I. In vivo and in vitro studies

The e-(γ-glutamic)lysine cross-link content of intracellular proteins in a variety of cell types can be modulated in vivo by temperature changes and in vitro by treatment with Mg2+-ATP and Mg2+-ATP plus Ca2+. Virtually all the cross-links are found in the cytoskeletal and membrane components which are not solubilized by glycerol extraction. In the slime mold, Physarum polycephalum, enzyme activities persist which bring about a decrease in cross-link content upon addition of Mg2+-ATP and an increase in cross-link content upon addition of Mg2+-ATP plus Ca2+. In cultured embryonic chick skeletal myofibrils, we have observed a decrease in cross-link content upon addition of Mg2+-ATP. In cultured embryonic chick heart myofibrils, we have observed an increase in cross-link content upon addition of Mg2+-ATP followed by Ca2+. A hypothesis is discussed in which the modulation of Glu—Lys cross-links is explained in terms of a cycle of reactions which involves (1) the formation of an acyl phosphate of a glutamic acid side chain; (2) the formation of a Glu-Lys cross-link, and (3) the hydrolytic or phosphorylitic breakdown of the crosslinks. In such a hypothesis, the role of Mg2+-ATP is that of introducing energy which can be used for the cycling of cross-links and possibly for some cellular energy transductions.
Self-Assembly and Self-Metallization of Porphyrin Nanosheets

Square porphyrin nanosheets with uniform thickness (7−12 nm) and aspect ratios up to 100 have been synthesized for the first time using a reprecipitation method. They retain the photocatalytic activity of the precursor molecules and can be self-metallized with Pt, Pd, and Au. Their unique morphology, photocatalytic properties, and large surface areas suggest potential applications in photo- and electrocatalysis, sensing, as components for optoelectronic nanodevices, and solar energy capture and conversion.
Block of Brain Sodium Channels by Peptide Mimetics of the Isoleucine, Phenylalanine, and Methionine (IFM) Motif from the Inactivation Gate

Inactivation of sodium channels is thought to be mediated by an inactivation gate formed by the intracellular loop connecting domains III and IV. A hydrophobic motif containing the amino acid sequence isoleucine, phenylalanine, and methionine (IFM) is required for the inactivation process. Peptides containing the IFM motif, when applied to the cytoplasmic side of these channels, produce two types of block: fast block, which resembles the inactivation process, and slow, use-dependent block stimulated by strong depolarizing pulses. Fast block by the peptide ac-KIFMK-NH2, measured on sodium channels whose inactivation was slowed by the α-scorpion toxin from Leiurus quinquestriatus (LqTx), was reversed with a time constant of 0.9 ms upon repolarization. In contrast, control and LqTx-modified sodium channels were slower to recover from use-dependent block. For fast block, linear peptides of three to six amino acid residues containing the IFM motif and two positive charges were more effective than peptides with one positive charge, whereas uncharged IFM peptides were ineffective. Substitution of the IFM residues in the peptide ac-KIFMK-NH2 with smaller, less hydrophobic residues prevented fast block. The positively charged tripeptide IFM-NH2 did not cause appreciable fast block, but the divalent cation IFM-NH(CH2)2NH2 was as effective as the pentapeptide ac-KIFMK-NH2. The constrained peptide cyclic KIFMK containing two positive charges did not cause fast block. These results indicate that the position of the positive charges is unimportant, but flexibility or conformation of the IFM-containing peptide is important to allow fast block. Slow, use-dependent block was observed with IFM-containing peptides of three to six residues having one or two positive charges, but not with dipeptides or phenylalanine-amide. In contrast to its lack of fast block, cyclic KIFMK was an effective use-dependent blocker. Substitutions of amino acid residues in the tripeptide IFM-NH2 showed that large hydrophobic residues are preferred in all three positions for slow, use-dependent block. However, substitution of the large hydrophobic residue diphenylalanine or the constrained residues phenylglycine or tetrahydroisoquinoline for phe decreased potency, suggesting that this phe residue must be able to enter a restricted hydrophobic pocket during the binding of IFM peptides. Together, the results on fast block and slow, use-dependent block indicate that IFM peptides form two distinct complexes of different stability and structural specificity with receptor site(s) on the sodium channel. It is proposed that fast block represents binding of these peptides to the inactivation gate receptor, while slow, use-dependent block represents deeper binding of the IFM peptides in the pore.
Uncooled infrared imaging using thin film ferroelectrics

Uncooled infrared imaging is growing into a large business for several companies. With hybrid barium strontium titanate (BST) ferroelectric detectors leading the way in lowering cost, the markets are exploding. Rapid advances in VOx bolometers in the last few years have improved NETDs below those achieved to date with BST, and VOx system prices have approached those for BST systems. When these factors are coupled with the inherently superior MTF of monolithic sensors, one would expect the market for BST sensors to be waning. However, such is not the case for two reasons. First, the markets for uncooled IR imaging sensors are critically cost sensitive, and small price differences create large sales differences. Second, the laboratory performance advantage of VOx is often not realized in the fielded systems, because of the `fixed pattern' noise characteristic of DC-coupled systems. Thus, MRTs for BST systems are often better than those of VOx systems having better NETDs. Another technology looms on the horizon, poised to offer a new option for applications with stringent stability requirements coupled with high performance. Recently written off by many because of lack of progress, TFFE technology is now beginning to show why it is such a good idea.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Evaluation of maize varieties for their potential as breeding populations

A 7-variety diallel of synthetic varieties that have not had selection for yield improvement and a 10-variety diallel of synthetic varieties that either resulted from recurrent selection for yield improvement or from the introgression of exotic germ plasm into adapted varieties were evaluated in six environments for yield and five other agronomic traits. The specific objective was to determine the relative potential of the synthetic varieties as germ plasm sources for breeding programs. Recurrent selection improved population yield in ‘BSSS CO’, ‘BSK CO’, and ‘Alph CO’ in the varieties and also in crosses with other varieties. ‘BSSS(R)C6’ and ‘BSSS(HT)C7’ yielded 11.4% and 16.1% more than ‘BSSS CO’, and the variety crosses of ‘BSSS(R)C6’ and ‘BSSS(HT)C7’ yielded 21.6% and 22.0% more than the variety crosses of ‘BSSS CO’. Recurrent selection also improved stalk-lodging resistance for ‘BSSS(R)C6’ and ‘BSSS(HT)C7’, but root lodging for ‘BSSS(HT)C7’ was significantly higher. ‘BS15’ had 61.0% higher yields than ‘Alph CO’, with 9.3% less stalk lodging. Average heterosis of the 10-variety diallel was 1120 kg/ha (19.6%) and ranged from 800 kg/ha (13.7%) for ‘BSK(S)C5’ to 1770 kg/ha (39.4%) for ‘BS12(HI)C5’. The heterosis expressed among individual variety crosses ranged from 4.3% for ‘BSK(S)C5’ x ‘BSTE(FR)C1’ to 37.6% for ‘BSSS(R)C6’ x ‘BS12(HI)C5’, which approached the yield of the two highest yielding single-cross checks. In the 7-variety diallel of unselected varieties, ‘BSTE CO’ and ‘Late Rootworm Synthetic’ were superior as varieties and in crosses for yield and stalk quality. Average heterosis for the 7-variety diallel was 950 kg/ha (18.5%). Stalk lodging was important in the performance of varieties with poor stalk quality. Although recurrent selection improved yield, development of superior breeding populations also will require selection for general agronomic performance. The performance of ‘BS16’ and the yields of ‘BSTL’ and ‘Teozea’ and their crosses suggest that exotic germ plasm should receive greater attention.
The Transient Temperature Distribution in a Slab Subject to Thermal Radiation

The transient, one-dimensional temperature distribution is determined for a slab, insulated on one face, and subjected to thermal radiation at the other face. The slab is initially at a uniform temperature and is assumed to be homogeneous, isotropic, and opaque; the physical properties are assumed to be independent of temperature. Transient temperature distributions for both heating and cooling situations are obtained by means of a thermal-electrical analog computer. A diode limiter circuit is used to simulate the nonlinear radiant heat flux. The transient temperature distributions are presented in a dimensionless, graphical form for a wide range of variables. Approximate analytical solutions are also given which complement and extend the solution charts over ranges of parameters not covered in the charts.
Characterization of the Electrical Structure of an Agricultural Field In Burleson County, TX Using a Mu1ti-layer 0cean Inversion

A transient controlled-source electromagnetic (TDEM) survey has been performed at the Texas A&M University Hydrogeological Test Site adjacent to the Brazos River in Burleson County, Texas. A 1-D regularized inversion of the data shows that a sandy, unconsolidated alluvial unit which constitutes the main aquifer for subsurface transport of groundwater is apparent as a resistive zone at depths between 5-20 m. The TDEM survey was conducted as part of a larger, interdisciplinary effort by agricultural engineers, environmental geochemists and geophysicists to characterize nonpoint-source contaminant transport at the test site. The electromagnetic data provides information about fluid and contaminant pathways and impermeable clay and/or shale zones.
A study on surface grinding of 300 mm silicon wafers

Abstract Most of today's IC chips are made from 200 mm or 150 mm silicon wafers. It is estimated that the transition from 200 mm to 300 mm wafers will bring a die cost saving of 30–40%. To meet their customers' needs, silicon wafer manufacturers are actively searching for cost-effective ways to manufacture 300 mm wafers with high quality. This paper presents the results of a study on surface grinding of 300 mm silicon wafers. In this study, a three-factor two-level full factorial design is employed to reveal the main effects as well as the interaction effects of three process parameters (wheel rotational speed, chuck rotational speed and feedrate). The process outputs studied include spindle motor current, surface roughness, grinding marks and depth of subsurface cracks.
Decreased water flowing from a forest amended with calcium silicate

Acid deposition during the 20th century caused widespread depletion of available soil calcium (Ca) throughout much of the industrialized world. To better understand how forest ecosystems respond to changes in a component of acidification stress, an 11.8-ha watershed was amended with wollastonite, a calcium silicate mineral, to restore available soil Ca to preindustrial levels through natural weathering. An unexpected outcome of the Ca amendment was a change in watershed hydrology; annual evapotranspiration increased by 25%, 18%, and 19%, respectively, for the 3 y following treatment before returning to pretreatment levels. During this period, the watershed retained Ca from the wollastonite, indicating a watershed-scale fertilization effect on transpiration. That response is unique in being a measured manipulation of watershed runoff attributable to fertilization, a response of similar magnitude to effects of deforestation. Our results suggest that past and future changes in available soil Ca concentrations have important and previously unrecognized implications for the water cycle.
A single dose of morphine sulfate increases the incidence of vomiting after outpatient inguinal surgery in children.

BACKGROUND In children, opioids are valuable both for their analgesic properties and for their salutary effect on emergence delirium. Although intraoperative administration of opioids is often cited as the cause of postoperative emesis, few data quantitating the magnitude of this effect exist. METHODS Patients undergoing inguinal surgery as outpatients were randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group received a single intravenous dose of morphine 0.1 mg/kg (morphine group), and the other (control) group had the identical anesthetic but instead received saline. Intravenous ketorolac was administered in response to verbal complaints of pain or a Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Score greater than 9 on two successive evaluations performed at 5-min intervals. The authors compared the incidence of postoperative emesis and emergence, behavior, and pain scores between the two groups. RESULTS Patients in the morphine group (n = 48) were 5.6 +/- 2.8 yr old and weighed 20.8 +/- 7.8 kg, and those in the control group (n = 49) were 4.5 +/- 2.9 yr old and weighed 18.9 +/- 9.2 kg. More patients in the morphine group were cooperative and deeply asleep both on arrival and through the first 30 min of their stay in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) (P < 0.05). Sixty-three percent of the children in the control group received ketorolac in the PACU compared with 20% of the morphine group (P < 0.01). The incidence of emesis for the 24 h after arrival in the PACU was 56% for those who received morphine compared with 25% in the control group (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS For children undergoing inguinal surgery, the administration of a single dose of intravenous morphine after the induction of anesthesia smooths emergence from anesthesia as assessed by improved cooperation and sedation in the PACU, decreases the need for postoperative analgesics, but increases the incidence of vomiting in the first 24 h after surgery.
Expression of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors in Human Breast Cancer: Mass Versus Ligand Binding Capacity

: Thirty percent of lymph node-negative women with primary breast cancers are at high risk for early recurrence of metastatic disease and diminished survival. Identification of these high-risk patients is a long-term objective of our laboatory, and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was investigated as a prognostic factor, EGFR was measured by a ligand binding assay developed in house, in the competition mode that served as the “gold standard” for assessing receptor content and activity. In contrast, measurements of mass (content) were performed by an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) from Ciba Corning Diagnostics (Alameda, CA) and by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) from Oncogene Science (Uniondale, NY). A total of 78 breast carcinomas were examined. The median binding capacity measured with [125I]EGF was 13 fmol/mg membrane protein (range 0–981), that measured by EIA was 8 fmol/mg (range 1–125), while EGFR measured by ELISA was 135 (range 0–751). Distribution of EGFR did not appear to vary as a function of patient age. Neither the results from EIA nor those from ELISA correlated with those obtained by the ligand binding assay. However, there was a good correlation of results obtained by the two antibody-based assays despite the fact that the calibration of standards was considerably different. These data suggest that EGFR should be measured by ligand binding assay for clinical studies; mass assays based on antibody reagents will require further development.
Dynamic nonlinear effect on lasing in random media

We investigate the dynamic effect of nonlinearity on lasing in disordered medium. The third-order nonlinearity not only changes frequency and size of lasing mode, but also modifies laser emission intensity and laser pulse width.