cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Submicrometer-resolution mapping of ultraweak 355-nm absorption in HfO2 monolayers using photothermal heterodyne imaging

Nanosecond-pulse UV-laser-damage initiation in multilayer coatings comprised from metal oxide as a high-index component, and silica oxide as a low-index material, is strongly linked to metal oxide. The nature of the absorbing species and their physical properties remain unknown because of extremely small sizes. Previous experimental evidence provided by high-resolution mapping of damage morphology points to a few-nanometer scale of these absorbers. This work demonstrates submicrometer mapping of 355-nm absorption in HfO 2 monolayers using a recently developed photothermal heterodyne imaging technique. Comparison of absorption maps with spatial distribution of UV pulsed-laser- induced damage morphology allows one to better estimate the size and densities of nanoscale absorbing defects in hafnia thin films. Possible defect-formation mechanisms are discussed.
Resolving Power in the Near Infrared of the Fabry–Perot Interferometer with Gold and with Silver Coatings

In order to determine the resolving power and the luminosity in the near infrared of the Fabry–Perot interferometer with plates coated with evaporated layers of gold and of silver, the reflectance, transmittance, and absorptance of thick layers of these metals, produced by evaporation onto quartz plates, have been measured over the range 0.6 to 2.4 μ. The absorptance of gold layers decreases a little with increasing wavelength, from a value of 0.053 at 1.0 μ to 0.043 at 2 μ; the absorptance of silver layers has a value of approximately 0.02 over the whole range 1.0 to 2.1 μ. Consequently, for a luminosity of 25%, the finesse of the fringes produced by the interferometer with gold coatings is 30 at a wavelength of 1 μ increasing to 35 at 2 μ, while with silver coatings it is approximately 80, over the range 1.0 to 2.0 μ. The Fabry–Perot interferometer with reflecting surfaces either of gold or of silver (preferably the latter) can be used to increase the resolving power of a spectrometer, in this region, without loss of luminosity; or alternately to increase the luminosity without decreasing the resolving power. A description is given of suitable optical systems for these applications of the Fabry–Perot interferometer, and estimates are given of the amount by which the resolving power or the luminosity of the spectrometer can be increased.
The Estuarine Component of the Us E.P.A.'S Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program

Abstract The US Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Research and Development has initiated the Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP) to monitor status and trends in the condition of the nation's near coastal waters, forests, wetlands, agro-ecosystems, surface waters, deserts and rangelands. the programme is also intended to evaluate the effectiveness of Agency policies at protecting ecological resources occurring in these systems. Monitoring data collected for all ecosystems will be integrated for regional and national status and trends assessments. the near coastal component of EMAP consists of estuaries, coastal waters, and the Great Lakes. Near coastal ecosystems have been regionalized and classified, and an integrated sampling strategy has been developed. EPA and NOAA have agreed to coordinate and, to the extent possible, integrate the near coastal component of EMAP with the NOAA National Status and Trends Program. A demonstration project was conducted in estuaries of the mid-...
Philip Henry Zollman, the Royal Society’s first assistant secretary for foreign correspondence

From its foundation in 1660 the Royal Society had taken seriously its function as a collector and disseminator of information in the Republic of Letters. The Society’s first Letter Book was ordered specifically to be drawn up to include all letters read before the Society and to note any replies that were received. Various ad hoc committees were set up in the early 1660s to deal with foreign correspondence. These developments represented the first step towards establishing an exchange of letters with continental savants as a routine and systematic part of the Society’s work. The second step was the appointment of Henry Oldenburg as secretary, a man of vision determined to promote the Society in the Republic. Oldenburg was a compulsive correspondent and an indefatigable founder-editor of the Philosophical Transactions. Unfortunately, his achievements were not sustained after his death. The Council’s efforts to maintain correspondence failed to match Oldenburg’s output and the Transactions had a chequered career until revived under Sir Hans Sloane’s stewardship. Despite these early intentions and initiatives, links between the members of the Society and their counterparts abroad remained largely personal.1
PREPARATION, CHARACTERIZATION, AND STRUCTURAL DETERMINATION OF CUBIC AND TRICLINIC TRIS (TETRA-N-BUTYLAMMONIUM) HEXAKISISOTHIOCYANATOSCANDATE (III)

Abstract Crystallographic structural refinements of the cubic ( I ) and triclinic ( II ) forms of [( n -C 4 H 9 ) 4 N] 3 [Sc(NCS) 6 ] have been carried out by means of three-dimensional single-crystal X-ray diffractometry. The cubic form crystallizes in space group Pa 3 (No. 205, Z =8) and the triclinic form crystallizes in P 1 (No. 2, Z =2). The respective lattice constants are a =24.630(4) A ( I ) and a =12.232(2), b =12.655(3), c =22.337(4) A, α =90.48(3), β =90.92(3), γ =96.73(3)° ( II ). A full-matrix least-squares refinement program yielded final reliability ( R ) factors of 0.088 and 0.061 based on 1078 and 4660 unique reflections, respectively. In both complexes, the molecular units consist of three separate cationic tetra- n -butylammonium groups and an independent hexakisisothiocyanatoscandium anionic group. The n -butyl ligands are coordinated tetrahedrally to the ammonium–nitrogen atoms and the near linear six thiocyanate ligands coordinate octahedrally through the nitrogen atoms to the scandium metal center atoms. Characterizations include physical property determinations and spectrometric identifications employing I.R., 1 H and 13 C NMR and X-ray powder analyses. Selected bond distances and angles as well as syntheses and peripheral studies are presented and discussed.
Transformation-mismatch superplasticity in reinforced and unreinforced titanium

Samples of commercial-purity titanium, with and without 10 vol.% TiC particulates, were thermally cycled about the allotropic transformation temperature of titanium. Thermal ratcheting was small for both unstressed materials. Upon application of an external uniaxial tensile stress, unreinforced titanium exhibited large strain increments, resulting from the biasing by the applied stress of the volume mismatch developed between grains during the transformation. Upon repeated cycling, a strain to fracture of 200% was reached, with a strain per cycle proportional to the external stress, in agreement with existing transformation-mismatch superplasticity models. The metal matrix composite displayed transformation-mismatch superplasticity as well, with a strain to fracture of 135% and a strain per cycle significantly higher than for unreinforced titanium. This novel enhancement of superplastic strain is modeled by considering the internal mismatch between the transforming matrix and the non-transforming particulates.
Nanoclay reinforcement effects on the cryogenic microcracking of carbon fiber/epoxy composites

The matrices of carbon fiber/epoxy composites were modified with layered inorganic clays and a traditional filler to determine the effects of particle reinforcement, both micro and nano scale, on the response of these materials to cryogenic cycling. The mechanical properties of the laminates studied were not significantly altered through nanoclay modification of the matrix. The incorporation of nanoclay reinforcement in the proper concentration resulted in laminates with microcrack densities lower than those seen in the unmodified or macro-reinforced materials as a response to cryogenic cycling. Lower nanoclay concentrations resulted in a relatively insignificant reduction in microcracking and higher concentrations displayed a traditional filler effect.
Self-assembled monolayer facilitates epithelial-mesenchymal interactions mimicking odontogenesis.

AbstractCell-cell interactions are vital for embryonic organ development and normal function of differentiated cells and tissues. In this study we have developed a self-assembled monolayer-based co-culture system to study tooth morphogenesis. Specifically, we designed a 2-D microenvironment present in the dental tissue by creating a well-structured, laterally organized epithelial and mesenchymal cell co-culture system by patterning the cell-attachment substrate. Chemical modifications were used to develop tunable surface patterns to facilitate epithelial-mesenchymal interactions mimicking the developing tooth. Such a design promoted interactions between monolayer’s of the 2 cell types and provided signaling cues that resulted in cellular differentiation and mineralized matrix formation. Gene expression analysis showed that these co-cultures mimicked in-vivo conditions than monolayer cultures of a single cell type.
The North American interlibrary loan and document delivery project: improving ILL/DD services

Describes the goals and background of the North American Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery (NAILDD) Project. Summarizes current ILL/DD pressures and trends in North American libraries. Details the Project’s three technical priorities, including the work of the ILL protocol implementors group. Also highlights related ARL initiatives in interlibrary loan and document delivery.
Radioactivity in strange quark matter

We develop a mass formula for finite lumps of strange quark matter near flavor equilibrium. Our Fermi-gas model includes surface tension and Coulomb energy but not quantum-chromodynamic radiative corrections. Assuming strange matter is stable in bulk, we investigate the radioactive decays of finite strangelets (clumps of strange matter with baryon number Aapprox. <10/sup 7/). We derive conditions governing instability for all decay modes. The regions of baryon number, charge, and hypercharge in which various decays are allowed are illustrated graphically, and flow lines and accumulation lines for decaying strangelets are obtained. Finally, we present typical histories of decaying strangelets.
Distribution, laminar location, and morphology of tectal neurons projecting to the isthmo-optic nucleus and the nucleus isthmi, pars parvocellularis in the pigeon (Columba livia) and chick (Gallus domesticus): a retrograde labelling study.

Retrograde transport of Phaseolus vulgaris leucoagglutinin (PHA-L), fluorogold, fast blue, rhodamine labelled microspheres, and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was employed to study the distribution, laminar location within the optic tectum, and morphology of tectal cells projecting upon the isthmo-optic nucleus (ION) and the nucleus isthmi, pars parvocellularis (Ipc), in the pigeon and chick. Following injections into the ION, all retrograde markers labelled tecto-ION neurons and their dendrites in the ipsilateral tectum. The cells were located within a relatively narrow band at the border between layers 9 and 10 of the stratum griseum et fibrosum superficial (SGFS). Retrogradely labelled neuronal somata were different in both dendritic branching and shape; however, tecto-ION neurons generally possessed non-spiny radially oriented and multi-branched dendrites. The apical processes extended into the retino-recipient layers (2–7) of the SGFS and basal dendrites extended into layers 12–14 of the SGFS. Positive neuronal somata were observed throughout the rostro-caudal extent of the optic tectum. The average distance between adjacent tecto-ION neurons varied from one region to another. Specifically, retro-gradely labelled cells were more numerous in the caudal, lateral, and ventral tectum, and less numerous at rostro-dorsal levels. Approximately 12,000 tecto-ION neurons were labelled within the ipsilateral optic tectum following either PHA-L or fluorescent dye injections. While the regional distribution of tecto-Ipc neurons was not examined, the morphology indicated that the cells had a single radially oriented dendritic process. Therefore, the apical dendrites are more restricted than those of tecto-ION cells. Moreover, the dendrites were spiny and arborized within layers 3, 5, and 9 of the ipsilateral optic tectum. The axon of tecto-Ipc cells arise from the apical process as a shepherd's crook and descend into the deep layers of the optic tectum. These results indicate that (1) tecto-ION and tecto-Ipc neurons are possibly monosynaptically activated by retinal input, (2) tecto-ION neurons are heterogeneous in morphology, and (3) there is a differential distribution of the tecto-ION neurons throughout the rostro-caudal extent of the optic tectum, suggesting a greater representation of the caudo-ventral portion of the optic tectum within the ION. The discussion primarily concerns the organization of the retino-tecto-ION-retinal circuit in light of the distribution and morphology of tecto-ION neurons within the optic tectum.
Gravitational waves from first-order cosmological phase transitions.

A first-order cosmological phase transition that proceeds through the nucleation and collision of true-vacuum bubbles is a potent source of gravitational radiation. Possibilities for such include first-order inflation, grand-unified-theory-symmetry breaking, and electroweak-symmetry breaking. We have calculated gravity-wave production from the collision of two scalar-field vacuum bubbles, and, using an approximation based upon these results, from the collision of 20 to 30 vacuum bubbles. We present estimates of the relic background of gravitational waves produced by a first-order phase transition.
Catalytic Plasticity of Fatty Acid Modification Enzymes Underlying Chemical Diversity of Plant Lipids

Higher plants exhibit extensive diversity in the composition of seed storage fatty acids. This is largely due to the presence of various combinations of double or triple bonds and hydroxyl or epoxy groups, which are synthesized by a family of structurally similar enzymes. As few as four amino acid substitutions can convert an oleate 12-desaturase to a hydroxylase and as few as six result in conversion of a hydroxylase to a desaturase. These results illustrate how catalytic plasticity of these diiron enzymes has contributed to the evolution of the chemical diversity found in higher plants.
The family as portrayed on prime-time television, 1947–1990: Structure and characteristics

“Successful family series” across four decades of American prime-time television were examined. Family portrayals were defined as either conventional or nonconventional. Conventional families were categorized as “couples without children” and “couples with children.” Nonconventional families were categorized as “single parent” or “contrived.” Additional family characteristics were also recorded including sex of single parent, reason for singleness, social class status, females employed outside the home, “live-ins,” race, and whether the presentation was dramatic or comedic. The data show a trend toward more equal presentation of conventional and nonconventional families, few divorced or female single parents, and few minority families. Implications of findings are discussed and future research questions suggested.
Further Results for the Many-Body Problem in One Dimension

The problem of $N$ particles interacting in one dimension by a repulsive delta-function potential is solved, when the wave function $\ensuremath{\psi}$ transforms like any irreducible representation ${R}_{\ensuremath{\psi}}$ of ${S}_{N}$ for which the Young tableau consists of a finite number of either rows or columns.
Study of viable models with non-universal gaugino mediation with CompHEP and ISAJET

Abstract We study the recently proposed scenario for SUSY GUT models in which compactification of the extra dimension(s) leads to a breakdown of the gauge symmetry and/or supersymmetry. SUSY breaking occurs on a hidden brane, and is communicated to the visible brane via gaugino mediation. The non-universal gaugino masses are developed at the compactification scale as a consequence of a restricted gauge symmetry on the hidden brane. For gaugino masses related due to a Pati–Salam symmetry on the hidden brane, we find the limited, but significant, regions of the model parameter space where a viable spectra of SUSY matter is generated. In the more general case of three independent gaugino masses, large parameter space regions open up for large values of the U(1) gaugino mass M 1 . We also find the relic density of neutralinos for these models to be generally below the expectations from cosmological observations, thus leaving room for hidden sector states to make up the bulk of cold dark matter.
Cholinergic stimulation of medial septum

Sixteen albino rats were implanted with a cannula into the medial septum. Stimulation of medial septum with carbachol increased activity in an open field, increased water consumption, but did not significantly increase defecation in a presumed fear-evoking situation.
Meat intake and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

We conducted a population-based, case–control study to test the hypothesis that consumption of meat and meat-related mutagens increases the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), and whether the associations are modified by N-acetyltransferase (NAT) 1 and 2. Participants (336 cases and 460 controls) completed a 117-item food frequency questionnaire. The risk of NHL was associated with a higher intake of red meat (OR = 1.5; CI, 1.1–2.2), total fat (OR = 1.4; CI, 1.0–2.1), and oleic acid (OR = 1.5; CI, 1.0–2.2). NHL risk was also associated with a higher intake of very well-done pork (OR = 2.5; 95 % CI, 1.4–4.3) and the meat-related mutagen MeIQx (OR = 1.6; 95 % CI, 1.1–2.3). Analyses of the major NHL histologic subtypes showed a positive association between diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and higher intake of red meat (OR = 2.1; 95 % CI, 1.1–3.9) and the association was largely due to meat-related mutagens as a positive association was observed for higher intakes of both MeIQx (OR = 2.4; 95 % CI, 1.2–4.6) and DiMeIQx (OR = 1.9; 95 % CI, 1.0–3.5). Although the OR for follicular lymphoma (FL) was also increased with a higher red meat intake (OR = 1.9; 95 % CI, 1.1–3.3), the association appeared to be due to increased oleic acid (OR = 1.7; 95 % CI: 0.9–3.1). We found no evidence that polymorphisms in NAT1 or NAT2 modify the association between NHL and meat-related mutagens. Our results provide further evidence that red meat consumption is associated with an increase in NHL risk, and new evidence that the specific components of meat, namely fat and meat-related mutagens, may be impacting NHL subtype risk differently.
Thermodynamic hydride donor abilities of [HW(CO)4L]- complexes (L = PPh3, P(OMe)3, CO) and their reactions with [C5Me5Re(PMe3)(NO)(CO)]+.

The thermodynamic hydride donor abilities of [HW(CO)5]- (40 kcal/mol), [HW(CO)4P(OMe3)]- (37 kcal/mol), and [HW(CO)4(PPh3)]- (36 kcal/mol) have been measured in acetonitrile by either equilibrium or calorimetric methods. The hydride donor abilities of these complexes are compared with other complexes for which similar thermodynamic measurements have been made. [HW(CO)5]-, [HW(CO)4P(OMe3)]-, and [HW(CO)4(PPh3)]- all react rapidly with [Cp*Re(PMe3)(NO)(CO)]+ to form dinuclear intermediates with bridging formyl ligands. These intermediates slowly form [Cp*Re(PMe3)(NO)(CHO)] and [W(CO)4(L)(CH3CN)]. The structure of cis-[HW(CO)4(PPh3)]- has been determined and has the expected octahedral structure. The hydride ligand bends away from the CO ligand trans to PPh3 and toward PPh3.
The EXIT procedure: Experience and outcome in 31 cases

Abstract Background: The EXIT (ex utero intrapartum treatment) procedure, although initially designed for reversal of tracheal occlusion in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernias (CDH), has been adapted to treat a variety of fetal conditions. Methods: A retrospective chart review of all consecutive EXIT procedures since 1996 was conducted. Results: Thirty-one women underwent the EXIT procedure, with an average maternal age of 29 years (range, 20 to 38), and average gestational age of 34 weeks (range, 29 to 40). The indication was airway obstruction from fetal neck mass in 13, and reversal of tracheal occlusion from in utero clipping in 13. Singular indications included an EXIT-to-ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) procedure for a fetus with CDH and a cardiac defect (n = 1), congenital high airway obstruction syndrome (CHAOS, n=1), resection of a very large congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung (CCAM) on uteroplacental bypass (n = 1), unilateral pulmonary agenesis (n = 1), and thoracoomphalopagus conjoined twins. The mean duration on uteroplacental bypass (from uterine incision to umbilical cord clamping) was 30.3 [plusmn] 14.7 minutes (range, 8 to 66). No fetus experienced hemodynamic instability during uteroplacental bypass as recorded by fetal heart rate (FHR), pulse oximeter, and fetal echocardiography, except for one instance of reversible bradycardia from umbilical cord compression. The mean FHR and fetal saturation were 153.0 [plusmn] 38.5 beats per minute and 71.2% [plusmn] 19.9%, respectively. Five fetuses required a tracheostomy. Only 1 death occurred during an EXIT procedure because of inability to secure the airway secondary to extensive involvement by a lymphangioma. The average cord pH and pCO 2 were, respectively, 7.20 [plusmn] 0.11 and 63.2 [plusmn] 14.6. Two maternal complications occurred: bleeding from a hysterotomy site and dehiscence of an old hysterotomy scar noticed at a subsequent cesarean section. The average maternal blood loss was 848.3 [plusmn] 574.1 mL. Conclusion: The EXIT procedure was used successfully to ensure uteroplacental gas exchange and fetal hemodynamic stability during a variety of surgical procedures performed to secure the fetal airway or ensure successful transition to postnatal environment.
Conflicting agendas and the future of NATO

(1994). Conflicting agendas and the future of NATO. Journal of Strategic Studies: Vol. 17, The Future of NATO, pp. 143-164.
Migration of an acetyl group in glucosamine and glucose derivatives by the action of butyllithium. The synthesis of an N-acetylglucosamine 4-phosphate derivative

The migration of the acetyl group from C4 to C6 occurs in partially acetylated derivatives of D-glucose and D-glucosamine upon reaction with butyllithium.
Modeling First Grade Reading Development

This study tested a hypothesized model examining reading proficiency across first grade. It addressed how alphabetics at the beginning of the year were mediated by applied and automated skills at the middle of the year to explain actualized reading at the end of the year. The alphabetic skills of 102 first graders were measured in October and the applied and automated skills measured in January. In May, actualized reading was measured. Using structural equation modeling, the model produced acceptable levels of model-fit across all indices. Reading fluency is an important developmental step in first grade that mediates foundational alphabetic skills.
Effect of pyruvate on the acute cyanide poisoning in mice

Sono stati studiati gli effetti del piruvato di sodio nella intossicazione acuta da cianuro nel topo. I risultati, statisticamente validi, dimostrano che il piruvato iniettato per via endovenosa riduce notevolmente l'effetto letale del cianuro di sodio somministrato per via endoperitoneale.
Calcified rims: Characteristic but uncommon radiologic finding in pseudomyxoma peritonei

Curvilinear calcifications on abdominal radiographs are described in a patient with pseudomyxoma peritonei, and the literature on the radiographic findings in this disease is reviewed. This sign is infrequent but characteristic. Other radiographic features of the case are also presented, as well as ultrasound and gallium scans. The latter have not been reported previously in pseudomyxoma peritonei and showed the uncommon finding of “cold” lesions.
A Solid‐Phase Radioassay for the Quantitative Determination of Antiplasmin Activity in Human Plasma

Summary. The caseinolytic activity of one CTA (Committee on Thrombolytic Agents) unit of human plasmin is inhibited by a series of plasma dilutions containing antiplasmin. The neutralization of the standard plasmin by increasing amounts of antiplasmin shows a steeper linear decrease of plasmin activity between 1.0 and 0.5 CTA units and a much smaller further inactivation below 0.5 CTA units. It is thought that the standard plasmin is partially damaged at the antiplasmin combining site during the purification procedure and might be responsible for the differences in plasmin-antiplasmin neutralization in the standard curve. Using the steeper slope of the plasmin neutralization curve, an average of 8.6±1.0 CTA units plasmin neutralizing activity per ml human plasma was found in 36 healthy donors. The difficulty of obtaining ‘native’ standard plasmin with full antiplasmin combining capacity represents the main problem of a reproducible reliable antiplasmin assay.
A new software tool (VA-BATTS) to calculate bending, axial, torsional and transverse shear stresses within bone cross sections having inhomogeneous material properties

Introduction: This study introduces, validates and demonstrates a new automated software tool (VA-BATTS) to calculate bone stresses within a bone cross section subjected to bending, axial, torsional and transverse shear far-field loading conditions, using quantitative computed tomography (QCT) data. Methods: A QCT image is imported and processed to generate a 2D finite element (FE) mesh of the bone with inhomogeneous (CT-based) transversely isotropic material properties. Bending and axial stresses are determined using inhomogeneous beam theory; torsional and transverse shear stresses are calculated using a new 2D FE formulation. Results: Validation studies show excellent agreement between results obtained using VA-BATTS and results obtained using analytical 2D models and inhomogeneous 3D FE models. Discussion: Out-of-plane bone stresses can be accurately calculated using a 2D analysis. Material inhomogeneity can have a marked effect on predicted stresses. In three-point bending experiments, transverse she...
Influencing College Students' Perceptions of Videocounseling

Technology has made inroads in the counseling field in the form of e-mail, chat, and videoconferencing. It is not clear, however, whether college students perceive technology to be an acceptable application to counseling. The purpose of this study was to assess students' attitudes and expectations for a particular type of technology application—videocounseling. The results indicated that after watching a simulated videocounseling session students placed greater value in videocounseling, felt less discomfort with videocounseling, and expected videocounseling to be an effective and satisfactory approach. The merits of using such a role induction procedure with college students who consider participating in videocounseling are discussed as well as the implications of this therapy approach for counseling training programs and university counseling centers.
Microphysical modeling of ethane ice clouds in titan's atmosphere

Abstract A time-dependent microphysical model is used to study the evolution of ethane ice clouds in Titan’s atmosphere. The model simulates nucleation, condensational growth, evaporation, coagulation, and transport of particles. For a critical saturation of 1.15 (a lower limit, determined by laboratory experiments), we find that ethane clouds can be sustained between altitudes of 8 and 50 km. Growth due to coalescence is inefficient, limiting the peak in the size distribution (by number) to 10 μm. These clouds vary with a period of about 20 days. This periodicity disappears for higher critical saturation values where clouds remain subvisible. Rainout of ethane due to methane cloud formation raises the altitude of the ethane cloud bottom to near the tropopause and may eliminate ethane clouds entirely if methane cloud formation occurs up to 30 km. However, clouds formed above the troposphere from other gases in Titan’s atmosphere could be sustained even with rainout up to 30 km. Although the optical depth of ethane clouds above 20 km is typically low, short-lived clouds with optical depths of order 0.1–1 can be created sporadically by dynamically driven atmospheric cooling. Ethane cloud particles larger than 25 μm can fall to the surface before total evaporation. However, ethane clouds remain only a small sink for tholin particles. At the peak of their cycle, the optical depth of ethane clouds could be comparable to that of tholin in the near-infrared, resulting in a 5% increase in Titan’s albedo for wavelengths between 1 and 2 μm. A number of factors limit our ablility to predict the ethane cloud properties. These factors include the mixing time in the troposphere, the critical saturation ratio for ethane ice, the existence of a surface reservoir of ethane, the magnitude and timing of dynamically driven temperature perturbations, and the abundance and life cycle of methane clouds.
Visual abnormalities associated with enhanced optic nerve myelination

Expression of the constitutively active serine/threonine kinase Akt in oligodendrocytes results in enhanced myelination in the CNS. Here, we have examined the effects of this Akt overexpression on optic nerve structure and on optic nerve function, assessed using the visual evoked potential (VEP). Transgenic mice have been generated with the Plp promoter driving expression of a modified form of Akt, in which aspartic acids are substituted for Thr308 and Ser473. These Plp-Akt-DD (Akt-DD) mice, and littermate controls, were studied at different ages. Optic nerves were examined anatomically at 2 and 6 months of age. At 2 months of age, optic nerves were substantially thicker in Akt-DD mice, reflecting an increase in myelination of optic nerve axons. By electron microscopy, myelin thickness was increased in Akt-DD optic nerve, with extended paranodal domains having excess paranodal loops, and the density of nodes of Ranvier was reduced, relative to control mice. We recorded VEPs in response to strobe flash ganzfeld stimuli presented after overnight dark- and light-adapted conditions at ages ranging from 1 to 10 months. It was possible to record a clear VEP from Akt-DD mice at all ages examined. At 1 month of age, VEP implicit times were somewhat shorter in Akt-DD transgenic mice than in control animals. Beyond 6 months of age, VEP latencies were consistently delayed in Akt-DD transgenic mice. These abnormalities did not reflect an alteration in retinal function as there were no significant differences between ERGs obtained from control or Akt-DD transgenic mice. In young mice, the somewhat faster responses may reflect improved transmission due to increased myelination of optic nerve axons. In older mice, where the Akt-DD optic nerve is markedly thicker than control, it is remarkable that optic nerves continue to function.
The eukaryotic host factor that activates exoenzyme S of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a member of the 14-3-3 protein family.

Abstract Exoenzyme S (ExoS), which has been implicated as a virulence factor of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, catalyzes transfer of the ADP-ribose moiety of NAD+ to many eukaryotic cellular proteins. Its preferred substrates include Ras and several other 21- to 25-kDa GTP-binding proteins. ExoS absolutely requires a ubiquitous eukaryotic protein factor, termed FAS (factor activating ExoS), for enzymatic activity. Here we describe the cloning and expression of a gene encoding FAS from a bovine brain cDNA library and demonstrate that purified recombinant FAS produced in Escherichia coli activates ExoS in a defined cell-free system. The deduced amino acid sequence of FAS shows that the protein (245 residues, calculated molecular mass 27,743 Da) belongs to a highly conserved, widely distributed eukaryotic protein family, collectively designated as 14-3-3 proteins. Various functions have been reported for members of the 14-3-3 family, including phospholipase A2 activity and regulation of tyrosine hydroxylase, tryptophan hydroxylase, and, possibly, protein kinase C activities. Identification of FAS as a 14-3-3 protein establishes an additional function for this family of proteins--the activation of an exogenous ADP-ribosyltransferase. Elucidation of the precise role of FAS in activating ExoS will contribute to understanding the molecular mechanisms by which P. aeruginosa causes disease.
High-speed confocal laser scanning microscopy using acousto-optic deflectors and a digital micromirror device

Neurons are known to possess active computational properties. To investigate these properties, it is desirable to study the electrical and chemical properties not only at a living neuron's cell body, but also at many sites within its dendritic arborization. However, currently available recording techniques force a tradeoff between spatial and temporal resolution. To overcome these limitations, we have developed a confocal microscope that can make multisite optical recordings at an effective frame rate that is sufficient to measure fast neuronal events, such as action potentials, that occur on a timescale of milliseconds. We accomplished this by combining acousto-optic deflectors for addressable point illumination with a digital micromirror device for addressable point detection. After developing a registration algorithm to ensure synchronicity between point illumination and point detection, we used light-scattering test preparations to demonstrate that our system is capable of optical sectioning and therefore capable of imaging in living brain tissue. Furthermore, we have shown that fluorescence changes can be monitored at an effective frame rate of 25 kHz.
EEG correlates of unsupervised spatial learning in immersive, large-scale virtual environments

Using a novel, fully-mobile virtual reality paradigm, we investigated the EEG correlates of spatial representations formed during unsupervised exploration. During a test phase, 24-hours after initial exploration, when subjects perceived an object that was incongruent with their spatial expectations we found a decreased negativity peaking at 170ms with scalp topography consistent with generation in the medial parietal cortex. There also was an increased positivity starting at 540ms to these incongruent objects, with scalp topography consistent with generation in inferior temporal cortex. These findings point to neural markers of situational awareness in a naturalistic environment.
Response of young broiler chickens to chronic injection of recombinant-derived human insulin-like growth factor-I.

The purpose of this study was to determine if exogenous insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) would improve growth rate or body composition of young broiler chickens. Broiler cockerels were given a daily intramuscular (im) injection of sodium acetate buffer (buffer control), 100 or 200 μg recombinant-derived human IGF-I (rhIGF-I) per kg body weight from 11 to 24 days of age. Exogenous IGF-I did not affect the average daily gain, average daily feed consumption, or the gain-to-feed ratio of broiler chickens. Although daily injection of 200 μg/kg of rhIGF-I reduced (P<0.05) body ash content, there was no significant effect of IGF-I treatment on either body fat or protein content. Plasma GH levels were depressed (P<0.05) by chronic treatment with rhIGF-I. In contrast, plasma levels of T3 and T4 were not affected by rhIGF-I treatment. The half-life of rhIGF-I in plasma was determined at 25 days of age in naive control or chronically-injected chickens after a single intravenous dose of 50 μg rhIGF-I/kg. We found a single compartment, first-order disappearance pattern of rhIGF-I from chicken plasma. The half-life (t12) of rhIGF-I in plasma was similar (t12 = 32.5 min) for naive controls (injected once) or chronically-treated chickens which had received a daily injection of rhIGF-I (100 or 200 μg/kg) for 14 d. These data indicate that daily injection of IGF-I cannot be used to enhance growth performance or body composition of broiler chickens when given during the early growth period. The depression of plasma GH levels in rhIGF-I-injected chickens supports a negative-feedback role of IGF-I on pituitary GH secretion.
When All is said and Done

Dr. Benacerraf describes his experience in training immunologists for a period of over 30 years. He then analyzes the circumstances in which selected discoveries were made in his laboratory and the events and reasoning that led to these findings. The following topics are discussed: The phagocytic activity of the reticulo-endothelial system. The pathogenesis of immune complex diseases. The impact of activated macrophages on tumor rejection. The evidence that T-cell immunity is specific for internal protein determinants generated by antigen processing. The maturation of the antibody response in terms of antibody affinity. The discovery of Ir gene control of specific immuner esponses and the role of MHC molecules as presenters of peptide antigens to T cells. The generation of alloreactivity. Lastly, he addresses the administration of science and, particularly, the problems related to the transfer of technology to industrial partners.
Graphical estimation of the dual-enzyme kinetic parameters for Cr(VI) reduction

Chromium(VI) (Cr(VI)) contamination of soil and groundwater is a major environmental concern. Bioreduction of Cr(VI) by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 (MR-1) can be considered a feasible option to reduce the toxic and mobile Cr(VI) to the less toxic and less mobile chromium(III) (Cr(III)). The reaction rate expression for Cr(VI) reduction is nonlinear and the rate constants are evaluated by employing nonlinear optimization techniques. The outcome of the optimization techniques, in general, depends on the initial estimate of the kinetic parameters which is not always available. A graphical approach based on sound mathematical reasoning has been developed which is accurate, simpler to use, and can provide the best initial estimate for nonlinear optimization.
Urethane Coatings for Textile Substrates

Urethane polymers exhibit a wide range of properties making them one of the most versatile polymers of today. Urethanes range from very hard and brittle materials to soft, pliable and highly extens...
High performance simulations for transformational earthquake risk assessments

Earthquakes occurring around the world are responsible for extensive loss of life and infrastructure damage. On average, 1100 earthquakes with significant damage potential occur world-wide per year, and a major societal challenge is to design a human environment that contains appropriate earthquake resistance. Design of critical infrastructure such as large buildings, bridges, industrial facilities and nuclear power plants in seismically active regions is a significant scientific and engineering challenge that encompasses the multiple disciplines of geophysics, geotechnical and structural engineering. Because of the great complexities in earthquake physical processes, traditional approaches to seismic hazard assessment have relied heavily on historical earthquake observations. In this approach, observational data from many locations is homogenized into an empirical assessment of earthquake hazard at any specific site of interest. With major advancements in high performance computing platforms and algorithms, it is now possible to utilize physics-based predictive models to gain enhanced insight about site-specific earthquake ground motions and infrastructure response. This paper discusses recent advancements in geophysics and infrastructure simulations and future challenges in implementing advanced simulations for both earthquake hazard (future ground motions) and earthquake risk (infrastructure response and damage) assessments.
Oceanographic dynamics and the end of the last interglacial in the subpolar North Atlantic

The last interglacial interval was terminated by the inception of a long, progressive glaciation that is attributed to astronomically influenced changes in the seasonal distribution of sunlight over the earth. However, the feedbacks, internal dynamics, and global teleconnections associated with declining northern summer insolation remain incompletely understood. Here we show that a crucial early step in glacial inception involves the weakening of the subpolar gyre (SPG) circulation of the North Atlantic Ocean. Detailed new records of microfossil foraminifera abundance and stable isotope ratios in deep sea sediments from Ocean Drilling Program site 984 south of Iceland reveal repeated, progressive cold water-mass expansions into subpolar latitudes during the last peak interglacial interval, marine isotope substage 5e. These movements are expressed as a sequence of progressively extensive southward advances and subsequent retreats of a hydrographic boundary that may have been analogous to the modern Arctic front, and associated with rapid changes in the strength of the SPG. This persistent millennial-scale oceanographic oscillation accompanied a long-term cooling trend at a time of slowly declining northern summer insolation, providing an early link in the propagation of those insolation changes globally, and resulting in a rapid transition from extensive regional warmth to the dramatic instability of the subsequent ∼100 ka.
Involvement of Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 2 Isoform Switching in Mammary Oncogenesis

We identified the IIIb C2 epithelial cell-specific splice variant of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2 IIIb C2) receptor tyrosine kinase in a screen for activated oncogenes expressed in T-47D human breast carcinoma cells. We found FGFR2 IIIb C2 expression in breast carcinoma cell lines and, additionally, expression of the mesenchymal-specific FGFR2 IIIc splice variant in invasive breast carcinomas. FGFR2 IIIc expression was associated with loss of epithelial markers and gain of mesenchymal markers. Although FGFR2 IIIb is expressed in epithelial cells, previous studies on FGFR2 IIIb transformation have focused on NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. Therefore, we compared the transforming activities of FGFR2 IIIb C2 in RIE-1 intestinal cells and several mammary epithelial cells. FGFR2 IIIb C2 caused growth transformation of epithelial cells but morphologic transformation of only NIH 3T3 cells. FGFR2 IIIb C2-transformed NIH 3T3, but not RIE-1 cells, showed persistent activation of Ras and increased cyclin D1 protein expression. NIH 3T3 but not RIE-1 cells express keratinocyte growth factor, a ligand for FGFR2 IIIb C2. Ectopic treatment with keratinocyte growth factor caused FGFR2 IIIb C2-dependent morphologic transformation of RIE-1 cells, as well as cyclin D1 up-regulation, indicating that both ligand-independent and stromal cell-derived, ligand-dependent mechanisms contribute to RIE-1 cell transformation. Our results support cell context distinct mechanisms of FGFR2 IIIb C2 transformation.
Can a Secularist Appreciate Religious Music

David Pugmire has argued that secularists can genuinely appreciate religious music because of our imaginative powers combined with the ‘Platonic’ nature of the emotions expressed in such music. I argue that Pugmire is wrong on both counts. Religious music is ‘Platonic’ not because it is subject to levels of imagination but because it has a definite object which makes imaginative readings inferior. Moreover, since religious music does have a clear object taken by the believer as real, a gap exists that cannot be bridged by the imagination of the secularist, even imagination of the emotional ‘last instance’.
Roselle Lineament of Southeast Missouri

Examination of side-looking radar imagery of the St. Francois Mountains of southeast Missouri has revealed many structural features which are obscure or only poorly depicted on conventional aerial photographs. Most prominent is a distinct linear element extending southward across the imagery from east of Flat River to southeast of Ironton, Missouri, through the southeast Missouri Lead Belt. Field examination has confirmed a fault zone, named the Roselle fault by the author. This structure has not previously been recognized; no mention of it was found in literature, nor is it shown on any geologic map of the area. The structure traverses Precambrian and Paleozoic rocks. Analysis of geologic and topographic maps north and south of the area covered by radar imagery reveals a series of topographic and structural features remarkably well aligned with the Roselle fault. To the south, these include drainage alignments and a buried Precambrian scarp, and to the north, the Plattin anticline and the course of the Mississippi River north of Crystal City. These features form an almost continuous alignment extending for over 155 mi from southwest of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, north-northeast to the vicinity of the junction of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. This alignment of features is termed the Roselle lineament. I suggest this lineament has been in existence since the Precambrian as a major lineament of this portion of the crust and that it may have been important in localization of mineral deposition in southeast Missouri.
Interaction of glucagon and epinephrine in the control of hepatic glucose production in the conscious dog

Epinephrine increases net hepatic glucose output (NHGO) mainly via increased gluconeogenesis, whereas glucagon increases NHGO mainly via increased glycogenolysis. The aim of the present study was t...
A bio-robotic leg orthosis for rehabilitation and mobility enhancement

This paper describes a wearable powered leg orthosis that includes a high-torque actuator, electronics, sensors, and embedded firmware. The device provides multiple modes of operation including automatic assistance, manual assistance, continuous passive motion and robotic therapy. Patients affected by neurological conditions including stroke, MS, and Parkinson’s disease may benefit from robotic therapy and from the improved mobility provided by this portable, lightweight device. A preliminary study of chronic stroke patients has shown retained improvement in walking speed for patients undergoing rehabilitation with the device.
Clinical wear measurement on low contact stress rotating platform knee bearings.

Abstract Whereas fixed-bearing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) designs secure the polyethylene bearing to the tibial tray, mobile-bearing TKAs allow the bearing to move relative to the tray. This study evaluated wear performance of the rotational articulation of the Low Contact Stress Rotating Platform mobile-bearing TKA (DePuy, Warsaw, Ind) by analyzing 100 retrievals. All retrieved bearings showed rotation surface damage, but severity of the damage did not correlate with duration. Rotation surface damage appeared to be caused by contaminant particles, which produced curvilinear scratches that were longer than the normal rotational excursion of the knee. Wear measurement indicated that wear was relatively uniform, long-term wear rates were low (mean, 54 mm 3 /y for durations >2 years) and decreased with longer duration, and damaged appearance did not correspond to high wear.