cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
General covariance and open string interactions

Abstract It has been suggested that Witten's open string cubic interaction is independent of the background geometry. We investigate this suggestion in detail with a view to understanding the role of closed strings in Witten's open string field theory. The standard oscillator formulation of the vertex requires the use of a metric, if it is to be generally covariant, indicating that closed string interactions are required. However by changing to variables better suited to treating the midpoint, we show explicitly that it is possible to transform away all reference to the background metric. This supports the assertion that the cubic action (of Horowitz, Lykken, Rohm and Strominger) can also describe closed strings.
Sub-20-nm node photomask cleaning enhancement by controlling zeta potential

As semiconductor manufacturing advances to sub-20-nm nodes, specification (size < 50 nm) for extremely fine particles on photomasks is getting more and more stringent. Photomask cleanliness, which seriously impacts manufacturing cycle time and productivity, is a serious challenge in the development of sub-20-nm node mask cleaning process. Several cleaning approaches, including the use of chemical and physical forces, are widely used in mask cleaning. In this study, we focus on the chemical force through zeta potential (ZP). ZP indicates the degree of repulsion between the particles and the mask surface (mostly quartz). In the nano-scale, stronger repulsion means easier removal of particles from mask surfaces. By controlling ZP of different chemicals from -10 mV to -150 mV in the cleaning process, the particle removal efficiency (PRE) is further improved by about 10%, especially for extremely fine particles. The ZP measurement methodology for different cleaning chemicals on quartz surface is also carried out. ZP is a helpful index in evaluating the performance of new chemicals for mask cleaning. To enhance photomask cleaning for sub-20-nm nodes, the chemical force needs to be increased because the physical force has been constrained to avoid pattern damages, especially when much smaller assistant features are commonly used to gain a greater lithography process window. How to choose a suitable cleaning approach for the next generation mask cleaning is very critical.
The effects of unequal relearning rates on estimating forgetting parameters associated with performance curves

Abstract Progress curves used to predict industrial task standard times rarely consider extended break effect. In this study, breaks ranging from 2 to 83 days were examined for low and moderately-high cognitive tasks. Regression analysis was used for developing models to predict the first iteration performance times after a break, relearning rates and times required to return to steady state. Once these essential variables were predicted the time lost to learning and forgetting parameters were calculated. This study determined that relearning is not equal to the initial learning parameter even where total forgetting has occurred. Since steeper relearning rates significantly reduced both time lost to learning and the forgetting parameters, for one to assume equal rates may result in very conservative time estimates. Such a conservative approach could result in not realizing full worker potential. Thus these variables are useful in establishing realistic industrial standard times.
Transformation plasticity and thermoelastic behavior in ZrO2 -containing ceramics

Transformation plasticity in ZrO2, which is responsible for the high strength and high toughness of advanced ZrO2-based ceramics, is reviewed. The tetragonal → monoclinic martensitic transformation is of prime importance, but its successful exploitation requires a good deal of microstructural control. Under certain conditions, the transformation can be reversible, autocatalytic, and thermoelastic.
Major histocompatibility complex class I genes of Peromyscus leucopus.

Class I genes of the Peromyscus leucopus major histocompatibility complex (MhcPele) were examined by Southern blot hybridization, genomic cloning, and DNA sequencing. At least three distinct subtypes of Pele class I genes were discerned, which we have designated Pele-A, B, and C. The nucleotide sequences of exon 5-containing regions (encoding the transmembrane domain) suggested that Pele-A genes are homologs of mouse H-2K, D, L, and Q genes and that Pele-B genes correspond to mouse Tla genes. The Pele-C genes appeared similar to mouse M1 genes. The number of unique genes in each subtype cloned from an individual P. leucopus were 20 for Pele-A, 13 for Pele-B, and 2 for Pele-C. Three genomic clones showed cross-hybridization to both Pele-A and Pele-B gene-specific probes. Six genomic clones remained unclassified as they did not cross-hybridize to exon 5-containing probes from Pele-A, B, or C genes. The homology between the transmembrane domains of Pele class I gene subtypes was found to be similar to that observed between the transmembrane domains of H-2 subtypes (or groups). Interspecific similarity of exon 5 was found to be 81%–88% between Pele class I genes and their H-2 counterparts.
The pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical efficacy, safety and tolerability of linaclotide

Introduction: Linaclotide is a novel intestinal secretagogue that is in the advanced stages of development for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic constipation. These functional gastrointestinal disorders are highly prevalent in adults and children and often do not respond satisfactorily to available treatments. Linaclotide appears to be a promising new agent for patients who are not satisfied with currently available agents. Areas covered: This article is formed from a literature review of all the studies published about linaclotide up to January 2011. It covers the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of this novel agent. It also provides a summary of the published clinical trials concerning efficacy and safety in patients with chronic constipation and IBS-C. The authors provide the reader with a better understanding of how the molecular pathophysiology of certain enteropathic diarrheal bacteria lead to the development of this novel prosecretory drug. The rea...
Records of the Deer Mouse on the Gulf Coastal Plain

Only one previous report lists the deer mouse, Peromyscus maniculatus , as occurring on the Gulf Coastal Plain (Osgood: N. Amer. Fauna 28, 1909). An additional occurrence is reported here. Three of these mice were captured by hand on the evening of March 11, 1955, on Texas State Farm Roads 881 and 1781, about 4 miles northeast of Rockport, Aransas County, Texas. One was taken in an area of scattered live oaks and the others in an area of low shrubs and sparse grasses. The …
Verticillium wilt resistant germplasm: release of Russet clone B0169-56

Potato breeding selection B0169-56 is being released by the United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service as germplasm that is highly resistant toVerticillium albo-atrum Reinke & Berthier andV. dahliae Kleb. In five years of field testing in the Verticillium wilt plot in Presque Isle, Maine, the level of resistance as measured by symptom severity is equal to that of Russette. In 1993, in plots inoculated with both species ofVerticillium, there was a 15,27 and 62% yield reduction for B0169-56, Russette, and Superior, respectively. After four years of evaluation in yield and processing trials in Presque Isle, Maine, B0169-56 has yielded and fried as well as Russet Burbank. Tubers are russet-skinned, oblong to long and cylindrical. Tubers of B0169-56 size early, a necessary quality for an eastern russet. It is both female and male fertile. This selection is currently undergoing further evaluation at multiple state locations for possible commercialization. Seed is available from the USDA/ARS, Beltsville, Maryland.
Synthesis, structure and thermal analysis of the gallium complex of 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclo-dodecane-N,N′,N″,N‴-tetraacetic acid (DOTA)

Abstract As part of our efforts to synthesize gallium bioconjugates based on folic acid and thiamin we have utilized 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclo-dodecane-N,N′,N″,N‴-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) as the chelating ligand for gallium(III). The reaction of gallium chloride with DOTA at room temperature in aqueous solution affords the complex [Ga(HDOTA) · 5.5H2O] (1), which is characterized by single-crystal X-ray spectroscopy, electrospray mass spectrometry and thermal gravimetric analysis. Gallium displays 6-coordinate distorted octahedral geometry within a puckered macrocyclic DOTA framework. The equatorial plane comprises two nitrogens of the DOTA ring and two oxygens from two of the four pendant carboxylic acid groups. The axial positions are comprised of the remaining two transannular nitrogens of the DOTA ring.
Neurobiological mechanisms in human anxiety evidence supporting central noradrenergic hyperactivity

Preclinical studies in laboratory rodents and non-human primates have led to the hypothesis that noradrenergic hyperactivity is associated with some human anxiety states. This hypothesis has recently received support from a variety of clinical investigations. Drugs which increase noradrenergic function induce anxiety in human subjects. Increased turnover of norepinephrine has been shown to occur with naturally occurring anxiety conditions. The mechanism of action clonidine and tricyclic antidepressants as antianxiety agents may be due to their ability to reduce central noradrenergic function. Future studies will need to evaluate, in addition to central noradrenergic function, other neuronal systems in brain involving endogenous opioids, benzodiazepine receptors, purines and gamma-aminobutyric acid in human anxiety disorders.
Abstract 461: Involvement of α9β1 integrin-iNOS pathway in matrix metalloproteinase-9 and/or urokinase plasminogen activator receptor-mediated glioma cell migration

Src tyrosine kinase activates inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and, in turn, nitric oxide (NO) production as a means to transduce cell migration. Src tyrosine kinase plays a key proximal role to control α9β1 signaling. Our recent studies have clearly demonstrated the role of α9β1 integrin in matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and/or urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR)-mediated glioma cell migration. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the involvement of α9β1 integrin-iNOS pathway in MMP-9- and/or uPAR-mediated glioma cell migration. Immunohistochemical analysis of the glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) tissue array revealed the prominent presence of iNOS in several clinical GBM samples. In addition, immunofluorescence analysis of U251 glioma cell lines and 5310 glioma xenograft cells showed a prominent expression of iNOS. Transcriptional inactivation of MMP-9 and/or uPAR by respective shRNA reduced iNOS expression in both U521 and 5310 glioma cells. RT-PCR analysis revealed elevated iNOS mRNA expression in these glioma cells after transfection with MMP-9- or uPAR-overexpressing plasmids. Wound healing and spheroid migration assays showed a significant inhibition of the migration potential of MMP-9- or uPAR-overexpressed U251 glioma cells after treatment with L-NAME, an inhibitor of iNOS. Similarly, Matrigel invasion assay revealed a significant inhibition of the invasion potential of the control or MMP-9/uPAR-overexpressed U251 and 5310 glioma cells after L-NAME treatment. Further, we noticed a prominent reduction of iNOS expression in the tumor regions of nude mice brains, which were injected with 5310 glioma cells, after MMP-9 and/or uPAR knockdown. Integrin α9β1 regulates iNOS activity via Src tyrosine kinase; Src coordinates subsequent signaling pathways through activation of FAK and tyrosine phosphorylation of the adaptor protein p130Cas. Western blot analysis of MMP-9 and/or uPAR shRNA treated U251 and 5310 glioma cells revealed significant reductions in the protein expression of cSrc, phosphoSrc, FAK and p130Cas after simultaneous downregulation of both MMP-9 and uPAR. Taken together, our results from the present and earlier studies clearly demonstrate that α9β1 integrin-mediated cell migration utilizes the iNOS pathway, and inhibition of the migratory potential of these glioma cells by simultaneous knockdown of MMP-9 and uPAR could be attributed to the reduced α9β1 integrin and iNOS levels. Therefore, our results highlight the possible involvement of α9β1 integrin-iNOS pathway in MMP-9- and/or uPAR-mediated glioma cell migration. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 461. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-461
Characterization and safe handling of reactive initiator solutions

The thermal stability of initiators used in free radical polymerizations has been well documented. Initiators are often used in solutions, with relatively long feed periods to help control the heat of polymerization. In some cases, the stability of the initiator solutions is limited, especially at higher concentrations, and runaway reactions can potentially be severe. This article reviews the chemical reactivity of concentrated initiator solutions and considers PHA studies and feed tank design to help ensure safe handling and manufacture. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2006
Formality of signature as an index of subject motivation in the psychological experiment

The psychological experiment has been characterized by Orne as a formal role situation which participants take seriously. Increased seriousness may be reflected in many behaviors, even in the way in which one signs one’s name. Initial signup names and signatures within the experiment proper were available for 2 group rating experiments. Analyses showed that 22% of all participants used different versions of their signature for the 2 occasions. Of this sample of changers 88% used a signature in the experiment that was more formal than their signup signature. These data were interpreted as in line with Orne’s theorizing.
EFFECTS OF RATER TRAINING AND PARTICIPATION ON COGNITIVE COMPLEXITY: AN EXPLORATION OF SCHNEIER'S COGNITIVE REINTERPRETATION

Schneier (1977) proposed that rater cognitive complexity interacts with format to affect the psychometric soundness of ratings. He also speculated that cognitive complexity may be enhanced by having raters participate in training and/or scale construction programs. This study was designed to test these latter hypotheses, while also providing a partial replication of Schneier's original research. Ninety-six undergraduate students were assigned to four groups. One participated in the construction of a set of BARS and was trained in their use, a second participated in BARS construction only, a third received training only, and the fourth served as a control group. All subjects were administered a measure of cognitive complexity before and after the experimental treatments. Also, all subjects evaluated five simulated ratees using the BARS. A training × participation (2 × 2) ANOCOV indicated no change in cognitive complexity scores as a result of the experimental treatments. A training × participation × (nominalized) cognitive complexity (2 × 2 × 2) MANOVA on mean ratings for the five stimuli found no effects on leniency error. A similar MANOVA on variances of ratings provided little evidence for effects on halo error. These results, taken in conjunction with those of other investigators who have failed to replicate Schneier's findings, suggest that the cognitive reinterpretation should be accepted with caution at best.
Virtual Canadian Realities: Charting the Scott Pilgrim Universe

Through a mixture of political-economic and textual analysis, this article examines the Scott Pilgrim franchise, consisting of a series of graphic novels, feature film, and video game, from a transmedia storytelling perspective. By doing so, the author insists that the franchise constructs a globally networked vision of English-Canadian identity through a selective representation of Toronto that situates the city as a cultural filter for globally produced media. While arguing that transmedia storytelling presents a highly fractured fictional universe, with each form of media adding an additional layer of interpretation, the article calls attention to how the Scott Pilgrim franchise utilizes a narrative strategy commonly referred to as “magical realism,” which in the case of transmedia storytelling is perhaps better understood as a form of “virtual realism.” From this perspective, while admitting that the Scott Pilgrim fictional universe exhibits Canadian concerns over the role technologies play in the construction of identity, the author insists that the franchise also draws upon a broader internationally networked nostalgia for classic video games.
Infrared studies of deformation in semicrystalline polymers

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy was used to study molecular deformation processes in polymers as a function of stress, strain, time and temperature. Stress-induced frequency shifts were found to depend on temperature and morphology. Deformation of viscoelastic polypropylene was examined in terms of time dependent molecular stress distributions, orientation changes, conformational variations, and chain fracture. A tie chain length distribution model was used to quantitatively interpret the IR data. Molecular deformation processes of creep and stress relaxation were found to be opposite in nature, Observed long lifetimes of highly stressed chains suggest a reappraisal of existing fracture theories.
Nutritional Assessment of Children with Autism

Abstract Differences were investigated between dietary intake of children with autism and the recommendations of the Food Guide Pyramid (Pyramid) and kcals and protein levels of the RDA, and differences in subject anthropometric measurements from the 50 th percentile for the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) growth charts and data adapted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for boys of the same age. The subjects consisted of nine Caucasian boys with autism, aged 7-10 years. Measurements included height (HT), body weight (WT), weight for height (WT/HT), estimated percent body fat (BF) from calf and triceps skinfolds and mid-arm muscle area (MAMA). A four-day food record was completed by a parent of each child, assisted by the childs teacher, for each of three consecutive months. Single Sample t-tests were utilized in data analyses. Results revealed mean HT, 34 th percentile, mean WT, 54 th percentile, WT/HT, 71 st percentile (p=.002), and mean for MAMA, 48 th percentile. Mean BF was 18%±1.7, with a norm of 15%. Findings for dietary intake indicated subjects consumed a mean of 400±220 (p=.001) fewer kcals than the RDA (2000kcals). The RDA for protein is 28g/day and mean intake was 56g/day (p=.001). Food Guide Pyramid recommended servings were not met in the following groups: milk (mean 0.8±0.8 serving/day) (p=.0001) and vegetables (mean 0.1±0.3serving/day) (p=.0001). Major kcals were contributed by fat (mean 8.6±1.5servings/day) (p=.001). Boys with autism appear to have dietary intakes different than those recommended by the Pyramid and RDA with low kcals, high protein intake, low consumption of milk, vegetables and high consumption of fat. However, anthropometric measurements were close to the 50 th percentile except for greater WT/HT. The investigators suggest monitoring dietary intake and nutrition counseling for children with autism to prevent low or excess intake.
Bone mineral acquisition in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Objective To track bone mineral acquisition in adolescents with type 1 diabetes (DM). Study design Subjects were adolescents, ages 12 to 18 years, with DM (n = 42) and a healthy regional reference (n = 199). Measurements of tibia bone characteristics by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) and spine and whole body (WB) by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), anthropometrics, and lifestyle questionnaires were obtained during a 12-month period. Disease duration, insulin dose, renal function, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values for the previous 12 months were recorded. Results Body size and maturation were similar between groups. DM had lower tibia, spine, and WB bone characteristics but greater muscle mass (LBM) and lower bone mineral content (BMC)/LBM at baseline and 12 months. Annual gains for tibia cortical bone and WB BMC/LBM were lower and inversely related to HbA1c levels (R = −0.36 to −0.51), whereas spine area and density and WBLBM were greater and were predicted by pubertal-driven growth. Overall, the DM cohort had 8.5% less WB BMC/LBM, suggesting that bone mineral deposition was not adequately adapted to muscle gains. Conclusions Adolescents with type 1 diabetes continue to have smaller bone mass and bone size despite normal growth and maturation. Poor metabolic control appears to negatively influence bone mineral acquisition.
Parental Choices and Ethical Dilemmas Involving Disabilities: Special Education and the Problem of Deliberately Chosen Disabilities

Ethical issues regarding children with disabilities have long involved their treatment after they are born. These issues remain important, but children may be deliberately created with or without characteristics that are usually thought of as disabilities. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and related technologies that involve human reproduction will become more readily available and raise new issues about the nature of disability and treatment of it. Special educators will face new challenges when children's disabilities are deliberately created. Suggestions are provided for constraining reproductive choices and for providing special education.
Phonon exacerbated quantum interference effects in III-V nanowire transistors

In recent years, a great deal of attention has been focused on the development of quantum wire transistors as a means of extending Moore’s Law. Here we present, results of fully three-dimensional, self-consistent quantum mechanical device simulations of InAs tri-gate nanowire transistor (NWT). The effects of inelastic scattering have been included as real-space self-energy terms. We find that the position of dopant atoms in these devices can lead a reduction in the amount of scattering the carriers experience. We find that the combination of deeply buried dopant atoms and the high energy localization of polar optical phonon processes allow devices to recover their ballistic behavior even in the presence of strong inelastic phonon processes. However, we find that dopant atoms close to the source-channel interface cause severe quantum interference effects leading to significant performance reduction.
Perinatal mortality in diabetic patients undergoing antepartum fetal evaluation: a case–control study

Objective: To identify changing trends, if any, of fetal loss in diabetic patients undergoing antepartum fetal evaluation in a case-control study. Methods: Fetal assessment (non-stress test and/or biophysical profile) logbooks from January 1981 to June 1998 were reviewed and the patients with diabetes were identified. The study group comprised patients with pregnancy loss. Each case was matched by year of delivery and class of diabetes with four randomly selected controls with no pregnancy loss. All patients in both groups were at > 26 weeks' gestation. Results: Thirteen stillbirths and four neonatal deaths occurred in 1935 diabetic patients who underwent fetal evaluation. There was no significant difference in age, race, gravidity, parity, clinic or private service, or the type of delivery in the two groups. Losses were more likely (p < 0.001) to occur before 32 weeks, with birth weights < 2500 g, with a greater time interval from their last fetal evaluation, with poor glycemic control and with congenita...
Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Gynecologic Surgical Site Infections

Surgical site infections (SSIs) have a significant effect on patient care and medical costs. This article outlines the risks that lead to SSIs and the preventive measures, including antimicrobial prophylaxis, which decrease the incidence of infection. This article also reviews the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic SSIs.
Cloning of a second proopiomelanocortin cDNA from the pituitary of the sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus

A recent study on the pituitary of the sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus, resulted in the cloning of a cDNA that codes for the prohormone, proopiomelanocortin (POMC). This cDNA is designated sturgeon POMC A. Subsequent analysis of the sturgeon pituitary uncovered a second distinct POMC cDNA (sturgeon POMC B). In both sturgeon POMC cDNAs the open reading frame is 795 nucleotides in length. However, the two sturgeon POMC cDNAs differ at 26 amino acid positions in the opening frame. In addition, the 2 forms of POMC differ at 45 nucleotide positions within the open reading frame. The number and types of point mutations are compared in the 2 sturgeons POMC cDNAs, and the origin of the two POMC genes is discussed.
Climatology of the midnight temperature maximum phenomenon at Arequipa, Peru

[1] A study of the midnight temperature maximum (MTM) climatology has been made for the low-latitude station at Arequipa, Peru (16.2°S, 71.5°W) using Fabry-Perot measurements for the period 1997–2001. Examination of the Arequipa nighttime temperature data after removal of the nocturnal cooling (as represented by the semiempirical NRLMSISE-00 model) shows a Gaussian-like time dependence with amplitudes between 20 and 200 K centered on 0400–0600 UT. A typical value of 50 to 75 K was found for data averaged over the nights from late March to early October, cloudy skies preventing measurements during summer months (November–February). These data show the MTM activity to fluctuate sporadically throughout the austral winter. Also evident are large variations of the offset between the observed temperatures and the MSIS model, with individual nightly offsets between ±200 K. Averaging these offsets over all nights for any 1 year and for all 5 years reduces the offset to a value of ∼20 K. The observed time for the occurrence of the MTM peak amplitude exhibits a seasonal variation; during winter solstice the peak typically occurs between 0500 and 0700 UT, later than during the fall and spring equinoxes, when the peak occurs between 0300 and 0500 UT. The variation of the MTM amplitude with day number shows a weak semiannual oscillation with peak values of 150–200 K near equinoxes and a small secondary maximum of 50 to 70 K near the winter solstice. Examination of the variation of the yearly-averaged MTM amplitude between solar minimum and solar maximum show a slight trend featuring a ∼20 K reduction.
Interactive simulations as implicit support for guided-inquiry

We present the results of a study designed to provide insight into interactive simulation use during guided-inquiry activities in chemistry classes. The PhET Interactive Simulations project at the University of Colorado develops interactive simulations that utilize implicit – rather than explicit – scaffolding to support student learning through exploration and experimentation. In the study, 80 students in a General Chemistry class were given ten minutes to explore the PhET simulation Molecule Polarity in self-selected groups, with no instructions on how to interact with the simulation. Using mouse click data, audio recordings and clicker question responses, we investigated: students' ability to use the simulation by analyzing the extent to which they explored the simulation, the discussions students engaged in during simulation use, and student perceptions of simulation use. We found effective simulation use, with the 22 groups exploring an average of 18 of the 23 available features in Molecule Polarity. Sixty-four percent of student utterances were part of on-topic (polarity) discussion segments, with most off-topic discussions being intermittent and brief. Students largely found the simulation useful for their learning and experienced either brief or no frustration during sim exploration. These results indicate that students in large classes can use interactive simulations designed with implicit scaffolding through exploration, and can do so without frustration overwhelming the perception of value brought by the simulation use. This work suggests that implicitly scaffolded interactive simulations can provide environments that support guided-inquiry learning and channel students into productive inquiry while minimizing the need for explicit guidance.
Nanolayer Reactions in Aluminum-Metal Interfaces

Surface extended x-ray absorption fine structure (SEXAFS) measurements on the nanometer level were made for Al/M interfaces where M wa Cu or Ni. The samples were studied immediately after deposition and after heat treatments. Significant differences in interface reactions were observed depending on deposition direction (Cu on Al or Al on Cu) and the amount of mixing was also related to whether M was Cu or Ni. The SEXAFS measurements revealed that there were no detectable amounts of C or O present. One percent Zn was observed to be in the Al layers. The results obtained from the as-deposited interfaces correlate well with data obtained from buried interfaces of like element combinations. 7 refs., 2 figs.
Age-related changes in hematopoietic stem cell populations of a long-lived hybrid mouse.

Age-related changes in the number and concentration of pluripotential and unipotential hematopoietic stem cells in the femoral bone marrow and spleen of BC3F1 mice were investigated. Pluripotential stem cells were assayed by the spleen colony technique, and unipotential stem cells were determined by an agar cloning method and by erythropoietin responsiveness in polycythemic mice. Changes with senescence were observed in the concentration of both uni- and pluripotential stem cells in the bone marrow; the size of the stem cell compartment in the marrow did not change significantly with age. Also, a reduction in the seeding of transplanted spleen colony-forming units into the spleens of aged recipients was demonstrated. The implications of these findings for the kinetics of hematopoietic stem cell proliferation in aged animals are discussed.
Repair of mycotic aneurysm of the innominate artery with homograft tissue

Abstract The case of a 46-year-old drag addict who underwent repair of a mycotic aneurysm of the innominate artery with a 12-mm homograft is presented. The homograft was obtained from the descending thoracic position in a young child. Replacement of infected arteries with various artificial grafts risks recurrent infection and anastomotic disruption. The use of a homograft conduit in this case was successful in restoring the appropriate blood flow without infection. We suggest that the homograft conduit can be used in other areas with similar results.
Design and testing of a low-cost x-ray CCD camera for the HRC program and beyond

We have designed, built, and tested a low cost, flexible X- ray CCD camera for laboratory use to assist with the calibration of the Chandra x-ray Observatory High Resolution Camera (HRC). This CCD camera design will also serve as a prototype for future light opportunities. In this paper, we describe the design and performance of this camera, and present some sample data. For initial testing, we have purchased a commercially available EEV 30-11 CCD, but the camera can be modified to accommodate virtually any device in a minimal amount of time. We have achieved a readnoise of 3.5 electrons, and an energy resolution of 135 eV at Mn K(alpha) , with the EEV 30-11 device. This camera will be used extensively in the near future for HRC related calibrations.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Myelin stains reveal an anatomical framework for the representation of the digits in somatosensory area 3b of macaque monkeys.

Brain sections cut parallel to the cortical surface revealed myelin-light septa that isolated representations of the digits and parts of the face, teeth, and tongue in area 3b of adult and infant macaque monkeys. The widths of the bands of cortex representing individual digits, as measured by the distances between isolating septa, were proportionally similar in infant (2–4 week) and adult monkeys. However, the bands for digits 1–3 were somewhat narrower in infant than adult monkeys. There was little variation in absolute widths across individuals in the infant or adult groups, or between left and right hemispheres of the same group. Widths for digits 1–4 progressively decreased. The results suggest that these isomorphs of digits emerge in prenatal or early postnatal development and typical variations in postnatal hand use have little impact on subsequent development. As the hand representation in somatosensory cortex of monkeys may be significantly altered after the partial loss of peripheral nerve inputs, the physiological representation is not completely constrained by the isolating septa. Instead, the septa may serve as a persistent marker of normal organization in studies of cortical reorganization. J. Comp. Neurol. 477:172–187, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Variation in salt tolerance of alfalfa

Abstract Identification of crop germplasm tolerant to relatively high levels of salinity will allow more extensive use of lands characterized as marginal due to salt accumulation. Two experiments were conducted to identify and evaluate germination salt tolerance in various alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) cultivars, breeding lines, introductions, and germplasms (populations). In the first experiment, 229 alfalfa populations from North Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the United States were germinated in sodium chloride (NaCl) solutions with concentrations of 0, 44, 88, 132, or 176 mM (10 mM = 640 mgL−1 = 0.1 Sm−1 = 1.0 mmhos cm−1) at 25°C. When expressed as a proportion of the no‐salt control, significant germination differences were observed in the 229 populations. Twenty‐nine populations that exhibited the highest germination at 176 mM in the first experiment were retested in NaCl concentrations of 0, 44, 88, 132, 176, 220, 264, 308, or 352 mM. The 29 populations differed noticeably when treated with NaCl...
pH Titratable Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide for Improved Nanoparticle Accumulation in Acidic Tumor Microenvironments

A wide variety of nanoparticle platforms are being developed for the diagnosis and treatment of malignancy. While many of these are passively targeted or rely on receptor–ligand interactions, metabolically directed nanoparticles provide a complementary approach. It is known that both primary and secondary events in tumorigenesis alter the metabolic profile of developing and metastatic cancers. One highly conserved metabolic phenotype is a state of up-regulated glycolysis and reduced use of oxidative phosphorylation, even when oxygen tension is not limiting. This metabolic shift, termed the Warburg effect, creates a “hostile” tumor microenvironment with increased levels of lactic acid and low extracellular pH. In order to exploit this phenomenon and improve the delivery of nanoparticle platforms to a wide variety of tumors, a pH-responsive iron oxide nanoparticle was designed. Specifically, glycol chitosan (GC), a water-soluble polymer with pH-titratable charge, was conjugated to the surface of superparama...
Optical polarization position angle versus radio structure axis in Seyfert galaxies

Optical polarization position angles tend to align with large-scale radio structure in low polarization quasars1, and they tend to align with or be perpendicular to the radio structure in radio galaxies2. In some cases active object emission lines are polarized like the continuum, so the polarization is probably caused by scattering (ref. 3 and R.R.J.A., in preparation). Thus, the polarization alignments indicate the geometrical distribution of scatterers in those cases and so provide information on the matter distribution in the innermost regions. In a new interpretation of the polarization of the Seyfert 2 galaxy NGC1068 (ref. 4), it is noted that the optical polarization of that object is perpendicular to the inner radio contours, while the polarization of the Seyfert 1 galaxy NGC4151 is parallel to the associated radio axis. It is speculated that these are prototypical of two polarization classes of Seyferts analogous to the perpendicular and parallel radio galaxy groups. I show here that this is indeed the case: all Seyfert 1 galaxies in this sample have roughly parallel polarization and all Seyfert 2 galaxies have roughly perpendicular polarizations. These alignment effects can be interpreted as being due to thin and thick scattering disks, respectively, surrounding the continuum sources. This would represent a fundamental difference between the two types of Seyfert galaxies.
Electrostatic effects on polynucleotide transitions. I. Behavior at neutral pH.

An approximate analytical expression for the electrostatic free energy of a polynucleo-tide in any of its possible ordered or random conformations is derived by integration of the screened-Coulomb potential energy function over all charge pairs in the structure. The electrostatic free energy of any form is found to be a linear function of the logarithm of the monovalent counterion concentration, in the range of low salt concentrations. Hence the electrostatic free energy difference between ordered and disordered forms in a polynucleotide structural transition is a linear function of the logarithm of the monovalent counterion concentration. A free energy balance applied to a two-state model for the transition then yields a linear dependence of the transition temperature Tm upon the logarithm of the counterion concentration. Calculation of the quantity dTm/d log M, where M is the monovalent counterion concentration, shows it to be a characteristic constant for a given transition, with a magnitude and sign proportional to the charge density difference between the ordered and disordered forms. Use of any one of several alternate, simple assumptions yields predicted dTm/d log M values in good agreement with experimental data for various polynucleotide transitions.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Magnetic Refrigerators

An analysis of a magnetic refrigeration cycle was carried out. The system consists of heat exchangers and beds of magnetic materials. The analysis considered that the system operates near room temperature in a magnetic field between 1 and 5 T and uses 3 kg of gadolinium (Gd) spheres packed in two magnetocaloric beds. The heat transfer fluid is water. The beds are periodically magnetized and demagnetized and the fluid flows are arranged to meet the cycle requirements. Sensitivity analysis has been performed. Cooling power, magnetic field, and temperature span trends are simulated. The cooling and heating effects were estimated based on the magnetocaloric effect of gadolinium. Findings indicate that the higher the magnetic field is the higher the cooling power with the same temperature span. It was also observed that the cooling power decreases with the increase in the temperature span for various magnetic fields. COP vs. temperature span was also considered. The trend indicates that COPactual / COPCarnot decreases with an increase in the temperature span. These trends agreed with those shown by experimental data.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Red photoluminescence emission of laser dye doped DNA and PMMA

DNA and PPMA were doped with the laser dye sulforhodamine 640. Red emission was observed from both dye-doped DNA and PMMA upon photoexcitation. Photoluminescence (PL) emission was studied as a function of dye concentration. The maximum PL intensity of dye in DNA host material is at least 17 times higher than that in PMMA. The DNA host shows higher doping concentration without optical quenching than PMMA does.
The importance of observation versus process error in analyses of global ungulate populations

Population abundance data vary widely in quality and are rarely accurate. The two main components of error in such data are observation and process error. We used Bayesian state space models to estimate the observation and process error in time-series of 55 globally distributed populations of two species, Cervus elaphus (elk/red deer) and Rangifer tarandus (caribou/reindeer). We examined variation among populations and species in the magnitude of estimates of error components and density dependence using generalized linear models. Process error exceeded observation error in 75% of all populations, and on average, both components of error were greater in Rangifer than in Cervus populations. Observation error differed significantly across the different observation methods, and predation and time-series length differentially affected the error components. Comparing the Bayesian model results to traditional models that do not separate error components revealed the potential for misleading inferences about sources of variation in population dynamics.
The Effects of Precipitation on the Surface Temperature and Airflow over the Island of Hawaii

Abstract The effects of precipitation on the surface temperature and airflow over the island of Hawaii, which are not considered in previous studies, are presented. It is found that clouds and rains can modify the surface thermal fields and result in changes in the intensity of diurnal circulations and the timing of wind shifts from downslope (upslope) to upslope (downslope) flow at the surface in the early morning (late afternoon). The onset of upslope (downslope) flow at the surface is closely related to the virtual temperature anomalies on the slope surface from the adjacent environment for both the rain and dry cases. Prior to sunrise, the rain cases feature higher surface temperatures in contrast to the dry cases because of a more extensive cloud cover, which reduces the longwave radiation, and the precipitating downdrafts, which bring the warmer air above the nocturnal inversion to the surface. Hence, at the surface a weaker (stronger) downslope flow is observed for the rain (dry) cases, which is co...
Incremental growth of a shallow hydraulic fracture at a waste remediation site, Oakbrook, Illinois from inversion of elevation changes

Abstract Elastic dislocation theory in a half-space is used together with a geophysical inverse technique to determine the geometry and incremental growth of a shallow (∼3 m ) hydraulic fracture designed for facilitating remediation of contaminated unconsolidated sediments at Oakbrook, Illinois using the elevation changes monitored during the experiment. It is determined that the hydrofracture strikes N69°E and dips 25°NW, matching well with the observations throughout the split spoon sampling following the experiment. The fracture opening is highly non-uniform. The fracture front propagated at a varying speed. The growth rate of the hydrofracture decreases with time, indicating an essentially stable fracturing process. The resolving power of the data is closely dependent on the distribution of the observation stations. Sources near the observation stations are better resolved, both in length and amplitude, than are those away from the stations. The resolution length is in the order of 1–2 m.
Diesel Engine Energy Balance Study Operating on Diesel and Biodiesel Fuels

The use of alternative fuels is important to address the issues of reducing dependence on unstable petroleum supplies, and reducing harmful emissions that can lead to global warming. This paper focuses on a comparative energy balance on a four cylinder turbocharged diesel engine operating on diesel and biodiesel fuels. The diesel fuel tested was a standard No. 2 diesel fuel and the biodiesel used was 100 percent soy methyl ester (B100) supplied by Peter Cremer North America. Steady-state tests were run to experimentally determine how input energy in the form of fuel was appropriated throughout the engine. The transfer of energy was measured for losses to the engine coolant and exhaust, usable power output, as well as minor and unaccounted losses. Temperature measurements were taken using type-K thermocouples, the power and torque outputs were measured with an AE 250 eddy current dynamometer, and the fuel consumption rate was measured using a scale and digital stop watch. The coolant and air flow rates were also monitored with respective flow meters. The laboratory environment was monitored to insure operator safety as well as consistent operating and atmospheric conditions. An energy balance algorithm was constructed to analyze logged data from the experiments and insure that the proper amount of readings was taken to insure accurate results. The results showed that biodiesel and diesel fuel have almost the same energetic performance. The nominal values of the energy distribution showed that input energy from biodiesel was distributed 37.4%, 31.1%, and 29.6% to the major areas of coolant, exhaust, and power output, respectively. Similarly the input energy from diesel was distributed 37.5%, 31.4%, and 29.2% to the major areas of coolant, exhaust, and power output, respectively. The respective differences in those nominal values between the biodiesel and diesel fuel are −0.1%, −0.3%, and 0.4%. The uncertainty analysis showed that there was not a statistically significant difference in the energy distribution. The results also showed a strong correlation between the ambient air entering the engine and many of the other measured temperatures. Conclusions about the laboratory environment and testing procedures have been made from analysis of the collected data. The energy balance study outlined in this paper helped validate the overall engine diagnostic testing system. It also helped establish guidelines and procedures for future testing because this testing platform will be used for future work in performance and emissions testing of algal-based biodiesel which is the program’s overall goal.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Electrokinetically integrated microfluidic isolation and amplification of biomolecule-and cell-binding nucleic acids

This paper presents electrokinetically based microfluidic integration of isolation and amplification of target-binding nucleic acids. A microfluidic device is used that consists of two microchambers for nucleic acid isolation and amplification connected by a microchannel filled with agarose gel. In the device, target-binding DNA strands are isolated and amplified on surfaces while gel-based electrophoresis is used to transfer the strands between chambers, eliminating the need for complicated flow control components. Experimental results show that the device has the potential to rapidly isolate and amplify nucleic acids in random mixtures against a variety of biological targets, such as biomolecules and cells, with increased binding affinity.
Antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis and risk for tubal pregnancy

We performed a case-control study of the effect of exposure to Chlamydia trachomatis on the risk for tubal pregnancy. Sixty women with tubal pregnancies and 60 matched control women with normal second-trimester intrauterine pregnancies were studied. Cases were more likely than controls to have detectable antichlamydial IgG antibodies (82% versus 58%, p
Local Industry Agglomeration and New Business Activity

New businesses are highly involved in innovative activity, which enhances worker productivity and leads to increased economic output. This paper investigates the effects of industry concentration on the incidence of new business openings in the 5,504 Maine county-industries. Empirical findings indicate that new business activity increases with the number of incumbent establishments in a county-industry and its concentration level relative to the U.S. economy. Model simulations show that raising county-industries, with no initial industry presence, to concentration levels similar to that of the industry in the U.S. economy results in a 1.7 to 8.9 percent increase in the expected number of business openings over a three-year period. Empirical results also suggest that industry clusters comprised of young and small establishments are more conducive to new business formation than clusters made up of mature and large companies.