cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Umbral boundaries, convection, and the depth of sunspots

The boundary between the umbra and penumbra of a sunspot is consistently observed to be very sharp, on the order of 500 km. Approximating the sunspot as a static region in a homogeneous medium with a radiative surface, temperature distributions resulting from a variety of convective motions exterior to the sunspot are calculated. The calculations suggest that, for the exterior convection to produce the observed boundary, the maximum depth of the region of inhibited convection below a sunspot umbra is on the order of 103 km.
Molecular biology of calcium channels

The molecular biology of Ca 2+ channels has its origins in the biochemical characterization of the skeletal muscle dihydropyridine receptor. These studies established that the dihydropyridine receptor/channel complex was a multi-subunit complex composed of α 1 (the ion-conducting subunit), and smaller accessory subunits (α 2 , β, and γ). These subunits were purified, sequenced, cloned, and expressed. Cloning of these cDNAs provided the probes to discover the molecular diversity of Ca 2+ channels. To date (April 1995), genes for six α 1 S, four βs, one α 2 , and one γ have been cloned. Preliminary classification schemes divided native calcium channels into low voltage-activated (T-type) and high voltage-activated types: L-type, dihydropyridine-sensitive; and N-type, ω-conotoxin GVIA-sensitive. The development of new toxins has led to the further subclassification of high voltage-activated channels to: P-type, which is blocked by ω-agatoxin-IVa from the funnel-web spider Agelenopsis aperta ; Q-type, which is blocked by ω-conotoxin-MVIIC from the marine snail Conus magus ; and R-type, which is resistant to most toxins (DB Wheeler, A Randall, and RW Tsien, Science 264:107–111, 1994). Expression studies with cloned α 1 S have proven that this subunit determines the voltage and pharmacological sensitivity of the channel. This should allow us to classify the cloned α 1 S in terms of their type. Unfortunately these properties are affected by the choice of expression system, and the subunit composition of the channel. Despite these complications, the six α 1 S have been classified as follows: three α 1 S (α 1S , α 1C , and α 1D ) belong to the L-type (dihydropyridine-sensitive); α 1B is an N-type; α 1A is a P-type although it has also been classified as Q-type; and α 1E , which does not display any distinctive pharmacology, has been called an R-type (resistant). We will review the cloning, classification, tissue distribution, and functional expression of these α 1 subunits and the accessory subunits.
Agarose derivatives for purification of protein by affinity chromatography.

AFFINITY chromatography1–5, which in principle is related to the use of immunoadsorbants for the purification of antibodies6, exploits the reversible and specific interactions of ligands with macromolecules. Purification is affected by chromatographing the protein to be purified on a column containing an insoluble matrix to which the specific ligand is covalently attached. Beaded agarose (‘Sepharose’) is a useful insoluble support which has recently been used successfully in the selective purification of enzymes1–5,7,9, antibodies and antigens10–15, chemically synthesized peptides16,17, thyroxine binding serum proteins18, and in the study of the interaction of insulin with cell membranes19. In these studies the ligands or peptides were attached through their amino groups after activation of ‘Sepharose’ with cyanogen bromide20,21.
An enema formulation of alicaforsen, an antisense inhibitor of intercellular adhesion molecule-1, in the treatment of chronic, unremitting pouchitis.

Summary Background : Pouchitis is the major long-term complication of ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis. The incidence of pouchitis is as high as 50% several years after surgery. Two-thirds of pouchitis patients suffer recurrence. Of those who recur, one-quarter suffer from chronic, unremitting pouchitis. Current treatments for this disorder are disappointing. Aim : To determine whether a topically administered enema formulation of ISIS 2302 (alicaforsen), an antisense inhibitor of intercellular adhesion molecule-1, can improve the clinical symptoms, endoscopic mucosal appearance and mucosal histology in patients with chronic, unremitting pouchitis, a disorder in which this molecule is over-expressed. Methods : In an open-label, uncontrolled study, 12 patients with chronic, unremitting pouchitis were treated with 240 mg alicaforsen antisense enema nightly for 6 weeks. Clinical evaluation and endoscopy were performed at baseline and at weeks 3, 6 and 10. Pouchoscopy with biopsy was carried out at baseline and at weeks 6 and 10. The primary end-point was the reduction from baseline of the Pouchitis Disease Activity Index (PDAI) at week 6. Secondary end-points included the PDAI at week 10. Safety was evaluated by analysing the adverse events, vital signs and laboratory parameters. Results : After 6 weeks of nightly alicaforsen enema, a statistically significant (n = 12, P = 0.001) reduction in the PDAI from baseline (11.42) to week 6 (6.83) was observed. Mean reductions in the endoscopy sub-score from baseline (5.25) to week 3 (3.08) and week 6 (2.58) were statistically significant (P = 0.0039 and P = 0.0005, respectively). The mean reductions in clinical symptom sub-score from baseline (3.75) to week 3 (2.33) and week 6 (2.25) were also statistically significant (P = 0.0156 and P = 0.0117, respectively). Ten of the 12 patients achieved a mucosal appearance score of 0 or 1 at endoscopy. Five of the 12 patients (42%) had a non-statistically significant decrease in the histology component of their PDAI from baseline to week 6. By week 6, seven of the 12 patients (58%) were in remission, as defined by PDAI < 7, with a mean decrease from baseline in PDAI score of six points. The alicaforsen enemas were well tolerated and no serious side-effects were noted. Conclusions : Antisense enema to intercellular adhesion molecule-1 is safe and well tolerated. In an open-label trial, it appeared to improve the PDAI score, clinical symptoms and endoscopic mucosal appearance. It may also improve the histology. In the light of the responses observed in this trial, a randomized, placebo-controlled trial is warranted.
Moisture damage in South Carolina housing

In the results of a 6000 homeowner/occupant survey in 16 South Carolina counties in January 1989, 69% of respondents reported moisture problems in their home. The results obtained by Professor Gardner's team are particularly significant in relation to the correct use of insulation and ventilation, similar results have been found in the UK.
Receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 deficiency inhibits immune cell infiltration and attenuates organ injury in sepsis.

Introduction Sepsis is defined as a systemic hyper-inflammatory immune response, with a subsequent immune-suppressive phase, which leads to multiple organ dysfunction and late lethality. Receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3)-dependent necrosis is implicated in driving tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)- and sepsis-induced mortality in mice. However, it is unknown if RIPK3 deficiency has any impact on immune cell trafficking, which contributes to organ damage in sepsis.
Local lattice distortions and thermal transport in perovskite manganites

Measurements of thermal conductivity versus temperature and magnetic field are reported for perovskite manganites that exhibit ferromagnetic (FM), charge-ordering (CO), antiferromagnetic, and/or structural phase transitions. The data reveal a dominant lattice contribution to the heat conductivity with $\ensuremath{\kappa}\ensuremath{\sim}1\ensuremath{-}2$ W/mK near room temperature. The rather low values, implying a phonon mean free path on the order of a lattice spacing, are shown to correlate with static local distortions of the ${\mathrm{MnO}}_{6}$ octahedra. Modifications of the local structure are responsible for abrupt anomalies in the zero-field \ensuremath{\kappa} at the FM, CO, and structural transitions, and for colossal magnetothermal resistance near the FM transition.
Abstract 3341: TGFβ/ TNFα-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition generates breast cancer stem cells with a claudin-low phenotype

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Breast cancer recurrence is believed to be caused by a potently tumorigenic sub-population of cancer cells possessing stem cell attributes of resistance to chemotherapy, radiation and other forms of treatment. Recently, we and others have reported the generation of breast cancer stem cell (BCSC) characteristics by inducers of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Both EMT and acquisition of BCSC properties are therefore important steps in cancer progression, although the physiological process by which BCSCs arise in vivo remains unclear. We show here that exposure to TGFβ and TNFα induces a stable BCSC phenotype, characterized by self-renewal, greatly increased tumorigenicity, and increased resistance to oxaliplatin, etoposide and paclitaxel. We further found that the TGFβ/TNFα-derived cells showed downregulated expression of Claudins 3, 4 and 7 and the luminal marker KRT18, demonstrating a shift to the claudin low molecular subtype, a recently identified breast cancer subtype characterized by the expression of mesenchymal and stem cell-associated markers and correlation with poor prognosis. Furthermore, pathway analyses of the generated BCSCs showed deregulation of a number of breast cancer-associated genes and pathways including inflammatory cytokine and receptors, chemokines, homeobox, hedgehog, notch and metastases genes. These results confirm the role of EMT and BCSCs in resistance of breast cancer to conventional chemotherapy and identify novel target genes and pathways for validation as potential therapeutic targets. Our demonstration that stable BCSCs can be produced by specific microenvironmental signals also provides a valuable tool for studying cancer stem cells, as well as a means for screening potential cancer drugs for efficacy of targeting cancer stem cells to prevent recurrence. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3341. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-3341
IBM Software Development Leveraging Geographically Distributed Teams - The Interactive Solution Marketplace 2.0 (ISM) Case Study

In recent years IBM Global Services has leveraged the strengths of a global and skilled workforce; embraced collaboration and adhered to industry and IBM best practices to respond rapidly and efficiently to customer needs. The Interactive Solutions Marketplace (ISM) system is an example of how IBM utilizes geographically distributed teams to successfully deliver a complex software solution on time, on budget with demonstrated high quality. We describe four factors in its success.
Hyperhemolysis during the evolution of uncomplicated acute painful episodes in patients with sickle cell anemia

BACKGROUND: Some patients with sickle cell anemia (SS) experience significant decrease in their hemoglobin (Hb) level and significant increase in reticulocyte count during the progression of uncomplicated acute painful episodes. These changes have been attributed to, but not proven, hyperhemolysis. This study provides evidence of hyperhemolysis in this group of patients. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Hospitalized patients who met the above criteria were identified and followed prospectively, and the measures of red blood cell (RBC) survival were determined. The latter included 1) laboratory measures of hemolysis: Hb level, reticulocyte count, nucleated RBC count, RBC distribution width (RDW), total bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and aspartate transaminase (AST); 2) determination of RBC survival in vivo by the 51Cr method in selected patients; and 3) the determination of the RBC Hb:reticulocyte Hb ratio. Baseline values of these measures were also obtained and compared to the crisis data. RESULTS: During the evolution of the painful episode in the selected patients, there was a significant increase in total bilirubin, LDH, AST, nucleated RBC count, and RDW that are indicative of hyperhemolysis. There was a significant decrease in RBC Hb:reticulocyte Hb and 51Cr RBC survival, which is diagnostic of hyperhemolysis. CONCLUSION: Together, the data indicate that hyperhemolysis occurs during uncomplicated acute painful episodes in some patients with SS. The presence of free plasma Hb, consequent to hyperhemolysis, reduces nitric oxide bioavailability, promotes endothelial dysfunction, and contributes to the development of pulmonary hypertension and vasoocclusion.
Evidence for an inflammatory process in age-related macular degeneration gains new support

A ge-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a sight-threatening eye disease that affects large numbers of the human population over the age of 65. It is particularly prevalent in European countries and in the United States, which has a large population of European descent. However, its incidence is increasing in Japan, as well, for reasons that are not clear (1). Currently, it is estimated that 1.75 million individuals suffer from this disease in the United States, and 7 million are said to be “at risk” (2). The emotional and socioeconomic impact of AMD is large because of reading and driving impairment caused by this disease, which primarily affects central (straight on) rather than peripheral (side) vision. The disease involves the macula of the retina, a region ≈6 mm in diameter that lies within the central axis of vision. The macula has an abundance of densely packed, specialized neurons called photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) that receive the visual stimulus and initiate a complicated cascade of biochemical and ionic events (phototransduction) that begin the visual process. A stratum of cells called the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), resting like a single layer of paving stones on a bed of extracellular matrix called Bruch's membrane, separates the photoreceptor cells from their blood supply in the choroid (middle layer) of the eye wall. It is within the RPE layer and Bruch's membrane that the mischief leading to AMD is thought to begin. Risk factors for AMD are well established from epidemiologic studies (3). In addition to advanced age, the risk factors include ocular pigmentation, dietary factors, a positive family history for AMD, high blood pressure, and smoking. Insights into the etiology of AMD have been slow in development because of the late onset of the disease. However, recent access to the human genomic sequence has …
The challenge of human trafficking and contemporary slavery

The social professions are increasingly becoming aware of the growth of a “new slavery” in which millions of people, including children, are held in debt bondage or other enslavement. Modern slavery has emerged over the past three decades, facilitated by the globalization of industry and the development of sex tourism. This paper summarizes contemporary global slavery and trafficking, identifies risk factors, and presents what can be done to prevent and eradicate it.
Progress and prospects for the development of computer-generated actors for military simulation: part I-Introduction and background

The development of computer-generated synthetic environments, also called distributed virtual environments, for military simulation relies heavily upon computer-generated actors (CGAs) to provide accurate behaviors at reasonable cost so that the synthetic environments are useful, affordable, complex, and realistic. Unfortunately, the pace of synthetic environment development and the level of desired CGA performance continue to rise at a much faster rate than CGA capability improvements, This insatiable demand for realism in CGAs for synthetic environments arises from the growing understanding of the significant role that modeling ane simulation can play in a variety of venues. These uses include training, analysis, procurement decisions, mission rehearsal, doctrine development, force-level and task-level training, information assurance, cyberwarfare, force structure analysis, sustainability analysis, life cycle costs analysis, material management, infrastructure analysis, and many others. In these and other uses of military synthetic environments, computer-generated actors play a central role because they have the potential to increase the realism of the environment while also reducing the cost of operating the environment, The progress made in addressing the technical challenges that must be overcome to realize effective and realistic CGAs for military simulation environments and the technical areas that should be the focus of future work are the subject of this series of papers, which survey the technologies and progress made in the construction and use of CGAs In this, the first installment in the series of three papers, we introduce the topic of computer-generated actors and issues related to their performance and fidelity and other background information for this research area as related co military simulation. We also discuss CGA reasoning system techniques and architectures.
Photoactivation of hypericin generates singlet oxygen in mitochondria and inhibits succinoxidase.

— Photosensitized inhibition of mitochondrial succinoxidase by hypericin was measured in vitro and found to be drug-dose, light-dose, and wavelength dependent. Singlet oxygen generation, monitored using the singlet oxygen trap tetramethylethylene, and oxygen consumption in isolated mitochondria sensitized by hypericin were also light-dose and wavelength dependent. Unequivocal evidence for the generation of singlet oxygen was obtained using kinetic isotope ratios of products from the reaction between singlet oxygen and geminally deuterated tetramethylethylene. An action spectrum for the inhibition of succinoxidase was measured at wavelengths between 400 and 700 nm and found to parallel the recorded visible absorption spectrum of hypericin in isolated mitochondria. The greatest singlet oxygen generation, oxygen consumption, and succinoxidase inhibition occurred with white light or 600 nm irradiation. These data are consistent with a type II singlet-oxygen-mediated mechanism for hypericin induced photosensitized inhibition of mitochondrial succinoxidase.
Heliotropic orbits at oblate asteroids: balancing solar radiation pressure and J2 perturbations

The combined effect of significant solar radiation pressure and $$J_2$$ perturbations on spacecraft orbits is investigated using both singly and doubly-averaged disturbing potentials with the Lagrange Planetary Equations. The resulting dynamics are applied to a spacecraft around an oblate asteroid. Several Sun-frozen families of orbits are identified using the singly-averaged potential, including two new families of orbits and a previously-discovered equatorial heliotropic orbit family. Families of both stable and unstable Sun-frozen orbits are mapped and characterized in the singly-averaged case. In addition, a heliotropic constraint is implemented to locate heliotropic orbits out of the equatorial plane using a constrained, doubly-averaged potential. Dynamic bounds for these 3D heliotropic orbits are shown to have an inclination limit of approximately 46 degrees for oblate bodies, and this limit is independent of the value of $$J_2$$ and radiation parameters. The resulting heliotropic and related periodic families of orbits are good candidates to consider for low-altitude science orbits around small oblate bodies with low or near-180 degree obliquity like Bennu, the target for the OSIRIS-REx mission.
Some effects of sub-lethal X-irradiation on reproduction and development in two strains of larval Taenia crassiceps

Abstract The generation times were determined for two larval strains of Taenia crassiceps. The aberrant strain (ORF) had a generation time (generation time = time from inoculation to initial bud production) of 23 days while for the normal (KBS) strain it was 32 days. Exposure to 10,000 R of X-irradiation of ORF larvae resulted in a significant stimulation of reproductive potential. Reproductive potential of first and second generation progeny of the irradiated ORF larvae paralleled that of non-irradiated ORF cysticerci, indicating an ephemeral effect of radiation. Doses of 10,000 R had no apparent reproductive or morphologic effect on KBS larvae.
Detailed Assessment of Stomal Incontinence After Malone Antegrade Continence Enema: Development of a New Grading Scale

Purpose: The Malone antegrade continence enema procedure improves quality of life for patients with bowel dysfunction. Stomal leakage has been reported, although no objective scale describes this type of incontinence. The value of cecal imbrication has not been fully elucidated on a large scale.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed pediatric patients who underwent Malone antegrade continence enema by a single surgeon between 2000 and 2010. Detailed information regarding degree and frequency of stomal incontinence was longitudinally recorded and analyzed. A classification system was developed, with grade 0 defined as no stomal incontinence, grade 1 a drop at the stoma or spotting on clothes 1 time or less per month, grade 2 spotting on clothing 2 to 4 times per month and grade 3 any leakage greater than 4 times per month.Results: The Malone antegrade continence enema procedure was laparoscopic nonimbricated in 51 patients, open nonimbricated in 16 and open imbricated in 12. Mean followup was 3...
Reducing Steep Time by Adding Lactic Acid During Countercurrent Steeping of Corn with Different Initial Moisture Contents

ABSTRACT Reducing corn steep time by adding lactic acid instead of relying on in situ fermentation was studied. Corn at two initial moisture levels (15 and 20%) was steeped for 18 hr in a countercurrent steep system. The initial SO2 target concentration in steepwater was 2,000 or 3,000 ppm, while the initial lactic acid concentration in steepwater was 0, 0.28, or 0.55%. Adding lactic acid under all steeping conditions decreased steepwater pH, accelerated SO2 absorption, and increased the amount of solids released from corn. Adding lactic acid during steeping also increased the first grind slurry density and made germ skimming easier than when no lactic acid was added. Starch yields for the hybrid used in this study under all steep conditions were comparable to those from 24-hr steeping, except when steeping corn with an initial moisture content of 15% in ≈2,000 ppm of SO2 alone. For the 20% moisture corn, adding lactic acid to fresh steepwater significantly improved the starch yield at ≈2,000 ppm of SO2 f...
Online Grading of Calculations in General Chemistry Laboratory Write-ups

In the past, there were frequently complaints about the grading of laboratory reports in our laboratory chemistry courses. This article discussed the implementation of an online submission of laboratory acquired data using LON-CAPA (The Learning Online Network with Computer-Assisted Personalized Approach), which is an open source management and assessment system. The students input their data and calculation results, after which the submitted values are automatically graded, with the grading criteria developed by the instructor along with the option of awarding partial credit. The Post-Lab LON-CAPA showed several advantages. An overall improvement of student laboratory participation was noted; this benefit was attributed to increased accountability since the students are also graded on the quality of their data. For instructors and teaching assistants, online submission reduces the time spent grading, offers a more accurate and consistent grading scheme and more attention can now be given to the other par...
The degradation of alpha-aminoadipic acid in guinea pig liver homogenate.

In continuation of our study of the metabolism of L-lysine, α-aminoadipic acid, which is formed from lysine in guinea pig liver homogenate (1), was synthesized with C14 in the e-position. The metabolism of the latter compound was followed by search for the radioactive tracer among the probable metabolic products. Two have been identified, α-ketoadipic and glutaric acids.
Terahertz sensing of corneal hydration

An indicator of ocular health is the hydrodyanmics of the cornea. Many corneal disorders deteriorate sight as they upset the normal hydrodynamics of the cornea. The mechanisms include the loss of endothelial pump function of corneal dystophies, swelling and immune response of corneal graft rejection, and inflammation and edema, which accompany trauma, burn, and irritation events. Due to high sensitivity to changes of water content in materials, a reflective terahertz (300 GHz and 3 THz) imaging system could be an ideal tool to measure the hydration level of the cornea. This paper presents the application of THz technology to visualize the hydration content across ex vivo porcine corneas. The corneas, with a thickness variation from 470 - 940 µm, were successfully imaged using a reflective pulsed THz imaging system, with a maximum SNR of 50 dB. To our knowledge, no prior studies have reported on the use of THz in measuring hydration in corneal tissues or other ocular tissues. These preliminary findings indicate that THz can be used to accurately sense hydration levels in the cornea using a pulsed, reflective THz imaging system.
The Grading of Cultural Relics in Chinese Law

Legal systems which triage protection to cultural relics based on a relic grading system have been adopted by several countries. This article examines the implementation of such a relic grading framework by the People's Republic of China. The current state of the law is summarized, and a recent criminal trial is described to illustrate the role the grading system plays within the law. The factors involved in defining the grades of cultural relics are then discussed in context of a cultural relic structural framework, with emphasis to both the state values that they serve and their ability to promote the objective of cultural property protection. The analysis highlights the problems and general considerations with the use of relic grading systems as a means to protect a large number of relics with finite resources.
Immediate loading of maxillary and mandibular implant-supported fixed complete dentures: a 1- to 10-year retrospective study

This study evaluated the success rates of 50 full-arch maxillary and/or mandibular implant-supported fixed complete dentures. After a mean follow-up time of 42.1 months, 269 implants remained in function, which corresponded to cumulative implant success rates of 85.2% and an absolute success rate of 90.6% (269/297 implants). This study suggested that higher implant failure rates might be associated with a dental history of bruxism (29.3%) vs no history of bruxism (4.6%) and surgeons with limited experience (≤5 years; 12.2%) vs surgeons with experience (2.4%).
The role of cosmetics in attributions about sexual harassment

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of cosmetics use on attributions concerning the likelihood of provoking sexual harassment and of being sexually harassed. Subjects were 85 female and 76 male undergraduate volunteers. The study was a 3×2 between-subjects design with three levels of cosmetics use (heavy, moderate, no cosmetics) and two levels of sex of subject (male, female). Each subject viewed one of three colored photographs of a model wearing either heavy, moderate, or no cosmetics, and then indicated how likely the model was to provoke sexual harassment and to be sexually harassed. Data were analyzed using analyses of variance and the Newman-Keuls test. When the model wore heavy cosmetics, she was rated as more likely to provoke sexual harassment than when she wore moderate cosmetics. Similarly, when the model wore moderate cosmetics, she was rated as significantly more likely to provoke sexual harassment than when she was not wearing cosmetics. When the model wore either heavy or moderate cosmetics, she was also rated as more likely to be sexually harassed than when she did not wear cosmetics. In addition, male subjects rated the model as more likely to provoke and to be sexually harassed than did female subjects. Results are discussed in terms of sex role spillover.
Macrocognition: A Theory of Distributed Minds and Collective Intentionality

The theses of extended cognition and distributed mentality challenge common understandings of what cognition is and how it explains behavior. But arguments for these theses differ importantly. Argu...
Stabilizing the response of Pd/Ni alloy films to hydrogen with Ti adhesion layers

We have studied catalytic thin film resistors made from a Pd and Ni alloy, and propose a method for dramatically reducing the drift of the measured resistance. The resistances of Pd films increase monotonically when exposed to hydrogen, however a stable baseline is difficult to achieve and alpha to beta phase transitions result in hysteresis. It is known that at high hydrogen concentrations, the Pd film cracks and delaminates, however long-term exposures to low concentrations of hydrogen can also result in delaminations. Studies using Pd/Ni alloys show that the phase transition can be suppressed. High temperature anneals in 2 % hydrogen, and the addition of a Ti adhesion layer is shown to reduce drift. Usually long term studies on films are conducted in an ordinary air (oxidizing) atmosphere, however, we report here on studies carried out in a reducing atmosphere of 0.1% hydrogen in nitrogen for 6 months on two sensor structures, field effect transistors (FETs) and resistors. The Sandia Robust Hydrogen Sensor platform containing integrated heaters, temperature sensors, and hydrogen sensitive resistors and FETs was compared to a Sandia Wide Range Sensor containing a 10 atomic percent Ni/Pd (1000A) alloy resistor with a (1000A) Ti adhesion layer. After six months the two hydrogen sensing resistors on the Robust platform, without an adhesion layer, read a hydrogen concentration of 61% and 2.3%, while the Wide Range Sensor read a hydrogen concentration of 0.102%, which is a dramatic improvement in limiting baseline drift.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Interferometry At The University Of Arizona

The University of Arizona is uniquely fortunate to include both the Optical Sciences Center and Steward Observatory, where a great deal of work has been done in the past and is continuing today in the areas of optical design, fabrication, and testing. These organizations, literally across the street from each other, have over the years cooperated on numerous telescope and related projects. Interferometry has played a key role in the fabrication of the optics for these projects and has been an area of constant development as requirements for these optics have become more stringent.
A voltage-gated calcium channel is linked to the antigen receptor in Jurkat T lymphocytes.

Activation of T lymphocytes results in an increase in intracellular Ca2+ due in large part to influx of extracellular Ca2+. Using the patch clamp technique, an inward current in Jurkat T lymphocytes was observed upon depolarization from a holding potential of −90 mV but not from −60 mV. This whole-cell current was insensitive to tetrodotoxin, carried by Ba2+, and blocked by Ni2+. Occupancy of the T lymphocyte antigen receptor increased the current's magnitude. These data suggest that antigen receptor-induced Ca2+ entry in T lymphocytes may be mediated by a voltage-regulated Ca channel.
Multi-parameter correlation model and computer-assisted high-Tc material design

We report here a correlation method that uses more than five parameters to increase the ability to predict where high-Tc super-conductivity will be found in oxide systems and on the development of a computer program aimed at reducing experimental effort that is based on this method.
The Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ Pump: Inhibition by Thapsigargin and Enhancement by Adenovirus-Mediated Gene Transfera

: The role of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump in the excitation-contraction coupling of cardiac muscle fibers was evaluated in experiments on SR ATPase inhibition with thapsigargin or, alternatively, on Ca2+ pump enhancement by SR ATPase transgenic expression. We found that thapsigargin, a highly specific and potent inhibitor of the SR ATPase, produces a strong reduction of cytosolic Ca2+ transient and contractile activation in neonatal rat myocytes, in the absence of any other functional effect. On the other hand, Ca2+ pump enhancement by ATPase transgenic expression affects dramatically Ca2+ transient and twitches, resulting in shorter duration and more rapid decay rates. Of particular interest is gene transfer mediated by recombinant adenovirus vectors under control of a cell-specific promoter, resulting in transgenic expression of all myocytes in culture, and no expression in fibroblasts.
Privacy issues in personalized medicine

Pharmacogenomics is the emerging study of why individuals respond differently to drugs. It aims to replace the current 'one size fits all' therapeutic approach with 'personalized medicine' that will use pharmacogenomic tests to predict drug response. In a simple conceptualization, these tests challenge privacy as a result of two factors: how comprehensive is the test and how is the access to samples or digital information controlled. Point-of-care tests are likely to be limited in scope, fit seamlessly into medical records and do not raise qualitatively new ethical and privacy challenges. In order to define practically relevant pharmacogenomic predictive patterns however, large-scale clinical trials and research on human specimens will be required, resulting in large databases of genomic information. The genomic scans' magnitude, stability, implications to kin and ease of dissemination together represent a qualitatively different challenge compared to traditional, self-limited and often temporally transient medical information.
Assessing Languages for Specific Purposes

1. Why Test Language for Specific Purposes? 2. Specific Purpose Language Ability 3. Context, Discourse Domains, and Task Characteristics 4. Strategic competence: Between knowledge and context 5. From Target Language Use to Test Tasks 6. Specific Purpose Tests of Listening and Speaking 7. Specific Purpose Tests of Reading and Writing 8. LSP Test Development and Technology.
The Globular Cluster System of the Spiral Galaxy NGC 7814

We present the results of a wide-field photometric study of the globular cluster (GC) system of the edge-on Sab spiral NGC 7814. This is the first spiral to be fully analyzed from our survey of the GC systems of a large sample of galaxies beyond the Local Group. NGC 7814 is of particular interest because a previous study estimated that it has 500–1000 GCs, giving it the largest specific frequency (SN) known for a spiral. Understanding this galaxy's GC system is important in terms of our understanding of the GC populations of spirals in general and has implications for the formation of massive galaxies. We observed the galaxy in BVR filters with the WIYN 3.5 m telescope and used image classification and three-color photometry to select GC candidates. We also analyzed archival Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Wide Field Planetary Camera 2 images of NGC 7814, both to help quantify the contamination level of the WIYN GC candidate list and to detect GCs in the inner part of the galaxy halo. Combining HST data with high-quality ground-based images allows us to trace the entire radial extent of this galaxy's GC system and determine the total number of GCs directly through observation. We find that rather than being an especially high-SN spiral, NGC 7814 has 200 GCs and SN ~ 1, making it comparable to the two most well-studied spiral galaxies, the Milky Way and M31. We explore the implications of these results for models of the formation of galaxies and their GC systems. The initial results from our survey suggest that the GC systems of typical elliptical galaxies can be accounted for by the merger of two or more spirals, but that for highly luminous elliptical galaxies, additional physical processes may be needed.
D-glucose releases 5-hydroxytryptamine from human BON cells as a model of enterochromaffin cells.

Abstract Background & Aims: 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is released from enterochromaffin cells and activates neural reflex programs regulating motility and secretion. Although sugars are reported to release 5-HT in vivo, it is unclear whether they act directly on enterochromaffin cells or indirectly through an intermediary messenger. The aim was to determine if D-glucose is a stimulus for 5-HT release. Methods: Human BON cells, derived from enterochromaffin cells, were treated with D-glucose, galactose, and the nonmetabolizable methyl α-D-glucopyranoside, or with fructose. Results: Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction together with Western blot analysis revealed an SGLT-like protein. D-Glucose caused a concentration-dependent increase in 5-HT release, which was mimicked by methyl α-D-glucopyranoside and galactose but not fructose. D-Glucose–stimulated 5-HT release was significantly reduced by phloridzin. Concentrations of mannitol below 75 mmol/L were ineffective in releasing 5-HT. Brefeldin A abolished forskolin-stimulated 5-HT release without affecting basal or constitutive release. Conclusions: The results show that high concentrations of metabolizable and nonmetabolizable hexoses activate signal transduction pathways, leading to release of 5-HT. These findings imply a role for enterochromaffin cells as "glucose sensors" during ingestion of a meal. GASTROENTEROLOGY 2001;121:1400-1406
Roles of the lipid peroxidation product 4-hydroxynonenal in obesity, the metabolic syndrome, and associated vascular and neurodegenerative disorders.

A rising tide of obesity and type 2 diabetes has resulted from the development of technologies that have made inexpensive high calorie foods readily available and exercise unnecessary for many people. Obesity and the metabolic syndrome (insulin resistance, visceral adiposity and dyslipidemia) wreak havoc on cells throughout the body thereby promoting cardiovascular and kidney disease, and degenerative diseases of the brain and body. Obesity and insulin resistance promote disease by increasing oxidative damage to proteins, lipids and DNA as the result of a combination of increased free radical production and an impaired ability of cells to detoxify the radicals and repair damaged molecules. By covalently modifying membrane-associated proteins, the membrane lipid peroxidation product 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE) may play particularly sinister roles in the metabolic syndrome and associated disease processes. HNE can damage pancreatic β cells and can impair the ability of muscle and liver cells to respond to insulin. HNE may promote atherosclerosis by modifying lipoproteins and can cause cardiac cell damage by impairing metabolic enzymes. An adverse role for HNE in the brain in obesity and the metabolic syndrome is suggested by studies showing that HNE levels are increased in brain cells with aging and Alzheimer’s disease. HNE can cause the dysfunction and degeneration of neurons by modifying membrane-associated glucose and glutamate transporters, ion-motive ATPases, enzymes involved in amyloid metabolism, and cytoskeletal proteins. Exercise and dietary energy restriction reduce HNE production and may also increase cellular systems for HNE detoxification including glutathione and oxidoreductases. The recent development of low molecular weight molecules that scavenge HNE suggests that HNE can be targeted in the design of drugs for the treatment of obesity, the metabolic syndrome, and associated disorders.
Short-term deposition and long-term accumulation of lagoonal sediment, Great Sound, New Jersey

Abstract A study of the deposition, distribution and compaction of recently deposited sediment was performed in Great Sound — a shallow, low-mesotidal, coastal lagoon in southern New Jersey. Deposition rates determined from weekly and monthly deployment of sediment traps ranged from 5 to 692 mm/yr. By contrast, published 210Pb accumulation rates varied from 1 to 5.4 mm/yr. Sediment traps collect settling material potentially available for accumulation. Extensive bioturbation of the uppermost 1 m of sediments creates an “apparently” overconsolidated substrate and suggests low accumulation rates. Infilling of the lagoon is a function of net sediment accumulation less net sediment compaction. The apparent net accumulation rate is modified by local relative sea-level rise (4.00 mm/yr). A net accumulation rate of at least 4.12 mm/yr is required to maintain the existing steady-state condition, i.e., 0.6 m mean low water depth. Accumulation in excess of 4.12 mm/yr would result in shoaling and a disequilibrium of the system. Under the maximum 210Pb dated net accumulation of 5.40 mm/yr, the sound will fill completely in 488 yrs (assuming a constant 4.00 mm/yr sea-level rise).
Effects of a Low Calcium Diet on Feed Intake, Milk Production, and Response to Blood Calcium Challenge in Lactating Holstein Cows

Twenty-four lactating cows were fed a normal-calcium (.75% of dry matter) diet plus free-choice dicalcium phosphate supplement for 8 wk, a low-calcium (.25% of dry matter) diet for 9 wk, and a low-calcium (.25% of dry matter) diet plus free-choice supplement for 4 wk. The low-calcium diet did not appear to affect adversely feed intake, milk production, or plasma ions. Depression of plasma calcium by sequestration with a chelating agent was less following low intake of calcium than following adequate calcium intake. Presumably, lower calcium intake increased parathyroid hormone which resulted in a larger and more responsive calcium pool immediately mobilizable. Changes in plasma phosphorus and magnesium were similar among treatments. Low calcium intake for short times apparently will not affect intake or production and may increase resistance to calcium stress such as hypocalcemia and parturient paresis.
Direct Measurement of the Relative Contributions of Turgor Pressure, the Peptidoglycan Cell Wall and Cytoskeletal Filaments to Gram-negative Prokaryotic Cell Mechanics using AFM

The envelope of a gram-negative bacterium is composed of three layers: the inner and outer membranes and the periplasmic peptidoglycan (PG) cell wall. The PG layer is thought to be the stress bearing structure that determines and maintains cell shape, preventing cells from bursting due to a large inner turgor pressure. In vitro, PG mechanics have been measured with different techniques, yielding a high elastic modulus. However, in vivo such mechanical measurements are complicated by the turgor pressure. On the other hand, direct measurement of a cell's turgor pressure is difficult due to the presence of the PG layer. We are able to overcome these difficulties and simultaneously measure cell turgor pressure and PG mechanics in vivo with an atomic force microscope (AFM). Using a vancomycin sensitive strain of Escherichia coli, we locally induced small membrane blebs at sites of reduced PG integrity. AFM indentation of these membrane-bound blebs directly probes the turgor pressure. By comparing bleb indentation with indentation of the cell body, we can deduce the relative contributions of the PG layer and turgor pressure to the overall cell mechanics. Furthermore, drugs that inhibit bacterial cytoskeletal filaments can be used to evaluate the role of these proteins in modulating cell elasticity.
A Latent Class Analysis of Tolerance for Nonconformity in the American Public

THE TOLERANCE for nonconformity among the citizenry is an issue of considerable interest to political and social analysts. Samuel Stouffer initiated the currently prevailing research tradition of tolerance in his seminal study of the American public's tolerance for communism. Recent criticisms of this tradition have called for an alternative conceptualization of tolerance in which intolerance may be directed toward either politically left groups or political right groups. Unfortunately, conventional data analytic techniques are not well suited for testing whether this alternative conceptualization provides a more accurate description of tolerance for nonconformity in the American public than Stouffer's. Latent class analysis methodology, however, allows a precise test of the hypothesis, and the results of an analysis based on this method are
The Neisseria gonorrhoeae Biofilm Matrix Contains DNA, and an Endogenous Nuclease Controls Its Incorporation

Neisseria gonorrhoeae has been shown to produce biofilms both in experimental flow chambers and in the human host. Our laboratory has shown that extracellular DNA is an essential component of the gonococcal matrix. We have also identified a gene in N. gonorrhoeae, which we designated nuc. This gene has homology with the staphylococcus-secreted thermonuclease. Our laboratory has characterized nuc through phenotypic analysis of a nuc deletion mutant. Biofilms grown with this strain are significantly thicker and of greater biomass than the N. gonorrhoeae 1291 parent strain. Confocal microscopy indicates that the increased size of the mutant biofilms appears to be due to elevated amounts of extracellular DNA in the biofilm matrix. Chromosomal complementation of the nuc mutation restored the wild-type biofilm phenotype. In addition, we have cloned and expressed the Nuc protein in Escherichia coli, and our data indicate that it has the ability to digest multiple forms of DNA and is a thermonuclease. The ability of Nuc to digest DNA also extends to its ability to disrupt established gonococcal biofilms through degradation of the DNA in the biofilm matrix. Our studies indicate that the N. gonorrhoeae biofilm contains DNA and that the Nuc protein appears to play a role in biofilm formation and remodeling.
The Contribution of Economists to Military Intelligence During World War II

Economists played a crucial role in military intelligence during World War II. Economists working at the Office of Strategic Services estimated enemy battle casualties, analyzed the intentions and capabilities of both enemies and allies, and helped to prepare for negotiations regarding the postwar settlement. Economists working at the Enemy Objectives Unit helped to select enemy targets for bombing. Finally, economists working at the Statistical Research Group worked on a variety of problems brought to them by the U.S. military services. As a consequence of their usefulness during the war, the military continued to employ economists after the war.
Nonpharmacological Prevention of Surgical Wound Infections

Postoperative wound infection is a common and serious complication of surgery. This review will focus on 2 factors known to modulate perioperative immunity: maintenance of perioperative normothermia and provision of supplemental perioperative oxygen. Hypothermia causes numerous adverse outcomes, including morbid myocardial events, increased blood loss and transfusion requirement, postsurgical wound infections, and prolonged hospitalization. Perioperative normothermia should thus be maintained unless therapeutic hypothermia is specifically indicated. Supplemental perioperative oxygen (inspired fraction of 80% instead of 30%) significantly reduces postoperative nausea and vomiting, diminishes the decrease in phagocytosis and bacterial killing usually associated with anesthesia and surgery, and reduces the rate of postoperative wound infection among patients who undergo colon resection. Available data thus suggest that supplemental perioperative oxygen improves surgical outcome with little or no associated risk.
Stepped Product Demand and Factor Supply Functions in Linear Programming Analyses

Regional adjustment studies encounter less than perfectly elastic demand and factor supply conditions. Producing firms are assumed to face perfectly competitive markets. This paper reviews procedures for incorporating product demand and factor supply functions into linear programming analyses. Perfectly competitive conditions including industry income value are considered.