cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Predicting diffusion of innovative products using neural networks

Predicting market growths of innovative products are essential for policy makers, market planners and various hardware and software companies. However, it is difficult to find a model that generalises because both internal and external factors influence the growth process. This study investigated models based on diffusion and connectionist theories to predict diffusions of innovative products. This paper shows that a simple Multi-Layered Perceptron (MLP) neural network can create a very flexible response function to forecast generic diffusion patterns of innovation processes. This study compared performances of MLP and diffusion models on simulated data with varying degrees of uncertainties. MLP models outperformed diffusion models.
Distribution of boron in leaves.

culture methods for growing plants without soil. Cal. Agr. Exp. Sta. Cir. 347. 6. ILJIN, V. S. 1951. Metabolism of plants affected with lime-induced chlorosis (Calciose). Plant & Soil 3: 339-351. 7. ILJIN, V. S. 1951. Metabolism of the grapevine during lime chlorosis. Gardenbauwirs. 17: 33,R-381 (Abst. in Chem. Abs. 28: 6332) 8. ILJIN, V. S. 1945. Salts & organic acids in relation to calciophiles. Flora 37: 265-299. (abstract in Chem. Abs. 39: 4113) 9. LINDSAY, H. L. & D. W. THORNE. 1954. Bicarbonate ion & oxygen level as related to chlorosis. Soil Sci. 77: 271-279. 10. NEISH, A. C. 1949. Production & properties of 2,3-butanediol. Canadian J. Res. 827: 6-8. 1 1. RHODES, W. A., A. WALLACE, & E. M. RommMEY. 1959. Lime-induced chlorosis studied-physiology of disorder investigated to learn role of malonic acid & possibility of a block in organic acid metabolism. Cal. Agr. 13(3): 6. 12. SAYWELL, L. C. & B. B. CUNNINGHAM. 1937. Determination of iron, colorimetr c o-phenanthroline method. Ind. & Eng. Chem. Ann. Ed. 9: 67-69. 13. SCHANDER, H. 1944. The differences & similarities of chlorosis in lupines & wood growth. Gardenbauwiss. 17: 304-369. 14. SCHANDER, H. 1945. The dependence upon external factors of chlorosis of lupines leteus seedlings in sand cultures. Bodenk u Pflanzenernahr. 12: 71-84. 15. SCHANDER, H. 1945. The problems of lime chlorosis in plants. Tohrb. Wiss. Botan. 91: 169-185. (Abstr. in Chem. Abs. 39: 4649.) 16. \VADLEIGH, C. H. & J. C. BROWN. 1952. The chemical status of bean plants afflicted with bicarbonate-induced chlorosis. Botan. Gaz. 113: 373-390. 17. YOUNG, R. H. & L. M. SHANNON. 1959. Malonate as a participant in organic acid metabolism in bush bean leaves. Plant Physiol. 34: 149-152.
Feed and Water Consumption, Growth, and Mortality of Male Broilers

Daily feed use, water use, body weight, and mortality of Cobb x Cobb male broilers over 8-wk growout periods were measured for 10 consecutive growouts in four commercial-scale broiler houses (121.0 x 12.1 m each). Polynomial equations were developed to relate bird age to body weight, daily feed and water use, cumulative weekly feed and water use, and cumulative mortality. Weekly feed conversion was derived from growth and feed use data and was depicted by a third-order polynomial equation. Dead bird weight was calculated using mortality and body weight of the broilers and related to bird age with three polynomial equations over the growth period. Total dead bird weight averaged 76 kg per 1,000 birds placed, of which 10 kg or 13% occurred during the first 5 wk and the remaining 66 kg or 87% occurred during the last 3 wk of the growout periods. Results of this study provide a realistic data base for mathematical modeling of production responses and a guideline for management planning in commercial male broiler operation.
Terpenoid synthase structures: a so far incomplete view of complex catalysis

Covering: up to February 2012 The complexity of terpenoid natural products has drawn significant interest, particularly since their common (poly)isoprenyl origins were discovered. Notably, much of this complexity is derived from the highly variable cyclized and/or rearranged nature of the observed hydrocarbon skeletal structures. Indeed, at least in some cases it is difficult to immediately recognize their derivation from poly-isoprenyl precursors. Nevertheless, these diverse structures are formed by sequential elongation to acyclic precursors, most often with subsequent cyclization and/or rearrangement. Strikingly, the reactions used to assemble and diversify terpenoid backbones share a common carbocationic driven mechanism, although the means by which the initial carbocation is generated does vary. High-resolution crystal structures have been obtained for at least representative examples from each of the various types of enzymes involved in producing terpenoid hydrocarbon backbones. However, while this has certainly led to some insights into the enzymatic structure–function relationships underlying the elongation and simpler cyclization reactions, our understanding of the more complex cyclization and/or rearrangement reactions remains limited. Accordingly, selected examples are discussed here to demonstrate our current understanding, its limits, and potential ways forward.
Comparison of thermal injury zones in loop electrical and lasercervical excisional conization

Thirty cervical conization specimens obtained by thin-loop electric excision were compared with 30 carbon dioxide laser excisional cone specimens. Zones of thermal artifact were measured with a precise stage micrometer technique calibrated to a Zeiss standard. The mean depth of coagulation at the ectocervical margin measured 0.187 and 0.164 mm for thin loop and laser, respectively. Thermal artifact at the endocervical margin was greater with electric loop (0.295 mm) than with superpulsed carbon dioxide laser (0.137 mm). The zones of thermal injury induced by both electric loop and laser made no significant impact on the interpretation of margin adequacy.
Multiplicative Characters and the FFT

Fix an odd prime p throughout this chapter, and set U(m) ≡ U(Z/p m ), the unit group of Z/p m . Consider the space L(Z/p m ). For m > 1, we defined the space $$L_{0}=L(1,m-1)$$ (1) of M-decimated and M m−1 -periodic functions on Z/p m with M = p Z /p m and proved that $$L(Z/p^{m})=W\bigoplus L_{0}$$ (2) where W is the orthogonal complement of L0 in L(Z/p m ). The space L0 and W are invariant under the action of the Fourier transform F of Z/p m . The action of F on L0 was described in the preceeding chapter. We will now take up the action of F on W. For this purpose, we introduce the multiplicative characters on the ring Z/p m .
How Charles Huggins made his nobel prize winning discovery-in his own words: An historic audio recording

the prevalence and penetrance of HOXB13 G84E in a general population. Design, Setting, and Participants: G84E and 14 additional HOXB13 polymorphisms were genotyped in two population-based, Swedish, case-control samples (Cancer of the Prostate in Sweden [CAPS] and Stockholm-1) comprising 4693 controls and 5003 prostate cancer cases. CAPS collected data on patients and population controls nationally between 2001 and 2003. Stockholm-1 collected data on biopsy-positive patients and biopsynegative controls in the Stockholm area between 2005 and 2007. Outcome Measurements and Statistical Analysis: The outcome was pathologically verified prostate cancer. Relative and absolute risks among HOXB13 G84E mutation carriers were explored, as was the combined impact on disease risk of G84E and a polygenic score based on 33 established, common, low-risk variants. Results and Limitations: HOXB13 G84E was observed in 1.3% of population controls and was strongly associated with prostate cancer risk (CAPS: odds ratio [OR]: 3.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.2‐5.4; Stockholm-1: OR: 3.5; 95% CI, 2.4‐5.2). The strongest association was observed for young-onset (OR: 8.6; 95% CI, 5.1‐14.0) and hereditary (OR: 6.6; 95% CI, 3.3‐12.0) prostate cancer. Haplotype analyses supported that G84E is a founder mutation. G84E carriers have an estimated 33% (95% CI, 23‐46) cumulative risk to age 80 yr of prostate cancer, compared to 12% (95% CI, 11‐13) among noncarriers. For G84E carriers within the top quartile of a polygenic score of established susceptibility variants, the cumulative risk was estimated at 48% (95% CI, 36‐64). Conclusions: HOXB13 G84E is prevalent in 1% of the Swedish population and is associated with a 3.5-fold increased risk of prostate cancer. One-third of G84E carriers will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, which has implications for surveillance in mutation carriers. Editorial Comment: This article from Sweden confirms and expands on the original discovery of the germline mutation in the HOXB13 gene. 1 The authors found that the carrier rate in control subjects in Sweden was 1.3% and in prostate cancer cases 4%; the comparable numbers in the United States are 0.1% and 1.4%. This suggests that this is a founder mutation that arose in Scandinavia. In addition, they demonstrate that carriers of the mutation have a cumulative risk of developing prostate cancer up to age 80 of 33%, as opposed to 12% in noncarriers. When they include both carrier status and a genetic risk score based on 33 established susceptibility variants, the lifetime risk of prostate cancer increases to approximately 50%. This suggests that assessment of the G84E mutation and genetic risk score may be useful for individualized prostate cancer screening.
Regional release of aromatic amines from tissues of the rat brain in vitro.

— Radioactive hydroxylated phenylethylamines were released in vitro by electrical stimulation of minces of brain tissues from several anatomically discrete areas, while labelled urea and amphetamine were poorly released from all regions. Release of [3H]norepinephrine occurred in the order hypothalamus > caudate nucleus ≥ cerebral cortex, thus in parallel with the distribution of endogenous norepinephrine. In contrast, [3H]tyramine was poorly released from cortical tissues but readily released from minces of caudate nucleus or hypothalamus. [3H]Octopamine was released from all areas, but was most readily released from thecaudatenucleus. Results for cerebral cortex were similar to those for coronal slices or minces of whole brain; release occurred in the order: norepinephrine > octopamine > tyramine in all three preparations. We suggest that certain β-hydroxylated phenolic phenylethyl-amines may be released from norepinephrine- or dopamine-containing nerve endings in the brain, and that their non-β-hydroxylated congeners may be released from neurons in which endogenous amines are not β-hydroxylated.
High‐efficiency CPW‐to‐slotline transitions on low εr substrates

The power dissipation characteristics of CPW-to-slotline transitions are discussed. The resonant stub chosen to terminate one CPW slot in these transitions has a significant effect on the transition loss. Series-stub designs are shown to reduce energy loss by 2.5–3 times on a low-dielectric-constant substrate, as compared to the more common radial-stub design. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 41: 91–93, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20057
A Computer Program for Determining the Significance of the Difference Between Pairs of Independently Derived Values of Kappa or Weighted Kappa

A problem that is of interest to research investigators is the extent to which interrater reliability estimates, based upon categorical data, are similar between pairs of observers all of whom have independently evaluated the same sample of subjects. The problem can be resolved statistically by the computer program described herein.
Teachers’ attitudes toward technology integration in schools: a four‐year study

This trend study was designed to examine a current trend and pattern, as well as a development of teachers’ concerns about technology integration in the curriculum. The study was conducted by repeated cross‐sectional studies, applying the same research instrument to different samples of subjects at different points, over a period of four years during 2004–07. Two hundred and seventy‐five in‐service teachers in two graduate courses participated in the study at a Midwestern public university in the USA. The Stages of Concerns (SoC) Questionnaire was used to assess teachers’ seven stages of concern: Awareness, Informational, Personal, Management, Consequence, Collaboration, and Refocusing. This study found patterns of concern typical for teachers at different levels of their professional development as well as distinct and stable differences between technology user sub‐groups over four years. Specifically, (1) teachers’ concern profile as a whole were very intense in the stages of Informational, Personal, an...
Topical minoxidil dose-response effect in alopecia areata.

• Topical 5% minoxidil solution was used to treat 47 patients with severe alopecia areata. Forty patients (85%) had terminal hair regrowth after 48 to 60 weeks of treatment. In the majority of patients, hair regrowth was not cosmetically acceptable. Data were compared with those from a previous study with topical 1% minoxidil solution. Both the percentage of responders and the quality of their hair regrowth were significantly greater with 5% than with 1% topical minoxidil solution. One patient developed an allergic contact dermatitis to minoxidil, but no systemic side effects were detected. The results strongly suggest a dose-response effect for topical minoxidil treatment of alopecia areata and the importance of exploring modifications in dosing and delivery systems to enhance therapeutic efficacy. ( Arch Dermatol 1986;122:180-182)
X-ray microscopy with compact pulsed sources

X-ray microscopy inherently possesses characteristics complementary to optical and electron microscopy. Short wavelength x-ray radiation, especially in the so-called 'water window', permits a twenty-fold improvement in spatial resolution over optical microscopy while preserving a depth of field large enough to image whole biological specimens int heir natural state. Whereas electron microscopy can access atomic-scale resolution,this can only be applied to biological and medical specimens at the expense of detrimental preparation procedures that preclude real-time analysis of structural changes in living organisms. We describe progress being made in an x-ray imaging technology that provides high-resolution single frame x-ray images of in-vitro specimens captured in a time sufficiently short that any radiation damage mechanisms to the structure are not recorded. Several different biology and medical research groups find this type of microscopy particularly well-suited to the detailed analysis of sub-cellular features, and to the study of live organisms subjected to various forms of external stimuli. This technology utilizes bright x-ray sources produced by compact pulse laser systems. The incorporation of advanced x-ray optical and electron-optical systems will lead to the development of a compact, real-time x-ray microscope, having a broad range of applications.
Kalman filter formulation of low-Level television image motion estimation

The problem of television image motion estimation is formulated as an application of Kalman filter theory. The nonuniform image motion present in a television scene is represented as the state variable of a randomly driven difference equation. A new approach is then introduced for linearizing measurement equations that arise in low-level image velocity estimation. Kalman filter theory is applied to the problem of optimally solving the nonuniform motion estimation problem based upon the image motion model and the linearized measurement equations.
Infarct of the conus medullaris simulating a spinal cord tumor: Case report

A 71-year-old woman had the sudden onset of a neurogenic bladder and a stepwise increase in paraparesis that left her unable to stand or walk. Magnetic resonance imaging showed what appeared to be a tumor in the conus medullaris. After laminectomy, the lesion was localized by ultrasound examination, and a biopsy was performed. The deficits remained unchanged postoperatively. Microscopic examination of the biopsy specimen showed necrosis and pathologic changes consistent with infarction of the conus medullaris. An anomalous arterial supply of the conus medullaris is the most likely cause of this unusual problem. The patient gradually regained her ability to walk, but the neurogenic bladder persists.
Families We Choose: Lesbians, Gays, Kinship

Preface to the Paperback EditionAcknowledgments1.The Monkey Cage and the Red Desoto2. Exiles from KinshipIs Straight to Gay as Family Is to No Family? Deck the HallsKinship and ProcreationFrom Biology to Choice3. Coming Out to "Blood" RelativesDisclosing Sexual IdentityCategorical Understandings (Or, It's All Relative)Family-Which Family?Conditional LoveDiscursive LocationsTaking Identity, Talking KinshipSelection and Rejection4. Kinship and Coherence: Ten Stories5. Families We ChooseBuilding Gay FamiliesSubstitute for Biological Family?Friends and LoversFrom Friendship to CommunityDeliberating Difference6. Lovers Through the Looking GlassThe Looking-Glass OtherPower "Differentials," Relationship "Roles"The Urge to MergeNarcissism, Kinship, and Class ConvictionsCouples Versus CommunityReflections on Metaphor7. Parenting in the Age of AIDSThe Lesbian Mother as IconMale-Female Revisited: Insemination and AIDSOf Death and BirthBlood Relatives RespondParents and Persons8. The Politics of Gay FamiliesAssimilation or Transformation?Common GroundThe Big PictureReengineering BiogeneticsAppendixNotesReferencesIndex
Thermal, photochemical and mass spectral reactions of 2-ethyl-5-methyl-1-pyrroline

Pyrolysis of 2-ethyl-5-methylpyrroline (1) results in formation of 2,5-dimethylpyrrole, 2-ethyl-5-methylpyrrole, 2-ethylpyrrole and other minor products. Loss of a hydrogen atom or methyl radicals is suggested as the first step in these reactions. Support for the former comes from hydrogen atom abstraction by photo-excited benzophenone. The mass spectral reactions of 1 are briefly considered.
PALAEOSTACHYA ANDREWSlI, A NEW SPECIES OF CALAMITEAN CONE FROM THE AMERICAN CARBONIFEROUS

WHILE PALAEOSTACHYA is one of the most interesting fossil cones assigned to the Calamitales and was considered by certain of the early workers to be the only true fructification of the group, the major portion of our anatomical knowledge of the genus is based on less than one-half dozen specimens from the Lancashire coal-measures. These were originally described by Williamson (1871, 1888) and the most recent and complete account (of the same specimens) is that of Hickling (1907). Thus almost 70 years have elapsed since the discovery of the fossil material on which most of our current knowledge is founded.
Winter grass cover crop effects on nematodes and yields of double cropped soybean.

Rye (Secale cereale L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) are commonly double cropped with soybean (Glycine max L.). Recent greenhouse studies have shown variability in plant-parasitic nematode response to cool season grass species and cultivars. However, subsequent soybean performance was not affected by previous annual ryegrass cultivar in the green-house. The objective of this research was to determine whether winter cover crop species or cultivars affected nematode populations and subsequent performance of soybean in teh field. Four cultivars of annual ryegrass, wheat, and rye, and a fallow control were seeded on a Suffolk sandy loam (fine-loamy, siliceous, thermic Typic Hapuldult) soil in each of three years. Nematode-susceptible soybeans were seeded following forage removal. Soil samples for nematode counts were taken immediately before soybean harvest each year. In another experiment, one cultivar each of annual ryegrass, wheat, and rye, and a fallow control were followed by three soybean cultivars selected for differing nematode susceptibility. Grass cultivars did not affect nematode populations under succedding soybean. The only nematodes affected by grass species in either experiment were Pratylenchus spp., Heterodera glycines Ichinohe, and Tylenchorhynchus claytoni (Kofoid and White) Chitwood. Nematode population means were usually low following ryegrass and high following the fallow control. High soybean yields followed the fallow control, and low soybean yields followed annual ryegrass.
Does the philosophy of medicine exist

There has been a great deal of discussion, in this journal and others, about obstacles hindering the evolution of the philosophy of medicine. Such discussions presuppose that there is widespread agreement about what it is that constitutes the philosophy of medicine. Despite the fact that there is, and has been for decades, a great deal of literature, teaching and professional activity carried out explicitly in the name of the “philosophy of medicine”, this is not enough to establish that consensus exists as to the definition of the field. And even if consensus can be obtained as to what constitutes the philosophy of medicine, this does not mean that it exists as a field. In order to constitute a field, an inquiry must be well-integrated with other cognate inquiries and disciplines, have an established canon of key books, textbooks, anthologies and articles, and a set of distinctive and defining problems. The philosophy of medicine as it currently exists fails to satisfy these criteria and, thus, fails to exist as a field of inquiry. The non-existence of the philosophy of medicine is unfortunate. Medicine and philosophy would both benefit from the development of the philosophy of medicine as a field. The philosophy of medicine is an essential foundation for bioethics, it should provide insights into some of the key problems of the philosophy of science such as the nature of explanation and theoretical evolution, and, ought help to shape the goals as well as the methods used in both experimentation and research in medicine and the health sciences.
MEMS electromagnetic energy harvesters with multiple resonances

There is going on a flurry of research activity in the development of effcient energy harvesters from all branches of energy conversion. The need for developing self-powered wireless sensors and actuators to be employed in unmanned combat vehicles also seems to grow steadily. These vehicles are inducted into perilous war zones for silent watch missions. Energy management is sometimes carried out using misson-aware energy expenditure strategies. Also, when there is a requirement for constant monitoring of events, the sensors and the subsystems of combat vehicles require energy harvesters that can operate over a discrete set of spot frequencies. This paper attempts to review some of the recent techniques and the energy harvesting devices based on electromagnetic and electromechanical principles. In particular, we shall discuss the design and performance of a MEMS-harvester that exhibits multiple resonances. Frequency response of a simulated electromagnetic harvester is plotted. It has three dominant peaks at three different resonant frequencies. Variation in the load power in the normalized units as a function of load is found, which determines the matched load resistance.
Techniques to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of inductive logic programming systems: the TWEETY approaches

This paper presents four novel approaches to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of Inductive Logic Programming (ILP) systems, along with their implementation in a new ILP system, called TWEETY. The proposed approaches include (1) a new declaration mechanism, called connection declarations, for bottom clause construction, which is simpler but more expressive than the commonly used mode declarations; (2) a new covering technique, called super_covering, which reduces the examples in such a way that recursion can be learned, independently from the ordering of the examples; (3) a new search heuristics, called neg_coverage heuristics, which guides the search using only the number of negative examples covered by each hypothesis and (4) a new search algorithm, called doubly_guided_search, which searches for best clauses by alternating the use of two search heuristics, i.e. the traditional coverage search heuristics and the new neg_coverage search heuristics. The TWEETY system is shown to be more effective and e...
Control of MAP kinase activation by the mitogen-induced threonine/tyrosine phosphatase PAC1.

INTRACELLULAR signalling following mitogenic stimulation of quiescent cells involves the initiation of a phosphorylation cascade that leads to the rapid and reversible activation of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases ERK1 and ERK2 (refs 1,2). MAP kinase activation is mediated by dual phosphorylation within the motif Thr-Glu-Tyr by MAP kinase kinase (MEK)3. Following activation, the MAP kinases translocate into the nucleus where they phosphorylate several transduction targets, including transcription factors4–7. We have previously identified PAC1 as an immediate-early mitogen-inducible tyrosine phosphatase in nuclei of T cells8. Here we present several lines of evidence indicating that PAC1 is a physiologically relevant MAP kinase phosphatase. Recombinant PAC1 in vitro is a dual-specific Thr/Tyr phosphatase with stringent substrate specificity for MAP kinase. Constitutive expression of PAC1 in vivo leads to inhibition of MAP kinase activity normally stimulated by epidermal growth factor, phorbol myristyl acetate, or T-cell receptor crosslinking. The inactivation of MAP kinase by PAC1 results in inhibition of MAP kinase-regulated reporter gene expression.
Cholecystokinin-induced suppression of locomotion is attenuated in capsaicin pretreated rats.

Abstract Cholecystokinin (CCK), a peptide found in both gastrointestinal endocrine cells and neurons, suppresses food intake and reduces locomotor behavior when injected systemically. Both the locomotor and ingestive effects of CCK are abolished by subdiaphragmatic vagotomy. Pretreatment of adult rats with capasaicin attenuates the reduced locomotor activity and reduced food intake which normally occurs following injection of exogenous cholecystokinin. Since capsaicin damages or destroys small-diameter, unmyelinated, sensory neurons, including vagal sensory fibers, these data support the interpretation that both CCK-induced suppression of food intake and CCK-induced reduction of locomotion are mediated by fine, unmyelinated sensory neurons.
Droplet Model for the Viscosity of Fluids near the Critical Point

We generalize the droplet model introduced by Ackerson et al. to make it consistent with scaling laws for the free energy. We then use the model to predict a logarithmic divergence of the shear viscosity, in agreement with mode-coupling theories and experiment. We also study non-Newtonian (finite-shear-gradient) effects on the viscosity.
A requiem for the USA Is small shareholder monitoring effective

Abstract From 1986 to 1993, the United Shareholders Association (USA) provided a conduit through which small shareholders could unite and attempt to influence the governance of large US corporations. We show that the USA targeted large firms that underperformed the market, that its influence increased from 1990 to 1993, and that USA-Sponsored proposals were more successful when the target firm was a poor performer with high institutional ownership. The announcement of 53 USA-negotiated agreements is associated with an average abnormal return of 0.9% or a total shareholder wealth gain of $1.3 billion, suggesting that USA-sponsored shareholder activism enhanced shareholder value.
Avulsion Fractures of the Fifth Metatarsal Base: A Prospective Outcome Study:

Background: This prospective study was done to evaluate functional outcomes after acute avulsion fractures of the fifth metatarsal base. Methods: Fifty-two patients who sustained an avulsion fracture of the fifth metatarsal base and presented to the outpatient clinic of our hospital system were treated according to a standardized protocol. A total of 49 patients (50 fractures) were available for 1-year followup. There were eight men and 41 women with an average age of 41.9 (range 17 to 81) years. The lower extremity was placed in a hard-soled shoe, and patients were allowed to bear weight as tolerated. Baseline data collection consisted of demographic information, and radiographic, and functional evaluation. Patients were seen at regularly scheduled visits for 6 months and then contacted at 1 year to obtain followup information. A Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA) questionnaire was obtained at 6 months and 1 year. Analyses were performed to determine differences in outcome based on demograp...
Exploring links between vadose zone hydrology and chemical weathering in the Boulder Creek critical zone observatory

Understanding the relationship between subsurface flow paths on hillslopes and chemical weathering of bedrock is fundamental to understanding the timing and mechanisms that weather bedrock to saprolite. The link between chemical weathering of bedrock and contact time with reactive water along flow paths motivates this study. Water drives the chemical alteration of rock into saprolite, yet connected porosity generally declines with depth into the weathered profile. Saprolite formation, therefore, reflects coupled weathering and permeability development over time. This study uses numerical modeling and soil-moisture monitoring to explore the hydrology of the unsaturated zone and the influence of fracture density, hillslope gradient, and permeability contrasts within the saprolite development horizon on saprolite development.
Rapid scaleable chromatographic purification of nucleic acids from proteinaceous mixtures

Abstract The present studies describe a unique HPLC method for the purification of nucleic acids from proteins, scaleable to a preparative or process level, using a Zorbax PRO-10/DN 300 A silica packing. Columns of this material have an extremely high affinity for proteinaceous materials, and a very low affinity for nucleic acids. We demonstrate this by separating salmon DNA from bovine serum albumin; and describe use of the PRO-10/D-N column to separate plasmid DNA from bacterial lysates. The method is quick and, unlike phenol-chloroform extraction, utilizes physiological buffers to minimize hazardous operations. This LC method is faster than classical non-LC methods, is less labor intensive, and uses no organic solvents, thereby eliminating the need for post-separation recovery operations. The high recovery of DNA purified by Zorbax PRO-10/D-N provides DNA material suitable for many common molecular manipulations including restriction enzyme cleavage, ligation, and amplification.
Clock retardation, absolute space, and special relativity

We consider a sequence of absolute-space kinematical theories which differ more or less from the special theory of relativity (STR) in the amount of clock retardation which they predict, but which agree with STR with respect to roundtrip light experiments, such as Michelson-Morley and Kennedy-Thorndike. This sequence of theories is imbedded in the synchrony-free formulation of STR developed by Winnie by modifying the equal passage time principle. The paper has bearing on the relationship between the slow clock transport behavior of clocks and the one-way velocity of light. Experiments which claim to measure the latter are discussed.
The Measurement of High D. C. Potential Differences With Applications to The Calibration of Electroscopes and Electrostatic Voltmeters

An arrangement of condensers, switches, and a ballistic galvanometer is discussed, by means of which high D.C. potential difference can be measured with considerably greater precision than given by ordinary high voltage electrostatic voltmeters. Simple equations of design are derived, which if scrupulously followed will give 0.5% (and greater) accuracy no matter how high the D.C. potential difference. The application of this method to the calibration of an electroscope is given in detail.
Radon emanation on San Andreas Fault

Subsurface radon emanation monitored in shallow dry holes along an active segment of the San Andreas fault in central California shows spatially coherent large temporal variations that seem to be correlated with local seismicity.
Anticipating Nationhood: Collaboration and Rumor in the Japanese Occupation of Manila

To come under colonial occupation is to live in a state of constant displacement. Under siege from the economic, military, and cultural forces of the metropole, a colonized people finds itself cons...
Reaction progress and timing of retrogression of eclogite-facies rocks, Danmarkshavn, North-East Greenland Caledonides

Eclogites are commonly preserved in the cores of mafic lenses that are surrounded by amphibolite-facies margins. The amphibolites are produced on the retrograde path with the addition of fluid to an otherwise anhydrous assemblage; the fluids are expected to enhance zircon growth. We studied two high-pressure (H P ) mafic/ultramafic lenses from the North-East Greenland eclogite province (a boudinaged garnet-clinopyroxenite and a garnet-websterite) in order to establish the timing of retrogression. We focused on the garnet-clinopyroxenite outcrop to establish the role of the fluid during retrograde metamorphism and to determine the progress of the metamorphic reactions that define the transformation of the H P assemblage to amphibolite. We collected three samples representing different degrees of amphibolitisation, and used them to determine the reaction progress between the different retrograde stages. Reactions (1) and (2) show increasing fluid availability with increasing retrogression: \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \[3.33\ Cpx\ +\ 0.56\ Grt\ +\ 0.105\ Plag\ +\ 1.17\ H_{2}O\ =\ 1.17\ Amp\] \end{document}(1) \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \[2.40\ Cpx\ +\ 1.99\ Grt\ +\ 6.33\ Qtz\ +\ 1.06\ Rt\ +\ 2.02\ H_{2}O\ =\ 2.02\ Amp\ +\ 0.59\ Plag\ +\ 0.63\ Ilm\] \end{document}(2) We determined U-Pb SHRIMP ages and collected zircon trace-element data on metamorphic rims of zircons for both lithologies, from both the H P samples and the surrounding amphibolite rims. These ages and trace elements, combined with chronological and structural data previously published, allow us to interpret the retrograde path for these rocks and the Danmarkshavn area in general. The age of the metamorphic zircon is the same in the center and at the margin of the mafic and ultramafic pods, with ages spanning between 390 and 360 Ma and younger ages (about 330–340 Ma) for the garnet-clinopyroxenite. The oldest Paleozoic ages in the mafic samples likely record the timing of H P metamorphism or initial retrogression. Pegmatite emplacement into strain shadows between mafic boudins was ongoing at 375 Ma. Fluid circulation accompanying deformation and pegmatite emplacement is recorded by the 375 Ma zircon growth in the garnet-websterite. Additional zircon growth is observed both in the garnet-clinopyroxenite and garnet-websterite as well as in a boudin-neck pegmatite at ca . 360 Ma. Continued zircon growth at 340, 330, and 315 Ma is recorded in the garnet-clinopyroxenite, the adjacent boudin-neck pegmatite and the pegmatite dike that cross-cuts amphibolite-facies structural fabrics. All of the younger episodes of zircon growth are interpreted to reflect fluid influx linked to continued retrograde metamorphism, deformation, and pegmatite emplacement in the Carboniferous.
Numerical studies of forced convection heat transfer from a cylinder embedded in a packed bed

Abstract Forced convection heat transfer from a cylinder embedded in a packed bed was studied numerically. The local volume-averaged conservation equations were used to examine the effects of the governing dimensionless parameters: the Reynolds, Darcy, Forchheimer and effective Prandtl numbers. An increase in either the Reynolds number or effective Prandtl number resulted in heat transfer enhancement. The effect of decreasing Darcy number (Da) was an increase in the Nusselt number. The effect of Forchheimer number on heat transfer was found to depend on the product of Darcy and Reynolds numbers (Da ReD). Through a comparison of numerical predictions with experimental data, effective conductivities were extracted and average thermal dispersion effects were quantified.
Semiempirical molecular orbital theory in carcinogenesis research

Abstract It is generally believed that most chemical carcinogens exert their effects through covalent modification of the nucleic acid base sites. Significant clarification of the underlying chemistry involved in these early and critical events is available through the techniques of computational chemistry. The role of semiempirical molecular orbital theory in this area is reviewed using examples focusing on 1. (i) the conversion of precarcinogens to reactive electrophiles, 2. (ii) the regiochemistry of nucleic acid adduct formation, 3. (iii) the chemical and physical consequences of nucleic acid base modification, and 4. (iv) empirical structure activity relationships. The symbiotic relationship that can exist between the semiempirical and ab initio molecular orbital procedures is emphasized, as is the continuing niche for the semiempirical methodology in the study of systems that are too large, or in situations that are insufficiently cost effective, for the application of ab initio methods.
Convexity and characterization of optimal policies in a dynamic routing problem

An infinite horizon, expected average cost, dynamic routing problem is formulated for a simple failure-prone queueing system, modelled as a continuous time, continuous state controlled stochastic process. We prove that the optimal average cost is independent of the initial state and that the cost-to-go functions of dynamic programming are convex. These results, together with a set of optimality conditions, lead to the conclusion that optimal policies are switching policies, characterized by a set of switching curves (or regions), each curve corresponding to a particular state of the nodes (servers).
Incidence rates of the major leukemia subtypes among U.S. Hispanics, Blacks, and non-Hispanic Whites

While leukemia rates are thought to be lower in South and Central America, no study has systematically investigated incidence rates of the leukemia subtypes among Hispanics in the U.S. This was a retrospective cohort study, using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program of the National Cancer Institute, 1992 - 2001, to compare leukemia incidence rates as a function of race and ethnicity. It was found that in adults, Hispanics had lower incidence rates for each of the major types of leukemia as compared to non-Hispanic Whites: For AML, elderly Whites had an incidence rate ratio (IRR) of 1.61 in comparison to Hispanics (p < 0.001) and 1.27 in comparison to Blacks (p < 0.001); for CML, the IRR among the elderly was 1.42 that of Hispanics (p < 0.001) and 1.22 that of Blacks (p = 0.003); and for CLL, the IRR was 2.31 times that of Hispanics (p < 0.001) and 1.48 times that of Blacks (p < 0.001). In ALL, however, Hispanics aged 0 - 19 had a significantly higher incidence rate than Whites and Blacks, with an IRR of 1.32 compared to Whites (p < 0.001), and 2.62 compared to Blacks (p < 0.001). In AML, CML, and CLL, among people age 65 or older, white non-Hispanics have higher incidence rates than Blacks, and Blacks have higher incidence rates than Hispanics. Childhood ALL incidence rates are highest among Hispanics, and lowest among Blacks.
Reactivation of the p53 Tumor Suppressor Pathway by a Stapled p53 Peptide

The p53-hDM2 protein interaction is a validated therapeutic target in cancer. We report the synthesis of stabilized alpha-helix of p53 (SAH-p53) compounds that antagonize the p53-hDM2 interaction. We demonstrate that hydrocarbon stapling confers cellular permeability to a p53 peptide that is then capable of modulating transcriptional activity. The lead SAH-p53 compound triggers apoptosis in hDM2-overexpressing cancer cells by reactivating the native p53 signaling pathway. SAH-p53 is the first example of an all-hydrocarbon i, i+7 stabilized peptide that subverts cancer through direct modulation of a transcriptional pathway.
Matrix density mediates polarization and lumen formation of endothelial sprouts in VEGF gradients

Endothelial cell (EC) sprouting morphogenesis is a critical step during angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from existing conduits. Here, three-dimensional sprouting morphogenesis was examined using in vitro microfluidic devices that enabled the separate and simultaneous tuning of biomechanical and soluble biochemical stimuli. Quantitative analysis of endothelial sprout formation demonstrated that the ability of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to regulate stable sprout formation was mediated by the density of the surrounding collagen/fibronectin matrix. The coordinated migration and proliferation of multiple ECs to form stable sprouts were enhanced at intermediate matrix densities (1.2-1.9 mg ml(-1)), while lower densities resulted in uncoordinated migration (0.3-0.7 mg ml(-1)) and higher densities resulted in broad cell clusters that did not elongate (2.7 mg ml(-1)). Within the permissive range of matrix biomechanics, higher density matrices resulted in shorter, thicker, and slower-growing sprouts. The sprouts in higher density matrices also were more likely to polarize towards higher VEGF concentrations, included more cells per cross-sectional area, and demonstrated more stable lumen formation compared to sprouts in lower density matrices. These results quantitatively demonstrate that matrix density mediates VEGF-induced sprout polarization and lumen formation, potentially by regulating the balance between EC migration rate and proliferation rate.
On-line commissioning of the HRIBF resonant ionization laser ion source

Abstract A highly selective resonant ionization laser ion source has been successfully commissioned at the Holifield Radioactive Ion Beam Facility, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, for the production of pure beams of short-lived nuclei for spectroscopic studies. The laser ion source provided beams of neutron-rich Ga isotopes to the Low-energy Radioactive Ion Beam Spectroscopy Station for beta decay measurements. The radioactive Ga isotopes were produced by 50-MeV proton induced fission of 238 U and ionized by laser radiation using a two-step resonant ionization scheme. Isobarically pure 83 Ga, 85 Ga, and 86 Ga beams were delivered to the experiment at approximate rates of 12,000 ions/s, 100 ions/s, and 3 ions/s, respectively.
Correlations in Nonequilibrium Steady States of Random Halves Models

We present the results of a detailed study of energy correlations at steady state for a 1-D model of coupled energy and matter transport. Our aim is to discover—via theoretical arguments, conjectures, and numerical simulations—how spatial covariances scale with system size, their relations to local thermodynamic quantities, and the randomizing effects of heat baths. Among our findings are that short-range covariances respond quadratically to local temperature gradients, and long-range covariances decay linearly with macroscopic distance. These findings are consistent with exact results for the simple exclusion and KMP models.
3D chemical imaging of Li-ion batteries using femtosecond laser plasma spectroscopy

We introduce the use of femtosecond laser plasma spectroscopy in chemical imaging of Li-ion battery system components. Spatially resolved mapping of major and minor elements of Li-ion batteries is presented and correlated to electrochemical performance.
Single layer spectro-polarimetric filter for advanced LWIR FPAs

We explore the spectral and angular selectivity of near surface normal transmission of grating modified metallic surfaces and their ultimate potential for application as narrow-band spectro-polarimetric planar filter components in the development of advanced infrared focal plane arrays. The developed photonic microstructures exhibit tailored spectral transmission characteristics in the long wavelength infrared, and can be fabricated to preferentially transmit a given linear polarization within the design band. Modification of the material and structural properties of the diffractive optical element enables sub-pixel tuning of the spectro-polarimetric response of the device allowing for intelligent engineering of planar filter components for development of advanced focal plane arrays in the long wavelength infrared. The planar nature of the developed components leaves them immune to fabrication issues that typically plague thin film interference filters used for similar applications in the infrared, namely, deposition of multiple low-stress quarter-wavelength films and modification of the film thicknesses for each pixel. The solution developed here presents the opportunity for subpixel modification of the spectral response leading to an efficient, versatile filter component suitable for direct integration with commercially available focal plane array technologies via standard fabrication techniques. We will discuss the theoretical development and analysis of the described components and compare the results to the current state-of-the-art.
A SPIKE1 signaling complex controls actin-dependent cell morphogenesis through the heteromeric WAVE and ARP2/3 complexes

During morphogenesis, the actin cytoskeleton mediates cell-shape change in response to growth signals. In plants, actin filaments organize the cytoplasm in regions of polarized growth, and the filamentous arrays can be highly dynamic. Small GTPase signaling proteins termed Rho of plants (ROP)/RAC control actin polymerization. ROPs cycle between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound forms, and it is the active form that interacts with effector proteins to mediate cytoskeletal rearrangement and cell-shape change. A class of proteins termed guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) generate GTP–ROP and positively regulate ROP signaling. However, in almost all experimental systems, it has proven difficult to unravel the complex signaling pathways from GEFs to the proteins that nucleate actin filaments. In this article, we show that the DOCK family protein SPIKE1 (SPK1) is a GEF, and that one function of SPK1 is to control actin polymerization via two heteromeric complexes termed WAVE and actin-related protein (ARP) 2/3. The genetic pathway was constructed by using a combination of highly informative spk1 alleles and detailed analyses of spk1, wave, and arp2/3 single and double mutants. Remarkably, we find that in addition to providing GEF activity, SPK1 associates with WAVE complex proteins and may spatially organize signaling. Our results describe a unique regulatory scheme for ARP2/3 regulation in cells, one that can be tested for widespread use in other multicellular organisms.
Several stressors fail to reduce adult hippocampal neurogenesis

Neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus of adult laboratory animals has been widely reported to be vulnerable to many psychological and physical stressors. However, we have found no effects of acute restraint stress, acute or subchronic tailshock stress, or acute, subchronic, or chronic resident-intruder stress on neural progenitor cell (NPC) proliferation, short or long term survival of newborn cells, or brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA expression in adult rats. In addition, we did not observe any effect of chronic resident-intruder stress on NPC proliferation in adolescent rats. A selectively bred stress-sensitive line was also found to exhibit no alterations in NPC proliferation following tailshock stress, although this line did exhibit a lower proliferation rate under baseline (unstressed) conditions when compared with non-selected rats. These results challenge the prevailing hypothesis that any stressor of sufficient intensity and duration has a marked negative impact upon the rate of hippocampal neurogenesis, and suggest that some yet unidentified factors related to stress and experimental conditions are crucial in the regulation of neurogenesis.