cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chemical Weathering in a Tropical Watershed, Luquillo Mountains, Puerto Rico: II. Rate and Mechanism of Biotite Weathering

Abstract Samples of soil, saprolite, bedrock, and porewater from a lower montane wet forest, the Luquillo Experimental Forest (LEF) in Puerto Rico, were studied to investigate the rates and mechanisms of biotite weathering. The soil profile, at the top of a ridge in the Rio Icacos watershed, consists of a 50–100-cm thick layer of unstructured soil above a 600–800 cm thick saprolite developed on quartz diorite. The only minerals present in significant concentration within the soil and saprolite are biotite, quartz, kaolinite, and iron oxides. Biotite is the only primary silicate releasing significant K and Mg to porewaters. Although biotite in samples of the quartz diorite bedrock is extensively chloritized, chlorite is almost entirely absent in the saprolite phyllosilicates. Phyllosilicate grains are present as 200–1000 μm wide books below about 50 cm depth. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron microprobe analyses indicate that the phyllosilicate grains contain a core of biotite surrounded by variable amounts of kaolinite. Lattice fringe images under transmission electron microscope (TEM) show single layers of biotite altering to two layers of kaolinite, suggesting dissolution of biotite and precipitation of kaolinite at discrete boundaries. Some single 14-A layers are also observed in the biotite under TEM. The degree of kaolinitization of individual phyllosilicate grains as observed by TEM decreases with depth in the saprolite. This TEM work is the first such microstructural evidence of epitaxial growth of kaolinite onto biotite during alteration in low-temperature environments. The rate of release of Mg in the profile, calculated as a flux through the soil normalized per watershed land area, is approximately 500 mol hectare−1 yr−1 (1.6 × 10−9 molMg msoil−2 s−1). This rate is similar to the flux estimated from Mg discharge out the Rio Icacos (1000 mol hectare−1 yr−1, or 3.5 × 10−9 molMg msoil−2 s−1), indicating that scaling up from the soil to the watershed is possible for Mg release. The rate of Mg release from biotite, normalized to Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area, is calculated using a mass balance equation which includes the density and volume of phyllosilicate grains, porewater chemistry and flux, and soil porosity. The mean rates of biotite weathering calculated from K and Mg release rates are approximately 6 and 11 × 10−16 molbiotite mbiotite−2 s−1 respectively, significantly slower than laboratory rates (10−12 to 10−11 molbiotite mbiotite−2 s−1). The discrepancy in scaling down from the soil to the laboratory is probably explained by (1) differences in weathering mechanism between the two environments, (2) higher solute concentrations in soil porewaters, (3) loss of reactive surface area of biotite in the saprolite due to kaolinite and iron oxide coatings, and/or (4) unaccounted-for heterogeneities in flow path through the soil.
Creativity in the information technology curriculum proposal

The importance of creativity in the workplace has been long examined and debated. The discipline of Information Technology is particularly in need of creative people to solve the myriad of problems and opportunities faced in this field on a daily basis. Many other technology-oriented fields recognize the importance of creativity in their professions and some design their course curriculum models to include it. The IS 2002 Model Curriculum, for example, includes the topic of creativity in a number of its Body of Knowledge elements. This paper reviews the inclusion of creativity in the IS Model Curriculum and proposes that creativity is important enough to be included in the model curriculum for four-year degree Information Technology programs that is currently being developed. Suggestions as to how creativity might fit into an IT model curriculum are also discussed.
Flow and Heat Flux Behavior of Micro-bubble Jet Flows Observed in Thin, Twisted-Wire, Subcooled Boiling in Microgravity

Thin wire, subcooled boiling experiments were performed onboard an aircraft flying a parabolic trajectory to provide microgravity conditions for improved observation of jet flow phenomena and their behavior in the absence of buoyant forces. A new type of nucleation jet flow was observed in microgravity. This new micro-bubble jet flow is seen at medium to high heat fluxes and is characterized by a region of the wire that forms multiple jet columns which contain micro-bubbles. These columns flow together and penetrate tens of millimeters into the bulk fluid. Bubble behavior on the wire was observed to progress from a dominance of larger isolated bubbles on the wire to a dominance of micro-bubble jet flows on the wire as heat flux was increased. There was also a transient transition from a few large isolated bubbles to micro-bubble jet flow dominance for a set heat flux. A cross correlation calculation provided velocities of micro-bubbles in the flow, which were in the range of 4-14 mm/s. These velocities were used with convection correlations to show that fluid flows induced by jet flows are a significant contributor to the subcooled boiling heat transfer in microgravity, but are not the primary contributor. Additionally, a relative bubble area analysis approximates the direct contribution of these jet flows to the overall heat dissipation. These micro-bubble jet flows, which are only observed on thin wires (not flat surfaces), and the convection currents they induce, have the potential to allow for sustained fluid motion to occur in microgravity.
Self-repairable GALs

This paper describes the concept of self-testable and self-repairable Generic Array Logic (GAL) devices for high security and safety applications. A design methodology is proposed for self-repairing of a GAL which is a kind of Electrically Programmable Logic Devices (EPLDs). The fault-locating and fault-repairing architecture with electrically re-configurable GALs is presented. It uses universal test sets, fault-detecting logic, and self-repairing circuits with spare devices. The design method allows to detect, diagnose, and repair of all multiple stuck-at faults which might occur on E2CMOS cells in programmable AND plane. A self-repairing methodology is presented, based on our design architecture. A “column replacement” method with extra columns is introduced that discards each faulty column entirely and replaces it with an extra column. The evaluation methodology proves that a self-repairable GAL will last longer in the field. It gives also information on how many extra columns a GAL needs to reach a lifetime goal, in terms of simulation looping time, until the GAL is not useful any more. Therefore, an ideal point could be estimated, where the maximum reliability can be reached with the minimum cost.
Propellant-based inhalers for the non-invasive delivery of genes via oral inhalation.

Abstract In this work we describe the development of a propellant-based, portable oral inhalation platform for the pulmonary delivery of genes. A core–shell strategy is utilized to efficiently disperse cationic-polymer-DNA nanoparticles in hydrofluoroalkane propellants, and to generate aerosols from the corresponding pressurized metered-dose inhaler formulations (pMDIs) that have excellent aerosol characteristics, suitable for deep lung deposition. The engineered polyplexes and core–shell structures were fully characterized, and their ability to transfect model lung alveolar epithelium cells in vitro was demonstrated. We also show that the propellant does not affect the biological activity of the plasmid DNA, and that the core–shell formulations have no in vitro cytotoxicity. The relevance of this work stems from the fact that pMDIs are the least expensive and most widely used portable oral inhalation devices, and are thus promising platforms for targeting genes to the lungs for the treatment of medically relevant diseases including asthma, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer.
Roles of N-type and Q-type Ca2+ channels in supporting hippocampal synaptic transmission

Several types of calcium channels found in the central nervous system are possible participants in triggering neurotransmitter release. Synaptic transmission between hippocampal CA3 and CA1 neurons was mediated by N-type calcium channels, together with calcium channels whose pharmacology differs from that of L- and P-type channels but resembles that of the Q-type channel encoded by the alpha 1A subunit gene. Blockade of either population of channels strongly increased enhancement of synaptic transmission with repetitive stimuli. Even after complete blockade of N-type channels, transmission was strongly modulated by stimulation of neurotransmitter receptors or protein kinase C. These findings suggest a role for alpha 1A subunits in synaptic transmission and support the idea that neurotransmitter release may depend on multiple types of calcium channels under physiological conditions.
Off-line and on-line assay of membrane protein with o-phthaldialdehyde by flow-injection with post-column reaction

Abstract A rapid and convenient flow-injection absorption spectrosphotometric procedure was developed for the determination of protein and peptide concentrations in discrete samples that contain biological membranes (subcellular particles) which scatter light. With some modification, the same system serves as a post-column reactor to determine protein and peptide concentrations continuously in the effluent of a separation device. The procedure is based on the well known determination of primary amines by reaction with a thiol and o -phthaldialdehyde. Although designed for preparations of biological membranes, the procedure is applicable to any solution in which the primary amino groups are predominantly those belonging to the proteins and/or peptides present; this includes many protein solutions which are turbid at acidic or neutral pH but clear at alkaline pH. The off-line flow-injection procedure for discrete samples and the on-line post-column reactor for flowing column effluents have been found especially useful for determining the distribution of membrane protein in the chanel effluent after fractionation of subcellular particle preparations containing corn root mitochondria and microsomes.
Phospholipase C-γ binds directly to the Na+/H+ exchanger 3 and is required for calcium regulation of exchange activity

Multiple studies suggest that phospholipase C-γ (PLC-γ) contributes to regulation of sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3) in the small intestine, although the mechanism(s) for this regulation remain unknown. We demonstrate here that PLC-γ binds directly to the C terminus of NHE3 and exists in similar sized multiprotein complexes as NHE3. This binding is dynamic and decreases with elevated [Ca2+]i. The PLC-γ-binding site in NHE3 was identified (amino acids 586–605) and shown to be a critical regulatory domain for protein complex formation, because when it is mutated, NHE3 binding to PLC-γ as well as NHERF2 is lost. An inhibitory peptide, which binds to the Src homology 2 domains contained in PLC-γ without interrupting binding of PLC-γ to NHE3, was used to probe a non-lipase-dependent role of PLC-γ. In the presence of this peptide, carbachol-stimulated calcium inhibition of NHE3 was lost. These results mirror previous studies with the transient receptor potential channel and suggest that PLC-γ may play a common role in regulating the cell-surface expression of ion transporters.
Isolation of human salivary mucin MG2 by a novel method and characterization of its interactions with oral bacteria.

Human salivary mucin MG2 was purified from submandibular/sublingual gland secretion by ultrafiltration and sequential gel filtration chromatography on Sephadex G-200, Superose 6 (prepgrade), and Superose 6. This method differs from earlier procedures in that all steps are performed in the presence of 4 M guanidine hydrochloride and do not involve covalent modification of the mucin molecule. Electrophoretic analyses and Western blotting showed that purified MG2 did not contain detectable levels of other salivary proteins. Amino acid analysis showed that the composition of purified MG2 was in excellent agreement with the deduced sequence of MG2 apomucin encoded in the MUC7 gene. The yield of purified MG2 was 10-15 mg from 750 ml of salivary secretion. Binding of purified MG2 to Streptococcus mutans in vitro was not significantly affected by reductive methylation, but was nearly abolished by reduction and alkylation. These data identified a functional determinant for mucin-bacterial interactions in the N-terminal region where the only two cysteines (Cys45 and Cys50) in the MG2 apomucin occur. Additionally, purified MG2 bound to four strains of oral Streptococci, indicating that the binding is not dependent on complexing with other salivary proteins, such as secretory immunoglobulin A. The purification procedure described in this work will facilitate investigation of the role of MG2 in the oral environment.
Elastic scattering and radiative capture of protons by C13

Measurements of the elastic scattering of protons by C/sup 13/ from 140 to 750 kev proton energy are reported. The radiative capture of protons by C/sup 13/ was investigated down to a proton energy of 130 kev, but no new levels were found that would influence the cross section at stellar energies. The only new level found had a resonance energy of 448.5 plus or minus 0.5 kev. An upper limit is placed on the strength of radiative capture by any missed levels. Angular distribution measurements, combined with the results of N/sup 14/ (alpha,alpha') by other workers led to an assignment J pi = 2- for the 448-kev resonance (7.968-Mev excitation). From the same target used for the C/sup 13/(p, gamma ) measurements, the yield of C/sup 12/(p, gamma ) radiation was measured, and the cross sections of both reactions are extrapolated to stellar energies. The extrapolated cross section factor S/sub 0/ at 25-kev C.M. proton energy is 6.0 plus or minus 0.8 kevbarn for the C/sup 13/,(p, gamma ) reaction and is 1.33 plus or minus 0.15 kev-barn for the C/sup 12/(p, gamma ) reaction. The equilibrium ratio by number of erature of 15 x 10/sup 6/ deg K.more » (auth)« less
Linking Water-Balance Simulation and Multiobjective Programming: Land-Use Plan Design in Hawaii

In the Hawaiian Islands, planners and public officials have decided recently to raise the permissible level of urban development in central Oahu. The decision is opposed by many on the grounds that it threatens agricultural land as well as the sustainability of groundwater supply. A two-part procedure is presented for exploring the impacts of such development and designing urban-expansion patterns that minimize them. First, a water-balance simulation model is used to calculate groundwater recharge as it varies with land use and location within the area. The difference between recharge and withdrawal is computed, and any changes are then estimated for different land uses. This information is then incorporated into optimization models having objectives related to agricultural land retention, groundwater balance, and residential population growth. The models generate alternative land-use expansion plans and show the trade-offs among objectives. The consideration of slightly suboptimal (dominated) solutions a...
Variable-Retention Harvesting as a Silvicultural Option for Lodgepole Pine

Bark beetle-induced mortality in forested landscapes of structurally uniform, even-aged lodgepole pine stands has inspired a growing interest in the potential of silvicultural treatments to enhance resilience by increasing spatial and vertical complexity. Silvicultural treatments can simulate mixed-severity disturbances that create multiaged lodgepole pine stands, which, along with heterogeneous forest landscapes, can play a role in mitigating susceptibility to primary disturbance agents (bark beetles and wildfire). With this article, we review multiaged lodgepole pine stand dynamics and discuss variable-retention harvesting as a silvicultural option for lodgepole pine. We describe the establishment and initial outcomes of an experimental variable-retention harvesting project established at the Tenderfoot Creek Experimental Forest (Montana) in 1999‐2003 and the objectives of a collaborative multiagency effort that is presently revisiting and analyzing that experiment.
Modeling above-zone measurements of pressure and temperature for monitoring CCS sites

Abstract Geologic storage of CO2 for atmospheric emissions reductions imposes unique requirements to document containment. Monitoring pressure in strata above the injection interval is a fit-to-purpose technique to document performance of the confining system and the degree of isolation provided by existing wellbore completions. The Cranfield (Mississippi, USA) enhanced oil recovery and sequestration project provides downhole high-precision pressure and temperature measurements at an observation well at two depths: at the injection interval and at a selected above zone monitoring interval (AZMI). To attempt to reconcile disparate observations from the pressure and temperature measurements, we present a simple set of coupled analytical models that enable diagnosis of above-zone monitoring data. Concurrent pressure and temperature measurements are especially valuable because they independently constrain the effective permeability of a leakage path along wellbore. Application of the models to the Cranfield data shows that the observed pressure elevation requires a model with an extremely large leakage rate and an effective wellbore permeability in order of tens of darcies. The temperature model shows that this rate would be large enough to raise the temperature in the monitoring zone significantly, which is not observed. We conclude that the observation well is unlikely to be leaking.
Developmental relationships between trigeminal ganglia and trigeminal motoneurons in chick embryos. I. Ganglion development is necessary for motoneuron migration

The migration and early development of trigeminal (V) motoneurons were studied in chick embryos in which two different populations of primary trigeminal sensory neurons had been removed prior to the birthdate of the V motoneurons. Ablation of mesencephalic neural crest cells, which eliminates monosynaptic sensory input, did not affect the migration, early development, or later differentiation of the V motoneurons. However, when the anlagen of the V ganglion were removed, the V motor root did not exit from the brainstem and the V motor nucleus did not develop. Although the neurons of the V ganglion do not innervate adult V motoneurons, these populations are related developmentally. In those embryos in which the V ganglion did not develop, medial column cells, which are midline, postmitotic, premigratory V motoneurons, and a few medial, elongated cells (possibly migratory) were present until days 5-6, but these cells did not complete their lateral migration to form the lateral nucleus of V. In cases where the ganglion anlagen were not completely removed, the number of postmigratory V motoneurons was positively correlated to the size of the ganglion remnant. There also was a correlation between the axial position of the postmigratory V motoneurons and the ganglion remnants. If a caudal remnant developed, only caudal V motoneurons, whose axons reached the ganglion, migrated; if a rostral remnant developed, only rostral V motoneurons, with axons reaching this remnant, migrated. Additionally, if the central axons of the ganglion remnant entered the metencephalon in either dorsal or ventral ectopic positions, the V motor nucleus was located in a corresponding aberrant position. Thus, some characteristic of the V ganglion cells appears to guide the motor axons and somas to their final brainstem position.
Material modeling of the head’s subarachnoid space

Abstract The goal of this study is to investigate the mechanotransduction of an external load to the brain and the causation of concussion and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). However, as one step toward this goal, in this paper, the investigation of the material model selection and material properties of the subarachnoid space (SAS) are presented. As the interface between the skull and the brain, the material modeling of SAS plays an important role in the analysis of damping and movement of the brain within the skull, leading to TBI. Based on the histology and morphology of the SAS region, three material types, namely, soft solid, viscous fluid and porous media were proposed. To validate these material models, the relative displacement between the skull and the brain was compared with the experimental study. It was concluded that the optimum material properties of the three material models are for soft solid material, E = 1000 Pa , for viscous fluid, μ = 0.25 Pa.s , and for porous media, the permeability of 3.125×10 −10 m 2 . The results indicated that the properties determined in this study for the three material models are appropriate and reliable for future investigations. That is, if one decides to use any of these materials to model the SAS, in local or global FE analyses, these values are suitable.
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Cytokines and Fibroblast Growth factor-2 Stimulate Human Endothelial Cell-Pericyte Tube Co-Assembly in 3D Fibrin Matrices under Serum-Free Defined Conditions

We describe a novel 3D fibrin matrix model using recombinant hematopoietic stem cell cytokines under serum-free defined conditions which promotes the assembly of human endothelial cell (EC) tubes with co-associated pericytes. Individual ECs and pericytes are randomly mixed together and EC tubes form that is accompanied by pericyte recruitment to the EC tube abluminal surface over a 3-5 day period. These morphogenic processes are stimulated by a combination of the hematopoietic stem cell cytokines, stem cell factor, interleukin-3, stromal derived factor-1α, and Flt-3 ligand which are added in conjunction with fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2 into the fibrin matrix. In contrast, this tube morphogenic response does not occur under serum-free defined conditions when VEGF and FGF-2 are added together in the fibrin matrices. We recently demonstrated that VEGF and FGF-2 are able to prime EC tube morphogenic responses (i.e. added overnight prior to the morphogenic assay) to hematopoietic stem cell cytokines in collagen matrices and, interestingly, they also prime EC tube morphogenesis in 3D fibrin matrices. EC-pericyte interactions in 3D fibrin matrices leads to marked vascular basement membrane assembly as demonstrated using immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, we show that hematopoietic stem cell cytokines and pericytes stimulate EC sprouting in fibrin matrices in a manner dependent on the α5β1 integrin. This novel co-culture system, under serum-free defined conditions, allows for a molecular analysis of EC tube assembly, pericyte recruitment and maturation events in a critical ECM environment (i.e. fibrin matrices) that regulates angiogenic events in postnatal life.
A high-performance communication service for parallel computing on distributed DSP systems

Rapid increases in the complexity of algorithms for real-time signal processing applications have led to performance requirements exceeding the capabilities of conventional digital signal processor (DSP) architectures. Many applications, such as autonomous sonar arrays, are distributed in nature and amenable to parallel computing on embedded systems constructed from multiple DSPs networked together. However, to realize the full potential of such applications, a lightweight service for message-passing communication and parallel process coordination is needed that is able to provide high throughput and low latency while minimizing processor and memory utilization. This paper presents the design and analysis of such a service, based on the message passing interface specification, for unicast and collective communications.
Compatibility of levofloxacin injection and magnesium sulfate.

Canann et al.[1][1] noted the lack of visual incompatibility when levofloxacin and magnesium sulfate were combined. Fluoroquinolones should not be infused through the same line with any solution containing multivalent cations (e.g., magnesium) because the antibiotic will become inactivated from
Analytical electron microscopy in mineralogy; exsolved phases in pyroxenes

Abstract Analytical scanning transmission electron microscopy has been successfully used to characterize the structure and composition of lamellar exsolution products in pyroxenes. At operating voltages of 100 and 200 keV, microanalytical techniques of x-ray energy analysis, convergent-beam electron diffraction, and lattice imaging have been used to chemically and structurally characterize exsolution lamellae only a few unit cells wide. Quantitative X-ray energy analysis using ratios of peak intensities has been adopted for the U.S. Geological Survey AEM in order to study the compositions of exsolved phases and changes in compositional profiles as a function of time and temperature. The quantitative analysis procedure involves 1) removal of instrument-induced background, 2) reduction of contamination, and 3) measurement of correction factors obtained from a wide range of standard compositions. The peak-ratio technique requires that the specimen thickness at the point of analysis be thin enough to make absorption corrections unnecessary (i.e., to satisfy the “thin-foil criteria”). In pyroxenes, the calculated “maximum thicknesses” range from 130 to 1400 nm for the ratios Mg/Si, Fe/Si, and Ca/Si; these “maximum thicknesses” have been contoured in pyroxene composition space as a guide during analysis. Analytical spatial resolutions of 50–100 nm have been achieved in AEM at 200 keV from the composition-profile studies, and analytical reproducibility in AEM from homogeneous pyroxene standards is ± 1.5 mol% endmember.
Fitting Characteristics of Eighteen N95 Filtering-Facepiece Respirators

Four performance measures were used to evaluate the fitting characteristics of 18 models of N95 filtering-facepiece respirators: (1) the 5th percentile simulated workplace protection factor (SWPF) value, (2) the shift average SWPF value, (3) the h-value, and (4) the assignment error. The effect of fit-testing on the level of protection provided by the respirators was also evaluated. The respirators were tested on a panel of 25 subjects with various face sizes. Simulated workplace protection factor values, determined from six total penetration (face-seal leakage plus filter penetration) tests with re-donning between each test, were used to indicate respirator performance. Five fit-tests were used: Bitrex™, saccharin, generated aerosol corrected for filter penetration, PortaCount® Plus corrected for filter penetration, and the PortaCount Plus with the N95-Companion™ accessory. Without fit-testing, the 5th percentile SWPF for all models combined was 2.9 with individual model values ranging from 1.3 to 48.0. ...
A note on the Schwarzian triangle functions

A classical result in the theory of elliptical functions states that . The function K 2 belongs to an important class of functions called the Schwarzian triangle function, for it maps a curvilinear triangle conformally to the upper half plane. The above identity reveals an interesting relation between a hypergeometric function and a Schwarzian triangle function. The purpose of this paper is to clarify the connection between the hypergeometric function F((1/2 − (1/2n), (1/2) + (1/2n), 1,z and the associated Schwarzian triangle function. In particular, in Theorem 2, we prove that all the major features of the above classical result remain valid for a class of hypergeometric functions called the Legendre functions.
Dynamic Sampling of Cabin VOCs during the Mission Operations Test of the Deep Space Habitat

The atmospheric composition inside spacecraft is dynamic due to changes in crew metabolism and payload operations. A portable FTIR gas analyzer was used to monitor the atmospheric composition of four modules (Core lab, Veggie Plant Atrium, Hygiene module, and Xhab loft) within the Deep Space Habitat '(DSH) during the Mission Operations Test (MOT) conducted at the Johnson Space Center. The FTIR was either physically relocated to a new location or the plumbing was changed so that a different location was monitored. An application composed of 20 gases was used and the FTIR was zeroed using N2 gas every time it was relocated. The procedures developed for operating the FTIR were successful as all data was collected and the FTIR worked during the entire MOT mission. Not all the 20 gases in the application sampled were detected and it was possible to measure dynamic VOC concentrations in each DSH location.
Putin's "historic mission" state-building and the power ministries in the North Caucasus

Putin has restored order in Russia, but fulfillment of his self-imposed mission depends on whether he can translate order into long-term improvements in state capacity.
Effects of dibutryl cyclic-3',5'-AMP and other agents upon luteinization of porcine granulosa cells in culture.

N6-2-O-dibutryl cyclic-3′,5′-AMP and cyclic-3′,5′-AMP but not ATP or AMP brought about epithelial growth, an increase in lipid droplets and granules and an increase in progestin secretion in cultures of granulosa cells harvested from 3–5 mm follicles of 4–6 month old pig ovaries. The effects were similar to those of porcine LH and FSH. Aminophylline potentiated the effect of LH and cyclic-3–,5–-AMP. These data suggest that gonadotrophin induction of luteinization of the granulosa cell may be mediated by an increase of cyclic-3′,5′-AMP due to gonadotrophin action. (Endocrinology 87: 165, 1970) IT HAS BEEN demonstrated that addition of N6-2-O-dibutryl cyclic-3′,5′-AMP (DBC) to cultures of granulosa cells harvested from any sized follicle of ovaries of rhesus monkeys caused the cells to luteinize (1). LH and FSH together produced a similar luteinization response in cells harvested from small 1 mm follicles; LH and FSH alone produced luteinization in medium sized follicles harvested from days 7 to 11 of the m...
Identification of a T-cell-specific enhancer at the locus encoding T-cell antigen receptor gamma chain.

Abstract The gamma delta and alpha beta T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) heterodimers are expressed in a lineage-specific, mutually exclusive manner. Regulation of expression occurs at the transcriptional level. A 13-kilobase (kb) stretch of DNA encompassing variable-joining-constant segments V gamma 4-J gamma 1-C gamma 1 of the murine gamma-chain gene was examined for the presence of transcriptional enhancing elements by a transient transfection assay. DNA fragments from this region were inserted into a test plasmid containing a heterologous promoter fused to the human growth hormone gene. An 1800-base-pair (bp) fragment located 3 kb 3' to C gamma exon III was found to display enhancing activity in several T-cell lines. Maximum enhancing activity could be localized further to fragments as small as 400 bp in some cell lines. Nucleotide sequence analysis of this 400-bp segment revealed homologies to previously described core enhancer elements and to other TCR gene enhancers. The TCR gamma-chain gene enhancer is active in both gamma delta and alpha beta T cells, indicating that it is not primarily responsible for lineage-specificity of expression, but it is inactive in non-T-cells.
A framework for optimizing thermoelectric active cooling systems

Thin-film thermoelectric cooling is a promising technology for mitigating heat dissipation in high performance chips. In this paper, we present an optimization framework for an active cooling system that is comprised of an array of thin-film thermoelectric coolers. We observe a set of constraints of the cooling system design. Firstly, integrating an excessive amount of coolers increases the chip package cost. Moreover, thermoelectric coolers are active devices, which dissipate heat in the chip package when they are in operation. Hence, setting the supply current level to operate the cooler improperly can actually lead to overheating of the chip package. Besides, the supply current needs to be delivered to the integrated cooler devices via dedicated pins. However, extra pins available on high-performance chip packages are limited. Observing these constraints, we propose an optimization framework for configuring the active cooling system, which minimizes the maximum silicon temperature. This includes determining the amount of coolers to deploy and their locations, the mapping of supply pins to the coolers, and determining the current levels of each pin. We propose algorithms to tackle the optimal configuration problem. We found that only a small portion of the silicon die needs to be covered by TEC devices (18% on average). Our experiments show that our algorithms are able to reduce the temperatures of the hot spots by as much as 10.6 °C (compared to the cases without integrated thermoelectric coolers). The average temperature reduction is 8.6 °C when 4 dedicated pins are available on the package. The total power consumption of the resulting active cooling system is reasonably small (~ 2 W). Our experiments also reveal that our framework maximizes the efficiency of the cooling devices. In the ideal case where hundreds of pins are available to tune the supply level of each individual cooler, the additional average reduction of the hot spot temperature is only 0.3 °C.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol: An inhibitor of STAT1α protein tyrosine phosphorylation☆

Abstract Tyrosine-phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 alpha (STAT1α) is a 91-kDa protein responsible for interferon-γ (IFN-γ)-dependent transcription. The present study demonstrates that activation by IFN-γ of murine macrophages resulted in tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT1α identified by immunoprecipitation. The tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT1α was found highly sensitive to treatment by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a major marijuana component. Subsequently, the isoform formation of p91 due to tyrosine phosphorylation was reduced in THC-treated macrophages. Although inhibition by THC of the tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT1α induced by IFN-γ was in a THC concentration-related manner, the tyrosine phosphorylation of other proteins induced by lipopolysaccharide/IFN-γ treatment of macrophages appeared insensitive to THC treatment. Our data suggest that blockade by THC of tyrosine phosphorylation of STAT1α may be an important mechanism involved in the broad immunosuppressive effects of THC.
Dose-time-response modeling of longitudinal measurements for neurotoxicity risk assessment

Neurotoxic effects are an important non-cancer endpoint in health risk assessment and environmental regulation. Neurotoxicity tests such as neurobehavioral screenings using a functional observational battery generate longitudinal dose–response data to profile neurological effects over time. Analyses of longitudinal neurotoxicological data have mostly relied on analysis of variance; explicit dose–time–response modeling has not been reported in the literature. As dose–response modeling has become an increasingly indispensible component in risk assessment as required by the use of benchmark doses, there are strong interests in and needs for appropriate dose–response models, effective model-fitting techniques, and computation methods for benchmark dose estimation. In this article we propose a family of dose–time–response models, illustrate statistical inference of these models in conjunction with random-effects to quantify inter-subject variation, and describe a procedure to profile benchmark dose across time. We illustrate the methods through a dataset from a US/EPA experiment involving the FOB tests on rats administered to a single dose of triethyl tin (TET). The results indicate that the existing functional observational battery data can be utilized for dose–response and benchmark dose analyses and the methods can be applied in general settings of neurotoxicity risk assessment. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cadaveric renal transplantation in children.

Abstract 29 children aged 18 months to 18 years received 32 cadaveric renal transplants between February, 1968, and August, 1970. 25 children (86%) and 22 allografts (69%) are surviving 6 to 32 months after transplantation. Growth has occurred in 4 of 5 children whose bone age was less than 12 years at the time of transplantation and who survived more than a year with good allograft function. Knowledge of the source of the kidney did not interfere with emotional adjustment or rehabilitation.
Brief communication: preliminary radiocarbon dates from Florida crania in Hrdlička's gulf states catalog.

Ales Hrdlicka produced a tremendous amount of data in his career, much of which was published in a series of catalogs by the US National Museum. The Gulf States catalog, for example, contains raw craniometric data for over 700 individuals from the state of Florida alone. However, many of these skeletons are poorly sourced by Hrdlicka, thus limiting their utility in modern bioarchaeological analyses where context is critical. In particular, the age of the skeletal material is often based solely on associated material culture and information on the sites themselves is not presented by Hrdlicka. To address this impasse we attempted radiocarbon dates for 10 of the largest Florida sites published in the Gulf States catalog. In addition, archival data in the form of unpublished field notes and personal correspondence were accessed to better contextualize the radiocarbon dates and to provide some guidance on the degree of temporal variability at the sites. Eight AMS radiocarbon dates were successful. Archival data was of variable quality per site. In some cases very little is known about the provenience of the specimens. In other cases, however, individual burials could be allocated to specific strata within specific mounds. The relevance of using published raw data is discussed with respect to the Howells and Boas Immigrant datasets and the impact the dissemination of these resources has had on the discipline. Am J Phys Anthropol 145:163–167, 2011. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Equivalent Barge and Flotilla Impact Forces on Bridge Piers

Bridge piers located in navigable inland waterways are designed to resist impact forces from barges and flotillas in addition to other design considerations (e.g., scour dead, live loads, etc.). The primary design tool for estimating these forces is the AASHTO Guide Specification that provides a simple hand calculation method to determine an “equivalent impact force.” The simplicity comes at a cost of excluding the effect of the pier shape, impact duration, and interaction between barges in a flotilla. The objective of this paper is to present a hand calculation method for determining barge or flotilla impact forces on bridge piers. The primary advantage of this approach lies in its incorporation of pier geometry, interaction between barges, and impact duration. The proposed method is derived from the conduct of hundreds of finite-element dynamic simulations of jumbo hopper (JH) barges and flotillas, made up of JH barges, impacting bridge piers. Results are presented and compared with those derived from t...
Myelosuppression in patients benefiting from imatinib with hydroxyurea for recurrent malignant gliomas.

Reports suggest reasonable efficacy and minimal myelosuppression from combination imatinib and hydroxyurea for recurrent malignant glioma. We retrospectively reviewed 16 patients treated with this regimen who were evaluable for toxicity; 14 were also evaluable for response. The incidence of grade 3–4 hematologic toxicity was 25%. The best radiographic response, by Macdonald criteria, was partial response (PR) in three patients (21%), stable disease (SD) in four (29%), and progressive disease (PD) in seven (50%). One patient with a PR developed therapy-limiting hematologic toxicity on day 19 of treatment, progressing to grade 4 on day 64, and persisting until death on day 127 despite discontinuing both drugs. Another patient with PR and two of four patients with SD also developed grade 3 hematologic toxicity. All patients with grade 3–4 hematologic toxicity had disease control (PR or SD) as best radiographic response, whereas none with PD suffered grade 3–4 hematologic toxicity. Combining imatinib with hydroxyurea is effective in some patients with malignant glioma. However, myelosuppression can persist for months after discontinuing the regimen, precluding further chemotherapy. Disease control may also correlate with hematologic toxicity (p = 0.08), suggesting that glioma and marrow stem cells may share a common sensitivity to this chemotherapy regimen.
Spin fluctuations at magnetic phase transitions in CMR manganites

Abstract We present the results of an investigation into the nature of magnetic phase transitions in CMR manganites, using small-angle neutron scattering and single-crystal neutron and X-ray diffraction. In the perovskite compound, Nd 0.5 Sr 0.5 MnO 3 , we observe a second-order phase transition at 250 K to a ferromagnetic phase characterized by a divergent correlation length and conventional critical exponents. At 155 K, a first-order phase transition to an antiferromagnetic phase is observed with evidence for both magnetic and orbital ordering. In the layered manganite, La 1.2 Sr 1.8 Mn 2 O 7 , the measured correlation length is only weakly temperature dependent above T C , but may result from nuclear rather than magnetic correlations.
Profiles of dissolved and particulate thorium isotopes in the water column of coastal Southern California

Abstract Profiles of 234 Th, 232 Th, and 230 Th in the Santa Monica Basin were measured. 234 Th in the upper part of the water column suggests that the residence time of dissolved 234 Th, with respect to adsorption onto and removal by particles, increases with depth, from 3–4 weeks at the surface to > 5 months below the euphotic zone. The partition of 234 Th between dissolved and particulate forms points to a residence time of 4–7 days for particulate 234 Th in the surface euphotic zone. Rapid removal of particulate 234 Th from the surface water precludes the possibility of an adsorption-desorption equilibrium state between dissolved and particulate 234 Th. Based on the 230 Th data, the overall residence time of dissolved Th in the water column is estimated at 5–6 years. Both dissolved 230 Th and 232 Th profiles exhibit higher concentrations at the surface than immediately underneath, suggesting a terrestrial input for them. From the surface to the bottom of the water column, the concentration of dissolved 232 Th decreases by a factor of 3–4, and the dissolved 230 Th/ 232 Th activity ratio increases by a factor of about five (from 2–3 to 9–12). This reflects the surface source of the terrestrial end-member and its removal at depth. On the average about 6% of the 234 Th, 25% of the 230 Th, and 50% of the 232 Th were found in the particulate form, which is as expected and relates to their respective sources, to the difference in radioactive decay half-life, and to the kinetics of the scavenging process.
Food Pantry Nutrition Education about Whole Grains and Self‐Efficacy

The purpose of this quasi-experimental 4-week study was to examine the effects of a nutrition-education intervention on perceptions about increasing whole-grain food consumption and self-efficacy in choosing and preparing foods that include whole grains. The theoretical framework was the social cognitive theory. The sample included 205 food pantry clients who participated in the study and 204 food pantry clients who were the control group. The 205 participants tasted a chicken-and-whole-grain pasta dish and then were given the ingredients and invited to prepare the recipe at home. The 204 members of the control group did not receive the intervention. Food pantry clients in the intervention group completed verbal interviews before the intervention and 1 week and 1 month after the intervention. Both perception of whole-grain consumption and self-efficacy improved significantly for the intervention group compared with the control group. The results suggest that nutrition education consisting of tasting a food followed by preparing it at home can influence perceptions about eating more whole-grain foods and self-efficacy in choosing and preparing foods that include whole grains.
Prediction of the severity of pre-eclampsia by utero-placental Doppler studies

SummaryWhether or not Doppler studies of the utero-placental circulation can help indicate which hypertensive pregnancies will develop other features of pre-eclampsia was investigated. A prospective, longitudinal study of utero-placental blood velocity waveform by continuous wave Doppler ultrasound in third trimester hypertensive pregnancies was conducted. Sixty patients were referred for investigation of hypertension in the third trimester of pregnancy; 25 subsequently developed other features of pre-eclampsia. Uterine blood velocity waveforms were assessed by the resistance index and the presence or absence of a dichrotic notch. Proteinuria was defined as at least a + on dip-stick testing on two occasions or > 500 mg/24 hours in the absence of urinary infection.Utero-placental Doppler studies were not demonstrated to differ in the patients with proteinuric pre-eclampsia from those with non-proteinuric preeclampsia. Continuous wave Doppler studies of the utero-placental circulation in the third trimester...
To Quench Our Thirst

The eight chapters of this book are directed toward describing its subtitle: “The Present and Future Status of Freshwater Resources of the United States.” One purpose of the book is to dissuade both general readers and technically oriented individuals from believing that the current water problems will either go away on their own or be swept away by governmental action. The authors' concern is that we are currently entering an era in which cheap, clean, and plentiful water may cease to exist in much of the United States. They believe that the nation is experiencing a syndrome of diverse, interrelated events that tend to dwarf the energy crisis in potential significance and overall severity, thereby threatening the security of America's water future.
The relationship between atmospheric light scattering coefficient and visibility

Abstract Koschmieder's formula relating visibility to the extinction coefficient ( L υ = 3.9/ b ) has been verified by comparing simultaneous measurements of both variables at one site. These data suggest that the meteorological range, determined from a point measurement of the scattering coefficient with an integrating nephelometer, is approximately equal to the prevailing visibility determined by an observer looking at prominent dark objects. The quantitative relationship between visibility, total atmospheric scattering coefficient, and aerosol mass concentration is presented and compared with the classical theoretical relationship,