cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effective cache prefetching on bus-based multiprocessors

Compiler-directed cache prefetching has the potential to hide much of the high memory latency seen by current and future high-performance processors. However, prefetching is not without costs, particularly on a shared-memory multiprocessor. Prefetching can negatively affect bus utilization, overall cache miss rates, memory latencies and data sharing. We simulate the effects of a compiler-directed prefetching algorithm, running on a range of bus-based multiprocessors. We show that, despite a high memory latency, this architecture does not necessarily support prefetching well, in some cases actually causing performance degradations. We pinpoint several problems with prefetching on a shared-memory architecture (additional conflict misses, no reduction in the data-sharing traffic and associated latencies, a multiprocessor's greater sensitivity to memory utilization and the sensitivity of the cache hit rate to prefetch distance) and measure their effect on performance. We then solve those problems through architectural techniques and heuristics for prefetching that could be easily incorporated into a compiler: (1) victim caching, which eliminates most of the cache conflict misses caused by prefetching in a direct-mapped cache, (2) special prefetch algorithms for shared data, which significantly improve the ability of our basic prefetching algorithm to prefetch individual misses, and (3) compiler-based shared-data restructuring, which eliminates many of the invalidation misses the basic prefetching algorithm does not predict. The combined effect of these improvements is to make prefetching effective over a much wider range of memory architectures.
Adsorption of trimethylamine on zirconium silicate and polyethylene powder surfaces

Sorptive interactions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with indoor surfaces play a major role in inhalation exposure to these species. Using ZrSiO4 and polyethylene (PE) to model mineral surfaces and carpeting, respectively, the adsorption behavior of gaseous trimethylamine (TMA) was examined under conditions of 80% relative humidity (RH) in N2 and in the presence of 1000 ppm CO2 or NH3. TMA adsorption and desorption behavior were studied using attenuated total reflection infrared (ATR-IR) and X-ray photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopies. Spectral data revealed that TMA adsorbed on both surfaces in a protonated state. Stronger adsorption was observed to occur on ZrSiO4. XPS scans indicate that the “dry” ZrSiO4 surface maintains OH groups available for bonding, supporting earlier research showing that partition coefficients increase as RH decreases. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Third party bargaining and contract terms: a link over time?

Objective To evaluate whether prior pharmacy bargaining process strategies and pharmacy dependence on third parties affect the bargaining power of pharmacies in price negotiations with third parties. Design One-time survey. Setting Random sample of 900 independent and small chain pharmacies in nine states: Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Kentucky, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Participants Two hundred sixteen of the returned surveys contained sufficient responses for this analysis. Interventions Survey data on pharmacy bargaining power and prior pharmacy bargaining strategies, pharmacy dependence, and market characteristics were analyzed using multiple regression in a previously developed and modified provider/third party bargaining model. Main Outcome Measure Pharmacy bargaining power. Results Pharmacy bargaining power varied across our sample. Pharmacy bargaining power was positively related to whether a pharmacy previously bargained with the third parties, negatively related to prior requests for contract changes, and negatively related to the pharmacy's dependence on third parties in total. Conclusion Pharmacy bargaining power is related to the bargaining strategies employed by pharmacies during the previous year and the dependence of pharmacies on third party payers in total. With the prevalence of “take-it-or-leave-it” contracts from third parties, prior pharmacy bargaining behavior may affect the initial terms of the contracts that pharmacies are offered.
Effective conductivity of polycrystalline graphite

Abstract An effective conductivity (thermal or electrical) is derived for polycrystalline graphite using a very simple approach. The material is modeled as a series of links and junctions, the former representing the crystallies and the latter the intercrystallite region. The large anisotropy of the principal conductivities permits definition of an excluded region in which conduction contributes negligibly to the overall thermal/electrical transport. Two approximations are obtained for the value of the excluded region, which depend not only upon the principal conductivities ratio, but also upon the crystallite shape anisotropy. This model allows estimation of the effective conductivity of polycrystalline graphite from a knowledge of the principal conductivities ratio, the conductivity along the graphite basal plane, the microstructural features (crystallite shape and size, number, and geometry of intercrystallite contacts per crystallite), and the density. Applications to nuclear-grade graphites gave satisfactory agreement with experimentally measured electrical and thermal conductivities.
Barriers to the Adoption of Sustainable Agriculture on Rented Land: An Examination of Contesting Social Fields*

While over half of the cropland in the United States is rented, interest in land tenancy within sociological circles has been sporadic at best. In light of the prevalence of rented land in agriculture—particularly in the Midwest—it is vital that further research be conducted to investigate the effect that the rental relationship has upon the various aspects of rural life. This paper takes a step in this direction by examining the social dynamics among landlords, tenants, and agricultural agency professionals to better understand how those dynamics affect the adoption of sustainable agricultural methods on rented land. This paper is theoretically informed by the writings of Pierre Bourdieu, particularly his theory of practice and his concepts of “habitus” and “field.” Toward this end, I argue that multiple (yet overlapping) social fields make up the social body of production agriculture, leading to contestation and field reconstruction. In developing this argument, a strategy for change is presented in accordance with the conceptual postulates of Bourdieu's theory of practice to promote a more widespread utilization of sustainable agricultural practices on rented land.
Genres of Conscience in Greenes Vision, the Groatsworth of Wit, and The Repentance of Robert Greene

AbstractThe bewildering variety of genres present in Robert Greene’s repentance pamphlets provide markedly different vocal environments in which the first-person narrators of these works speak. As the discourse of conscience penetrates Greene’s textual persona in successive genres of the pamphlets, a sense of mutual entanglement envelops the voices of conscience and ‘Greene.’ The rich scriptural, devotional, documentary, and literary material underwriting the generic diversity of the pamphlets modulates the competing claims that ‘Greene’ and conscience make on the narrator’s voice. In some cases, these modulations provide much latitude for Greene’s persona to speak; in other instances, they work to restrict ‘Greene’ by yoking the narrator’s voice to recited idioms of confessional prayer or to comparably restrictive formal features of precept or lament which lay claim to a type of traditionally sourced authority for the voice of conscience in the pamphlets. Ultimately, however, the dependence of conscience...
Large-scale silicic alkalic magmatism associated with the Buckhorn Caldera, Trans-Pecos Texas, USA: comparison with Pantelleria, Italy

Three major rhyolite systems in the northeastern Davis and adjacent Barrilla Mountains include lava units that bracketed a large pantelleritic ignimbrite (Gomez Tuff) in rapid eruptions spanning 300,000 years. Extensive silicic lavas formed the shields of the Star Mountain Formation (37.2 Ma-K/Ar; 36.84 Ma 39Ar/40Ar), and the Adobe Canyon Formation (37.1 Ma-K/Ar; 36.51-39Ar/40Ar). The Gomez Tuff (36.6 Ma-K/Ar; 36.74-39Ar/40Ar) blanketed a large region around the 18×24 km diameter Buckhorn caldera, within which it ponded, forming sections up to 500 m thick. Gomez eruption was preceded by pantelleritic rhyolite domes (36.87, 36.91 Ma-39Ar/40Ar), some of which blocked movement of Star Mountain lava flows. Following collapse, the Buckhorn caldera was filled by trachyte lava. Adobe Canyon rhyolite lavas then covered much of the region. Star Mountain Formation (~220 km3) is composed of multiple flows ranging from quartz trachyte to mildly peralkalic rhyolite; three major types form a total of at least six major flows in the northeastern Davis Mountains. Adobe Canyon Formation (~125 km3) contains fewer flows, some up to 180 m thick, of chemically homogenous, mildly peralkalic comendite, extending up to 40 km. Gomez Tuff (~220 km3) may represent the largest known pantellerite. It is typically less than 100 m thick in extra-caldera sections, where it shows a pyroclastic base and top, although interiors are commonly rheomorphic, containing flow banding and ramp structures. Most sections contain one cooling unit; two sections contain a smaller, upper cooling unit. Chemically, the tuff is fairly homogeneous, but is more evolved than early pantelleritic domes. Overall, although Davis Mountains silicic units were generated through open system processes, the pantellerites appear to have evolved by processes dominated by extensive fractional crystallization from parental trachytes similar to that erupted in pre- and post-caldera lavas. Comparison with the Pantelleria volcano suggests that the most likely parental magma for the Buckhorn series is transitional basalt, similar to that erupted in minor, younger Basin and Range volcanism after about 24 Ma. Roughly contemporaneous mafic lavas associated with the Buckhorn caldera appear to have assimilated or mixed with crustal melts, and, generally, may not be regarded as mafic precursors of the Buckhorn silicic rocks, They thus form a false Daly Gap as opposed to the true basalt/trachyte Daly gap of Pantelleria.
Coordinate phosphorylation of multiple residues on single AKT1 and AKT2 molecules

Aberrant AKT activation is prevalent across multiple human cancer lineages providing an important new target for therapy. Twenty-two independent phosphorylation sites have been identified on specific AKT isoforms likely contributing to differential isoform regulation. However, the mechanisms regulating phosphorylation of individual AKT isoform molecules have not been elucidated because of the lack of robust approaches able to assess phosphorylation of multiple sites on a single AKT molecule. Using a nanofluidic proteomic immunoassay (NIA), consisting of isoelectric focusing followed by sensitive chemiluminescence detection, we demonstrate that under basal and ligand-induced conditions that the pattern of phosphorylation events is markedly different between AKT1 and AKT2. Indeed, there are at least 12 AKT1 peaks and at least 5 AKT2 peaks consistent with complex combinations of phosphorylation of different sites on individual AKT molecules. Following insulin stimulation, AKT1 was phosphorylated at Thr308 in the T-loop and Ser473 in the hydrophobic domain. In contrast, AKT2 was only phosphorylated at the equivalent sites (Thr309 and Ser474) at low levels. Further, Thr308 and Ser473 phosphorylation occurred predominantly on the same AKT1 molecules, whereas Thr309 and Ser474 were phosphorylated primarily on different AKT2 molecules. Although basal AKT2 phosphorylation was sensitive to inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), basal AKT1 phosphorylation was essentially resistant. PI3K inhibition decreased pThr451 on AKT2 but not pThr450 on AKT1. Thus, NIA technology provides an ability to characterize coordinate phosphorylation of individual AKT molecules providing important information about AKT isoform-specific phosphorylation, which is required for optimal development and implementation of drugs targeting aberrant AKT activation.
Effects of sample arm motion in endoscopic polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography

Motion of the sample arm fiber in optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems can dynamically alter the polarization state of light incident on tissue during imaging, with consequences for both conventional and polarization-sensitive (PS-)OCT. Endoscopic OCT is particularly susceptible to polarization-related effects, since in most cases, the transverse scanning mechanism involves motion of the sample arm optical fiber to create an image. We investigated the effects of a scanning sample arm fiber on the polarization state of light in an OCT system, and demonstrate that by referencing the state backscattered from within a sample to the measured state at the surface, changes in polarization state due to sample fiber motion can be isolated. The technique is demonstrated by high-speed PS-OCT imaging at 1 frame per second, with both linear and rotary scanning fiber-optic probes. Measurements were made on a calibrated wave plate, and endoscopic PS-OCT images of ex-vivo human tissues are also presented, allowing comparison with features in histologic sections.
Who Hates Hillary? Public Opinion Toward the First Lady, 1992–1996

This study uses data from the American National Election Studies to investigate the determinants of attitudes toward Hillary Clinton, to examine the sources of the shifts in opinion toward her between 1992–1996, and to analyze the basis of extremely negative attitudes toward the former First Lady. The result of this analysis indicate that feelings toward Hillary Clinton were influenced by two sets of variables, one reflecting partisan and ideological orientations and the other reflecting social and cultural values. Moreover, feelings toward Hillary Clinton in 1996 were more strongly related to these variables than were feelings toward Barbara Bush at a comparable point in her stay in the White House. Also, a number of the variables had a greater impact on feelings toward Hillary Clinton in 1996 than in 1992. Finally, it appears that there are multiple sources for strongly negative attitudes toward the former First Lady.
Density-Induced Phase Separation in Poly(ethylene-co-1-butene)−Dimethyl Ether Solutions

Dynamic light scattering measurements are reported for poly(ethylene-co-20.2 mol % 1-butene) (PEB10) in dimethyl ether (DME) at 110−170 °C and pressures to 2500 bar. The cloud-point curve for the PEB10−DME system exhibits both low- and high-pressure upper consolute solution temperature (UCST) branches. The polymer infinite dilution translational diffusion coefficient, D0, increases with increasing temperature and decreasing pressure as expected. The observed variation of D0 is inversely proportional to the solvent viscosity, indicating that the polymer coil hydrodynamic size is independent of temperature and pressure. The dynamic second virial coefficient, kD, which represents a balance between thermodynamic interactions and hydrodynamic forces, displays values that lie within the bounds expected for ϑ and good solvent conditions. While the low-pressure UCST is classical in that the polymer−solvent interactions become unfavorable upon approach to this phase boundary, the high-pressure UCST branch exhibits...
Hepatocytes of Zones 1 and 3 Conjugate Sulfobromophthalein with Glutathione

The capacity of hepatocytes of Zones 1 and 3 of the liver acinus to conjugate sulfobromophthalein (BSP) with glutathione and to secrete the conjugate into bile was studied. BSP was infused into the in situ perfused rat liver in concentrations of 0.01 and 0.05 mM. Perfusions were performed either in the portal to hepatic vein direction (forward perfusion) or in the hepatic vein to portal vein direction (retrograde perfusion). Hepatocytes contributing to the uptake, metabolism and biliary secretion of BSP were directly assessed qualitatively by light microscopy, and also semiquantitatively by microspectrophotometry. BSP was taken up predominantly by hepatocytes of Zone 1 during forward perfusion and by those of Zone 3 during the retrograde perfusion of BSP. The biliary products of BSP metabolism by each acinar zone were subsequently assessed. Hepatocytes of both Zones 1 and 3 of the acinus secreted BSP into bile in the form of BSP-glutathione, and BSP-glutathione conjugate represented about 78% of the total BSP secreted into bile by each zone. The rate of BSP biliary secretion by both zones was similar at a concentration of 0.01 mM BSP, while a slight decrease (15%) in BSP secretory rate by hepatocytes of zone 3 was observed at concentrations of BSP near biliary Tm. Liver perfusion with exogenous BSP-glutathione provided results similar to those obtained with BSP. In contrast, the perfusion of 3,6- dibromosulphthalein , a compound which is not conjugated by hepatocytes, resulted in similar biliary secretory rates regardless of the direction of perfusion. These results indicate that: (a) the capacity for glutathione conjugation of BSP is distributed among hepatocytes of all acinar zones; (b) near biliary Tm, the biliary secretory rate of BSP by hepatocytes of Zone 3 is slower than that of hepatocytes of zone 1, and (c) in vivo, all hepatocytes likely contribute to the uptake, metabolism and biliary secretion of BSP.
Introduction: genetic principles, approaches and technologies.

The Human Genome Project has catapulted the field of genetics into the forefront of 21st century medicine. There are well over 200 skin disorders with an identifiable genetic cause. Genetic factors may contribute to most, if not all, skin diseases. Thus, the field of genetics has become a fundamental part of clinical dermatology. The purpose of this chapter is to familiarize the clinician with basic genetic principles and technologies. The chapter progresses from chromosomal and Mendelian genetics to techniques used in gene mapping and identification. These core concepts serve as the language of clinical genetics and are essential to understanding the genetic basis of skin disease.
Feeding and oviposition preferences of the sweet potato weevil, Cylas formicarius elegantulus, on the outer periderm and exposed inner core of storage roots of selected sweet potato cultivars

Cores from sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) storage roots, with either the outer periderm or inner core exposed, were presented to female sweet potato weevils, Cylas formicarius elegantulus (Summers) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in cage preference tests. Tests with weevils of different ages showed that feeding was constant 21 to 76 days after emergence, while oviposition showed a slight peak between 21 and 45 days. Differences in the levels of feeding and oviposition were noted for the periderms of four sweet potato cultivars, but these differences were not evident for the inner cores. Oviposition was reduced to low levels on the inner core and, therefore, the oviposition stimulant appears to reside in the root periderm. Feeding did occur on the inner cores, but at a reduced level compared to the root periderm in preference tests where both were available. Inner root cores have a potential use in the elucidation of the oviposition stimulant of the sweet potato weevil. Resume Choix effectues lors de l'alimentation et de la ponte par Cylas formicarius elegantulus entre les peridermes externes et les coeurs de tubercules de cultivars selectionnes d'lpomoea batatas Des coeurs de racines tubereuses d'I. batatas ont ete proposes, soit avec leur periderme externe, soit avec la partie interne du coeur seule, a des femelles du charancon, C. formicarius elegantulus Summers, dans des cages pour exporiences sur le choix. Les coeurs otaient prolevos a l'emportepiece pour liege dans des racines stockees et, apres tirage au hasard, les experiences ont ete distribuees dans des plaques a 24 puits pour cultures de tissus. L'alimentation des charancons de differents âges etait constante du 21eme au 47eme jour apres l'emergence, tandis que la ponte etait maximale entre les 25eme et 45eme jours. Des differences quantitives quant a l'alimentation et a la ponte ont ete observees avec les peridermes de 4 cultivars: Centennial, Jewel, Resisto et Regal; ces differences n'etaient pas nettes pour les parties profondes du coeur. La ponte etait reduite a un niveau bas avec la partie interne du coeur; il semble ainsi qu'un stimulant de la ponte soit contenu dans le periderme de la racine. L'alimentation s'est effectuee sur la partie centrale du coeur, mais moins que sur le periderme, quand les deux etaient disponibles dans des experiences de choix. La ponte parait un meilleur critere que l'alimentation, pour comparer les resistance varietales. La partie interieure du coeur peut etre utilisee pour connaitre le stimulant le stimulant de la ponte de C. formicarius elegantulus.
Analysis of deep‐penetrating radar surveys of West Antarctica, US‐ITASE 2001

[1] We collected 1850 km of ground-based radio echo-sounding (RES) data in West Antarctica along the 2001 US leg of the International Trans-Antarctic Scientific Expedition traverse (US-ITASE). These data represent the first high-resolution measurements of ice thickness and internal stratigraphy for portions of this area that bear on questions about the stability of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS). Internal layers depicting isochrones have been traced continuously for much of the profile length and a date from the Byrd Deep Core is ascribed to one of these isochrones from which we estimate vertical velocities across the traverse route. Comparison of our ice thickness measurements with BEDMAP show good agreement in regions where the database is well constrained by data coverage. Where the BEDMAP dataset was forced to interpolate, differences are as high as 45% of the ice thickness.
Promoting Online Sales of Dental Supplies on a Tight Budget

ABSTRACT Dental offices have been switching to online purchasing of their dental supplies and equipment. This article presents the marketing strategy utilized by a newly created online store for a dental supply company. The online store provides dentists with over 16,000 different dental products from alloys, to dental instruments, to x-ray products. Online sales are a more efficient approach to the traditional catalog method where dentists place orders with a salesperson, call in, or fax their orders. The process and challenges of marketing this website with a tight budget are discussed. Results of the first 2 years of marketing efforts are reported.
Kinematical evidence for top pairs at the Tevatron

We present a top search analysis of W+jet events which combines a study of the kinematic features of the events with a search for bottom quarks.
Preferential phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase tyrosine 861 is critical for mediating an anti-apoptotic response to hyperosmotic stress

The results presented here demonstrate that focal adhesion kinase (FAK) Tyr-861 is the predominant tyrosine phosphorylation site stimulated by hyperosmotic stress in a variety of cell types, including epithelial cell lines (ileum-derived IEC-18, colon-derived Caco2, and stomach-derived NCI-N87), FAK null fibroblasts re-expressing FAK, and Src family kinase triple null fibroblasts (SYF cells) in which c-Src has been restored (YF cells). We show that hyperosmotic stress-stimulated FAK phosphorylation in epithelial cells is inhibited by Src family kinase inhibitors PP2 and SU6656 and that it does not occur in SYF cells. Unexpectedly, hyperosmotic stress-induced phosphorylation of FAK at Tyr-397, Tyr-576, and most dramatically at Tyr-861 was completely insensitive to the F-actin-disrupting agents, latrunculin A and cytochalasin D. Finally, we show that in FAK null cells exposed to hyperosmotic stress or growth factor withdrawal, re-expression of wild type FAK restored cell survival, whereas re-expression of FAK mutated from tyrosine to phenylalanine at position 861 (FAKY861F) did not. Our results indicate that FAK Tyr-861 phosphorylation is required for mammalian cell survival of hyperosmotic stress. Furthermore, the results suggest that FAK is an upstream regulator (rather than downstream effector) of F-actin reorganization in response to hyperosmotic stress. We propose that FAK/c-Src bipartite enzyme is a sensor of cytoplasmic shrinkage, and that the phosphorylation on FAK Tyr-861 by Src and subsequent reorganization of F-actin can initiate an anti-apoptotic signaling pathway that protects cells from hyperosmotic stress.
In vivo elimination of equine antilymphocyte globulin by renal allograft recipients.

Abstract We evaluated the elimination of Minnesota equine ALG-horse γ-globulin (HoGG) in 13 renal allograft recipients. The half-life in plasma of Minnesota ALG-HoGG was 12.1 days (±0.8 SEM). The active fraction was characterized as that fraction from plasma which binds normal peripheral blood lymphocytes. Comparison of the elimination of ALG and the active fraction indicated that total ALG is eliminated with a high degree of homogeneity while the active fraction was eliminated heterogeneously with wide individual variation.
On Generation of Dispersive Long Waves on a Rotating Ocean by Wind Stress Distributions

A study is made of the transient development of dispersive long waves on the surface of a homogeneous rotating shallow ocean due to an arbitrary wind stress distribution which may be steady, oscillatory or transient in character acting on the free surface of the liquid. Attention is given to the effects of the Coriolis force on the wave motions for various ranges of the parameter which is the ratio of the frequency of rotation and the frequency of the imposed atmospheric disturbances. With the aid of the generalized function treatment and the asymptotic methods, the solution of the initial value wave problem related to physically realizable wind stress distributions is obtained. Several limiting cases of interest are discussed. The principal properties of the wave motions are analyzed.
Grid-enabling applications in a heterogeneous environment with globus and condor

The authors Grid-enabled several test applications to conduct experiments that used the Condor Job Manager to schedule code execution across both Globus and Condor resources. Using Condor to manage Globus Grid services in addition to local Condor pools (collections of workstations) increases scheduling flexibility for assigning jobs to the optimal processing locations. In universities, workstations in computer labs can be harnessed when they are closed to students. In other enterprises, employee workstations can become a powerful HPC after work hours. We are also currently implementing a Globus Global Resource Access Manager (GRAM) for a Linux cluster that will also be managed by Condor to bring a third class of system into our heterogeneous environment.
The diagnosis of aspergillosis in birds

The diagnosis of aspergillosis can prove to be a difficult challenge for the avian veterinarian. The diagnosis is based on the cumulative findings resulting from a thorough physical examination, appropriate hematologic and chemistry panel analyte analysis, radiography, endoscopy and laparoscopy, culture, and other ancillary diagnostic tests. Despite many of the advances made in diagnostic ability, the diagnosis is not as easy as it seems. The current methods for the detection and diagnosis of aspergillosis are reviewed.
Polarized Expression of G Protein-coupled Receptors and an All-or-None Discharge of Ca2+ Pools at Initiation Sites of [Ca2+] i Waves in Polarized Exocrine Cells

In the present work we examined localization and behavior of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) in polarized exocrine cells to address the questions of how luminal to basal Ca2+ waves can be generated in a receptor-specific manner and whether quantal Ca2+ release reflects partial release from a continuous pool or an all-or-none release from a compartmentalized pool. Immunolocalization revealed that expression of GPCRs in polarized cells is not uniform, with high levels of GPCR expression at or near the tight junctions. Measurement of phospholipase Cβ activity and receptor-dependent recruitment and trapping of the box domain of RGS4 in GPCRs complexes indicated autonomous functioning of Gq-coupled receptors in acinar cells. These findings explain the generation of receptor-specific Ca2+ waves and why the waves are always initiated at the apical pole. The initiation site of Ca2+ wave at the apical pole and the pattern of wave propagation were independent of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate concentration. Furthermore, a second Ca2+ wave with the same initiation site and pattern was launched by inhibition of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase pumps of cells continuously stimulated with sub-maximal agonist concentration. By contrast, rapid sequential application of sub-maximal and maximal agonist concentrations to the same cell triggered Ca2+ waves with different initiation sites. These findings indicate that signaling specificity in pancreatic acinar cells is aided by polarized expression and autonomous functioning of GPCRs and that quantal Ca2+ release is not due to a partial Ca2+ release from a continuous pool, but rather, it is due to an all-or-none Ca2+ release from a compartmentalized Ca2+ pool.
Collagenase production by cultures containing multinucleated cells derived from synovial fibroblasts

Multinucleate cells are found frequently in rheumatoid synovium. In this study, polyethylene glycol was used to fuse rabbit synovial fibroblasts. Approximately 40% of the cells developed more than one nucleus in a 24 hour period, during which time cell membranes had increased permeability. In cultures containing multinucleate cells, 3H-thymidine incorporation was depressed for 24 hours although 3H-leucine incorporation into TCA precipitable material was unaffected; autoradiography showed that depression of 3H-thymidine continued for at least 4 days. Collagenase production by cultures containing fused cells was increased more than 10-fold over control cultures during a 28 day period.
Nitrogen and Sulfur Concentrations and Flow Rates of Corn Wet-Milling Streams

ABSTRACTNitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) concentrations can affect the market value of coproducts from corn wet-milling. The composition of parent streams would be expected to affect composition of the resulting coproducts but there are few published data available to examine this relationship. Concentration and flow data are needed to determine which streams are important in modifying N and S coproduct concentrations. The objective was to measure concentrations and flows of N and S in corn wet-milling streams. Samples were taken from 21 process streams from 3 wet-milling plants during two periods of three weeks each; N and S concentrations of each sample were determined. There were large differences in N and S concentrations among processing streams; within most streams, N and S concentrations were similar among plants. Concentrations of N and S were related inversely to flow rates. Steepwater and gluten streams contained most of the N and S flow and provide an opportunity for modification. The process water ...
COLOR-APPEARANCE REPRODUCTION: VISUAL DATA AND PREDICTIVE MODELING

The authors thank all the observers who took part in the experiments and Paula Alessi of Eastman Kodak for assisting with the design and implementation of this project. Funded by: Eastman Kodak, NYS/IUCRC, NYSSTF-CAT Center for Electronic Imaging Systems, Munsell Color Science Laboratory
The Rise and Decay of the Socialist Economy in Bulgaria

The political reconstruction of Bulgaria has gone on more slowly than in Central Europe, but the role of the former communists is weaker than in neighboring Romania or Serbia and, of course, much more so than in the Soviet Union (except for the Baltic Republics). This paper discusses the economy before communist rule; economic institutions and policy options under the communists; economic decay and the dangers of procrastination; and the new government's program and its prospects.
The benzene ground state potential surface. IV. Discrimination between multiple E1u force field solutions through infrared intensities

Accurate values for integrated intensities of the infrared active 13C6H6 fundamentals, ν18, ν19, ν20, and ν11 (Wilson notation) have been measured and redetermined for ν18 and ν19 in C6H6 and C6D6. The 13C6H6 intensities are I18=6.52±0.15, I19=12.60±0.20, I20=55.6±1, and I11=74.6±3 km/mol. Unlike C6H6 and C6D6, interfering transitions in 13C6H6 are minor and these intensities can be used as a critical test for theoretical predictions of atomic polar tensors. The ν18 intensities in C6H6 and C6D6 (7.48±0.15 and 7.09±0.14 km/mol, respectively) and the ν19 intensity in C6D6 (2.51±0.12 km/mol) are measured to be substantially lower than the literature values. The qualitative intensity pattern of benzene in‐plane fundamentals uniquely discriminate among the eight possible real E1u force field solutions obtained from frequency information alone. Isotopically invariant dipole moment derivatives, ∂μ/∂S18a, ∂μ/∂S19a, and ∂μ/∂S20a are 0.494±0.005, 0.395±0.016, and 0.770±0.008 D/A, respectively, obtained from the 13C...
Editorial comment--Decline in stroke mortality: splitters and lumpers.

Over the last 3 decades, it has been rewarding to observe the steep decline in stroke mortality in many countries. In part, epidemiologists have attributed this decline to improvements in treatment of hypertension.2 Unfortunately, during the last several years some of these countries have experienced a slowdown of the declining trend. A plethora of studies have been published since attempting to explain this phenomenon. It seems unlikely that flattening of the stroke mortality curve is an indication of a floor effect of primary and secondary prevention efforts.3 Rather, it seems more likely to be masking a relapse in hypertension prevention. Although screening for high blood pressure has increased in the 1980s, still only half of hypertensive patients received treatment from their physicians in the 1990s,4 and only 69% are even aware that they have elevated blood pressure.5 It is also possible that the increase in incidence of other stroke risk factors, such as diabetes,6 obesity,7 …
Assay and partial purification of epoxide hydrase from rat liver microsomes

Abstract Solubilized cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase and epoxide hydrase activities from rat liver microsomes have been separated by column chromatography. The highly active epoxide hydrase fraction is still contaminated with cytochrome P-450, which has very low monooxygenase activity. The highly purified cytochrome P-450 fraction possesses high monooxygenase activity and is essentially devoid of epoxide hydrase activity. Purification factors for the epoxide hydrase through four purification steps are similar with [3H]styrene oxide, [3H]naphthalene oxide, [3H]cyclohexene oxide, and benzene oxide as substrates. Failure of benzene oxide to inhibit hydration of styrene or naphthalene oxide in the most purified preparations in indicative of the presence of at least two hydrases. These purified cytochrome monooxygenase and hydrase preparations represent valuable tools for the study of the intermediacy of arene oxides in drug metabolism. Thus, with naphthalene, only naphthol is formed with the monooxygenase, while both naphthol and the dihydrodiol are formed in the presence of monooxygenase and hydrase. A convenient radiochemical synthesis of [3H]naphthalene 1,2-oxide and assays for the measurement of the hydration of [3H]naphthalene oxide and benzene oxide, based on differential extractions and high-pressure liquid chromatography, respectively, are described.
Role of carbonate in the cytotoxicity of carboplatin

Carboplatin, [Pt(NH3)2(CBDCA-O,O‘)], 1, where CBDCA is cyclobutane-1,1-dicarboxylate, is used against ovarian, lung, and other types of cancer. We recently showed (Di Pasqua et al. (2006) Chem. Res. Toxicol. 19, 139−149) that carboplatin reacts with carbonate under conditions that simulate therapy to produce carbonato carboplatin, cis-[Pt(NH3)2(O-CBDCA)(CO3)]2-, 2. We use 13C and 1H NMR and UV−visible absorption spectroscopy to show that solutions containing carboplatin that have been aged in carbonate buffer under various conditions contain 1, 2, and other compounds. We then show that aging carboplatin in carbonate produces compounds that are more toxic to human neuroblastoma (SK-N-SH), proximal renal tubule (HK-2) and Namalwa-luc Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) cells than carboplatin alone. Moreover, increasing the aging time increases the cytotoxicity of the platinum solutions as measured by the increase in cell death. Although HK-2 cells experience a large loss in survival upon exposure to carbonato forms of ...
Methyl halide and methane fluxes in the northern Alaskan coastal tundra

[1] The Arctic tundra is a major source and sink of carbon-containing gases, but the biogeochemical cycling of halocarbons in this ecosystem has been largely unexplored. In this study, coastal tundra fluxes of methyl halides (CH3Cl, CH3Br, and CH3I) and methane (CH4) were measured near Barrow, Alaska (71°N, 157°W) during the 2005 growing season. Sites covered a range of microtopographic features including drained lake basins, channels, and high- and low-centered ice-wedge polygons. CH3Cl and CH3Br fluxes varied significantly with hydrologic conditions, with progressively higher net uptake rates observed with decreasing soil saturation. Drained tundra sites averaged −620 nmol CH3Cl m−2 d−1 and −9.8 nmol CH3Br m−2 d−1 while flooded tundra sites averaged −14 nmol CH3Cl m−2 d−1 and +1.1 nmol CH3Br m−2 d−1. CH3Cl and CH3Br fluxes were positively correlated with each other as well as with CH4 emissions, suggesting that consumption of both compounds occurs primarily in aerobic environments. Average CH3I net emissions were relatively weak (4.0 nmol m−2 d−1). Average methane fluxes (2.0 mmol m−2 d−1) and their relationship with soil moisture were comparable to tundra emissions reported by prior studies. Methane fluxes showed a marked seasonality, with emissions tripling between early and late in the growing season, but methyl halide fluxes did not show a similar temporal trend. If these measurements are representative of the Arctic tundra, then the Arctic tundra is a regionally important sink for CH3Cl and CH3Br but a trivial source of CH3I.
The Design of Off-Grid Multi-Energy Complementary Power System

One kind of multi-energy off-grid hybrid power system is designed. The system combines highly efficient solar photovoltaic power generation system, ultra low wind speed electric power facility, pedal-powered electricity generating device with the function of automatic reciprocating type. The signals are selected and controlled by STC12c2052 single chip, then the electric energy is delivered to the storage battery through the DC/DC module. Thus, a system with high efficiency and multi-energies complementary is obtained. It can be conclude that this system, cost-effective and environmentally friendly, has great potential in saving energy and environmental protection.
Focusing Inside Random Media

We find that the variation inside a random sample with depth of the contrast in focusing equals the eigenchannel participation number for the field matrix inside a random sample.
On the role of aging in carcinogenesis

Correlation coefficients for age-standardized incidence rates between cancers of the stomach, colon, rectum and lung over place (worldwide) and time (in Connecticut) vary from positive to negative values, indicating that these cancers are not caused by common environmental agents. Correlation coefficients for age-incidence patterns (the variation in age-specific rates with age) between these cancers, on the other hand, are all highly positive for both sexes. We conclude that the carcinogenic determinants that vary with age are common to the cancers studied and to both sexes, and distinct from the carcinogenic determinants that vary with place and time. For the cancers studied, incidence rates are negligible until age 30, at which time they increase dramatically and continue to increase at least until age 75. The rate of increase, however, diminishes continuously with advancing age after 30. We suggest that the role of aging in cancer incidence is determined by two components, one responsible for the dramatic rate increase beginning near age 30 and one responsible for the gradual diminution in that rate increase. The former may correspond to the activation of quiescent cells with damaged DNA or to the deactivation of DNA surveillance or repair or to impaired apoptosis, while the latter may correspond to the loss of cell division potential.
Age and duration of volcanic activity at Diamond Craters, southeastern Oregon

Abstract Diamond Craters, one of several young basalt lava fields dotted across southeastern Oregon, was active in the time between about 7320 and 7790 years ago (calibrated ages). This timing is determined by a two-step analysis. First, new radiocarbon ages from samples that underlie the lava field and existing ages from overlying deposits constrain the volcanic activity to between 6130 and 7790 years ago. Second, paleomagnetic directions, specifically a steep inclination of about 71°, further constrain the age of emplacement to the older part of that interval, the time before 7320 years ago. Paleomagnetic directions for lava emplaced early and late in the eruptive activity are essentially the same. The duration of Diamond Craters eruptive activity must have been at least 1–2 decades in order to account for the extrusion of 1.6 km 3 of dense rock-equivalent magma at rates typical of long-lived basaltic eruptions. Whether the duration was only that brief or persisted to a century or more is irresolvable from paleomagnetic directions, although the coincidence of directions from beginning to end is evidence that the eruption certainly was not protracted over many centuries.
Simulation of a microprocessor-based CNC machining system

Abstract During the development of the VPI IEOR Miniature Flexible Manufacturing System, some basic system control strategies and design parameters had to be chosen. A SLAM based simulation model was built to examine control of a single machine in the system. This paper presents the single machine control configurations along with the simulation model and the results obtained from the simulation study. The paper shows that important design information can be gained through the simulation model without conducting physical tests. It can save both time and cost of developing the system. It was also used to improve the efficiency of the system.
Development of a Web-Based Query Tool for Quality Assurance of Clinical Molecular Genetic Test Results

The College of American Pathologists molecular pathology checklist item (MOL.20550) calls for periodic review of molecular genetic statistics, including percentages of normal and abnormal findings and allele frequencies. A web-based query tool application for clinical molecular genetic test results was developed to plot dynamically and display genotype and/or allele frequencies for any time period. This tool is used to produce plots of all high-volume molecular genetic assays (>50 samples per month). A single web page contains pull-down menus, enabling the user to select the type of chart to be generated (genotype or allele frequency), the molecular genetic assays to chart (from one to all), the ending date for data in the chart (month and year), and the duration of the time period to plot (1 to 12 months). The rendered graphical and textual frequency data can then be viewed or printed. This tool can be used by any laboratory and interfaced with a standard laboratory information system. Monthly quality control charts and tables are now generated in minutes compared with the hours it took using manual charting applications. This simplified process enables timely compliance with a College of American Pathologists checklist item.
Thermal waters along the Konocti Bay fault zone, Lake County, California: a re-evaluation

Abstract The Konocti Bay fault zone (KBFZ), initially regarded by some as a promising target for liquid-dominated geothermal systems, has been a disappointment. At least five exploratory wells were drilled in the vicinity of the KBFZ, but none were successful. Although the Na-K-Ca and Na-Li geothermometers indicate that the thermal waters discharging in the vicinity of Howard and Seigler Springs may have equilibrated at temperatures greater than 200°C, the spring temperatures and fluid discharges are low. Most thermal waters along the KBFZ contain >100 mg/l Mg. High concentrations of dissolved magnesium are usually indicative of relatively cool hydrothermal systems. Dissolution of serpentine at shallow depths may contribute dissolved silica and magnesium to rising thermal waters. Most thermal waters are saturated with respect to amorphous silica at the measured spring temperature. Silica geothermometers and mixing models are useless because the dissolved silica concentration is not controlled by the solubility of either quartz or chalcedony. Cation geothermometry indicates the possibility of a high-temperature fluid (> 200°C) only in the vicinity of Howard and Seigler Springs. However, even if the fluid temperature is as high as that indicated by the geothermometers, the permeability may be low. Deuterium and oxygen-18 values of the thermal waters indicate that they recharged locally and became enriched in oxygen-18 by exchange with rock. Diluting meteoric water and the thermal water appear to have the same deuterium value. Lack of tritium in the diluted spring waters suggest that the diluting water is old.
Review of the state of renal nerve ablation for patients with severe and resistant hypertension

Through modulation of renin secretion, glomerular filtration rate, and renal absorption of sodium, the sympathetic innervation of the kidneys plays an important role in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Renal nerve ablation technology is being developed for treatment of drug-treatment-resistant hypertension worldwide. Preliminary research with the use of radiofrequency-based renal denervation systems have demonstrated encouraging results with significant reduction of blood pressure in patients inadequately controlled despite nearly maximal drug therapy regimens. From work done thus far, the renal denervation procedure has not been associated with serious adverse effects. Long-term efficacy and safety still needs to be established for renal nerve ablation. This review focuses on the impact of the renal sympathetic system on blood pressure regulation, the clinical rationale for renal nerve ablation in severe and drug-treatment-resistant hypertension, and current evidence from the more advanced renal denervation devices.
Three‐dimensional currents of electrodynamic tethers obtained from laboratory models

Magnetic probe measurements in three dimensions (greater than 15,000 positions) and time in a large laboratory plasma (n(sub e) greater than or equal to 10(exp 11)/cc, kTe greater than or equal to 1eV, B(sub 0) = 20 G, 1 m diam. x 2.5 m length) reveal the plasma currents J = del(vector differential operator) x B/mu(sub 0) excited by a pulsed (delta-t = 100 ns), stationary, tethered pair of electrodes (approximately equals 1 cm diam., 20 cm spacing perpendicular to B(sub 0)). The plasma currents for a moving, dc-current carrying electrodynamic tether are obtained by a superposition of delayed pulses emitted at successively displaced tether positions. The transient plasma currents are carried by low-frequency whistlers instead of Alfven waves and form a 3D wing structure but no long phantom loop due to cross-field Hall current shunting.