cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development of a Strain Transferring Sensor Housing for a Lumbar Spinal Fusion Detection System

Lumbar arthrodesis or spinal fusion is usually performed to relieve back pain, and regain functionality from degenerative disc disease, trauma, etc. Fusion is determined from radiographic images (X-ray) or computed tomography scans, yet these inspection procedures are subjective methods of review. As a result, exploratory surgery is performed if the presence of fusion cannot be confirmed. Therefore, a need exists to provide objective data to determine the presence of fusion that could avoid the cost, pain, and risk of exploratory surgery. One method to achieve this objective is to observe bending strain from spinal rods implanted during surgery. A system has been developed that will attach to the spinal instrumentation rods, transmit strain information wirelessly, and without the use of batteries. Major components of the system include a strain transferring sensor housing, a microelectromechanical (MEMS)-based strain sensor, telemetry circuitry, and antennae. Only discussed herein are the design, testing, and results of the housing without a cover and its ability to transfer strain from the rod to an internal surface where a foil strain gage is attached to characterize strain transfer efficiency. Strain gauges rather than the MEMS sensor were employed for housing characterization due cost and limited availability. Design constraints for the housing are long-term implantation, small size, greater than 95% transfer of bending strain from the spinal rods to the internal strain sensor, and ease of installation. ABAQUS finite element modeling software was employed to develop a working model that was fabricated using polyetheretherkeytone. The housing underwent cycle testing in a material testing system to simulate long-term implantation along with static testing to determine if creep was present. Both series of tests showed that the housing's response did not degrade over a period of time and there was no indication of creep. The experimental results also validated the results of the ABAQUS finite element model.
A chart of consecutive sets of electronic orbits within atoms of chemical elements

According to the generally accepted theory of atomic structure, much of the behavior of the atom of a chemical element can be accounted for by assuming it to consist of a positively charged central nucleus (which contains practically the whole mass of the atom) and of a number of negatively charged electrons revolving around the nucleus in approximately elliptic orbits, in a manner somewhat similar to tha t of the planets rotating about the sun. Since these orbits have never been actually observed, their physical existence can be neither insisted on nor denied. More scientifically stated, an atom behaves as i f it possessed such revolving electrons. When electronic orbits are discussed below, this limitation of "as if" is always understood. In some respects such orbits simply denote ene rgy levels. When it comes to the simplest diatomic molecules, such as N2 or NaC1, the outer or valence electrons must be assumed to describe much more complex orbits than plain ellipses, to account for the chemical bonds and observed spectra in terms of the quantum mechanics. As a result of many years of painstaking research on the part of a number of prominent physicists, considerable information has been collected as to the probable number of electronic orbits and their characteristics, for practically all the known chemical elements. The principal source of such information is a study of spectral lines and groups of lines of such elements, interpreted in terms of the so-called quantum theory of elementary action. The purpose of this article is to represent some of the results of these studies in the form of a graphical chart, and to describe an empirical rule of electronic orbits according to which elements seem to form periodic groups with recurrent
Portal Hypoplasia: A Cause of An Unusual Portal-Systemic Venous Collateral Pathway

The diagnosis of portal vein hypoplasia can be made based upon the angiographic findings of a large portal-systemic shunt, nonopacification of intra- and extrahepatic portal veins, and a liver biopsy without cirrho sis.
Optimal Configuration of Alarm Sensors for Monitoring Mobile Ergodic Markov Phenomena on Arbitrary Graphs

Motivated by persistent monitoring tasks, this paper considers the placement of alarm sensors incapable of long-distance communication on arbitrary graphs and the selection of the rates of their revisits (by an external agent) to monitor a mobile phenomenon whose movements occur on a graph and are modeled as an ergodic Markov chain. The alarm sensors can be placed on nodes and edges in the graph and act as both sensors and classifiers (i.e., they make a classification decision about the presence of the phenomenon based on a measurement of their surroundings). An approach to design the classifier for each alarm sensor is provided and methods to fuse the measurements of colocated alarm sensors are given. Sensor placement problems to optimize Fisher information, probability of misclassification, or the penalty incurred by poor detections, missed detections, and false alarms are formulated. Approaches to solve the formulated problems for the different optimization criteria are provided. Characteristics of these approaches are described and their merits are discussed. The sensors’ revisit rates are selected by matching the recurrence times of the phenomenon at the sensor locations. The different approaches are illustrated through simulations.
Development of an Organic Gardening Workshop and Community Engagement Activities to Develop a Healthy, Local Food System

When sustainable practices are used, gardening has the potential to positively impact the environment and enhance the local food system, which is consistent with ecological sustainability. The manuscript describes The ECOhio Garden Project which had the primary nutrition message of: Everyone Can, in OHIO, Garden [plants] And Rake Dirt [to] Enhance Nutrition ECOHIO GARDEN. The purposes of the program were to (1) improve access to fresh produce through the introduction of gardening by individuals and families living in Athens County, Ohio; (2) enhance the local food system in Athens County, Ohio, through the introduction of organic gardening and fruit permaculture at community hubs in the area; and (3) develop a fruit map of fruit trees and shrubs on public land in the community of Athens, Ohio. This program can be replicated in other communities to enhance the local food system.
Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) constitutes a spectrum of benign and malignant diseases that are associated with conception. The majority of patients with a benign GTN (hydatidiform mole) spontaneously enter remission after evacuation; however, 15% to 20% will develop a malignant form of GTN. The malignant GTN are classified as nonmetastatic GTN and metastatic GTN. Chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for malignant GTN. Patients require continuous emotional support during intense medical therapy because of issues related to the treatment and future pregnancies.
Controlling thread formation during tipstreaming through an active feedback control loop

Microscale tipstreaming is a hydrodynamic phenomenon capable of producing submicron sized droplets within a microfluidic device. The tipstreaming process results in the drawing of a thin thread from a highly curved interface and occurs as a result of interfacial surfactant concentration gradients that develop due to elongational flows generated within flow focusing geometries. However, in conventional microfluidic devices, the thread formation is periodically interrupted by the formation of larger primary droplets. This study presents an active feedback control loop capable of eliminating the production of primary droplets and producing a continuous thread, and therefore a continuous droplet stream. A proportional controller is used to successfully control the position of the interface and generate a continuous thread. A derivative component is incorporated in an attempt to increase controller stability, but this component is found to be ineffective. Analysis of the tip position as a function of time is performed to determine the optimal proportional gain constant and set point value for the proportional controller that minimize fluctuations in the produced droplet sizes. The generation of a continuous thread facilitates the use of tipstreaming in several applications, including nanoparticle synthesis, chemical detection, and enzyme activity studies.
Theoretical investigation of the reaction mechanism of the hydrodeoxygenation of guaiacol over a Ru(0 0 0 1) model surface

Abstract The reaction mechanism of the hydrodeoxygenation of guaiacol to aromatic products has been studied by density functional theory calculations and microkinetic modeling over a Ru(0 0 0 1) model surface. Our model suggests that the dominant hydrodeoxygenation pathway proceeds via O–H bond cleavage of guaiacol, C6H4(OH)(OCH3), to C6H4(O)(OCH3), followed by dehydrogenation of the methoxy group to C6H4(O)(OC), decarbonylation to C6H4O, and finally hydrogenation to phenol. At the adsorbed C6H4(O)(OCH) intermediate, a competitive deoxygenation pathway is identified, which involves methyne group removal to C6H4O2, followed by hydrogenation to C6H4(OH)(O), dehydroxylation to C6H4O, and finally hydrogenation to phenol. In agreement with experimental results, phenol is predicted to be the major product and catechol is the most relevant minority side product. Further deoxygenation of phenol to benzene is found to be slow. Finally, computations predict the last dehydrogenation step of the methoxy species in guaiacol to be at least partially rate controlling over Ru(0 0 0 1).
The role of interface structure in oxidation reactions

Abstract The dynamics of the scale–metal interface exhibits an asymmetry in behavior in oxidation and other scaling reactions depending on whether the mechanism is one of cation or anion-diffusion. For the cation case, the growth step is at the free surface and line defects at the metal–scale interface serve to annihilate vacancies in the scaling mechanism. For the anion case, the growth step is at the scale–metal interface. Disconnections and dislocations provide the growth sites for the reaction and both their topological and elastic properties influence the mechanism. Scaling reactions to form nickel oxide and molybdenum disulfide are considered as examples. Conditions favoring scale fracture are discussed. The results are related to the reactive element effect and to the significance of the Pilling–Bedworth ratio.
Optimal Pick-Up Locations for Irregular Concrete Panels

Aprocedure for minimization of principal stresses produced by initial lateral lifting of precast concrete structural panels is presented. An iterative approach using Powell's conjugate direction method searches for the nearly optimal pickup locations. A penalty function implemented with a nonsequential base takes into account side-constraint violations. A reasonably good initial guess for the design variables, which are coordinates of the pick-up locations, is essential. Accuracy of the results is dependent on the number of finite elements. The algorithm works well for a small number of design variables. A standard finite-element package is used for analysis on a microcomputer. Examples which demonstrate the procedure include a simply supported beam and several plates.
Life-Cycle Cost Award Algorithms for Design/Build Highway Pavement Projects

The nation’s existing highway infrastructure was procured on a low bid basis. The recent trend towards design-build delivery offers an opportunity to compete life cycle consideration in procurement. Minimizing pavement life cycle cost will enhance the sustainability of the nation’s highways by delivering pavements that last longer and reduce waste. This study provides best-value award algorithms that can be used to procure pavement on the basis of life cycle cost rather than low bid initial costs. The study uses the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) design algorithm as a basis of the best-value award.. Two detailed case study projects were used to furnish input data and information on which to base the comparison of bestvalue award algorithms. The analysis proves that many of the current best-value award algorithms currently used in design-build projects have a strong bias to minimize the capital cost of design and construction. The analysis also shows that the LCCA input can be used, but must be heavily weighted to influence the final award decision away form the lowest proposed price.
Association of Propulsive Swimming Mode with Behavior in River Otters (Lutra canadensis)

The propulsive swimming modes of river otters ( Lutra canadensis ) were examined relative to behavior. Six river otters were filmed in zoo enclosures that provided surface or submerged views. The repertoire of swimming modes observed for otters included quadrupedal paddling, forelimb paddling, alternate hind-limb paddling, simultaneous hind-limb paddling, and body and tail dorsoventral undulation. Paddling modes accounted for 88% of surface swimming observations and for 86% of observations involving submerged maneuvers. Dorsoventral undulation predominated during rectilinear submerged swimming. Transition from paddling to undulatory propulsion was accomplished by use of simultaneous hind-limb paddling in concert with dorsoventral body and tail flexion. These motions produced a posteriorly directed traveling wave in the tail with an average velocity 1.62 times the swimming velocity. The higher velocity in the tail could produce hydrodynamic thrust during all phases of the paddling cycle.
Stimulation of phospholipid hydrolysis and cell death by mercuric chloride: Evidence for mercuric ion acting as a calcium-mimetic agent

Mercuric chloride stimulates phospholipid hydrolysis and prostaglandin release in 3T3 mouse fibroblasts. This response is distinctly different from that stimulated by other sulfhydryl-reactive agents, but it exhibits a variety of characteristics similar to the phospholipid hydrolysis response stimulated by Ca2+ plus ionophore A23187. Also, the additivity of phospholipid hydrolytic responses stimulated by Hg2+, Ca2+ and A23187 is consistent with Hg2+ interacting with a Ca2+-dependent enzyme(s). These results are consistent with Hg2+ acting by a novel, Ca2+-mimetic mechanism; i.e., with it entering cells and activating cell processes that are activated by Ca2+ in calcium-dependent cell death.
Robust Through-the-Wall Radar Image Classification Using a Target-Model Alignment Procedure

A through-the-wall radar image (TWRI) bears little resemblance to the equivalent optical image, making it difficult to interpret. To maximize the intelligence that may be obtained, it is desirable to automate the classification of targets in the image to support human operators. This paper presents a technique for classifying stationary targets based on the high-range resolution profile (HRRP) extracted from 3-D TWRIs. The dependence of the image on the target location is discussed using a system point spread function (PSF) approach. It is shown that the position dependence will cause a classifier to fail, unless the image to be classified is aligned to a classifier-training location. A target image alignment technique based on deconvolution of the image with the system PSF is proposed. Comparison of the aligned target images with measured images shows the alignment process introducing normalized mean squared error (NMSE) ≤ 9%. The HRRP extracted from aligned target images are classified using a naive Bayesian classifier supported by principal component analysis. The classifier is tested using a real TWRI of canonical targets behind a concrete wall and shown to obtain correct classification rates ≥97%.
When oracles fail—A comparison of four procedures for aggregating subjective probability forecasts

Abstract When a panel of experts is assembled to make predictions about some aspect of the future, they invariably disagree. The possible strategies for dealing with such disagreement include (1) taking the statistical average of the individual forecasts, (2) face-to-face discussion until consensus is achieved, (3) the Delphi procedure, and (4) the Estimate-Talk-Estimate procedure proposed by D. H. Gustafson, R. K. Shukla, A. Delbecq, and G. W. Walster (Organizational Behavior and Performance, 1973) . This paper does two things. First, it very briefly reviews the literature relevant to opinion aggregation when forecasts are expressed as subjective probability distributions. Second, it describes an experimental comparison of the four procedures listed above using a subjective probability forecasting task. Together, the review and the experiment lead to two conclusions. First, subjective probability forecasts can be substantially improved by aggregating the opinions of a group of experts rather than relying on a single expert. Second, from a practical standpoint, there is no evidence to suggest that the method used to aggregate opinions will have a substantial impact on the quality of the resulting forecast.
Shaping programs through marketing

Marketing in the Public Sector: A Roadmap for Improved Performance, by Philip Kotler and Nancy Lee. Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Pearson Education, publishing as Wharton School Publishing, 2007. 336 pp., $35.00 cloth.
Phenomenology of two channel Kondo alloys and compounds

Abstract We report realistic calculations of magnetic response and transport coefficients for a model U 4+ ion in a metal which undergoes the quadrupolar Kondo effect. We find a small critical regime for the √ T term in the resistivity ρ ( T ). The magnitude and sign of the √ T term are argued to be nonuniversal for finite crystal field splitting. Related √ T terms are found in the van Vleck susceptibility which may be observed in UBe 13 . The thermopower S ( T ) and ρ ( T ) show characteristic crystal field related peaks. S ( T ) undergoes a low-temperature sign change when the dominant fluctuation weight is to the excited f n +1 configuration from a stable f n configuration; this may help explain data for UBe 13 and CeCu 2 Si 2 . Considering the two-channel lattice in a particular infinite dimension limit, we argue that ρ ( T = 0) ≠ 0 in the absence of symmetry breaking. This may explain the reproducibly large residual resistivity of UBe 13 .
Phytoextraction Potential of Indian Mustard at Various Levels of Zinc Exposure

ABSTRACT Indian mustard (Brassica juncea Czern.) has the potential to extract zinc (Zn) and other metals from contaminated soils, but the potential to accumulate metals at different levels of exposure is not well documented. The objectives of this research were to assess plant growth and Zn accumulation for different metal-accumulating accessions of Indian mustard grown with various Zn concentrations. In the experiment, three accessions of Indian mustard (426308, 182921, and 211000) were supplied with 12 levels of Zn (ranging from 0.0 to 7.0 mg L−1) for three weeks in solution culture. Accession 426308 had a greater capacity for dry-mass accumulation than the others, but differences among accessions lessened as the concentration of Zn in solution increased. Accessions did not differ in Zn concentrations in shoots, but accession 426308 had a greater potential to accumulate Zn than the other accessions. Elevating the Zn supply in solutions had a limited effect on increasing the total Zn accumulation of shoo...
Capping Protein Levels Influence Actin Assembly and Cell Motility in Dictyostelium

Summary Actin assembly is important for cell motility, but the mechanism of assembly and how it relates to motility in vivo is largely unknown. In vitro, actin assembly can be controlled by proteins, such as capping protein, that bind filament ends. To investigate the function of actin assembly in vivo, we altered the levels of capping protein in Dictyostelium cells and found changes in resting and chemoattractant-induced actin assembly that were consistent with the in vitro properties of capping protein in capping but not nucleation. Significantly, overexpressers moved faster and underexpressers moved slower than control cells. Mutants also exhibited changes in cytoskeleton architecture. These results provide insights into in vivo actin assembly and the role of the actin cytoskeleton in motility.
Nicotine ameliorates NMDA receptor antagonist-induced deficits in contextual fear conditioning through high-affinity nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the hippocampus

NMDA glutamate receptors (NMDARs) and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are both involved in learning and synaptic plasticity. Increasing evidence suggests processes mediated by these receptors may interact to modulate learning; however, little is known about the neural substrates involved in these interactive processes. The present studies investigated the effects of nicotine on MK-801 hydrogen maleate (MK-801) and DL-2-Amino-5-phosphonovaleric acid (APV)-induced disruption of contextual fear conditioning in male C57BL/6J mice, using direct drug infusion and selective nAChR antagonists to define the brain regions and the nAChR subtypes involved. Mice treated with MK-801 showed a deficit in contextual fear conditioning that was ameliorated by nicotine. Direct drug infusion demonstrated that the NMDAR antagonists disrupted hippocampal function and that nicotine acted in the dorsal hippocampus to ameliorate the deficit in learning. The high-affinity nAChR antagonist Dihydro-β-erythroidine hydrobromide (DhβE) blocked the effects of nicotine on MK-801-induced deficits while the α7 nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine citrate salt hydrate (MLA) did not. These results suggest that NMDARs and nAChRs may mediate similar hippocampal processes involved in contextual fear conditioning. Furthermore, these results may have implications for developing effective therapeutics for the cognitive deficits associated with schizophrenia because a large subset of patients with schizophrenia exhibit cognitive deficits that may be related to NMDAR dysfunction and smoke at much higher rates than the healthy population, which may be an attempt to ameliorate cognitive deficits.
Modeling factions for effects based operations: part I--leaders and followers

This paper presents a synthetic approach for generating role playing simulation games intended to support analysts (and trainees) interested in testing alternative competing courses of action (operations) and discovering what effects they are likely to precipitate in potential ethno-political conflict situations. Simulated leaders and followers capable of playing these games are implemented in a cognitive modeling framework, called PMFserv, which covers value systems, personality and cultural factors, emotions, relationships, perception, stress/coping style and decision making. Of direct interest, as Sect. 1.1 explains, is mathematical representation and synthesis of best-of-breed behavioral science models within this framework to reduce dimensionality and to improve the realism and internal validity of the agent implementations. Sections 2 and 3 present this for leader profiling instruments and group membership decision-making, respectively. Section 4 serves as an existence proof that the framework has generated several training and analysis tools, and Sect. 5 concludes with lessons learned. Part II turns to the question of assessment of the synthesis and its usage in course of action studies.
Glucagon-like immunoreactivity in mouse and rat retina.

Mouse and rat retinae were examined by the peroxidase-anti-peroxidase technique of immunocytochemistry using an antiserum against glucagon. The immunoreactivity was found in the cells of the ganglion cell layer and inner nuclear layer, including Muller cells. These observations may indicate that glucagon or a similar peptide is important in neuromodulation and/or metabolism of retinal cells.
Effect of a 3-day high-fat feeding period on carbohydrate balance and ad libitum energy intake in humans

Effect of a 3-day high-fat feeding period on carbohydrate balance and ad libitum energy intake in humans
Major Late Cretaceous cooling events in the eastern Peninsular Ranges, California, and their implications for Cordilleran tectonics

Fission-track ages from the Peninsular Ranges batholith in the San Jacinto Mountains near Palm Springs, California, indicate two major late Cretaceous cooling events. Concordant sphene and zircon fission-track ages of plutonic rocks (tonalite and low-K granodiorite) range from ca. 85 Ma to 98 Ma, with a mean of 92 Ma. The concordance of these ages over 2.5 km of exposed vertical section, coupled with previous U-Pb zircon dating (94-93 Ma), implies major cooling from crystallization temperatures to below ∼235 °C between 94 Ma and ca. 92 Ma. Cooling is attributed to initial intrusion of the tonalite and granodiorite into an evolving brittle-ductile normal fault zone (detachment) followed by ∼10-14.5 km of exhumation during continued crustal extension along the Santa Rosa mylonite belt. Field relationships, microstructural fabrics, and amphibole thermobarometry from the mylonite belt support the notion that extensional faulting was preceded by west-directed thrusting. This sequence of tectonic thickening followed by extension is similar to other areas in the southwestern Cordillera and may represent the creation and failure of an unstable regional crustal welt in Late Cretaceous time. A second event is evident from concordant fission-track ages and indistinguishable tracklength distributions from apatite at all elevations. These data indicate very rapid cooling of the tonalitic plutons through the apatite partial annealing zone (∼130-70 °C) between ca. 74 Ma and 80 Ma (mean age of 76 Ma). The occurrence of Late Cretaceous-age regional unconformities throughout Baja and southern California suggests that this cooling event was the result of surface uplift and erosion. By using a reasonable range of geothermal gradients (20-40 °C/km), the cooling data imply a minimum of 4-5 km of exhumation in conjunction with the ca. 76 Ma event. Surface uplift coincided with several important changes in the North American and Farallon (or Kula) plate motions. These include an increase in convergence rate, an increase in the absolute velocity of the North American plate, and a change in the direction of convergence between the plates. The changes in plate motions are thought to have initiated low-angle or flat-slab subduction that, in turn, was responsible for the Laramide deformation of the Cordilleran foreland. Surface uplift, erosion, and associated cooling during exhumation of the eastern Peninsular Ranges are considered to be an initial expression of Laramide tectonism. Phenomena documented here are consistent with uplift brought on by tectonic erosion of the North American lithospheric mantle due to low-angle subduction and by subsequent underplating of lower crustal rocks.
PANDER transgenic mice display fasting hyperglycemia and hepatic insulin resistance

PANcreatic-DERived factor (PANDER, FAM3B) is a novel protein that is highly expressed within the endocrine pancreas and to a lesser degree in other tissues. Under glucose stimulation, PANDER is co-secreted with insulin from the β-cell. Despite prior creation and characterization of acute hepatic PANDER animal models, the physiologic function remains to be elucidated from pancreas-secreted PANDER. To determine this, in this study, a transgenic mouse exclusively overexpressing PANDER from the endocrine pancreas was generated. PANDER was selectively expressed by the pancreatic-duodenal homeobox-1 (PDX1) promoter. The PANDER transgenic (PANTG) mice were metabolically and proteomically characterized to evaluate effects on glucose homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and lipid metabolism. Fasting glucose, insulin and C-peptide levels were elevated in the PANTG compared with matched WT mice. Younger PANTG mice also displayed glucose intolerance in the absence of peripheral insulin sensitivity. Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp studies revealed that hepatic glucose production and insulin resistance were significantly increased in the PANTG with no difference in either glucose infusion rate or rate of disappearance. Fasting glucagon, corticosterones, resistin and leptin levels were also similar between PANTG and WT. Stable isotope labeling of amino acids in cell culture revealed increased gluconeogenic and lipogenic proteomic profiles within the liver of the PANTG with phosphoenol-pyruvate carboxykinase demonstrating a 3.5-fold increase in expression. This was matched with increased hepatic triglyceride content and decreased p-AMPK and p-acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase-1 signaling in the PANTG. Overall, our findings support a role of pancreatic β-cell-secreted PANDER in the regulation of hepatic insulin and lipogenenic signaling with subsequent impact on overall glycemia.
Fast Rise of "Neptune-Size" Planets (4-8 R_Earth) from P~10 to ~250 days -- Statistics of Kepler Planet Candidates Up to ~0.75 AU

We infer period (P) and size (R_p) distribution of Kepler transiting planet candidates with R_p> 1 R_Earth and P 10 days, the planet frequency dN_p/d logP for "Neptune-size" planets (R_p = 4-8 R_Earth) increases with period as \propto P^{0.7\pm0.1}. In contrast, dN_p/dlogP for Super-Earth-Size (2-4 R_Earth) as well as Earth-size (1-2 R_Earth) planets are consistent with a nearly flat distribution as a function of period (\propto P^{0.11\pm0.05}) and \propto P^{-0.10\pm0.12}, respectively), and the normalizations are remarkably similar (within a factor of ~ 1.5). The shape of the distribution function is found to be not sensitive to changes in selection criteria of the sample. The implied nearly flat or rising planet frequency at long period appears to be in tension with the sharp decline at ~100 days in planet frequency for low mass planets (planet mass m_p < 30 M_Earth) recently suggested by the HARPS survey.
Granulosa Cell Differentiation in Vitro: Induction and Maintenance of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptors by Adenosine 3′5′-Monophosphate*

Granulosa cell differentiation is stimulated in vitro by FSH and other agents that increase cAMP production. To determine if alterations in FSH receptors are associated with cAMP-mediated granulosa cell maturation, FSH-binding sites were measured during culture of undifferentiated granulosa cells from hypophysectomized diethylstilbestrol-implanted rats. FSH receptors decreased rapidly in the absence of stimulatory ligands, with loss of 75% and 90% of the FSH-binding activity from freshly prepared cells after 24 and 48 h, respectively. The decline in FSH receptors during culture was accompanied by a corresponding decrease in cAMP responses to added FSH. In cells cultured with FSH, the available FSH receptor content fell to 15% after 8 h, then rose to 25% of the initial receptor levels from 24-48 h of culture. Cells treated with 8-bromo-cAMP or choleragen for 48 h retained about 40% and 90%, respectively, of their initial FSH-binding activity. Although choleragen did not prevent the 60-70% fall in FSH binding during the first 6 h of culture, it increased receptors 2.5-fold from 12-48 h. Also, the addition of choleragen after 3, 6, or 12 h of culture elevated FSH receptors at 48 h in proportion to the amount of cAMP produced. The FSH receptors induced by choleragent treatment were functionally active, as shown by their ability to mediate FSH-stimulated cAMP production. A GnRH agonist prevented the choleragen-induced rise in FSH receptors and cAMP accumulation from 24-48 h of culture. Scatchard analysis revealed a single population of FSH receptors after all treatments, with association constant of 5 X 10(9) M-1. Freshly prepared cells contained approximately 1600 FSH binding sites/cell, while treatment with choleragen or FSH for 48 h restored receptor levels to 1150 and 500 sites/cell, respectively. These results indicate that the expression of functional FSH receptors during granulosa cell maturation is mediated by cAMP.
A fair medium access control protocol for ad-hoc networks with MIMO links

We present a new medium access control (MAC) protocol for ad-hoc networks with multiple input multiple output (MIMO) links. Links that use multiple element arrays (MEAs) at both ends are referred to as MIMO links. MIMO links are known to provide extremely high spectral efficiencies in multipath channels by simultaneously transmitting multiple independent data streams in the same channel. MAC protocols have been proposed in related work for ad-hoc networks with other classes of smart antennas such as switched beam antennas. However, as we substantiate in the paper, the unique characteristics of MIMO links necessitate an entirely new MAC protocol. We identify several advantages of MIMO links, and discuss key optimization considerations that can help in realizing an effective MAC protocol for such an environment. We present a centralized algorithm that has the optimization considerations incorporated in its design. Finally, we present a distributed protocol that approximates the centralized algorithm, and compare its performance against that of baseline protocols that are variants of the CSMA/CA protocol.
Pulsed CsI-coated tufted carbon fiber cathode plasma

This paper discusses the out-gassing behavior of a repetitively pulsed electron beam diode with a CsI-coated tufted carbon fiber cathode and a carbon fiber anode. Through this paper, a cross section model was developed that utilizes experimental data including pressure, temperature and voltage (energy) for determination. Mass and optical spectroscopy identified neutral and ion species likely responsible for the pressure pulses. The identified neutral and ionization cross sections from the published literature and databases were compared with the experimentally determined cross sections. The types of cross sections were electron-neutral and was single impact leading to single, double and triple ionization as well as elastic scattering. This comparison leads to the conclusion that initial pressure bursts consist of plasma with constituents of Cs, Cs/sup ++/, Cs/sup +++/, I, I/sup ++/, N/sub 2/, N/sub 2//sup +/, H/sub 2/O/sup +/, H, H/sup +/, and H/sub 2//sup +/. Larger pressure bursts after the initial ones also include Cs/sup +/ and I/sup +/. Smaller bursts observed during steady state operations fluctuate between plasmas that contain H and H/sup +/, and those that contain H, H/sup +/, and H/sub 2//sup +/. Consistently, the initial pressure pulses exceeded those found under steady-state operations. The optical spectroscopy timing and results are self-consistent with what is obtained from the cross section model. The cross section model coupled with the experimental data determines the transient plasma makeup responsible for the observed pressure pulses.
Dietary glycemic load, glycemic index, and associated factors in a multiethnic cohort of midlife women

Background: Dietary glycemic load (GL) and glycemic index (GI), indicators of the postprandial glucose and insulin response to carbohydrate composition of diet, have been suggested as independent risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. However, current knowledge about the distribution, correlates, and major contributors of these measures in human populations is limited.Objective: To describe the intakes and correlates of GL and GI in African American, Caucasian, Chinese, and Japanese women in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN).Design: Data are from 2025 women participating in SWAN, a multi-ethnic, community-based cohort study of women transitioning into menopause. GL and GI were estimated from dietary information obtained in the fifth year of the study using a modified Block food frequency questionnaire. The relationship of GL and GI to dietary factors and selected demographic measures, including race/ethnicity and lifestyle factors, was examined using bivariate and multiva...
Combining cry1Ac with QTL alleles from PI 229358 to improve soybean resistance to lepidopteran pests

A QTL conditioning corn earworm resistance in soybean PI 229358 and asynthetic Bacillus thuringiensis cry1Ac transgene from therecurrent parent ‘Jack-Bt’ were pyramided intoBC2F3 plants by marker-assisted selection. Segregatingindividuals were genotyped at SSR markers linked to an anitbiosis/antixenosisQTL on linkage group M, and were tested for the presence ofcry1Ac. Marker-assisted selection was used during andafter the two backcrosses to develop a series of BC2F3plants with or without the crylAc transgene and the QTLconditioning for resistance BC2F3 plants that werehomozygous for parental alleles at markers on LG M, and whicheither had or lacked cry1Ac, were assigned to one of fourpossible genotype classes. These plants were used in no-choice, detached leaffeeding bioassays with corn earworm and soybean looper larvae (Lepidoptera:Noctuidae) to evaluate the relative antibiosis in the different genotypeclasses. Resistance was measured as larval weight gain and degree of foliageconsumption. Few larvae of either species survived on leaves expressing theCry1Ac protein. Though not as great as the effect of Cry1Ac, the PI229358-derived LG M QTL also had a detrimental effect on larval weights of bothpest species, and on defoliation by corn earworm, but did not reduce defoliation bysoybean looper. Weights of soybean looper larvae fed foliage from transgenicplants with the PI-derived QTL were lower than those of larvae fed transgenictissue with the corresponding Jack chromosomal segment. This work demonstratesthe usefulness of SSRs for marker-assisted selection in soybean, and shows thatcombining transgene-and QTL-mediated resistance to lepidopteran pests may be aviable strategy for insect control.
The role of negative reciprocity in spouse abuse: A relational control analysis

Abstract This study examined the relational control patterns of ten abusive couples to identify patterns of negative reciprocity. Compared to non‐abusive couples, spouses in abusive relationships tended to escalate their verbal exchanges by consistently responding with one‐up moves to each others’ comments, regardless of the direction of control. This domineering pattern in which both spouses assert, but neither accepts the other's effort at control, may be a result of skill deficiency in arguing constructively. Implications of these results are discussed in terms of dyadic level treatment and interpersonal skills training.
Protein Kinase Cδ Selectively Regulates Protein Kinase D-Dependent Activation of NF-κB in Oxidative Stress Signaling

Protein kinase D (PKD) participates in activation of the transcription factor NF-kappaB (nuclear factor kappaB) in cells exposed to oxidative stress, leading to increased cellular survival. We previously demonstrated that phosphorylation of PKD at Tyr463 in the PH (pleckstrin homology) domain is mediated by the Src-Abl pathway and that it is necessary for PKD activation and subsequent NF-kappaB induction. Here we show that activation of PKD in response to oxidative stress requires two sequential signaling events, i.e., phosphorylation of Tyr463 by Abl, which in turn promotes a second step, phosphorylation of the PKD activation loop (Ser738/Ser742). We show that this is mediated by PKCdelta (protein kinase Cdelta), a kinase that is activated by Src in response to oxidative stress. We also show that other PKCs, including PKCepsilon and PKCzeta, do not participate in PKD activation or NF-kappaB induction. We propose a model in which two coordinated signaling events are required for PKD activation. Tyrosine phosphorylation in the PH domain at Tyr463, mediated by the Src-Abl pathway, which in turn facilitates the phosphorylation of Ser738/Ser742 in the activation loop, mediated by the Src-PKCdelta pathway. Once active, the signal is relayed to the activation of NF-kappaB in oxidative stress responses.
Rewritable Memory by Controllable Nanopatterning of DNA

Fabricating a nanostructure capable of reversibly patterning molecules is a fundamental goal within nanotechnology, underlying diverse processes such as information storage, scaffold-assisted assembly, and molecular transport. Here, we describe a DNA scaffold supporting a one-dimensional array of independently and reversibly addressable sites at 7 nm spacing. As a proof-of-concept, we demonstrate robust functioning of the device as rewritable memory. The bit state of each address is controlled by specific DNA strands with external readout provided by fluorescence measurements.
Molecular evolution of glutamine synthetase II: Phylogenetic evidence of a non-endosymbiotic gene transfer event early in plant evolution

Glutamine synthetase (GS) is essential for ammonium assimilation and the biosynthesis of glutamine. The three GS gene families (GSI, GSII, and GSIII) are represented in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. In this study, we examined the evolutionary relationship of GSII from eubacterial and eukaryotic lineages and present robust phylogenetic evidence that GSII was transferred from γ-Proteobacteria (Eubacteria) to the Chloroplastida. GSII sequences were isolated from four species of green algae (Trebouxiophyceae), and additional green algal (Chlorophyceae and Prasinophytae) and streptophyte (Charales, Desmidiales, Bryophyta, Marchantiophyta, Lycopodiophyta and Tracheophyta) sequences were obtained from public databases. In Bayesian and maximum likelihood analyses, eubacterial (GSIIB) and eukaryotic (GSIIE) GSII sequences formed distinct clades. Both GSIIB and GSIIE were found in chlorophytes and early-diverging streptophytes. The GSIIB enzymes from these groups formed a well-supported sister clade with the γ-Proteobacteria, providing evidence that GSIIB in the Chloroplastida arose by horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Bayesian relaxed molecular clock analyses suggest that GSIIB and GSIIE coexisted for an extended period of time but it is unclear whether the proposed HGT happened prior to or after the divergence of the primary endosymbiotic lineages (the Archaeplastida). However, GSIIB genes have not been identified in glaucophytes or red algae, favoring the hypothesis that GSIIB was gained after the divergence of the primary endosymbiotic lineages. Duplicate copies of the GSIIB gene were present in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, Volvox carteri f. nagariensis, and Physcomitrella patens. Both GSIIB proteins in C. reinhardtii and V. carteri f. nagariensis had N-terminal transit sequences, indicating they are targeted to the chloroplast or mitochondrion. In contrast, GSIIB proteins of P. patens lacked transit sequences, suggesting a cytosolic function. GSIIB sequences were absent in vascular plants where the duplication of GSIIE replaced the function of GSIIB. Phylogenetic evidence suggests GSIIB in Chloroplastida evolved by HGT, possibly after the divergence of the primary endosymbiotic lineages. Thus while multiple GS isoenzymes are common among members of the Chloroplastida, the isoenzymes may have evolved via different evolutionary processes. The acquisition of essential enzymes by HGT may provide rapid changes in biochemical capacity and therefore be favored by natural selection.
Ultrasound Imaging of Pancreatic Transplantation

This article reviews the different types of pancreas allograft transplantation, including the various forms of duct management and venous drainage. Sonographic technique and common sonographic findings are described. The role of sonography in the effective diagnosis and treatment of allograft disorders is emphasized. Limitations of sonography in the workup of these patients are discussed, along with the incorporation of alternative and complementary imaging modalities.
Control of combustion-generated nitrogen oxide emissions: Technology driven by regulation

Nitrogen oxides in the atmosphere contribute to photochemical smog, to the formation of acid rain precursors, to the destruction of ozone in the stratosphere and to global warming. Over the past 150 years, global emissions of nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere have been increasing steadily. A significant amount of the nitrogen oxide emissions is attributed to combustion of biomass and fossil fuels. Increasingly stringent NOx emissions regulations are being implemented in a number of industrialized countries. These regulations have driven and continue to drive the development of NOx emissions control techniques. This paper reviews existing and some emerging technologies for reduction of NOx emissions from combustion sources and examines the prospects of these technologies for meeting stricter emissions regulations. Both combustion modification and post-combustion methods for NOx reduction are considered. The important role of research on the chemistry of nitrogen oxides in combustion gases in development and optimization of emissions control techniques is described.
Abstract 248: Adipose Stromal Cells Mitigate Excessive Aortic Inflammation and Aortic Aneurysm Expansion through Paracrine Factors in an Elastase-induced Murine Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Model

Objective: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) formation is characterized by activation of innate and adaptive immune responses that initiate aortic wall degradation. We hypothesize that human adipose stromal cells (ASC) favorably modulate these immune responses through paracrine mechanisms and attenuate AAA expansion in a murine elastase model. Methods: AAA was induced in C57BL/6 mice by topical treatment of the abdominal aorta with elastase. Human ASC or saline was injected i.v. within 4 hours of elastase treatment. The aortic diameter was measured by ultrasound and video micrometry. Monocytes/macrophages and lymphocyte sub-populations were quantified by flow cytometry. Regulatory T cells (Treg) and M2 macrophages were quantified by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. ASC were labeled with Hoechst and their distributions in the lung and aorta were imaged by fluorescent microscopy and confirmed by real-time PCR for human-specific Alu sequence. Results: ASC significantly suppressed AAA expansion at 14 days (percent change from baseline: 64.1±4.2% (saline) vs. 24.6±6.2% (ASC), n=10/group, p<0.01). At Day 1 there was a significant increase in Treg in ASC treated mice (n=5/group, p<0.01) with a concurrent decrease of CD4+CD28-, CD8+CD28- T cells, and neutrophils (n=5/group, p<0.05). At Day 7, activated monocytes (CD115+CXCR1-LY6C+) and total aortic tissue resident macrophages were decreased (n=10/group, p<0.05) with a significant polarization to the tissue reparative M2 phenotype (n=5/group, p<0.05). Hoechst labeled ASC were detected in the lung without engraftment in the aorta at 24 hrs and were cleared at 96 hrs. Transmembrane co-culture of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells with ASC induced Treg, polarized macrophages to the M2 phenotype, inhibited neutrophil transmigration, and suppressed lymphocyte proliferation, as further supporting the mechanism of paracrine immunomodulation in the in vivo model of AAA. Conclusion: Systemic injection of ASC significantly induced anti-inflammatory immune cell phenotypes and suppressed AAA formation. These effects are mediated by release of paracrine factors and suggest that further characterization of the ASC secretome may lead to more potent recombinant protein therapies for AAA.