cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for estrogenicity using primary hepatocyte cultures from the channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus).

An in vitro assay has been developed to screen for estrogenic activity of single chemicals or complex mixtures. This method combines primary hepatocyte cultures from the channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) with an enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) to detect and quantify the production of vitellogenin (VTG), a liver-derived, estrogen-induced lipoprotein. A variety of environmentally relevant chemicals and chemical mixtures were tested, including the polyaromatic hydrocarbon benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), the alkylphenolic surfactants 4-tert-octylphenol (OP) and p-nonylphenol (NP), the chlorinated insecticide o,p′-DDT, the plant derivative stigmastanol, and a number of waste waters from pulp and paper mills. In addition, the effects of estradiol (E2), the synthetic estrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES) and the antiestrogens trans-1-(4-β-dimethylamino-ethoxyphenyl)-1,2-diphenylbut-1-ene (tamoxifen) and 7α-[9-(4,4,5,5,5-pentafluoro-pentylsulfinyl)nonyl]estra-3,17β-diol (ICI-182,780) were also examined. The following compounds were observed to be estrogenic: DES > E2 ≫ OP > o,p′-DDT > NP. Tests with BaP, stigmastanol, tamoxifen, ICI-182,780, and four paper mill effluents exhibited no detectable estrogenic activity. Furthermore, both tamoxifen and ICI-182,780 significantly reduced VTG synthesis by cells incubated with E2 or DES. Stigmastanol and the mill effluents were also tested for anti-estrogenic activity in cells incubated in media containing both DES and stigmastanol or effluent. Compared to DES alone, none of these treatments caused a significant reduction in the media concentrations of VTG. The detection limit for this assay was typically 15–25 ng VTG/ml medium. Screening results and performance characteristics such as inter- and intra-assay variability were similar to those reported for VTG assays for other teleost species. Thus, the present work provides a sensitive, rapid means for screening the estrogenic potency of environmentally relevant chemicals and chemical mixtures in vitro.
Toward understanding the mechanism of the complex cyclization reaction catalyzed by imidazole glycerolphosphate synthase: crystal structures of a ternary complex and the free enzyme.

Imidazole glycerol phosphate synthase catalyzes formation of the imidazole ring in histidine biosynthesis. The enzyme is also a glutamine amidotransferase, which produces ammonia in a glutaminase active site and channels it through a 30-A internal tunnel to a cyclase active site. Glutaminase activity is impaired in the resting enzyme, and stimulated by substrate binding in the cyclase active site. The signaling mechanism was investigated in the crystal structure of a ternary complex in which the glutaminase active site was inactivated by a glutamine analogue and the unstable cyclase substrate was cryo-trapped in the active site. The orientation of N1-(5‘-phosphoribulosyl)-formimino-5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide in the cyclase active site implicates one side of the cyclase domain in signaling to the glutaminase domain. This side of the cyclase domain contains the interdomain hinge. Two interdomain hydrogen bonds, which do not exist in more open forms of the enzyme, are proposed as molecular...
Hydrologic Impacts due to Changes in Conveyance and Conversion from Flood to Sprinkler Irrigation Practices

Improvements in irrigation efficiency are well documented when changing from flood to sprinkler irrigation methods; however, other impacts to the watershed associated with this change are not well known. The resulting impacts to a river basin hydrology when irrigation and conveyance methods are changed are the focus of this study. In an attempt to improve water application and conveyance efficiencies in the Salt River Basin of western Wyoming, irrigation practices were changed from flood irrigation to sprinkler irrigation beginning in the late 1960s, with completion by the mid-1970s. Based upon a water balance, flow in the Salt River increased an average of 65.62 MCM/year. Return flow timing was also impacted by the conversion to sprinkler irrigation. Flows increased 34% in May and 50% in June, while decreasing 15 and 14% in August and September. These changes may have coincided with decreases in groundwater storage. However, analysis of changes in groundwater levels with time was inconclusive. Surface wa...
Phylogenetic significance of the rpoA loss in the chloroplast genome of mosses

A recent survey of arthrodontous mosses revealed that their chloroplast genome lacks the gene encoding the alpha subunit of the RNA polymerase (i.e., rpoA), and that at least in Physcomitrella patens the gene has been transferred to the nuclear genome. Subsequently the gene was recorded from the cytoplasmic genome in Takakia and Sphagnum. Here we extend the survey to representatives of all major lineages of mosses to determine when in the evolutionary history of the Bryophyta the loss took place. Amplifications using primers annealing to the flanking regions of the rpoA gene yield a product that contains the gene in Takakia, Sphagnum, Andreaea, Oedipodium, Polytrichaceae, and Buxbaumia. The gene is lacking in all arthrodontous mosses, including Diphyscium but also in both species of Tetraphis. Reconstruction of the transfer on the phylogeny of mosses suggests (a) that the rpoA gene was lost twice and (b) that the gene was lost after the divergence of Buxbaumiidae and prior to the divergence of Diphyscium from the remaining Bryopsida.
LAKE HURON SURFACE WATER TEMPERATURE MAY ? NOVEMBER, 1966

. Data from seven vessel cruises from late May to early November permitted definition of the surface water temperature regime of Lake Huron on a monthly basis. Quantitative values are furnished for a portion of the warming, stable, and cooling periods. The lowest temperatures occurred near the center of the lake, southwest of Manitoulin Island, and at De Tour Passage. The highest temperatures occurred at the mouth of Saginaw Bay and in the southernmost portions of the lake. Comparison of the surface water temperatures with temperatures in the 21 - 30 m layer shows the heat storage lag characteristic of large lakes.
Spinning down newborn neutron stars: nonlinear development of the r-mode instability

We model the nonlinear saturation of the r-mode instability via three-mode couplings and the effects of the instability on the spin evolution of young neutron stars. We include one mode triplet consisting of the r-mode and two near-resonant inertial modes that couple to it. We find that the spectrum of evolutions is more diverse than previously thought. We start our evolutions with a star of temperature {approx}10{sup 10} K and a spin frequency close to the Kepler break-up frequency. We assume that hyperon bulk viscosity dominates at high temperatures (T{approx}10{sup 9}-10{sup 10} K) and boundary layer viscosity dominates at lower temperatures ({approx}a fewx10{sup 8} K). To explore possible nonlinear behavior, we vary properties of the star such as the hyperon superfluid transition temperature, the strength of the boundary layer viscosity, and the fraction of the star that cools via direct URCA reactions. The evolution of the star is dynamic and initially dominated by fast neutrino cooling. Nonlinear effects become important when the r-mode amplitude grows above its first parametric instability threshold. The balance between neutrino cooling and viscous heating plays an important role in the evolution. Depending on the initial r-mode amplitude, and on the strength of the viscosity and more » of the cooling this balance can occur at different temperatures. If thermal equilibrium occurs on the r-mode stability curve, where gravitational driving equals viscous damping, the evolution may be adequately described by a one-mode model. Otherwise, nonlinear effects are important and lead to various more complicated scenarios. Once thermal balance occurs, the star spins down oscillating between thermal equilibrium states until the instability is no longer active. The average evolution of the mode amplitudes can be approximated by quasistationary states that are determined algebraically. For lower viscosity we observe runaway behavior in which the r-mode amplitude passes several parametric instability thresholds. In this case more modes need to be included to model the evolution accurately. In the most optimistic case, we find that gravitational radiation from the r-mode instability in a very young, fast spinning neutron star within about 1 Mpc of Earth may be detectable by advanced LIGO for years, and perhaps decades, after formation. Details regarding the amplitude and duration of the emission depend on the internal dissipation of the modes of the star, which would be probed by such detections. « less
Biosynthesis of mustard oil glucosides: N-Hydroxyphenylalanine, a precursor of glucotropaeolin and a substrate for the enzymatic and nonenzymatic formation of phenylacetaldehyde oxime

Abstract The incorporation of DL - N -hydroxyphenylalanine-2- 14 C into the mustard oil glucoside glucotropaeolin was demonstrated by plant feeding experiments. The efficiency of conversion of 14 C from this acid into the aglycone moiety of glucotropaeolin was higher than that from DL -phenylalanine-2- 14 C or -3- 14 C, and was comparable with that observed previously from phenylacetaldehyde oxime-1- 14 C. These results support the reaction sequence: phenylalanine → N -hydroxyphcnylalanine → phenylacetaldehyde oxime → glucotropaeolin. Enzyme preparations were obtained from Sinapis alba L., Tropoeolum majus L. and Nasturtium officinale R.Br. which catalyze the transformation of N -hydroxyphenylalanine to phenylacetaldehyde oxime. Although no absolute requirement for cofactors could be found, an increase in the rate of formation of the aldehyde oxime and consumption of oxygen was observed using FMN and enzyme preparations from T . majus and S . alba . Using the enzyme from T . majus it was demonstrated that the μmoles of phenylacetaldehyde oxime formed and of oxygen consumed were equivalent. In this case FMN appeared to be the prosthetic group and oxygen the physiological hydrogen acceptor. In addition to this enzymatic conversion, an unspecific and nonenzymatic oxidation of the N -hydroxyamino acid to phenylacetaldehyde oxime and phenylacetonitrile was observed.
Cooperative regulation of growth by Yorkie and Mad through bantam.

The Dpp and Fat-Hippo signaling pathways both regulate growth in Drosophila. Dpp is a BMP family ligand and acts via a Smad family DNA-binding transcription factor, Mad. Fat-Hippo signaling acts via a non-DNA-binding transcriptional coactivator protein, Yorkie. Here, we show that these pathways are directly interlinked. They act synergistically to promote growth, in part via regulation of the microRNA gene bantam, and their ability to promote growth is mutually dependent. Yorkie and Mad physically bind each other, and we identify a 410 bp minimal enhancer of bantam that responds to Yorkie:Mad in vivo and in cultured cells, and show that both Yorkie and Mad associate with this enhancer in vivo. Our results indicate that in promoting the growth of Drosophila tissues, Fat-Hippo and Dpp signaling contribute distinct subunits of a shared transcriptional activation complex, Yorkie:Mad.
Glucose tolerance studies in children and in adolescents

At the outset, let us refresh our minds about some of the basic factors to be considered in blood sugar studies. The normal fasting blood sugar level fluctuates between 70 and 110 mg. per cent. This level, if followed for a period of hours, fluctuates but little in the adult, as can be seen from Chart 1. This is also true of a child, and in Chart 2, I have reproduced from the splendid publication by Svensgaard, a series of blood sugar determinations on infants, aged two to five months. These show but slight fluctuation in the blood sugar levels. The second curve in the series, in which the blood sugar level rose more than in the others is the only exception, but when the blood sugars were studied the second day on this same infant, a fairly even curve resulted.
The dependence of ostwald ripening kinetics on particle volume fraction

Abstract A spatially homogeneous rate theory model is developed to describe the time rate of change of the radius of a spherical particle embedded in a configurationally random array of particles of like nature but differing sizes. The growth rate so derived is incorporated within the Lifshitz-Slyozov and Wagner hydrodynamic model of particle coarsening and the asymptotic size distribution determined as a function of the particle volume fraction, φ. In agreement with earlier workers, it is shown that for diffusion-controlled coarsening the basic kinetic form r 3 ~Kt relating the mean particle radius, r, to the time, t, is maintained, with the rate constant K a function of the volume fraction. Derived values of K are, however, much less sensitive to φ than suggested by prior treatments and are thus shown to be more generally compatible with experimental observation. A critical test of the theory must await the acquisition of more accurate data than has been obtained hitherto.
Structural characterization of a dialkylgallium cation: X-ray crystal structure of [Me2Ga(tBuNH2)2]Br

Abstract The X-ray crystal structure of [Me 2 Ga( t BuNH 2 ) 2 ]Br ( 1 ) has been determined. The compound was prepared in a 51% yield via the reaction of t-BuNH 2 with Me 2 GaBr in Et 2 O solution. The solid state of 1 consists of [Me 2 Ga( t BuNH 2 ) 2 ) + cations and bromide anions. The gallium cation adopts a highly distorted tetrahedral geometry with Me(1)-Ga-Me(2) and N(1)-Ga-N(2) angles of 121.5(5) and 95.6(3)°, respectively.
On-Line Detergent Fluid Evaluation on a TF4OB Gas Turbine Engine

This paper presents results, evaluation, and comparisons between eleven on-line water wash detergents and water that were tested on a TF40B gas turbine engine. Comparisons were based on test cell data, field use data, environmental requirements, cost and U.S. Navy specification MIL-C-85704 Rev B, “Cleaning Compound, Turbine Engine Gas Path.” Detergents tested were: Turbotect 920 and 950, B&B TC-100, ZOK-27, R-MC, Fyrewash WB and SB. Turco 6783-50, Turboclean 2, EDC R-2701 and TEC 20. Fyrewash SB was the only solvent based online detergent tested. All other detergents were aqueous based.Copyright © 1994 by ASME
Filling of light emitting diode via-holes by MOCVD

The growth of epitaxial films on featured substrates has an important device application in junction-confinement, double hetero-structure light emitting diodes. These devices are presently grown by a liquid phase epitaxy process but growth by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition is desirable because of MOCVD's superior surface quality, uniformity, and throughput. This paper describes the effect of growth parameters on AlGaAs films deposited by atmospheric-pressure MOCVD into substrate holes typically made in the fabrication of junction-confinement LEDs. MOCVD growth replicates the substrate features; it does not give a planar surface over the holes. The behavior of epitaxy filling into holes is strongly dependent on growth temperature and total gas flow and largely independent of substrate misorientation and the thickness of the layer grown. Wet-etched holes formed (ll0)-oriented V-groove and dovetail-groove features on the hole circumference. Faceting of the MOCVD growth was seen on the wall with the (111)A feature while smooth growth was seen on the etched (111)B surface.
Internationalism in the age of nationalism

(1992). Internationalism in the age of nationalism. History of European Ideas: Vol. 15, No. 1-3, pp. 211-216.
Genetics of Dopamine and its Contribution to Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction is a major health and social problem for which there are presently no effective pharmacotherapies. Many of the most promising medications target dopamine based on the large literature that supports its role in addiction. Recent studies show that genetic factors are also important. Rodent models and gene knock-out technology have helped elucidate the involvement of specific genes in the function of the dopamine reward system and intracellular cascades that lead to neuronal changes in this system. Human epidemiological, linkage, and association studies have identified allelic variants (polymorphisms) that give rise to altered metabolism of dopamine and its functional consequences. Individuals with these polymorphisms respond differently to psychostimulants and possibly to pharmacotherapies. Here we review the literature on genetic variations that affect dopamine neurotransmission, responses to psychostimulants and potential treatments for cocaine addiction. Behavioral responses to psychostimulants in animals with different or modified genetics in dopamine signaling are discussed. We also review polymorphisms in humans that affect dopaminergic neurotransmission and alter the subjective effects of psychostimulants. Pharmacotherapies may have increased efficacy when targeted to individuals possessing specific genetic polymophisms in dopamine's metabolic and intracellular messenger systems.
Wide-field turbulence imaging with beam emission spectroscopy.

Imaging of the size, shape, time-averaged, and time-resolved dynamics of long-wavelength density turbulence structures is accomplished with an expanded, high-sensitivity, wide-field beam emission spectroscopy (BES) diagnostic on DIII-D. A 64-channel BES system is configured with an 8×8 grid of discrete channels that image an approximately 7×9 cm region at the outboard midplane. The grid covers multiple correlation lengths and each channel shape matches the measured radial-poloidal correlation length asymmetry of turbulent eddies. The wide field 8×8 imaging capability allows for sampling of essentially the full two-dimensional spatial correlation function for typical plasma conditions. The sampled area can be radially scanned over 0.4<r/a<1, including the core (n/n<1%), pedestal, and scrape-off-layer. The resulting time-resolved visualizations of turbulence and flows provide critical data on turbulence dynamics.
SEVERE, ACUTE NEUROTRAUMA ALTERS PHENYTOIN (DPH) PHARMACOKINETICS (PK) IN CHILDREN. † 463

In adults following acute, severe neurotrauma the metabolism of DPH is increased and albumin concentrations decrease. We evaluated 10 prepubescent children (3-11 yrs) who had severe, acute closed head injury (GCS 3-6) to determine the PK of IV DPH. Patients received a loading dose (17.7 ± 3.3 mg/kg) followed by a maintenance dose of 6.8 ± 1.6 mg/kg/day. DPH serum concentration-time data were collected up to 10 days following injury. DPH and albumin concentrations were determined by FPIA and RID, respectively. The Michaelis-Menten (MM) PK model and a time-variant MM model were fit to the total and unbound DPH concentration-time data (ADAPT II™). Unbound concentration-time data were the most reliable since albumin decreased over time (p<0.001). Also, the unbound fraction of DPH was inversely correlated with albumin concentration (r=0.578, p<0.001). The DPH PK parameters (mean ± sd) are summarized as follows:Table V, volume; Km, MM constant; Kind, rate constant of induction; Vmax, maximal velocity †Time variant MM model[Vmax=Vmaxinitial + Vmaxinduced (l-e-kind•T) for time-variant MM model] The time-variant MM model provided a superior fit of the data in 8 patients with no difference between models in 2 patients. In view of the Vmax for DPH reported for normal, non-stressed children (ie. 9.5-11 mg/kg/day), our PK data demonstrate that severe, acute neurotrauma markedly alters the metabolism of this drug. Specifically, a previously unrecognized rapid inhibition of metabolism (ie. mean Vmax = 0.11 mg/kg/day) occurs during the first hours post injury. This is followed by an induction of clearance as reflected by a Vmax (20.8 mg/kg/day) which is approximately 2 fold higher than “normal” values by 10 days post injury. These changes in DPH metabolism are associated with neurotrauma, and explain to a great degree, the variable dose requirements for DPH in these patients.
Calcified arteries in a gastropod.

The anterior aorta and major arteries of the land pulmonate snailAnguispira alternata have large calcium deposits in their walls. These deposits occur inside spherule cells, which line the walls of these vessels. The calcium occurs as amorphous calcium carbonate, in the form of intracellular spherules having alternating layers of organic and inorganic material. The spherule cells appear to be degenerating connective tissue cells; they are characterized by large numbers of spherules and by a cytoplasm which is totally empty except for a nucleus, scattered glycogen particles and a few membrane remnants. The injection of45Ca into the foot of the snail results in rapid incorporation of this calcium into the spherule cells. Although calcium-containing spherules are now known from a wide variety of invertebrate tissues, they have not been previously recorded from arterial walls. The physiologic significance of these deposits is not known.
Disparities in obesity among rural and urban residents in a health disparate region

The burden of obesity and obesity-related conditions is not borne equally and disparities in prevalence are well documented for low-income, minority and rural adults in the United States. The current literature on rural versus urban disparities is largely derived from national surveillance data which may not reflect regional nuances. There is little practical research that supports the reality of local service providers such as county health departments that may serve both urban and rural residents in a given area. Conducted through a community-academic partnership, the primary aim of this study is to quantify the current levels of obesity (BMI), fruit and vegetable (FV) intake and physical activity (PA) in a predominately rural health disparate region. Secondary aims are to determine if a gradient exists within the region in which rural residents have poorer outcomes on these indicators compared to urban residents. Conducted as part of a larger ongoing community-based participatory research (CBPR) initiative, data were gathered through a random digit dial telephone survey using previously validated measures (n = 784). Linear, logistic and quantile regression models are used to determine if residency (i.e. rural, urban) predicts outcomes of FV intake, PA and BMI. The majority (72%) of respondents were overweight (BMI = 29 ± 6 kg/m2), with 29% being obese. Only 9% of residents met recommendations for FV intake and 38% met recommendations for PA. Statistically significant gradients between urban and rural and race exist at the upper end of the BMI distribution. In other words, the severity of obesity is worse among black compared to white and for urban residents compared to rural residents. These results will be used by the community-academic partnership to guide the development of culturally relevant and sustainable interventions to increase PA, increase FV intake and reduce obesity within this health disparate region. In particular, local stakeholders may wish to address disparities in BMI by allocating resources to the vulnerable groups identified.
Robust Schur-stability of control systems with interval plants

The main contribution of this paper is a generalization of the Box Theorem, which was originally introduced for the Hurwitz case, for determining the robust Schur-stability of linear time-invariant discrete-time control systems containing an interval plant. This generalization provides necessary and sufficient conditions for the stability of a family of closed-loop characteristic polynomials <(z) = Q1,(z)P1(z) +... + Qm(z)Pm(z), where the Qis are fixed (controller) and then Pis are interval (plant) polynomials whose coefficients vary within a prescribed interval. This method requires checking a set of prescribed segment polynomials whose number is considerably less than that of the edges required by the edge theorem. A summary of the robust Schur-stability of discrete-time interval polynomials is presented.
Synthesis of molybdenum-rhodium and molybdenum-iridium compounds linked by a heterodifunctional ligand and formation of molybdenum-iridium dihydrides by reaction with molecular hydrogen

The preparation of a series of Rh(i)-Mo and Ir(I)-Mo compounds is reported. In addition, the formation of dihydrides from the oxidative addition of H/sub 2/ to the Ir(I) centers is discussed.
CONCEPT OF SELF AND ACADEMIC CHOICE

Sunmry.-820 undergraduate students from 7 schools of a major university responded to a checklist of 33 adjectives relating to various aspects of personality. The hypothesis was that the students would be consistent in their self-perceptions within schools and that on the average some schools would differ significantly from each other in general conform~ry with stereotypic expectations. The results indicated that undergraduate students do show consistency in their self-perceptions within schools and that they differ reliably from school to school, as was the case in an earlier study employing a biographical inventory, although the two instruments tap different aspects of self-perception.
Subjective response to alcohol: a critical review of the literature.

Background: Subjective response to alcohol (SR), which reflects individual differences in sensitivity to the pharmacological effects of alcohol, may be an important endophenotype in understanding genetic influences on drinking behavior and alcohol use disorders (AUDs). SR predicts alcohol use and problems and has been found to differ by a range of established risk factors for the development of AUDs (e.g., family history of alcoholism). The exact pattern of SR associated with increased risk for alcohol problems, however, remains unclear. The Low Level of Response Model (LLR) suggests that high-risk individuals experience decreased sensitivity to the full range of alcohol effects, while the Differentiator Model (DM) asserts that high risks status is associated with increased sensitivity to alcohol's positive effects but decreased sensitivity to negative effects. Aims: The current paper (1) reviews two prominent models of subjective response, (2) reviews extant laboratory-based research on subjective response, (3) highlights remaining gaps in our understanding and assessment of subjective response, and (4) encourages collaborative efforts to address these methodological and conceptual concerns. Methods: This paper reviews studies which employed placebo-controlled and non-placebo-controlled alcohol challenge paradigms to assess a range of alcohol effects including impairment, stimulation, and sedation. Results: The research literature provides at least partial support for both the LLR and DM models. High-risk individuals have been shown to have a reduced response to alcohol with respect to sedative or impairing effects, particularly on the descending limb of the blood alcohol curve (BAC). There is also evidence that ascending limb stimulant effects are more pronounced or operate differently for high-risk individuals. Discussion: Despite commendable advances in SR research, important questions remain unanswered. Inconsistent results across studies may be attributable to a combination of an inadequate understanding of the underlying construct and methodological differences across studies (e.g., number and timing of assessments across the BAC, inclusion of a placebo condition). With respect to the underlying construct, existing measures fail to adequately distinguish between cognitive/behavioral impairment and sedation, aspects of which may be perceived positively (e.g., anxiolysis) due to their ability to act as negative reinforcers. Conclusions: Addressing the concerns raised by the current review will be integral to making meaningful scientific progress in the field of subjective response. Language: en
An estimate of the radiation-induced cancer risk from the whole-body stray radiation exposure in neutron radiotherapy

Abstract The 1980 BEIR III risk factors have been used to estimate the secondary cancer risks from the whole-body stray radiation exposures which occur in neutron radiotherapy. The cancer risks have been calculated using the linear, linear-quadratic and quadratic dose-response models for the gamma component of the stray radiation. The linear dose-response model has been used to calculate the risk for the neutron component of the stray radiation. These risk estimates take into consideration for the first time the age and sex distribution of cancer patients undergoing neutron therapy. Changes in the cancer risk as a function of the RBE (10–100) assigned to the stray neutron radiation component have also been assessed. The excess risks in neutron-treated patients have been compared to the excess cancer risks for photon-treated patients and with the expected incidence of cancer in a normal population having the same age and sex distribution. These risk estimates clearly indicate that it will be necessary to tolerate a higher incidence of secondary cancers in patients undergoing fast neutron therapy than is the case with conventional photon therapy. However, for neutron RBEs of less than 50 the increased cancer risk is only a fraction of the normal expected incidence of cancer in this population. Moreover, comparison of the radiation-induced cancer risk with reported normal tissue complication rates in the treatment volume indicates that the excess cancer risk is substantially lower than the risk from other late normal tissue effects.
Bismuth nanoparticle decorating graphite felt as a high-performance electrode for an all-vanadium redox flow battery.

Employing electrolytes containing Bi3+, bismuth nanoparticles are synchronously electrodeposited onto the surface of a graphite felt electrode during operation of an all-vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB). The influence of the Bi nanoparticles on the electrochemical performance of the VRFB is thoroughly investigated. It is confirmed that Bi is only present at the negative electrode and facilitates the redox reaction between V(II) and V(III). However, the Bi nanoparticles significantly improve the electrochemical performance of VRFB cells by enhancing the kinetics of the sluggish V(II)/V(III) redox reaction, especially under high power operation. The energy efficiency is increased by 11% at high current density (150 mA·cm–2) owing to faster charge transfer as compared with one without Bi. The results suggest that using Bi nanoparticles in place of noble metals offers great promise as high-performance electrodes for VRFB application.
Dogs and Concepts

This article is a contribution to discussions about the prospects for a viable conceptualism, i.e., a viable view that represents our modes of awareness as conceptual all the way down. The article challenges the assumption, made by friends as well as foes of conceptualism, that a conceptualist stance necessarily commits us to denying animals minds. Its main argument starts from the conceptualist doctrine defended in the writings of John McDowell. Although critics are wrong to represent McDowell as implying that animals are mindless brutes, it is difficult to see what is wrong with this critical unless we depart from McDowell's technical terminology and introduce a notion of a concept flexible enough to apply to the lives of some non-rational animals. The article closes with a discussion of observations that speak for attributing concepts, flexibly understood, to dogs.
The Hispanic MMPI‐A across five countries

The Hispanic MMPI-A was developed for use with Spanish-speaking adolescents living in the United States. In order to sample its potential usefulness in other countries, the test was administered to 385 Spanish-speaking adolescents in Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Spain, and the United States. The results showed a high degree of similarity across the five countries on the basic content and supplementary scales. Most scales were within 1/2 standard deviation of the U.S. Hispanic mean, and no scale elevations were greater than T = 65. Slight differences (T = 55–60) were obtained on scale F for males and scales F, Hs, Mf (Peru and Colombia), Pa, and Sc for females. This study would suggest that the Hispanic MMPI-A, with its established norms, is appropriate for adaptation in Spanish-speaking countries other than the United States. Further studies with the Hispanic MMPI-A are recommended to determine its effectiveness in clinical assessment in Spanish-speaking countries. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 58: 407–417, 2002.
Are there real differences among aquatic and terrestrial food webs

Recently, aquatic and terrestrial ecologists have put forward several hypotheses regarding similarities and differences in food-web structure and function among these ecosystem types. Although many of these hypotheses explore why strong top-down effects and trophic cascades might be less common in terrestrial than in aquatic ecosystems, there is little theoretical or empirical evidence available to support or refute these hypotheses. Many unanswered questions remain about potential differences across ecosystem types: progress will require empirical studies designed within a broader context that allows for more direct comparisons.
Fibronectin-regulated methionine enkephalin-like and somatostatin-like immunoreactivity in quail neural crest cell cultures

Abstract The presence of cells with peptidergic immunoreactivity in neural crest cell cultures and the influence of fibronectin on their in vitro differentiation were evaluated by indirect immunostaining. Met-enkephalin-like immunoreactive and somatostatin-like immunoreactive cells were observed. Met-enkephalin-like immunoreactive cells resembled endocrine cells. A variety of morphologies was observed in the cells with somatostatin-like immunoreactivity: cells without processes which looked like endocrine cells, multipolar cells with long varicose processes resembling sympathetic neurons, and bipolar cells which were similar to sensory neuroblasts. Differentiation of both types of peptidergic cells was promoted by adding fibronectin to the culture medium. The results suggest that neural crest cell cultures may become a valuable experimental system with which to study the early development of peripheral peptidergic neurons and endocrine cells.
T Lymphocytes Are Direct, Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR)-Dependent Targets of 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD): AhR Expression in Both CD4+ and CD8+ T Cells Is Necessary for Full Suppression of a Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte Response by TCDD

The cellular basis for the potent suppression of T cell-mediated immune responses in mice following exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is not fully understood. Although activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is required, the specific AhR+ cells that transduce the suppression have been difficult to identify in vivo. The recent availability of AhR−/− mutant mice has provided a resource for novel approaches to investigate the direct targets of TCDD. In our studies, we used an in vivo acute graft versus host (GVH) model of T cell immunity to address the direct AhR-dependent effects of TCDD on T cells. In this model, T cells from C57B1/6 mice are injected into C57B1/6 × DBA/2 F1 host mice. The injected T cells recognize the MHC disparity of the host cells, resulting in the generation of an antihost cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response. By comparing the ability of TCDD to suppress the CTL response of T cells obtained from AhR+/+ and AhR−/− C57B1/6 mice, the need for AhR expression in T cells themselves could be assessed. The results of these studies showed that the CTL response of T cells from AhR+/+ mice was highly suppressed when the F1 host mice were treated with 15μg/kg TCDD. TCDD treatment also protected the F1 host mice from the loss of body weight that accompanies the induction of the GVH response. In contrast, when grafted T cells were derived from AhR−/− mice, there was no suppression of the CTL response by TCDD, and the host animals lost significant body weight. Furthermore, when T cells from AhR+/+ and AhR−/− mice were separated into CD4+ and CD8+ subsets and recombined using one subset from each donor prior to injection into the F1 host, suppression of the CTL response by TCDD was still apparent, but the degree of suppression was significantly reduced when either subset was AhR−/−. These results indicate that direct AhR-dependent effects of TCDD occur in both CD4+ and CD8+ T cell subsets and both T cell subsets contribute to the full suppression of the CTL response by TCDD.
Investigations into the Cation Specificity and Metabolic Requirements for Paraquat Transport in Roots of Intact Maize Seedlings

Abstract The effect of inorganic polyvalent cations and metabolic inhibitors on the transport of paraquat into maize root epidermal and cortical cells was investigated. Increasing concentrations of Ca2+ caused a progressive inhibition of the saturable component of paraquat uptake, which represents influx across the plasmalemma, and a more modest inhibition in the slope of the linear component, which is due to binding of paraquat within the cell wall. Lineweaver-Burk transformation of the saturable component from these experiments indicated that Ca2+ inhibition of paraquat uptake is noncompetitive. Reciprocal interactions between paraquat and Ca2+ were observed, in that paraquat also inhibited Ca2+ influx into root cells. Saturable paraquat uptake was not affected when the calcium channel blocker verapamil (400 μM) was present in the uptake medium, indicating that paraquat does not move across the plasmalemma via calcium channels. Mg2+ and La3+ also inhibited the saturable component in a manner similar to that of Ca2+. Cyanide (500 μM) and carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) (20 μM) had little effect on the saturable component in intact roots, suggesting that paraquat uptake into maize root cells is not directly dependent on cytoplasmic ATP levels or H+ gradients. When roots reloaded for 160 min with 100 μM paraquat (to increase cytoplasmic paraquat levels, and in turn, reduce the inwardly directed chemical gradient for paraquat influx) were exposed to 20 μM CCCP, a 37% reduction in the Vmax for saturable paraquat uptake was determined. These results suggest that the driving force for paraquat uptake is the gradient for electrochemical potential of paraquat across the plasmalemma.
Cognitive Ability Tests and the Situational Interview: A Test of Incremental Validity

This study investigated the validity and incremental validity of a situational interview beyond that of a composite measure of cognitive ability. Forty-seven factory service technicians underwent an interview and took four cognitive ability tests. Supervisors rated the performance of these subjects in a concurrent validation study. The interview was found to be a valid predictor of a supervisor rating of performance (r = 0.32, p < 0.05 uncorrected), however, was unable to show incremental validity over ability tests (Incremental R2= 0.05, n.s.). Limitations of the present study and directions for future research are discussed.
Toward a New Understanding of Alternative Service Delivery: Why Do Local Governments Decide to Contract Out?

There is limited empirical evidence on why municipal contracting takes place. To fill this void, this research presents a comprehensive model of service contracting which incorporates the economic, demographic, political, organizational, and legal variables that influence contracting decisions. The types of factors which influence the decision to contract out are identified through regression analysis and case studies. Economic-based factors, demographic factors, and organizational factors are found to be the most important determinants of local contracting decisions. These findings are an important addition to understanding the municipal service delivery decision-making process.
Negative ion electron impact studies of titanium tetrahalides

Abstract The introduction of the vapors of TiCl4, TiBr4 and TiI4 into the ion source of a time-of-flight mass spectrometer, followed by low-energy electron impact, gave the ions X− and TiX3−. Appearance potentials have been determined by deconvolution of the dissociative resonance capture curves, and translational energies of the ions have been measured through the resonance processes. The results for TiX3− allow ΔHf(TiX3− and EA(TiX3) to be established: ΔHf(TiCl3−) = −142.8±3.2, ΔHf(TiBr3− = −108.1±3.5, ΔHf(TiI3−) 0.9 eV. The ion X− is formed along with electronically excited neutral TiX3, and the results allow the electronic transition energy to be determined: 4.8±0.2, 3.3±0.3 and 2.2±0.5 eV, for TiCl3, TiBr3 and TiI3, respectively. Only the parent negative ion was observed over TiF4.
Adrenergic Receptors Activate Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase in Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells ROLE IN MITOGENESIS

Abstract Activation of α adrenergic receptors stimulates mitogenesis in human vascular smooth muscle cells (HVSMCs). To examine signaling pathways by which activation of α receptors may induce mitogenesis in HVSMCs, we have found that α receptor stimulated-DNA synthesis and activation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase are blocked by wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase). To determine directly if activation of α receptors stimulated PI 3-kinase, in vitro assays of kinase activity were performed in immunocomplexes precipitated by an antibody against the p85α subunit of PI 3-kinase. Noradrenaline stimulated a time- and concentration-dependent activation of PI 3-kinase in the presence of a β adrenergic receptor antagonist. Noradrenaline-stimulated PI 3-kinase activation was blocked by antagonists of α receptors and by pertussis toxin, suggesting that α receptors activate PI 3-kinase via a pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein. Direct activation of protein kinase C by a phorbol ester did not stimulate PI 3-kinase; also, a Ca L-channel blocker did not inhibit noradrenaline-stimulated PI 3-kinase activity. Increased PI 3-kinase activity was detected in both anti-Ras and anti-phosphotyrosine immunoprecipitates from noradrenaline-stimulated HVSMCs. Moreover, noradrenaline stimulated formation of active Ras-GTP complexes. Because blockade of PI 3-kinase by wortmannin inhibited formation of this complex, this result suggests that Ras might be a target of PI 3-kinase. Noradrenaline stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of the p85 subunit of PI 3-kinase, and a phosphorylated tyrosine protein could be co-immunoprecipitated with anti-p85 of PI 3-kinase. These results demonstrate that stimulation of α receptors activates PI 3-kinase in HVSMCs and that α receptor-activated PI 3-kinase is associated with an increase in active Ras-GTP and activation of tyrosine protein phosphorylation. These pathways may contribute to α receptor-stimulated mitogenic responses including activation of MAP kinase and DNA synthesis in HVSMCs.
Numerical analysis of blood flow in the heart

Abstract The flow pattern of blood in the heart is intimately connected with the performance of the heart valves. This paper extends previous work on the solution of the Navier-Stokes equations in the presence of moving immersed boundaries which interact with the fluid. The boundary representation now includes the muscular heart wall. The fixed topology of the boundary representation is exploited in the solution of the nonlinear equations which implicitly define the boundary forces. An improved numerical representation of the δ-function is introduced. A fast Laplace-solver is used. The results of calculations with a natural valve and with a prosthetic valve are presented.
The selection of appropriate dosages for intravenous ciprofloxacin

A variety of toxicological, clinical and pharmacokinetic parameters were utilized in an evolving process to determine the optimum dosage for intravenous ciprofloxacin. Despite the clinical efficacy of 200-300 mg administered every 12 h, there have been concerns that this might be inadequate for certain pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and streptococci. Pharmacokinetic studies have established the bioequivalence of the iv and oral formulations of ciprofloxacin. With respect to the AUC, 400 mg of iv ciprofloxacin was equivalent to 500 mg po and the Cmax of 400 mg administered iv over 1 h approximated that following a 750 mg tablet. Final FDA approval of iv ciprofloxacin was ultimately based on the demonstration of the bioequivalence of the iv and oral formulations, the latter having proven clinical efficacy. For severe systemic infections, a daily dosage of 1200 mg (400 mg tds) of iv ciprofloxacin would be equivalent to 1500 mg (750 mg bd) taken by mouth.
Thermal stress analysis of a multichip package design

The authors present a thermal analysis of a thin-film multichip package design, with emphasis on thermally induced stress in the critical package components. The package uses flip-chip solder bonding and thin-film interconnections between chips. Indium was chosen as the die attachment medium between each chip and the water-cooled heat sink. A methodology is given to estimate the stresses in the structure during a power-up. Finite-difference and finite-element computer simulations were used to calculate the temperature and stress distributions under both transient and steady-state conditions. It is shown how thermal gradients, expansion mismatches, and global bending of the structure determine the stress distribution. The components in the module have various thermal time constants, and the stresses during a transient are related to the rate at which each component heats up. For instance, the chips and the heat sink complete 70% of their temperature rise in the first 200 ms, but the substrate takes over 10 s to reach 70% of its steady-state temperature rise. Therefore, even if a design is optimized to be thermal expansion matched under operating conditions, stresses can develop during a transient. >
PCB via depth effect on SSN for FPGA

This paper analyzes the effects of the PCB signal via depth on the simultaneous switching noise (SSN) in a field programmable gate array (FPGA) device. SSN consists of two distinct components: mutual inductive coupling noise and power distribution network (PDN) noise. This paper presents an experimental study of the PCB signal via depth effects on mutual inductive coupling noise using an Altera FPGA device. This paper also describes the return current path concept and the effect of the return current path on SSN in a multi-layer PCB. The results from this study assist electronic system designers in understanding the PCB signal via depth effects on SSN and identifying strategies for reducing and minimizing SSN.
Effects of Divorce upon School Self-Esteem and Achievement of 10-, 11-, and 12-Year-Old Children:

17 children of divorce who were between the ages of 10 and 12 yr. were compared with 60 similarly aged peers of nondivorced parents on four self-esteem measures, defined by the Coopersmith, and one achievement measure, the Stanford Achievement Test. Neither multivariate effects nor univariate differences were observed.
Finite Element Analysis of Jointed Concrete Pavements

A finite element method programmed for a computer is presented for determining the stresses and deflections in multiple slabs on elastic solids. The method is an extension to that presented in a previous paper by applying the analysis from two slabs to multiple slabs with various types of shear transfer across the joints and by incorporating a method of successive approximations for checking partial contact. These modifications make possible the application of the computer program to many practical cases which could not be analyzed previously. Comparisons of the stresses and deflections obtained by the method with those measured in the Arlington test for several cases of loading show that if the load is away from the pavement edge, the finite element solutions based on full contact check reasonably well with the experimental measurements. However, if the load is applied near to the pavement edge, the computed deflections based on partial contact check more closely with the measured deflections than those based on full contact.