cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High-Throughput Screening of Chemical Libraries for Modulators of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Chondrogenesis

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a multi-potential cell type that can be induced to differentiate to a variety of tissue-specific cell phenotypes, including cartilage (chondrogenesis) and bone (osteogenesis). Given this multi-potentiality, MSCs are a promising cell source for exploring developmental paradigms and for tissue engineering (TE) applications. For cartilage formation assays, MSCs are collected in high-density pellets and treated with specific biofactors, including TGF-β superfamily members and dexamethasone in a chemically defined medium (CM) [1]. During chondrogenesis, extracellular matrix (ECM) rich in glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and type II collagen is synthesized. While MSC chondrogenesis is well-characterized using existing protocols, the effect of alternative biofactors, their doses and combinations requires laborious combinatorial studies [2]. High-throughput screening (HTS) overcomes this limitation through the simultaneous layout and query of a large number of conditions within a single plate. HTS depends on the use of precise robotic liquid handling systems and on the development of sensitive, validated, and readily quantifiable assays. In a recent study, we optimized cell culture and assay procedures for HTS by minimizing cell number, handling and culture duration [3]. We successfully reduced the time scale from 21 to 7 days and the number of cells required from 225K to 30K cells per pellet. Further, we developed a novel in-well digestion protocol to enable high-throughput analysis and minimize handling. In this study, we have further streamlined these assays for HTS by providing a rapid and robotic approach for layout, culture, and analysis of ECM deposition using ‘micro’ MSC pellets (10K cells per pellet) in a 384-well format. Furthermore, we have carried out an initial screen of the NINDS small molecule library and demonstrated the feasibility of this technology for use in HTS of chondrogenesis.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
The fine structure of cortisone-induced myopathy

Abstract Extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus (SOL) muscles of rats subjected to chronic cortisone administration were studied by electron microscopy. The specimens were randomly selected, coded, and examined by four observers. Although subsarcolemmal mitochondrial aggregates and Z line “smearing” (both changes previously reported in steroid myopathy) were seen, there was no significant difference in their occurrence comparing experimental to control groups and no other ultrastructural abnormalities were found. Histochemical study of the corresponding muscles from the opposite sides showed type II fiber atrophy most prominent in EDL. This nonspecific pathological finding may be related to a loss of neural trophic influence. As seen in this study, however, it is not necessarily accompanied by the ultrastructural changes of denervation atrophy.
Island and island-like effects on vocal repertoire of singing honeyeaters

In this study of songs of the singing honeyeater, Meliphaga virescens, we examined the consequences of isolation on the meme pool of syllables from which songs are constructed. We sampled four populations in Western Australia, two of which were sampled 7 years earlier. One mainland sample area, with a large number of syllable types, is part of a geographically extensive population whereas the other three samples with smaller syllable pools are from isolated island or island-like populations. The reduction in size of syllable repertoires of the more isolated populations may have resulted from founder effect. Comparisons over the 7-year period indicated that the population proportions of the syllable types did not change significantly in either of the two resampled populations, although the correlation between sample years was stronger in the mainland population than in that of the island. In the two resampled populations, we found some new syllables, but some that were present 7 years earlier were missing. Two new syllables appear to have been derived from ones present in the earlier sample, perhaps representing cultural drift.
A survey of plant and algal genomes and transcriptomes reveals new insights into the evolution and function of the cellulose synthase superfamily

Enzymes of the cellulose synthase (CesA) family and CesA-like (Csl) families are responsible for the synthesis of celluloses and hemicelluloses, and thus are of great interest to bioenergy research. We studied the occurrences and phylogenies of CesA/Csl families in diverse plants and algae by comprehensive data mining of 82 genomes and transcriptomes. We found that 1) charophytic green algae (CGA) have orthologous genes in CesA, CslC and CslD families; 2) liverwort genes are found in the CesA, CslA, CslC and CslD families; 3) The fern Pteridium aquilinum not only has orthologs in these conserved families but also in the CslB, CslH and CslE families; 4) basal angiosperms, e.g. Aristolochia fimbriata, have orthologs in these families too; 5) gymnosperms have genes forming clusters ancestral to CslB/H and to CslE/J/G respectively; 6) CslG is found in switchgrass and basal angiosperms; 7) CslJ is widely present in dicots and monocots; 8) CesA subfamilies have already diversified in ferns. We speculate that: (i) ferns and horsetails might both have CslH enzymes, responsible for the synthesis of mixed-linkage glucans and (ii) CslD and similar genes might be responsible for the synthesis of mannans in CGA. Our findings led to a more detailed model of cell wall evolution and suggested that gene loss played an important role in the evolution of Csl families. We also demonstrated the usefulness of transcriptome data in the study of plant cell wall evolution and diversity.
The chemical peel.

Chemical peeling of facial skin has become a valuable adjunct in the armamentarium of the facial aesthetic surgeon. Among the various techniques available, phenol solutions are the most commonly used. Peeling produces a controlled, partial-thickness chemical burn of the epidermis and the outer dermis. Several techniques are available to "fine tune" the depth of the peel. Regeneration of peeled skin results in a fresh, orderly, organized epidermis. In the dermis, a new 2- to 3-mm band of dense, compact, orderly collagen is formed between the epidermis and the underlying damaged dermis, which results in effective ablation of the fine wrinkles in the skin and a reduction of pigmentation. These clinical and histological changes are long lasting (15-20 years) and may be permanent in some patients. Because of the metabolism and systemic complications of phenol, patient selection should involve systemic evaluation of liver, renal, and cardiac function, as well as an evaluation of the skin quality and medication status of the patient. Because of potential cardiac arrhythmias, peeling must be performed in a medically supervised environment, with continuous cardiac monitoring. The local complications of peeling include pigmentation changes, scarring, milia, ectropion, infection, activation of herpes simplex, and toxic shock syndrome.
Stochastic Automata and the Problems of Reliability in Sequential Machines

A stochastic sequential machine model is employed to investigate some of the problems concerning the reliability of sequential machines. Two methods, using the notions of entropy for stochastic automata and principal entries in their transition matrices, are used and compared for reliability estimates. The problem of synthesizing automata of given known reliability through replication and voting is also examined.
Removal of Solid Organic Films from Rotating Disks Using Emulsion Cleaners.

Measurements have been made of the rate of removal of a solid organic film (phenanthrene) from the surface of a rotating disk using emulsions containing water, the nonionic surfactant Tween 20, and d-limonene as the organic phase. The results show that phenanthrene removal initially occurs by the uptake of phenanthrene into the emulsion drops as small aggregates. Simultaneously, the organic phase penetrates into the phenanthrene film, diminishing the adhesive force between the film and the substrate. After sufficient time, the phenanthrene film detaches from the rotating disk surface as a solid. This detachment mechanism accounts for the vast majority of the phenanthrene removal (∼90%). Initial solubilization rates were analyzed using two solubilization models. Both models assume that phenanthrene removal occurs via a mass transfer limited removal of phenanthrene-laden emulsion drops from the phenanthrene film surface into the bulk solution. One model treats the emulsion as homogeneous while the other accounts for the finite size of the emulsion droplets. The latter model was also used to relate the flux of organic phase impacting the phenanthrene film to the detachment times.
Critical Thickness for Three-Dimensional Epitaxial Island Growth

The generation of misfit dislocation loops in three-dimensional epitaxial islands grown on thick substrates is analyzed. The coherent strain in the island is described by virtual interfacial dislocation loops situated in the interface. The traction free surface boundary conditions are satisfied by the surface dislocation loops situated on the surface of the island. A misfit dislocation loop is formed and the changes in the energy of the configuration used to determine if the total energy is lowered. The numerical analysis is carried out forhemispherical islands of GaAs grown on (100) silicon with a misfit dislocation of Burgers vector 3.84 A. It has been found energetically favorable to nucleate a misfit dislocation loop at a distance of 3 a from the interface when the radius of the hemispherical island is equal to or greater than 40 a. In addition, a misfit dislocation loop could be nucleated at a larger distance from the interface when the size of the island is larger.
Analytical Load Rating of an Open-Spandrel Arch Bridge: Case Study

The live load structural capacity of open-spandrel arch bridge structures is difficult to quantify. In addition to live and dead loads, geometric nonlinear effects, temperature effects, and material behavior play key roles in the design and load rating of such a structure. This paper is a case study that illustrates the effect these variables have on load rating a two-span shallow concrete arch bridge. Presented are load ratings of the structure’s arch ribs using a three-dimensional finite-element model with American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials publications. As a result of this study, a refined analysis is recommended for load rating arch bridges.
A proposed structure for an international convention on climate change.

Formal negotiations toward an international convention on climate change will begin shortly after completion of the interim report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC); presentation of the report to the Second World Climate Conference will be this fall. In a 25 May speech responding to greenhouse warming predictions made by the IPCC science working group, Margaret Thatcher said that Britain would reduce the proposed growth of its CO{sub 2} emissions enough to stabilize them at 1990 levels by 2005 if other countries did their part. Yet the United States, Japan, and other countries that emit substantial quantities of greenhouse gases continue to resist potentially expensive emission-reduction targets or control measures, citing continuing uncertainties about the extent, timing, and distribution of future climate change and its economic consequences. Similarly, developing countries are unlikely to agree to emissions targets or control measures that they perceive as impeding their economic development and will almost certainly condition their participation on a commitment by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries to provide additional development assistance. A central task for a climate convention will be to provide the international community with a permanent mechanism for coordinating its efforts to deal withmore » climate change.« less
Extending the Box–Cox transformation to the linear mixed model

Summary. For a univariate linear model, the Box–Cox method helps to choose a response transformation to ensure the validity of a Gaussian distribution and related assumptions. The desire to extend the method to a linear mixed model raises many vexing questions. Most importantly, how do the distributions of the two sources of randomness (pure error and random effects) interact in determining the validity of assumptions? For an otherwise valid model, we prove that the success of a transformation may be judged solely in terms of how closely the total error follows a Gaussian distribution. Hence the approach avoids the complexity of separately evaluating pure errors and random effects. The extension of the transformation to the mixed model requires an exploration of its potential effect on estimation and inference of the model parameters. Analysis of longitudinal pulmonary function data and Monte Carlo simulations illustrate the methodology discussed.
Recurrent catheter-related bloodstream infections : risk factors and outcome

Summary Objective To identify risk factors for recurrent catheter related bloodstream infections (CR-BSIs). The study was undertaken at the University of Utah Hospital and involved patients who had a CR-BSI followed by catheter removal and reinsertion between January 1998 and February 2002. Design A retrospective chart review for the cohort study of catheters initially infected, which were then followed to study risk factors for a subsequent infection. Both central line and peripherally inserted central line catheters were included in the study. A recurrent CR-BSI was defined as positive blood cultures after three negative cultures, coupled with positive catheter tip culture or no other evident new source of infection. Results Twenty-five (34%) of 73 patients had a recurrent CR-BSI. The first CR-BSI occurred a mean of 20.4 days after catheter insertion whereas recurrence developed a mean of 12.1 days after reinsertion ( p =0.392). Coagulase-negative staphylococci (60%) were the most common cause of recurrent infection. The recurrence was more common among the patients who were given blood product transfusion (hazard ratio (HR) 2.3; confidence interval (CI) 1.02–5.67, p =0.049). In 20 (27%) patients, catheters were changed over a guidewire. The guidewire catheter exchange was not found to be associated with an increased risk of recurrent infection ( p =0.582). Conclusion Catheter replacement to a new site, instead of rewiring, was not shown to decrease the risk for recurrent infection. The transfusion of blood products was associated with an increased risk for recurrent infection.
The Institutional Barriers to Heterodox Pluralism

This paper applies the feminist concept of epistemological communities to the project of promoting pluralism in the economics discipline. I argue that the economics profession does not resemble a unified and coherent epistemological community and is better viewed as many different yet overlapping and intersecting smaller communities. I argue that this reimaging of the community of economists implies a different conception of pluralism. In an environment where theory is developed at different intersections of epistemological communities, pluralism requires distinguishing between the public process of debate that provides critical evaluation of knowledge claims and the private process of determining what is published and it requires different strategies for evaluating work for publication.
“Resolved That the Mind of Woman Is Not Inferior to That of Man”: Women's Oratorical Preparation in California State Normal School Coeducational Literary Societies in the Late Nineteenth Century

Complicating claims about the decline of oratorical culture in the nineteenth century, this article demonstrates that rhetorical training was integral to the coeducational literary societies at California State Normal School in the 1870s and 1890s and that women benefited from such education. The societies were based on assumptions of relative equality between the sexes, fostering the development of teachers who would serve as powerful public speakers and leaders within their communities. This study also challenges arguments concerning the feminization of argumentation in the nineteenth century by highlighting the centrality of debate to the societies and the ways this argument overlooks such activities.
The preparation of several new ternary oxides of osmium

Abstract Several ternary oxides of osmium were prepared by the thermal decomposition of hydroxide intermediates. X-Ray powder diffraction data, refined cell parameters, and formation and decomposition temperatures for each compound are given.
Gene conversion, recombination nodules, and the initiation of meiotic synapsis

The nature of the relationship between the two types of meiotic recombination outcomes, exchange (crossing-over) and simple gene conversion, has been debated for years. I here propose that these two types of events are not necessarily causally related and hypothesize that the primary role of events detected as simple gene conversion is in the recognition of homology during synapsis.
The Second Virial Coefficient for Gases: a Critical Comparison between Theoretical and Experimental Results

On the basis of a recent theory developed by London the second virial coefficient of the following gases is computed: He, Ne, A, ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$, ${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$, C${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$, N${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$, ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$O. For the latter two, which have a dipole moment, the contribution of the dipole interaction is also calculated. The results are compared graphically with experimental values. Except in the case of He and ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, where the disagreement can be accounted for by the presence of zero point energy, the accordance is as good as is compatible with the inaccuracies involved in the calculation.
The presence of acyl-CoA: Cholesterol acyltransferase in Tetrahymena pyriformis W

1. 1. The esterification of cholesterol was studied in Tetrahymena pyriformis an organism which does not synthesize sterols nor are sterols required for growth. 2. 2. Microsomes catalyzed the esterification of cholesterol in the presence of oleoyl-CoA but not oleic acid or lecithin. 3. 3. The enzyme has a similar sterol substrate specificity to that of mammalian acyl-CoA: cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT) and was inhibited by the specific ACAT inhibitor 58-035. 4. 4. The enzyme is constitutive since activity was observed in cells grown in sterol-free medium when cholesterol was added to the in vitro assay.
Intrathoracic lymphadenopathy in hospitalized patients with pneumococcal pneumonia.

Purpose Pneumococcal pneumonia is the most common etiology for community-acquired pneumonia. The prevalence of lymphadenopathy seen on CT scans in these patients is uncertain. The purpose of this series was to assess the prevalence of intrathoracic lymphadenopathy in hospitalized patients with pneumococcal pneumonia Materials and methods We retrospectively identified 35 hospitalized patients with pneumococcal pneumonia who had been evaluated with CT scanning between January 1998 and April 2002. There were 18 men and 17 women with a mean age of 56 years. The study inclusion criteria were as follows: blood culture positive for Streptococcus pneumoniae , clinical diagnosis of pneumonia, and chest CT scan. The study exclusion criteria were known causes of lymphadenopathy. Charts were reviewed for HIV status, smoking history, and comorbidities. CT scans were reviewed for the presence and degree of lymphadenopathy, and the characteristics of pneumonia. The number of enlarged lymph nodes was graded as few (one to two), moderate (three to five), or many (six or more). Pneumonias were described by location, the number of involved lobes, the presence of cavitation, and the presence of pleural effusion. Patients with different comorbidities and different imaging characteristics of pneumonia were compared Results Among the 35 patients with pneumococcal pneumonia, intrathoracic lymphadenopathy was present on CT scans in 54% of patients (19 of 35 patients). The lymphadenopathy was ipsilateral to the pneumonia in 100% of patients (19 of 19 patients). One patient also had contralateral lymphadenopathy. The lymphadenopathy was graded as few in 37% of patients (7 of 19 patients), moderate in 37% of patients (7 of 19 patients), and many in 26% of patients (5 of 19 patients). The pneumonia was right-sided in 26% of patients (9 of 35 patients), left-sided in 17% of patients (6 of 35 patients), and bilateral in 57% of patients (20 of 35 patients). Comorbidities included the following: HIV infection (n = 15); smoking (n = 21); emphysema (n = 5); hepatitis C (n = 5); and diabetes (n = 3). The characteristics of pneumonia included the following: multilobar (n = 25); pleural effusion (n = 25); and cavitation (n = 5). The prevalence of lymphadenopathy according to comorbidities and characteristics of pneumonia ranged from 40 to 100%. None of the differences in prevalence of lymphadenopathy among the subgroups was statistically significant Conclusion Lymphadenopathy is a common CT scan feature of pneumococcal pneumonia in hospitalized patients, in a variety of settings. Therefore, when a patient with pneumococcal pneumonia has lymphadenopathy seen on a CT scan, other etiologies for the lymphadenopathy need not be suspected
NuSerum, a synthetic serum replacement, supports chondrogenesis of embryonic chick limb bud mesenchymal cells in micromass culture

In an effort to establish a more chemically defined culture system to study the regulation of chondrogenic differentiation in vitro, two commercially available serum replacements, NuSerum and NuSerum IV, were tested on embryonic limb mesenchyme. Limb bud (LB) mesenchymal cells were isolated from Hamilton-Hamburger stage 23–24 chick embryos and plated at various densities (1, 5, 10, or 20 × 106 cells/ml) in micromass culture for 4 days in media supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), NuSerum or NuSerum IV. Cell growth was assessed by the incorporation of [3H]leucine and [3H]thymidine. Chondrogenesis was determined by the incorporation of [35S]sulfate and by the number of Alcian blue-staining cartilage nodules. In high density (20 × 106 cells/ml) cultures, which favored chondrogenic differentiation, both serum replacements supported protein synthesis and chondrogenesis equally well as FBS. In cultures plated at 5 × 106 cells/ml, a cell density in which was chondrogenesis-limiting, both NuSerum and NuSerum IV significantly enhanced incorporation of [35S]sulfate (2.6-fold), [3H]leucine (1.4-fold), and [3H]thymidine (1.9-fold), compared to FBS. Enhancement of chondrogenesis was also apparent by the increases in the number of Alcian blue-staining cartilage nodules and the ratio of sulfate: leucine incorporation in cultures plated at 5 × 106 cells/ml. Interestingly, the localization of cartilage nodules was extended out to the periphery of micromass cultures fed with NuSerum or NuSerum IV. The observed effects of NuSerum and NuSerum IV may be attributed to a combination of factors, including lower concentrations of serum and its associated proteins, as well as supplemented growth factors and hormones known to promote cell proliferation and differentiation. Therefore, NuSerum and NuSerum IV are excellent, low-cost replacements for FBS in maintaining cellular growth and promoting chondrogenesis in LB mesenchymal cell cultures in vitro.
Tridiphane [2-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)-2-(2,2,2-trichloroethyl)oxirane] an atrazine synergist: Enzymatic conversion to a potent glutathione S-transferase inhibitor

Abstract Glutathione S -transferases (GST) from corn, giant foxtail, onion, pea, house fly, and equine liver catalyzed conjugation of tridiphane with glutathione (GSH). The conjugate was characterized by soft ionization mass spectral methods. Tridiphane and the GSH conjugate of tridiphane both inhibited GSH conjugation of atrazine in vitro (corn and giant foxtail). Tridiphane did not inhibit GSH conjugation of 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) in corn or giant foxtail; however, the GSH conjugate of tridiphane was a competitive inhibitor with respect to GSH and was four times more effective with extracts from giant foxtail ( K i = 2 μM ) than from corn ( K i = 8 μM ). The GSH conjugate of tridiphane inhibited a variety of GST enzymes with several different substrates. When compared to other inhibitors of GST, only triphenyl tin chloride was more effective than the GSH conjugate of tridiphane in inhibition of GST from giant foxtail. Both GST and GSH decreased in corn and increased in giant foxtail as tissues matured. The catabolism of the GSH conjugate of tridiphane was compared in crude enzyme systems from corn, giant foxtail, and onion. The rate of catabolism was much greater in extracts from corn leaves than from giant foxtail leaves. Inhibition of GSH conjugation of CDNB was reversed as the GSH conjugate of tridiphane was catabolized. The possibility that synergism of atrazine toxicity by tridiphane is mediated by conversion of tridiphane to a GSH conjugate is discussed in relationship to the relative rates of GSH conjugation of tridiphane and atrazine, concentrations of GSH, K i values, tissue age, and stability of the conjugate in different tissues.
Effects of advertising cues on brand extension evaluation: A global versus focused processing style account

It is well known that the effectiveness of a brand extension strategy depends on the degree of perceived similarity between the parent brand and the extension and a host of important contextual variables. One such potential variable is the consumer's global versus local processing type. Using a converging operations approach, we show through three experiments that parent-extension similarity has weaker effects on extension evaluation in global processing while local processing leads to a heightened concern for the similarity of the extension. Importantly, global/local processing can be perceptually primed using advertising-specific procedures that operate independently of the focal brand and extension.
Cholestatic Syndromes in Infancy: Diagnostic Value of Serum Bile Acid Pattern and Cholestyramine Administration

Extract: Changes in serum bile acid concentrations, before and after cholestyramine therapy, in a group of seven infants with extrahepatic biliary atresia and other cholestatic syndromes were measured with gas-liquid chromatography. Table I lists pertinent clinical and laboratory data and documents that all had consistently marked elevations of serum bile acid levels ranging from 48 to 444 $mUg/ml. Four infants with biliary atresia had predominantly chenodeoxycholate in plasma. Administration of cholestryamine caused a reduction in serum bile acids in some infants and a slight increase in the cholate to chenodeoxycholate ratio from less than 1 to a maximum of 1.3. Three children with intrahepatic cholestatic syndromes had predominantly cholic acid in plasma. Cholestyramine caused a reduction in total serum bile acids with an increase in the cholate to chenodeoxycholate ratio from 3.5 to 13. The rationale for the use of cholestyramine is based on its capacity to bind bile salts in the intestines. Speculation: Analysis of serum bile acid pattern in infants with cholestatic syndromes before and after cholestyramine administration may identify infants with intrahepatic disease and thus avoid surgical exploration.
Decreased orthostatic adrenergic reactivity in non-dipping postural tachycardia syndrome

Whether non-dipping - the loss of the physiologic nocturnal drop in blood pressure - among patients with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is secondary to autonomic neuropathy, a hyperadrenergic state, or other factors remains to be determined. In 51 patients with POTS (44 females), we retrospectively analyzed 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure recordings, laboratory indices of autonomic function, orthostatic norepinephrine response, 24-hour natriuresis and peak exercise oxygen consumption. Non-dipping (<10% day-night drop in systolic blood pressure) was found in 55% (n=28). Dippers and non-dippers did not differ in: 1) baseline characteristics including demographic and clinical profile, sleep duration, daytime blood pressure, 24-hour natriuresis, and peak exercise oxygen consumption; 2) severity of laboratory autonomic deficits (sudomotor, cardiovagal and adrenergic); 3) frequency of autonomic neuropathy (7/23 vs. 8/28, P=0.885); 4) supine resting heart rate (75.3±14.0bpm vs. 74.0±13.8bpm, P=0.532); or 5) supine plasma norepinephrine level (250.0±94.9pg/ml vs. 207.0±86.8pg/ml, P=0.08). However, dippers differed significantly from non-dippers in that they had significantly greater orthostatic heart rate increment (43±16bpm vs. 35±10bpm, P=0.007) and significantly greater orthostatic plasma norepinephrine increase (293±136.6pg/ml vs. 209±91.1pg/ml, P=0.028). Our data indicate that in patients with POTS, a non-dipping blood pressure profile is associated with a reduced orthostatic sympathetic reactivity not accounted for by autonomic neuropathy.
Development of soil microbial communities during tallgrass prairie restoration.

Abstract Soil microbial communities were examined in a chronosequence of four different land-use treatments at the Konza Prairie Biological Station, Kansas. The time series comprised a conventionally tilled cropland (CTC) developed on former prairie soils, two restored grasslands that were initiated on former agricultural soils in 1998 (RG 98 ) and 1978 (RG 78 ), and an annually burned native tallgrass prairie (BNP), all on similar soil types. In addition, an unburned native tallgrass prairie (UNP) and another grassland restored in 2000 (RG 00 ) on a different soil type were studied to examine the effect of long-term fire exclusion vs. annual burning in native prairie and the influence of soil type on soil microbial communities in restored grasslands. Both 16S rRNA gene clone libraries and phospholipid fatty acid analyses indicated that the structure and composition of bacterial communities in the CTC soil were significantly different from those in prairie soils. Within the time series, soil physicochemical characteristics changed monotonically. However, changes in the microbial communities were not monotonic, and a transitional bacterial community formed during restoration that differed from communities in either the highly disturbed cropland or the undisturbed original prairie. The microbial communities of RG 98 and RG 00 grasslands were also significantly different even though they were restored at approximately the same time and were managed similarly; a result attributable to the differences in soil type and associated soil chemistry such as pH and Ca. Burning and seasonal effects on soil microbial communities were small. Similarly, changing plot size from 300 m 2 to 150 m 2 in area caused small differences in the estimates of microbial community structure. In conclusion, microbial community structure and biochemical properties of soil from the tallgrass prairie were strongly impacted by cultivation, and the microbial community was not fully restored even after 30 years.
Radio-frequency spectral response of two-dimensional Josephson-junction arrays.

The spectral response of rf-biased planar arrays of 300{times}300 Nb-Au-Nb proximity-effect junctions is reported over the frequency range 10--400 MHz in zero magnetic field. The response consists of narrow-bandwidth emissions at both harmonics and subharmonics of the rf bias frequency. In contrast to the harmonic signals, which vary smoothly with dc bias current, the subharmonic signals appear only when the array is biased on specific giant Shapiro steps.
Direct Numerical Simulations of Nucleate Boiling

Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) of multiphase flows, where all continuum length and time scales are fully resolved have progressed enormously in the last few years. Increases in computer power and new algorithms now make it possible to follow the unsteady motion of several hundred particles (drops, bubbles and solids) for long enough times so that meaningful averages for the fluid mixture can be calculated. However, most progress has so far been made for disperse flow of two-fluid systems. See Prosperetti and Tryggvason (2007) for a review.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
CO2 Phase and Amplitude Spectra Measured over 2 km Outdoor Path With a Dual-Comb Spectrometer

We present dispersive dual-comb spectroscopy of atmospheric CO 2 across a 2-km open-air path. By sending a single comb through the open-air path, both molecular phase spectrum and conventional absorbance spectrum are obtained. The measured phase spectra match expected molecular lineshape models.
Land cover classification in multispectral imagery using clustering of sparse approximations over learned feature dictionaries

We present results from an ongoing effort to extend neuromimetic machine vision algorithms to multispectral data using adaptive signal processing combined with compressive sensing and machine learning techniques. Our goal is to develop a robust classification methodology that will allow for automated discretization of the landscape into distinct units based on attributes such as vegetation, surface hydrological properties, and topographic/geomorphic characteristics. We use a Hebbian learning rule to build spectral-textural dictionaries that are tailored for classification. We learn our dictionaries from millions of overlapping multispectral image patches and then use a pursuit search to generate classification features. Land cover labels are automatically generated using unsupervised clustering of sparse approximations (CoSA). We demonstrate our method on multispectral WorldView-2 data from a coastal plain ecosystem in Barrow, Alaska. We explore learning from both raw multispectral imagery and normalized band difference indices. We explore a quantitative metric to evaluate the spectral properties of the clusters in order to potentially aid in assigning land cover categories to the cluster labels. Our results suggest CoSA is a promising approach to unsupervised land cover classification in high-resolution satellite imagery.
δ-aminolevulinic acid synthetase from the particulate fraction of liver of porphyric rats

Abstract 1. 1. δ-Aminolevulinic acid synthetase, the rate-limiting enzyme for haem biosynthesis, has been purified 11.2-fold in 26% yield from the particulate fraction of liver of porphyric rats. 2. 2. Enzymatic activity is stable indefinitely at −150° and can be stabilized during purification with 0.1 mM pyridoxal phosphate or in the presence of 0.2 M potassium phosphate (pH 7.4). 3. 3. The enzyme is inhibited 48% by 5·10 −5 M haemin. The inhibition is non-competitive with succinyl-CoA, but haemin is a mixed inhibitor with respect to glycine. 4. 4. Despite the observation that 58% of the enzymatic activity does not precipitate upon centrifugation at 140 000 × g for 2 h, studies with gel filtration, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and electronmicroscopy indicate that the enzymatic activity is contained in a large protein aggregate. The implications of this observation are discussed.
Development of thermoregulation in painted quail, Excalfactoria chinensis.

Abstract 1. 1. Poikilothermy in precocial painted quail hatchlings, Excalfactoria chinensis (hatchling weight = 3 g), was gradually replaced by homeothermy during 4 weeks of post-hatching growth (weight after fourth week = 25 g). 2. 2. This process was correlated with improvements in heat production and retention capacities. 3. 3. These were associated in turn with increases during growth in weight-specific metabolic responses to cold and with improving defenses against heat loss by evaporative and non-evaporative pathways. 4. 4. Subsequent growth to adulthood (adult weight = 25–40 g) required an additional 2 weeks and was marked by decreased metabolic responses to cold with growth, consequent upon improved insulation and lowered surface/volume ratio.
Root resorption--etiology, terminology and clinical manifestations.

Abstract This paper is an attempt to summarize our knowledge on root resorption from the point of view of clinical relevance and to present a revised terminological system that corresponds to our present understanding of the resorptive processes in teeth. It appears practical to keep the terms inflammatory resorption and replacement resorption. Inflammatory resorption occurs when the predentin or precementum becomes mineralized or, in case of the precementum, is mechanically damaged or scraped off. It is seen on the wall of the root canal (internal resorption) and on the external surface of the root (external resorption or cervical resorption) and it may be transient or progressive. Inflammatory resorption becomes progressive when, in addition to a denuded area of an internal or external root surface, there is additional long–lasting stimulation of the resorbing cells, like sharp edges, increased pressure in the tissue, infection, or certain systemic diseases. Replacement resorption is seen in ankyloscd teeth that have become incorporated in bone. It is not a result of a disease process, but occurs as a “mistake” because the cells involved in the remodeling of bone are not able to distinguish between the dental tissues and bone. Whereas progressive inflammatory resorption today can be treated with a high rate of success, replacement resorption still remains beyond our clincial competence.
The billy goats gruff: a fairy tail for the third anniversary of the 1996 telecommunications act

Chronicles a series of errors in the Telecommunications Act by using a “fairy tale” scenario to aid in explanation of this US 1996 procedure. Addresses local market jurisdiction and dual cost standards. Concludes many of the Act’s goals remain largely unfulfilled as local exchange customers will not see the benefits the Act was hoped to deliver, until technology allows better delivery.
Monomicrobial Pseudomonas necrotizing fasciitis: A case of infection by two strains and a review of 37 cases in the literature

Necrotizing fasciitis due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa is rare. We report a case of monomicrobial Pseudomonas necrotizing fasciitis and review 37 cases in the literature. The mortality rate was 30%, and most infections occurred in the immunocompromised. Clinicians should consider empiric pseudomonal antibiotic coverage in the severely immunocompromised with potentially necrotizing infections.
Colour image segmentation by clustering

A new clustering technique is described for segmenting the colour images of natural scenes. The proposed method detects image clusters in some linear decision volumes of the (L*, a*, b*) uniform colour space. The detected clusters are projected onto the line of the Fisher discriminant for 1-D thresholding. This permits the use of all the property values of colour clusters and, in turn, produces better segmentation results than the colour component thresholding schemes. The method is also faster than the existing colour clustering techniques because clusters are specified in linear decision volumes using only 1-D histograms.
Nonsubmerged ITI solid-screw implants can be used to support mandibular removable prostheses in the medium term

Abstract Original article Behneke A, Behneke N, d'Hoedt B. A 5-year longitudinal study of the clinical effectiveness of ITI solid-screw implants in the treatment of mandibular edentulism. Int J Oral Maxillofac Implants 2002;17:799-810. Level of evidence 2c Purpose To determine the prospective medium-term (5 years) clinical effectiveness of nonsubmerged ITI solid-screw plasma-sprayed dental implants for rehabilitation of the edentulous mandible Source of funding Information not Available Type of study/design Prospective cohort study
Studies of chondrogenesis in rotating systems

A great deal of energy has been exerted over the years researching methods for regenerating and repairing bone and cartilage. Several techniques, especially bone implants and grafts, show great promise for providing a remedy for many skeletal disorders and chondrodystrophies. The bioreactor (rotating-wall vessel, RWV) is a cell culture system that creates a nurturing environment conducive to cell aggregation. Chondrocyte cultures have been studied as implants for repair and replacement of damaged and missing bone and cartilage since 1965 [Chesterman and Smith, J Bone Joint Surg 50B:184-197, 1965]. The ability to use large, tissue-like cartilage aggregates grown in the RWV would be of great clinical significance in treating skeletal disorders. In addition, the RWV may provide a superior method for studying chondrogenesis and chondrogenic mutations. Because the RWV is also reported to simulate many of the conditions of microgravity it is a very useful ground-based tool for studying how cell systems will react to microgravity.
Process-induced skew reduction in nominal zero-skew clock trees

This work develops an analytic framework for clock tree analysis considering process variations that is shown to correspond well with Monte Carlo results. The analysis framework is used in a new algorithm that constructs deterministic nominal zero-skew clock trees that have reduced sensitivity to process variation. The new algorithm uses a sampling approach to perform route embedding during a bottom-up merging phase, but does not select the best embedding until the top-down phase. This results in clock trees that exhibit a mean skew reduction of 32.4% on average and a standard deviation reduction of 40.7% as verified by Monte Carlo. The average increase in total clock tree capacitance is less than 0.02%.
Resonant switches - Topologies and characteristics

In designing conventional switching converters, the effort to increase operating frequency in order to reduce weight, size and cost of magnetic and filter elements is constantly hampered by higher switching stresses and switching losses. To overcome these obstacles, the concept of resonant switch was proposed. By incorporating additional Land C elements to shape device current and voltage waveforms, the desired zero-current switching property can be realized which enables converters to operate in the megahertz range.
Language production in Parkinson's disease: Acoustic and linguistic considerations

The hypokinetic dysarthria of Parkinson's disease (PD) has been described extensively. In contrast, patterns of hesitation and the language structure in spontaneous speech of the PD patient have not been investigated, although several studies have shown language-related abnormalities in word naming, word generation, and verbal recall. In the present study, 10 male Parkinson's patients and 10 normal male speakers were compared in a reading and spontaneous speaking paradigm for acoustic and linguistic features. Among acoustic measures, fundamental frequency and relative intensity differentiated PD from control subjects, consistent with reported features of hypokinetic dysarthria. The striking observations among linguistic measures differentiating PD from control subjects were an increase in the number of (a) silent hesitations per minute, (b) abnormally long silent hesitations, (c) words per silent hesitation, (d) open class phrases, and (e) optional open phrases per speech sample, and a decrease in the number of modalizations and interjections. An increase in the number of filled hesitations occurring per minute, as well as a decrease in syntactic complexity separated moderate from mild Parkinson's patients. Our interpretation of the data favors the hypothesis that changes in the structure of spontaneous language production with increasing severity of dysarthria reflect PD patients' adaptation to their disease.
The Sclerochronology of Hard Clams,Mercenariaspp., from the South-Eastern U.S.A.: A Method of Elucidating the Zooarchaeological Records of Seasonal Resource Procurement and Seasonality in Prehistoric Shell Middens

Abstract One of the most fundamental and complex issues facing coastal archaeologists is determining whether people were seasonal or year-round residents of the coastal realm. This question can be addressed through sclerochronological analysis of the skeletons of aquatic organisms. A method of characterizing the temporal pattern of annual growth increment formation in hard clam (Mercenariaspp.) shells is presented in this paper. Year-long collections of four hard clam populations at monthly intervals from Kings Bay, GA (N=451), Indian River, FL (N=1100), Cedar Key (Suwannee Reef), FL (N=259), and Charlotte Harbor, FL (N=399) were used to characterize seasonal patterns of shell growth, which in turn were used to assess the season of procurement in 52 zooarchaeological samples (N=4591) from the south-eastern Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. The zooarchaeological analysis shows that year-round occupation of the coast was a traditional way of life for at least 4000 years.
Abnormalities of bladder innervation in diabetes mellitus

Electrophysiologic evaluation of the neural pathways involved in bladder and urethral function is described in 30 patients with diabetes mellitus. The study showed decreased conduction velocities in patients with the detrusor reflex as well as in detrusor areflexia. The findings indicated that diabetic vesical dysfunction is principally the result of segmental demyelination in the peripheral nerve supply to the detrusor muscle and urethra.
Decline in serum calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus values with oral glucose in normal neonates: studies of serum parathyroid hormone and calcitonin

In 10 normal term infants aged 52 +/- 2.5 hours, serum calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, ionized calcium, parathyroid hormone, and calcitonin were studied at 0, 1/2, 1, and 2 hours after administration of 1.77 +/- 0.08 gm/kg glucose orally over 20 minutes. In response to glucose administration, serum glucose concentration rose and serum P, Ca, and Mg concentrations fell. Serum PTH concentration rose significantly, and blood ionized Ca and pH were unaltered. Serum calcitonin was elevated, as compared with adult values, and did not change. We suggest that in neonates, as in adults, oral ingestion of glucose lowers serum Ca, Mg, and P, and a compensatory rise in serum PTH concentration maintains blood ionized Ca concentration.
On the zeros and poles of Padé approximants toez

In this paper, we study the location of the zeros and poles of general Pade approximats toe z. The location of these zeros and poles is useful in the analysis of stability for related numerical methods for solving systems of ordinary differential equations.
The effect of methods of preparation on the performance of cupric chloride-impregnated sorbents for the removal of mercury from flue gases

Cupric chloride-impregnated carbon sorbents (CuCl2-ACs) showed comparable performance in elemental mercury (Hg0) oxidation and adsorption to a brominated activated carbon sorbent (Darco Hg-LH) in our previously reported experimental studies using fixed-bed and entrained-flow systems. This study tested several CuCl2-ACs prepared in different solvents to investigate the effects of solvents on the Hg0 removal capability of CuCl2-ACs and find the most efficient and economical method of sorbent preparation. The performance of CuCl2-ACs prepared in different solvents was also examined with respect to surface tension and pH of solvents. As a result, the sorbents prepared in isopropyl alcohol and acetone showed the best performance in these tests, but low surface tension and pH of isopropyl alcohol and acetone were not found to be critical factors.