cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chapter 12 The relation between ozone, NOx and hydrocarbons in urban and polluted rural environments

Abstract Research over the past ten years has created a more detailed and coherent view of the relation between O 3 and its major anthropogenic precursors, volatile organic compounds (VOC) and oxides of nitrogen (NO x ). This article presents a review of insights derived from photochemical models and field measurements. The ozone-precursor relationship can be understood in terms of a fundamental split into a NO x -sensitive and VOC-sensitive (or NO x -saturated) chemical regimes. These regimes are associated with the chemistry of odd hydrogen radicals and appear in different forms in studies of urbanized regions, power plant plumes and the remote troposphere. Factors that affect the split into NO x -sensitive and VOC-sensitive chemistry include: VOC/NO x ratios, VOC reactivity, biogenic hydrocarbons, photochemical aging, and rates of meteorological dispersion. Analyses of ozone-NO x -VOC sensitivity from 3D photochemical models show a consistent pattern, but predictions for the impact of reduced NO x and VOC in indivdual locations are often very uncertain. This uncertainty can be identified by comparing predictions from different model scenarios that reflect uncertainties in meteorology, anthropogenic and biogenic emissions. Several observation-based approaches have been proposed that seek to evaluate ozone-NO x -VOC sensitivity directly from ambient measurements (including ambient VOC, reactive nitrogen, and peroxides). Observation-based approaches have also been used to evaluate emission rates, ozone production efficiency, and removal rates of chemically active species. Use of these methods in combination with models can significantly reduce the uncertainty associated with model predictions.
A Theory of Grain Clustering in Turbulence: The Origin and Nature of Large Density Fluctuations

We propose a theory for the density fluctuations of aerodynamic grains embedded in a turbulent, gravitating gas disk. The theory combines calculations for the average behavior of grains encountering a single turbulent eddy, with a hierarchical description of the eddy velocity statistics. We show that this makes analytic predictions for a wide range of quantities, including: the distribution of volume-average grain densities, the power spectrum and correlation functions of grain density fluctuations, and the maximum volume density of grains reached. For each, we predict how these scale as a function of grain stopping/friction time (t_stop), spatial scale, grain-to-gas mass ratio, strength of the turbulence (alpha), and detailed disk properties (orbital frequency, sound speed). We test these against numerical simulations and find good agreement over a huge parameter space. Results from 'turbulent concentration' simulations and laboratory experiments are also predicted as a special case. We predict that vortices on a wide range of scales act to disperse and concentrate grains hierarchically (even if the gas is incompressible). For small grains this is most efficient in eddies with turnover time comparable to the stopping time. But for large grains, shear and gravity are important and lead to a broad range of eddy scales driving fluctuations, with most power on the largest scales. The grain density distribution is driven to a log-Poisson shape, with fluctuations for large grains up to >1000 times the mean density. We predict much smaller grains will also experience large fluctuations, but on small scales (not resolved in most simulations). We provide simple analytic expressions for the important predictions, and discuss implications for planetesimal formation, grain growth, and the structure of turbulence.
Aspirin can inhibit gastric mucosal cyclo-oxygenase without causing lesions in rat

Abstract Dose-response relationships between aspirin-induced cyclo-oxygenase inhibition and gastric mucosal injury were studied in rats. Oral or parenteral aspirin, 25 mg/kg, inhibited prostaglandin generation by 87%–95% at 1, 3, and 6 h with no lesion formation. Aspirin, 100 mg/kg, inhibited prostaglandin generation by 95%–98% at 1, 3, and 6 h, but lesions were observed only when aspirin was given orally. Three-hour pretreatment with intraperitoneal aspirin, 12.5 mg/kg, did not enhance the mucosal injury caused by 10 mM acidified taurocholate, although prostaglandin generation was inhibited by 80%. Pretreatment with 25 mg/kg aspirin inhibited prostaglandin generation by 89% and was associated with significant mucosal injury by acidified taurocholate. We conclude that aspirin-induced 95% inhibition of gastric mucosal cyclo-oxygenase is not, by itself, sufficient to produce lesions and inhibition by >80% is required to predispose the gastric mucosa to injury by otherwise mild irritants.
Dynamic granular locking approach to phantom protection in R-trees

Over the last decade (1988-98), the R tree has emerged as one of the most robust multidimensional access methods. However, before the R tree can be integrated as an access method to a commercial strength database management system, efficient techniques to provide transactional access to data via R trees need to be developed. Concurrent access to data through a multidimensional data structure introduces the problem of protecting ranges specified in the retrieval from phantom insertions and deletions (the phantom problem). Existing approaches to phantom protection in B trees (namely, key range locking) cannot be applied to multidimensional data structures since they rely on a total order over the key space on which the B tree is designed. The paper presents a dynamic granular locking approach to phantom protection in R trees. To the best of our knowledge, the paper provides the first solution to the phantom problem in multidimensional access methods based on granular locking.
Nutrient control for stationary phase cellulase production in Trichoderma reesei Rut C-30

This work describes the use of nutrient limitations with Trichoderma reesei Rut C-30 to obtain a prolonged stationary phase cellulase production. This period of non-growth may allow for dependable cellulase production, extended fermentation periods, and the possibility to use pellet morphology for easy product separation. Phosphorus limitation was successful in halting growth and had a corresponding specific cellulase production of 5±2 FPU/g-h. Combined with the addition of Triton X-100 for fungal pellet formation and low shear conditions, a stationary phase cellulase production period in excess of 300 h was achieved, with a constant enzyme production rate of 7±1 FPU/g-h. While nitrogen limitation was also effective as a growth limiter, it, however, also prevented cellulase production.
NASD Regulation of IPO Conflicts of Interest - Does Gatekeeping Work?

This Article contributes to the debate on the efficacy of third party gatekeeping in regulating the capital markets, by presenting empirical evidence of the efficacy of one kind of gatekeeper, a qualified independent underwriter (QIU). Under NASD rules, when an investment bank participating in a securities offering has one of several enumerated conflicts of interest, the securities cannot be sold at a price higher than that recommended by a QIU. Examining 1,188 IPOs from 1997 through 2000 discloses a negative, statistically significant relationship between IPO initial returns and each of (i) the fact that participating NASD members (or their affiliates) are receiving more than 10% of the IPO proceeds and (ii) the fact that a participating NASD member (or its affiliates) owns at least 10% of the issuer's preferred stock or subordinated debt. On the other hand, there is a positive, statistically insignificant relationship between IPO initial return and the fact that a participating NASD member (or its affiliates) beneficially owns at least 10% of the issuer's common stock. For purposes of assessing the impact of potential endogenity, the ATT on initial IPO return using propensity score matching for each of these three types of conflicts requiring QIUs was estimated, producing similar results. These results are not consistent with the certification hypothesis of preexisting investment bank/issuer relationships. The conflict involving greatest certification (common stock ownership) is associated with more, not less, underpricing. The results also indicate proposals to subject all IPO pricing to approval by independent broker-dealers - on which the NASD solicited comments - are likely to be ineffectual. Now forthcoming, Tulane Law Review (2005). The accepted paper version of this abstract can be accessed using the following URL: http://ssrn.com/abstract=596102
«Quand je suis lá, elle n'y est pas»: Sobre el razonamiento en negro y la inquietud del colapso en la filosofía y las ciencias humanas

After offering a critique of what the author calls “the theodicy of the text”, where practicesare applied to the reading of canonical philosophers as one would to a deity or sacred text,this article then explores problems of justification in philosophy in relation to the expandedreach of instrumental rationality by virtue of scientific hegemony in modern thought. The critique of this expanded and colonizing scope is threatened, however, by a challenge to theory itself, and by that virtue, philosophy, in the adage of the critic and poet Audre Lorde, that masters’ tools lack the capacity to dismantle their houses. Must theory and reason be antithetical to the aims of emancipatory projects? The rest of the essay answers in the negative through differentiating reason from rationality and exploring the metacritical practices of the former and the disciplinary limitations of the latter manifested as what the author calls “disciplinary decadence” and a “teleological suspension”of philosophy.
Stabilization to 32P decay and onset of DNA replication of T4 bacteriophage.

The genetic loci of T4 bacteriophage become susceptible to mutagenesis by the thymidine analog 5-bromodeoxyuridine a few minutes after the start of intracellular phage growth. This susceptibility presumably signals the onset of phage DNA replication. In order to examine whether the stabilization to decay inactivation which develops at the onset of growth of highly 32 P-labeled T4 phages derives from the appearance of replicas of the infecting viral DNA, the time course of susceptibility to mutagenesis and sensitivity to decay inactivation has been followed in one and the same population of T4-infected bacteria. The results of these experiments are: 1. Both the r II and the q loci of T4 become susceptible to 5-bromodeoxyuridineinduced mutagenesis between the 5th and the 6th min after the start of phage growth. Since these two loci are separated by approximately half of the known genetic map of T4, it appears that different parts of the phage genome begin their replication at very nearly the same time. 2. The infective centers develop more than half their ultimate stability to 32 P decay inactivation before the onset of susceptibility to mutagenesis, i.e. of DNA synthesis. Stabilization to decay inactivation cannot, therefore, result from the appearance of replicas of the infecting phage DNA. 3. If synthesis of protein is blocked by the presence of the antibiotic chloramphenicol from the very outset of phage growth, the development of both susceptibility to mutagenesis and stabilization to 32 P decay is prevented. If, however, chloramphenicol is only added 3 min after the start of phage growth, the infective centors can attain an appreciable stabilization to 32 P decay while the susceptibility to mutagenesis is still held in abeyance. This demonstrates once more that stabilization precedes DNA replication and cannot, therefore, be the consequence of the appearance of vegetative copies of the infecting phage DNA.
A Forecast and Analyzed Cyclogenesis Event Diagnosed with Potential vorticity

Abstract A cyclone that developed over the eastern United States during December 1992 is investigated using a potential vorticity (PV) framework. Upon partitioning the perturbation PV field (which includes the near-surface potential temperature distribution) into upper-level (UL), low-level (LL), and lower boundary (LB) components, the extent to which particular PV anomalies contribute to the cyclone development is quantified by inverting the PV distribution associated with each component. In addition, the accuracy of a 48–84-h forecast, produced by the CCM2 version of NCAR's Community Climate Model, is assessed. The assessment primarily concerns the 36-h geopotential height tendencies forced at 850 mb by the individual components of the analyzed and forecast PV tendency fields. It is found that the lower boundary (923 mb) thermal wave accompanying the storm is amplified mostly by the winds associated with an upper-level disturbance and that latent heating plays an important, but secondary, role in near-s...
Editorial [Special issue on 2013 International Microwave Symposium]

The 43 papers in this special issue were originally presented at the 2013 International Microwave Symposium (IMS), held on June 2-7, 2013, in Seattle, WA, USA.
PREFERENCE FOR PHOTOGRAPHS AND PERSONALITY TRAITS

Summary.-89 college students completed the 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire and made ratings of preference on 23 selected slides of photographs. Factor analysis of students' ratings of preference indicated factors corresponding to photograph themes of aggression, form, and innocence/children. Four of six hypothesized relationships between 16 Personality Factor source traits and preferences for the theme of a photograph were found. To some degree, persons prefer photographs whose themes are congruent with or express their personality traits. It appears that persons often prefer artistic productions which express or complement their personality characteristics. This notion has been supported for several types of personality dimensions including temperament, traits, values, and abilities, across several art media including designs (4, 5), paintings (5, 6, 7, lo), music (2, 9), and sculpture (8). This study explored aesthetic preference in the medium of photography by studying relationships between preference for photographs and personality traits, as assessed by the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire ( 3 ) .
Personality Traits of White-Collar Telecommuters: Perceptions of Graduating Business Students

Abstract In this study, we examined perceptions of university business students entering the workforce in the new millennium. Because these students represent the new workforce, we investigated their interest in white-collar telecommuting, perceptions of desirable personality traits for white-collar telecommuters, and intended industries of employment after graduation. Our results indicate that this group expected white-collar telecommuters to be highly independent, honest, dependable, and resourceful, and to possess initiative and admirable ethical behaviors. These expectations suggest the importance of proper preparation by business and information systems educators, who must stay abreast of the issues and demands of white-collar telecommuting.
Phytosterol Metabolism and Absorption in the Generalist Grasshopper, Schistocerca americana (Orthoptera: Acrididae)

A series of experiments, using GLC, RP-HPLC, and GC-MS techniques, were performed to examine the metabolic fate and absorption of different dietary sterols in the grasshopper Schistocerca americana. In the first experiment, grasshoppers were reared on diets containing different sterols presented singly. Cholesterol was the dominant tissue sterol recovered from cholesterol and isoybean sitosteroli fed grasshoppers but among the grasshoppers fed diets with stigmasterol and spinach sterols (both unsuitable for growth and development), the amount of cholesterol recovered was not different from that of newly hatched grasshoppers. In the second experiment, grasshoppers were given diets containing mixtures of soybean sitosterol and stigmasterol and the metabolic fate of these dietary sterols was recorded. Results from this experiment suggest that the presence of an unsuitable dietary sterol does not interfere with cholesterol production from sitosterol. They also demonstrate that large quantities of unmetabolized dietary sterols with C-24 ethyl groups are recovered from grasshoppers fed diets containing stigmasterol. Finally, tissue sterol profiles of grasshoppers with and without their midguts were compared. Results suggest that the midgut is the major tissue where unmetabolized dietary sterols accumulate. How these sterol metabolic constraints impact development and survival is discussed as well as the impact they might have on grasshopper feeding behavior. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 42:13n25, 1999. ' 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Circulating transcriptome reveals markers of atherosclerosis

Circulating monocytes mediate inflammation in atherosclerosis and may serve as easily accessible reporters of disease. To search for markers of atherosclerosis, we compared the in vivo transcriptomes of monocytes purified from patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy and normal subjects by using the serial analysis of gene expression technique. We selected a subset of differentially expressed monocyte-specific genes and confirmed their expression levels. The Finkel–Biskis–Jinkins osteosarcoma (FOS) gene was significantly increased in patients, and the highest levels of FOS associated with patients who had previously undergone coronary revascularization. The correlation between coronary revascularization and FOS was higher than that compared with the cardiac risk marker high sensitivity C-reactive protein. In vitro inhibition of FOS using small interfering RNA and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl CoA reductase inhibitor simvastatin (statin) affected monocyte activation and suggested an important role in pathogenesis. Given the prominent role of FOS in inflammation and calcification, its association with atherosclerosis severity has clear pathophysiologic bases as well as clinical implications as a marker. Our results suggest that analysis of gene expression in circulating cells may provide biological and clinical insights into human atherosclerosis, and that this type of approach may be applicable for studying other types of diseases.
Investigation of turbidity caused by starch-titania systems

Abstract Immobilized amylase is capable of destabilizing aqueous starch-titania suspensions. Experiments with labelled starch indicate a lifetime for adsorbed starch on the order of minutes. Starch-titania adsorption isotherms imply that a starch fraction effectively bridges between titania particles. Treatment with recycled titania may be a practical method of turbidity removal in this system.
On the use of polynomials for the thermodynamics of dilute metallic solutions

Abstract The present contribution analyzes the implications of replacing the infinite Taylor's series expansion of a thermodynamic function by a polynomial. It indicates when the coefficients defined at infinite dilution may be used as parameters at finite dilution and when the formalism is abused. The use of the second order free energy interaction coefficient ρ is emphasized, as it is felt to be warranted by a large body of experimental data. Stability conditions are considered, either to provide upper and lower bounds for the interaction parameters, or to predict the appearance of a new phase. Finally, possible interpolations are presented which should be helpful in correlating experimental information; they are illustrated by the case of iron-carbon alloys where it is shown that the dependence of the solubility of carbon on the concentrations of the other solutes yields estimates of the ρc coefficients.
Multiple subpial transection for intractable partial seizures: Seizure outcome

We studied 21 patients who underwent multiple subpial transections (MST) for the surgical treatment of intractable partial-onset seizures in whom the epileptogenic focus overlapped with primary sensorimotor or language cortex All patients had intracranial EEG localization of seizures and functional mapping with electrical stimulation before surgery. Eighteen patients had cortical resections in addition to MST. At an average follow-up of 21 months, 13 patients either are seizure-free or are experiencing auras or simple partial seizures (SPS) only, 6 patients have had greater than 50% reduction in seizure frequency, 1 patient has had a modest reduction in seizures, and 1 patient is unchanged. MST in the 3 patients who did not undergo cortical resections reduced seizure frequency in all 3, although none are seizure-free. MST, combined with cortical resection, appears to be a safe and effective alternative to subtotal resection of the epileptogenic zone. MST alone, although not curative, reduced seizure frequency in all patients who underwent the procedure.
Learning about the ocean carbon cycle from observational constraints and model simulations of multiple tracers

A key question in studies of the potential for reducing uncertainty in climate change projections is how additional observations may be used to constrain models. We examine the case of ocean carbon cycle models. The reliability of ocean models in projecting oceanic CO2 uptake is fundamentally dependent on their skills in simulating ocean circulation and air–sea gas exchange. In this study we demonstrate how a model simulation of multiple tracers and utilization of a variety of observational data help us to obtain additional information about the parameterization of ocean circulation and air–sea gas exchange, relative to approaches that use only a single tracer. The benefit of using multiple tracers is based on the fact that individual tracer holds unique information with regard to ocean mixing, circulation, and air–sea gas exchange. In a previous modeling study, we have shown that the simulation of radiocarbon enables us to identify the importance of parameterizing sub-grid scale ocean mixing processes in terms of diffusive mixing along constant density surface (isopycnal mixing) and the inclusion of the effect of mesoscale eddies. In this study we show that the simulation of phosphate, a major macronutrient in the ocean, helps us to detect a weak isopycnal mixing in the upper ocean that does not show up in the radiocarbon simulation. We also show that the simulation of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) reveals excessive upwelling in the Southern Ocean, which is also not apparent in radiocarbon simulations. Furthermore, the updated ocean inventory data of man-made radiocarbon produced by nuclear tests (bomb 14C) enable us to recalibrate the rate of air–sea gas exchange. The progressive modifications made in the model based on the simulation of additional tracers and utilization of updated observational data overall improve the model’s ability to simulate ocean circulation and air–sea gas exchange, particularly in the Southern Ocean, and has great consequence for projected CO2 uptake. Simulated global ocean uptake of anthropogenic CO2 from pre-industrial time to the present day by both previous and updated models are within the range of observational-based estimates, but with substantial regional difference, especially in the Southern Ocean. By year 2100, the updated model estimated CO2 uptake are 531 and 133 PgC (1PgC = 1015 gram carbon) for the global and Southern Ocean respectively, whereas the previous version model estimated values are 540 and 190 PgC.
A mathematical model for cooperative diffusion

This model is a mathematical description of the interactive, or cooperative diffusions of boron and phosphorus in silicon. The cooperative diffusions are explained in terms of enhanced diffusion coefficients which are concentration dependent. By using these coefficients, the coupled non-linear diffusion equations are replaced by two non-linear uncoupled diffusion equations. The model explains the so-called emitter push effect found in phosphorus emitter/boron base devices. Results show excellent agreement with experimental profiles. Un modele decrit mathematiquement les diffusions interactives et cooperatives du bore et du phosphore dans le silicium; il explique les diffusions cooperatives en fonction des coefficients accrus de diffusion qui dependent de la concentration. En employant les dits coefficients, on remplace les equations nonlineaires et associees de diffusion par deux semblables, mais non associees. Le modele explique le soi-disant effet de poussee de l'emetteur qu'on rencontre dans des dispositifs formes d'un emetteur de phosphore et d'une base de bore. Les resultats concordent tres bien avec les profils experimentaux.
Company Profile: Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation

The role of nonprofit organizations in drug development has evolved from a primary emphasis on grant funding to a driving force that is advancing scientific development and leading cutting edge research. The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) is a leader in this field, and has recognized that despite recent advances, multiple myeloma patients' responses to today's treatments are variable and unpredictable, often based on the patient's molecular profile. The MMRF believes all patients would benefit from the creation of new, personalized treatment approaches and is working to make this vision a reality with its ambitious Personalized Medicine Initiative. Most recently, MMRF launched the CoMMpassSM (Relating Clinical Outcomes in Multiple Myeloma to Personal Assessment of Genetic Profile) study to collect and analyze tissue samples and genetic information from approximately 1000 multiple myeloma patients over the next 5 years. The study is designed to tailor next-generation personalized multiple myeloma treatments.
Association of Kidney Function with Mortality in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Not Yet on Dialysis: A Historical Prospective Cohort Study

Significant mortality occurs in populations with chronic kidney disease (CKD), but the relative contributions of lower glomerular filtration rate (GFR) itself, accompanying comorbidities, and the numerous abnormalities that develop with advancing CKD are poorly studied. We examined all-cause predialysis mortality in 861 United States veterans with CKD stage 3 to 5 not yet on dialysis. The association of GFR with mortality was analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier method, and the effects of several confounding variables on mortality were assessed in a Cox proportional-hazards model. Overall death rate was 102.1/1,000 person-years (95% CI: 90.2 to 115.6). Lower kidney function was associated with higher mortality (relative risk [95%CI] for GFR less than 20 v 41 to 60 mL/min/1.73m 2 : 2.56 [1.61 to 4.07], P 2 lower estimated GFR, the adjusted relative risk of mortality (95% CI) was 1.28 (1.12 to 1.45), P
Receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) protects against hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury in mice.

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury of the liver is a major complication of hemorrhagic shock, liver resection and transplantation (1) (2). It is widely accepted that there are two distinct phases in hepatic I/R injury. The first phase of injury occurs during the initial few hours after reperfusion and is related to the production of reactive oxygen species from Kupffer cells, leading to mild hepatocellular injury (3) (4). The late phase injury is initiated by inflammatory mediators released by activated Kupffer cells and hepatocytes. These mediators, including interleukin (IL)- 12/23, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and IL-1, induce the expression of CXC chemokines and adhesion molecules which recruit activated neutrophils from the liver microcirculation to the parenchyma (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10). These neutrophils then contribute to hepatocyte and vascular endothelial cell injury by releasing of oxidants and proteases (11) (4). The expression of inflammatory mediators contributing to this response is largely controlled by the transcription factor nuclear factor (NF)-κB. Based on a number of recent studies, it appears that the role of NF-κB in the hepatic response to I/R is cell-specific, such that NF-κB activation in Kupffer cells and endothelial cells promotes inflammatory gene expression, whereas activation in hepatocytes promotes cell survival (12–16). A recent study has suggested a connection between acute liver pathology and an NF-κB-associated receptor-ligand system (17). This system includes the receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK) (18) (19), its ligand, RANKL (18), and the decoy receptor for RANKL, osteoprotegerin (OPG) (20). Although the study focused on the roles of RANKL/OPG system in osteoporosis caused by liver transplantation, the data suggest that hepatic I/R may affect RANKL and OPG expression (17). Moreover another study has shown that RANKL/OPG system is involved in chronic liver diseases, such as primary biliary cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis C, and suggested that liver inflammation may induce RANKL and OPG expression (21). Since NF-κB activation is known to play pivotal roles in hepatic I/R injury and the interaction of RANK and RANKL appears to have a direct relationship with hepatic inflammation, we sought to determine the role of RANK/RANKL/OPG system in the hepatic pathophysiological response to I/R.
A longitudinal analysis of personality structure and adolescent substance use

Abstract Within the context of a prospective longitudinal research design, the structure of personality and initial levels of drug use were used to predict, multivariately, later drug use among male and female adolescents. The findings indicated that personality and belief measures of nonconventionality provide a significant increment in the prediction of later drug use beyond a level achieved by knowing initial usage rates. In addition, other personality and belief measures yield further increments in the prediction of subsequent drug use. Developmentally, the results revealed a differentiation of drug use patterns across the year's time, with one pattern primarily reflecting alcohol use, and a second pattern primarily reflecting use of marijuana and ‘hard’ drugs. While both patterns were related to measures of nonconventionality, certain personality features distinguished between them. Emergent use of marijuana and ‘hard’ drugs was related to depression, mistrust and attractiveness, while emergent alcohol use was related to generosity, ambition, agility and cheerfulness. These results were cross-validated in two samples of subjects. Implications of the findings for adolescent psychosocial development are discussed.
Specialized Protective Clothing Developed at the Savannah River Plant

Abstract The Savannah River Laboratory has improved the design of the following articles of protective clothing: plastic suits supplied with cooled air, air-supplied welder's hoods, cloth coveralls, laboratory coats, and shoe covers, plastic suits for rescue teams, and tear-away sleeves for work with moving machinery in areas where protective garments are required.
Gangliosides block the inhibition of macrophage Fc-dependent phagocytosis by lipopolysaccharide

Abstract The mechanism whereby bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exerts its biologic effects on mammalian cells is unknown. Plasma membrane gangliosides bind bacterial toxins and have been implicated in modulating the effects of a variety of immunoregulatory substances. We investigated the possibility that gangliosides can inhibit the effect of lipopolysaccharide on Fc-dependent phagocytosis by murine peritoneal macrophages. Protein-free lipopolysaccharide preparations significantly inhibited Fc-mediated phagocytosis (less than 71% of control) at concentrations of 100 ng/ml or greater after 90 min of incubation. The inhibitory effect of LPS (1 μg/ml) was blocked when macrophages were incubated with mono-, di-, or trisialogangliosides (25–50 μg/ ml). Neither asialoganglioside nor sialic acid alone were capable of blocking the effect of LPS. When chromatographed separately on a Sepharose 4B column, LPS and trisialoganglioside had different elution profiles. LPS and trisialoganglioside coeluted, however, when premixed at 37 °C for 60 min and then applied to the column. Therefore, abrogation of the effect of LPS on Fc-dependent phagocytosis may occur as a consequence of direct interaction between LPS and gangliosides. These data suggest that gangliosides may modulate the response of macrophages to bacterial lipopolysaccharide.
Echocardiographic Evidence of Pulmonary Hypertension is Associated with Increased 1-year Mortality in Patients Admitted with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is associated with decreased overall survival in patients with chronic lung disease. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of echocardiographic evidence of PH on 1-year survival in patients hospitalized with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This is a retrospective study of patients admitted to a respiratory intermediate care unit with COPD exacerbation between October 1, 2002 and September 30, 2004. All patients who had 2D echocardiograms and pulmonary function tests done within 12 months prior to hospital admission or during the admission were examined. Charts were reviewed for the following outcomes: length of hospital stay, need for mechanical ventilation, survival at discharge, and mortality over the next year. Data were analyzed using multiple logistic regression and p values calculated using Fisher’s exact test. Forty-three patients met study entry criteria, and PH, defined as systolic right ventricular pressure greater than 45 mmHg, was found in 23 (53%). Sixteen of the 23 patients (70%) with PH died during the 1-year follow-up period compared to 5 of 20 (25%) patients with no PH (p = 0.0058). The effect of PH on survival was independent of age, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), arterial pH, pCO2, or pO2 (p < 0.01). Echocardiographic evidence of PH is associated with increased 1-year mortality in patients admitted with COPD exacerbation. Further studies are needed to determine if PH is a cause of increased mortality in this population or an indicator of other cardiovascular disease.
GDNF reduces oxidative stress in a 6-hydroxydopamine model of Parkinson's disease

Many current theories of Parkinson's disease (PD) suggest that oxidative stress is involved in the neurodegenerative process. Potential neuroprotective agents could protect neurons through inherent antioxidant properties or through the upregulation of the brain's antioxidant defenses. Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) has been shown to protect and restore dopamine neurons in experimental models of PD and to improve motor function in human patients. This study was designed to investigate GDNF's effect on oxidative stress in a model of PD. GDNF or vehicle was injected into the right striatum of male Fischer-344 rats. Three days later 6-OHDA or saline was injected into the same striatum. The striatum and substantia nigra from both sides of the brain were removed 24h after 6-OHDA or saline injection and analyzed for the oxidative stress markers protein carbonyls and 4-hydroxynonenal. Both markers were significantly reduced in GDNF+6-OHDA treated animals compared to vehicle+6-OHDA treated animals. In addition, in animals allowed to recover for 3.5-4 weeks after the 6-OHDA administration, the GDNF led to significant protection against loss of striatal and nigral tissue levels of dopamine. These results suggest that the protective effects of GDNF against 6-OHDA involve a reduction in oxidative stress.
Regulation of the genes for proline utilization in Salmonella typhimurium: Autogenous repression by the putA gene product

Abstract Two genes are involved in the degradation of proline to glutamic acid. The putP gene encodes a proline permease; the putA gene encodes a bifunctional degradative enzyme. Although the two genes are transcribed independently, both genes are induced by exogenous proline and are subject to catabolite repression. The putA gene product appears to function also as an autogenous repressor protein acting on both the putA and putP transcription units. Regulatory mutations map throughout the putA gene; these are correctable by an episomal putA + gene, which acts in trans to restore repression.
Accelerated progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in Eμ-TCL1 mice expressing catalytically inactive RAG1.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a prevalent B-cell neoplasia that is often preceded by a more benign monoclonal CD5+ B-cell lymphocytosis. We previously generated transgenic mice expressing catalytically inactive RAG1 (dominant-negative recombination activating gene 1 [dnRAG1] mice) that develop an early-onset indolent CD5+ B-cell lymphocytosis attributed to a defect in secondary V(D)J rearrangements initiated to edit autoreactive B-cell receptor (BCR) specificity. Hypothesizing that CD5+ B cells in these animals represent potential CLL precursors, we crossed dnRAG1 mice with CLL-prone Eμ-TCL1 mice to determine whether dnRAG1 expression in Eμ-TCL1 mice accelerates CLL onset. Consistent with this hypothesis, CD5+ B-cell expansion and CLL progression occurred more rapidly in double-transgenic mice compared with Eμ-TCL1 mice. Nevertheless, CD5+ B cells in the 2 mouse strains exhibited close similarities in phenotype, immunoglobulin gene usage, and mutation status, and expression of genes associated with immune tolerance and BCR signaling. Gene expression profiling further revealed a potential role for prolactin signaling in regulating BCR editing. These results suggest a model in which benign accumulation of CD5+ B cells can be initiated through a failure to successfully edit autoreactive BCR specificity and may, in turn, progress to CLL upon introduction of additional genetic mutations.
Vasorelaxant effects of atriopeptins in human internal mammary artery.

Abstract The vasorelaxant effects of the atriopeptins, AP-(103–126) and AP-(103–123) were compared in human internal mammary artery (IMA) rings which had been contracted with norepinephrine. AP-(103–126) completely relaxed the IMA with an IC 50 within the physiologically relevant range (15 nM). However, relaxation with AP-(103–123) was greatly reduced compared to AP-(103–126), with complete relaxation observed in only half of the vessels tested and only at concentrations of 10–50 μM. These results indicate that the atriopeptin (AP) receptor in human arteries may be more similar to the AP receptor in rabbit rather than rat arteries.
Correlation of Acid Detergent Lignin and Klason Lignin with Digestibility of Forage Dry Matter and Neutral Detergent Fiber

The acid detergent lignin and Klason lignin methods were compared for their correlation with forage digestibility. Thirty-six forages, including C3 legumes and C3 and C4 grasses, were analyzed for sulfuric acid detergent lignin, Klason lignin, and in vitro digestibilities of dry matter (DM) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF). Twenty of these forages were also fed to lambs at restricted intake for measurement of DM and NDF digestibilities. Lignin concentrations determined by the two lignin methods were positively correlated, and the Klason lignin value was always greater than the acid detergent lignin concentration. The largest differences were observed for grass forages. Digestibilities of forage DM and NDF were negatively correlated with both lignin methods for the in vitro system and the lamb digestibility trials. The degree of correlation for the two lignin methods with digestibility was generally similar across all forages and within forage classes. Slopes of linear regressions of digestibility on lignin concentration did not differ between legumes and grasses. Although the sulfuric acid detergent lignin and Klason lignin procedures gave very different estimates of forage lignin concentration, they were similarly correlated with digestibility and should yield predictions of forage digestibility that have similar accuracy.
A silicon-based two-dimensional chalcogenide: growth of Si₂Te₃ nanoribbons and nanoplates

We report the synthesis of high-quality single-crystal two-dimensional, layered nanostructures of silicon telluride, Si2Te3, in multiple morphologies controlled by substrate temperature and Te seeding. Morphologies include nanoribbons formed by VLS growth from Te droplets, vertical hexagonal nanoplates through vapor–solid crystallographically oriented growth on amorphous oxide substrates, and flat hexagonal nanoplates formed through large-area VLS growth in liquid Te pools. We show the potential for doping through the choice of substrate and growth conditions. Vertical nanoplates grown on sapphire substrates, for example, can incorporate a uniform density of Al atoms from the substrate. We also show that the material may be modified after synthesis, including both mechanical exfoliation (reducing the thickness to as few as five layers) and intercalation of metal ions including Li+ and Mg2+, which suggests applications in energy storage materials. The material exhibits an intense red color corresponding to...
Exploring the use of crowdsourcing to support empirical studies in software engineering

The power and the generality of the findings obtained through empirical studies are bounded by the number and type of participating subjects. In software engineering, obtaining a large number of adequate subjects to evaluate a technique or tool is often a major challenge. In this work we explore the use of crowdsourcing as a mechanism to address that challenge by assisting in subject recruitment. More specifically, through this work we show how we adapted a study to be performed under an infrastructure that not only makes it possible to reach a large base of users but it also provides capabilities to manage those users as the study is being conducted. We discuss the lessons we learned through this experience, which illustrate the potential and tradeoffs of crowdsourcing software engineering studies.
Capsaicin induces NKCC1 internalization and inhibits chloride secretion in colonic epithelial cells independently of TRPV1

Colonic chloride secretion is regulated via the neurohormonal and immune systems. Exogenous chemicals (e.g., butyrate, propionate) can affect chloride secretion. Capsaicin, the pungent ingredient o...
Intensity and precision of circadian wheel running in three outbred rat strains

The laboratory rat is widely used in many areas of neurobiologic and behavioral research. However, studies of circadian activity rhythms have usually employed other rodent species whose activity patterns are more amenable to measurement in the circadian paradigm. Nevertheless, the rat may be the optimal choice in certain investigations of circadian function because of the wealth of data on the neuroanatomy and neuropharmacology of this species. This study was undertaken to determine whether choice of rat strain could affect the quality of measured circadian activity data. Intensity of wheel running (wheel revolutions per day), precision of onset, and longevity of consistently interpretable running records were assessed in three common outbred rat stains, Long-Evans, Wistar, and Sprague-Dawley. Long-Evans rats showed greater intensity of wheel running while entrained and at four and eight weeks of free running in constant darkness. There was no difference in precision of running onset among the three strains. Thus, use of the Long-Evans strain, with its greater intensity of wheel running and similar precision of activity onset, may confer advantages in studies involving measurement of circadian activity rhythms in the rat.
Deferral out of the emergency department: The wrong solution?

Abstract [Shapiro MJ, O'Brien GM. Deferral out of the emergency department: the wrong solution? Ann Emerg Med. July 2000;36:71-72.]
Patterns of neural activity associated with differential acute locomotor stimulation to cocaine and methamphetamine in adolescent versus adult male C57BL/6J mice.

Abstract Adolescence is a time period when major changes occur in the brain with long-term consequences for behavior. One ramification is altered responses to drugs of abuse, but the specific brain mechanisms and implications for mental health are poorly understood. Here, we used a mouse model in which adolescents display dramatically reduced sensitivity to the acute locomotor stimulating effects of cocaine and methamphetamine. The goal was to identify key brain regions or circuits involved in the differential behavior. Male adolescent (postnatal day (PN), 30–35) and young adult (PN, 69–74) C57BL/6J mice were administered an i.p. injection of cocaine (0, 15, 30 mg/kg) or methamphetamine (0, 2, 4 mg/kg) and euthanized 90 min later. Locomotor activity was monitored continuously in the home cage by video tracking. Immunohistochemical detection of Fos protein was used to quantify neuronal activation in 16 different brain regions. As expected, adolescents were less sensitive to the locomotor stimulating effects of cocaine and methamphetamine as indicated by a rightward shift in the dose response relationship. After a saline injection, adolescents showed similar levels of Fos as adults in all regions except the dorsal caudate (CPuD) and lateral caudate (CPuL) where levels were lower in adolescents. Cocaine and methamphetamine dose dependently increased Fos in all brain regions sampled in both adolescents and adults, but Fos levels were similar in both age groups for a majority of regions and doses. Locomotor activity was correlated with Fos in several brain areas within adolescent and adult groups, and adolescents had a significantly greater induction of Fos for a given amount of locomotor activity in key brain regions including the caudate where they showed reduced Fos under baseline conditions. Future research will identify the molecular and cellular events that are responsible for the differential psychostimulant-induced patterns of brain activation and behavior observed in adolescent versus adult mice.
Selective Mutism in Early Childhood: Assessment and Treatment of an African American Preschool Boy

Selective mutism (SM) is a relatively uncommon disorder in childhood, occurring in only 0.3 to 1.8 children per thousand. In early childhood, diagnosing SM can be particularly challenging, and the condition often goes unrecognized until the school years. Given the potential comorbidity of anxiety and communication deficits, treatment can be challenging and attendance in early childhood educational programs allows intervention in a contextually sensitive way that may also help address comorbidities and promote generalization. Thus, this case study of an African American preschool boy highlights the unique obstacles and opportunities of assessment and treatment in a preschool setting. Furthermore, we describe a three-step behavioral approach to addressing SM in collaboration with educators over a 3-month period. Substantive research indicates that early intervention with SM is associated with decreased likelihood of developing an anxiety-related disorder later in childhood; therefore, tailored assessment an...
‘Shaking the Conceptual Foundations,’ Too: Integrating Research and Technology Support for the Next Generation of Information Service

Basic approaches to reference service have not altered in recent decades despite dramatic changes in user needs, customer service technologies, and transformations in other areas of the library. Rather than add more layers of experimental services that deplete resources and increase complexity, information service should be reconceived to include new partners in support of the use of technology while undertaking substantially new approaches to on-site and network-based information service. By reengineering organizations in ways that bring librarians and technologists together within a common service environment, information service agencies can more effectively meet our users’ needs by moving more fully and flexibly into the network as changing circumstances warrant.