cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Singlet and Triplet Excited States of Emissive Conjugated (Bis)porphyrin Compounds Probed by Optical and EPR Spectroscopic Methods

The nature of the singlet and triplet excited states of a series of meso-to-meso ethyne-linked bis(porphyrin) compounds was probed by electronic absorption, polarized pump−probe fluorescence, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), electroabsorption (Stark), and transient triplet−triplet absorption spectroscopic methods. Pump−probe fluorescence anisotropy experiments show that the presence of meso-ethynyl substituents drives a reorientation of orthogonal x- and y-polarized singlet excited states in the macrocycle frame of reference with respect to that evinced for conventional free-base porphyrin chromophores. Analogous experiments in conjugated bis(porphyrin) species bis[(5,5‘,-10,20-bis[3‘ ‘,5‘ ‘-(di-tert -butyl)phenyl]porphinato)zinc(II)]ethyne, 5-[10,20-bis[3‘ ‘,5‘ ‘-(di-tert-butyl)phenyl]porphinato)zinc(II)]-5‘-[10‘,20‘-bis[3‘ ‘,5‘ ‘-(di-tert-butyl)phenyl]porphyryl]ethyne, and bis[5,5‘,-10,20-bis[3‘ ‘,5‘ ‘-(di-tert-butyl)phenyl]porphyryl]ethyne demonstrate substantial energetic splittings of the x- an...
Qualitative analysis of the overhand throw by undergraduates in education using a distance learning computer program.

The purpose was to (a) examine whether computer-based distance learning could enhance the qualitative analysis skills (error detection in the overhand throw) of undergraduates in education and (b) examine the effectiveness of several methods of information presentation (video file and text) on distance learning. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups, to detect errors in an incorrect throwing motion of a model on the computer screen. Group 1 (n = 13) was the control; Group 2 (n = 13) viewed a video of the appropriate throwing mechanics; Group 3 (n = 13) viewed text information describing the appropriate mechanics of the overhand throw; and Group 4 (n = 16) received a combination of video and text information. On Day 1 participants took a pretest. Treatment and testing occurred on Days 2 through 8. Then 5 days later participants took a retention test. One-way analysis of variance confirmed no significant differences between groups at Pretest (Day 1). An analysis of variance with repeated meas...
Ozone Toxicity During Ontogeny of Two Species of Flour Beetles, Tribolium confusum and T. castaneum

Studies of 2 species of flour beetles, Tribolium confusum (du Val) and T. castaneum (Herbst), were conducted to determine the toxicity of ozone given at specific life cycle stages. Toxicity was measured in terms of adult survival one mo posteclosion. Results indicated that the younger larval and pupal stages of T. castaneum were more ozone sensitive than similar older stages; 28-d-old pupae were the most ozone resistant of the stages tested. For a given stage, the younger forms of T. confusum were more ozone sensitive than older ones. Ozone resistance of T. confusum progressively increased with age, except the resistance of 20-d-old larvae was comparable to that of adults: In general, all stages of T. castaneum were more ozone sensitive than those of T. confusum ; however, for both species the l5-d-old larvae were equally sensitive at each exposure, as were the 28 d pupal stages. The hours of ozone exposure for 100% lethality of 15-, 20-, 23-, 28-d-old forms and adults ( T. confusum : T. castaneum ) were 3½:3½; 6½:5½; 5½:3½; 6:6; and 6½:5, respectively.
Amino acid activating enzymes and pyrophosphatase in frog and tadpole liver

Amino acid activating enzymes were studied in the soluble fraction, in the isolated nuclei, and in a particulate fraction of frog and tadpole liversusing the ATP-[32P]PPi exchange method. The soluble fraction was found to possess the highest specific activity. Lysine, leucine, and valine activating enzymes were the most active in both the frog and tadpole liver supernatant fraction. A glutamic acid activating enzyme was found to be present in the soluble fraction which had a pH optimum of 5.2. Mg2+ and to a greater extent Mg2+ together with ATP were found to increase the heat stability of certain of the amino acid activating enzymes. Certain amino acid activating enzymes were studied in both the soluble and the particulate fraction during thyroxine-induced metamorphosis. No change in activity during metamorphosis was observed. Pyrophosphatase in frog liver supenatant fraction was found to be 2 to 2.5 times higher than in tadpole liver supernatant fraction.
Interactive graphical queries for bibliographic search

This article presents Islands, an interactive graphical interface for construction, modification, and management of queries during a search session on a bibliographic database. The Islands interface is compared to the Dialog Interface on a search of the INSPEC database.
Separation of [18F]fluoride from [18O]water using anion exchange resin

The separation of no carrier added [18F]fluoride from 18O enriched water is described. The [18F]fluoride is deposited on Dowex 1 x 10 anion exchange resin as the water is passed through. The 18F is removed by elution with a dilute solution of cesium carbonate or potassium carbonate in water. Recovery of the 18F is greater than 95% efficient with a loss of 18O water of less than 5 microL from a volume of 3 mL.
The 1.85 A structure of an 8R-lipoxygenase suggests a general model for lipoxygenase product specificity.

Lipoxygenases (LOX) play pivotal roles in the biosynthesis of leukotrienes and other biologically active eicosanoids derived from arachidonic acid. A mechanistic understanding of substrate recognition, when lipoxygenases that recognize the same substrate generate different products, can be used to help guide the design of enzyme-specific inhibitors. We report here the 1.85 A resolution structure of an 8R-lipoxygenase from Plexaura homomalla, an enzyme with a sequence ∼40% identical to that of human 5-LOX. The structure reveals a U-shaped channel, defined by invariant amino acids, that would allow substrate access to the catalytic iron. We demonstrate that mutations within the channel significantly impact enzyme activity and propose a novel model for substrate binding potentially applicable to other members of this enzyme family.
Specific Isotopic Labeling and Photooxidation-linked Structural Changes in the Manganese-stabilizing Subunit of Photosystem II

Abstract Photosystem II (PSII) oxidizes water to molecular oxygen; the catalytic site is a cluster of four manganese ions. The catalytic site undergoes four sequential light-driven oxidation steps to form oxygen; these sequentially oxidized states are referred to as the Sn states, where n refers to the number of oxidizing equivalents stored. The extrinsic manganese stabilizing protein (MSP) of PSII influences the efficiency and stability of the manganese cluster, as well as the rates of the S state transitions. To understand how MSP influences photosynthetic water oxidation, we have employed isotope editing and difference Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. MSP was expressed in Escherichia coli under conditions in which MSP aspartic and glutamic acid residues label at yields of 65 and 41%, respectively. Asparagine and glutamine were also labeled by this approach. GC/MS analysis was consistent with minimal scrambling of label into other amino acid residues and with no significant scrambling into the peptide bond. Selectively labeled MSP was then reconstituted to PSII, which had been stripped of native MSP. Difference Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to probe the S1QA to transition at 200 K, as well as the S1QB to transition at 277 K. These experiments show that aspargine, glutamine, and glutamate residues in MSP are perturbed by photooxidation of manganese during the S1 to S2 transition.
Use of an electric field to alter membrane morphology in a polysulfone-polyvinylpyrrolidone blend

Abstract An inherent characteristic of many polymer-based systems used in membrane manufacture is the tendency to form numerous defects such as macrovoids and pinholes. Such defects are manifested as large scale surface pores. In this research note we discuss the potential use of electric fields to influence the mechanisms by which these defects are formed during the precipitation step in the wet-cast phase-inversion process for polymeric membrane formation. Several electrical field phenomena including surface-induced-polarization, electrohydrodynamic convection, and enhanced transport can potentially be used to alter polymeric membrane morphology if the time scale for these electric field effects is short enough. We report preliminary experimental results corresponding to the formation of tubular membranes from a polysulfone-polyvinylpyrrolidone blend in a N,N-dimethylacetamide solution precipitated in water under the influence of an a.c. electric field. This study suggests that the electric field effects can be operative on the short time scale of membrane formation. Based upon the statistically significant differences in the frequency distribution of defect number versus defect area which were obtained, the results indicate that the presence of a 2.2 kV/cm a.c. electric field decreases the average number density of defects while increasing the total defect area. These results suggest that further experiments with more sophisticated equipment would permit the electric field effects to be optimized in order to reduce the number and the size of the surface defects.
Molecular cloning and DNA sequence analysis of cDNA encoding chicken homologue of the Bcl-2 oncoprotein.

Abstract We have isolated a 2228 bp cDNA clone encoding a chicken homologue of the human Bcl-2 oncoprotein by low-stringency hybridization screening of a λgt10 cDNA library derived from a chicken B-cell lymphoma. DNA sequence analysis of this cDNA revealed an open reading frame predicting a polypeptide of 232 amino acids and an M r of 25 839. The predicted protein is highly homologous to the human (73%) and mouse (70%) Bcl-2 proteins, and contains a hydrophobic stretch of amino acids within its carboxyl-end (213–229) consistent with an integral membrane protein. Areas of very high sequence homology shared by all three Bcl-2 proteins at the NH 2 -terminus (amino acids 1–33) and within the last 150 amino acids of these proteins suggest the presence of at least two evolutionarily conserved domains within the family of Bcl-2 proteins that may be important either for their targeting to mitochondria or their ability to block programmed cell death.
Trends in the evolution of the proopiomelanocortin gene.

Abstract The POMC gene is perhaps the most extensively studied member of the opioid/orphanin gene family. In Phylum Chordata this gene has been characterized in representatives of every class within the Gnathostomata, as well as in one representative agnathan vertebrate, the marine lamprey. This review provides a systematic overview of trends in the evolution of the melanocortins (ACTH/α-MSH, β-MSH, γ-MSH, and δ-MSH) and β-endorphin in gnathostomes, and advances the hypothesis that the appearance of γ-MSH occurred early in the radiation of the gnathostomes. A summary of the extensive work on POMC genes in the marine lamprey is also provided, as well as a reevaluation of the conserved regions in the sequence of CLIP (corticotropin-like-intermediate lobe peptide) in the POMC sequences of the various groups of gnathostomes.
Zone plate lenses for X-ray microscopy

Abstract Fresnel zone plate lenses with feature sizes as small as 50 nm have been constructed and used in the Stony Brook/NSLS scanning X-ray microscope with 3.1 nm radiation from Brookhaven's X-17 mini-undulator. The zone plates were fabricated at IBM using electron beam writing techniques, moire pattern techniques to monitor ellipticity, and a double development/double plating technique to provide additional thickness in the central region. A spatial resolution down to 75 nm was measured in the microscope. Using these zone plates, biological images were obtained of unaltered subcellular components. The images highlight protein concentration in unsectioned, unfixed, and unstained enzymatic granules in an aqueous environment.
Role of phenoxy radicals in PCDD/F formation

In this work, the role of phenoxy radicals in polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD/F) formation was investigated by studying the slow oxidation of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) and 2-chloroanisole (2-CA) at a gas-phase concentration of 4 ppm (∼2.1 × 104 μg/m3) over a temperature range of 400–800°C. Residence times were maintained at 2.0 ± 0.10 s. PCDD/F reaction products were dibenzofuran, dibenzo-p-dioxin, 4-chlorodibenzofuran, 1-chlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, 4,6-dichlorodibenzofuran, and 1,6-dichlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (1,6-DCDD). Major products observed in these experiments were 2,6-dichlorophenol, 3-phenyl-2-propenal, 1-indanone, 1,3-isobenzofurandione, and 3-phenyl-2-propenoyl chloride. The 2-CP and 2-CA experiments, along with the variable concentration 2-CA experiments, showed that the concentration of radicals present in the oxidation system has a significant effect on the PCDD/F product distribution and ultimately the PCDD/PCDF ratio. Also, the observation of dichlorinated phenoxy phenol and dichlorinated dihydroxybiphenyl, the proposed intermediate species in the radical–radical mechanism, suggests that radical–radical mechanism dominates gas-phase PCDD/F formation. This information will be helpful in constructing a detailed kinetic mechanism of PCDD/F formation/destruction in combustor postcombustion zone. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 34: 531–541, 2002
Dental Service Utilization among Urban and Rural Older Adults in China - A Brief Communication

Objectives: China's health care system is bifurcated in nature between rural and urban areas. In addition, there is a huge gap in socioeconomic status between rural and urban residents. The purpose of the study was to examine the factors related to dental visits among elders in rural and urban areas of Shanghai, China. Methods: Using a stratified random sampling method, a cross-sectional, face-to-face survey was conducted among elders aged 60 years and above in Shanghai during 2003-04. A total of 1,044 older respondents were included in the sample. Results: There was a significant urban and rural difference in dental visit rates over the 12-month period of the study. Results from the logistic regression analysis suggested that residing in urban areas was a significant positive factor related to dental visits. In addition, being younger, being able to pay out-of-pocket medical expenses, having had regular medical checkups, having a higher number of limitations because of chronic conditions, and being more concerned about eating a healthy diet were associated with increased odds of dental visits. Conclusions: Results suggest that urban–rural differences, as reflected in the socioeconomic status gap, disparity in medical insurance coverage, and access to dental care, have a significant impact on the use of dental services by Chinese elders. Individual sociodemographic characteristics, health status, and health attitude are important explanatory variables.
Is metformin or clomiphene citrate more effective for ovulation induction in polycystic ovary syndrome

Is metformin or clomiphene citrate more effective for ovulation induction in polycystic ovary syndrome?
Unequal arm space-borne gravitational wave detectors

Unlike ground-based interferometric gravitational wave detectors, large space-based systems will not be rigid structures. When the end stations of the laser interferometer are freely flying spacecraft, the armlengths will change due to variations in the spacecraft positions along their orbital trajectories, so the precise equality of the arms that is required in a laboratory interferometer to cancel laser phase noise is not possible. However, using a method discovered by Tinto and Armstrong, a signal can be constructed in which laser phase noise exactly cancels out, even in an unequal arm interferometer. We examine the case where the ratio of the armlengths is a variable parameter, and compute the averaged gravitational wave transfer function as a function of that parameter. Example sensitivity curve calculations are presented for the expected design parameters of the proposed LISA interferometer, comparing it to a similar instrument with one arm shortened by a factor of 100, showing how the ratio of the armlengths will affect the overall sensitivity of the instrument.
Purification of a neuropeptide Y-related peptide from the brain of the sea lamprey and its effect on steroidogenesis

A peptide with neuropeptide Y-like immunoreactivity was identified by radioimmunoassay in an extract of the brain of the sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus using an antiserum raised against the conserved COOH-terminal region of mammalian neuropeptide Y. Purification of the peptide and determination of its primary structure showed that it was identical to peptide methionine-tyrosine (PMY), previously isolated from the intestine of the same species. Intraperitoneal injection of synthetic PMY (0.15 micrograms/g) into female lampreys undergoing final maturation before spawning produced a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in plasma concentrations of estradiol compared with control lampreys injected with vehicle only. These data suggest the hypothesis that the observed decrease in the concentration of PMY-containing cells in the intestines of lampreys during upstream migration may correlate with the increase in circulating estradiol concentrations and final maturational processes.
Pubovaginal slings for stress urinary incontinence following radical cystectomy and orthotopic neobladder reconstruction in women.

Purpose: We evaluated the clinical efficacy of pubovaginal slings for new onset stress urinary incontinence following radical cystectomy and orthotopic lower urinary tract reconstruction in women. Materials and Methods: Between June 1990 and July 2002, 101 female patients with primary transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder were treated with radical cystectomy and orthotopic ileal neobladder reconstruction. Four patients 61 to 73 years old underwent pubovaginal slings (autologous rectus fascia in 2 and dermal graft in 2) for stress urinary incontinence persisting 9 to 20 months following reconstruction with a Studer (2) or T pouch (2) ileal neobladder. Precystectomy continence was excellent in 3 patients, while 1 had mild stress incontinence. All patients had high grade, muscle invasive transitional cell carcinoma and/or carcinoma in situ with negative urethral margins and 3 of the 4 had lymph node negative disease on pathological examination. Two patients were treated with transurethral bulking material 4 to 5 months prior to the sling procedure without noticeable improvement. Results: Two patients who underwent autologous pubovaginal slings had significant complications arising from dissection in the retropubic space, including 1 entero-pouch fistula and 1 enterotomy resulting in an enterocutaneous fistula, sepsis and subsequent death. These 2 patients had persistent stress incontinence despite the sling procedures and they ultimately underwent conversion to continent cutaneous urinary diversions. Two patients were treated with a dermal graft sling using infrapubic bone anchors through a transvaginal approach, obviating the need to enter the pelvis. These patients had uneventful postoperative courses and they are currently hypercontinent, performing intermittent catheterization with complete daytime continence and only occasional nighttime leakage 3 and 9 months following sling surgery. Conclusions: Pubovaginal sling procedures for incontinence following orthotopic neobladder reconstruction in women may be complicated due to extensive pelvic surgery. Dissection in the retropubic space should be avoided because potentially fatal complications may occur. Slings using infrapubic bone anchors may provide the best option in such patients in whom conservative management has failed because the pelvis need not be violated.
DNA sequence dependence of ATP hydrolysis by RecA protein

Summary The DNA sequence dependence of the ATPase activity of RecA protein has been investigated for a variety of single strand octamer and hexadecamer homopolymers and alternating copolymers. Under assay conditions where the single strand DNA concentration exceeds the RecA protein concentration, significant differences in the rates of ATP hydrolysis for the various single strand DNA oligomer cofactors are observed. Under the conditions examined, the order of efficiency of the DNA cofactors in inducing RecA mediated ATPase activity is found to be: dA 16 > dT 16 > d(TC) 16 > dT 8 > dC 16 > dA 8 = dG 8 > dG 16 > dC 8 > d(AG) 16 . These results demonstrate not only a dependence of RecA ATPase activity on the sequence composition of short single strand DNA they further reveal ATPase activity can be affected by the nearest neighbor nucleotide sequence of short DNA cofactors.
Estimation of sucrose-6-phosphate and glucose-1,6-diphosphate in tea leaves and strawberry leaves

Abstract A method for the estimation of sucrose-6-phosphate and glucose-1,6-diphosphate in a highly purified extract of strawberry and tea leaves is described. This is based on hydrolysis to the corresponding hexose-6-phosphates and estimation of these by specific enzymes using a fluorimetric technique.
An ultrasound-based noninvasive neural interface to the retina

Focused ultrasound (FUS) is emerging as a promising technology for neural stimulation. In this study, we demonstrate the algorithm and the frontend integrated circuit (IC) architecture design for an ultrasound-based noninvasive neural interface to the retina. A digital image is provided as the input to the system, and the system calculates the excitation signal for each element in a 2D transducer array. With each element being excited accordingly, the array can “project” the image onto the retina as an ultrasound field pattern (USFP). The algorithm is based on the fast Fourier transform (FFT), which makes real-time implementation feasible.
Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis in pheasants and chukars.

Pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) and chukars (Alectoris graeca) were inoculated with Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus. Antibody titers reached a peak 2 weeks postinoculation and then declined. Viremia was of short duration, clinical signs were not detected, and uninoculated cage mates did not develop antibody titers.
Numerical solutions for the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations in primitive variables using a non-staggered grid, 11

Abstract In Part I of this study, a method was developed for the solution of the pressure Poisson equation, with Neumann boundary conditions, on a non-staggered grid. This method was used to determine the pressure when given the velocity field from a stream function-vorticity solution. In Part II, the pressure equation is solved iteratively with the momentum (Navier-Stokes) equations on a non-staggered grid. In this case, the solution of the pressure equation not only provides the pressure, but also serves to indirectly satisfy the continuity equation. This primitive variables formulation has a major advantage over the stream function-vorticity method in its applicability for three-dimensional flow. Numerical results are obtained and compared with the stream function-vorticity results for the driven cavity of Part I.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic study of ion etching and electrical biasing of silicon nitride on a carbon fiber

Carbon fibers with a chemical vapor-deposited silicon nitride surface film have been investigated with core and valence band x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The ability of the films to protect the fibers from oxidation was evaluated by heating, by argon and oxygen ion etching and by using an electrical biasing potential. Oxygen ion etching appears to oxidize the Si3N4 to SiO2, whereas argon etching removes the oxide and any hydrocarbon surface layer. The valence band data for Si3N4, Si2N2O, and SiO2 are interpreted by multiple scattered wave Xα calculations. The films crack when an electrical potential is applied, and the cracking is reproducible and irreversible, occurring particularly with a negative potential bias. We find chemical shifts on the core levels consistent with differential charging of the silicon nitride coating, an observation that is supported by sample biasing experiments. The work suggests that the cracking of the silicon nitride coating will significantly limit its effectiveness in protecting carbon fibers and carbon–carbon composites from oxidation.
Advantages and risks of ileovesicostomy for the management of neuropathic bladder.

Abstract Objectives. To evaluate the efficacy and complications of ileovesicostomy in patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunction. Methods. Fifteen consecutive neurologically impaired patients (8 from multiple sclerosis, 4 from spinal cord injury, 3 from other causes) with complications of previous bladder management underwent ileovesicostomy. There were 10 women and 5 men. All patients were either poor candidates for or refused continent urinary diversion or bladder augmentation cystoplasty. Results. At a mean follow-up of 23.2 months, 14 of 15 patients had low-pressure urine drainage through their ileovesicostomy. Four women with documented preoperative detrusor hyperreflexia had postoperative intermittent mild urge incontinence per native urethra. They did not require any further treatment, except for oral anticholinergic drugs (oxybutynin and tolterodine). Because of persistent severe urge incontinence, 1 woman required conversion of her ileovesicostomy to an ileal conduit with concurrent cystectomy. The ileovesicostomy of another myelodysplastic man who had four failed artificial urinary sphincters in the past was also converted to an ileal conduit because of persistent urethroperineal fistula despite perineal urethral closure. Renal function was preserved in all patients. Long-term complications were stomal stenosis in 2 patients, bladder and kidney stone formation in 5, and symptomatic urinary tract infections in 3. Conclusions. Ileovesicostomy can be safely performed in neurologically impaired women and men. Severe preoperative detrusor hyperreflexia with urge incontinence appears to be a risk factor for persistent urge incontinence postoperatively in women. Continued routine urologic surveillance for infection and stones is mandatory. Ileovesicostomy is a versatile procedure for neurologically impaired patients, because it can be converted to a conventional ileal conduit if necessary. In addition, in cases of neural recovery, the ileal “chimney” can be excised and the patient’s original lower urinary tract would be preserved.
Liver phosphorylase in normal and adrenalectomized dogs treated with serotonin.

The hyperglycemic action of serotonin was investigated in 6 normal and 10 adrenalectomized dogs. In normal dogs, intravenous injections of serotonin were followed promptly by hyperglycemia, decreased liver glycogen and increased liver phosphorylase activity. In control adrenalectomized dogs treated with saline, a progressive decrease in blood glucose and liver glycogen was observed. Serotonin injections did not prevent these phenomena and caused only a delayed increase in phosphorylase activity. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the increase of liver phosphorylase activity, glycogenolysis, and blood glucose concentration observed in normal dogs, are not due to a direct stimulation of liver phosphorylase by serotonin, but are secondary to a release of epinephrine from the adrenal glands.
Moderators of the intention–behavior relationship in influenza vaccinations: Intention stability and unforeseen barriers

Intentions and behavior are consistently correlated to one another. Although this relationship is strong, it is not perfect. What causes a person's behavior to deviate from previous intentions? This study examined the impact of two factors—intention stability and unforeseen barriers—on the intention–behavior relationship. In a longitudinal study of 101 university faculty and staff, more stable intentions over a four-year period led to stronger intention–behavior agreement for influenza vaccination in the fourth year. To investigate the role of unforeseen barriers, we took advantage of the fact that in the first year of the study flu shot availability was delayed, forming a barrier that arose after intentions to vaccinate were measured, but before the behavior could be carried out. As a result, the intention–behavior relationship was weaker in this year of the study than in the following years when no such barrier occurred. Both of these results help to elucidate the reasons why intentions and behaviors ar...
Sequential Z-transform analysis of a multirate sampled data system

Abstract An ordered sequential analysis of multirate sampled data systems is developed after presenting Ragazzini-Zadeh type identities for fast and slow samplers. These is no need for the uniform decomposition of the fast sampler or for the often used Kranc decomposition. A Kranc decomposition critique is presented. An example of a multirate sampler and hold is given. The Discrete Fourier Transform is shown to be properly based on the Z -transform. Digital computer simulation of dynamical systems requires three Fast Fourier Transform passes.
Small-signal-gain spectrum of an 1800 Torr CO2 amplifier

AbstractProminent hot -band effects have been observed in the 9.4 and 10.6 um gain spectrum of an 1800 Torr electron -beam -controlled -discharge CO2 laser amplifier. The data are in goodagreement with theoretical calculations at 53 different frequencies:IntroductionSuppression of parasitic oscillations is essential for the operation of high- energy, high -gain, short -pulse amplifiers in ICF laser systems. It is necessary to accurately knowa CO2 amplifier's gain spectrum over both the 9.4 and 10.6 um bands in order to prepare an optimum mixture of absorber gases which reduces below the parasitic threshold the netsmall -signal gain at all frequencies, but simultaneously allows maximum transmission of theamplified short pulse.' This paper reports measurements of the small- signal gaincoefficients of 53 different lines in the P and R branches of the 9.4 and 10.6 um bands ofan 1800 Torr electron -beam -controlled- discharge CO2 amplifier. It is also demonstratedthat the data, which constitute
The micro-wear technique and its application to ultrathin film systems

A micro-wear testing technique has been developed by incorporating a piezoelectric pusher into an existing microindenter system. The pusher and its associated servo-control circuitry were designed to generate a precise reciprocating horizontal motion at the indenter tip for implementing a microscaled wear test. The information acquired from the test includes the wear loading curve, i.e., the normal applied load versus wear penetration depth, the friction force, and in turn, the apparent wear friction coefficient. Measuring the electrical resistance across the coating thickness is also possible if an electrical conducting indenter is utilized. Furthermore, in conjunction with the surface characterization tools, the wear morphology revealed useful information regarding the coating failure mechanism(s) and shed some light toward understanding coating tribology. The tester design concepts, operating procedure, data acquisition, and analysis will be examined. Experimental results on ultrathin carbon coatings with various thicknesses will be employed to illustrate the capabilities of the micro-wear tester.
Semantics-based representation for multimodal interpretation in conversational systems

To support context-based multimodal interpretation in conversational systems, we have developed a semantics-based representation to capture salient information from user inputs and the overall conversation. In particular, we present three unique characteristics: fine-grained semantic models, flexible composition of feature structures, and consistent representation at multiple levels. This representation allows our system to use rich contexts to resolve ambiguities, infer unspecified information, and improve multimodal alignment. As a result, our system is able to enhance understanding of multimodal inputs including those abbreviated, imprecise, or complex ones.
Determination of the Enantiomeric Composition of Chiral Aminoalcohols Using Chiral Derivatization and Reversed-Phase Liquid Chromatography

Abstract A variety of racemic aminoalcohols were derivatized with 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranosyl isothiocyanate. The resulting two diastereomeric derivatives of each racemate were separated on octadecylsilane liquid-chromatographic columns using methanol-water mixtures as mobile phase and detection at 254 nm. The procedure is simple, rapid and convenient, and may be generally applicable to the determination of the enantiomeric composition of aminoalcohols.
The Seep Meter : a benthic chamber for the sampling and analysis of low velocity hydrothermal vents

Abstract A ‘Seep Meter’ for the determination of flow rate and collection of water samples from low velocity hot springs on the sea floor is described. The device is a benthic chamber designed for deployment from a research submersible. Temperature in the chamber is monitored in real time, providing information for both the collection of samples and the determination of flow rate. Samples of solution from the chamber are collected to determine the composition of solutions emanating from the hot springs. The performance of the instrument has been evaluated in a series of laboratory experiments and in field deployments in hydrothermal areas of the Guaymas Basin.
GENETIC CONTROL OF BARBITURATE DEPRESSION: STRAIN AND SEX VARIATION

Drug responses were studied in two inbred strains of mice consisting of paired genotypes obtained by selective breeding and designated as BSVS (sensitive) and BRVR (resistant) with respect to certain bacterial and other infections. Strain sensitivity and resistance to pentobarbitone and hexobarbitone was established by dose-response curves utilizing the frequency and duration of the loss of righting reflex. The BSVS strain was sensitive and the BRVR strain was resistant to barbiturate depression. Also, in both strains, males were more sensitive than females. Possible differences in genetically controlled receptor sensitivity and circulatory or metabolic factors are discussed. These findings are also analysed in terms of species, sex, environmental and other variables affecting drug responses.
Mobile computing devices in higher education: Student perspectives on learning with cellphones, smartphones & social media

Abstract The purpose of this research was to explore teaching and learning when mobile computing devices, such as cellphones and smartphones, were implemented in higher education. This paper presents a portion of the findings on students' perceptions of learning with mobile computing devices and the roles social media played. This qualitative research study focused on students from three universities across the US. The students' teachers had been integrating mobile computing devices, such as cellphones and smartphones, into their courses for at least two semesters. Data were collected through student focus group interviews. Two specific themes emerged from the interview data: (a) advantages of mobile computing devices for student learning and (b) frustrations from learning with mobile computing devices. Mobile computing devices and the use of social media created opportunities for interaction, provided opportunities for collaboration, as well as allowed students to engage in content creation and communication using social media and Web 2.0 tools with the assistance of constant connectivity.
Mass Spectrometric Analyses of β-Ketolactone Oligomers, Macrocyclic or Catenane Structures?

Mass spectrometry is used to develop an analytical method for a new class of organic oligomeric material, beta-ketolactones. Three different series with varying oligomeric sizes are examined. The oligomers may form at least two different structures, a macrocyclic and a catenane ring. Fast atom bombardment coupled with Fourier transform mass spectrometry provides a rapid and convenient method that provides both molecular weight information and abundant fragment ions that are structurally relevant. All the compounds are found to work well with the mass spectrometric analysis. Electrospray ionization coupled with triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry was also evaluated and found to yield results that are similar to FAB. On the basis of the FAB and the low-energy collisionally activated dissociation spectra, we conclude that these compounds are macrocyclic rings and not catenanes.
Carbonate-filled channel complexes on carbonate ramps: an example from the Peerless Park Member [Keokuk Limestone, Visean, Lower Carboniferous (Mississippian)], St. Louis, MO, USA

Abstract The Peerless Park Member [Keokuk Limestone, Lower Carboniferous (Visean, Mississippian)], exposed in the St. Louis, MO, area includes a carbonate-filled channel complex with lithology and faunal elements distinct from under- and overlying strata. The complex is confined within a channel of 100-m apparent width that is under- and overlain by cherty, glauconitic crinoid–bryozoan–skeletal wackestone, packstone and grainstone with abundant hardgrounds and little evidence for wave or current energy. Laterally, the valley includes two subchannels separated by a subtle high. The deeper subchannel truncates up to 5 m of strata. The maximum thickness of the channel fill and associated deposits is 6 m. The channel fill includes a matrix-supported conglomerate locally at its base, non-cherty quartz silty–foraminifer–peloid–crinoid–bryozoan–skeletal grainstone with spectacular lateral accretion foresets up to 5 m thick, and cherty skeletal packstone. A capping foraminifer–skeletal grainstone is erosionally overlain by a 10-cm thick quartz siltstone that grades up into glauconitic crinoid–bryozoan–skeletal wackestone and packstone. On the channel flanks, correlative strata of the Peerless Park Member are less than 1 m thick, and include a lower non-cherty crinoid–foraminiferal–skeletal grainstone, a middle cherty packstone and an upper skeletal grainstone. The upper grainstone is in turn erosionally overlain by the thin quartz siltstone that abruptly grades into the crinoid–bryozoan–skeletal wackestone and packstone of the upper part of the Keokuk Limestone. The strata of the Peerless Park Member are interpreted to be the result of a relative fall of sea level that places shallow water, high-energy inner ramp grainstone immediately above deeper water, outer ramp packstone and grainstone. There is no evidence for gradual downward or basinward migration of facies belts. Instead, shallow water facies appear to have abruptly jumped downdip. Likewise, no field or petrographic evidence for subaerial exposure has been recognized, so the relative fall in sea level may not have subaerially exposed the area. This occurrence of an isolated, downdip carbonate grainstone filled channel complex not accompanied by progradational, forced regressive deposits appears to be unique in carbonate ramp depositional systems and the channel includes fill with character different from many previously documented ramp carbonate-filled channels.
The Development of a Phosphorus Management Strategy for Two Piedmont Reservoirs in North Carolina

ABSTRACT Phosphorus loading to the recently impounded B. Everett Jordan and Falls of the Neuse reservoirs in North Carolina has been the subject of public debate and research for many years. A strategy was developed in 1983 to reduce phosphorus inputs from both point and nonpoint sources. Monitoring and research results, nutrient budget analyses, application of simple nutrient and chlorophyll a models, and knowledge of the emerging technology of biological phosphorus removal have led to the development of a modified strategy for dealing with point sources. This includes effluent limits (total phosphorus = 2 mg/L as a quarterly average) for all new and expanding dischargers and all existing dischargers greater than 50,000 gallons per day (gpd) in both basins.
Unexpected speed-up in Java on multiprocessors

Fine-tuning the partitioning algorithm for Quick Sort and Kth Element led to investigation of alternative ways of moving the median of three elements into position for the algorithm as used by Naps [1]. One is to fully three-sort the low, middle, and high elements; the other, simply to identify the median element and move it into the low position. Unexpectedly, the latter algorithm takes more time when running under Java on a multiprocessor computer.
Paleotempestite Distribution across an Isolated Carbonate Platform, San Salvador Island, Bahamas

ABSTRACT Mattheus, C.R. and Fowler, J.K., 2015. Paleotempestite distribution across an isolated carbonate platform, San Salvador Island, Bahamas. Sediment cores were collected from coastal ponds across San Salvador Island, an isolated Bahamian carbonate platform, and integrated with aerial photographs and field-survey data to provide insight into how spatially variable storm records are at the island scale and what drives this variance. A better understanding of local tempestite generation and preservation potential is crucial for correlating events across more regional scales. Sandy storm layers, products of beach overwash and/or high-energy aeolian transport from the shore into coastal ponds, are easily distinguished from flocculated carbonate muds, microbial mats, and other organics that ordinarily sequester in the stagnant, low-energy coastal water bodies. Interpreted paleotempestites do not correlate well between studied ponds using a strictly stratigraphic approach, although all sites investigated a...
DIRECT GONAD-PITUITARY FEEDBACK: AN ANALYSIS OF EFFECTS OF INTRACRANIAL ESTROGENIC DEPOTS ON GONADOTROPHIN SECRETION.

In spayed rats, intrapituitary ovarian grafts or estrogenic depots caused castration cells to regress in localized regions. The volume of tissue affected was proportional to the estrogen concentration of the depot. Intrahypothalamic pellets tended to reduce the size, but not the population density, of the castration cells, but only at higher doses. These slight effects were not localized, however. These findings suggest that direct but localized effects of intrapituitary hormone depots may fail to influence enough pituitary tissue to permit the change to be detected at the periphery. The possibility that a hormone can act directly casts doubt upon the interpretation that the effects of intrahypothalamic hormone depots reveal an indirect feedback pathway—via neural “receptors.” Intrahypothalamic administration may merely be the most efficient method of distributing a compound to the entire adenohypophysis. The pertinence of this “implantation paradox” is discussed in relation to the large body of work aime...
Resveratrol reverses monocrotaline-induced pulmonary vascular and cardiac dysfunction: A potential role for atrogin-1 in smooth muscle

Arterial remodeling contributes to elevated pulmonary artery (PA) pressures and right ventricular hypertrophy seen in pulmonary hypertension (PH). Resveratrol, a sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) pathway activator, can prevent the development of PH in a commonly used animal model, but it is unclear whether it can reverse established PH pathophysiology. Furthermore, atrophic ubiquitin ligases, such as atrogin-1 and MuRF-1, are known to be induced by SIRT1 activators but have not been characterized in hypertrophic vascular disease. Therefore, we hypothesized that monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PH would attenuate atrophy pathways in the PA while, conversely, SIRT1 activation (resveratrol) would reverse indices of PH and restore atrophic gene expression. Thus, we injected Sprague-Dawley rats with MCT (50 mg/kg i.p.) or saline at Day 0, and then treated with oral resveratrol or sildenafil from days 28-42 post-MCT injection. Oral resveratrol attenuated established MCT-induced PH indices, including right ventricular systolic pressure, right ventricular hypertrophy, and medial thickening of intrapulmonary arteries. Resveratrol also normalized PA atrogin-1 mRNA expression, which was significantly reduced by MCT. In cultured human PA smooth muscle cells (hPASMC), resveratrol significantly inhibited PDGF-stimulated proliferation and cellular hypertrophy, which was also associated with improvements in atrogin-1 levels. In addition, SIRT1 inhibition augmented hPASMC proliferation, as assessed by DNA mass, and suppressed atrogin mRNA expression. These findings demonstrate an inverse relationship between indices of PH and PA atrogin expression that is SIRT1 dependent and may reflect a novel role for SIRT1 in PASMCs opposing cellular hypertrophy and proliferation.
A HALF-CENTURY OF CYCLOHEPTATRIENYLMETAL CHEMISTRY: EXPERIMENT AND THEORY

Bruce King joined Gordon Stone's research group at Harvard University in 1957 and initiated his research on synthetic transition metal organometallic chemistry. The work that he presented at the Stone Symposium evolved during more than a half-century from his 1959 discovery of the sandwich compound (η5-C5H5)V(η7-C7H7) while a student in Gordon Stone's Harvard laboratory. After leaving Gordon's research group Bruce King continued synthetic studies on cycloheptatrienylmetal compounds. This led to the discovery of the first trihapto derivatives (η5-C5H5)Mo(CO)2(η3-C7H7) and (η3-C7H7)Co(CO)3, while working at the Mellon Institute (now Carnegie-Mellon University) in the 1960s. Bruce King then continued work in synthetic inorganic and organometallic chemistry and related experimental work at the University of Georgia until the late 1990s, when he closed down his experimental (“wet chemistry”) laboratory to concentrate on theoretical and mathematical chemistry. At that time he initiated collaborative work in var...
Elementary divisors of tensor products and p-ranks of binomial matrices

Abstract Let F be a field of characteristic p and let A and B be two Jordan blocks with nonzero eigenvalues. The reduction formulas of C.W. Norman enable us to compute the elementary divisors of A ⊗ B . We investigate connections between the elementary divisors of A ⊗ B and binomial matrices. In particular, we show that Norman’s reduction formulas can be used to compute the p -rank of certain binomial matrices.
Short and long-term motor and cognitive outcome of staged bilateral pallidotomy: a retrospective analysis.

Background. We investigated retrospectively the short and long-term motor and cognitive functioning of staged bilateral pallidotomy using motor testing and a comprehensive neuropsychological battery before and after each procedure. Methods. Fifteen patients with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease were assessed at baseline and at least 3 months after each of their two staged surgeries. Motor and neuropsychological results were compared to 15 non-surgical Parkinson’s disease patients matched for disease stage and mental status. In addition, nine bilateral pallidotomy patients were evaluated for long-term cognitive changes (>2 years). Findings. Bilateral pallidotomy patients demonstrated significant improvements in motor functioning in the “on” and “off” states and with dyskinesias after the first surgery, with an additional improvement reported for dyskinesias after the second procedure. On long-term follow-up, dyskinesia improvements were maintained. Bilateral pallidotomy patients did not show significant cognitive declines following both procedures on the short-term follow-up and when compared to the Parkinson’s disease group. However, significant cognitive declines were found on the long-term follow-up evaluation. Conclusions. Parkinson’s disease patients received significant short- and long-term motor benefits, particularly reduced dyskinesias, following staged bilateral pallidotomy without significant short-term cognitive consequences. Two years following the second procedure, bilateral pallidotomy patients tended to show an increase in both motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, particularly cognitive decline.