cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wavelet-based dimension reduction for hyperspectral image classification

For dimension reduction of hyperspectral imagery, we propose a modification to Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Karhunen-Loeve Transform, by choosing a set of basis vectors corresponding to the proposed transformation to be not only orthonormal but also wavelets. Although the eigenvectors of the covariance matrix of PCA minimize the mean square error over all other choices of orthonormal basis vectors, we will show that the proposed set of wavelet basis vectors have several desirable properties. After reducing the dimensionality of the data, we perform a supervised classification of the original and reduced data sets, compare the results, and assess the merits of such transformation.
Executive compensation, method of payment and abnormal returns to bidding firms at takeover announcements

This study investigates the association between method of payment, long-term performance plans, managerial stockholdings and abnormal returns to bidding firms at takeover announcements, using a cross-sectional regression methodology. Previous studies have examined each of these factors separately. The results indicate that firms with long-term performance plans and high managerial stockholdings in cash offers experience significantly higher abnormal returns at the announcement of mergers prior to 1980. The study provides additional evidence in explaining the previous conflicting results (Jensen and Ruback, 1985), examining the stock market reaction of bidding firms at merger announcements.
Math and Science Academic Success in Three Large, Diverse, Urban High Schools: A Teachers' Story.

Large, traditional urban high schools are among the most difficult education environments in the United States. These schools, which serve a high percentage of the Black and Latino students in the United States, often have low academic performance, high dropout rates, high teacher and school leader turnover, and inexperienced teachers. They often exist within contexts of high poverty, high family mobility, high unemployment, and low social capital. However, because they serve such a high percentage of students nationally, academic success at these schools is an equity issue with major national economic and social wellbeing implications. As a result, there have been many efforts to reform these urban high schools or whole urban districts. Despite some exceptions, particularly in small schools that serve a small percentage of students, the success of these reforms has been limited. This is the report of a qualitative study of teachers', school leaders', and students' perceptions of three large, traditional ...
Ultrafiltration: separation enhancement by counter-current cascading

Abstract A model has been developed which predicts the performance of a counter-current ultrafiltration cascade. The model demonstrates that use of such a cascade can improve separations over those obtained with a single ultrafilter with respect to both separation factor and extraction. However, the model also shows that a high extraction and a high separation factor are mutually exclusive. The model predictions are compared with experimental data for the separation of S-ovalbumin and glucose by a three-stage cascade. The experimental separations were less than those predicted by the model. This discrepancy is most probably because of a failure in the approximation used to correct for concentration polarization as the volume extraction at individual stages increased. Nevertheless, the data show that the performance of the cascade is clearly superior to that obtained for a single ultrafilter
Growth and the diffusion of platinum atoms and dimers on Pt(111)

Abstract The diffusion of platinum adatoms and dimers on Pt(111) has been measured at different temperatures by direct observation in a low-temperature field ion microscope. The activation energy for single atom motion is found to be 0.260 ± 0.003 eV, while for dimers it is 0.37 ± 0.02 eV. Comparison with previous results obtained in STM studies of the density of islands after deposition from the vapor as well as with theoretical estimates are now possible. The former are in excellent agreement, the latter less so, but empirical extrapolation from the neighboring iridium proves useful. Contributions from dimer diffusion to growth at low temperatures can also be assessed, and are found to be minor.
Thermal decomposition of (C6Me6)Ru(η4-C4Me4S) and related reactivity and structural studies

Abstract The paper focuses on selected aspects of the chemical behavior of (C6Me6)Ru(η4-C4Me4S) (1). Thermal decomposition of 1 in saturated hydrocarbon solutions yields the trinuclear product (C6Me6)3Ru3(C4Me4S)2 (2a) which has been further characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The molecule is centrosymmetric with two (C6Me6)Ru(C4Me4S) entities coordinated through their sulfur atoms to a central (C6Me6)Ru unit. When the thermolysis is conducted in aromatic solvents, we also observed products resulting from arene exchange such as (arene)C6Me6)2Ru3(C4Me4S)2, where arene = C6 D6 (2b), toluene (2c). The (C6Me6)3 and arene-exchange products are formed competitively, not consecutively. Compound 2a is protonated by NH4PF6 to give the hydride [(C6Me6)3Ru3(C4Me4S)2H][PF6] ([2aH]PF6). Compound 2aH+ is structurally dynamic in solution resulting from restricted rotation about the RuS axis. Compound 1 decomposes in the presence of H2 to give the dinuclear dihydride (C6Me6)2Ru2(C4Me4S)H2 (3), assigned an unsymmetrical structure where one (C6Me6)Ru center is bound to two hydrides and a sulfur atom, while the second (C6Me6)Ru is coordinated in an η4-mode to the thiophene.
The occurrence of delayed-neutron precursors☆

Abstract A survey of the isotope tables for delayed-neutron precursors has been made for odd- Z nuclei having neutron numbers greater than the magic numbers by either two or three. The quantity Q β – B n was calculated for each case from known data or from energy systematics to determine if neutron emission is energitically possible. Among the fourteen non-fission products examined, two are known delayed-neutron precursors. In only one other case, namely 81 209 Tl, is there a possibility of delayed-neutron emission. The sixteen fission products considered include four known precursors, two nuclei previously suggested as precursors and three uncertain cases. In all the other cases delayed-neutron emission is energetically impossible.
Synthesis and enzymatic decarboxylation of 6-bromo-L-dopa, a potential brain tracer for L-dopa†

Direct bromination of L-dopa with stoichiometric amounts of molecular bromine was found to yield 6-bromo-L-dopa as the sole product. This determination was made using liquid chromatography with electrochemical detector, mass spectroscopy, and proton NMR. 6-Bromo-L-dopa was found to be a substrate of an isolated decarboxylase enzyme although the rate of decarboxylation was much slower than that for L-dopa. These results suggest that a radiobrominated L-dopa analog may be a suitable PET or SPECT tracer for L-dopa in the brain.
Assessing EO image degradation from underwater optical turbulence in natural waters

It is a well-known fact that the major degradation source on EO imaging underwater is from scattering by the medium itself and the constituents within, namely particles of various origins and sizes. Recent research indicates that under certain conditions, such degradations could be caused mainly by the variations of index of refraction associated with temperature and salinity micro-structures in the ocean. These would inherently affect the optical signal transmission underwater, which is of vital interest to both civilian and military applications, as they could include diver visibility, search and rescue, mine detection and identification, and optical communication. The impacts from the optical turbulence are yet fully understood, in part due to the challenges associated with parameterization of individual factors. This study presents the initial attempts in quantifying the level of EO image degradation due to optical turbulence in natural waters, in terms of modulation transfer functions, and enhancements using the lucky patch approaches derived from optical flow techniques. Image data collected from natural environments during SOTEX (Skaneateles Optical Turbulence Exercise, July 22-31, 2010) using the Image Measurement Assembly for Subsurface Turbulence (IMAST) are presented. Optical properties of the water column were measured using WETLab's ac-9 and LISST (Laser In Situ Scattering and Transmissiometry), in coordination with temperature, conductivity and depth. Turbulence conditions were measured by two different approaches, namely a 3D Doppler based velocimeter with Conductivity/Temperature combo, and a shear based Vertical Microstructure Profiler.
Some Consequences of the Significantly Different Mobilities of Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Metal Complexes in Perfluorosulfonated Ionomer Coatings on Electrodes

Thin coatings of Nafion on glassy carbon rotating disk electrodes were saturated with hydrophilic [Ru(NH_3)_6^(3+), Co(NH_3)_6^(3+)] or hydrophobic [Ru(bpy)_3^(2+)] counterions. With both types of counterions, the plateau currents obtained when the electrodes were rotated in solutions of the cations matched the currents obtained with the uncoated electrodes in the same solutions at all accessible rotation rates. The high rates of cross-coating charge propagation demonstrated by these results involved physical diffusion of the hydrophilic complexes and electron hopping between adjacent, immobile pairs of the hydrophobic complexes. The approximate concentration profiles that develop within, and just outside of, Nafion coatings on disk electrodes that are rotated in solutions of electroactive counterions are depicted.
Psychological distress among minority and low-income women living with HIV.

The growing incidence of HIV infection among low-income and minority women makes it important to investigate how these women adjust to living with HIV and AIDS. Psychological distress associated with HIV infection may compound the adjustment difficulties and increase the barriers to care associated with living in poverty. The authors surveyed 100 women who were receiving HIV care at a public hospital in the southeastern United States on measures of depression, anxiety, life stress, social support, and coping; they also assessed demographic and medical characteristics of the sample. Participants' annual incomes were low (87% < $10,000), and most participants were minorities (84% African American). Their levels of depression, stress, and anxiety symptoms were elevated relative to community norms. Greater anxiety and depression symptoms were associated with women who reported higher stress, using fewer active coping strategies, and perceiving less social support (ps < .001).
Monitoring biochemical reactions using Y-cut quartz thermal sensors.

In this paper, we present a micromachined Y-cut quartz resonator based thermal sensor array which is configured with a reaction chamber that is physically separated but located in close proximity to the resonator for sensitive calorimetric biosensing applications. The coupling of heat from the reaction chamber to the quartz resonator is achieved via radiation and conduction through ambient gas. The sensor was packaged onto a 300 μm thick stainless plate with an opening in the middle. The sensor array was aligned to the opening and mounted from the underside of the plate. A reaction chamber designed for performing (bio)chemical reactions was used in the measurements. This configuration of the sensor allows for a very robust sensing platform with no fouling of the sensor surface or degradation in its performance metrics. Impedance-based tracking of resonance frequency was used for chemical, enzymatic, and cellular activity measurements. The sensor described has an impedance sensitivity of 852 Ω °C−1 or a frequency sensitivity of 7.32 kHz °C−1 for the 91 MHz resonator used in this work. Results on exothermic reaction between hydrochloric acid and ammonium hydroxide, the hydrolysis reaction of urea by urease and the catalytic reaction of glucose with glucose dehydrogenase are reported. From the signal to noise ratio analysis of the glucose sensor, <10 μM glucose sensitivity could be obtained improving the detection limit by a factor of 250 in comparison to our previous work using thermopile sensors. Finally, calcium ionophore induced cellular activity was measured in pancreatic cancer cells using the sensor.
The extent to which triangular sub-patterns explain minimum rank

For any zero-nonzero pattern of a matrix, the minimum possible rank is at least the size of a sub-pattern that is permutation equivalent to a triangular pattern with nonzero diagonal. For certain numbers of rows and columns, the minimum rank of a pattern is k only when there is a k-by-k such triangle. Here, we complete the determination of such sizes by showing that an m-by-n pattern of minimum rank k must contain a k-triangle for m=5, k=4; m=6, k=5; and m=6, k=4. A table is given showing whether or not this happens for all m, n, k. In the process, a Schur complement approach to minimum rank is described and used, and simple ways to recognize the presence of triangles of sizes less than 7 are given.
An X-Ray Study of the p-n-Alkoxybenzoic Acids. Part V. Crystal Structures of the Nematogenic Acids Having Three and Five Alkyl-Chain Carbon Atoms

Abstract The crystal structures of p-n-propoxy- and p-n-pentoxy-benzoic acids (3OBAC and 5OBAC) have been determined at room temperature by single-crystal x-ray analysis. Both crystals have sheet structures. Within each sheet the molecules are arranged as hydrogen-bonded dimers in head-to-tail fashion in parallel staggered rows. The long axes of the aromatic nuclei are almost normal to crystal b. The alkyl chains are in planar extended form, but the ether oxygen and C(γ) are in a gauche relation about the C(α)-C(β) bond of the chain. The stacking of sheets is slightly different in 3OBAC which undergoes a solid-solid transition before yielding a nematic phase, than in 5OBAC which transforms directly to the nematic state. The tight face-to-face overlap of phenyl rings characteristic of the crystal structures of the two lowest homologs in the series, which are non-mesogenic at atmospheric pressure, is absent in these crystal structures where the ring planes in adjacent sheets are inclined to one another by a...
Intra-sire Regression of Offspring on Dam as a Measure of the Additive Genetic Variance for Five Week Body Weight in Coturnix coturnix japonica

Abstract Intra-sire regression of offspring on dam was employed to estimate the heritability of five week body weight in Japanese quail. A total of 413 offspring from 28 sires of 64 dams were measured. Heritabilities of 0.44 ± 0.31 and 0.24 ± 0.22 were obtained from daughter-dam and son-dam regressions, respectively.
Molecular genetics approaches in yeast to study amyloid diseases

The occurrence of protein aggregates in ordered fibrillar structures known as amyloid, found inside and outside of brain cells, is a feature shared by many neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases. Although the molecular mechanisms that underlie neurodegeneration will ultimately have to be tested in neuronal and animal models, there are several distinct advantages in using model organisms to elucidate fundamental aspects of protein aggregation, amyloid formation, and toxicity. Here, we review recent studies indicating that amyloid formation by disease-causing proteins can be faithfully recapitulated in simple yeast-based models in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. These studies have already contributed to our basic understanding of molecular chaperone function/dysfunction in Huntington’s disease, and functional genomics approaches being undertaken currently will likely bear novel insights into the genes and pathways that modulate neuronal cell dysfunction and death in these devastating diseases. A final advantage of using yeast to study amyloid formation and toxicity is the ease and rapidity with which large-scale drug-screening efforts can be conducted in this model organism.
Income distribution trends in Brazil and China: Evaluating absolute and relative economic growth

Abstract Over the past two decades real per capita income has increased significantly in Brazil and spectacularly in China. Relative inequality in the distribution of income, however, has remained high in Brazil and has worsened in China. This paper uses a “stochastic dominance” approach to evaluate the welfare effects of a combination of rising mean per capita income in the context of worsening relative inequality. It concludes that by this criterion economic welfare in Brazil increased slightly in the 1981–2002 period. In China, the rapid increase in mean per capita was more than sufficient to overcome significantly increased relative inequality. Between 1985 and 2001 economic welfare thus increased substantially. The overall increase in welfare in both countries, however, is more complex when analyzed by consideration of specific time periods or by rural–urban decomposition.
Three dimensional numerical simulation of shell-and-tube heat exchangers. Part I: Foundation and fluid mechanics

A three-dimensional, colocated, fully implicit, control volume based calculation procedure, HEATX[1], has been used to simulate fluid flow and heal transfer in shell-and-tube heat exchangers. The three-dimensional numerical model uses the distributed resistance method along with volumetric porosities and surface permeabilities to model the tubes in the heat exchanger. Turbulence effects are modeled using a modified k-ϵ model with additional source terms for turbulence generation and dissipation by tubes. Shell and baffle walk are modeled using the wall function approach. Tubes and baffles are modeled using volumetric porosities and surface permeabilities. Baffle-shell and baffle-tube leakages are modeled using a Bernoulli type formulation. Specialized geometry generators compute baffle, nozzle, and tube region porosities and permeabilities. This article presents the foundation and fluid mechanics of the problem. A subsequent article will discuss modeling of shell-side and tube-side heat transfer. The thre...
Thyrotropin releasing factor: A putative CNS regulator of the automatic nervous system

Abstract Thyrotopin releasing factor (TRF) acts with the brain to elevate plasma levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine. In contrast to other CNS stimuli which increase plasma epinephrine levels, epinephrine secretion stimulated by TRF is not inhibited by peptides related to somatostatin. Associated with the TRF induced increase in plasma catecholamines is an elevation of plasma glucagon and glucose, effects which are prevented by adrenalectomy.
Cellular basis for dispersion of repolarization underlying reentrant arrhythmias

Substantial heterogeneity in ion channel density and expression exists in cells isolated from various regions of the heart. Cell-to-cell coupling in the intact heart, however, is expected to attenuate the functional expression of the ion channel heterogeneities. Due to limitations of conventional electrophysiological recording techniques, the extent to which cellular electrical heterogeneities are functionally present in intact myocardium remains unknown. High-resolution optical mapping with voltage-sensitive dyes was used to measure transepicardial and transmural repolarization gradients in the Langendorff perfused guinea pig ventricle and the canine wedge preperation, respectively. Diversity of repolarization kinetics in the transepicardial direction modulated dispersion of repolarization in a biphasic fashion as premature coupling interval was shortened. Moreover, modulation of repolarization paralleled arrhythmia vulnerability in a predictable fashion. Transmural optical mapping revealed significant gradients of repolarization across the ventricular wall that were markedly increased in a surrogate model of LQTS. Transmural gradients of repolarization in LQTS were associated with an enhanced susceptibility to TdP. Therefore, despite strong cell-to-cell coupling in the normal heart, heterogeneities in the ionic make-up of cells across the epicardial and transmural surfaces result in functional heterogeneities of repolarization leading to arrhythmias.
Parametric investigation of solar panel hypervelocity impact damage

Individual hypervelocity impacts on satellite solar panel surfaces generally pose less of a threat to critical system functioning than impacts on critical components located on the satellite body. However, accumulation of impacts over the large surface area of the solar panels leads, in some cases, to a degradation of efficiency. Since this degradation depends both on the number of impacts and the extent of the individual localized damage, we have conducted a suite of calculations designed to understand the dependence of localized surface damage on mass and velocity of the impactor. The calculations varied mass (10−12 to 10−3 g) and velocity (1 to 12 km/s) to reveal a distinct threshold for penetration damage. In addition, the effect of including voids in the impactor material was considered. The solar panel was modeled, using the CTH hydrocode, as three layers -- glass, silicon and aluminum. CTH is designed to treat a wide range of shock wave propagation and material motion phenomena. Physically based numerical models are relied on due to the limited laboratory data available over the mass and velocity range covered. This paper presents and analyzes more than 40 calculations; most are 2D, but some are 3D.
Solvent effects on the nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of methyl hydroxystearates

High resolution NMR spectra of all the isomeric methyl hydroxystearates have been measured in carbon tetrachloride, pyridine, and quinoline. As a result of association with the solvent, spectra in pyridine, and particularly in quinoline, are considerably different from those in carbon tetrachloride. The two pairs of methylene groups on either side of the CHOH grouping are deshielded by the associated solvent molecule giving a new signal at 1.58 ppm in pyridine, and at 1.75 ppm in quinoline. Deshielding of the terminal CH3 occurs in isomers with hydroxyl near the methyl end, and of the methylene alpha to the ester group in isomers with hydroxyl near the ester end of the chain. When the spectra of isomers substituted near the center of the chain are observed in quinoline, the major methylene signal is split into two peaks due to differential shielding by the solvent. The differences between the spectra of each isomer measured in quinoline are sufficiently large for use as a method of identification.
Clinical study of dental caries and tongue thrust

The relationship of tongue-thrusting to the incidence of dental caries is evaluated. Twenty-eight tongue-thrusters were matched with 28 nontongue-thrusters according to age and sex. The tongue-thrust group had 97.8% more decayed, filled surfaces and 84.1% more decayed, filled teeth. The difference between pairs was significant statistically. Tongue-thrust therapy may be valuable in the prevention of dental disease, although the results of this experiment do not bear directly on this possibility. The tongue-thrust syndrome and its effects on oral health deserve further investigation.
An Intelligent Tutoring System with an Automated Knowledge Acquisition Mechanism

The intelligence of E-learning system has become one of regarded topic to public. Using adoptive E-learning system to supplement or replace the classroom is becoming more common in education. To develop an automated knowledge Acquisition intelligent tutoring system is the aim of this paper. Moreover the knowledge Acquisition system (KAS) can improves the education efficiency highly since this system is to automate the knowledge acquisition process, and to perform an analysis based on the students' performance and to select the materials intelligently appropriate to the students' levels and understandings.
Establishment of warm-season grasses in summer and damage in winter under supplementary irrigation in a semi-arid environment at high elevation in western United States of America.

As with other areas of the world, herbage production of cool-season grasses in irrigated semi-arid areas of the western USA at high elevation declines during summer. The use of warm-season grasses during this period could be a possible way to ameliorate this decline in herbage production. The ability of twenty-one grass cultivars, representing seven warm-season grass species, to establish in the summer of 2005, as measured by stand frequency and herbage production, the potential for damage in winter under irrigated conditions in 2005–2006 and the stand frequency in 2006 at two sites in semi-arid environments of the western USA was compared with that of a cultivar of each of six cool-season grass species. Some warm-season grass species, including switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), showed potential for use in this environment, based on their similar herbage production in 2005 and similar values of stand frequency in 2005 and 2006 to that of cool-season grasses. All the cultivars of the warm-season grass species suffered greater winter damage than did the cultivars of the cool-season species. The higher winter damage to the species of warm-season grasses did not correspond with a lower stand frequency in the second year.
Highly conductive epoxy/graphite composites for bipolar plates in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

Abstract Carbon-filled epoxy composites are developed for potential application as bipolar plates in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. These composites are prepared by solution intercalation mixing, followed by compression molding and curing. Electrical conductivity, thermal and mechanical properties, and hygrothermal characteristics are determined as function of carbon-filler content. Expanded graphite and carbon black are used as synergistic combination to obtain desired in-plane and through-plane conductivities. These composites show high glass transition temperatures (Tg ∼ 180 °C), high thermal degradation temperatures (T2 ∼ 415 °C), in-plane conductivity of 200–500 S cm−1 with 50 wt% carbon fillers, in addition to offering high values of flexural modulus, flexural strength, and impact strength, respectively 2 × 104 MPa, 72 MPa, and 173 J m−1. The presence of carbon fillers helps reduce water uptake from 4 to 5 wt% for unfilled epoxy resins to 1–2 wt%. In addition, morphology, electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties remain unchanged on exposure to boiling water and acid reflux. This data indicate that the composites developed in this work meet many attributes of bipolar plates for use in PEM fuel cells.
Detection of version features in distributed systems

In this paper we demonstrate how version features can be defined, detected, and used to determine language versions. Using the BNF notation, distinct features can be conveniently specified in the context-free grammar global to all of the versions. A feature matrix specifying the relationship maintained by terminal features is proposed to implement the global grammar, on which determining language versions is based.
The Lyot depolarizer in quasimonochromatic light

An analysis is made of the depolarizing properties of the Lyot depolarizer on light of arbitrary polarization and spectral properties. It is shown that the percentage modulation of the intensity transmitted by a rotating polarizer placed behind the depolarizer is a simple function of the Fourier transform of the frequency power spectrum of the incident light. Some consequences of this behavior are examined for commonly encountered spectra, notable among which is a periodic dependence of the modulation factor on the thickness of the depolarizer when the incident beam is generated by a semiconductor laser.
Study of bi-alkali photocathode growth on glass by X-ray techniques for fast timing response photomultipliers

Bi-alkali antimonide photocathode is an essential component in fast timing response photomultipliers. Real-time in-situ grazing incidence x-ray diffraction and post-growth x-ray reflectivity measurement were performed to study the photocathode deposition process on glass substrate. Grazing incidence x-ray diffraction patterns show the formation of Sb crystalline, dissolution of crystalline phase Sb by the application of K vapor and reformation of refined crystal textures. XRR result exhibits that the film thickness increases ~ 4.5 times after K diffusion and almost have no change after Cs diffusion. Further investigation is expected to understand the photocathode growth process and provide guidelines for photocathode development.
Brain acetaldehyde after ethanol administration

Abstract Gas Chromatographic determination of blood and brain levels of acetaldehyde was made by two methods in C57B1/6J and DBA/2J mice after a single injection of ethanol (3 g/kg, i.p.). Ninety min after the administration of ethanol, blood levels of acetaldehyde were 70 nmoles/ml and 200 nmoles/ml for the C57 and DBA mice respectively. Corresponding brain levels, after correcting for blood content, were 6.4 nmoles/g and 17.3 nmoles/g for C57 and DBA mice respectively. These results indicate that blood acetaldehyde levels after acute administration of ethanol do not reflect those found in brain. The results further suggest that brain may be protected, at least in part, from concentrations of acetaldehyde found in blood, by an effective metabolic barrier.
Production of new CMS Brassica oleracea by transfer of 'Anand' cytoplasm from B. rapa through protoplast fusion

New types of cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) in Brassica oleracea would be useful for F1 hybrid seed production. The `Anand' cytoplasm derives from the wild species B. tournefortii. Rapid cycling stocks of B. rapa and B. oleracea were used in cybridization experiments as donor and recipient of `Anand' (=`tour') CMS, respectively. Prior to fusion with PEG, donor protoplasts were inactivated with 30 krad γ-rays and recipient ones with 3 mM iodoacetate, respectively. No calli were obtained from the pre-treated protoplasts. The frequency of shoot regeneration was 21–43% in untreated B. oleracea controls, but only 0–0.5% in `Anand' B. rapa. Putative cybrids were regenerated from about 3% of the calli from fused protoplasts. Regenerated plants were analyzed for nuclear DNA content, plant and flower morphology, pollen production, female fertility, cold tolerance, and organelle composition. Eighty-one percent of the regenerated controls and 63% of fusion-derived plants were diploid. The rest showed DNA contents corresponding to 2x–4x, 4x, or higher ploidy levels, presumably due to somatic doubling in vitro and/or fusions in which the donor nucleus was not completely eliminated. Sixty-four percent of the cybrids had stamens and petals varying in size and shape and were male-sterile, with indehiscent anthers. Their phenotype was otherwise similar to that of B. oleracea. The remaining plants had normal flowers and were male-fertile. Data from crosses with fertile pollinators indicated good female fertility in some of the sterile lines, both after hand and insect pollinations in cages. Mitochondrial (mt) segregation in the cybrids was slightly biased towards `Anand' mitochondria, and the presence of `Anand' mtDNA fragments was strongly associated with male sterility. Evidence of mtDNA rearrangements was obtained in some cybrids. Segregation of chloroplasts was slightly biased towards B. oleracea. The presence of `Anand' chloroplasts with a B. oleracea nucleus did not result in cold temperature chlorosis, as seen in `Ogura' CMS plants.
The Adolescent Parenting Program: Improving Outcomes Through Mentorship

This study analyzed the efficacy of a program designed to improve infant outcomes through the enhancement of health practices and parenting skills. The program provided intensive home visitation by nursing paraprofessionals indigenous to the community for the 2-year study period. The study sample comprised 137 low-income pregnant and parenting adolescents living in an urban area who had been screened positive for risk of child maltreatment. Program outcomes were compared to local and national data. Results revealed that only 4.6% of program infants were low birth weight compared to the local (13.5%) and national (9.42%) incidences. The mean length of gestation was 39.27 weeks (SD = 1.55). There were no infant deaths while the national as well as local infant mortality rate is almost twice the state average. Only 4 cases of child neglect (2.91%) were observed. This study indicates that the program may be effective in reducing infant mortality low birth weight and child maltreatment. Further research involving a large geographically diverse sample measures of social support and mentorship and alternate measures of child abuse are recommended.
Electronic absorption spectra of the 5d3 hexafluororhenate(IV) ion

Abstract The Γ 8 ( 4 A 2 g ) →Γ 7 ( 2 T 2 g ), Γ 8 ( 2 T 2 g ) electronic transitions for the 5 d 3 hexafluororhenate(IV) ion have been observed at liquid hydrogen temperature in a single Cs 2 GeF 6 crystal and in a mixed crystal where the ReF −2 6 ion is doped in the cubic Cs 2 GeF 6 lattice. The electronic transitions have been assigned with a crystal field model to give information about the parameters B , C , Dq , and spin-orbit coupling. The vibrational structure in the mixed crystal system may be assigned to the ungerade modes of the ReF −2 6 moiety. Comparison of the mixed and pure crystal vibrational structure shows that the pure crystal vibrational structure can be interpreted on the basis of K ≠ 0 lattice effects and a small distortion in the pure crystal.
Cherenkov and transition radiation diagnostics for high energy free-electron lasers

Electron Beam diagnostics based on imaging techniques using Cherenkov conversion screens and intensified video cameras should be adaptable to the developing high-energy free-electron lasers (FEL) driven by radio frequency powered linear accelerators. The high beam energies (60-150 MeV) and the peak currents (100s of amps) anticipated should also make optical transition radiation intensities sufficient for these techniques. The distinctive features of the two light generation mechanisms will be summarized and a few diagnostic examples will be cited.
Ytterbium metal-insulator-semiconductor contacts to indium phosphide

Abstract Yb has been shown to form high quality rectifying contacts to p -InP and linear, low resistance contacts to fn-InP. The Yb-rectifying contacts gave a barrier height of 1.03–1.04 eV by C - V , and ideality factor of 1.25 with a 10 A interfacial oxide and reverse saturation current density of 2–3 × 10 −9 A / cm 2 . As a temperature sensor, the contact gave a sensitivity of 2.4 mV/K with linearity from 100 to 450 K. The low resistance contact to n -InP has a resistance of 0.02 Ω-cm 2 on undoped material.
Pathophysiology of traumatic shock

HOCK, a condition of decreased total body oxygen delivery, can be brought on by a number of mechanisms. These include failure of the heart to pump blood through the body (cardiogenic shock), loss of circulating fluid volume (hemorrhagic), decreased oxygen-carrying capacity (anemic), or loss of vascular tone (neurogenic). 1 "Traumatic shock," shock brought on by an injury in an otherwise healthy patient, is best thought of as a combination of these factors. The initial phase is usually hemorrhagic: the patient bleeds, and perfusion decreases. This may be followed by an anemic phase as the patient is resuscitated with crystalloid solutions and simultaneously mobilizes interstitial fluid into the vasculature: A cardiogenic or neurogenic component may be present initially, caused by specific injuries to the heart or central nervous system, or may be the secondary result of hypoperfusion and the release of toxic factors. It is important to recognize that the traumatic shock observed clinically in severely injured patients may be quite different from the induced shock observed in laboratory animals hemorrhaged under controlled conditions.
Four-level atomic coherence and cw VUV lasers

Abstract We demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing the so-called `double-dark' scheme of four-level atomic coherence to obtain strong laser gain in the ultra-violet and vacuum ultra-violet. Furthermore, we show a new technique for eliminating Doppler broadening in a large class of multi-level (≥4) schemes. A specific application of these ideas to cw lasing at 253 nm and 185 nm in Hg is presented.
Work Volition as a Critical Moderator in the Prediction of Job Satisfaction

Building on the Psychology of Working Framework, the current study explored the extent to which work volition functioned as a moderator in the relation between positive affect, core self-evaluations, perceived organizational support (POS), and work self-efficacy to job satisfaction. In a diverse sample of 206 employed adults, work volition was found to be a significant moderator in the relations of self-efficacy and POS to job satisfaction. Specifically, as work volition increased, the relation of self-efficacy to job satisfaction increased, whereas the relation of POS to job satisfaction decreased. Results of this study lend initial support to the proposition that the strength and direction of established predictors of job satisfaction depend, in part, on an individual’s level of work volition. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
At Loggerheads: Gear Damage in the Blue Crab Fishery Attributed to Loggerhead Sea Turtles

Abstract North Carolina's fishery for the blue crab Callinectes sapidus is experiencing problems with gear damage during the summer season. Individuals of a protected species, the loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta, are the likely culprits of crab pot damage, bait theft, and reduced crab catch, perhaps with important economic impacts. In summer 2005, we conducted a fishing study in cooperation with a pair of crabbers operating one commercial blue crab boat in Core Sound, North Carolina, to characterize location, timing, and extent of damage to crab pots. We examined spatial and temporal overlap of fishing activity with loggerhead sea turtle sightings and quantified blue crab catch. Eighty-seven percent of pots were damaged throughout the course of the study, and gear damage peaked in late June to early July. We measured a 40% reduction in blue crab catch in crab pots that were damaged. Loggerhead sea turtle sightings were consistent with areas of high gear damage. Our results should be considered by ma...
β-Adrenergic response in mouse CNS reaggregate cultures

Abstract Primary reaggregate cultures from 17-day embryonic mouse brains were prepared and tested for β-adrenergic response. Isoproterenol stimulated the production of cAMP 3- to 4-fold over basal levels after 10 days in culture. The response to isoproterenol was rapid, reaching a maximum 1–2 min after stimulation, and was blocked by propranolol. The β-adrenergic receptor was characterized in membranes prepared from reaggregates by measurement of specific binding of [125I]iodohydroxybenzylpindolol (IHYP). The Kd for IHYP was 100–300 pM and did not change as a function of time in culture. A maximum receptor density of approximately 80–110 fmol/mg membrane protein was found. Both β-adrenergic receptors and response appeared at times in culture, which were approximately equivalent to birth.
Phosphoralaninate Pronucleotides of Pyrimidine Methylenecyclopropane Analogues of Nucleosides: Synthesis and Antiviral Activity

The Z- and E-thymine and cytosine pronucleotides 3d, 4d, 3e, and 4e of methylenecyclopropane nucleosides analogues were synthesized, evaluated for their antiviral activity against human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2), varicella zoster virus (VZV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HSV-1), and hepatitis B virus (HBV) and their potency was compared with the parent compounds 1d, 2d, 1e, and 2e. Prodrugs 3d and 4d were obtained by phosphorylation of parent analogues 1d or 2d with reagent 8. A similar phosphorylation of N4-benzoylcytosine methylenecyclopropanes 9a and 9b gave intermediates 11a and 11b. Deprotection with hydrazine in pyridine–acetic acid gave pronucleotides 3e and 4e. The Z-cytosine analogue 3e was active against HCMV and EBV. The cytosine E-isomer 4e was moderately effective against EBV.
Effects of etomidate administration on cerebral collateral flow.

OBJECTIVE: Augmentation of blood flow to collateral-dependent tissue (CDT) as a result of selective vasodilation of collateral vessels has been shown to occur with various stimuli after middle cerebral artery occlusion. Etomidate, a carboxylated imidazole derivative, is a nonbarbiturate anesthetic that is used clinically both as an anesthetic and as a neuroprotective agent. The effect etomidate has on collateral cerebral vessels is unknown. The purpose of our studies was to test whether etomidate selectively augmented cerebral blood flow (CBF) to CDT during ischemia as an additional mechanism of neuroprotection. METHODS: A left craniotomy was performed in each of 14 dogs, with the animals under halothane anesthesia. A branch of the middle cerebral artery was occluded and cannulated distally for determination of CDT using a shadow flow technique. CBF and vascular pressures were measured and used to calculate vascular resistance. An etomidate infusion (0.1 mg/kg of body weight/min administered intravenously) was started, and CBF and vascular pressures were measured at 10 and 40 minutes. Hypotension was then induced, and CBF and pressures were again measured. RESULTS: CBF was significantly reduced in all regions of the brain, including CDT, when etomidate was infused. CDT showed a 53.7% reduction in flow, whereas normal CBF was reduced by at least 63.4%. During hypotension, blood flow to CDT was reduced by an additional 42.7%, whereas normal cerebrum was reduced by at least 22.7%. Vascular resistance was increased in all vessels during etomidate infusion. CONCLUSION: The neuroprotective effects of etomidate do not seem to be through the augmentation of collateral or global CBF.
CHALLENGES FOR NONPROFIT HOUSING ORGANIZATIONS CREATED BY THE PRIVATE HOUSING MARKET

Community development corporations (CDCs) and other large nonprofit housing organizations are major producers of housing for low-income households. One of the least recognized and examined set of c...
Alignment of the Earth's Magnetic Field with the Axis of Rotation and Reversals of Polarity: Laboratory Experiments on a Mechanism

Abstract A mechanism that can cause the earth's external magnetic field to be aligned with the axis of rotation and to reverse at random times is described. It depends upon two arbitrary assumptions: (a) A dipole magnetic source, of unspecified nature, deep within the core, wanders randomly in direction. (b) The conducting fluid at the outer boundary of the core circulates in a pattern that is symmetrical with respect to the earth's axis of rotation. It is shown that such a circulating layer will act as an anisotropic screen, which will suppress the field of the transverse component of the source dipole. The field observed outside the core will be mainly that of the axial component of the source, and it will reverse abruptly whenever the direction of the source crosses the equatorial plane. Quantitative experimental studies, made on small-scale models, of the effects and their properties are described. The only datum that even suggests a value that may be used for the angular velocity of the circulating outer layer with respect to the source is the angular velocity of the westward drift of the earth's nondipolar field. If that value is used, the anisotropic screening effect comes out to be strong enough to give alignment and reversal characteristics that are similar to those found from paleomagnetic studies.
Ion Channel Modulation as the Basis for Neuroprotective Action of MS‐153

MS-153, (R)-(-)-5-methyl-1-nicotinoyl-2-pyrazoline, is a new neuroprotective drug. Recent data in the literature suggest that it inhibits glutamate accumulation occurring during ischemia and the translocation of protein kinase C gamma (PKC gamma). The present study was undertaken to prove the hypothesis that MS-153 blocks neuroreceptors and ion channels involved in glutamate accumulation. Neurons isolated from rat dorsal root ganglia and frontal cortex were used for recording channel currents by the whole-cell patch clamp technique. The effects of bath-applied MS-153 were examined on tetrodotoxin-sensitive and tetrodotoxin-resistant sodium channels and high voltage-gated calcium channels of dorsal root ganglion neurons, and channels activated by glutamate, N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), kainate, alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxarole propionic acid (AMPA), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and acetylcholine (ACh) in cortical neurons. MS-153 at a concentration of 300 microM had no effect on either tetrodotoxin-sensitive or tetrodotoxin-resistant sodium channels. High voltage-gated calcium channels were either suppressed or not affected by 1-300 microM MS-153. The variable blocking effect of MS-153 was due to the variable activity of intracellular components in individual neurons, especially that of PKC, whose translocation is known to be inhibited by MS-153. When 100 nM phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) was applied to neurons, MS-153 suppressed the calcium channel current more frequently. Calphostin C (0.5 microM), a specific PKC inhibitor, applied intracellularly via recording patch pipette, completely abolished MS-153 suppression of the calcium channel current. Currents induced by glutamate, NMDA, kainate, AMPA, GABA or ACh were not affected by MS-153 at 300 microM. It was concluded that MS-153 inhibited high voltage-gated calcium channels through interactions with PKC, thereby preventing massive release of glutamate from nerve terminals in ischemic conditions.
Processing and characterization of silicon nitride nanofiber paper

Papers of silicon nitride nanofibers were synthesized by a carbothermal reduction process. These nanofiber papers were synthesized in situ and did not require a secondary processing step. The process utilized silica nanopowders and silica gel as the precursor material. Processing geometry played a crucial role in regulating the growth of the nanofiber papers. Characterization of the nanofiber papers indicated that the nanofibers were of the alpha silicon nitride phase. Both mechanical stiffness and strength of the nanofiber papers were measured. Thermal conductivity and specific heat of the papers were also measured and were found to be lower than many common thermal insulation materials at much smaller thicknesses and were comparable to those values that are typically reported for carbon-nanotube-based buckypaper. Results of the mechanical and thermal characterization indicate that these silicon nitride nanofiber papers can be utilized for specialized thermal insulation applications.
Activation of the complement sequence by extracts of bacteria and fungi associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Complement (C) consumption by antigens associated with hypersensitivity pneumonitis was investigated. Micropolyspora faeni in the presence of precipitating antibodies consumed C in a manner similar to the BSA-anti BSA system. An extract of M. faeni was shown to consume C and convert C3PA to C3A in the absence of detectable antibodies. In addition, three species of Aspergillus and two strains of Thermoactinomyces vulgaris were also shown to have the same activity with respect to C3PA. Mucor racemosus, Hormodendrum sp. and a mixed extract of Penicillium did not convert C3PA.