cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Substitution site specificity on the Ru10C2 cluster framework. Multiple convergent pathways to the mixed hydrocarbon ligand derivative Ru10C2(CO)21(NBD)(C2R2)

The substitution of carbonyl ligands in the edge-shared bioctahedral cluster [PPN]2[Ru10C2(CO)24] by two types of 4e donor π-bonding ligands, viz., a diene (norbornadiene) and an alkyne (diphenylac...
Phase-specific optimization of multiple endotoxin-protein production with genetically engineered Bacillus thuringiensis

An optimization approach was designed to specifically study the toxin-expression phase of the fermentation process of a genetically engineered Bacillus thuringiensis strain expressing dual toxin proteins (CryI and CryIII). The study has resulted in the discovery of important nutrient and process factors affecting toxin-protein yield. The results show that the existence of nitrogen sources in the medium during the toxin-expression phase is detrimental to the toxin-protein expression, while a high carbon-source level (40 g/l) encouraged protein expression. The study also suggests that the depletion of nitrogen source is the trigger for B. thuringiensis to initiate sporulation and toxin expression. A temperature setting of 28 degrees C for B. thuringiensis fermentation processes is optimal for protein yield, and reduces the oxygen requirement. It was found that the optimal conditions for spore yield and for toxin-protein yield were not the same, even though sporulation and toxin formation proceed simultaneously during the fermentation process. Scale-up studies were also conducted to confirm the optimal conditions obtained from a small-scale optimization study.
Integrated GaAs Optical Receiver

Recent improvements in fiber optic semiconductor components (i.e. lasers and detectors) will lead to the rapid deployment of fiber optic systems in the next few years. This does not, however, signal the end of research in semiconductor optoelectronics, but rather the opening of new and ultimately more widespread application of optoelectronic devices. New and powerful signal processing and data transmission functions will become possible by the marriage of optical and electronic functions on a single monolithic wafer.
Status of Cosmological Parameters

The cosmological parameters that I will discuss are the Hubble parameter H 0 ≡100h km s-1 Mpc-1, the age of the universe t 0, the average density Ω0, and the cosmological constant Λ. The most important recent development is the new analyses based on Hipparchos data indicating that the oldest Globular Clusters in our Galaxy have ages of ∼ 11 Gyr. The evidence would favor small Ω0≈ 0.3 if (1) the Hubble parameter actually has the high value h≈ 0.7 still favored by some observers, and the age of the universe t 0 ≥ 13 Gy, despite the new Hipparchos results; (2) the baryonic/total mass ratio in clusters of galaxies is actually ∼ 20%, about twice as large as expected for standard BBN in an Ω=1 universe with the Tytler et al. value D/H ≈ 2 × 10-5; or (3) the comoving number density of clusters does not decrease much with increasing redshift. The evidence would favor ∼ ~ 1 if (1) the POTENT analysis of galaxy peculiar velocity data is right, in particular regarding outflows from voids or the inability to obtain the present-epoch non-Gaussian density distribution from Gaussian initial fluctuations in a low-a universe; or (2) the preliminary results from high-redshift Type Ia supernovae, which suggest that Ω0 ∼ 1 and ΩΛ is small, are confirmed. The latest small-angle CMB anisotropy data favor cosmologies in which Ω0 + ΩΛ ≈ 1. but statistics on gravitational lensing of quasars provide an independent upper limit on Λ,
Additional Analytical Data for Gabbro, GOG-1

Additional data for gabbro, GOG-1, were determined by instrumental-neutron-activation analysis, atomic-absorption spectrometry, and semi-quantitative spectrographic analysis. F ratios calculated in the analysis of variance for 26 sets of data for elements determined by the three methods were not significant, and hence the elements are distributed homogeneously among the bottles. The agreement between our data and the averages previously published ranges from very good to poor. More analytical data are necessary to establish reliable estimates of the concentrations of elements in GOG-1 and in two other gabbros so that three gabbros may be available to geochemists for use as standards.
The reproductive effects assessment group's report on the mutagenicity of inorganic arsenic

Various inorganic compounds of arsenic have been tested for mutagenicity in a variety of test systems ranging in complexity from bacteria to peripheral lymphocytes of exposed human beings. Although much of the data are contradictory, the weight of evidence supports the following conclusions: 1) arsenic is either inactive or extremely weak for the induction of gene mutations in vitro; 2) arsenic is clastogenic and induces sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) in a variety of cell types, including human cells, in vitro; trivalent arsenic is approximately an order of magnitude more potent than pentavalent arsenic; 3) arsenic does not appear to induce chromosome aberrations in vivo in experimental animals; 4) several studies suggest that human beings exposed to arsenic demonstrate higher frequencies of SCE and chromosomal aberrations in peripheral lymphocytes; 5) arsenic may affect DNA by the inhibition of DNA repair processes or by its occasional substitution for phosphorus in the DNA backbone. A summary of this literature is included in this article.
Radio-over-fiber technologies for multi-Gb/s wireless applications

We investigate the efficacy of simple RoF signal transmission techniques for multi-Gb/s wireless signal distribution at mm-wave frequencies. We employ simple digital signal processing techniques and experimentally demonstrate ultra high-capacity wireless data transmission at > 50 Gb/s.
A survey of 3D medical imaging technologies

Three-dimensional medical imaging methodologies are surveyed with respect to hardware versus software, stand-alone versus on-the-scanner, speed, interaction, rendering methodology, fidelity, ease of use, cost, and quantitative capability. The question of volume versus surface rendering is considered in more detail. Research results are cited to illustrate the capabilities discussed. >
Light-induced absorbance changes in Fraction I particles prepared from spinach chloroplasts by French-press treatment

Abstract Light-induced changes of absorbance were measured in Fraction 1 particles prepared from spinach chloroplasts according to a method developed by Michel and Michel-Wolwertz 6 that employs breakage of chloroplasts in the French pressure cell and centrifugation of the resulting fragments on a sucrose density gradient. Absorbance changes were measured in the presence of ascorbate and 2,3,5,6-tetramethyl-1,4-phenylenediamine as an electron donating system. In addition to the oxidation of P700 and cytochrome f, that was investigated in our previous study11, three other light-induced absorbance changes were observed; reduction of cytochrome b with a peak at 562 nm, the so-called 515-nm change showing an absorbance increase at 515 nm and a decrease at 480 nm, and a broad band of unknown absorbance increase covering wave-lengths from 490 to 570 nm. Uncouplers such as carbonylcyanide-m-chlorophenylhydrazone and gramicidin D inhibited the 515-nm change under continuous light and accelerated the dark decay of flash-light-induced change. The other broad absorbance change was insensitive to these inhibitors.
Similar effects of amphetamine and methylphenidate on the performance of complex operant tasks in rats.

Methylphenidate and D-amphetamine are central nervous system stimulants that have been suggested to share certain behavioral and neurochemical effects. The current study was undertaken to determine whether methylphenidate and D-amphetamine have similar effects on the performance of a battery of complex operant tasks in rats. Thus, the effects of amphetamine (0.1-6.0 mg/kg, i.p.) and methylphenidate (1.12-18.0 mg/kg, i.p) on the performance of rats in three complex food-reinforced operant tasks were examined. The tasks (and the brain functions they are intended to model) included: (1) conditioned position responding (auditory/visual/position discrimination); (2) incremental repeated acquisition (learning); and (3) temporal response differentiation (time estimation). In addition, each of these tasks was paired with a progressive ratio task to assess drug effects on the rats' motivation to lever press for the food reinforcers used. Consistent with their effects in other behavioral paradigms, methylphenidate and D-amphetamine produced very similar patterns of disruption of the four tasks. Drug-induced changes in the endpoints of the progressive ratio task generally paralleled changes in the other three tasks, suggesting a major role for appetitive motivation in the effects of these agents. Several effects of these agents seen in the current study are consistent with their effects in children with attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder. These data further validate the use of this battery of operant tasks for the characterization of pharmacological agents, and suggest that findings using these tasks may be predictive of what is seen in humans.
ST-Segment Analysis Using Wireless Technology in Acute Myocardial Infarction (STAT-MI) Trial

Objectives Our goal was to examine the effects of implementing a fully automated wireless network to reduce door-to-intervention times (D2I) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Background Wireless technologies used to transmit prehospital electrocardiograms (ECGs) have helped to decrease D2I times but have unrealized potential. Methods A fully automated wireless network that facilitates simultaneous 12-lead ECG transmission from emergency medical services (EMS) personnel in the field to the emergency department (ED) and offsite cardiologists via smartphones was developed. The system is composed of preconfigured Bluetooth devices, preprogrammed receiving/transmitting stations, dedicated e-mail servers, and smartphones. The network facilitates direct communication between offsite cardiologists and EMS personnel, allowing for patient triage directly to the cardiac catheterization laboratory from the field. Demographic, laboratory, and time interval data were prospectively collected and compared with calendar year 2005 data. Results From June to December 2006, 80 ECGs with suspected STEMI were transmitted via the network. Twenty patients with ECGs consistent with STEMI were triaged to the catheterization laboratory. Improvement was seen in mean door-to-cardiologist notification (−14.6 vs. 61.4 min, p Conclusions A fully automated wireless network that transmits ECGs simultaneously to the ED and offsite cardiologists for the early evaluation and triage of patients with suspected STEMI can decrease D2I times to
Task Driven Unified Synthesis of Planar Four-Bar and Six-Bar Linkages With Revolute and Prismatic Joints for Five Position Synthesis

This paper deals with the problem of integrated joint-type and dimensional synthesis of planar four-bar and six-bar linkages with revolute (R) and prismatic (P) joints for guiding through five specified task positions of the end-effector. In a recent work, we developed a simple algorithm for analyzing a set of given task positions to determine all feasible planar dyads with revolute and/or prismatic joints that can be used to guide through the given positions. The current paper extends this algorithm to the integrated joint-type and dimensional synthesis of Watt I and II and Stephenson I, II, and III six-bar linkages with a combination of R and P joints. In the process, we developed a new classification for planar six-bar linkages according to whether the end-effector can be constrained by two dyads (Type I), one dyad (Type II), or no dyad (Type III). We demonstrate this task driven synthesis approach with three examples including a novel six-bar linkage for lifting an individual with age disability from seating position to standing position.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Decay of 53V and 57Mn

Abstract The 1.287 MeV level (J π = 7 2 − ) in 53Cr was found to be populated in the β-decay of 1.60 min 53V. Beta-gamma coincidences revealed β-rays of 2.50 and 2.20 MeV in coincidence with the 1.003 and 1.287 MeV levels in 53Cr. Four new γ-rays were found in the decay of 1.54 min 57Mn. The energy level of 1.625 MeV in 57Fe was found to be populated. Beta decay of 57Mn (J π = 5 2 − ) to the 0.014 MeV level (J π = 3 2 − ) in 57Fe was measured to be 83.5%. The beta decay Q-value of 57Mn was determined to be 2.56±0.10 MeV.
The Demand for Money in Algeria: An Error Correction Approach

This study utilises co‐integrated series to estimate a model for the demand for money in Algeria with an error correction mechanism. In addition to expected income and inflation, long‐term demand for money balances in Algeria are also determined by variations in the expected foreign exchange market. The short‐term dynamics of money demand indicate that narrow real money balances possess a faster adjustment mechanism from previous year disequilibria than do broader real money balances.
SU-E-T-643: Optimum Beam Parameters for Lung SBRT Volumetric Arc Treatment.

Purpose: We present an analysis of the variation in acceptable SBRTlung plans with beam parameters. A figure of merit encompassing standard metrics is used for analytical comparison to determine the optimum plan quality. Methods: A set of optimization dose‐volume constraints was formulated that consistently produced acceptable plans. Plans were normalized to deliver a prescription dose (PD) of 5000 cGy to 95% of the PTV volume. The Conformity Index (CI), Conformity Number (CN), and Gradient Index (GI), and mean GTV dose (MDgtv) were calculated. In SBRT hotspots near the target center are often deemed acceptable. The ratio MDgtv/PD is greater then 1.0 and larger values indicate that more dose is delivered where desired within the PTV. We combine the indices into a single figure of merit, FOM = (1/CI)*CN*(1/GI)*(MDgtv/PD), for which larger values indicate better plan quality dosimetrically. FOM values were normalized to 1.0 for the best plan. Twenty four plans were calculated for 6X, 6X flattening filter free (FFF), 10X, and 10X FFF photon beams. The gantry arc rotations were 0°–180° (180arc), 135°–30° (255arc), and 181°–179° (360arc). The couch angle was either 0° (coplanar) or +/− 15° (non‐coplanar). Results: For the normal lung volume there was no significant variation in either mean dose or percent volume receiving 2000 cGy. However, the percent volume receiving 500 cGy varies significantly with energy and couch angle. Ninety six plan quality indices were tabulated. Overall, the 6X FFF non‐coplanar beam with a 255 degree arc gave the best the figure of merit; it was 6.5% higher then nearest competitor largely due to superior conformality. Conclusions: Individual plan quality indices were combined into a single figure of merit for various beam parameters that can be used to analytically select the optimum dosimetric plan.
Combustion of millimeter sized coal particles in convective flow

Abstract Continuous mass versus time data for single coal particles from 5.3 to 9.9 mm with gas temperatures of 900–1200K, Reynolds numbers of 63–126, and oxygen concentrations of 4.5–21 % are presented. Devolatilization and char burn models for millimeter sized particles are formulated and compared with the experimental results. The devolatilization rate is most sensitive to particle size and gas temperature. The char reactivity depends on initial size, Reynolds number, and oxygen concentration. The devolatilization rate agrees with the model of Anthony and Howard when volatile yields are provided from experimental data. The char burning rate follows a diffusion controlled shrinking sphere model when a diffusion screening factor is included.
Un estudio comparado de la distopía ‘femenina’: A hora da estrela y Brave New World

This is a comparative study between the dystopian realities of two female fictional characters: Macabea and Lenina Crowne. Both protagonists are embedded in a world that dictates and forces them into an automatic behavior. Not only socially but sexually theses individuals are restricted to what the system allows them to do as females in their respective oppressive environments. The similarities in both novels, A hora da estrela and Brave New World open a philosophical question on the freedom of will of individuals in societies, whose rigid parameters have been internalized as the norm.
Ethanol and pentobarbital have different behavioral effects in the rat

Abstract 1. 1. Stimulus control was established in rats with 600 mg/kg ethanol and saline by employing a two-lever response choice task and an FR10 schedule of food reinforcement. 2. 2. Once trained, rats were tested with lower doses of ethanol (300 and 450 mg/kg) and with pentobarbital (0.75–4.0 mg/kg). The 3.0 and 4.0 mg/kg doses of pentobarbital were observed to produce ethanol-like responding and decreasing doses of both ethanol and pentobarbital produced dose-related effects upon discriminative performance. 3. 3. The ED50 for ethanol was 372 mg/kg and for pentobarbital was 1.09 mg/kg. 4. 4. Graphic representation of the dose-response relationships suggested that these drugs possess different sites and/or mechanisms of action.
Variational aspects of Faddeev calculations

We examine differences between3H binding energies obtained by solving the Faddeev equations using standard partial-wave expansion procedures and results from solving the Schrodinger equation by means of the coupled-rearrangement-channel variational method. Variational bounds generated from Faddeev solutions for several contemporary, realistic potential models are presented as a function of the number of partial waves retained in the potential expansion. We demonstrate that the Faddeev wave function yields an optimal variational bound for the partial-wave truncated potential from which it is generated, but it does not yield optimal bounds for the full Hamiltonian or when the potential is partial-wave truncated at a different level. Finally, qualitative differences between3H solutions for static models such as the AV14 and RSC potentials and for momentum-dependent models such as the Nijmegen soft-core and Paris potentials are explored, and comparison is made with solutions for the RSC/TM two-body-force plus three-body-force model.
6 PRODUCTION OF GONADOTROPIN-RELEASING HORMONE II RECEPTOR KNOCKDOWN SWINE

The second mammalian isoform of GnRH (GnRH-II) is highly conserved from bony fish to humans. However, coding sequence for the receptor specific to this ligand contains reading errors in many species, suggesting the inability to produce a functional receptor. In contrast, the porcine GnRH-II receptor gene contains the appropriate sequence to produce functional protein. The objective of this study was to develop swine with reduced levels of endogenous GnRH-II receptors. Two potential target small hairpin RNA (shRNA1 and shRNA2) sequences specific to the porcine GnRH-II receptor were identified and subcloned into the lentiviral-based, pLVX-shRNA2 vector (Clontech) that provides both shRNA and fluorescent ZsGreen1 coexpression. Lentiviral particles were produced from each shRNA vector as well as a control vector using the Lenti-X HTX Packaging System (Clontech). The ability of shRNA1 and shRNA2 lentiviral particles to reduce porcine GnRH-II receptor mRNA levels was tested in a swine testis-derived (ST) cell line. The day before transduction, ST cells (2 × 106) were plated in 100-mm plates containing high-glucose DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS, 2 mM glutamine, 100 U mL–1 of penicillin and 100 mg mL–1 of streptomycin sulfate. Next, cells were transduced with 1.44 × 107 viral particles per plate for 48 h. The cells were harvested, RNA was extracted and converted to cDNA and quantitative PCR was performed to determine relative levels of GnRH-II receptor mRNA. Values were normalized using the expression levels of 18s rRNA and compared with GnRH-II receptor mRNA levels in ST cells transduced with control lentiviral particles. Lentiviral particles containing either shRNA1 or shRNA2 sequences significantly reduced GnRH-II receptor mRNA levels (95 and 99%, respectively) compared with control particles (P < 0.05). Next, lentiviral particles containing the shRNA2 sequence (1.15 × 109 infectious units mL–1) were microinjected within the perivitelline space of in vivo-derived pronuclear zygotes (n = 15) using a Nikon diaphot inverted microscrope equipped with Eppendorf micromanipulators and an Eppendorf FemtoJet injection system. Microinjected zygotes were subsequently cultured in 50-μL drops of NCSU-23 under mineral oil in a humidified 5% CO2 in air environment. Following 120 h of culture, 93% of the zygotes developed to the compact morula stage, whereas 73% formed blastocysts at 168 h. By 192 h, 80% of the microinjected embryos developed to the blastocyst or expanded blastocyst stages. Fluorescent microscopy revealed that all blastocysts expressed ZsGreen1, indicating a 100% transduction efficiency of shRNA2 lentiviral particles. Finally, embryos were surgically collected from white crossbred donor sows and transduced as described above. A total of 40, 33 and 23 microinjected zygotes were immediately transferred into 3 synchronized recipient females that will be allowed to gestate to term. The animals produced from this study will represent the first animal model to examine the physiological implications of reduced GnRH-II receptor levels.
Measurement of Radiation Dose Delivered to Breast Tissue During Mantle Field Irradiation for Hodgkin’s Disease

Abstract The treatment of Hodgkin’s disease involves mantle field irradiation. Patients with early stage (I–II) Hodgkin’s are often in their 20’s or 30’s and can expect to live for many decades after the successful management of their disease; however, complications, including second cancers in the treatment area, occur in some survivors. Breast cancer is among the leading second solid cancers that develop in patients who have undergone mantle field irradiation. This paper attempts to determine the dose that may be delivered to breast tissue from mantle field irradiation to treat Hodgkin’s disease. Utilizing an anthropomorphic phantom, thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) were placed into a breast phantom constructed of Superflab and TX-150, and were irradiated with 6 MV photons. Readings from 170 TLDs in five layers of breast phantom were analyzed. The results show considerable doses reaching portions of breast tissue. In measured points under the blocks, 8–15% of the prescribed isocenter dose was delivered. For points in the primary beam, readings of up to 91% of the isocentric dose were obtained. Points in the breast near block or collimator edges also received substantial doses; upwards of 70% of the prescribed dose. Several points in the breast outside the treatment field were also measured and readings ranged from 2 to 29% of the prescribed dose. Similar patterns of dose distribution were found on computer plans; however, point-by-point comparisons were not performed. These results are compared with published reports.
Polarimetric images of a cone

Scenes from a Mueller matrix movie of a brass cone are shown. From the Mueller matrix image, a variety of polarization measures are calculated and displayed. These polarization images reveal considerable details about the geometry of the cone despite the fact that the images are taken from a single vantage point, i. e. they are “flat images”. As the cone rotates, the orientation of the diattenuation and retardance follow the shape of the cone, providing a clear indication of its shape.
Pedagogical Practices to Support Classroom Cultures of Scientific Inquiry

This article examines the pedagogical practices of two science inquiry teachers and their students using a Web-based system called Web of Inquiry (WOI). There is a need to build a collective repertoire of pedagogical practices that can assist elementary and middle school teachers as they support students to develop a complex model of inquiry based on testing alternative hypotheses. A repertoire of effective instructional practices may help students learn the language of science, develop an understanding of scientific tools and representations, and take up a scientific worldview that emphasizes the generative, social nature of science (National Research Council [NRC], 2007). The Web of Inquiry (WOI) (http://www.webofinquiry.org) is a dynamic website where students carry out scientific inquiry projects to develop and test their theories; learn scientific language, tools, and practices of investigation; engage in self assessment; and provide feedback to peers. Two teachers and their classes participated in t...
Animal models of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by allergic skin inflammation. A hallmark of AD is dry itchy skin due, at least in part, to defects in skin genes that are important for maintaining barrier function. The pathogenesis of AD remains incompletely understood. Since the description of the Nc/Nga mouse as a spontaneously occurring model of AD, a number of other mouse models of AD have been developed. They can be categorized into three groups: (1) models induced by epicutaneous application of sensitizers; (2) transgenic mice that either overexpress or lack selective molecules; (3) mice that spontaneously develop AD-like skin lesions. These models have resulted in a better understanding of the pathogenesis of AD. This review discusses these models and emphasizes the role of mechanical skin injury and skin barrier dysfunction in eliciting allergic skin inflammation.
Measuring agility of networked organizational structures via network entropy and mutual information

While the agility of networked organizational structures is important for organizational performance, studies on how to evaluate it remain scant, probably because the difficulty in measuring network evolution. In this conceptual paper, we propose two measures - network entropy and mutual information - to characterize the agility of networked organizational structure. Rooted in graph theory and information theory, these two measures capture network evolution in a comprehensive and parsimonious way. They indicate the uncertainty (or disorder) at the network level as well as the degree distribution at the individual level. We also propose an algorithm for applying them in the scenario of adding links to a network while holding the number of nodes fixed. Both simulated and real networks are used for demonstration. Implications and areas for future research are discussed in the end.
Dissipative Adaptive Control for Strict Feedback Form Systems

This paper presents a tracking algorithm for the adaptive control of nonlinear dynamic systems represented in strict feedback form with parametric uncertainty. The construction of the stabilizing algorithm is given using Passivity-based arguments that result in an adaptive Passivity-based controller (APBC). The construction of the controller results in a chain of interconnected subsystems with the outputs and inputs of adjacent subsystems sharing a strictly passive relationship. The stability of the overall system is shown via Passivity arguments combined with an adaptive algorithm. This is in contrast with other approaches that utilize Lyapunov-based controller designs. This paper also shows a comparison with a controller designed via adaptive backstepping with tuning functions, the most popular method for controlling systems of this form. The adaptive backstepping controller (ABC) has many additional coupling terms that make its design and implementation more complex and may also result in unwanted transients. On the other hand, the APBC has a convenient decoupling property that provides a diagnostic tool for detection of non-parametric model error.
Nitrogen Utilization of Selected Cropping Systems in the U.S. Northeast: I. Dry Matter Yield, N Uptake, Apparent N Recovery, and N Use Efficiency

Excessive application of N-containing fertilizers may result in high concentrations of soil nitrate. Soil nitrate levels can be reduced with cropping systems that best utilize N. Split-plot design experiments were conducted in Connecticut from 1987 through 1990 on a Paxton fine sandy loam soil (coarse-loamy, mixed, mesic Typic Dystrochrept) to determine the effectiveness of various cropping systems in utilizing N. Orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.), red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), a double-crop system of oat (Avena sativa L.) followed by the forage brassica tyfon [Brassica rapa L. × B. pekinensis (Lour.) Rupr.], and maize (Zea mays L.) followed by a cover crop of winter rye (Secale cereale L.) received preplant N at 0, 112, 224, 336, and 448 kg ha -1 . Cropping systems were tested three times for two consecutive growing seasons, with N applied only in the first season. Dry matter yield (DMY), N uptake (NUP), apparent N recovery (NREC), and N use efficiency (NUE) were determined. Maize-rye produced the greatest DMY (18.3 to 22.8 Mg ha -1 ), followed by oat-tyfon (9.8 to 16.5 Mg ha -1 ). Highest NUP (121 to 329 kg N ha -1 ) and NREC (46.5 to 81.7 %) were obtained by oat-tyfon. The greatest NUE was produced by maize-rye and oat-tyfon at 112 kg N ha -1 . The oat-tyfon double crop provides the most effective means for preventing N loss among the systems evaluated for N rates > 112 kg ha -1
Spatially Resolved Analysis of Small Particles by Confocal Raman Microscopy: Depth Profiling and Optical Trapping

Raman microscopy is a powerful method to provide spatially resolved information about the chemical composition of materials. With confocal collection optics, the method is well suited to the analysis of small particles, either resting on a surface or optically trapped at a laser focus, where the confocal collection volume optimizes the signal from the particle. In this work, the sensitivity and spatial selectivity of detecting Raman scattering from single particles was determined as a function of particle size. An inverted confocal Raman microscope was used to acquire spectra of individual surface-bound and optically trapped polystyrene particles with sizes ranging between 200 nm and 10 μm. The particles are in contact with aqueous solution containing perchlorate ion that served as a solution-phase Raman-active probe to detect interferences from the surrounding medium. The collection volume is scanned through single particles that are attached to the surface of the coverslip, and the sensitivity and selec...
Contingent valuation techniques for assessing environmental impacts: Further evidence

Abstract This paper provides further evidence on the development and application of the iterative bidding technique used to assess environmental impacts. Three specific issues—the hypothetical nature of the survey technique, the questionnaire information structure, and the bidding procedure starting point—are examined theoretically and empirically to determine their effect on individual bid behavior. The empirical results indicate that the importance of these influences may have been overstated in earlier studies.
IR principles for content-based indexing and retrieval of functional brain images

In this paper, we explore the concept of a "library of brain images", which implies not only a repository of brain images, but also efficient search and retrieval mechanisms that are based on models derived from IR practice. As a preliminary study, we have worked with a collection of functional MRI brain images assembled in the study of several distinct cognitive tasks. We adapt several classical IR methods (inverted indexing, TFIDF and Latent Semantic Indexing(LSI)) to content-based brain image retrieval. Our results show that efficient and accurate retrieval of brain images is possible, and that representations motivated by the IR perspective are somewhat more effective than are methods based on retaining the full image information.
Formation of a high surface area, regular porous solid from the cluster of clusters, Zn4IIO[(CO)9Co3CCO2]6

Abstract The discrete molecular cluster of clusters, Zn4IIO[(CO)9Co3CCO2]6 (1), undergoes thermolysis with the sequential loss of 54 CO and 6 CO2 molecules without fusion resulting in the formation of a porous solid product. Density (fluid displacement and single crystal dimensions) and BET surface area measurements confirm the porous nature of the material. The calculated pore dimensions and regularity is corroborated by TEM of thermolyzed films supported on carbon. The formation of an α-Co phase is detectable by XRD and electron diffraction with crystallite size increasing with increasing heating temperature. The metallic nature of the cobalt environment is demonstrated by XPS of the films. Densification of the material occurs above 300°C with significant loss of surface area.
The effects of participation in teacher research on teacher efficacy

Abstract An academic year-long teacher research initiative was implemented in an alternative education school in a large school district in the southwest United States. Quantitative and qualitative methodologies were utilized to examine participatory teacher research as an active, collaborative means of professional development for teachers, including its effect on teacher efficacy and empowerment. Results indicated growth in both general and personal teaching efficacies from pre- to posttest. Collaboration was consistently related to general teaching efficacy. Perceptions of school climate were related to personal teaching efficacy at pretest. No relationship was observed between empowerment and efficacy.
Golden rule calculation of product vibronic population inversions in photodissociation and related reactions

Abstract An ultrasimple reaction dynamics model successfully treats product vibronic state distributions in photodissociation and predissociation reactions and in collision-induced electronic-to-vibrational energy transfer processes. Product vibronic population inversions are determined by intrafragment dynamics (i.e., changes in bond lengths and strengths) which occur during reaction product formation.
The Human Side of the Digital Divide: Media Experience as the Border of Communication Satisfaction with Email:

Electronic mail (email) has rapidly become one of the most prominent communication media, and a substantial amount of information is processed by it in the contemporary workplace. It is well known ...
Non-market reopening, time-consistent plans and the structure of intertemporal preferences

Abstract For the Arrow-Debreu model of pure exchange under uncertainty, those consumers are characterized who never recontract in any situation. These are also the consumers who guarantee the non-market reopening property.
Abstract data types and software validation

A data abstraction can be naturally specified using algebraic axioms. The virtue of these axioms is that they permit a representation-independent formal specification of a data type. An example is given which shows how to employ algebraic axioms at successive levels of implementation. The major thrust of the paper is twofold. First, it is shown how the use of algebraic axiomatizations can simplify the process of proving the correctness of an implementation of an abstract data type. Second, semi-automatic tools are described which can be used both to automate such proofs of correctness and to derive an immediate implementation from the axioms. This implementation allows for limited testing of programs at design time, before a conventional implementation is accomplished.
Rheological, Interfacial and Thermal Control of Polymer Adhesion. I. Isothermal Theoryf

Abstract We have developed an isothermal theory of separation in polymer-solid adhering systems. The model used is based on the (observed) drawing of filaments between a bulk polymer and a solid. In the isothermal theory, a criterion is set up, demarcating filament elongation vs. detachment of the filament base from the solid. It employs a dimensionless parameter, ω, that relates free energy of adhesion, elongational viscosity or yield strength of the polymer, and filament size, to adhesive performance. The isothermal theory can be applied directly to the separation processes that occur with pressure-sensitive adhesives. Certain observations by Aubrey and Sherriff, by Gardon and by Kaelble are explained. The validity of the demarcation is believed to extend beyond pressure-sensitive systems, to all thermoplastic adhesives and/or coatings.
Localization and quantitation of dynorphin B in the rat hippocampus

The present study measures the content of dynorphin B in the rat hippocampus, and localizes the dynorphins within the intrinsic hippocampal neuronal circuitry. The level of dynorphin B, which is representative of the prodynorphin-derived peptides, was markedly depleted by intrahippocampal injection of colchicine, which destroyed the great majority of the hippocampal granule cells and the associated mossy fiber pathway. The hippocampus contralateral to the injection demonstrated a slight, non-significant rise in dynorphin B levels after colchicine. Entorhinal cortical lesions ablating the perforant pathway input to the hippocampus did not significantly alter dynorphin B levels in the hippocampus. Unilateral fimbrial transection caused a small but significant increase in dynorphin B on the side of the lesion relative to the unlesioned side, but neither side was significantly different from control.
Circadian Biology: The Early Bird Catches the Morning Shift

Shift work misaligns the environment and the body's internal clock. A new study suggests that this 'social jet lag' can be remedied by a 'personalized schedule', an intervention that may help reduce circadian misalignment and pathologies in shift workers.
Persistent activation of NF-κB by the Tax transforming protein of HTLV-1: hijacking cellular IκB kinases

Biochemical coupling of transcription factor NF-κB to antigen and co-stimulatory receptors is required for the temporal control of T-cell proliferation. In contrast to its transitory activation during normal growth-signal transduction, NF-κB is constitutively deployed in T-cells transformed by the type 1 human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV-1). This viral/host interaction is mediated by the HTLV-1-encoded Tax protein, which has potent oncogenic properties. As reviewed here, Tax activates NF-κB primarily via a pathway leading to the chronic phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα, a cytoplasmic inhibitor of NF-κB. To access this pathway, Tax associates stably with a cytokine-inducible IκB kinase (IKK), which contains both catalytic (IKKα and IKKβ) and noncatalytic (IKKγ) subunits. Unlike their transiently induced counterparts in cytokine-treated cells, Tax-associated forms of IKKα and IKKβ are persistently activated in HTLV-1-infected T cells. Acquisition of the deregulated IKK phenotype is contingent on the presence of IKKγ, which functions as a molecular adaptor in the assembly of pathologic Tax/IκB kinase complexes. These findings highlight a key mechanistic role for IKK in the Tax/NF-κB signaling axis and define new intracellular targets for the therapeutic control of HTLV-1-associated disease.
The roles of matrix polymer crystallinity and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles in modulating material properties of photo-crosslinked composites and bone marrow stromal cell responses.

Two poly(e-caprolactone fumarate)s (PCLFs) with distinct physical properties have been employed to prepare nanocomposites with hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles via photo-crosslinking. The two PCLFs are PCLF530 and PCLF2000, named after their precursor PCL diol molecular weight of 530 and 2000 g.mol-1, respectively. Crosslinked PCLF530 is amorphous while crosslinked PCLF2000 is semi-crystalline with a melting temperature (Tm) of ∼40 °C and a crystallinity of 40%. Consequently, the rheological and mechanical properties of crosslinked PCLF2000 are significantly greater than those of crosslinked PCLF530. Structural characterizations and physical properties of both series of crosslinked PCLF/HA nanocomposites with HA compositions of 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30% have been investigated. By adding HA nanoparticles, crosslinked PCLF530/HA nanocomposites demonstrate enhanced rheological and mechanical properties while the enhancement in compressive modulus is less prominent in crosslinked PCLF2000/HA nanocomposites. In vitro cell attachment and proliferation have been performed using rat bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) and correlated with the material properties. Cell attachment and proliferation on crosslinked PCLF530/HA nanocomposite disks have been enhanced strongly with increasing the HA composition. However, surface morphology and surface chemistry such as composition, hydrophilicity, and the capability of adsorbing protein cannot be used to interpret the cell responses on different samples. Instead, the role of surface stiffness in regulating cell responses can be supported by the correlation between the change in compressive modulus and BMSC proliferation on these two series of crosslinked PCLFs and PCLF/HA nanocomposites.
A REVIEW OF THE EFFECT OF MENSTRUATION ON ACCIDENT INVOLVEMENT, SIZE OF VISUAL FIELD AND COLOR PERCEPTION

A review of the relationship between the menstrual cycle and three aspects of female industrial performance is presented. The performance aspects considered are accident involvement, size of visual...
Kinetics of choline acetyltransferases (EC 2.3.1.6) from human and other mammalian central and peripheral nervous tissues.

— Choline acetyltransferase (EC 2.3.1.6) was partially purified from human caudate nucleus and putamen, human sciatic nerve, rabbit and rat brain, and rabbit sciatic nerve. Kinetic constants were determined under the same conditions for all six extracts. Extrapolated Km values were between 6.6 and 18 μM for acetyl-CoA and between 0.4 and 1.2 mM for choline. Product inhibition patterns indicated that ChAc from both central and peripheral nervous tissues of man and the rabbit obeys a Theorell-Chance mechanism. Kinetic parameters suggest a possible influence on ACh synthesis of the in vivo concentration ratio, CoA/acetyl-CoA.
Stochastic integrators with stationary independent increments

Lipschitzian stochastic differential equations driven by a process with stationary independent increments permit a priori growth and stability estimates up to any sure time, and the solutions depend differentiably on parameters provided the Levy measure of the driving term has suitable moments.
Shell Use: An Adaptation for Emigration from the Sea by the Coconut Crab

The coconut crab. Birgus latro (L.) emigrates from the sea during the postlarval glaucothoe stage. Glaucothoes show ancestral hermit crab behavior of living in empty gastropod shells which protect them during this vulnerable time.
β-Lactoglobulin and α-Lactalbumin in Mammary Secretions During the Dry Period: Parallelism of Concentration Changes

Abstract Proteins in mammary secretions were examined during the dry period of four cows. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was used to determine relative changes in the electrophoretic profiles of whey proteins in the mammary secretions. Concentrations of β-lactoglobulin and α-lactalbumin in dry cow secretions were determined by immunoassay. Concentrations of both proteins changed in parallel during the dry period. Concentrations of β-lactoglobulin and α-lactalbumin decreased during the first 30 d of the dry period but generally remained above .1 mg/ml secretion. A transient increase in β-lactoglobulin and α-lactalbumin concentrations occurred at about 40 d after drying-off, prior to the prepartum increase.
Discriminative stimulus effects of inhaled 1,1,1-trichloroethane in mice: comparison to other hydrocarbon vapors and volatile anesthetics.

Rationale Because the toxicity of many inhalants precludes evaluation in humans, drug discrimination, an animal model of subjective effects, can be used to gain insights on their poorly understood abuse-related effects.
Apparent digestibility coefficients and nutritional value of cottonseed meal for rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

Abstract Cottonseed meals (CSM) from four different locations in the southern US were evaluated to measure apparent digestibility coefficients (ADC) of nutrients using yttrium as an inert marker. One type of CSM was used at 0% (diet 0), 5% (diet 5), 10% (diet 10), 15% (diet 15), and 20% (diet 20) inclusion rates in experimental diets (44% crude protein, 22% crude fat) to evaluate its nutritional value. A total of 450 rainbow trout (initial mean body weight 11.2±0.4 g) were randomly stocked into fifteen 150-l fiberglass tanks with 30 fish per tank and 3 tanks per diet. Fish were fed to apparent satiation 3 times a day and 7 days per week. The ADC of the four CSM groups were: dry matter, 50.8–75.5%; fat, 60.2–78.6%; crude protein, 81.6–87.9%; potassium, 98.9–99.6%; magnesium, 45.1–60.5%; sodium, 89.1–92.7%; phosphorus, 53.3–56.2%; copper, 53.3–65.6%; iron, 34.0–60.4%; manganese, 15.1–31.6%; zinc, 6.1–33.4%; essential amino acids, 80.2–96.1%; and non-essential amino acids, 62.5–94.3%. After a 6-week growth period, average weight gain of fish fed diets 0 to 20 was: 42.4, 39.1, 39.4, 34.2, and 31.8 g, respectively. Average feed conversion ratio of fish fed diets 0 to 20 was: 0.94, 0.99, 1.01, 1.12, and 1.13, respectively. Survival was >98% for fish fed all diets. Results showed that the ADC of most nutrients in CSM obtained from different locations were different. Fish fed CSM diets at the 5% or 10% inclusion rates were not significantly different compared to fish fed the fish meal control diet in terms of weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and survival ( P >0.05), indicating that CSM could be used at the 10% inclusion rate in rainbow trout feed formulations.
Impression creep of ABS polymers

The impression creep behaviour of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) polymers with various butadiene contents was investigated under punching stresses of 10–120 MPa and at temperatures from 330 to 390 K (Tg = 376 K). It was found that the creep resistance of the ABS polymers decreased with increasing butadiene content. The impression velocities in the steady-state region were analysed using a theory involving thermally activated processes. The temperature within the testing range had little effect on the activation shear strain volume, which increased with increasing butadiene content. The slope between the activation enthalpy and temperature increased gradually when the temperatures were below 353 K and then became steeper when the temperature approached the glass transition temperature. The activation enthalpy reached a maximum of 1050 kJ mol −1 at 380 K and then decreased upon further increase in temperatute. Two parallel deformation mechanisms were proposed to explain this behaviour. One is a stress activation slip process which dominates at temperatures below the glass transition temperature, and the other is a free volume assisted shear process which dominates at temperatures higher than the glass transition temperature.