cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Yield and Yield Components of Spring Oat for Various Planting Dates

(...) Spring oat cultivars Heritage, Ogle and Porter were sown during three seeding periods, 3 to 10 April (early), 24 April to 1 May (moderately late) and 16 to 22 May (late) at Wooster, OH in 1986 and 1987. Grain yield, yield components and growth duration were evaluated. Delaying seeding from the earliest to the latest date reduced yields by an average of 41% in the 1986 season and 24% in the 1987 season. In 1986 seeds per panicle decreased 24% and in 1986 and 1987, number of panicles per square foot decreased by 17 and 35%, respectively, when seeding was delayed. (...)
CCD-based thermoreflectance microscopy: principles and applications

CCD-based thermoreflectance microscopy has emerged as a high resolution, non-contact imaging technique for thermal profiling and performance and reliability analysis of numerous electronic and optoelectronic devices at the micro-scale. This thermography technique, which is based on measuring the relative change in reflectivity of the device surface as a function of change in temperature, provides high-resolution thermal images that are useful for hot spot detection and failure analysis, mapping of temperature distribution, measurement of thermal transient, optical characterization of photonic devices and measurement of thermal conductivity in thin films. In this paper we review the basic physical principle behind thermoreflectance as a thermography tool, discuss the experimental setup, resolutions achieved, signal processing procedures and calibration techniques, and review the current applications of CCD-based thermoreflectance microscopy in various devices.
The occurrence of arginine phosphate in echinoderm eggs.

Abstract 1. 1. Arginine phosphate has been identified and quantitatively measured in the unfertilized eggs of Asterias forbesii and Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis. Creatine phosphate could not be demonstrated. 2. 2. Evidence for the presence of small quantities of a compound resembling glucose 1-phosphate and of free pentose phosphate in Strongylocentrotus eggs is presented.
Properties of low-energy transitions in Dy161

Abstract The decay of Tb 161 to Dy 161 has been studied using the bent crystal spectrometer. Energies and intensities of ten gamma transitions have been determined, and the resuts have been used to derive the reduced multipole transition probabilities of the various transitions.
An experimental and trajectory study of the reaction O− + D2 → OD− + D☆

Abstract The ion—molecule reaction O − (D 2 )=OD − (D) has been studied with an ion beam, gas target scattering apparatus at relative collision energies in the range 3.6–13.2 eV. The OD − product is observed to be predominantly scattered in the forward hemisphere at all collision energies studied but to be preferentially scattered at angles different from 0° for relative collision energies through 10.2 eV. The scattering is poorly described by a simple spectator stripping model. A “trajectory-surface-leaking” calculation has been performed at various collision energies and agrees well with our measured results. Some disagreement exists between our results, both experimental and theoretical, and those of an earlier study.
A phosphate additive for poly(ethylene oxide)-based gel polymer electrolytes

Abstract The influence of an organophosphosphate additive on poly(ethylene oxide) lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide-based gel polymer electrolytes for secondary lithium battery applications is described. Tris(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl)phosphate, is compared to the well known gel-battery component, propylene carbonate, through a study of complex impedance analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and limiting oxygen index combustion analysis. The conductivities of the gels at low concentrations of tris(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl)phosphate (1.9–4.2 mol%) are higher to those of propylene carbonate-based systems with the same concentration. Despite micro-phase separation at high concentrations of tris(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl)phosphate (7.0–14.9 mol%), the conductivities remain comparable to systems that use propylene carbonate. The addition of tris(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl)phosphate to poly(ethylene oxide) gives increased fire retardance, while the addition of propylene carbonate to poly(ethylene oxide) results in increased flammability.
Aqueous relaxation reagents in nitrogen-15 NMR

Abstract Electron-nuclear relaxation times (T12′s) for 15N and 13C in natural abundance are measured for a series of amines in aqueous solution using Gd(III) complexes of a series of polyaminocarboxylate ligands as paramagnetic relaxation reagents (PARRs). The PARRs are classified by their predominant mode of interaction with the amine substrates (i.e., specific or non specific). The specific PARRs are evaluated qualitatively as NMR spin labels through their selectivity as measured by 15N Te1′s toward subtrates of different Lewis base strength and through the degree of scalar line broadening induced in the substrate resonances. Additionally, the aqueous PARRs are compared with better characterized nonaqueous PARRs, Cr(acac)3 and Gd(dpm)3. It is concluded that the diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid complex, Gd(DTPA)2−, is a satisfactory specific PARR and NMR spin label. The triethylenetetraaminehexaacetic acid complex, Gd(TTHA)3−, is shown to be a useful non specific PARR although it is a charged complex; the presence of charged groups in substrates results in weak spin label effects. Finally, the behaviour of these PARRs is contrasted with that of hydrated transition metal and lanthanide ions.
Ultrasonic scattering in polycrystals with orientation clusters of orthorhombic crystallites

Abstract Scattering-induced ultrasonic attenuation and backscattering in a polycrystalline medium with orientation clusters composed of orthotropic crystallites are studied theoretically, aiming to improve understanding of ultrasonic wave interaction with such clustered microstructures for application to the modeling of titanium alloys. Both orthorhombic crystallites and their arrangements in orientation clusters (also termed microtexture regions, MTRs) are of general ellipsoidal shape. The preferred orientation of orthotropic crystallites in the clusters is represented by a generalized Gaussian orientation distribution function with three independent texture parameters. The effective elastic properties of the clusters, which have in general orthorhombic symmetry, are determined by a volume average of elastic constants weighted by orientation distribution functions and then used to obtain the cluster-scattering-induced attenuation and backscattering in the polycrystalline medium. In the model the wave propagation direction is arbitrary relative to the ellipsoidal axes of the clusters. The contribution of crystallite-scattering-induced attenuation is estimated by the untextured attenuation coefficient factored by a texture transition function. The total attenuation and backscattering are determined by combining scattering by the clusters and crystallites. Drastic effects of clustering and the transition to unclustered polycrystals are demonstrated. Reasonable agreement is observed between the model’s prediction and measurements on two Ti-alloy samples with different crystallite clustering.
Independent evolution of squamate olfaction and vomerolfaction and correlated evolution of vomerolfaction and lingual structure

The comparative abundances of chemoreceptor cells for olfaction and vomerolfaction, the sense mediated by the vomeronasal organs, were studied in numerous squamate families, with emphasis on lizards, and compared with abundance of lingual taste buds and aspects of lingual structure likely to be related to chemosensory sampling for vomerolfaction. Abundances of vomerolfactory receptors vary greatly among, but little within squamate families. Using Felsenstein's method of independent contrasts, the abundance of vomeronasal receptors is significantly correlated with size of lingual tines, degree of lingual elongation, and condition of sampling surfaces (pallets) on the ventral side of the tongue. This indicates that correlated evolution has occurred. An intimate relationship exists between the chemosensory organ and its primary sampling device, highlighting a lingual-vomeronasal complex that functions to sample and analyze chemical stimuli from external environmental surfaces. Attributes enhancing lingual facility for chemical sampling are forking, which permits scent-trailing by tropotaxis, and possibly elongation, which may permit greater extension beyond the mouth or enhance maneuverability. Ventral lingual pallets, surfaces that directly contact substrates during sampling, are large in forms having low abundances of vomerolfactory receptors, but are reduced and are eventually lost with progressive increases in vomerolfactory receptor abundance. Pallet condition is negatively correlated with tine size and lingual elongation. Large tines appear to take over the sampling function in forms lacking pallets. Lingual taste bud abundance is negatively correlated with vomerolfactory receptor abundance, forking, elongation, and positively with pallet condition. The negative correlation between the abundance of vomerolfactory receptors and lingual taste buds may be attributable to physical incompatibility between taste buds and specialized modifications of the foretongue for vomerolfactory sampling or to loss of opportunity for lingual taste buds to function in vomerolfactory specialists that lack lingual functions such as prey prehension, manipulation, and transport and in which the tongues are ensheathed while in the mouth. The abundances of olfactory and vomeronasal chemoreceptor cells are uncorrelated using Felsenstein's method. Thus, olfaction appears to have evolved independently of vomerolfaction.
Recent increase in Chinese urbanization.

Recent evidence indicates a faster growth in level of urbanization than population in China during the last 35 years despite some years during the 1960s when urban population experienced an absolute decline. Official estimates show an increase in the level of urbanization from 10.7% (1949) to 23.5% (1983). Changing policies have led to adjustments in the definitions of city town and urban population as well as the official statistics....Regional differences in level of urbanization were identified with the highest levels found in the three national municipalities--Shanghai Beijing and Tianjin--as well as the three northeastern provinces--Heilongjiang Jilin and Liaoning. Analysis of different variables indicated level of commercialization of agriculture as measured by the per capita value of agricultural output explained best the regional level of urbanization. Continued increase in the level of urbanization in China is anticipated in step with the overall economic growth and development that has occurred with recent policy shifts and economic reforms. (EXCERPT)
High atmospheric NO x levels and multiple photochemical steady states

The rate of removal of atmospheric NO(x) compounds at different NO(x) levels is estimated using a one-dimensional photochemical model. NO(x) removal by wet deposition, surface deposition, and thermochemical processes is examined. NO(x) removal rates at different surface NO mixing ratios are calculated and the data are analyzed. It is revealed that at low NO(x) levels NO(x) is photochemically converted to HNO3 by either wet or dry deposition; however, at high NO(x) levels formation of HNO3 is inhibited due to the disappearance of tropospheric ozone and OH, and the NO(x) is removed by rainout of N2O4 and N2O5, surface deposition of NO and NO2, and direct dissolution of NO and NO2 in rainwater. The effects of NO(x) mixing ratios greater than 10 to the -7th on the ozone and climate are investigated.
The role of androgen receptor in transcriptional modulation of cannabinoid receptor type 1 gene in rat trigeminal ganglia

We have previously shown that anti-hyperalgesic effects of cannabinoid agonists under inflammatory condition are much greater in male than female, and that inflammatory cytokines upregulate cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) expression in male, but not female, trigeminal ganglia (TG) in a testosterone-dependent manner. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the testosterone-mediated regulation of peripheral CB1 expression. We hypothesized that testosterone upregulates CB1 through transcriptional modulation by androgen receptor (AR). Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, upregulated CB1 mRNA expression in TG of male rats. The cytokine-induced upregulation was prevented by the pretreatment with flutamide, a specific antagonist for AR, but not by ICI 182,780, a specific antagonist for estrogen receptor, suggesting that the effects of testosterone are not mediated by estradiol, a testosterone metabolite. The expression levels of AR and IL-1β receptors were comparable between male and female TG, suggesting that the male specific IL-1β effects on CB1 upregulation occurs downstream to these receptors. The chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed AR binding to the CB1 promoter in the rat TG. Furthermore, luciferase reporter assay revealed that AR activated the CB1 gene in response to testosterone or dihydrotestosterone treatment. These experiments provided compelling evidence that testosterone regulates CB1 gene transcription in TG through AR following cytokine stimulation. These results should provide mechanistic bases for understanding cytokine-hormone-neuron interactions in peripheral cannabinoid systems, and have important clinical implications for pain patients in whom testosterone level is naturally low, gradually declining or pharmacologically compromised.
Attending to the Role of Race/Ethnicity in Family Violence Research

Since the 1970s, researchers and public health and/or social policy communities have devoted increasing attention to family violence. Although officially reported crime figures for family violence appear to be declining, rates continue to be high in broadly defined racial and/or ethnic minority groups. More careful assessments of the potential role of race/ethnicity in family violence, and similarities and differences occurring across and within groups categorized based on race/ethnicity, are essential if adequate interventions are to be developed and utilized. This article provides suggestions on conducting better studies on family violence in the United States, particularly with respect to issues of race/ethnicity. The authors begin by considering conceptions and definitions of race/ethnicity and providing a broad definition of family violence. They then suggest issues for consideration at each stage of the research process, from reviewing previous research, to making methodological decisions, selecting samples, choosing measures, and analyzing and interpreting findings.
Disseminated thrombosis in primary antiphospholipid syndrome: MR findings

We report the MR imaging findings in a patient with primary antiphospholipid syndrome, adrenal infarction and widespread thrombosis involving abdominal, pelvic, and pulmonary vessels. This syndrome should be suspected in patients with thromboses and organ infarctions of otherwise undetermined etiology.
Characterization of supported and unsupported transition metal compounds by liquid secondary ion mass spectrometry

The positive ion liquid secondary ion mass spectra (LSIMS) of metal acetylacetonates (acacs) contain cluster ions that involve multiple metal centers. Several metal acacs form adduct ions with m-nitrobenzyl (m-NBA) alcohol used as the LSIMS support matrix. In these adduct ions, deprotonated m-NBA molecules act as bridges between metal centers. The LSIMS of a series of dirhodium carboxylates show that the electron-withdrawing strength of the carboxylate group controls whether the base peak in the mass spectrum is the molecular ion or an adduct ion formed between the molecule and a matrix molecule of sulfolane. However, no cluster ions are formed for these dirhodium compounds. Similarly, highly charged cationic compounds do not form cluster ions, nor do they form adduct ions with the LSIMS solvent. Instead, the counter ion is retained to maintain a single positive charge in the ion. LSIMS spectra of neutral and charged metallocene compounds are compared. Contrary to the assertions that these compounds cluster extensively in the gas phase, the LSIMS provide no evidence for this process. To support studies of surfaces prepared for catalytic studies, silica- and clay-supported transition metal acacs were characterized by LSIMS. Release of the supported transition metal compounds from the surface occurs during ion exchange.
Design considerations of switched reluctance motors with bipolar excitation for low torque ripple applications

Switched reluctance motors (SRMs) have been applied to many applications over the past decades due to their simple structure, low cost, and robustness. The primary disadvantage of SRMs is the relatively high torque ripple. In this paper, the machine design is considered under a two-mode bipolar excitation to achieve the optimum performance of a mutually coupled switched reluctance motor (MCSRM) for low torque ripple applications. Geometrical design equations and practical challenges are investigated. In addition, a six-slot, ten-pole (6/10) SRM with a six-phase winding configuration under the two-mode bipolar excitation is optimized by solving a multiobjective optimization problem using a quasi-Newton optimization method with considering the tradeoff between the torque ripple reduction and the efficiency improvement. The combination of the two-mode excitation scheme and corresponding optimal machine design effectively reduces the torque ripple without sacrificing the average torque produced by the MCSRM. The design considerations are verified by the finite element method (FEM)-based simulation results.
Effect of interleukin-6/interferon-β2 on glucocorticoid action in rat hepatoma cells

Reuber hepatoma cells (RHC) were treated 4 h with dexamethasone (dex), with and without simultaneous fibroblast-conditioned medium (cIL-6). A cytosol fraction, prepared in the presence of molybdate and dithiothreitol, was analyzed for [3H]dex (20 nM) binding in the presence and absence of 1 microM dex at 4 degrees C. Receptor levels declined from 76.0 fmol/mg at zero dex to 28.8 fmol/mg at 10 nM dex, and to 11.8 fmol/mg at 1 microM dex (P less than or equal to 0.05). cIL-6 plus 10 nM dex lowered binding to 18.3 fmol/mg (P less than or equal to 0.05), and treatment with cIL-6 alone diminished binding to 9.8 fmol/mg (P less than or equal to 0.05). Thus, cIL-6 diminished the number of available glucocorticoid receptors.
Academic-Hospital Partnership: Conducting a Community Health Needs Assessment as a Service Learning Project.

Objectives The purposes of this service learning project were to trial nursing student application of the Community-Based Collaborative Action Research (CBCAR) framework while conducting a community health needs assessment and to assess the effectiveness of the CBCAR framework in providing real-world learning opportunities for enhancing baccalaureate nursing students’ public health knowledge. Design and Sample In this case study analysis, the CBCAR framework linked service learning and community health needs assessment with public health nursing core competencies. Fifteen nursing students partnered with collaborative members. Measures Student observational field notes and narrative reflections were analyzed qualitatively for fidelity to the CBCAR framework and to evaluate student public health knowledge. Results Students successfully employed the CBCAR framework in collaboration with the critical access hospital and community stakeholders to design and conduct the community health needs assessment. Service learning themes were real-world solutions, professional development, community collaboration, and making a difference. Students developed skills in six of the eight domains of the Quad Council's core competencies for public health nurses. Conclusions Community-Based Collaborative Action Research facilitates collaborative partnerships and relationships throughout the research process. Students benefited by applying what they have learned from their education to a real community who lacks resources.
Epidemic surveillance using an electronic medical record: an empiric approach to performance improvement.

Backgrounds Electronic medical records (EMR) form a rich repository of information that could benefit public health. We asked how structured and free-text narrative EMR data should be combined to improve epidemic surveillance for acute respiratory infections (ARI). Methods Eight previously characterized ARI case detection algorithms (CDA) were applied to historical EMR entries to create authentic time series of daily ARI case counts (background). An epidemic model simulated influenza cases (injection). From the time of the injection, cluster-detection statistics were applied daily on paired background+injection (combined) and background-only time series. This cycle was then repeated with the injection shifted to each week of the evaluation year. We computed: a) the time from injection to the first statistical alarm uniquely found in the combined dataset (Detection Delay); b) how often alarms originated in the background-only dataset (false-alarm rate, or FAR); and c) the number of cases found within these false alarms (Caseload). For each CDA, we plotted the Detection Delay as a function of FAR or Caseload, over a broad range of alarm thresholds. Results CDAs that combined text analyses seeking ARI symptoms in clinical notes with provider-assigned diagnostic codes in order to maximize the precision rather than the sensitivity of case-detection lowered Detection Delay at any given FAR or Caseload. Conclusion An empiric approach can guide the integration of EMR data into case-detection methods that improve both the timeliness and efficiency of epidemic detection.
Aliased Propagating Mesoscale Features in Altimeter Data

Abstract Analytical expressions are presented for calculating alias wavelengths and the direction of propagation resulting from sampling propagating mesoscale wave fields by Geosat and Topex altimeters. Idealized and realistic data are used to illustrate representative examples of spatially aliased propagating wave fields.
Wafer Level Bonding of MEMS Devices Using Ceramic Lids

Wafer level bonding of MEMS devices is becoming an important packaging technique for small die. Wafer lid bonding simplifies and provides an economical assembly process. One requirement for RF MEMS devices is a hermetic lid, seal material, and sealing process for device reliability. A challenge of this packaging technique is the difference between the lid material CTE, coefficient of thermal expansion, and the silicon device wafer. We selected low temperature co-fired ceramics, LTCC, to evaluate as a potential MEMS lid material for wafer level bonding. This report covers the use of LTCC ceramic lids having CTE values of 5.5, 4.0, and 3.4ppm with thickness of 0.5 and 0.3mm. Different bonding recipes using an inert atmosphere were developed to manage warpage after bonding. Cooling ramp rates, dwell times at elevated temperatures, and lid scoring methods were investigated. A hold time at an elevated temperature was required for the ceramic lids with higher CTE values. With the low CTE ceramic lids, no hold time was required. We found successful RF MEMS wafer level bonding, WLB, can be achieved using low CTE ceramic lids.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Short-term retention, presentation rate, and number of display cycles

Previous work of Bugelski, Mayzner and Schoenberg, and Murdock has shown that if total display time is held constant, trade offs may be found between number of display cycles (i.e., the number of times a list is repeated before recall is requested) and display presentation rates. The present study extends these earlier findings by showing that for the short-term retention of a string of 20 digits, trade offs may be obtained over the range from 1 display cycle and a presentation rate of 8 sec. per digit to 16 display cycles and a presentation rate of ½ sec. per digit. A breakdown does apparently occur with 32 display cycles and a presentation rate of ¼ sec. per digit, where clear input registration is apparently degraded by the rapidly changing display.
Elevated AST or ALT to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: accurate predictor of disease prevalence?

Elevated AST or ALT to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: accurate predictor of disease prevalence?
Lifeact-mEGFP reveals a dynamic apical F-actin network in tip growing plant cells.

Background Actin is essential for tip growth in plants. However, imaging actin in live plant cells has heretofore presented challenges. In previous studies, fluorescent probes derived from actin-binding proteins often alter growth, cause actin bundling and fail to resolve actin microfilaments. Methodology/Principal Findings In this report we use Lifeact-mEGFP, an actin probe that does not affect the dynamics of actin, to visualize actin in the moss Physcomitrella patens and pollen tubes from Lilium formosanum and Nicotiana tobaccum. Lifeact-mEGFP robustly labels actin microfilaments, particularly in the apex, in both moss protonemata and pollen tubes. Lifeact-mEGFP also labels filamentous actin structures in other moss cell types, including cells of the gametophore. Conclusions/Significance Lifeact-mEGFP, when expressed at optimal levels does not alter moss protonemal or pollen tube growth. We suggest that Lifeact-mEGFP represents an exciting new versatile probe for further studies of actin's role in tip growing plant cells.
Automatically enumerating image data clusters using pixel co-density

Typical automatic clustering methods struggle to determine the correct number of clusters to properly characterize the data. To estimate the number of clusters in a spectral image data cloud explicitly from the data structure, the pairwise relationships between pixels in the n-dimensional spectral space are exploited. By plotting the average ith co-density between pixels and neighbors, a monotonically increasing function will emerge that characterizes the clusters in the data. Large upward steps in the average neighbor distance function represent the well-grouped clusters in the data. This process can accurately identify the number of clusters in a wide variety of image data automatically. © (2012) COPYRIGHT Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Completely Laparoscopic Subtotal Pancreatectomy with Splenic Artery Preservation

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy has emerged as an attractive minimally invasive alternative for selected patients. Although technically challenging, distal pancreatectomy with splenic artery preservation has consistently been correlated with reduced blood loss and perioperative morbidity in multiple studies. Herein presented is our technique for completely laparoscopic (non-hand-assisted) subtotal pancreatectomy with splenic artery preservation (LSP-SAP). An 87-year-old woman with an incidentally identified 3-cm cystic lesion in the pancreatic body–tail interface underwent EUS, which supported side-branch intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm. The patient subsequently underwent laparoscopic resection. A completely laparoscopic procedure was performed using a four-trochar technique. The tail and body of the pancreas were dissected off of the retroperitoneum along the embryologic plane and separated from the colonic splenic flexure. Next, the splenic artery was dissected, isolated, and preserved, while the splenic vein was dissected off the ventral pancreas up to the level of the splenic–portal vein confluence. The technique employed a bipolar cutter-sealing device for dissection and hemostasis. Pancreatic parenchymal transection was performed with a standard vascular load endomechanical stapling device. Total procedure time was 210 min, and the estimated blood loss was 200 mL. Postoperatively, the patient was admitted, advanced to regular diet the next day, and discharged home on postoperative day 3. The pathological review of the specimen revealed high-grade dysplasia with a non-invasive malignant component, classified as intraductal carcinoma. Foci of PanIN 1–3 were identified with no high grade dysplasia at the surgical margin. Five lymph nodes were included in the specimen and were negative for malignancy. Completely LSP-SAP can be safely performed in selected patients. This procedure may be an optimal alternative to open surgery.
Extraction of the pi NN coupling constant from NN scattering data.

We reexamine Chew's method for extracting the \ensuremath{\pi}NN coupling constant from np differential cross section measurements. Values for this coupling are extracted below 350 MeV, in the potential model region, and up to 1 GeV. The analyses to 1 GeV have utilized 55 data sets. We compare these results to those obtained via ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\chi}}}^{2}$ mapping techniques. We find that these two methods give consistent results which are in agreement with previous Nijmegen determinations.
Preparation of Indole Extracts from Plants for Gas Chromatography and Spectrophotofluorometry

Indole compounds have demanded increasing attention from plant physiologists in recent years since it has become evident that most naturally occurring plant auxins and their precursors are indolic (4). A recent review by Stowe (13) of the simple indoles found in plants clearly demonstrates that the investigator must be prepared to work with a relatively large number of these substances which are diverse in their molecular structure. Critical evaluation of naturally occurring plant auxins has been hampered because of the minute concentrations in which they nearly always occur. These difficulties are compounded by the fact that many indole derivatives exhibit some degree of lability with most conventional laboratory techniques, while a few are degraded under even the mildest conditions that can be usefully employed. Bioassays have generally been used to overcome the problem of low concentration, but bioassays at best are tedious and time consuming, and are probably seldom better than semi-quantitative. Furthermore, bioassays respond only to certain indoles, whereas other indoles without biological activity may be at least as important to a particular problem. Spectrophotofluorometry is a highly sensitive technique that can quantitatively detect nanogram (10-9g) amounts of many fluorescing substances (2). Stowe and Schilke (14) have recently shown that a number of simple indoles can be detected by this method in submicrogram amounts. Since activation and fluorescence spectra generally show broad rather than sharp peaks, other fluorescing substances can interfere with an analysis, even though the activation and fluorescence maxima may not be identical with that of the compound the investigator wishes to measure. Still other compounds may quench fluorescence. For successful spectrophotofluorometry of a substance it is generally necessary for a fairly high level of purification to be effected. A promising way to obtain much of the necessary purification of indoles prior to spectrophotofluorometry is gas-liquid chromatography (14). A number of acidic and neutral indoles have been assayed with this technique. However, preliminary purification of the extract is generally necessary before gas chromatography can be successfully applied. The major part of this paper will be concerned with methods for preparing plant extracts for gas chromatography and spectrophotofluorometry. It will then be shown that the method has been successfully applied to 2 different plant extracts to show the presence of 2 well known indoles whose existence other investigators have previously established by classical methods.
Effect of pCMBS on anion transport in human red cell membranes

The kinetics of binding of the mercurial sulfhydryl reagent, pCMVS (p-chloromercuribenzene sulfonate), to the extracellular site(s) at which pCMBS inhibits water and urea tranport across the human red cell membrane, have previously been characterized. To determine whether pCMBS binding alters Cl− transport, we measured Cl−/NO3− exchange by fluorescence enhancement, using the dye SPQ (6-methoxy-N-(3-sulfopropyl)quinolinium). An essentially instantaneous extracellular phase of pCMBS inhibition is followed by a much slower intracellular phase. correlated with pCMBS permeation. We attribute the instantaneous phase to competitive inhibition of Cl− binding to band 3 by the pCMBS anion. The ID50 of 2.0 ± 0.1 mM agrees with other organic sulfonates, byt is very much greater than that of pCMBS inhibition of urea and water transport, showing that pCMBS reaction with water and urea transport inhibition sites has no effect on anion exchange. The intracelllular inhibition by 1 mM pCMBS (1 h) is apparently non-competitive with Ki = 5.5 ± 6.3 mM, presumably an allosteric effect of pCMBS binding to an intracellular band 3-related sulfhydryl group. After N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) treatment to block these band 3 sulfhydryl groups, there is apparent non-competitive inhibition with Ki = 2.1 ± 1.2 mM, which suggests that pCMBS reacts with one of the NEM-insensitive sulfhydryl groups on a protein that links band 3 to cytoskeleton, perhaps ankyrin or bands 4.1 and 4.2.
Critical Scales Govern the Mechanical Fragmentation Mechanisms of Biomolecular Assemblies

Fragmentation mechanisms of peptide assemblies under shock deformation are studied using molecular dynamics simulations and are found to depend strongly on the relative magnitude of the shock front radius to the fibril length and the ratio of the impact energy to the fibril cohesive energy. The competition between size scaling of curvature and impact energy leads to a mechanism change at a critical impact velocity, developing a stark contrast in the size scaling of fragmentation at low and high strain rates. We show that the fragmentation mechanisms can be classified on the basis of the length and time scales of deformation and relaxation to provide new insight into experimental observations.
β-Core chemical and clinical properties

Abstract β-Core is the most abundant hCG-related molecule in pregnancy urine. The structure of β-core as well as aspects of its metabolic clearance suggest that β-core is a metabolic fragment of the hCG-β subunit. The occurrence of β-core in the urine of patients with a broad spectrum of malignancies imparts an important role to β-core as a tumor marker. The recent development of antisera with enhanced specificity and sensitivity for β-core will facilitate further studies on the clinical significance of this molecule.
Collective excitations in atoms

Abstract Shape oscillations of neutral and ionized atoms about the Thomas-Fermi ground state are investigated. Bloch's linearized hydrodynamic equations are derived from a variational principle which permits an estimate of the location of the lowest lying excitations of any multipolarity.
Framework for identifying recommended rules and DFM scoring model to improve manufacturability of sub-20nm layout design

This paper addresses the framework for building critical recommended rules and a methodology for devising scoring models using simulation or silicon data. Recommended rules need to be applied to critical layout configurations (edge or polygon based geometric relations), which can cause yield issues depending on layout context and process variability. Determining of critical recommended rules is the first step for this framework. Based on process specifications and design rule calculations, recommended rules are characterized by evaluating the manufacturability response to improvements in a layout-dependent parameter. This study is applied to critical 20nm recommended rules. In order to enable the scoring of layouts, this paper also discusses a CAD framework involved in supporting use-models for improving the DFM-compliance of a physical design.© (2012) COPYRIGHT Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Microscope Metrology of Reflective Light Valves

A polarizing microscope is used to measure the electro-optic properties of nematic light valves on a spatial, spectral, and time-resolved basis. Under the quiescent uniform twist approximation(8), the response of the liquid crystal (LC) layer can be broadly characterized by a universal polarization conversion efficiency (PCE) function (essentially the reflectivity between crossed polarizers), whose primary independent variable is the unified parameter Δn d/λ. Spectral resolution capability in the polarizing microscope thus allows measurement of light valve PCE as a function of λ; the PCE response in turn largely determines projector dark state neutrality and color balance across gray scale. Emphasizing the case of a normally black 45° TN reflective (RTN) light valve, we use colorimetric analysis of PCE parameter-space to select an optimal cell gap, based on a criterion of near-achromatic black state. Once black state is achromatized, the non-constant slope of the PCE curve implies a characteristic residual variation in CIE chromaticity as gray level is changed (for non-monochromatic illumination). Spectral resolution allows the microscope to measure spatial variations in Δn d (and hence in PCE response). Variations in Δn d may arise from nonuniformity in either cell gap or pretilt. These may be distinguished by using the microscope to make a spatially resolved measurement of response time.
A selective and versatile low level beta-, X-, and gamma-ray detector assembly.

Abstract By incorporating various features of the well known Geiger, proportional and scintillation counting in a single system, a low level detector for measurement of β ± -, X- and γ-radiation has been developed. The system can be operated in five different modes to suit the decay scheme of the radionuclide under study. It is specially suited for an unambiguous identification of radionuclides which emit β/X rays in coincidence with γ radiation where a background of the order of 10 −3 cpm has been achieved. To illustrate the merit of this system the case of radioactives in meteorites is considered where, when coincidence measurements are possible, the sample requirement reduces significantly over the counting devices now in practice. Specific cases are discussed which show that about a dozen useful radionuclides can be measured in a stone meteorite sample of less than 30 g including 22 Na and 26 Al in 5 g, and 53 Mn in mg quantities. The limited data available so far permit us to evaluate the contribution some of the sources to the residual background of the detector.
An equation for the replacement value of agroforestry

This article examines some of the existing analytical tools which quantify both the ecological and economic aspects of intercropping decisions. The characteristics of tree crops are evaluated to determine how a specific tool, the replacement value of intercropping (RVI), could be modified to better interpret agroforestry improvements to bush fallow farming systems. The modified equation captures some of the potential production improvements associated with agroforestry by accounting for the fraction of time that a field is actually in production over the long run. The result is an improved estimate of the average annual difference between a tree/crop polyculture and a monoculture system which employs fallows.
International Response to Democratic Crisisin the Americas, 1990–2005

This article analyses international responses to threats to democracy in Latin America and the Caribbean between 1990 and 2005 from five domestic sources: traditional military coup attempt; incumbent leaders; intra-governmental clashes between branches of government; armed non-state actors; and unarmed non-state actors including societal mass protests and blockades. International responses include diplomatic, proactive incentives, sanctions and disincentives, and military force and peacekeeping. International capacity to respond has improved over this time period with the proliferation of actors and tools. Nevertheless, the two newest sources of democratic crisis pose particular challenges: intra-governmental disputes and crises emanating from non-state actors. In the first, international actors are reluctant to intervene in constitutional disputes. In the second, international actors tend to react after a crisis has begun rather than help prevent it. Faced with the premature removal of a president in the...
Effect of sample-response requirement on matching-to-sample accuracy of exceptional children.

Utah State Universiry Summary.-10 exceptional children ages 3 to 16 yr. matched-tesample with either one response (single sample-response condition) or 5 or 10 responses (multiple sample-response condition) required on the sample to produce the comparison stimuli. Accuracy increased going from the single to the multiple sample-response condition and decreased when the multiple sample-response requirement was changed to a single sample response. Acquisition of the rask by two of the subjects was facilitated by the increased sample-response requirement. In matching-to-sample, the sample or standard stimulus is usually presented alone and the subject makes an observing response to it. This observing response to the sample produces the comparison stimuli. One of these comparison stimuli is typically identical to the sample and a response to it is reinforced, i.e., identity matching. Variations on these basic operations manipulate the time between the observing response and the appearance of the comparison stimuli, e.g., simultaneous, zero-delay, delayed matching, and the particular relationship (e.g., identity, non-identity) between sample and comparison stimuli that will be reinforced (e.g., Cumming & Berryman, 1965). Matching-tosample is a conditional discrimination because the comparison stimulus that is correct on any trial is dependent on which stimulus is the sample on that same trial. Matching-to-sample is frequently employed ss a tool in diagnostic and rehabilitative procedures (e.g., Goldstein & Scheerer, 1941; Reese, 1972; Sherman, 1971; Sidman, Stoddard, & Mohr, 1968; Terman, 1917). Yet while there has been considerable research into the behavior of animals specific to acquisition and accuracy on matching-to-sample (e.g., Cumming & Berryman, 1965; D'Amaco, 1973; Ferster & Hammer, 1966; Weinstein, 1945) there has been less work with humans. One aspect of the animal research has dealt with the acquisition of matching-to-sample by pigeons as a function of the number of observing responses required to the sample (Sacks, Karnil, & Ma&, 1972). In the usual matching task, the observing response is a single response to the sample. That one sample response produces the comparison stimuli and asymptotic performance may take
Peptide accumulation during growth of peptidase deficient mutants

Abstract Mutant strains of Salmonella typhimurium simultaneously lacking peptidases N, A, B and D accumulate a heterogeneous mixture of small, trichloroacetic acid-soluble peptides during growth in minimal medium. Approximately 20% of the labelled leucine supplied to a growing culture of the mutant strain is converted to peptides. These peptides accumulate inside the cells before being released into the growth medium. Although the origin of these peptides has not been established, there are several processes that might contribute peptides to this pool. These include (1) turnover of signal sequences, (2) turnover of attenuator peptides, and (3) degradation of prematurely terminated proteins. These results indicate that the same family of peptidases that catabolizes exogenously supplied peptides and functions in carbon-starvation-induced protein turnover also hydrolyzes peptides generated during normal exponential growth.
Changes in the Vitamin B-6 Content in Potatoes During Storage

The nature of the repeatedly reported increase of vitamin B-6 in Russet Burbank potatoes stored for 30 days and 9 months was investigated. Potatoes contained pyridoxine, pyridoxamine, pyridoxal phosphate, and a pyridoxine glucoside. While pyridoxamine and pyridoxal phosphate concentrations remained unchanged, there was a sharp increase in pyridoxine glucoside during storage indicating a possible synthesis of vitamin B-6 during storage. In general, good agreement existed between the data generated by microbial analysis and those obtained by the HPLC method.
The mating system of a homothallic fission yeast

Exposed to iodine vapors, colonies of a homothallic strain of Schizosaccharomyces pombe were of two classes: P, with many black streaks, and d, with scarcely any. Contiguous P and d colonies, but not contiguous P colonies nor contiguous d colonies, gave the iodine junction reaction, a black line along the common boundary of two colonies. Neither class could be purified. On replating, a P colony gave rise to a P plate, which contained mostly P but also d colonies; a d colony gave rise to a d plate, which contained mostly d but also P colonies. The P/d colony ratio of a fresh isolate (if isolated as a P colony) was very high or (if isolated as a d conoly) very low. It fell, if initially high, or rose, if initially low, on subsequent replatings of the same isolate. Maintained for many generations, an isolate attained a fairly constant P/d colony ratio that was less than unity. Tetrad analysis showed 2:2 segregation of the classes. We conclude that a homothallic clone is a mixture of two types of cells: P, which gives rise to a P colony, and d, to a d colony. The two types are sexually complementary and interconvertible. The rate of intercoversion of P to d exceeds that of d to P by a factor of about 2.
Glucose Regulates Mitochondrial Motility via Milton Modification by O-GlcNAc Transferase

Cells allocate substantial resources toward monitoring levels of nutrients that can be used for ATP generation by mitochondria. Among the many specialized cell types, neurons are particularly dependent on mitochondria due to their complex morphology and regional energy needs. Here, we report a molecular mechanism by which nutrient availability in the form of extracellular glucose and the enzyme O-GlcNAc Transferase (OGT), whose activity depends on glucose availability, regulates mitochondrial motility in neurons. Activation of OGT diminishes mitochondrial motility. We establish the mitochondrial motor-adaptor protein Milton as a required substrate for OGT to arrest mitochondrial motility by mapping and mutating the key O-GlcNAcylated serine residues. We find that the GlcNAcylation state of Milton is altered by extracellular glucose and that OGT alters mitochondrial motility in vivo. Our findings suggest that, by dynamically regulating Milton GlcNAcylation, OGT tailors mitochondrial dynamics in neurons based on nutrient availability.
Dependence of rat vertex auditory evoked potentials on central muscarinic receptor activation.

Abstract Auditory evoked potentials (AEPs) were recorded epidurally at vertex in the freely moving rat, yielding the prominent components P18 and N40 from the averaged waveform. Both components were severely attenuated at tone presentation rates faster than 1 Hz. Dependence of the vertex AEP on central cholinergic activation was assessed by comparing the effects of subcutaneous injections of the muscarinic antagonist scopolamine (0.1 – 1.0 mg/kg) to methyl-scopolamine (0.5, 1.0 mg/kg) to test for peripheral effects. Scopolamine produced a significant decrease in amplitude for both the P18 and N40 components in overall tests. N40 amplitude also showed a significant decrease at each dose of scopolamine, and the magnitude of the amplitude decrement was dose dependent. At 23 h after scopolamine, only N40 amplitude remained significantly depressed. There were no effects of injection of saline, or of methyl-scopolamine. These results confirm that middle-latency vertex AEPs in the rat are attenuated by central muscarinic receptor blockade, consistent with previous findings in cats.
Public Policy Implications of Changing Student Attendance Patterns.

Public policy is likely to remain more reactive than proactive, and more iterative than creative, in responding to the needs and concerns of students with new attendance patterns. Swirling students will likely swirl even more among institutions, but it will take some time before our policies catch up.