cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes with Tethered Pyrenes: Synthesis and Photophysical Properties

Single-walled (SWNTs) and multiple-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were functionalized with dendra of tethered pyrene species, where the tether length was varied. These functionalized carbon nanotube samples are soluble in common organic solvents, making it possible to characterize the samples and to investigate and compare the photophysical properties of the tethered pyrene moieties in homogeneous solution. In general, the pyrene monomer excited state is significantly quenched by two competing processes of “intramolecular” excimer formation and energy transfer to the nanotube. The excimer formation is dynamic in nature, and the excimer emission is also quenched by the energy transfer, contributing to the overall low fluorescence quantum yields and rapid fluorescence decays. There are effects of the tether length on photoexcited-state properties of the pyrene species according to a comparison of the results obtained in solution vs in solid-state polymer matrix. The structurally more flexible environment f...
Development of inferences over elementary-school grades: IV. Affective bias as a determinant of inferences

The effect of affective bias on the inferences made by 239 children in Grades 1–8 was examined. Children heard brief stories that presented the main character in a positive or negative light. “Yes” responses to test items indicated an inference of a negative outcome for the main character from ambiguous information. An unintended outcome was that preexisting biases about the characters had a major impact on children’s inferential responses. A manipulation involving a within-story bias influenced children’s inferring a negative outcome in the expected direction only when the negative characterization of the story was concordant with a preexisting bias in regard to the character. Some grade differences were apparent, but were not developmentally systematic.
A surface‐towed vector magnetometer

[1] We have tested the feasibility of using a commercial motion sensor as a vector magnetometer that can be towed at normal survey speeds behind a research vessel. In contrast to previous studies using a shipboard mounted vector magnetometer, the towed system is essentially unaffected by the magnetization of the towing vessel. Results from a test deployment compare favorably with an earlier vector aeromagnetic survey, indicating that the towed instrument can resolve horizontal and vertical anomalies with amplitudes >30–50 nT. This instrument should be particularly useful in equatorial regions, where the vector anomalies are substantially greater than the corresponding total field anomalies.
Needed research in sedimentation

All phases of sedimentation research are greatly in need of expanded research. The growing small watershed program will require greater concentration on fundamental mechanics of sedimentation processes rather than generalities. Particular attention is suggested for research in channel stability and new measurement techniques.
Identification of a group of Ser-Pro motif hormone-inducible phosphorylation sites in the human progesterone receptor.

The human progesterone receptor (PR) is a member of the steroid/thyroid hormone superfamily of nuclear receptors. The receptor is expressed as two forms, PR-B and the shorter PR-A, which lacks the NH2-terminal 164 amino acids of PR-B; whereas PR-B seems to be predominantly a transcriptional activator, PR-A also functions as a repressor. Our previous studies of PR expressed in T47D breast cancer cells have shown that PR is a phosphoprotein whose phosphorylation is enhanced in response to hormone. There is an initial rapid (minutes) increase in phosphorylation followed by a slower, less substantial increase, which results in decreased mobility of the receptor on sodium dodecyl sulfate gels. We now report the identification of three phosphorylation sites, which are predominantly phosphorylated during the later phase of the response to hormone. These sites, Ser102, Ser294, and Ser345, are all found in Ser-Pro consensus sequences. Whereas Ser294 and Ser345 are common to PR-A and PR-B, Ser102 is unique to PR-B....
Finding our bearings in the trade of American black bear (Ursus Americanus) parts: Are we on a course for disaster?

Abstract In order to conserve the populations of American black bears (Ursus americanus) policy—makers must begin to understand the driving forces behind, and the links between, the trade in American black bear parts and mortality in American black bear populations. A great deal has been written on the growing trade in bear parts along with the various attempts being made to slow the trade in wild bear parts. The question remains, however, as to what effect this growing trade is having on American black bear populations. By reviewing the literature regarding the history of the exploitation of bears along with the attitudes underlying these forms of utilization, this article will explain why attempts to decrease the supply and demand for wild parts can only work in the long run and may, in fact, be misguided if relied upon as the primary short run solution to conserve American black bear populations.
Morphological and metabolic responses to starvation by the dissimilatory metal-reducing bacterium Shewanella alga bry

The response of the dissimilatory metal-reducing bacterium Shewanella alga BrY to carbon and nitrogen starvation was examined. Starvation resulted in a gradual decrease in the mean cell volume from 0.48 to 0.2 micron 3 and a dramatic decrease in Fe(III) reductase activity. Growth of starved cultures was initiated with O2, ferric oxyhydroxide, Co(III)-EDTA, or Fe(III)-bearing subsurface materials as the sole electron acceptor. Microbially reduced subsurface materials reduced CrO(4)2-. Starvation of dissimilatory metal-reducing bacteria may provide a means of delivering this metabolism to contaminated subsurface environments for in situ bioremediation.
Adjustment preferences to groundwater depletion in the American high plains

Abstract This paper explores the adjustments that residents in one part of the High Plains prefer in coping with the depletion of the Ogallala aquifer. The authors identify 31 possible adjustment policies and report on public preferences, examining differences among socioeconomic groups and also the preferred governmental agencies to administer specific programs. Adjustments involving improved water use efficiency were most favored; those entailing financial incentives were least liked. The local groundwater management district was the preferred agency overall. Most significant differences in preference were between those in agribusiness and those outside agriculture.
Structure of Bismuth Telluride Nanowire Arrays Fabricated by Electrodeposition into Porous Anodic Alumina Templates

Arrays of bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) nanowires with diameters of ∼25, ∼50, and ∼75 nm have been produced by electrochemical deposition into porous anodic alumina templates. Scanning electron microscopy confirms that the nanowire arrays are dense with a narrow distribution of nanowire diameters. The structure of the nanowires was assessed immediately after deposition, after annealing to ∼80% of the melting point, and after melting/recrystallization. As determined by XRD analysis, there is strong fiber texture in the arrays that depends on both the nanowire diameter and the postdeposition processing conditions. Bright-field/dark-field imaging and diffraction in the transmission electron microscope reveal that the as-deposited nanowires are polycrystalline with a bamboo-type grain structure that does not change significantly upon annealing, and a similar grain structure is obtained after melting and resolidification.
Google-Wide Profiling: A Continuous Profiling Infrastructure for Data Centers

Google-Wide Profiling (GWP), a continuous profiling infrastructure for data centers, provides performance insights for cloud applications. With negligible overhead, GWP provides stable, accurate profiles and a datacenter-scale tool for traditional performance analyses. Furthermore, GWP introduces novel applications of its profiles, such as application-platform affinity measurements and identification of platform-specific, microarchitectural peculiarities.
Electrical burn injuries of workers using portable aluminium ladders near overhead power lines

The use of aluminium ladders around high voltage power lines has resulted in a significant number of electrical injuries and electrocutions. Workers often misjudge wire distances or lose control of fully extended ladders, thereby exposing themselves to electrocution hazard. High-voltage electrical burns of two workers using an aluminium ladder that contacted a high voltage power line are reported. The circumstances surrounding the injury, the clinical management of the case, and the methods of prevention are presented and discussed.
Use of an open-flow helium cryostat for macromolecular cryocrystallography

A helium cryostat developed at the University of Toledo has recently been described by Hardie, Kirschbaum, Martin & Pinkerton [J. Appl. Cryst. (1998), 31, 815–817]. This helium cooling system has now been tested on macromolecules, using crystals of chicken egg lysozyme and sperm whale myoglobin. Phase changes in terbium vanadate crystals indicate that temperatures delivered by the cryostat were less than 33 K. Unit-cell contraction in the protein crystals is consistent with the previously reported He data. Large crystals approaching suitability for neutron diffraction studies were successfully flash-cooled and a large crystal of lysozyme was rescued for data collection after undergoing a cycle of macro­molecular crystal annealing (MCA) following poor flash-cooling. Comparison of diffraction data from sperm whale myoglobin crystals collected in both He and N2 showed a 23% lower overall B factor for the He data. The results of these studies show that this device might be an especially useful adjunct both for neutron diffraction studies and at high-intensity synchrotron X-ray sources, in addition to its use in the standard macromolecular crystallography laboratory.
“Under the subtle wreath”: Louise Bogan, Felicia Hemans, and Petrarchan Poetics

Louise Bogan joked that in a former life she had been “Felicia Hemans.” A lush Romantic and an austere Modernist, Hemans and Bogan appear polar opposites, yet these learned women poets shared a laureate poetics of Love and Fame. Hemans alludes directly to Petrarch’s laureate triumph in “The Magic Glass”; in poetry and prose she portrays the difficult laureateships of Sappho and Tasso. Both Hemans and Bogan seemed laureates to their contemporaries and successors, yet both found laurels an ambiguous donnee, Bogan a “burden” among flowers, Hemans a fiery crown for the likes of “the Bride of the Greek Isle.” Petrarch gained his laurels in a formal triumph at Rome, a scene mandating abjuration and entailing defeat. His I trionfi enacted triumph and its reversals in a sequence mounting from Love to Chastity, Death, Fame, Time, and Eternity. Bogan’s laurels were similarly fugual, a “subtle wreath” combining “the line of feeling” of “sentimental” women’s poetry with “the line of thought” in masculine Metaphysical Modernism. The poems of Bogan and Hemans that most vex critics – Bogan’s life-denying “Henceforth, from the Mind,” Hemans’s fame-abjuring “Corinne at the Capitol” – read differently as Petrarchan triumphs, that is, as abjurations signaling fresh triumphs to come.
Current Management of Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis

This article reviews the clinical features and emphasises the treatment of polymyositis and dermatomyositis. Pharmacological intervention with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents is discussed. In addition, strategies regarding the initiation and subsequent tapering of these drugs are provided, and an algorithmic approach to the management of myositis is provided. Therapeutic modalities for patients with refractory disease are considered, and the potential adverse effects of such treatment are discussed. Since patients with myositis often have disease-related complaints other than muscle weakness, a practical treatment approach for these problems is also outlined.
Treating the All-Nighter Syndrome: Increased Student Comprehension Through an Interactive In-Class Approach

Results are presented for an educational experiment in a structures and dynamics lab course in aerospace engineering. The experiment was designed to increase the in-class interaction between instructor and student, making a more efficient use of class time by increasing students' understanding of the course material. Several techniques were employed, but of chief importance were innovations such as preparatory lab exercises, pretesting, and questioning strategies within the lecture context.
Complementarity in Subject Metadata in Large-Scale Digital Libraries: A Comparative Analysis

Provision of high-quality subject metadata is crucial for organizing adequate subject access to rich content aggregated by digital libraries. A number of large-scale digital libraries worldwide are now generating subject metadata to describe not only individual objects but entire digital collections as an integral whole. However, little research to date has been conducted to empirically evaluate the quality of this collection-level subject metadata. The study presented in this article compares free-text and controlled-vocabulary collection-level subject metadata in three large-scale cultural heritage digital libraries in the United States and the European Union. As revealed by this study, the emerging best practices for creating rich collection-level subject metadata includes describing a collection's subject matter with mutually complementary data values in controlled-vocabulary and free-text subject metadata elements. Three kinds of complementarity were observed in this study: one-way complementarity, t...
Motor lateralization is characterized by a serial hybrid control scheme

Abstract Our previous studies of limb coordination in healthy right- and left-handers led to the development of a theoretical model of motor lateralization, dynamic dominance, which was recently supported by studies in patients with unilateral stroke. One of our most robust findings was on single-joint movements in young healthy subjects [ Sainburg and Schaefer (2004) J Neurophysiol 92:1374–1383]. In this study, subjects made elbow joint reaching movements toward four targets of different amplitudes with each arm. Although both arms achieved equivalent task performance, each did so through different strategies. The dominant arm strategy scaled peak acceleration with peak velocity and movement extent, while the nondominant strategy adjusted acceleration duration to achieve the different velocities and distances. We now propose that these observed interlimb differences can be explained using a serial hybrid controller in which movements are initiated using predictive control and terminated using impedance control. Further, we propose that the two arms should differ in the relative time that control switches from the predictive to the impedance mechanisms. We present a mathematical formulation of our hybrid controller and then test the plausibility of this control paradigm by investigating how well our model can explain interlimb differences in experimental data. Our findings confirm that the model predicts early shifts between controllers for left arm movements, which rely on impedance control mechanisms, and late shifts for right arm movements, which rely on predictive control mechanisms. This is the first computational model of motor lateralization and is consistent with our theoretical model that emerged from empirical findings. It represents a first step in consolidating our theoretical understanding of motor lateralization into an operational model of control.
The relationship of MPDATA to other high‐resolution methods

High-resolution methods have produced the ability to conduct large eddy simulations without the benefit of an explicit subgrid model. This capability is known as implicit large eddy simulation (ILES). A number of high-resolution methods have been shown to have this property. There are notable exceptions where high-resolution method do not work as ILES, particularly methods that have a leading (h2) dissipative term. On the other hand, MPDATA is an effective ILES method with a leading (h2) dissipative term. This dichotomy has played a key role in the discovery of the key role of conservation or control volume form in producing ILES results. In the process of this analysis, I describe a variant of the method leading to a useful alternative form of sign-preserving limiters. This form is proposed as an extension of the basic MPDATA methodology allowing some flexibility in the choice of effective high-order methods. This multistage version of the algorithm removes the leading order nonlinear dissipative error. I rediscover the recursive form of the MPDATA iteration through modified equation analysis (MEA). Finally, returning to the original purpose of the analysis, I describe how the different principles used in MPDATA have been an important contributor to the recent theoretical understanding of ILES. MPDATA is compared with monotone high-resolution methods both analytically and computationally. The numerical comparison focuses on the validation of ILES methods for high Reynolds number decaying isotropic turbulence. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heparin-associated thrombocytopenia and immunoglobulin therapy.

Excerpt To the Editor:The report by Frame and associates (1) claims to "report the first case of severe heparin-associated thrombocytopenia complicated by intestinal bleeding and progressive thromb...
Process synthesis of hybrid coal, biomass, and natural gas to liquids via Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, ZSM-5 catalytic conversion, methanol synthesis, methanol-to-gasoline, and methanol-to-olefins/distillate technologies

Abstract Several technologies for synthesis gas (syngas) refining are introduced into a thermochemical based superstructure that will convert biomass, coal, and natural gas to liquid transportation fuels using Fischer–Tropsch (FT) synthesis or methanol synthesis. The FT effluent can be (i) refined into gasoline, diesel, and kerosene or (ii) catalytically converted to gasoline and distillate over a ZSM-5 zeolite. Methanol can be converted using ZSM-5 (i) directly to gasoline or to (ii) distillate via olefin intermediates. A mixed-integer nonlinear optimization model that includes simultaneous heat, power, and water integration is solved to global optimality to determine the process topologies that will produce the liquid fuels at the lowest cost. Twenty-four case studies consisting of different (a) liquid fuel combinations, (b) refinery capacities, and (c) superstructure possibilities are analyzed to identify important process topological differences and their effect on the overall system cost, the process material/energy balances, and the well-to-wheel greenhouse gas emissions.
Diglycerol‐Based Polyesters: Melt Polymerization with Hydrophobic Anhydrides

The melt polymerization of diglycerol with bicyclic anhydride monomers derived from a naturally occurring monoterpene provides an avenue for polyesters with a high degree of sustainability. The hydrophobic anhydrides are synthesized at ambient temperature via a solvent-free Diels-Alder reaction of α-phellandrene with maleic anhydride. Subsequent melt polymerizations with tetra-functional diglycerol are effective under a range of [diglycerol]/[anhydride] ratios. The hydrophobicity of α-phellandrene directly impacts the swelling behavior of the resulting polyesters. The low E factors ( 75%), ambient temperature monomer synthesis, and polymer degradability represent key factors in the design of these sustainable polyesters.
Simulation of large particle transport near the surface under stable conditions: comparison with the Hanford tracer experiments

Abstract A plume model is presented describing the downwind transport of large particles (1–100 μm) under stable conditions. The model includes both vertical variations in wind speed and turbulence intensity as well as an algorithm for particle deposition at the surface. Model predictions compare favorably with the Hanford single and dual tracer experiments of crosswind integrated concentration (for particles: relative bias=−0.02 and 0.16, normalized mean square error=0.61 and 0.14, for the single and dual tracer experiments, respectively), whereas the US EPA's fugitive dust model consistently overestimates the observed concentrations at downwind distances beyond several hundred meters (for particles: relative bias=0.31 and 2.26, mean square error=0.42 and 1.71, respectively). For either plume model, the measured ratio of particle to gas concentration is consistently overestimated when using the deposition velocity algorithm of Sehmel and Hodgson (1978. DOE Report PNL-SA-6721, Pacific Northwest Laboratories, Richland, WA). In contrast, these same ratios are predicted with relatively little bias when using the algorithm of Kim et al. (2000. Atmospheric Environment 34 (15), 2387–2397).
How reading works: considerations from prehistory to the present

Reading is not a "natural" human ability. Because reading was invented only 6,000 years ago there cannot have developed any central nervous system structures specifically for the purpose of mediating reading. The anthropological concept of preadaptation, which states that the evolution of a structure for one purpose can enable that structure to perform another, must be true for reading. The research discussed in this article looks into the functions that preadapted the brain for reading. Findings suggest that the ancient skills of gestural comprehension and animal tracking were the underpinnings of brain organization that permitted reading to occur.
Towards the identification of the optimal number of relevance categories

In this paper, we are concerned with participants' confidence in their judgments of the relevance of bibliographic records to particular research questions. We describe an empirical investigation of the association between judges' confidence and the number of categories for a relevance rating scale. Participants rated the relevance of bibliographic records, and recorded their confidence in the relevance ratings. We hypothesize that confidence in relevance judgments is a function of the number of relevance categories that are available in the rating scale. We consider scales ranging from 2 to 11 points, and define the optimal scale as the one for which participants express a maximum level of confidence. A pilot study finds no optimal number of points (because confidence continues to improve slightly through the 11-point scale); nevertheless, the study shows little added benefit associated with scales that have more than six points. On the basis of the findings in that study, we adjusted our experimental procedures and found, in our principal study, that the optimal scale for maximizing confidence in relevance judgments has approximately seven points. We also present exploratory results involving gender effects, and the comparison of scales that have an odd number of points (for which a neutral judgment is possible) with scales that have an even number of points.
Biological consequences of stream routing through a final-cut Strip mine pit: Benthic macroinvertebrates

Benthic macroinvertebrates were collected from the Plachek Pit, a final-cut coal strip mine pit at the Big Horn Mine near Sheridan, Wyoming, USA. Goose Creek was routed through the pit to allow mining under the original creek bed. The benthic community in the pit was dominated by the worm Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri and various midge genera, including Chironomus sp., Procladius sp. and Tanypus stellatus. Insects other than chironomids were minor components of the benthic fauna, and were collected only in the upstream portions of the pit; they were concluded to have originated from drift deposition. The pit functions as a sink for drifting macroinvertebrates. Based on community composition and supplemental water quality information it was concluded that the Plachek Pit best exemplified an organically-enriched, lake-like ecosystem. Overall, rerouting of Goose Creek through the Plachek Pit was not viewed as deleterious to Goose Creek, but rather benefited the creek by serving as a sink for inputs from upstream municipal and agricultural effluents.
Long-term results of permanent urethral stent Memotherm implantation in the management of recurrent bulbar urethral stenosis

794 Others have pushed for early catheter removal but have admitted a higher chance of urinary extravasation. I think what is clear from this article is that surgeons have a choice they can leave the catheter in for a long period of time and not perform imaging or they can try to remove the catheter early but should perform imaging if they do so. With prolonged catheterization comes increased risk of urinary tract infection and patient discomfort. With early catheter removal comes the risk that about 1 in 5 will need the catheter replaced for another week or two due to extravasation on imaging. It would seem that for patients who live close to a reconstructive center, early catheter removal with imaging and a chance of catheter replacement may be preferable. For those who live far from their reconstructive surgeon or who want to minimize extra visits, a longer period of catheterization without subsequent imaging would be appropriate.
Using Two-Dimensional Correlations of 13C NMR and FTIR To Investigate Changes in the Chemical Composition of Dissolved Organic Matter along an Estuarine Transect

Applying two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy to 13C NMR and FTIR spectra of the high molecular-weight dissolved organic matter (HMW-DOM) isolated along an Elizabeth River/Chesapeake Bay salinity transect shows that HMW-DOM consists of three major components that have different biogeochemical reactivities. The first appears to be a heteropolysaccharide (HPS) component and its contribution to carbon increases as we approach the marine offshore. The second appears to be composed of carboxyl-rich compounds (CRC); its carbon percentage decreases. The third component contains the major functional group of amide/amino sugar (AMS) and its carbon percentage stays almost constant along the salinity transect. It seems that the HPS and CRC are present in many aquatic environments at different relative ratios. The 2D-correlation maps reveal that each of these components is composed of dynamic mixtures of compounds that share similar backbone structures but have significant functional group differences. Two-dimens...
A polyamine-conjugated peptide isolated from human plasma.

Abstract When human plasma was fractionated by gel exclusion chromatography on Bio-Gel P-10, substantial quantities of putrescine and trace amounts of spermidine were consistently associated with a 4200 M r peptide species. Putrescine was not removed from the peptide by extensive dialysis, desalting, multiple gel and ion exchange chromatographic procedures, nor by incubation with urea followed by trichloroacetic acid precipitation. No putrescine was detected unless the peptide was acid hydrolyzed. Incubation of plasma with 14 C-labeled putrescine did not result in association of the label with the peptide. We conclude that these polyamines appear to be covalently bound to this major plasma peptide species. The amount of putrescine associated with the peptide is 10- to 40-fold the concentration of unbound plasma putrescine per equivalent amount of plasma. The peptide was purified to apparent homogeneity and was found to be a single chain composed of 32 amino acid residues with a combined molecular weight of 4180. Possible biological roles of this polyamine conjugated peptide are discussed.
AIDS/HIV articles published in selected professional health journals: 1981-1990.

ABSTRACT: Journals from five professional associations were reviewed to determine the response to AIDS/HIV in their journal: Association for the Advancement of Health Education (AAHE) and Journal of Health Education; American College Health Association (ACHA) and Journal of American College Health; American Public Health Association (APHA) and American Journal of Public Health; American School Health Association (ASHA) and Journal of School Health, and the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE) and Health Education Quarterly. The project posed the following questions: 1) How many articles on AIDS/HIV were published in the selected journals during the 10-year period from 1981 through 1990? 2) What types of articles were published during the period, such as editorials, recommendations, guidelines, and research? and 3) What approaches were shown effective in changing knowledge, attitudes, and behavior? The first article appeared in 1984; 239 articles were published in the five journals reviewed. Each journal devoted at least one entire issue to AIDS/HIV. The articles were categorized as either applied (43.9%) or data-based (56.1 %). Since most articles with a research focus did not include pretest and posttest measurements, it proved difficult to determine the most effective methods for changing knowledge, attitudes, and behavior. Evaluation methods that assess the effectiveness of interventions in changing knowledge, attitudes, and behavior are needed.
A Comparative Numerical Study of Aerodynamics and Heat Transfer on Transitional Flow Around a Highly Loaded Turbine Blade With Flow Separation Using RANS, URANS and LES

The paper numerically and experimentally investigates the behavior of the boundary layer development and heat transfer along the suction and pressure surfaces of a highly loaded turbine blade with separation. To evaluate and compare the predictive capability of different numerical methods, Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes based solvers (RANS), Unsteady Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes equation (URANS) as well as Large Eddy Simulation (LES) are used. The results of each individual numerical method are compared with the measurements. For this purpose, extensive boundary layer and heat transfer measurements were performed in the unsteady boundary layer cascade facility of the Turbomachinery Performance and Flow Research Laboratory (TPFL) of Texas A&M University. Aerodynamics experiments include measuring the onset of the boundary, its transition, separation and re-attachment using miniature hot wire probes. Heat transfer measurements along the suction and pressure surfaces were conducted utilizing a specially designed heat transfer blade that was instrumented with liquid crystal coating. Comparisons of the experimental and numerical results detail differences in predictive capabilities of the RANS based solvers and LES.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Thermal diffusion of alkali bromides

The molar entropies (or heats) of transport of dilute aqueous alkali bromide solutions have been measured by the potentiometric method using the silver, silver bromide thermocell at a mean temperature of 25°C and over a concentration range of 5×10−4 to 0.1M. Experimental results were extrapolated to infinite dilution to obtain the standard molar entropies of transport. The limiting behavior observed is compared with theory based on the electrostatic model.
Janus Colloidal Matchsticks

We fabricated chemically and shape-aniso- tropic colloids composed of silica rods coated with gold tips using a multistep process involving electric-field alignment and crystallization, microcontact printing, and selective metallization. Through direct observation, we found that these "Janus matchsticks" self-assemble into multipods (bi-, tri-, and tetrapods) of varying coordination number and patch angle in aqueous solution.
Physiological consequences of β-adrenoceptor desensitization in guinea pigs☆

Abstract The effects of repetitive doses of β-adrenoceptor stimulants on the resting tone and responsiveness of broncho-pulmonary smooth muscle were studied in guinea pigs. Collapse time was used to assess bronchospasm in conscious animals while resistance and compliance measurements were used in the anesthetized guinea pigs. Repetitive administration of either isoproterenol or salbutamol, at effective bronchodilator doses, caused an exacerbation of the histamine-induced bronchospasm in the presence or absence of anesthesia. Repetitive administration of either prostaglandin E 1 , 20 μg/kg i.m., or aminophylline, 400 μg/kg i.m. did not enhance histamine-induced bronchospasm. Furthermore, in guinea pigs preselected for lack of histamine sensitivity, treatment with salbutamol caused a decrease in both dynamic compliance values and peak expiratory flow rate as well as an increase in resistance values. Trachea removed from guinea pigs treated with isoproterenol or salbutamol retained normal responsiveness to histamine and dibutyryl cAMP while the responsiveness to isoproterenol was reduced. These studies indicate that repetitive administration of β-adrenoceptor stimulants can produce a specific desensitizatio of β-adrenoceptors in pulmonary tissue and an alteration of resting baseline values of pulmonary mechanics measurements.
Development of an Electronic Hopper Weight Scale

An electronic hopper weight scale was designed and built to measure and record the mass flow of seed cotton, lint or lint cleaner waste. The measurement could be used in a feedback control loop to optimize the operations of the gin equipment which included the feed control, gin stand, and lint cleaners. The bottom doors of the electronic hopper scale were pneumatically controlled by a PC to collect and dispose of the cleaner waste. A PC based data acquisition and control application was developed to collect data from a low cost USB based A/D converter that sampled filtered and amplified signals from two S- type strain gages. Tests were conducted on the electronic hopper to verify its functionality and performance. The electronic hopper design and its control software achieved a target accuracy of + 5%.
Thoracic neural crest tumors in Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome

diagnosis, degree of surgical resection or prior treatment and subsequent development of extraneural metastases was found [4]. The exact route of extraneural metastases is not known, but in the vast majority metastases occurred in the wake of craniotomy, suggesting iatrogenic vascular seeding [3]. Typically, extraneural metastases of ependymoma occur in the lungs, pleura, and lymph nodes while metastases to the mediastinum, liver, bone, and diaphragmatic muscle are even less common [4]. In most cases, the existence of pleuropulmonary metastases was disclosed only at autopsy usually coexisting with CNS recurrence and systemic metastases [5]. Extraneural metastases or relapses of ependymoma are extremely rare but physicians caring for ependymoma patients must remain aware of this possible complication.
Near Real-Time Assessment of Anatomic and Dosimetric Variations for Head and Neck Radiation Therapy via Graphics Processing Unit–based Dose Deformation Framework

Purpose The purpose of this study was to systematically monitor anatomic variations and their dosimetric consequences during intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for head and neck (H&N) cancer by using a graphics processing unit (GPU)-based deformable image registration (DIR) framework. Methods and Materials Eleven IMRT H&N patients undergoing IMRT with daily megavoltage computed tomography (CT) and weekly kilovoltage CT (kVCT) scans were included in this analysis. Pretreatment kVCTs were automatically registered with their corresponding planning CTs through a GPU-based DIR framework. The deformation of each contoured structure in the H&N region was computed to account for nonrigid change in the patient setup. The Jacobian determinant of the planning target volumes and the surrounding critical structures were used to quantify anatomical volume changes. The actual delivered dose was calculated accounting for the organ deformation. The dose distribution uncertainties due to registration errors were estimated using a landmark-based gamma evaluation. Results Dramatic interfractional anatomic changes were observed. During the treatment course of 6 to 7 weeks, the parotid gland volumes changed up to 34.7%, and the center-of-mass displacement of the 2 parotid glands varied in the range of 0.9 to 8.8 mm. For the primary treatment volume, the cumulative minimum and mean and equivalent uniform doses assessed by the weekly kVCTs were lower than the planned doses by up to 14.9% ( P =.14), 2% ( P =.39), and 7.3% ( P =.05), respectively. The cumulative mean doses were significantly higher than the planned dose for the left parotid ( P =.03) and right parotid glands ( P =.006). The computation including DIR and dose accumulation was ultrafast (∼45 seconds) with registration accuracy at the subvoxel level. Conclusions A systematic analysis of anatomic variations in the H&N region and their dosimetric consequences is critical in improving treatment efficacy. Nearly real-time assessment of anatomic and dosimetric variations is feasible using the GPU-based DIR framework. Clinical implementation of this technology may enable timely plan adaptation and improved outcome.
Biomechanical modeling: Implementing line-of-action algorithm for human muscles and bones using generalized cylinders

Abstract Computer Animation of the human body is one of the most challenging problems. In this paper, we discuss the complexity of the musculoskeletal system for the purpose of human animation. As most of the human body parts are cylindrical in nature, a Generalized Cylinder (GC) is a logical choice for modeling these parts. GCs are also well-suited for physiologic cross-sectional area analysis. The shape of a GC is modeled by a Non-Uniform Rational B-Spline (NURBS) surface or B-Spline curves. Using the B-Spline curves, we have implemented an algorithm to find the line-of-action, and the volume centroid of the muscles and bones of the upper arm. Based on the line-of-action and centroid calculations, we have proposed a novel deformation algorithm which would avoid time consuming equilibrium analysis.
Use of molecular markers in plant improvement programs for rainfed lowland rice

Abstract Molecular marker technology has progressed rapidly over the last decade and is beginning to be incorporated into breeding programs worldwide. As the technology is still relatively expensive, it is unlikely that marker-assisted selection (MAS) can be applied on a routine basis in the large populations that breeders normally handle. It will be particularly appropriate for improving the efficiency of selection for specific objectives in high-potential populations. This article focuses on the abiotic stresses, which uniquely delineate the rainfed lowland ecosystem. Drought resistance is the most complicated trait required for rainfed lowland cultivars. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) for root-related characters such as depth and thickness have been mapped in three populations involving crosses between susceptible lowland cultivars and upland japonica cultivars. A locus conferring dehydration tolerance from the drought susceptible cultivar CO39 has been mapped on chromosome 8. Genetic studies of submergence tolerance have concentrated on the ‘FR13A’ source. The majority of this tolerance derives from a single gene mapped on chromosome 9, although several other QTL have also been described. QTL for tolerance to adverse soils are being mapped, with loci for salinity and iron toxicity being identified. MAS can be used to transfer important QTL into cultivars with the broadest range of adaptation. As an example, MAS could be used to introduce QTL for tolerance to submergence and drought into a cultivar that produces high yields in a specific region. As the cost of MAS technology declines, the process can be applied to ever smaller eco-geographic regions. In the future, molecular marker technology will enable the identification of specific genes conferring increased yield as well as resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. This will give breeders an unprecedented ability to tailor cultivars to the specific environments where they will be grown.
Nicotine infused into the nucleus accumbens increases synaptic dopamine as measured by in vivo microdialysis

It has been postulated that addiction to nicotine is mediated by dopamine release in the mesolimbic system. It is possible that nicotine might act directly on the dopamine terminals to release dopamine. This hypothesis was tested by infusing nicotine through a microdialysis probe into the nucleus accumbens of freely moving rats. Dopamine, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, and homovanillic acid from the extracellular space were collected by microdialysis and measured by high pressure liquid chromatography. Nicotine increased extracellular dopamine in a dose-related manner. Systemic injection of the nicotine antagonist mecamylamine blocked the dopamine increase induced by local nicotine. These results suggest that nicotine releases dopamine by a local action in the nucleus accumbens terminal area of the mesolimbic system. Presynaptic induction of dopamine release might play a role in nicotine addiction.
Gamma-butyrolactone's discriminability and effect on low rates of lever pressing by rats: alone and in combination with D-amphetamine and naloxone.

Abstract Three studies examined gamma-butyrolactone (Gbl) for benzodiazepine-like effects on low rates of food reinforced lever pressing by rats. A fourth study established Gbl's discriminative properties. Additionally, d-amphetamine or naloxone was administered with Gbl to test hypotheses of Gbl's neurochemical mechanisms of action. In Experiment 1, Gbl caused a dose-related decrease in lever pressing during a fixed-interval reinforcement schedule. Contrary to previous reports, neither d-amphetamine nor naloxone reversed the depressive effects of a high dose of Gbl on behavior. In Experiment 2, Gbl increased lever pressing which had been suppressed in the presence of a tone correlated with response-independent foot-shock (conditioned suppression). These results are consistent with, and extend, previous findings of benzodiazepine-like antipunishment effects of Gbl. However, in Experiment 3, when brief electric shocks were presented after each lever pressm Gbl did not increase lever pressing. These results show the limited generality of Gbl's antipunishment effect compared to broad spectrum anxiolytics. Experiment 4, a drug discrimination study, showed rats readily discriminated 150 and 125 mg/kg Gbl from saline. However, neither d-amphetamine nor naloxone generalized to the Gbl lever. Amphetamine partially blocked the discriminative properties of 150 mg/kg Gbl, whereas naloxone had little effect on Gbl's discriminative properties. Thus, there is some support for a direct catecholaminergic role in Gbl-related seizures and little support for opioid receptor participation. The results of Experiments 1 and 4 indicate that Gbl's effects on behavior are complex, and are not accounted for by hypothesis involving only catecholamine and/or opioid mechanisms of action.
Nest and nest site characteristics of the Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) on intensively managed fishponds: an example from Bohemia

Selected data of nest biology of the Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) (Aves Podicipediformes) in specific fishpond conditions in the Protected Landscape Area and Biosphere Reserve Třeboňsko (Czech Republic) were analysed. An interdependence of dimensions of the nesting dent was found: the wider the dent, the deeper it was. A positive correlation was also found between the total nest height and the nest height above water level. Differences in most measured characteristics in relation to the number of eggs were not found (the positive correlation with the width and depth of the nest dent only). A positive correlation between the distance from the nearest nest and the water depth was found. The results also suggest a relationship between the distance of the nearest nest and the distance from the free water level, as well as between the water depth near the nest and the nest distance from the free water level. Nests near the shore were denser than nests on the free water level. The mutual distance of...
The effect of training on equine metacarpal bone breaking strength

Summary Right third metacarpal bones (n=24) from Thoroughbreds, 24 to 48 months old and in race training, were tested to failure in 3 point bending. The neutral load axis was estimated and the distance from the axis to the outer dorsal cortical surface measured. Mid-diaphyseal dorsopalmar and lateromedial outer cortical and medullary diameters were measured. Breaking strength, cortical area and area moment of inertia were also calculated. Significant correlations were demonstrated between months in training and dorsopalmar bone diameter, cortical area and area moment of inertia. Significant linear models were illustrated between the same 3 variables and number of months in training. It was concluded that increased duration of training significantly enlarges dorsopalmar bone diameter, cortical area and area moment of inertia. Training did not affect metacarpal bone breaking strength as determined by 3 point bending.
Assay of Erythromycin from Human Serum by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Electrochemical Detection

Abstract A sensitive and selective method has been developed for the determination of serum concentrations of erythromycin A by high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Erythromycin was extracted from alkalinized serum samples with methyl t-butyl ether. After evaporation of the ether, the samples were reconstituted in acetonitrile/ammonium acetate and washed with hexane. Aliquots were injected onto a Sepralyte diphenyl column. The mobile phase consists of acetonitrile/sodium perchlorate/ammonium acetate/methanol under isocratic conditions. Eluted peaks were detected by dual coulometric electrodes operated in the oxidative screen mode. The recovery of erythromycin from serum was 84%. Assay limit of quantification was 0.05 μg/ml serum, and dynamic linear range was 0.05–1.5 μg/ml. This method was used to quantitate both erythromycin and its gastric degradation products from human serum. Additionally, other macrolide antibiotics could be quantified by electrochemical detection. A...
Ericssonite and orthoericssonite. Two new members of the lamprophyllite group, from Långban, Sweden

Abstract Ericssonite and orthoericssonite, BaMn22+(Fe3+O)[Si2O7](OH), are two new minerals from Langban, Sweden occuring together as reddish-black plates embedded in schefferite-rhodonite-tephroite skarn. X-ray single crystal studies and electron microprobe analyses establish a close relationship of the new species with lamprophyllite and orthorhombic lamprophyllite. Ericssonite is C2/m or C2, a=20.42, b=7.03, c=5.34 A , β=95°30′, Z =4 and orthoericssonite is Pnmn or Pn2n with a=20.32, b=7.03, c=5.34 A , Z =4 .
Repeated contract negotiations with private information

Abstract Labor contracts are repeated, and the current negotiation apparently affects negotiations on the next contract. There is evidence that the likelihood of a strike is influenced by what happened before the previous contract was signed. To analyze whether private information might explain this, a model of negotiations between a buyer and a seller is developed where the “pie” in each contract follows a Markov chain, with transitions observed privately by the buyer. Each negotiation is a sequence of offers by the seller; the buyer can only accept or reject each offer, and a contract is signed when the buyer accepts.