cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Energy Research: Computational Challenges

The emergence of photocatalytic solar cells based on semiconductor materials functionalized with earth-abundant transition metal complexes represent a promising development for the sustainable production of fuel from renewable resources (e.g., water). This article reviews recent advances in studies of nanoporous TiO2 thin films sensitized with manganese catalysts, with emphasis on recent computational work integrated with synthesis, electrochemistry, and spectroscopy. The resulting interdisciplinary approach addresses fundamental aspects that affect the overall efficiency of photocatalytic mechanisms, including proton-coupled electron transfer, rectification of interfacial electron transfer, and visible light absorption, providing guidelines for the design of novel photocatalytic materials for fuel production. Keywords: photocatalysis; solar cells; water splitting; artificial photosynthesis; molecular diodes; proton-coupled electron transfer
Metamaterial photonic funnels for subdiffraction light compression and propagation

We present waveguides with photonic crystal cores, supporting energy propagation in subwavelength regions with a mode structure similar to that in telecom fibers. We design meta-materials for near-, mid-, and far-IR frequencies, and demonstrate efficient energy transfer to and from regions smaller than 1/25-th of the wavelength. Both positive- and negative-refractive index light transmissions are shown. Our approach, although demonstrated here in circular waveguides for some specific frequencies, is easily scalable from optical to IR to THz frequency ranges, and can be realized in a variety of waveguide geometries. Our design may be used for ultra high-density energy focusing, nm-resolution sensing, near-field microscopy, and high-speed all-optical computing.
XXth-century theories of language: an epistemological diagnosis

This article id intended as a study in the methodology and epistemology of linguistics , a field which developed out of theoretical linguistics in the past thirty years.Meth­ odology and epistemology (or philosophy) 1 of linguistics can be subsumed underthe general domain of "philosophical linguistics" (cfr. Kasher - Lappin 1977), whichalso includes a theory of meaning and reference, a theory of linguistic (or, moregenerally semiotic) communication, and - in some cases - a formalization of linguisticsubsys­ tems. The specific contribution of methodology and epistemology of linguistics liesin the definition of the object of linguistics, in the determination and justification of itsre­ search techniques, in the appreciation of its results with respect to a broader field ofin­ vestigation, in the reflection on the nature, status, and variability of approaches tolan­ guage.
A Sociological Approach to the Analysis of Preparation for Work Life

Preparation for work life is interpreted as involving 4 main kinds of preparation: (a) preparation for life in an organization, involving authority, security quests, impersonality, routine, conflict, mobility, and demotion, (b) preparation for a set of role relationships, (c) preparation for a level of consumption, involving a certain style of life, and (d) preparation for an occupational career, involving changes in the nature of jobs, and different types of jobs depending on the position in the life cycle. Conclusions suggest a broadening of the concept of “vocation,” and a change in approach to the analysis of the decision-making process from traditional stochastic analysis to “disjointed incrementalism,” that is, making decisions for short time-periods only, and with strict limitation on available data and resources.
Oxygen tension is a major determinant of hepatotoxicity due to 2-ethylhexanol in isolated tissue cylinders from periportal and pericentral regions of the liver lobule from phenobarbital-treated rats☆

Abstract 2-Ethylhexanol, a metabolite of the commonly used plasticizer di(ethylhexyl)phthalate, was shown to cause toxicity exclusively to periportal regions of the perfused liver (Keller et al., 1990, J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. , 252, 1355–1360.) To determine whether this toxicity was due to local oxygen tension or to drug delivery, isolated cylinders (plugs) of periportal and pericentral regions of the liver lobule from rats pretreated with phenobarbital were collected with a micropunch following brief perfusion of the organ. Plugs were 0.2 mm wide and 0.5 mm long and weighed between 0.5 and 1 mg each. Following incubation for at least 2 hr in Eagle's medium, they were judged viable based on production of urea at high rates and minimal leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Plugs could be cultured for up to 24 hr with minimal loss of activity. Urea synthesis from ammonium chloride (3 m m ) by plugs incubated in Krebs-Henseleit buffer equilibrated with 95% O 2 :5% CO 2 was proportional to protein concentration and was linear with time for up to one hour at rates around 75 μmol/g/hr. Icubation of plugs with 2-ethylhexanol (0.1 to 3 m m ) diminished urea synthesis in a dose-related manner (half-maximal effect = 0.5 m m ). Ethylhexanol also caused extensive cell damage assessed from LDH leakage in incubations at 800 μ m O 2 but significantly less injury at 200 μ m O 2 . Concomitantly, urea synthesis was inhibited by ethylhexanol by over 80% at 800 μ m O 2 but less than 50% at 200 μ m O 2 . Plugs isolated from both regions of the liver lobule were affected similarly by ethylhexanol and O 2 . Taken together, these data indicate that ethylhexanol toxicity is dependent on oxygen tension in isolated sublobular regions of the liver lobule, and therefore it is unlikely that drug delivery can explain the selective injury to periportal regions in studies with the perfused liver.
Crab crossing in a gamma-gamma collider

Abstract The crabbing of an incident photon beam from a laser, and the electron beam with which it interacts at the conversion point, is shown to have the same efficiency as in head-on Compton scattering, but with the advantages of a crossing geometry. The resulting γ-ray beam is also crabbed, which allows for a crossing collision point, while maintaining the luminosity at the same value it would have in a head-on collision.
Transition from weak to strong coupling in QCD and in grand unified models at high temperature

Abstract We investigate the weak-coupling expansion at high temperature for relativistic quantum field theories. Boson self-energies generally acquire a non-analytic dependence on the coupling due to the infrared plasmon effect. We show how to sum loops within loops for such thermodynamic quantities as pressure and energy density. Recent high-precision Monte Carlo simulations of quarkless SU(3) gauge theory are compared to the weak-coupling expansion and an excellent agreement is obtained for the high-temperature phase. Weak-coupling calculations are also carried out for supersymmetric grand unified models. We find indications that such models are often strongly coupled already at the unification temperature. This may have a significant effect on models of the early universe.
Laser processing of bulk Al–12Si alloy: influence of microstructure on thermal properties

The feasibility of enhancing the thermal conductivity of an alloy via microstructural refinement was examined using Al–12%Si alloy as a model material. Al–12Si alloy samples were fabricated at different process parameters using laser engineered net shaping (LENS™) and the effect of microstructural features on the thermal conductivity was studied and compared with conventionally cast alloy. The large difference in melting points and laser light absorptivities of Si and Al as well as the low melt viscosity of Al–12Si alloy resulted in a very small process window to successfully fabricate bulk Al–12Si alloy samples using LENS™. Comparison of microstructural features of laser-processed samples with cast Al–12Si alloy showed significant refinement in eutectic Si for laser processed samples. Microstructural refinement not only improved the thermal conductivity of Al–12Si alloy but also compensated the detrimental effect of porosity on thermal conductivity. The thermal conductivity of cast alloy varied between 8...
A SIMPLE METHOD FOR ASSESSING BODY MOVEMENT AND POTENTIAL ARTIFACTS IN THE PHYSIOLOGICAL RECORDINGS OF YOUNG CHILDREN

A method is described for measuring body movement and potential artifacts in the physiological recordings of young children. This method simply involves the attachment of open-ended electrodes to the cloth cover of the chair in which the child reclines. Techniques are discussed for limiting possible extraneous “noise,” and basic findings under adverse laboratory conditions are presented.
Most powerful rank tests for perfect rankings

We consider the problem of testing for perfect rankings in ranked set sampling (RSS). By using a new algorithm for computing the probability that specified independent random variables have a particular ordering, we find most powerful rank tests of the null hypothesis of perfect rankings against fully specified alternatives. We compare the power of these most powerful rank tests to that of existing rank tests in the literature, and we find that the existing tests are surprisingly close to optimal over a wide range of alternatives to perfect rankings. This finding holds both for balanced RSS and for unbalanced RSS cases where the different ranks are not equally represented in the sample. We find that the best of the existing tests is the test that rejects when the null probability of the observed ranks is small, and we provide a new, more efficient R function for computing the test statistic.
Comparison of Degree of Susceptibility of Hyperthyroid and Euthyroid Animals to Cardiac Glycoside-Induced Arrhythmias

The present studies were performed to determine the arrhythmogcnic dose of ouabain in euthyroid and hyperthyroid guinea pigs and rabbits. The animals were made hyperthyroid by daily injection of thyroxine 100 mcg./kg. i.p. for 10–14 days. Cardiovascular responses, including heart rate from limb lead II electrocardiogram and arterial blood pressure, were monitored. By the method of analysis of variance, no significant difference was shown between the arrhythmogenic dose of ouabain in euthyroid and hyperthyroid guinea pigs. However, this difference was statistically significant in rabbits. An increase in extracellular serum calcium-ion concentration did not change the responsiveness of the myocardium to ouabain toxicity in either the euthyroid or the hyperthyroid animal. In addition, the β-adrenergic receptor blocking drug practolol (10 mg./kg.) was ineffective in completely abolishing the resting tachycardia in hyperthyroid rabbits. These studies do not support the idea of decreased responsiveness to cardiac glycosides due to the hyperthyroid state.
REVIEW: Utilization of Pharmacotherapy for Erectile Dysfunction Following Treatment for Prostate Cancer

ABSTRACT Introduction Pharmacotherapies improve sexual function following treatments for localized prostate cancer; however, patterns of care remain unknown. Aim To ascertain post-treatment utilization of pharmacotherapies for erectile dysfunction (ED) using a population-based approach. Methods We identified 38,958 men who underwent definitive treatment for localized prostate cancer during 2003–2006 from the MarketScan Medstat data. Main Outcome Measures We compared the use of ED pharmacotherapy at baseline (up to 3 months prior) and up to 30 months following radical prostatectomy (RP) or radiotherapy (RT) for localized prostate cancer by utilizing National Drug Classification codes for phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5I), intracavernosal injectable therapies (IT), urethral suppositories and vacuum erection devices (VED). In adjusted analyses, we controlled for the effect of age, comorbidity, type of treatment, health plan and use of adjuvant hormone therapy on the use of pharmacotherapies. Results Men undergoing RP vs. RT were younger with less co-morbid conditions. Utilization of PDE5I was up to three times greater for men undergoing RP vs. RT, 25.6% vs. 8.8%, ( P P P P Conclusion Men undergoing RP vs. RT, particularly minimally-invasive RP, are more likely to employ IT, suppositories, VED, and PDE5I pharmacotherapy post-treatment. Prasad MM, Prasad SM, Hevlone ND, Gu X, Weinberg AC, Lipsitz SR, Palapattu GS, and Hu JC. Utilization of pharmacotherapy for erectile dysfunction following treatment for prostate cancer.
The occurrence and phylogenetic significance of a multilayered structure in Coleochaete spermatozoids

Spermatozoid-forming cells of Coleochaete scutata were found in packets of four arranged in concentric internal bands. Spermatozoids, which occur singly in antheridial cells, are spherical to ovoid, approximately 7 ,um long by about 3.9 ,um wide. As compared to relatively unspecialized zoospores, male gametes undergo a number of specialized cellular changes during development. The spherical nuclei and cytoplasm of mature spermatozoids are increased in density. Posterior plastids are reduced and contain large starch grains. Many small mitochondria are clustered near the cell anterior. The plasmalemma is covered with a layer of flattened, diamond-shaped scales, while body scales of zoospores are pyramidal. The two flagella of both zoospores and spermatozoids are covered with flattened, diamond-shaped scales and hairs. The spermatozoids contain an anterior multilayered structure (MLS) structurally similar to, though smaller than, the MLS observed in zoospores. An asymmetrical cytoskeleton consisting of a band of 30-45 microtubules extends from the MLS down one side of the spermatozoid close to the plasmalemma. An immature MLS was observed in an early stage of spermatozoid development. The finding of an MLS and asymmetrical cytoskeleton in specialized male gametes as well as relatively unspecialized zoospores of Coleochaete strengthens assumptions of homology between MLSs of green algal reproductive cells and those found in flagellated spermatozoids of archegoniate plants. The structure of the spermatozoid of Coleochaete supports the hypothesis that this alga may be relatively close to the phylogenetic line which led directly to arche-
Transient laminar flow in ducts of arbitrary cross-section by finite element methods

Abstract A computer model is constructed based on finite elements, to simulate viscous flow in large ducts of arbitrary cross-section. Both the entry problem (variation with axial length for prescribed end conditions), and the transient problem (constant axial conditions but arbitrarily-prescribed initial conditions) are solved. Velocity profiles and wall shearing stresses are exhibited for rectangular, elliptic and bi-circular cross-sections.
Use of gene profiling to evaluate the effects of a feed additive on immune function in periparturient dairy cattle.

Summary Objectives were to investigate mechanisms by which a nutritional supplement alters immunity in dairy cattle. Our hypothesis was that feeding this product to dairy cattle altered neutrophil gene expression. Eight periparturient Jersey cattle were randomly assigned to one of two treatments: control and treated. Control animals were fed a dry cow ration for 1 month prior to calving. The treated cows were fed the same ration supplemented with OmniGen-AF. Following calving, blood samples were taken and neutrophils were prepared after which RNA was extracted. Gene expression in neutrophils of treated versus control-fed animals was then assessed using bovine-total leukocyte (BOTL-5) arrays. Eighteen genes were differentially regulated in the experimental group and of these, twice as many were up-regulated as down-regulated. Patterns of changes indicated that the additive might alter neutrophil apoptosis, signaling and sensitivity. Two of the regulated genes [interleukin-1β converting enzyme (ICE) and interleukin-4 receptor (IL-4R)] were investigated in more detail using quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (QRT-PCR). Each was found to be elevated by the feeding of experimental product. Increased expression of ICE indicates potential for enhanced neutrophil expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), a cytokine which plays roles in the inflammatory response and which stimulates adaptive immunity following innate immune activation. Altered expression of IL-4R indicates potential for changes in neutrophil apoptosis. The experiment identified mechanisms by which the additive altered neutrophil gene expression. While many nutrients support the immune system, we have shown that a non-traditional nutritional approach may also have utility in modulating immune function.
Sequence Matters: Genomic Research and the Gene Concept

Analysis of two key ways of characterizing genes—as causes of phenotypic effects and as genomic DNA sequences—has yielded widespread pessimism that they can be united in a coherent gene concept. This raises important questions about the epistemology of genomic research: If analysis of a genome sequence cannot yield information about genes defined both in terms of their products and their DNA sequence, then what could we learn from it? I investigate basic tools of genomic analysis, argue that they do not reflect the application of either gene concept, and clarify how we learn from genomic research.
“Like an Expert Sharecropper”: Agricultural Halakhah and Agricultural Science in Rabbinic Palestine

The formulation and application of rabbinic Halakhah often depends on the determination of facts that belong, to one degree or another, to the province of professional experts. The resulting structural tension is analogous to that posed by the prominence of the expert witness in the modern American court, or the active role of private industry in administrative law. This article examines the relationship in the classical rabbinic corpus from Palestine between rabbis and farmers, or between rabbinic and agricultural expertise. It considers whether agriculture would have been conceived of in this context as a specialized or technical body of knowledge, and, if so, whether and how agricultural Halakhah accommodates itself to this fact.
For science and country

Fritz Haber: Chemiker, Nobelpreistrager, Deutscher, Jude. By Dietrich Stoltzenberg. VCH: 1994. Pp. 669. DM98.
Diazepines. I. 3,8-Dihalo-11H-dibenzo[c,f]-[1,2] diazepines†

The title compounds were prepared by lithium aluminum hydride reduction of the corresponding 2, 2′-dinitro-4, 4′-dihalodiphenylmethanes. Peracetic acid oxidation of the title compounds led to the N-oxides, chromic anhydride oxidation led to an 11- keto compound, and hydrazine - Raney nickel reduction led to the dihydro compounds.
Unified model of the temperature quenching of narrow-line and broad-band emissions

Abstract Temperature quenchings of narrow-line and broad-band emissions are pictured through the quantum-mechanical single-configurational-coordinate model. The model is taken in the thermal-Condon approximation with the overlap integrals evaluated through the Manneback recursion formulas. The multiple activation energies mħωυ to the initial vibrational states produce an increase in the non-radiative rate poorly described, in general, by a single activation energy. The model applies to energy parabolas with large Franck- Condon offset and a consequent crossover and to energy parabolas with small Franck- Condon offset and no relevant crossover. For large offset, the model gives approximately Mott's single-activation-energy rate AM exp(-EX/kT) for upward transitions but faster rates poorly described by a single activation energy for downward transitions. For small offset, the model gives approximately Kiel's multiphonon-emission rate AKϵp[1+〈m〉υ]p for downward transitions. A numerical matrix method is described which can handle all cases and which explicitly exhibits the multiple activation energies mħωυ in every case. This method is used to work out examples of the various types of quenchings which can occur: a fast bottom crossover, an outside crossover, small-offset multiphonon emission, a tunneling crossover, and two-step quenchings through a higher offset state.
Desmethoxyabresoline and 10-epi-desmethoxyabresoline, new ester alkaloids in Heimia salicifolia

Abstract Two new ester alkaloids, desmethoxyabresoline and 10-epi-desmethoxyabresoline, have been isolated from young seedlings of Heimia salicifolia and have been synthesized. Chemical and physical properties of the natural and synthetic isomers are in agreement. The presence of these alkaloids adds support to the postulate that the biphenyl system of the lythraceous alkaloids is derived from trans-cinnamate esters of phenylquinolizidinols.
Ultra-short pulse laser interaction with transparent dielectrics

The interaction of intense, ultra-short laser pulses (USLP) with a surface of transparent dielectrics is considered. The combination of multi-photon absorption and impact ionization generates a plasma layer at the dielectric boundary. Interaction with the plasma self-consistently determines the amount of reflected, transmitted and absorbed light, and the spatial distribution of electron density. In the present paper, we model the interaction of USLP with transparent dielectrics. We calculate the evolution of electron density profiles and the variation of reflection, transmission and absorption of laser radiation during the pulse. We show that the laser-created surface plasma acts as a filter transmitting only the leading edge of the laser pulse. The transmitted energy is approximately fixed, nearly independent of input pulse energy. The transmitted energy increases with pulse duration. This increased energy is manifested in the formation of cylindrical shock waves directly applicable to recent experiments investigating absorption and shock generation in water.
Influence of Phosphorus and Potassium on Alfalfa Yield and Yield Components

Phosphorus and K fertilization increases alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) yield and stand persistence, but the changes in yield components as affected by P and K fertility level are not known. Our hypothesis is that P and (or) K fertilization will increase one or more alfalfa yield components, and those component responses may change with stand age. The objectives of this field study were to determine the impact of P and K fertilization on alfalfa forage yield and yield components during the initial 3 yr after establishment. Treatments were the factorial combinations of four P rates (0, 25, 50, and 75 kg P ha -1 ) and five K rates (0, 100, 200, 300, and 400 kg K ha -1 ) arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Forage harvests occurred four times annually, and yield, mass shoot -1 , and shoots area -1 were determined. Plant populations were determined in early December and late May each year. Incremental additions of P and K increased alfalfa yield in each year. Potassium fertilization did not influence plant population, while robust P-responsive alfalfa plants apparently crowded out smaller, less vigorous plants thus decreasing plants m -2 . Stand assessments based on shoot counts, or aboveground plant counts may not accurately indicate alfalfa yield potential. Shoots plant -1 was not affected by application of either nutrient, while shoots m -2 generally declined with increased P and K fertilization. Improved forage yield of P- and K-fertilized plots was consistently associated with greater mass shoot -1 . Because fertilizer-responsiveness is closely associated with greater mass shoot -1 , cultivars possessing this trait may be relatively more productive under well-fertilized conditions.
Effects of pyrazole, 4-bromopyrazole and 4-methylpyrazole on mitochondrial function.

Abstract Pyrazole, an inhibitor of alcohol dehydrogenase, has been widely used in studies of ethanol metabolism. Since its specificity has recently been questioned, we studied the effects of pyrazole, methylpyrazole and bromopyrazole on mitochondrial function. These compounds inhibited oxidative phosphorylation, the ATP −32 P exchange reaction, and energy dependent and independent calcium uptake. With α-ketoglutarate as substrate, state 3 (coupled) respiration was inhibited, whereas state 4 (resting) respiration was not affected. By contrast, state 4 respiration was stimulated when succinate or ascorbate served as the substrate, while state 3 respiration was slightly inhibited. Regardless of the substrate, the respiratory control ratio was depressed. The activities of succinic dehydrogenase and cytochrome oxidase were stimulated by pyrazole and its derivatives, which may explain the stimulation of succinate and ascorbate oxidation. The inhibitory effects of these compounds were reversed by washing the mitochondria, indicating that no permanent damage to mitochondria had occurred. This is supported by the lack of stimulation of latent ATPase activity and the unchanged barrier to the penetration of NADH. Pyrazole and its derivatives decreased the uptake of citrate and glutamate, but stimulated that of phosphate and malate. Methylpyrazole and bromopyrazole inhibited the transport of reducing equivalents into the mitochondria, as catalyzed by the malate-aspartate, fatty acid and α-glycerophosphate shuttles. The data mandate caution in advocating the therapeutic use of pyrazole or its derivatives in man, and suggest that the use of pyrazole to assess ethanol metabolism and its sequelae in vivo may have limitations.
Older women: a literature review

Older women need special attention and study in the health care profession, yet this attention has not been forthcoming. Age has a serious impact on women. This paper reports on the state of the literature on older women. This literature review on older women includes specific problem areas, such as caregiving, social networks, and retirement. Nursing will have many opportunities for development and implementation of resources for this vast age group. The literature on older women is examined, including strengths and weaknesses. Recommendations for future research to build knowledge and theory in nursing are identified.
An Adaptive Particle Swarm Optimization With Multiple Adaptive Methods

Particle swarm optimization (PSO) has attracted much attention and has been applied to many scientific and engineering applications in the last decade. Most recently, an intelligent augmented particle swarm optimization with multiple adaptive methods (PSO-MAM) was proposed and was demonstrated to be effective for diverse functions. However, inherited from PSO, the performance of PSO-MAM heavily depends on the settings of three parameters: the two learning factors and the inertia weight. In this paper, we propose a parameter control mechanism to adaptively change the parameters and thus improve the robustness of PSO-MAM. A new method, adaptive PSO-MAM (APSO-MAM) is developed that is expected to be more robust than PSO-MAM. We comprehensively evaluate the performance of APSO-MAM by comparing it with PSO-MAM and several state-of-the-art PSO algorithms and evolutionary algorithms. The proposed parameter control method is also compared with several existing parameter control methods. The experimental results demonstrate that APSO-MAM outperforms the compared PSO algorithms and evolutionary algorithms, and is more robust than PSO-MAM.
LOCAL SPECIFIC THERAPY OF EXPERIMENTAL PNEUMOCOCCAL MENINGITIS : I. EXPERIMENTAL PNEUMOCOCCAL MENINGITIS IN RABBITS.

1. Fatal Type I pneumococcal meningitis may be produced in rabbits by intracisternal injection of pneumococci. 2. When organisms are of high virulence, the rabbit does not tend to localize them in the meninges, but an early septicemic process results. Death is septicemic rather than meningeal. 3. In such instances very little cellular reaction occurs in the meninges. 4. Active or passive immunization previous to intracisternal infection inhibits partially the septicemia and permits the development of reactional processes in the meninges. 5. The immunization likewise retards the meningeal disease, but multiplicity of factors prevents us from stating precisely to what this retardation is due. It is not correlated with the presence of agglutinins in the spinal fluid at the time of infection. 6. The rapidity of production of meningitis is influenced by the phase of growth of the culture used, and likewise by the growth activity of that culture. 7. To some extent in the partially immune rabbit the meningeal spaces constitute a relatively non-immune reservoir, constantly feeding the blood stream and breaking down systemic resistance. 8. Intrathecal serum treatment causes rapid agglutination and phagocytosis of pneumococci, and has very rarely, possibly, resulted in cure. Essentially no phagocytosis occurs in the absence of immune serum. 9. Phagocyted pneumococci stained supravitally take up the neutral red stain and are therefore probably injured. 10. The treatment employed subsequent to infection only slightly prolongs life in the majority of cases. It does retard septicemia. 11. The treatment improves the cellular reactional processes in the meninges. 12. A study of the pathology of rabbit pneumococcal meningitis shows that the location of pneumococci precludes complete contact with serum introduced intrathecally, and that these locations provide isolated foci, from which organisms may reinfect the meningeal spaces as rapidly as they are removed by lavage or antibody injections. 13. In recovered rabbits postmeningeal symptoms, weakness, ataxia, nystagmus, and paralyses arise. 14. In our opinion there is some objective evidence of benefit of serum therapy. The rabbit is too susceptible, however, and conditions too artificial to admit of definite conclusions. 15. Rough Type I pneumococci introduced in large quantity cisternally may kill and may be recovered 24 hours after infection, from spinal fluids. In a series of eleven passages, no reversion to smooth type occurred. In all animals injected with rough forms, transient bacteremia resulted.
Identifying Locations and Directions on Field and Representational Mapping Tasks: Predictors of Success

Abstract Performance on field and representational mapping tasks was examined in relation to spatial skills, self-reported wayfinding skills, and participant sex. In field tasks, participants marked their locations and orientations on maps and pointed toward buildings marked on the map. In representational tasks, participants linked maps to photographed scenes and videotaped walks. Collectively, spatial tests predicted performance on all mapping tasks; tests adding unique prediction differed across tasks. Self-reported wayfinding skills predicted success on field but not representational mapping tasks. Findings show the value of research with both field and representational mapping tasks and the need to include directional information on You-Are-Here maps.
Interaction of DNA containing Fapy.dA or its C-nucleoside analogues with base excision repair enzymes. Implications for mutagenesis and enzyme inhibition.

Fapy.dA is produced in DNA as a result of oxidative stress. Recently, this lesion and its C-nucleoside analogues were incorporated in chemically synthesized oligonucleotides at defined sites. The interaction of DNA containing Fapy.dA or nonhydrolyzable analogues with Fpg and MutY is described. Fpg efficiently excises Fapy.dA (K(m) = 1.2 nM, k(cat) = 0.12 min(-1)) opposite T. The lesion is removed as efficiently from duplexes containing Fapy.dA:dA or Fapy.dA:dG base pairs. Multiple turnovers are observed for the repair of Fapy.dA mispairs in a short period of time, indicating that the enzyme does not remain bound to the product duplex. MutY does not incise dA from a duplex containing this nucleotide opposite Fapy.dA, nor does it exhibit an increased level of binding compared to DNA composed solely of native base pairs. MutY also does not incise Fapy.dA when the lesion is opposite dG. These data suggest that Fapy.dA could be deleterious to the genome. Fpg strongly binds duplexes containing the beta-C-nucleoside analogue of Fapy.dA (beta-C-Fapy.dA) opposite all native nucleotides (K(D) < 27 nM), as well as the alpha-C-nucleoside (alpha-C-Fapy.dA) opposite dC (K(D) = 7.1 +/- 1.5 nM). A duplex containing a beta-C-Fapy.dA:T base pair is an effective inhibitor (K(I) = 3.5 +/- 0.3 nM) of repair of Fapy.dA by Fpg, suggesting the C-nucleoside may have useful therapeutic properties.
Phosphatidylinositol 3-Phosphate Induces the Membrane Penetration of the FYVE Domains of Vps27p and Hrs

The FYVE domain mediates the recruitment of proteins involved in membrane trafficking and cell signaling to phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PtdIns(3)P)-containing membranes. To elucidate the mechanism by which the FYVE domain interacts with PtdIns(3)P-containing membranes, we measured the membrane binding of the FYVE domains of yeast Vps27p and Drosophila hepatocyte growth factor-regulated tyrosine kinase substrate and their mutants by surface plasmon resonance and monolayer penetration analyses. These measurements as well as electrostatic potential calculation show that PtdIns(3)P specifically induces the membrane penetration of the FYVE domains and increases their membrane residence time by decreasing the positive charge surrounding the hydrophobic tip of the domain and causing local conformational changes. Mutations of hydrophobic residues located close to the PtdIns(3)P-binding pocket or an Arg residue directly involved in PtdIns(3)P binding abrogated the penetration of the FYVE domains into the monolayer, the packing density of which is comparable with that of biological membranes and large unilamellar vesicles. Based on these results, we propose a mechanism of the membrane binding of the FYVE domain in which the domain first binds to the PtdIns(3)P-containing membrane by specific PtdIns(3)P binding and nonspecific electrostatic interactions, which is then followed by the PtdIns(3)P-induced partial membrane penetration of the domain.
Direct Observation of Antifreeze Glycoprotein-Fraction 8 on Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interfaces Using Atomic Force Microscopy

The adsorption of antifreeze glycoprotein-fraction 8 (AFGP 8) was studied via a drop deposition method onto hydrophobic (HOPG) and hydrophilic (mica) surfaces. On HOPG, preferential adsorption occurred at the hydrophilic step edges with homogeneous nucleation on hydrophobic planes. Individual particle sizes are consistent with aggregates, and the uniform size of these particles suggests aggregation is a preadsorption event. The adsorption of AFGP 8 onto hydrophilic mica was also consistent with aggregates of individual molecules. Adsorption studies of other glycosylated and nonglycosylated proteins suggest that not only is the adsorption event onto different surfaces influenced by glycosylation but also secondary and tertiary protein structure may play a critical role.
Can skills coaches be used to assess resident performance in the skills laboratory

Introduction The purpose of this study was to compare faculty ratings between live versus video-recorded resident performances and faculty versus skills coaches' ratings of video-recorded resident performances. Methods PGY1 residents were observed, video-recorded, and rated during a Verification of Proficiency examination on 4 stations (ie, suturing, laparotomy, central line, and cricothyroidotomy). One surgeon and 2 trained skills coaches independently rated each video-recorded performance (N = 25). The chi-square test was used to compare checklist ratings. Analysis of variance was used to compare global ratings. Intraclass correlations were used to evaluate inter-rater agreement. Results There were no statistical differences in faculty checklist ratings for live versus video-recorded performances (P > .05), and we found a nearly perfect interrater agreement, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.99 (P Conclusion When assessing residents' performances, use of video-recorded performance ratings and skills coaches may be viable alternatives to live ratings performed by surgical faculty.
An air-molding technique for fabricating PDMS planar patch-clamp electrodes

We present a new technique for fabricating planar patch electrodes in the laboratory. Planar electrodes are micromolded using a micron-sized stream of air to define an aperture in the silicone elastomer, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). We have previously demonstrated that planar PDMS electrodes make excellent patch electrodes after surface modification. We demonstrate single-channel measurements of the rSlo channel in Xenopus oocytes and whole-cell measurements in CHO and RBL mammalian cell lines, using planar PDMS electrodes.
Does Helicopter Emergency Medical Service Transfer Offer Benefit to Patients With Stroke

Background and Purpose— Helicopter transportation of patients with acute stroke who have received recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator is commonly considered the best option. We evaluated if transportation by helicopter can reduce complications and improve clinical outcomes in patients with acute stroke. Methods— We conducted a review of consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke transferred to our hospital after intravenous thrombolysis initiated at a referral center. Results— A total of 122 patient transportations were analyzed, 94 by air and 28 by ground. Time from activation of the transport system to arrival at our hospital was significantly shorter with air transportation (53 versus 68 minutes, P =0.04). Two complications were noted in the air group and no complications were noted in the ground group ( P =1.0). All other outcome measures were not significantly different between groups. Conclusions— Air transfer of patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with thrombolysis does not seem to impart any benefit to patient outcomes when compared with ground transport. Therefore, ground transport should be considered for these patients unless they are being considered for emergency endovascular rescue therapy.
Density functional theory study on the interaction between keto-9H guanine and aspartic acid

A theoretical study was performed using density functional theory (DFT) to investigate hydrogen bonding interactions in signature complexes formed between keto-9H guanine (Gua) and aspartic acid (Asp) at neutral pH. Optimized geometries, binding energies and the theoretical IR spectra of guanine, aspartic acid and their corresponding complexes (Gua-Asp) were calculated using the B3LYP method and the 6-31+G(d) basis set. Stationary points found to be at local minima on the potential energy surface were verified by second derivative harmonic vibrational frequency calculations at the same level of theory. AIM theory was used to analyze the hydrogen bonding characteristics of these DNA base complex systems. Our results show that the binding motif for the most stable complex is strikingly similar to a Watson-Crick motif observed in the guanine-cytosine base pair. We have found a range of hydrogen bonding interactions between guanine and aspartic acid in the six complexes. This was further verified by theoretical IR spectra of ω(C-H---O-H) cm−1 stretches for the Gua-Asp complexes. The electron density plot indicates strong hydrogen bonding as shown by the 2p z dominant HOMO orbital character.
Poverty, Charity, and Coercion in Elizabethan England

England struggled vigorously with the question of who qualified for assistance during the period when publicly supported poor relief was being developed, roughly 1550 to 1600. Many English towns, such as Hadleigh, Suffolk, experimented with methods of helping those poor people whom they considered deserving. But as urban leaders moved into forms of tax-based support, high costs led them to establish stricter criteria about who should be helped. By the end of the sixteenth century, English people were willing to pay taxes to support needy neighbors of good moral conduct who could not provide for themselves, but not idle or badly behaved people or outsiders.
Genomic sequence of the structural proteins of louping III virus: Comparative analysis with tick-borne encephalitis virus☆

Abstract The genomic RNA of louping ill virus coding for capsid, premembrane, membrane, and envelope proteins was cloned and sequenced. Hydrophilicity profiles of the deduced amino acid sequence shared homologous functional domains with other flaviviruses. The premembrane and envelope proteins contain N-glycosylation sites and conserved cysteine residues which are important for maintaining the secondary structures of the proteins. Sequence comparisons of louping ill envelope protein showed greater homology with tick-borne than mosquito-borne flaviviruses and greater homology with the western than the far eastern subtype of tick-borne encephalitis virus. With the capsid and membrane proteins, the degree of homology between louping ill and the western subtype was greater than that between the two subtypes, indicating very close evolutionary relationships between louping ill and the western subtype of tick-borne encephalitis. Thus, louping ill and tick-borne encephalitis may be varieties of a common tick-borne ancestral virus. The average amino acid sequence diversity between members of the tick-borne serogroup was significantly lower than that of mosquito-borne serogroups, suggesting that tick-borne flaviviruses have been subjected to different evolutionary immune selection pressure from the mosquito-borne viruses. Using the published model of tick-borne encephalitis envelope protein and our sequence data on louping ill virus, we have identified three discontinuous peptides (amino acids 81–88, 207–212, and 230–234) which may represent critical molecular determinants within the receptor binding site of tick-borne flaviviruses and may provide a specific genetic marker for these viruses.
Expanding range of pulsed range sensors with active projection from spatial light modulators

LIDAR-based systems measure the time-of-flight of a laser source onto the scene and back to the sensor, building a wide field of view 3D raster image, but as a scanning process, there are problems associated with motion inside the scene over the duration of the scan. By illuminating the entire scene simultaneously using a broad laser pulse, a 2D camera equipped with a high speed shutter can measure the time-of-flight over the entire field of view (FOV), thereby, recording an instantaneous snap-shot of the entire scene. However, spreading the laser reduces the range. So what is required is a programmable system that can track multiple regions of interest by varying the field of regard to (1) a single direction, (2) the entire FOV, or (3) intermediate views of interest as required by the evolving scene environment. In this project, the investigators intend to add this variable illumination capability to existing instantaneous ranging hardware by using a liquid crystal spatial light modulator (SLM) beam steering system that adaptively varies the (single or multi) beam intensity profiles and pointing directions. For autonomous satellite rendezvous, docking, and inspection, the system can perform long-range sensing with a narrow FOV while being able to expand the FOV as the target object approaches the sensor. To this end in a previous paper, we analyzed the performance of a commercially available TOF sensor (3DVSystems' Zmini) in terms of the depth sensitivity versus target range and albedo. In this paper, we will analyze the laser system specifications versus range of field-of-view when beam steering is performed by means of a Boulder Nonlinear Systems' phase-only liquid crystal SLM. Experimental results show that the adjustable laser beam FOV extensively compensate the reflected image grayscale from objects at long range, and prove the feasibility of expanding range with the projection from the SLM.
Metabolic effects of troglitazone on fat-induced insulin resistance in the rat

Troglitazone is a new orally active hypoglycemic agent that has been shown to ameliorate insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia in both diabetic animal models and non—insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) subjects. To determine whether this drug could prevent the development of diet-induced insulin resistance and related abnormalities, we studied its effect on insulin resistance induced by high-fat feeding in rats. Normal male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a high-fat diet for 3 weeks with and without troglitazone as a food mixture (0.2%) or were fed normal chow. In vivo insulin action was measured using a euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp at two different insulin infusion rates, 4 (submaximal stimulation) and 40 (maximal stimulation) mU/kg/min. Fat feeding markedly reduced the submaximal glucose disposal rate ([GDR], 26.4 ± 1.3 v 37.5 ± 1.4 mg/kg/min, P < .01) and maximal GDR (55.9 ± 1.3 v 64.5 ± 1.3 mg/kg/min, P < .05), reduced the suppressibility of submaximal hepatic glucose production ([HGP], 3.2 ± 0.9 v 1.5 ± 0.5 mg/kg/min, P < .05), and resulted in hyperlipidemia. Troglitazone treatment did not affect any of these parameters. Insulin resistance induced by fat feeding is the first experimental model in which troglitazone failed to correct or partially correct the insulin resistance.
Application of 1-(N-β-Hydroxyethyl-4-piperidyl)-3-(4-piperidyl)-propane in the Mannich Reaction I: Substituted β-Aminoketones

The Mannich reaction has been successfully performed using 1-(N- β -hydroxyethyl-4-piperidyl)-3-(4-piperidyl)propane (4-DI-PIP-OL). A series of Mannich bases has been prepared employing 4-DI-PIP-OL and various ketones. Characteristic infrared absorption bands for groups are recorded. The compounds are to be screened for possible pharmacological activity.
A unified model of neutron-star magnetic fields

STRONGLY magnetized neutron stars are believed to be at the heart of a number of astrophysical systems, notably pulsars and X-ray binaries. Although the magnetic field is an important determinant in the behaviour of such systems, the origin and stability of the field is the subject of conflicting observational and theoretical evidence. Here I describe a new model of neutron-star magnetic moments, by which the fields are generated as the neutron star is born, and follow the evolution of the field over a Hubble time. With realistic thermal evolution and conductivities, isolated neutron stars will maintain large magnetic fields for more than 1010 years. In addition, I show how mass accretion on to neutron stars can reduce the field strength1,2. This model of field generation and decay can explain a wide variety of observed systems.
A Brittle to Ductile Transition in Ice under Tension

Abstract Experiments have revealed a brittle to less-brittle transition in polycrystalline ice Ih slowly strained (10−6 s1) under uniaxial tension at temperatures from −20°C to −5°C. The transition occurs at a ‘critical grain size’ (≃ 1–5 mm) where the stress to nucleate cracks equals the stress to propagate them. The tensile strength of more coarsely-grained aggregates is controlled by crack nucleation and obeys an expression of the Hall-Fetch type; viz. [sgrave]TN − [sgrave]'i+k'd−½, when [sgrave]′i and k′ are experimentally determined materials parameters and d is grain size. The strength of more finely-grained material appears to be controlled by crack propagation and is given by an expression of the form [sgrave]Tp = Kd−½ where K is another materials parameter.
Heinrich events: Massive late Pleistocene detritus layers of the North Atlantic and their global climate imprint

[1] Millennial climate oscillations of the glacial interval are interrupted by extreme events, the so-called Heinrich events of the North Atlantic. Their near-global footprint is a testament to coherent interactions among Earth's atmosphere, oceans, and cryosphere on millennial timescales. Heinrich detritus appears to have been derived from the region around Hudson Strait. It was deposited over approximately 500 ± 250 years. Several mechanisms have been proposed for the origin of the layers: binge-purge cycle of the Laurentide ice sheet, jokulhlaup activity from a Hudson Bay lake, and an ice shelf buildup/collapse fed by Hudson Strait. To determine the origin of the Heinrich events, I recommend (1) further studies of the timing and duration of the events, (2) further sedimentology study near the Hudson Strait, and (3) greater spatial and temporal resolution studies of the layers as well as their precursory intervals. Studies of previous glacial intervals may also provide important constraints.