cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An early estimate for the size of cycle 23

The maximum amplitude for the next sunspot cycle is estimated on the basis of inferred statistical trends and associations from the last 12 cycles. Specific attention is given to the extrapolation of the inferred long-term upward trend against time of the maximum amplitude RM which is the maximum value of the smoothed sunspot number for a given cycle. Also examined in depth are the apparent inherent differences found in even- and odd-numbered sunspot cycles. RM is plotted vs cycle number, and RM is plotted against RM for odd-following cycle pairs. RM values are shown to be greater than 110.6 for six of the last six sunspot cycles, and the trend suggests that cycle 23 should have RM of more than 150 particularly in light of the fact that the odd-following cycle is always larger than the even cycle. Evidence is shown to predict an RM of at least 176.4, making cycle 23 one of the largest of the modern era.
Stability of attractors formed by inertial particles in open chaotic flows.

Particles having finite mass and size advected in open chaotic flows can form attractors behind structures. Depending on the system parameters, the attractors can be chaotic or nonchaotic. But, how robust are these attractors? In particular, will small, random perturbations destroy the attractors? Here, we address this question by utilizing a prototype flow system: a cylinder in a two-dimensional incompressible flow, behind which the von Karman vortex street forms. We find that attractors formed by inertial particles behind the cylinder are fragile in that they can be destroyed by small, additive noise. However, the resulting chaotic transient can be superpersistent in the sense that its lifetime obeys an exponential-like scaling law with the noise amplitude, where the exponent in the exponential dependence can be large for small noise. This happens regardless of the nature of the original attractor, chaotic or nonchaotic. We present numerical evidence and a theory to explain this phenomenon. Our finding makes direct experimental observation of superpersistent chaotic transients feasible and it also has implications for problems of current concern such as the transport and trapping of chemically or biologically active particles in large-scale flows.
Localization of granules stained artifactually with the Fink-Heimer technique in certain brain stem nuclei of the pigeon

Sections of normal pigeon brain treated with the Fink-Heimer technique frequently show granular deposits, suggestive of degenerating synaptic terminals, in relation to the soma of cells in the nucleus ruber and formatio reticularis. Electron microscopic examination of such reactive cells shows the argyrophilic granules to be intracellular inclusions which have the appearance of catecholamines.
Homology models of four Agaricus bisporus tyrosinases

Partially purified tyrosinase from the white button mushroom Agaricus bisporus is available commercially and is a widely used experimental model for the study of tyrosinase. The structure of an H(2)L(2) tetrameric form of the mushroom enzyme was recently determined by X-ray crystallography. In this structure the two H subunits originate from the PPO3 gene, and the two L subunits are formed by a protein of unknown function with a lectin-like fold. However, the X-ray structures and oligomeric states of the mushroom PPO1, PPO2, PPO4, and PPO5 gene products remain unknown. Commercial mushroom tyrosinase powder is a mixture containing several or all of these tyrosinases, so knowledge of their structures should provide insight regarding interpretation of experimental data generated using commercial preparations of the enzyme. The PPO3 structure (H-subunit) was used as a template to generate homology models for the structures of the other four tyrosinases, and the resulting structural models were evaluated. Due to the moderate to high percentage of sequence identity (~37-76%) between PPO3 and the other four tyrosinases, the backbone conformations of the predicted structures are very similar to that of PPO3. The alpha carbons of the six copper-coordinating histidines in the active site are positioned properly in the predicted structures, but their side chains are not oriented optimally for copper binding in some cases. Thus, the models are likely to provide an accurate representation of the actual tertiary structures, but they may have limited use in studies involving docking of substrates or inhibitors in the active site. Comparison of the homology models to the structure of molluscan hemocyanin enabled a prediction of the orientation of the enzyme's C-terminal domain over the active site in the latent enzyme.
Reactive unbalanced magnetron sputter deposition of polycrystalline TiN/NbN superlattice coatings

An opposed dual-cathode unbalanced magnetron sputtering system was used to deposit polycrystalline TiN/NbN superlattice coatings, with periods between 2.5 nm and 150 nm, on M2 tool steel substrates. Analytical techniques including X-ray diffraction. Auger spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the structure of the superlattice coatings. These showed that well-defined TiN and NbN layers were obtained, but the interfaces were not perfectly planar or abrupt. The mechanical properties of the superlattice coatings were characterized using a Vickers' microhardness tester and scratch tester. Microhardness values for the 6 μm thick superlattice coatings ranged from 1800 to 5200 kgf mm−2 (Hr 0.05) and were strongly dependent on several deposition parameters such as superlattice period λ, nitrogen partial pressure, the ratio of gas flow to each target, and the negative substrate bias Vs. The highest hardness values were obtained for λ≈6 nm and Vs=150 V. The scratch adhesion critical load of superlattice coatings ranged from 1.8 kgf at Vs=200 V to 11 kfg at Vs=34 V.
Bringing the field into the lab: supporting capture and replay of contextual data for the design of context-aware applications

When designing context-aware applications, it is difficult to for designers in the studio or lab to envision the contextual conditions that will be encountered at runtime. Designers need a tool that can create/re-create naturalistic contextual states and transitions, so that they can evaluate an application under expected contexts. We have designed and developed RePlay: a system for capturing and playing back sensor traces representing scenarios of use. RePlay contributes to research on ubicomp design tools by embodying a structured approach to the capture and playback of contextual data. In particular, RePlay supports: capturing naturalistic data through Capture Probes, encapsulating scenarios of use through Episodes, and supporting exploratory manipulation of scenarios through Transforms. Our experiences using RePlay in internal design projects illustrate its potential benefits for ubicomp design.
Structural basis of G protein–coupled receptor–G protein interactions

The interaction of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) with heterotrimeric G proteins represents one of the most fundamental biological processes. However, the molecular architecture of the GPCR-G protein complex remains poorly defined. In the present study, we applied a comprehensive GPCR-G protein alpha subunit (Galpha) chemical cross-linking strategy to map a receptor-Galpha interface, both before and after agonist-induced receptor activation. Using the M(3) muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M3R)-Galpha(q) system as a model system, we examined the ability of approximately 250 combinations of cysteine-substituted M3R and Galpha(q) proteins to undergo cross-link formation. We identified many specific M3R-Galpha(q) contact sites, in both the inactive and active receptor conformations, allowing us to draw conclusions regarding the basic architecture of the M3R-Galpha(q) interface and the nature of the conformational changes following receptor activation. As heterotrimeric G proteins as well as most GPCRs share a high degree of structural homology, our findings should be of broad general relevance.
Pseudothrombocytopenia in a Preterm Neonate

Severe and prolonged thrombocytopenia is not uncommon among ill preterm infants. Pseudothrombocytopenia, which has the appearance of severe and prolonged thrombocytopenia, has not been described in this population. We observed a preterm neonate who had EDTA-independent pseudothrombocytopenia and conclude that this condition should be considered when severe and prolonged thrombocytopenia occurs in a neonate in the absence of clinical signs of platelet-type hemorrhage.
A study of the number and reactivity of the sulfhydryl groups of ficin.

Abstract The reaction of ficin with N-ethylmaleimide revealed the presence of one SH-group in fresh preparations of the native enzyme. An additional SH-group reacted with N-ethylmaleimide in the presence of sodium dodecylsulfate. A total of approx. 4 SH-groups reacted with N-ethylmaleimide when ficin was treated with a reducing agent (NaBH4) in the presence of sodium dodecylsulfate. The proteolytic and esterolytic activities of ficin were completely inhibited by N-ethylmaleimide, p-chloromercuribenzoate, and iodoacetamide at a level of approx. 1 mole/mole of the enzyme. Deviations from this stoichiometric relationship were encountered, however, with solutions of ficin which had been stored for some time in a frozen state. Although HgCl2 inhibited ficin at a level of 0.5 mole/mole of enzyme, ultracentrifugal studies showed no evidence for the existence of a mercury dimer derivative. It is concluded that ficin contains at least two SH-groups, only one of which is directly involved in the catalytic site of the enzyme, and at least one disulfide bond which appears to be unessential for the maintenance of activity.
Compstat: A New Paradigm for Policing or a Repudiation of Community Policing?

This essay examines Compstat as a new paradigm of policing as presented in The Meaning of Compstat: A Theoretical Analysis by William F. Walsh and Gennaro F. Vito. Compstat has been implemented in some form by many police agencies in the U.S. as a means to produce a resultsoriented strategy to achieve effective crime control. Some view this as a revolutionary process replacing community policing, while others observe that Compstat is an evolutionary policing strategy synthesizing effective elements of the rational-legal bureaucratic and community policing-problem solving models of policing. The argument is made that Compstat has been very effective as a means of focusing police tactical efforts on specific crime and disorder problems while effectively maintaining consistency with the more philosophical and strategic elements of community policing. The key factor is the application of strategic management principles to create a new level of accountability for achieving goal-oriented results.
Shope rabbit papillorna-carcinoma complex a model system of HPV infections☆

Abstract To the busy, practicing dermatologist, an animal model system may appear to offer little benefit to patient diagnosis or management; however, animal model systems often can provide answers to vexing clinical problems that cannot be approached in patient studies because of ethical restrictions or logistic problems. Animal models are imperfect substitutes for human diseases; but because they share similar mechanisms, an animal model can provide an opportunity to test hypotheses that contribute to an understanding of the human counterparts. The Shope rabbit papilloma is remarkably similar in etiology and mechanism to many naturally occurring lesions induced by human papillomaviruses. In that sense, the Shope system can contribute to an understanding of human wart-virus infections. In a broader context, the Shope papilloma-carcinoma complex can provide an understanding of the determinants of neoplastic progression and of host interactions with neoplastic tissue. The purpose of this report will be to review some of the more important aspects of this experimental tumor system, especially those that are relevant to clinical situations. This review will be limited in scope. For more detailed coverage, the reader is referred to another article which we published elsewhere. 1
Preclinical and Clinical Pharmacology of Efegatran (LY294468) : A Novel Antithrombin for the Treatment of Acute Coronary Syndromes

Efegatran (LY294468), a tripeptide arginal in hibitor of the catalytic site of thrombin, is being devel oped as a parenteral anticoagulant for the treatment of acute coronary syndromes. Efegatran was studied in a canine model of coronary artery thrombosis to determine its ability to prevent thrombus formation and as an ad junctive anticoagulant to thrombolysis, in phase I clinical studies, and phase II clinical studies in unstable angina. In the preclinical in vivo studies in dogs, efegatran pro duced a dose-dependent increase in clotting times and demonstrated a selectivity for thrombin time (TT) changes. The activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT)-TT ratio (that is, based on the dose to double each clotting time) determined in dogs from ex vivo blood samples was 8: 1. This observation was similar to that obtained during the phase I studies in normal volunteers where the APTT-TT ratio was 12:1. The canine and hu man clotting systems responded similarly at doses of efe gatran where comparisons could ...
A study of chemical carcinogenesis. 59. Improved photochemical synthesis of 5-methylchrysene derivatives and its application to the preparation of 7,8-dihydro-7,8-dihydroxy-5-methylchrysene

Preparation des methyl-5-, (methoxy-2 (ou -8) methyl-5) chrysenes. Le dihydrodiol du titre est prepare a partir du methyl-5 chrysenol-8
Cardiovascular disease and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids.

Purpose of review Of all known dietary factors, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids may be the most protective against death from coronary heart disease. New evidence has confirmed and refined the cardioprotective role of these fatty acids. Recent findings Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation reduces the risk of sudden cardiac death and death from any cause within 4 months in post-myocardial infarction patients. Evidence continues to accrue for benefits in the primary prevention of coronary heart disease and stroke, and an anti-arrhythmogenic mechanism is emerging as the most likely explanation. Summary Current evidence suggests that individuals with coronary artery disease may reduce their risk of sudden cardiac death by increasing their intake of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids by approximately 1 g per day.
Nuclear quadrupolar spin-lattice relaxation in the amorphous state

Abstract It is proposed that the nuclear quadrupole spin-lattice relaxation in glasses is due to interaction of solitons with the nuclear quadrupole moment. The magnitude of the interaction is estimated and the resulting temperature dependence of the spin-lattice relaxation time is compared to experiment.
The Impact of Power on Information Processing Depends on Cultural Orientation

Two studies show that different culturally based concepts of interpersonal power have distinct implications for information processing. People with a vertical individualist (VI) cultural orientation view power in personalized terms (power is for gaining status over and recognition by others), whereas people with a horizontal collectivist (HC) cultural orientation view power in socialized terms (power is for benefitting and helping others). The distinct goals associated with these power concepts are served by different mindsets, such as stereotyping others versus learning the individuating needs of others. Therefore, for high-VI individuals, making personalized power salient increases stereotyping in processing product information. That is, they recognize better information that is congruent with their prior product expectations, relative to their recognition of incongruent information. In contrast, for high-HC people, making socialized power salient increases individuating processes, characterized by better memory for incongruent information.
Growth and Institutions

Amain development in growth economics in recent years has been to point at the fundamental role of institutions in the growth process. However, few studies have led so far to precise policy recommendations beyond the general claims about the importance of property right enforcement. This is largely due to the difficulty of defining the term ‘‘institutions’’. North and Thomas (1973) developed the notion that ‘‘social infrastructure’’ reduces uncertainty and diminishes transaction costs. Some authors have emphasized the importance of property right protection and its impact on entrepreneurship; others have concentrated on regulatory institutions in financial, labor, or product markets, but never with a detailed modeling of how those institutions impact the growth process which could be confronted to data. In this paper, we use the Aghion–Howitt model of growth with qualityimproving innovations, to look at more specific aspects of the relationship between institutions, institutional change, and productivity growth. The first section is devoted to the relationship between financial development and convergence, and argues that financial development is a main determinant of a country’s ability to converge in growth rates and/or in levels of GDP per capita towards the technological frontier. The following section looks at the relationship between productivity growth and product market competition. It shows the opposite effects that competition can have on innovation incentives in different types of sectors, and the implication for the overall effect of competition on productivity growth when the economy as a whole is considered. The last section develops the notion of appropriate institutions, showing how different types of institutions or policies maximize growth at different stages of technological development.
Significance of the Molecular Architecture in Turbulent Drag Reduction

THE most likely explanation of drag reduction in dilute polymer solutions lies in the behaviour of the individual molecules of the solute. In polyethylene oxide solutions drag reduction exists in the limit of infinite dilution1; this supports this assumption and shows the importance of the interactions of individual polymer molecules with the surrounding solvent. The most important factor influencing such interactions must be the molecular architecture of the additive molecules. Recent investigations on polyacrylic acid and DNA substantiate this hypothesis by showing that the less flexible helical conformation gives greater drag reduction than the random coil2,3.
Inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma development in hepatitis B virus transfected mice by low dietary casein

In a comprehensive human ecological study, primary liver cancer has been shown to be highly significantly associated with 1) the prevalence of persistent infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and 2) plasma cholesterol concentrations that are, in turn, associated with the consumption of animal based foods. In rat studies, aflatoxin-induced hepatocellular carcinoma is substantially prevented by decreasing the intake of animal based protein (casein), a hypercholesterolemic nutrient. Thus the development of primary liver cancer associated with persistent HBV infection or with aflatoxin exposure may be controlled by reduced intake of animal-based proteins. Transgenic mice transfected with an HBV gene fragment containing the viral transactivator of hepatis B virus, HBx, which induces the formation of hepatocellular carcinoma, were used to examine the ability of dietary casein to modify tumor formation. Reducing the concentration of dietary casein to 6% from the traditional level of 22% markedly inhibited (by 75%) hepatic tumor formation in these transgenic mice. Tumor development also was substantially altered by interchanging dietary casein concentration well after tumor development had begun (at 8 months), increasing by 173% from the expected yield when casein intake was increased and decreasing by 99% when casein was reduced. These findings suggest that the development of liver tumor formation among individuals persistently infected with HBV may be controlled by minimizing or eliminating the intake of animal protein-based foods.
eta photoproduction from threshold through the S11(1535) resonance.

We study photoproduction of {eta} mesons off protons in the effective Lagrangian approach. Unlike the {pi}{sup 0} case, {eta} photoproduction at threshold is strongly dominated by resonance excitation. The quantity ({chi}{Gamma}{sub {eta}}){sup 1/2}{ital A}{sub 1/2}/{Gamma}{sub {ital T}}, characteristic of the photoexcitation of the {ital S}{sub 11}(1535) resonance and its decay into the {eta}-nucleon channel, of interest to hadron models, is determined to be (0.22{plus minus}0.02){times}10{sup {minus}3} MeV{sup {minus}1} from the existing data.
Aluminum metal combustion in water revealed by high-speed microphotography

In high explosives designed for air blast cratering fragmentation and underwater applications metallic additives chemically react with the oxidizer and are used to tailor the rate of energy delivery by the expansion medium. Although the specific mechanism for sustained metal combustion in the dense detonation medium remains in question it is generally accepted that the fragmentation of the molten particle and disruption of its oxide layer are a necessity. In this study we use high speed microphotography to examine the ignition and combustion of small 25-76 jim diameter and 23 mm long aluminum wires rapidly heated by a capacitor discharge system in water. Streak and framing photographs detailing the combustion phenomenon and the fragmentation of the molten aluminum were obtained over periods of 100 nsec - 100 j. tsec with a spatial resolution of 2 . im. The wire temperature was determined as a function of time by integrating the circuit equation together with the energy equation for an adiabatic wire and incorporating known aluminum electrical resistivity and temperature functions of energy density in the integration. In order for the aluminum to sustain a rapid chemical reaction with the water we found that the wire temperature has to be raised above the melting temperature of aluminum oxide. The triggering mechanism for this rapid reaction appears to be the fragmentation of the molten aluminum from the collapse of a vapor blanket about
Differential effects of mutant SOD1 on protein structure of skeletal muscle and spinal cord of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: role of chaperone network.

Protein misfolding is considered to be a potential contributing factor for motor neuron and muscle loss in diseases like Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Several independent studies have demonstrated using over-expressed mutated Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (mSOD1) transgenic mouse models which mimic familial ALS (f-ALS), that both muscle and motor neurons undergo degeneration during disease progression. However, it is unknown whether protein conformation of skeletal muscle and spinal cord is equally or differentially affected by mSOD1-induced toxicity. It is also unclear whether heat shock proteins (Hsp′s) differentially modulate skeletal muscle and spinal cord protein structure during ALS disease progression. We report three intriguing observations utilizing the f-ALS mouse model and cell-free in vitro system; (i) muscle proteins are equally sensitive to misfolding as spinal cord proteins despite the presence of low level of soluble and absence of insoluble G93A protein aggregate, unlike in spinal cord, (ii) Hsp′s levels are lower in muscle compared to spinal cord at any stage of the disease, and (iii) G93ASOD1 enzyme-induced toxicity selectively affects muscle protein conformation over spinal cord proteins. Together, these findings strongly suggest that differential chaperone levels between skeletal muscle and spinal cord may be a critical determinant for G93A-induced protein misfolding in ALS.
House style preference and meanings across taste cultures

Theorists have speculated that taste cultures differ in their design preferences. To test this, we interviewed 150 adults (30 representing each of the five taste cultures) in central Ohio. We obtained their responses to photographs of house exteriors representing 15 different styles. Did the taste cultures differ as predicted by the theorists? Not really. The results showed strong similarities in the responses across the groups. However, the similarities decreased as the educational/occupational distance between the groups increased. In findings echoing many other studies, we found strong similarities with highest preferences for the Tudor style, and highest friendliness score for the Farm style. Even for style, preference is not a matter of taste. Widely different groups show commonalities.
Working With Harold Guetzkow: Reflections From a Last Link in the Chain

In 2001, Harold Guetzkow reached out to Kent Kille, a scholar beginning his academic career, and subsequently helped inspire and support a project that culminated in the publication of the edited volume The UN Secretary-General and Moral Authority: Ethics and Religion in International Leadership. This article recounts the project, which would turn out to be the final research engagement by Guetzkow at the end of a long and storied academic career, and presents impressions from the author of Guetzkowâs ongoing search for knowledge, his supportive mentoring role, and his conscientious commitment to the place of ethics in global affairs.
Physiological and anatomical circuitry between Agouti-related protein and leptin signaling.

Agouti-related protein (AGRP) is an orexigenic neuropeptide that acts via central melanocortin receptors, and whose messenger RNA (mRNA) levels are elevated in leptin-deficient mice. Fasting associated with a decline in circulating leptin normally causes a 15-fold elevation of hypothalamic Agrp mRNA levels but has no effect in leptin-deficient mice. Chronic hyperleptinemia associated with the tubby and Cpefat mutations has no effect on Agrp mRNA levels, but short term leptin administration causes a 17% reduction of Agrp mRNA levels in nonmutant mice and a 700% reduction in leptin-deficient mice. In young nonobese animals, melanocortin receptor blockade associated with the Ay mutation causes complete resistance to leptin-induced weight loss. Dual in situ hybridization reveals that Agrp-expressing neurons in the medial portion of the arcuate nucleus constitute a subpopulation different from Pomc-expressing neurons, and that a significant proportion of Agrp-expressing neurons (10–25%) coexpresses the leptin ...
Multiplexed Imaging of Nanoparticles in Tissues Using Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Imaging of nanomaterials in biological tissues provides vital information for the development of nanotherapeutics and diagnostics. Multiplexed imaging of different nanoparticles (NPs) greatly reduces costs, the need to use multiple animals, and increases the biodistribution information that can enhance diagnostic applications and accelerate the screening of potential therapeutics. Various approaches have been developed for imaging NPs; however, the readout of existing imaging techniques relies on specific properties of the core material or surface ligands, and these techniques are limited because of the relatively small number of NPs that can be simultaneously measured in a single experiment. Here, we demonstrate the use of laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI-MS) in an imaging format to investigate surface chemistry dictated intraorgan distribution of NPs. This new LDI-MS imaging method enables multiplexed imaging of NPs with potentially unlimited readouts and without additional labeling of the NPs. It provides the capability to detect and image attomole levels of NPs with almost no interferences from biomolecules. Using this new imaging approach, we find that the intraorgan distributions of same-sized NPs are directly linked to their surface chemistry.
Real-time monitoring of the ozonolysis of unsaturated organic monolayers.

The reaction of ozone with unsaturated organic molecules at the air–water interface of a pendant drop was followed by axisymmetric drop shape analysis (ADSA).
Local flaps for forefoot and midfoot reconstruction

Reconstruction of the foot can be a challenging and rewarding endeavor. Knowledge of underlying medical problems and mechanical causes of wounds of the forefoot and midfoot are essential for a successful outcome. A diligent preoperative examination and workup are paramount in choosing the appropriate therapy. The degree of vascular patency must be assessed before any definitive reconstruction is undertaken. Adequate debridement and wound care are paramount. Coverage of the dorsal and plantar, forefoot, and midfoot wounds can be performed with a variety of techniques. Meticulous surgical technique, as well as attention to mechanical or medical causes for recurrence, are the final cornerstones of successful reconstruction of the foot.
The effect of antibiotics on hepatic lipid metabolism following small bowel bypass.

Abstract To evaluate the hypothesis that hepatic lipid accumulation following small intestinal bypass may be related to bacterial overgrowth in the defunctionalized small bowel, hepatic lipid metabolism was evaluated in rats with small intestinal bypass treated and not treated with antibiotics. Small bowel bypass in nutritionally obese rats decreased body weight and food intake when compared to sham-operated controls. Antibiotic-treated rats ate less than did the rats not receiving antibiotics. Small intestinal bypass did not increase hepatic lipid accumulation in no-antibiotic treated rats. The small intestinal bypass rats receiving antibiotics had less total hepatic lipid and less hepatic triglyceride than did sham-operated controls and less hepatic lipid than did the rats not receiving antibiotics. Decreasing the bacterial population of the defunctionalized small bowel is associated with changes in hepatic lipid metabolism in rats with small bowel bypass. These changes may be produced by alterations in nutrient intake or by elimination of a “toxic” substance produced by small bowel bacterial overgrowth.
The Use of Stomatal Chloroplast Number for Rapid Determination of Ploidy Level in Maize

The usefulness of using the chloroplast number in epidermal guard cells as an indirect ploidy indicator was evaluated on seed-grown and tissue culture-derived maize plants. For seed-grown plants, two maize genotypes (B89 and R75) which had both diploid and tetraploid seeds available were used as experimental materials. The ploidy levels of seed-grown plants were confirmed by flow cytometric analysis of nuclear suspensions from these plants. For regenerated plants, haploid and diploid levels were examined and the ploidy levels of these plants were determined by chromosome counts of cells from root tips. A positive relationship between the chloroplast number and ploidy level was observed for both seed-grown and regenerated plants. The stomatal guard cells of tetraploid plants had nearly double the number of chloroplasts as the diploid plants. Similar results were found from the regenerated plants. The differences in the mean chloroplast number between diploid and tetraploid seed-grown plants and between haploid and diploid regenerated plants were highly significant. The results of this study demonstrate that counting chloroplasts in guard cells can be an efficient means of screening a large number of plants for ploidy levels. In addition, this study suggests the possibilities of using this method for detecting contaminated seed lots by different ploidy seed and for distinguishing plants of different genotypes.
Serial plasma procalcitonin levels in patients requiring admission to liver ITU with paracetamol induced acute liver failure

Introduction Patients with paracetamol-induced acute liver failure have a clinical state resembling septic shock. There is a high frequency of bacterial infection in these patients contributing to the development of multiorgan failure. In the normal liver, Kupffer cells play a major role in clearing bacteria from portal blood. The usual signs of sepsis cannot be used to differentiate between severe hepatic necrosis and bacterial infection. Procalcitonin (PCT) has been reported to be a selective inflammatory marker that rises in bacterial infection but not in non-infection related inflammation. Possible sources of PCT include monocytes and hepatocytes. We hypothesised that levels of PCT might assist in the differentiation of bacterial infection from toxic inflammatory insult. Method: Serial plasma PCT was measured daily, using a chemiluminescent immunoassay assay in 22 patients admitted with PIALF until either day 5 or discharge and levels compared with APACHE 11 scores, conventional inflammatory markers, liver function tests and microbiological cultures. Results: From a total of 22 patients 11 survived with medical support alone and 11 did not (seven died, four received liver transplants). A total of 35 blood, 15 urine, 16 sputum cultures were prepared: four endotracheal sputum cultures were positive. Eighty-one daily plasma samples were collected for PCT measurement (Table 40). Upon admission the following results were obtained: APACHE 11 (4–34) median 19; PCT (1.7–72.1) median 10.6 ng ml−1; INR (2–>15) median 3.6; AST (151–17080) median 8726 IU litre−1. PCT in non-infected patients was (0.9–123.8) median 9.4 ng ml−1. PCT on day of positive culture was (2.3–72.2) median 42.9 ng ml−1. Conclusion In patients with paracetamol-induced acute liver failure PCT is significantly higher than in normal controls and correlates with daily APACHE II score independently of the severity of liver insult, however, admission PCT does not correlate with survival. PCT did not specifically rise in those patients who developed chest infection and therefore does not appear to be a useful marker of bacterial infection in this group of patients.
The small-eye mutation results in abnormalities in the lateral cortical migratory stream

Mice with homozygous mutations of the Pax-6 gene exhibit a constellation of developmental problems including the absence of eyes and nasal cavities and problems in the movement of neuroblasts out of the germinal epithelium. In this paper, we demonstrate further disturbances in neuronal migration. Normally, cells produced along the lateral ventricles move laterally across the pallium, ultimately coming to reside in the lateral neocortex and primary olfactory cortex. In mutant animals, these cells continue to migrate to the pial surface of the brain.
Drosophila Wee1 Interacts with Members of the γTURC and Is Required for Proper Mitotic-Spindle Morphogenesis and Positioning

Summary Background : Wee1 kinases delay entry into mitosis by phosphorylating and inactivating cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1). Loss of this activity in many systems, including Drosophila , leads to premature mitotic entry. Results : We report here that Drosophila Wee1 ( dwee1 ) mutant embryos show mitotic-spindle defects that include ectopic foci of microtubule organization, formation of multipolar spindles from adjacent centrosome pairs, and promiscuous interactions between neighboring spindles. Furthermore, centrosomes are displaced from the embryo cortex in dwee1 mutants. These defects are not observed to the same extent in embryos in which nuclei also enter mitosis prematurely as a result of a lack of checkpoint control or in embryos with elevated Cdk1 activity. dWee1 physically interacts with members of the γ-tubulin ring complex (γTuRC), and γ-tubulin is phosphorylated in a dwee1 -dependent manner in embryo extracts. Conclusions : Some of the abnormalities in dwee1 mutant embryos cannot be explained by premature entry into mitosis or bulk elevation of Cdk1 activity. Instead, dWee1 is also required for phosphorylation of γ-tubulin, centrosome positioning, and mitotic-spindle integrity. We propose a model to account for these requirements.
Mendelian inheritance of melanism in the garter snake Thamnophis sirtalis

The results of 11 captive matings among nine female and six male descendents of six wild-caught female common garter snakes from polymorphic populations near Lake Erie confirm that melanism is inherited as a simple Mendelian trait and is recessive to a striped pattern. The make-up of litters born to 71 wild-caught females from five sites corroborate this result: striped females never produced all melanistic litters and the frequency of entirely striped, mixed, and entirely melanistic litters conforms to expectations based on estimated allele frequencies. Possible explanations for a previously reported non-Mendelian inheritance of melanism include the occurrence of a somatic mutation or bias in sperm production and fertilization ability.
The Caenorhabditis elegans Locus lin-15, a Negative Regulator of a Tyrosine Kinase Signaling Pathway, Encodes Two Different Proteins

The Caenorhabditis elegans locus lin-15 negatively regulates an intercellular signaling process that induces formation of the hermaphrodite vulva. The lin-15 locus controls two separate genetic activities. Mutants that lack both activities have multiple, ectopic pseudo-vulvae resulting from the overproduction of vulval cells, whereas mutants defective in only one lin-15 activity appear wild-type. lin-15 acts non-cell-autonomously to prevent the activation of a receptor tyrosine kinase/ras signaling pathway. We report here the molecular characterization of the lin-15 locus. The two lin-15 activities are encoded by contiguous genomic regions and by two distinct, non-overlapping transcripts that may be processed from a single mRNA precursor by trans-splicing. Based on the DNA sequence, the 719- and 1,440-amino acid lin-15 proteins are not similar to each other or to known proteins. lin-15 multivulva mutants, which are defective in both lin-15 activities, contain deletions and insertions that affect the lin-15 genomic region.
Diseases in Intercropping Systems

Intercropping, the simultaneous cultivation of multiple crop species, has been used throughout history and remains common among farmers of small landholdings in the tropics. One benefit of this practice may be disease control. In phenomenological research comparing disease in monocrops and intercrops, primarily due to foliar fungi, intercropping reduced disease in 73% of more than 200 studies. Nematodes are the primary pathogen for which disease increases are reported, but variability in disease impacts among studies can be high for all types of diseases. The mechanisms by which intercrops affect disease dynamics include alteration of wind, rain, and vector dispersal; modification of microclimate, especially temperature and moisture; changes in host morphology and physiology; and direct pathogen inhibition. The effect of intercropping on host density is a factor underlying many of these mechanisms. By synthesizing our growing understanding of mechanisms and their interactions with phenomenological studies, we may develop a theoretical grounding that allows us to improve the application of intercropping for tropical smallholders and industrial farmers alike.
Wind tunnel testing and numerical simulation on aerodynamic performance of a three-bladed Savonius wind turbine

The purpose of this research work is to investigate experimentally and computationally the feasibility of improving the performance of the vertical-axis Savonius wind turbine. The authors first performed a series of wind tunnel investigations on semi-cylindrical three-bladed Savonius rotor scale models with different overlap ratios and without overlap. These experiments were conducted in front of a low-speed subsonic wind tunnel at different Reynolds numbers. Pressures around the concave and convex surfaces of each blade, as well as the static torque for the rotor models, were measured. Using these experimental data, the authors calculated aerodynamic characteristics such as drag coefficients, static torque coefficients, and power coefficients. The authors then performed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations using the commercial CFD software FLUENT and GAMBIT to analyze the static rotor aerodynamics of those models. The experimental and computational results were then compared for verification. Three different models with different overlap ratios were designed and fabricated for the current study to find the effect of overlap ratios. The results from the experimental part of the research show a significant effect of overlap ratio and Reynolds number on the improvement of aerodynamic performance of the Savonius wind turbine. At higher Reynolds number, the turbine model without overlap ratio gives better aerodynamic coefficients, and at lower Reynolds number, the model with moderate overlap ratio gives better results.
Whisking in air: Encoding of kinematics by VPM neurons in awake rats

Rodent whisking behavior generates two types of neural signals: one produced by whisker contact with objects; the other by movements in air. While kinematic signals generated by contact reliably activate neurons at all levels of the trigeminal neuraxis, the extent to which the kinematics of whisking in air are reliably encoded at each level remains unclear. Previously, we showed that the responses of trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons in awake, head-fixed rats are correlated with whisking kinematic parameters, but that individual neurons may differ substantially in the reliability of their kinematic encoding. Here, we extend that analysis to neurons in the ventral posterior medial (VPM) nucleus. Three possible coding strategies were examined: (1) firing rate across an entire movement; (2) the probability of individual spikes as a function of the instantaneous movement trajectory; and (3) the coherence between spikes and whisking. While VPM neurons were clearly responsive to variations in whisker kinematics ...
“The Poison That Ruined the Nation”: Native American Men—Alcohol, Identity, and Traditional Healing:

Alcoholism and destructive drinking patterns are serious social problems in many Native American reservation and urban communities. This qualitative study of men from a single Great Lakes reservati...
Reversed-Phase Solvent-Gradient HPLC Retention Indexes of Drugs

A high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) system has been developed in which ionized basic drugs and nonionized drugs elute in efficient and reproducible bands. The effects of different HPLC systems and solvent-gradient rates on the reproducibility of retention times and normalized retention data were investigated. The retention indexes of 469 drugs were determined on this system and compared with the retention indexes of drugs in common from a previously reported retention index database. that uses a mobile phase of low pH that contains an organic amine modifier. This study investigated the reproducibility of retention time and normalized retention data for a selected group of ionized basic drugs and nonionized drugs using these parameters on different HPLC systems and under different gradient rates. The retention indexes of 469 drugs were determined in the developed system. These retention indexes were compared with the retention indexes of the same drugs determined under different reversed-phase conditions in a previously reported study (10).
Effects of the Porcine Oviduct-Specific Glycoprotein on Fertilization, Polyspermy, and Embryonic Development In Vitro

This study evaluated the effects of porcine oviduct-specific glycoprotein (pOSP) on in vitro fertilization (IVF), polyspermy, and development to blastocyst. Experiment 1 evaluated the effects of various concentrations (0‐100 mg/ml) of purified pOSP on fertilization parameters, including penetration, polyspermy, male pronuclear formation, and mean number of sperm penetrated per oocyte. Experiment 2 examined the ability of an antipOSP immunoglobulin G to inhibit the observed effects of pOSP on fertilization parameters. Experiments 3 and 4 examined various concentrations of pOSP (0‐100 mg/ml) on zona pellucida solubility and sperm binding, respectively. Lastly, experiment 5 assessed the effects of various concentrations of pOSP (0‐100 mg/ml) on the in vitro embryo cleavage rate and development to blastocyst. Pig oocytes matured and fertilized in vitro were used for all experiments. An effect of treatment (P , 0.05) was detected for pOSP on penetration, polyspermy, and mean number of sperm per oocyte. Concentrations for pOSP of 0‐50 mg/ ml had no effect on sperm penetration rates; however, compared with the control, 100 mg/ml significantly decreased the penetration rate (74% vs. 41%). Addition of 10‐100 mg/ml significantly reduced the polyspermy rate compared with the control (61% vs. 24‐29%). The decrease in polyspermy achieved by addition of pOSP during preincubation and IVF was blocked with a specific antibody to pOSP. No effect of treatment was observed on zona digestion time relative to the control; however, the number of sperm bound to the zona pellucida was significantly decreased by treatment (P , 0.05). Compared with the control, all concentrations of pOSP examined reduced the number of sperm bound per oocyte (45 vs. 19‐34). A treatment effect (P , 0.05) was observed for pOSP on embryo development to blastocyst but not on cleavage rates. Addition of pOSP during preincubation and fertilization significantly increased postcleavage development to blastocyst, but a synergistic stimulation on development was not detected when pOSP was included during in vitro culture. These results indicate that exposure to pOSP before and during fertilization reduces the incidence of polyspermy in pig oocytes, reduces the number of bound sperm, and increases postcleavage development to blastocyst. fertilization, oviduct
Intraoperative mass spectrometry of tumor metabolites

In oncologic surgery, establishing tumor margins while the surgery is in progress can be of paramount importance in ensuring maximal tumor resection and the sparing of normal tissue. This remains no easy task. Analyzing surgically resected tissue to determine the presence and type of cancer is a persistent challenge. Surgeons need information as quickly as possible to guide tumor resection, and the current method of tissue freezing, sectioning, and staining, followed by microscopic examination is not only time-consuming, limiting the number of samples that can be processed, but also not always sufficient in establishing the diagnosis. Is there a better way? Several recent papers (detailed below) have demonstrated the potential for a new form of mass spectrometry to be used in real-time to complement—or perhaps eventually replace—standard histopathological assessment of tumor tissue. In PNAS, Santagata et al. (1) present the use of intraoperative desorption electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) as a method of measuring a tumor-specific metabolite during brain cancer surgery. The metabolite signal provides diagnostic and prognostic information about the tumor and can also be used to help define tumor margins.