cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Broiler Litter in an Irrigated, Double-Cropped, Conservation-Tilled Rotation

Broiler production is increasing rapidly in the Southern Coastal Plain, and little research has been conducted to evaluate broiler litter applications on the sandy soils of the region. We conducted a 4-yr field study to determine optimum rates of broiler litter, its economic value, changes in soil tests to a depth of 90 cm, and effects on pathogens and nematodes. Summer crops were cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] for grain, and peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Winter crops were wheat (Triticum aesitivum L.) and oilseed canola (Brassica napus L.). Litter rates were 0, 4.5, 9.0, and 13.5 Mg ha -1 for each crop. Litter application increased yields of cotton, pearl millet, wheat, and canola and decreased yield of peanut. Average crop value increase from application of a megagram of broiler litter was estimated to be $42 ha -1 yr -1 when the application was made to all crops and $68 ha -1 yr - when none was applied to peanut. The mean cost of applied litter was approximately $12 Mg -1 . Surface soil P, K, Cu, Zn, and Mn were increased in direct relation to litter rate. Data indicate that it would be prudent to limit applications to about 4.5 Mg ha -1 . Litter applications had little effect on soil nematodes, but Rhizoctonia limb rot (Rhizoctonia solani AG-4) of peanut increased. Lodging of canola, due to Sclerotinia spp., was doubled by any application of broiler litter.
The relationship of brown humus to lignin

A fraction of organic matter called brown humus was studied in relation to plant lignins. Infrared analysis, methoxy content, and presence of certain phenolic groups showed that this material contains a lignin structure. Decomposition of corn roots showed that one of the first parts of the lignin molecule to be decomposed is by the loss of methoxy groups probably from 2,6-dimethoxyphenol part of the molecule. Studies withP. ochro chloron. Showed two transformations occurred in the decomposition of the lignin molecule: — (1) A demethylation and (2) a formation of carbonyl groups.
Epigenetic control of tumor suppression

Epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes is a major contributor to neoplastic transformation and is an area of intense research. Identification of genes that undergo cancer-specific CpG island hypermethylation in combination with repressive histone tail modifications (deacetylation and methylation) and correlation of these data with tumor stage, progression, and long-term prognosis are becoming increasingly common. The efforts directed toward elucidating the mechanisms of neoplastic tumor suppression catalyzed the convergence of epigenetics, chromatin remodeling, and pharmacology of epigenome-altering drugs. This review discusses the key findings and current concepts concerning the epigenetic control of tumor suppression and analyzes the role of DNA hypermethylation in conjunction with histone deacetylation and methylation profiles of tumor suppressor genes as it relates to epigenetic loss of function in malignancy. Examples arguing for hierarchic control and interdependent regulation within the cellular tumor suppression networks are also presented. Finally, the necessity of a human epigenome database integrating the continually produced experimental information for use by both researchers and clinicians for prospective translational multidisciplinary studies of tumor suppressor networks is rationalized.
Secrets of palm oil biosynthesis revealed

Globally, vegetable oils are harvested from a handful of oil crops at an annual rate exceeding 100 million tons (1). Most oils are used for human or animal consumption, although a minor fraction is derivatized to oleochemicals. More recently, an increasing amount of vegetable oil is being diverted to the production of biodiesel [i.e., fatty acid (FA) methylesters], and is an attractive feedstock for the so-called “drop-in” biofuels of the future, further increasing the demand on this commodity (2). Because of the commercial importance of vegetable oils, during the past 30 y, the biosynthesis of FAs and their derived acyl lipids, especially plant triacylglycerols (TAGs), has attracted a tremendous amount of scientific interest, resulting in the identification and characterization of the functions of most of the enzymes involved in their production and sequestration (3). In addition, researchers have attempted to understand the quantitative regulation of biosynthesis with the ultimate goal of increasing oil production in crops. Practically all investigations in this field have been conducted in developing embryos of oilseeds, most notably in Arabidopsis. As cDNA sequences of enzymes considered “rate-limiting” became available in the mid-1990s, increasing oil production in plants has become the “holy grail” of plant FA biochemistry (4, 5). However, even though there are more than a dozen reports of marginal increases of seed oil through genetic manipulation, channeling carbon intermediates to TAGs has had very limited success, and no high-oil engineered crop is on the market (6, 7). Only very recently a comprehensive analysis of oil palm mesoderm during fruit ripening was published by Tranbarger et al. (8). With this investigation, Tranberger et al. stepped “outside the box” (i.e., the seed) and delivered a first detailed insight into the compositional, hormonal, and transcriptional changes during the different phases of oil palm fruit development and compared their finding to the established knowledge of oilseed development. While comparing the transcriptomes and metabolomes of developing oil accumulating mesoderm of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) and sugar accumulating mesoderm of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), Bourgis et al. (9) follow a strategy that enables them to differentiate metabolic determinants of the respective tissues from other developmental phenomena.
Sensitive Age Parameters and other Factors in Conditioning to a Danger Call in Mallard Ducklings1

Zusammenfassung An 113 Entenkucken wurde untersucht, wie gut sie die Unterschiede zwischen zwei von Menschen gemachten Ruftonen lernen konnten. Die benutzten Tone waren ein Lockruf und ein Warnruf. 1 Den Lockruf hatten 45 Entchen, in 21 Gruppen geteilt, am ersten Lebenstag gelernt. Je alter sie dann wurden, desto leichter lernten sie den Warnruf. Das hangt vermutlich mit der zunehmenden Entwicklung der Fluchtreaktion zusammen. 2 Diese und 36 andere in 28 Gruppen geteilte Entchen lernten fast alle, sich auf den Warnruf hin zu verstecken. Im Alter von 36–60 Stunden dressierte Tiere behielten die Versteck-Reaktion viel langer als fruher oder spater dressierte. Also scheint die sensible Periode fur das Lernen dieser Reaktion zwischen 36 und 60 Stunden zu liegen. 3 Achtzehn Entchen, in 11 Gruppen wurden verschiedene Folgen kontrastierender Rufe geboten. Lockend wirken nur vielsilbige, warnend nur einsilbige Rufe; beide mussen verschiedene Klangfarbe haben. 4 Die angeborene stimmliche Antwort auf mannigfaltige Ruftone wurde an 35 Entchen untersucht. Nicht nur artspezifische mutterliche Rufe wurden beantwortet. 5 Neun Entchen ohne Gelegenheit zielgerichtet zu handeln, lernten keine Versteckreaktion auf den Warnruf. 6 Es wird vermutet, das die sensible Periode fur diese Reaktionen mit einer Pragung auf die Umgebung der Entchen zusammenhangt.
Franciscan melanges compared with olistostromes of Taiwan and Italy

Abstract Details of origin of Franciscan melanges are unknown, although subduction is accepted as the controlling process. Some melanges near plate boundaries in Taiwan and Italy are evidently olistostromes. How do Franciscan melanges compare with these? The Lichi melange and units of “argille scagliose” type in the Northern Apennines rest upon normal marine sediments. The time of accumulation was brief, as shown by limiting time brackets. These key types of evidence for olistostrome origin are rare or absent in the Franciscan, but the pervasive shearing would probably have obliterated such evidence. Similarities between the above-cited olistostromes and Franciscan melanges include the following: argillaceous matrix; large and small blocks of sedimentary rocks and ophiolites; phacoidal and joint-block shapes; soft-sediment deformation in some sandstone; rotation of blocks; extreme dispersal of distinctive rocks; reappearance of older rocks at younger levels. Collectively, these similarities suggest that Franciscan melanges were originally assembled by olistostrome accumulation. Differences between presumed olistostromes and the Franciscan include the following, in addition to stratigraphic relations mentioned above. The Lichi melange shows faint original gross layering where shearing is minimal. Franciscan melanges show various compositional units, but shearing allows tectonic explanations. Blueschist metamorphism is rare or absent in olistostromes of Taiwan and the Northern Apennines. It occurs in the Franciscan not only in random blocks, but also as extensive units of schist and phyllite near the structural top of the complex, toward the “hanging wall” (Great Valley sequence). In the structurally lowest levels, only zeolite facies metamorphism is prevalent. Similar generalities apply to ages of rocks at highest and lowest structural levels. The age distribution would be just the opposite if the entire Franciscan were simply an east-dipping pile of olistostromes. It is concluded that neither subduction alone nor olistostromes alone could have produced all the features of Franciscan melanges, but both played an important role. Critical original features of olistostromes have been modified or destroyed by recurrent underthrusting.
Efficient recognition of protein fold at low sequence identity by conservative application of Psi‐BLAST: application

Based on a study involving structural comparisons of proteins sharing 25% or less sequence identity, three rounds of Psi-BLAST appear capable of identifying remote evolutionary homologs with greater than 95% confidence provided that more than 50% of the query sequence can be aligned with the target sequence. Since it seems that more than 80% of all homologous protein pairs may be characterized by a lack of significant sequence similarity, the experimental biologist is often confronted with a lack of guidance from conventional homology searches involving pair-wise sequence comparisons. The ability to disregard levels of sequence identity and expect value in Psi-BLAST if at least 50% of the query sequence has been aligned allows for generation of new hypotheses by consideration of matches that are conventionally disregarded. In one example, we suggest a possible evolutionary linkage between the cupredoxin and immunoglobulin fold families. A thermostable hypothetical protein of unknown function may be a circularly permuted homolog to phosphotriesterase, an enzyme capable of detoxifying organophosphate nerve agents. In a third example, the amino acid sequence of another hypothetical protein of unknown function reveals the ATP binding-site, metal binding site, and catalytic sidechain consistent with kinase activity of unknown specificity. This approach significantly expands the utility of existing sequence data to define the primary structure degeneracy of binding sites for substrates, cofactors and other proteins.
Structure of Continental Margin off Gulf Coast of United States

Continuous seismic-reflection profiles were recorded along 15 lines across the continental margin of the Gulf of Mexico. The steep slopes off Florida and Yucatan (Florida and Campeche escarpments) appear to have been formed by construction of coral or algal reefs during the Cretaceous Period. The adjacent upper continental slope and continental shelf were formed by prograding and upbuilding of largely calcareous sediments after the death of the Cretaceous reef-building organisms. Off Louisiana, Texas, and part of Mexico the upper continental slope and the continental shelf were formed by progradation and upbuilding of terrigenous sediment contributed largely by the Mississippi River during the Tertiary Period. These sediments buried deeply much of the Early Cretaceous ree . Considerable alteration of the general structure off Louisiana and Texas resulted from contemporaneous intrusion of salt diapirs. Sediments in the basins between the diapirs were derived partly from the tops of the nearby salt intrusives. The Sigsbee escarpment at the seaward edge of the sedimentary prism off Louisiana and Texas is bordered by a broad ridge of diapirs, to which it may owe its origin. Although diapiric structures are best known north of the Sigsbee escarpment, others are present on the south, at the center of the Gulf basin, and as far south as Golfo de Campeche. During Early Cretaceous time the reef once almost surrounded the Gulf of Mexico, probably leaving only one narrow connection with the open ocean at the southeast. The narrow opening and the low relative sea level, indicated by reef structure and calcareous algae nearly 3,000 m below present sea level, suggest that water circulation was restricted during Early Cretaceous time. If it had been somewhat more restricted earlier, conditions could have been suitable for the widespread deposition of Late Triassic to Middle Jurassic salt that later fed the diapiric structures.
Exchange of genetic sequences of long terminal repeat and the env gene by a promiscuous primate type D retrovirus

Squirrel monkey retrovirus (SMRV) is a New World primate type D retrovirus. It was shown that SMRV-related sequences could be detected in another New World species, the skunk. It was further suggested that SMRV and an Old World primate type C retrovirus, baboon endogenous virus (BaEV), may have exchanged their env gene sequences. In this study, we sought to understand which sequences were exchanged between the genomic DNAs of SMRV and skunk. We also sought to determine the sequences exchanged between SMRV and BaEV. Here, we demonstrate that the long terminal repeat of SMRV is present in the skunk genome. We also show, by nucleotide sequence analysis, that the env gene that encodes the p15E glycoprotein of BaEV was most likely transduced from the corresponding gene of a primate type D retrovirus. Our results demonstrate that SMRV is a promiscuous virus with its pol gene homologous to the pol genes of type A, type B and avian type C viruses and a portion of its env gene homologous to the env genes of primate type C retroviruses. However, the primer binding sequence is unique to type D retroviruses. These kinds of recombination are likely to occur more than once in the evolution of retroviruses. The promiscuous nature of retroviruses and the recent incidence of unintended retroviral integration into a gene therapy patient underscore the importance of understanding how retroviral sequences are recombined among themselves and how they are integrated into the mammalian genome.
Effect of lesions of the locus coeruleus complex on the circadian rhythm of plasma corticosterone in the mouse

An apparently transient elevation of basal morning (08.00 h) plasma corticosterone levels in male mice was found 48 h after bilateral electrolytic lesions of the brainstem locus coeruleus complex but was not observed 6 weeks after lesioning.
Reduced light sensitivity and persistent photoconductivity in novel modulation doped heterostructures incorporating an n·GaAs/AlGaAs superlatt1ce as the high bandgap material

A short period 15 A/15 A GaAs/AlxGa1−xAs superlattice where only the GaAs layers are doped with Si donors has been incorporated in a GaAs/AlxGa1−xAs molecular beam epitaxial modulation doped heterostructure in place of the doped high bandgap ternary alloy. The removal of the donors from the AlxGa1−xAs eliminates the component of light sensitivity resulting from the deep persistent photoconductivity (PPC) traps present in this material. This results in a reduction in overall light sensitivity and an elimination of the PPC effect at 77K.
How computers can cure cultural diabetes

The networked computer offers an antidote to media junk food. Why not choose the healthy option, says Peter Lunenfeld
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic studies of PbO surfaces bombarded with He+, Ne+, Ar+, Xe+ and Kr+

Abstract The surface composition of PbO has been studied with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy after bombardment with several inert gas ions of 400 eV. The results show reduction of PbO to metallic Pb with the degree of damage following the order He+ > Ne+ >Ar+. Both Kr+ and Xe+ did not reduce the oxide. The depth of damage varied from ≈9 A for He+ to ≈1 A for Ar+ bombardment. The results were compared to a collisional and a thermal model of the sputtering process.
Retrieving knowledge from auditing log‐files for computer and network forensics and accountability

This paper analyzes and simulates the complexity of searching a particular database called a computer or network auditing log database. In order to observe behaviors of users in a computer or a computer network, system authorities in a particular domain first keep logs of all the actions conducted by the users. In general, we can grasp the users' actions by analyzing their actions in a computer system, or messages in a computer network, especially analyzing headers of packets in a particular network protocol. From this bunch of data (database), we can retrieve particular knowledge according to some requirements for computer and network forensics and accountability. For example, in a computer or network system, if at some point the fact that the content of a secret file is leaking has been already known, to figure out the reasons of the leaking, we can search partial or entire log-files to find out direct or indirect accesses to the file; since a user who accessed the secret before may send messages containing the secret to other users (the secret is leaking due to indirect accesses) via packets in a computer network, or via pipe/FIFO/Message-Queue in a computer system, finding the reasons of the leaking is not a trivial task. In this paper, we analyze and simulate the complexity of retrieving knowledge from the computer and network auditing log database for forensics and accountability. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Younger maternal age (at initiation of childbearing) and recurrent perinatal mortality.

Abstract Objective To assess whether young maternal age at initiation of childbearing is associated with recurrence of perinatal mortality (PM), as well as its components: stillbirth and neonatal death. Study design We conducted a population-based, retrospective cohort study on the Missouri maternally linked longitudinal data files comprising adolescent (10–19 years; n = 73,533) or mature (20–24 years; n = 78,618) mothers in their first pregnancy with follow-up in their second pregnancy to document the occurrence of PM or its components. The study covered the period 1989–2005. We used unconditional logistic regression modeling to generate odds ratios and to control for confounding. Results A history of perinatal mortality, stillbirth, or neonatal mortality increased the risk of a recurrence by 4–5 times. Among women with a history of PM or stillbirth in the first pregnancy, maternal age at initiation of pregnancy was not a risk factor for subsequent PM or its components. However, adolescent mothers with a history of neonatal mortality in the first pregnancy were about 5 times as likely to experience stillbirth in the second pregnancy, as compared to their mature counterparts. Conclusions Young maternal age at the initiation of childbearing is not associated with an overall increased risk of recurrent perinatal loss. However, prior history of neonatal mortality among teen mothers is strongly predictive of subsequent stillbirth.
Reference-based automatic visual inspection of electronic packaging using a parallel image processing system

We introduce the Advanced Thin Film Inspection System (ATFIS), a state-of-the-art automatic visual inspection (AVI) system developed by IBM that integrates sophisticated subsystems to inspect advanced multilayer electronic packaging. The image acquisition and 'image segmentation' (material discrimination) is based on a high-radiance illumination, multiband line scan cameras and the Low-level Image Segmentation Architecture (LISA). LISA employs a decision-theoretic approach that classifies pixels according to a decision function defined over a multidimensional 'feature space' (for example, local or global image statistics). The image processing and pattern analysis is based on the Parallel Image Processing System for Inspection (PIPSI) architecture. PIPSI's key features include exploitation of emerging hardware and software technologies; highly programmable to adapt quickly to changing functional requirements; and exploitation of image and operator parallelism, making it highly scalable to meet manufacturing requirements. The pattern analysis algorithm is a synthesis of reference-based comparison and design-rule analysis.
Design and Assembly Methods for Improving High Current Board-Component Connectivity

Development of higher performance silicon products often leads to more stringent demands on power delivery. Higher current sustainability is often a key parameter in successful power delivery design. One potential bottleneck in the delivery of power to the component is the printed circuit board (PCB) to component interface. However in many designs, the same interconnect structure is used for both the power and signal connection even though the requirements for power and signaling can be different. For example in current art, a substantially similar solder ball and pad design is used for both power and signal connections. This results in interconnects that may not be optimized for high current power delivery, and in turn lead to unnecessarily high power loss at the interconnect. Under this design archetype, higher current generally requires more power/ground solder balls and thus larger packages. In addition, these power connections compete with much-needed IO connections on the component. This paper discusses methods for separating and optimizing the power and signal interconnect structures. Example proof-of-concept instances are given using different component/board layout patterns and surface mount technology (SMT) structures. For example, one of these instances involves increasing BGA solder density to the point where solder may gang together during board assembly reflow (a design called ganged solder). Another example involves varying the board pad and via layout pattern and depth to accompany optimized high current socket contacts. The data indicates that employing such separation and optimization techniques can lead to a substantial drop in board and interconnect resistance. In each case, voltage gradient, temperature and resistance data is collected, and relative performance trends are discussed.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Growth hormone response to growth hormone-releasing factor in depression.

Abstract A blunted growth hormone (GH) response to clonidine and other pharmacologic stimuli has been reported in patients with depression. This blunted growth hormone response to clonidine had led to the speculation that there is a central alpha-2 adrenergic receptor subsensitivity in depression. This hypothesis is based on the assumption that the pituitary somatotroph response to growth hormone-releasing factor (GHRF) is not altered in depression. In the present preliminary study, the somatotroph response to GHRF in depressed patients and normal controls has been evaluated in four depressed patients and four age- and sex-matched controls. The GH response to GRF is highly variable both in normal individuals and in the depressed patients studied. Larger numbers of patients and controls must be studied before any definitive conclusions can be drawn about GH responses to GRF in depressed patients.
Timing of El Niño–Related Warming and Indian Summer Monsoon Rainfall

Abstract The relationship between all-India summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR) and the timing of (El Nino–Southern Oscillation) ENSO-related warming/cooling is investigated, using observational data during the period from 1881 to 1998. The analysis of the evolutions of Indo-Pacific sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies suggests that when ISMR is not below normal despite the co-occurrence of an El Nino event, warming over the eastern equatorial Pacific starts from boreal winter and evolves early so that the western-central Pacific and Indian Ocean are warmer than normal during the summer monsoon season. In contrast, when the more usual El Nino–dry ISMR relationship holds, the eastern equatorial Pacific starts warming rapidly only about a season before the reference summer so that the western-central Pacific and Indian Oceans remain cold during the monsoon season.
Commentary on neomodernism and evidence-based nursing: Implications for the production of nursing knowledge

The Whall, Sinclair and Parahoo 1 philosophic analysis is a vital process in the evolution of the evidence-based nursing (EBN) movement. As a social movement, EBN can generate new ideas about the nature of nursing practice. One step in their analysis was the examination of EBN discussions from 3 philosophy-of-science positions: modernism, postmodernism, and neomodernism. The first 2 are familiar, but the third, neomodernism, is a relatively recent perspective that has been revisited periodically in the literature since 1995. An elaboration of this perspective and its congruence with the EBN themes is offered here, to extend the authors’ philosophic analysis of EBN and bring additional insights into the role of practice in nursing knowledge development. Philosophy of science is in transition, moving beyond modernism and even postmodernism. This transition presents an exciting opportunity to reconsider philosophies of nursing science. Existing epistemologies of science range from Popper’s privileged view of scientific knowledge to Rorty’s pragmatic and pluralistic views that avoid privileging science above other means of generating knowledge. Pat definitions of scientific knowledge, truth, and progress are no longer taken for granted by nurses and other knowledge builders. It is an important time to participate in the dialouge about nursing philosophy.
Employee stock ownership and corporate control: An empirical study

Abstract This study reexamines the wealth and corporate control effects of employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) and finds that, the adoption of an ESOP is in general associated with positive wealth effects. However, the Polaroid court ruling significantly changed the market's perception by enhancing the antitakeover role of ESOPs. A significant negative market response is found only after the court ruling. Analysis of speculation and bid activity initiated after an ESOP adoption shows a significant decline in takeover related activity following the court decision. Regression analysis corroborates this evidence. Consistent with Stulz [ Journal of Financial Economics 20 (1988) 25–54] and Harris and Raviv [ Journal of Financial Economics 20 (1988) 55–86], the results also suggests a non-monotonic relationship between firm value and managerial ownership. The results support the Scholes and Wolfson [ Financial Management 49 (1990) 12–28] hypothesis that ESOPs are not primarily implemented for tax advantages.
Molar volume of argon along the melting curve up to 10 kbar

Abstract Earlier molar volume measurements of argon the melting curve by a weighing technique have been extended to 10 kbar and 255°K. Empirical expressions respresenting argon molar volume data from the triple point to 255°K are given.
Syndrome of inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone secondary to non-cirrhotic primary hepatocellular carcinoma.

Patient: Male, 71 Final Diagnosis: SIADH Symptoms: Cachexia • confusion Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Percutaneous liver biopsy Specialty: Oncology Objective: Rare disease Background: The syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) is usually seen in pulmonary malignancies, central nervous system disorders, and secondary to medications. SIADH has very rarely been encountered in primary hepatocellular carcinoma. Two cases were reported in Japan and 1 case in Spain after extensive investigation of the medical records. Case Report: We report a case of a 71-year-old man who presented with confusion, cachexia, and abdominal symptoms in the form of vomiting and abdominal discomfort. On the initial work-up, SIADH diagnosis was made. After an extensive work-up, the reason for SIADH turned out to be a newly diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma. The precipitating factor for the cancer was not identified by history or by work-up. No metastasis was identified. Liver functions were preserved but patient was severely malnourished. Conclusions: SIADH can occur as a para-malignant feature of the malignancy. In our case, it was related to the hepatocellular carcinoma, which is a malignancy very rare to cause SIADH.
Generalized Gaussian Quadrature Rules for Discontinuities and Crack Singularities in the Extended Finite Element Method

New Gaussian integration schemes are presented for the efficient and accurate evaluation of weak form integrals in the extended finite element method. For discontinuous functions, we construct Gauss-like quadrature rules over arbitrarily-shaped elements in two dimensions without the need for partitioning the finite element. A point elimination algorithm is used in the construction of the quadratures, which ensures that the final quadratures have minimal number of Gauss points. For weakly singular integrands, we apply a polar transformation that eliminates the singularity so that the integration can be performed efficiently and accurately. Numerical examples in elastic fracture using the extended finite element method are presented to illustrate the performance of the new integration techniques.
Overview of theoretical models for reaction rates

There is enormous recent interest in the development of models for rate processes because rates are an almost universal characterization in the physical and biological sciences. In this paper we provide an introduction to several of the problems to be discussed in greater depth by other speakers at a symposium held at the National Institutes of Health on May 6–8, 1985. This review will focus on (1) the Smoluchowski model for reaction rates together with its extension by Onsager, (2) first passage time formalism for discrete and continuous master equations and Fokker-Planck equations, (3) the Kramers model and its extensions, (4) diffusion in the presence of trapping centers.
Amplitude dependence of time of flight and its connection to chromaticity

In general, the time of flight of a charged particle in an accelerator will depend on the particle's transverse amplitude. This effect can become important in machines with large transverse emittances, such as muon accelerators. We will describe the effect, its physical origin, and the circumstances where it becomes important. We will then demonstrate that the effect is directly related to chromaticity. We will describe the effect on the longitudinal dynamics in various circumstances, including linacs and fixed field alternating gradient accelerators (FFAGs). We will describe methods for correcting the effect, particularly in FFAGs.
Meet the lodgers

Your house contains an entire ecosystem of organisms whose fate is in your hands, says evolutionary biologist Rob Dunn
Detergency study of the synergism between oily and particulate soil on polyester/cotton fabric

The removal of multiphase, multicomponent soils from fibrous substrates depends upon the nature of the soil mixture, the order of application, wash temperature, and type of detergent formulation. By studying these factors, we investigated the synergism between residual oil (triolein) and particulate soil (clay) on a durable press polyester/cotton fabric after laundering with four different detergents at wash temperatures of 27 and 49 C. To probe the interaction between clay and oil, fabric specimens were soiled with clay only, triolein only, clay followed by an application of triolein, and triolein followed by an application of clay. Four detergent formulations were used to launder the soiled fabrics, including one unbuilt liquid and three powdered detergents with different builder systems. The amount of residual oil (triolein) was determined by radiotracer technique, and the quantities of clay were determined by measuring aluminum by neutron activation. Reflectance measurements were used to calculate fabric whiteness. The soil distributions on and within the textile structure were obtained by scanning electron microscopy using backscattered electron images, secondary electron images and X-ray mapping. Osmium tetroxide was used to tag the oil, while silicon was the elemental tag for clay in the microscopic analysis. Results of the four factors studied can be summarized as follows. (i) In agreement with observations by previous researchers, a mixture of clay and oil is more difficult to remove than either the oil or the clay applied singly. It appears that oil acts as a matrix to bind clay, forming a composite soil. (ii) The specimens that were soiled first with oil and then clay had more soil removed by laundering than the specimens soiled with clay and then oil. Detergency was limited by the encapsulation of clay by the oil and adsorbtion of oil by the clay. (iii) The built powdered detergents were temperature sensitive, while the unbuilt liquid detergent was not. (iv) The built powdered detergents removed more soil (oily and clay) than the unbuilt liquid detergent.
The role of vision in the sea-finding orientation of the green turtle (Chelonia mydas). 2. Orientation mechanism and range of spectral sensitivity

Abstract The mechanism of the sea-finding orientation of green turtles was studied on their Costa Rican nesting beach. Unilateral blindfolding of mature turtles caused continuous turning towards the side of the uncovered eye. Turtles with one eye covered by a neutral density filter of 1 per cent transmittance were able to find the sea, but their paths deviated away from a direct seaward course and towards the side of the uncovered eye. It was concluded that the green turtle, extremely myopic when on land, relies on a method of sea-finding that resembles the tropotactic orientation of some invertebrate animals with simple light receptors. Experiments in which spectacles holding a variety of colour filters were placed over the eyes of orienting sea turtles confirmed that sea-finding is based on light intensity discrimination rather than on colour discrimination. Sea-finding is possible with filters that transmit light anywhere between 350 nm and 650 nm. The decrease in orientation scores with the red filters during the day and at night is most likely a function of the turtle's low sensitivity to red light. Red sensitivity is considerably less than that of freshwater turtles, while near-ultraviolet perception is good; this may be evolutionarily related to the short-wavelength transmittance of seawater.
Three-dimensional monolayers: Nanometer-sized electrodes of alkanethiolate-stabilized gold cluster molecules

Rotated disk electrode voltammetry is described for CH2Cl2 solutions of cluster molecules with nanometer-sized gold cores and stabilizing ligand shells consisting of mixed monolayers of octanethiolate and ω-ferrocenyloctanethiolate ligands in molar ratios ranging from 2:1 to 24:1. Voltammograms for the cluster molecules exhibit a ferrocene oxidation wave with a limiting current that is under hydrodynamic mass transport control. The current−potential curves preceding (“prewave”) and following (“postwave”) the ferrocene wave, which are ideally flat, are decidedly sloped. The Δi/ΔE slopes are proportional to the square root of electrode rotation rate, i.e., are also under hydrodynamic control. The Δi/ΔE slopes are due to the charging of the electrical double layers of the cluster molecules, showing them to act as diffusing, molecule-sized “nanoelectrodes”. A theoretical analysis is presented of the transport control of the double layer charging. Possible reasons that the values of the cluster molecule capaci...
Validation of a lameness model in sows using physiological and mechanical measurements

The objective of this study was to develop a validated, transient, chemically induced lameness model in sows using subjective and objective lameness detection tools. Experiment 1 determined an effective joint injection technique based on volume and placement of dye using feet collected from 9 finisher pigs and 10 multiparity cull sow carcasses. Experiment 2 confirmed the injection technique in live animals and produced a transient clinical lameness in 4 anesthetized sows injected with amphotericin B (15 mg/mL) in the distal interphalangeal joints of the claw. Clinical lameness was assessed by a categorical lameness scoring system, and a postmortem visual confirmation of joint injection technique was obtained. In Exp. 3, 6 sows were injected with 0, 10, or 15 mg/mL amphotericin B in either the left or right hind foot and were monitored until clinical resolution. Treated sows demonstrated elevated clinical lameness scores. These changes resolved by 7 d after lameness induction. Control sows injected with sterile saline developed a clinical lameness score of 0.5, which resolved 72 h post injection. In Exp. 4, 36 sows were injected with 10 mg/mL amphotericin B in 1 of 4 injection sites (left front claws, right front claws, left rear claws, and right rear claws). All injected sows exhibited a decrease in maximum pressure, stance time, and number of sensors activated on the GaitFour (P < 0.05) sensor system. A static force plate also demonstrated a decrease in weight (kg) being placed on the injected foot when all feet were injected (P ≤ 0.05). Injection of amphotericin B induced a predictable acute lameness that resolved spontaneously and is an effective method to model lameness in sows.
Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy: analysis of the first 100 cases from a single institution

Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) is an alternative to open and laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for small renal tumors. Our objectives were to report our experience and short-term outcomes from the first 100 cases of robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) performed at a single institution, as well as to evaluate the effect of the learning curve and identify any factors associated with adverse perioperative outcomes. Patient records of the first 100 RAPN cases performed by three surgeons between October 2007 and March 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. The cases were divided into two groups to analyze a possible learning curve effect. Group 1 consisted of the first half (chronologically) of the cases performed by each surgeon, and Group 2 consisted of the second half. For the entire series, the median warm ischemia time was 24 min (range 11–49), mean length of follow-up was 13.4 months, and the median postoperative change in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was −6.6 mL/min/1.73 m2. Three patients had microscopically positive margins on final pathology, three intraoperative complications occurred, and 13 postoperative complications were recorded (10 Clavien grade IIIa or less). Median operative time was significantly longer in Group 1 (193 min) than in Group 2 (165 min, P = 0.003). Multivariate analysis identified male gender and cases done in Group 1 to be associated with increased operative time, while male gender and higher nephrometry scores were associated with increased blood loss. Tumor characteristics associated with greater reductions in GFR included higher nephrometry scores, endophytic tumors, and hilar tumors. In conclusion, RAPN appears to be safe and the major effect of the learning curve appears to be on operative time. Warm ischemia times are sufficiently low to prevent significant renal impairment, while male gender and higher nephrometry scores may be predictors of longer operative times and more intraoperative blood loss. Overall operative time decreased with increasing case volume, although this was not uniform among the three surgeons in the study. Further longitudinal study is necessary to establish oncologic outcomes.
Receivers respond differently to chick-a-dee calls varying in note composition in Carolina chickadees, Poecile carolinensis

The chick-a-dee call of the avian genus Poecile is a structurally complex vocal system because it possesses a set of simple rules that governs how the notes of the call are ordered, and variable numbers of each of the note types strung together can generate an extraordinary number of unique calls. Whereas it has been hypothesized that chick-a-dee calls with different notes may convey different information, no experimental evidence has been offered in support of the hypothesis. Previously published studies suggested that flock members use chick-a-dee calls in the context of moving to or from a feeding site. Here, we tested Carolina chickadees’ responses to playbacks of chick-a-dee calls that differed in note composition. Playbacks were conducted in the field in the context of a novel food source. Our pilot data had indicated that chick-a-dee calls with relatively large numbers of ‘C’ notes were given by birds on their first contact with a novel seed stand. In the present study, we found that chickadees flew in close to the playback speaker and subsequently took seed from a seed stand more often during playbacks of chick-a-dee calls containing C notes than chick-a-dee calls not containing C notes or than control playbacks. Vocal responses of chickadees to the playbacks also differed in relation to the particular vocal signal being played back. These results indicate that receivers respond differently to chick-a-dee calls containing different compositions of note types and represent a first step to link variation in note composition and ordering in these calls to possible meanings.
On the solution of multiattribute problems involving counting in intersecting sets

A method is presented for computing the number of elements in any collection of sets derived from other sets by statements that are reducible to conjunctions, disjunctions, and complementations. The technique also detects certain inconsistencies that may be present in the given data. The method is applicable to a wide range of problems in computer science, actuarial studies, survey statistics, and the social and systems sciences.
Human γ‐aminobutyric acid A receptor α2 gene moderates the acute effects of alcohol and brain mRNA expression

Gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABA(A)) receptors moderate several of the behavioral effects of alcohol. In fact, recent studies have shown an association between the gene for the alpha2-subunit of the GABA(A) receptor (GABRA2) and alcoholism. In the present study, we examined the functional relevance of the GABRA2 gene in alcohol dependence by assessing brain GABRA2 mRNA and GABA(A)alpha2-subunit protein levels in post-mortem prefrontal cortical tissue collected from control and alcohol-dependent individuals. In addition, using an endophenotype approach, we tested whether the GABRA2 gene moderates sensitivity to the acute effects of alcohol in two independent samples from distinct human alcohol challenge studies. Results indicated that GABRA2 mRNA levels significantly differed by GABRA2 genotype. GABRA2 single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs573400, rs279871 and rs279858) were significantly associated with sensitivity to the acute effects of alcohol. Specifically, there was a significant main effect of GABRA2 x breath alcohol concentration on several measures of subjective responses to alcohol, including the hedonic value of alcohol. Importantly, reanalysis of a previous intravenous alcohol administration study confirmed the results of the oral alcohol challenge study. In summary, these results extend previous findings and provide new insights into the putative biobehavioral mechanisms that may moderate the association between the GABRA2 gene, sensitivity to the acute effects of alcohol and ultimately alcohol dependence.
LEARN: SOFTWARE FOR FOREIGN LANGUAGE VOCABULARY ACQUISITION FROM ENGLISH UNRESTRICTED TEXT

Abstract This paper describes LEARN, a software system for computer assisted foreign language vocabulary acquisition. LEARN uses unrestricted text to assist in learning because its potential value is clear: unrestricted text can be chosen by the learner to suit the learner's own interests. LEARN processes English unrestricted text by translating selected English words in it into foreign words before presenting the text to the learner. Learners can then practice their foreign language vocabulary in the course of reading the text of their choice. Currently LEARN can translate a significant number of words into Chinese and Bengali. Ambiguity in translation is addressed by ‘word experts’, miniature expert systems, each of which translates some word from English into a particular language by examining its context. The natural path for the future of LEARN is to extend it by adding more languages, having it take input in languages other than English, adding more word experts, adding more extensive interactive hi...
Characterizing response of total suspended solids and total phosphorus loading to weather and watershed characteristics for rainfall and snowmelt events in agricultural watersheds

Summary Understanding the response of total suspended solids (TSS) and total phosphorus (TP) to influential weather and watershed variables is critical in the development of sediment and nutrient reduction plans. In this study, rainfall and snowmelt event loadings of TSS and TP were analyzed for eight agricultural watersheds in Wisconsin, with areas ranging from 14 to 110 km2 and having four to twelve years of data available. The data showed that a small number of rainfall and snowmelt runoff events accounted for the majority of total event loading. The largest 10% of the loading events for each watershed accounted for 73–97% of the total TSS load and 64–88% of the total TP load. More than half of the total annual TSS load was transported during a single event for each watershed at least one of the monitored years. Rainfall and snowmelt events were both influential contributors of TSS and TP loading. TSS loading contributions were greater from rainfall events at five watersheds, from snowmelt events at two watersheds, and nearly equal at one watershed. The TP loading contributions were greater from rainfall events at three watersheds, from snowmelt events at two watersheds and nearly equal at three watersheds. Stepwise multivariate regression models for TSS and TP event loadings were developed separately for rainfall and snowmelt runoff events for each individual watershed and for all watersheds combined by using a suite of precipitation, melt, temperature, seasonality, and watershed characteristics as predictors. All individual models and the combined model for rainfall events resulted in two common predictors as most influential for TSS and TP. These included rainfall depth and the antecedent baseflow. Using these two predictors alone resulted in an R2 greater than 0.7 in all but three individual models and 0.61 or greater for all individual models. The combined model yielded an R2 of 0.66 for TSS and 0.59 for TP. Neither the individual nor the combined models were substantially improved by using additional predictors. Snowmelt event models were statistically significant for individual and combined watershed models, but the model fits were not all as good as those for rainfall events (R2 between 0.19 and 0.87). Predictor selection varied from watershed to watershed, and the common variables that were selected were not always selected in the same order. Influential variables were commonly direct measures of moisture in the watershed such as snowmelt, rainfall + snowmelt, and antecedent baseflow, or measures of potential snowmelt volume in the watershed such as air temperature.
Screening for hyperglycemia: the gateway to diabetes prevention and management for all Americans.

In this issue, Selph and colleagues review evidence for screening for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. The editorialists discuss the review and its implications for clinical practice.