cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increased proliferation of oligodendrocytes in the hypomyelinated mouse mutant-jimpy

Abstract Previous studies of the hypomyelinated mouse mutant jimpy have shown that the number of oligodendrocytes are reduced about 50%. To determine the cause of the cellular reduction, light and electron microscopy were combined with thymidine autoradiographic techniques. The number of neuroglial cells which incorporate radioactive thymidine in the mutants is increased severalfold over control values. Electron microscopic autoradiograms indicate the majority of the labeled cells are oligodendroblasts. However, the total number of glia in the white matter of jimpy and control animals is the same during development and even up to the time of the animal's death. The presence of mitotic cells suggests that the oligodendrocytes undergo division but the abundance of dying cells suggests that they die sometime afterwards. The results of the quantitative autoradiographic studies in combination with our other data strongly suggest that the immediate failure of these cells to form myelin shealths is due to a shortened life span and/or continued cell proliferation.
Stable Filtering Schemes with Rational Dilations

The relationship between multiresolution analysis and filtering schemes is a well known facet of wavelet theory. However, in the case of rational dilation factors, the wavelet literature is somewhat lacking in its treatment of this relationship. This work seeks to establish a means for the construction of stable filtering schemes with rational dilations through the theory of shift-invariant spaces. In particular, principal shift-invariant spaces will be shown to offer frame wavelet decompositions for rational dilations even when the associated scaling function is not refinable. Moreover, it will be shown that such decompositions give rise to stable filtering schemes with finitely supported filters, reminiscent of those studied by Kovacevic and Vetterli.
Dissociation and the Adult Attachment Interview in artists and performing artists

Attachment patterns were investigated in a group of professional and pre-professional artists (n = 51). Given the high level of absorption/imagination required of artists, this study examined normative and pathological dissociation (PD) and considered links with Adult Attachment Interview responses, with particular attention to the AAI classification Unresolved (U) for past loss or trauma. Results indicated: (1) artists had elevated mean scores for absorption/imagination, (2) all but one artist had adverse trauma or loss experiences, (3) 17 (36%) met criteria for PD and 9 (53%) of those in the PD range had a classification of Unresolved (U) on the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI), (4) U was associated with PD, but not normative dissociation (absorption/imagination), (5) even with a primary U classification many individuals had an alternate secure/autonomous classification, and (6) 88% of the artists were classified as secure/autonomous in a three-way analysis on the AAI, but in a four-way analysis 27.5% w...
Io: Heat flow from dark paterae

Abstract Dark paterae on the jovian satellite Io are evidence of recent volcanic activity. Some paterae appear to be entirely filled with dark volcanic material, while others have only partially darkened floors. Dark paterae have area and heat flow longitudinal distributions that are bimodal as well as anti-correlated with the longitudinal distribution of mountains on Io at a global scale. As part of our study of Io’s total heat flow, we have examined the darkest paterae and quantified their thermal emission in order to assess their contribution. This is the first time that the areas of the dark material in these paterae have been measured with such precision and correlated with their thermal emission. Dark paterae yield a significantly larger contribution to Io’s heat flow than dark volcanic fields. Dark paterae (including Loki Patera) yield at least ∼4 × 10 13 W or ∼40% of Io’s total heat flow. In comparison, dark flow fields yield ∼10 13 W or ∼10% of Io’s total heat flow. Of the total heat loss from dark paterae, Loki Patera alone yields ∼10 13 W or ∼10% of Io’s total thermal emission.
Training and Contextual Interference Effects on Memory and Transfer

Abstract An experimental intervention program to train subjects on coincidence anticipation and prediction skills was administered to novice females. An attempt was undertaken to study the effects of this sports training and training on laboratory tasks. According to Battig' s predictions on the structure of practice sessions, both random and blocked contexts were presented. These acquisition contexts were viewed as orienting tasks that preceded sports training. The effects of high-contextual interference and sports training on acquisition, retention, and transfer were investigated. Practice conditions in the intervention were selected because of processing demands similar to random acquisition. Other research has shown that acquisition in random is influenced by sport-skill expertise and further indicates that processing of events occurring outside the laboratory influences performance of laboratory tasks. Observed results supported prior theoretical predictions and empirical findings on contextual inter...
Bioavailability of Zinc and Iron from Mature Winged Bean Seed Flour

The relative bioavailability of zinc and iron from mature winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) flour was determined utilizing standard rat bioassay procedures. Weight gain of rats after 21 days and total bone (tibia) zinc resulting from zinc addition to the standard diet as zinc carbonate or from zinc endogenous to winged bean flour were compared. The relative bioavailability of winged bean zinc was calculated to be 85% (P < 0.05) and 93% (N.S.) when weight gain and log tibia zinc were the criteria of evaluation. The results of the hemoglobin repletion assay indicated that iron from winged bean was 89% (N.S.) as bioavailable iron from ferrous sulfate.
Keeping taxonomy based in morphology

financial rather than technological. In most countries, the scientific community simply is not prepared to allocate significant resources to taxonomic research of poorly known organism groups, not even from funds dedicated to biodiversity research [Statistics on Swedish biodiversity funding (http://www.artdata.slu.se/ Svenska_artprojektet_Eng.htm)]. A glowing exception is the USA, where new generations of taxonomists have been trained in the PEET program since 1995 [5] and where the recent US$14 million Planetary Biodiversity Inventories programme (http://www.nsf.gov/pubs/2002/ nsf02186/nsf02186.htm) aims to complete the world species inventory for some selected taxa. In countries with less supportive scientific communities, separately funded national inventories could be the key to significant acceleration of the biodiversity census. The so-called Swedish Taxonomy Initiative (STI) provides a nice example (http://www.artdata.slu.se/ Svenska_artprojektet_Eng.htm). It was launched in January 2002 and aims to complete an inventory of Sweden’s fauna and flora of multicellular organisms within 20 years. STI is likely to expand the current list of 50 000 Swedish species considerably, both with named and previously unnamedtaxa.Theprojectwill requiresomeEuro65 million in direct funds to taxonomic research, inventory work and outreach focused on the Swedish flora and fauna, and another Euro 65 million to support incorporation of the resulting material into existing natural-history collections, making it one of the largest biodiversity initiatives yet. The geographical constraint is not ideal from a scientific perspective but the forte of national inventories is that they can provide society with the necessary deliverables. In addition to taxonomic research, STI will produce illustrated identification keys and basic facts concerning the distribution and biology of all species in Swedish. This will broaden the knowledge base for the identification and monitoring of biodiversity, provide a rich information source for schools, and significantly boost public awareness of local biodiversity and its conservation. National inventories also have the potential of spreading to neighbouring countries. Indeed, other Nordic countries are now considering taxonomy initiatives of their own. The completion of the first national biodiversity map will undoubtedly be a significant event. Will the Swedes, inspired by their Linnaean tradition, be first?
Near-edge and photoemission studies of condensed diborane. Evidence for intermolecular interactions in the solid phase

Abstract Boron K near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) and photoemission spectra for condensed diborane and argon containing five percent B2H6 (matrix isolated case) were obtained. The near-edge spectrum obtained for the condensed diborane differs from that obtained for the matrix isolated case which resembles that reported for the gas phase. The valence band photoemission from condensed B2H6 appears more similar to that published for B4H10 than that for gaseous diborane. From the spectroscopic data, it is concluded that diborane molecules are affected by intermolecular interactions and undergo a change in electronic structure.
The impact of VLBI and GPS on geodesy

Two new technologies, Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) and the Global Positioning System (GPS), will provide the means for achieving the perennial goal of geodesists—a unified, worldwide geodetic control point network tied to an inertial reference system. VLBI will replace optical methods for determining both polar motion and rotation rate, with accuracies an order of magnitude better and with results available a week or less after observations. GPS will permit rapid, economical point positioning with accuracies of a few centimeters over distances of 100 km or more. The potential of these new systems will generate new applications for geodesy and require a reevaluation of the role of geodesists
Pressure relief splinting for an infant: A systemic approach

This case report describes a unique splinting design used on a 6 month-old infant with a grade II heel pressure sore. Traditional methods of attaining pressure relief such as gel pads and repositioning may benefit an inactive, relatively healthy child. However, a 6 month-old infant who is actively at the developmental age of reciprocal kicking is less likely to respond to these interventions. Furthermore, children with multiple systemic diagnosis may demonstrate a rapid deterioration of their pressure sore when the most effective intervention is not initially chosen. Method. This paper reviews the multiple systems which impact wound healing to assist the occupational therapist in choosing efficient methods of pressure relief. The splint design described was chosen due to the age and the complex medical history of the infant. Practice Implications. The effectiveness of total pressure relief initiated early in the infant?s treatment resulted in complete visual healing within one month. It was worn for six weeks to avoid recurrence on an already susceptible area of skin
Theory of nonlocal thermoelasticity

Abstract By means of the nonlocal thermodynamics and the axiom of objectivity a set of constitutive equations is developed for the nonlocal thermoelastic solids. Constitutive functionals are linearized, and, together with the balance laws of nonlocal continuum mechanics, the field equations are obtained for the displacement and the temperature fields of the linear theory. The surface physics relevant to thermoelasticity is shown to be included in the theory.
The 6-minute walk test: how important is the learning effect?

Abstract Background The 6-minute walk test is a submaximal exercise test that is widely used as an outcomes measure in clinical trials and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. An initial learning effect with repeated administration is well documented, but it is unknown whether this learning effect persists with time. Methods This study was designed to determine whether the learning effect persists after 2 months. Fifty healthy adults (mean age, 30.6 years; 48% men, 82% white) unfamiliar with the 6-minute walk test completed 3 walks at baseline (walks 1–3) and 3 walks at follow-up (walks 4–6). Height, weight, and self-reported physical activity were assessed at both points. Distances walked during the 6 walks were compared with a general linear model for repeated measures with post-hoc pairwise comparisons corrected by the Bonferroni method. A P value Results The distance walked increased significantly between walks 1 and 3 (2046 ± 228 ft to 2194 ± 266 ft, P P Conclusion The initial learning effect is maintained during a 2-month period. A more modest additional learning effect occurs during the follow-up walks. Both learning effects should be taken into account when using the 6-minute walk test as an outcomes measure.
Nautilus: fast automated IP design space search using guided genetic algorithms

Today's offerings of parameterized hardware IP generators permit very high degrees of performance and implementation customization. Nevertheless, it is ultimately still left to the IP users to set IP parameters to achieve the desired tuning effects. For the average IP user, the knowledge and effort required to navigate a complex IP's design space can significantly offset the productivity gain from using the IP. This paper presents an approach that builds into an IP generator an extended genetic algorithm (GA) to perform automatic IP parameter tuning. In particular, we propose extensions that allow IP authors to embed pertinent designer knowledge to improve GA performance. In the context of several IP generators, our evaluations show that (1) GA is an effective solution to this problem and (2) our modified IP author guided GA can reach the same quality of results up to an order of magnitude faster compared to the basic GA.
A method for extracting sulfate from sphagnum peat

Abstract The efficacy of five solutions for extracting sulfate from a peat‐based medium was investigated. Extracting solutions used were 10 mM LiCl, 10 mM KC1, 100 mg/L P, 500 mg/L P, 0.15% CaCl2, or distilled water. Equilibration time affected the amount of sulfate extracted with the use of 100 mg/L P or distilled water extractants. Differences in the amount of sulfate extracted were observed at 0.5‐, 4‐, and 12‐hour equilibration times. Extraction effectiveness increased with the increase of equilibration time, up to a maximum of 4 hours. The concentration of sulfate extracted with all extractants levelled off at the 2‐hour equilibration time. CaCl2 was the most effective solution for the extraction of water‐soluble sulfate. Water‐soluble sulfate plus absorbed sulfate was most efficiently extracted with 500 mg/L P. No relationship was observed between measured sulfate and the pH levels of the extracted solutions.
Hypothesis: Terminal transverse limb defects with “nubbins” represent a regenerative process during limb development in human fetuses

BACKGROUND Terminal transverse limb defects with nubbins occur in one arm at one of several levels (distal humerus, proximal forearm, wrist, and at the metacarpal-phalangeal joint in the hand). The associated nubbins contain osteocartilaginous tissue and small nails and are not associated with evidence of amnion disruption. METHODS We present affected newborn infants whose terminal transverse limb defects are at one of these three levels: proximal forearm, elbow, or metacarpal-phalangeal joint. RESULTS We hypothesize that the presence of residual digit-like structures reflects a regenerative process that has occurred during limb development in these infants. DISCUSSION Only limited regeneration of digit-like structures can occur in the human fetus. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photosystem I charge separation in the absence of centers A and B. I. Optical characterization of center ‘A2’ and evidence for its association with a 64-kDa peptide

Abstract The flash-induced absorption transient at 698 nm in a Photosystem I subchloroplast particle showed the following characteristics after addition of 0.25–2.0% lithium dodecyl sulfate (LDS). (i) The 30-ms transient corresponding to the P-700 + P-430 − backreaction was replaced by a 1.2-ms transient. (ii) The amplitude of the transient did not change immediately after LDS addition, but decayed with a half-life of 10 min at pH 8.5. (iii) Methyl viologen had no effect on the magnitude or kinetics of the transient, indicating that it cannot accept an electron from this component. (iv) The difference spectrum of the transient from 400 nm to 500 nm was characteristic of an iron-sulfur protein. (v) The transient followed first-order Arrhenius behavior between 298 K and 225 K with an activation energy of 13.3 kJ/mol; between 225 K and 77 K, the 85-ms half-time remained temperature-invariant. These properties suggest that the LDS-induced absorption transient corresponds to the P-700 + A − 2 change recombination seen in the absence of a reduced electron-acceptor system. In the presence of LDS, the reaction-center complex was dissociated, allowing removal of the smaller peptides from the 64-kDa P-700-containing protein. With prolonged incubation, the iron-sulfur clusters were destroyed through conversion of the labile sulfide to zero-valence sulfur. About 35% of the zero-valence sulfur was found associated with the 64-kDa protein under conditions that allowed separation of the small peptides. We interpret the long lifetime of the P-700 + A − 2 transient after LDS addition and the association of zero-valence sulfur with a 64-kDa protein to indicate that A 2 is closely associated with, and perhaps integral with, the P-700-containing protein.
The Substrate Vibration Generating Behavior of Aphaenogaster carolinensis (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Aphaenogaster carolinensis Wheeler produces substrate vibrations by striking a substrate with its mandible and dragging its mandible across the surface. We have described this behavior and conducted laboratory trials to isolate some of the conditions under which it may occur. Individual strikes were consistent in pattern and duration, but there was great variation in the duration of, and the number of strikes associated with, a single substrate vibration generating event. In laboratory trials, this behavior occurred most frequently in response to confrontation with non-nest mate con-specifics and did not require the presence of a food source or colony territory to be initiated.
Postoperative atrial fibrillation in noncardiothoracic surgical patients

Abstract Background: Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia whose prevalence increases with age. It is a well-known complication of cardiothoracic surgery, but the incidence and contributing factors to the development of atrial fibrillation in noncardiothoracic surgical patients are less well known. This study was undertaken to investigate the incidence, association with known risk factors, treatment, and outcome of atrial fibrillation in postoperative noncardiac, nonthoracic surgical patients. Methods: A 2-year retrospective review was performed of all noncardiac, nonthoracic surgical patients that developed atrial fibrillation within 30 days of operation. Incidence, risk factors, treatment and outcome related to the development of this arrhythmia were analyzed. Results: Fifty-one patients developed atrial fibrillation during this study period for an incidence of 0.37%. Most had preexisting cardiac risk factors, a positive fluid balance, or had electrolyte or arterial oxygen saturation abnormalities. Two thirds were discharged home on new cardiac medications, 16% remained in atrial fibrillation, and 12% died. Conclusions: New onset atrial fibrillation in this group of noncardiothoracic surgical patients is an uncommon problem that is a morbid event associated with significant mortality.
Dexamethasone Inhibits Respiratory Glycoconjugate Secretion from Feline Airways In Vitro by the Induction of Lipocortin (Lipomodulin) Synthesis

The effect of glucocorticoids on respiratory glycoconjugate (RGC) secretion was studied in a cat tracheal organ culture system. Dexamethasone (10−5 to 10−9 M) added to culture medium for 24 h caused a dose-related reversible inhibition of RCG of as much as 40% with a peak effect at 24 to 60 h after initiation of dexamethasone treatment. A monoclonal antilipocortin antibody added to the cultures blocked the inhibitory effect of dexamethasone on RGC secretion and accelerated the reversal of the dexamethasone effect after discontinuation of dexamethasone treatment. A control antibody without antilipocortin activity had no effect on RGC secretion or dexamethasone-induced inhibition of RGC secretion. Measurement of the concentration of lipocortin in airways revealed a 220% increase after treatment with dexamethasone for 24 h. We conclude that dexamethasone inhibits RGC secretion through the induction of lipocortin synthesis.
Cyanobacterial Phycobilisomes: Selective Dissociation Monitored by Fluorescence and Circular Dichroism

Abstract Phycobilisomes are supramolecular assemblies of phycobiliproteins responsible for photosynthetic light collection in red algae and cyanobacteria. They can be selectively dissociated by reduction of temperature and buffer concentration. Phycobilisomes isolated from Fremyella diplosiphon transfer energy collected by C-phycoerythrin and C-phycocyanin to allophycocyanin. The energy transfer to allophycocyanin is nearly abolished at 2°C, as indicated by a blue shift in fluorescence emission, and is accompanied by a decrease in the circular dichroism in the region of allophycocyanin absorbance. Further dissociation of the phycobilisomes can be attained by reduction of buffer concentration and holding at 2°C. Energy transfer to C-phycocyanin is nearly abolished, and decreases occur in the circular dichroism in the region of C-phycocyanin and C-phycoerythrin absorbance. Complete dissociation of the phycobilisomes at low buffer concentration and 2°C requires extended time. Energy transfer to C-phycocyanin is further reduced and the circular dichroism maximum of C-phycoerythrin at 575 nm is lost. Circular dichroism provides information on the hexamer-monomer transitions of the phycobiliproteins, whereas fluorescence is indicative of hexamer-hexamer interactions. We consider that hydrophobic interactions are fundamental to the maintenance of the structure and function of phycobilisomes.
Antimicrobial resistance among clinical isolates of haemophilus influenzae in the United States

Study objectives: Increasing rates of β-lactamase production and antimicrobial resistance by respiratory tract pathogens continue to be a concern in the treatment of a variety of infections commonly cared for in the emergency department setting. We determine the current antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and β-lactamase production rates of Haemophilus influenzae and compare them with our results from the previous 6 years. Methods: A total of 5,445 isolates were collected from patients with H influenzae respiratory tract infections between 1994 and 2002. The most recent study was completed using specimens collected during the winter of 2001 to 2002 and included 1,025 strains. β-Lactamase production was assessed with the nitrocefin disc assay; broth microdilution antimicrobial susceptibility testing with 16 antimicrobial agents was performed according to National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards guidelines. Results: The rate of β-lactamase production was 36.4% in 1994 and decreased in each of the subsequent study periods (1997, 31%; 1999, 30.8%; and 28.9% in 2001 to 2002). Susceptibility rates of greater than 96% were found with amoxicillin/clavularic acid, cefuroxime, cefpodoxime, cefixime, ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, chloramphenicol, tetracycline, and telithromycin. Susceptibility rates to ampicillin (67.5%), cefprozil (88.1%), and cefaclor (87.3%) were unchanged during the study period. Only trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (74.5% versus 100% in 1994) and clarithromycin (60.5% versus 71.2 in 1994) revealed a decreasing rate of susceptibility between 1994 and 2002. Conclusion: Since 1994 to 1995, β-lactamase production has decreased and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and clarithromycin resistance has increased in clinical isolates of H influenzae. The reasons for these trends were not determined but may be a result of a change in clinician prescribing practices away from β-lactam drugs.
Human–robot interaction via voice-controllable intelligent user interface

An understanding of how humans and robots can successfully interact to accomplish specific tasks is crucial in creating more sophisticated robots that may eventually become an integral part of human societies. A social robot needs to be able to learn the preferences and capabilities of the people with whom it interacts so that it can adapt its behaviors for more efficient and friendly interaction. Advances in human– computer interaction technologies have been widely used in improving human–robot interaction (HRI). It is now possible to interact with robots via natural communication means such as speech. In this paper, an innovative approach for HRI via voice-controllable intelligent user interfaces is described. The design and implementation of such interfaces are described. The traditional approaches for human–robot user interface design are explained and the advantages of the proposed approach are presented. The designed intelligent user interface, which learns user preferences and capabilities in time, can be controlled with voice. The system was successfully implemented and tested on a Pioneer 3-AT mobile robot. 20 participants, who were assessed on spatial reasoning ability, directed the robot in spatial navigation tasks to evaluate the effectiveness of the voice control in HRI. Time to complete the task, number of steps, and errors were collected. Results indicated that spatial reasoning ability and voice-control were reliable predictors of efficiency of robot teleoperation. 75% of the subjects with high spatial reasoning ability preferred using voice-control over manual control. The effect of spatial reasoning ability in teleoperation with voice-control was lower compared to that of manual control.
The effect of graded aversive stimuli on limbic and visual activation.

Activation studies have shown that in response to evocative visual stimuli, brain activity increases in the visual cortex and limbic areas. However, non-affective characteristics of these images, such as color composition and visual complexity, confound the interpretation of these results. To address this issue, we had subjects rate over 100 images on aversive intensity (facial mutilation, dead bodies) and semantic complexity (number of objects subjects could name). From these images, we assembled digitized image sets of non-aversive, mild and strong intensity, balanced on semantic complexity and content (human faces and figures), and adjusted for color composition. A fourth condition consisted of a fixation cross on a blank screen. Thirteen subjects underwent eight positron emission tomography scans using the [15O] water methodology. Measurement of skin conductance was recorded simultaneously. All picture conditions, relative to the blank screen, activated the amygdalae and bilateral orbitofrontal cortex, while we found activation trends associated with increasing aversive content in the sub-lenticular region. Skin conductance increased during all picture conditions. Relative to the non-aversive pictures, aversive image content caused modulation of occipital and occipital-temporal cortex. These results demonstrated activation of the amygdala to salient, arousing stimuli, and not just aversive stimuli. In addition, they suggest that pictorial complexity, as indexed by our semantic measure, does not account for the modulation of visual cortex by aversive, emotional stimuli.
Automated Solid-Phase Extraction and Measurement of Perfluorinated Organic Acids and Amides in Human Serum and Milk

Organic fluorochemicals are used in multiple commercial applications including surfactants, lubricants, paints, polishes, food packaging, and fire-retarding foams. Recent scientific findings suggest that several perfluorochemicals (PFCs), a group of organic fluorochemicals, are ubiquitous contaminants in humans and animals worldwide. Furthermore, concern has increased about the toxicity of these compounds. Therefore, monitoring human exposure to PFCs is important.We have developed a high-throughput method for measuring trace levels of 13 PFCs (2 perfluorosulfonates, 8 perfluorocarboxylates, and 3 perfluorosulfonamides) in serum and milk using an automated solid-phase extraction (SPE) cleanup followed by high-performance liquid chromatography−tandem mass spectrometry. The method is sensitive, with limits of detection between 0.1 and 1 ng in 1 mL of serum or milk, is not labor intensive, involves minimal manual sample preparation, and uses a commercially available automated SPE system. Our method is suitabl...
Electronic properties of pseudomorphic {InGaAs}/{AlGaAs} (on GaAs) and {InGaAs}/{InAlAs} (on InP) Modfet structures

Abstract Pseudomorphic (strained channel) modulation doped field effect transistors (MODFETs) have recently received a considerable amount of attention. These devices provide potential for both improved device performance and new physics studies. In this paper we present theoretical studies of n-type and p-type strained channel MODFETs. Information on carrier masses, subband occupation, and the charge control picture as a function of strain in the channel is presented. The n-MODFET studies are based on using the results of tight binding calculations for bandstructure in the strained channel. The p-MODFET problem involves the use of the Kohn Luttinger hamiltonian. Self consistent solution of the Schrodinger equation and the Poisson equation then allows us to study the MODFET properties. In p-type MODFETs, the control of heavy hole-light hole coupling via strain allows the possibility of tailoring hole masses. Comparisons with some of the experimental works previously published are also presented.
Jules Romains and His “Men of Good Will”

T HE publication, in 1946, of the last, the twenty-seventh volume of Jules Romains' Les hommes de bonne volonte has passed by almost unnoticed in France as well as in this country where the work has appeared under the title of Men of Good Will. Even of routine reviews there were relatively few-and they mostly unjust. To be sure, the majority of the reviewers were at one in calling this series the "greatest" modern novel in so far as quantity is concerned, but certainly not in quality. They found fault with the author and with his writing, and it can hardly be said that public opinion, to the extent it is laid down in print, has greeted the achievement of this big enterprise with enthusiastic applause. Various reasons account for this lukewarm, or even unfriendly reception. Since Jules Romains had, in 1932, launched on this awe-inspiring undertaking of writing a present-day "Comedie humaine" the critics' reactions to it have undergone several fluctuations. Hailed in France at first with almost universal appraisal, the annual installment of two volumes, running to more than six hundred pages, soon exasperated the reviewers and as early as 1937 the well-known critic of the Figaro, Andr6 Rousseaux contemptuously scorned the ambition of Jules Romains, ridiculing his diligence as well as his belief in reason and progress. In America, the peak of Jules Romains' fame as the creator of Men of Good Will was only reached in 1940, one year after the translation of volume 16, Verdun, had been published. But then came the French disaster which caused not only all those terrible material destructions of modern warfare, but also threw the majority of Frenchmen into deep conflicts of the soul. Though Jules Romains had escaped to our Hemisphere, his attitude-as it was revealed by a series of articles printed in 1940 and then collected under the title of The Seven Mysteries of Europe-clearly indicated that, up to 1939, he had been in close contact, and sometimes even in conspiracy, with notorious representatives of anti-democratic and anti-Allied tendencies, such as Goebbels, Ribbentrop, Abetz, Laval and Henri de Man. This was sufficient to cast on Romains the shadow of doubt and suspicion, and this book indeed caused him to be ostracized as a public figure, which in turn tarnished his reputation as a writer. The reviewers felt free, and were perhaps sometimes encouraged, to spurn any new book of his, and they did. On the other hand, many magazine and newspaper editors refused any
Extensions of an inequality by Pólya and Schiffer for vibrating membranes

The inequality by Polya and Schiffer considered in this paper is concerned with the sums of the n first reciprocal eigenvalues of the problem Au + Tui = 0 in G, u = 0 on SG. First we extend this inequality to the problem of an inhomogeneous membrane Au + Apu = 0 in G, u = 0 on SG. Then we prove a sharper form of it for a class of homogeneous membranes with partially free boundary. The proofs are based on a variational characterization for the eigenvalues and use conformal mapping and transplantation arguments. 'The work was supported by NSF Grant GU-2056. EXTENSIONS OF AN INEQUALITY BY POLYA AND SCHIFFER FOR VIBRATING MEMBRANES Catherine Bandle INTRODUCTION. The inequality by Polya and Schiffer considered in this paper is concerned with the eigenvalue problem Atp + A . The Gaussian curvature has the form K =(~A In p)/2p r &2 S2 £_ = — 5 — + — 7 . We shall assume that the in equality L Z Bx ay J " K 0. The a a conformal radius of the point a with respect to G is then defined as r (G) = 1/f T (a) [9, p. 16] . We set a a (2) R (G) = < a. (G) if Ko ^ 0 \/p(a) 'ra(G) if K Q = 0 Example; If G is a circle with the radius r 3 the center in the origin and p(z) = g(z), then R (G) = r . w (z) = R (G)f (z) maps G onto the circle {w; Iwl < R (G)}. a a a. a and z (w) denotes its inverse. We shall denote the circle a {w; |wI < e} by C . R a( ) h a s bean chosen in such a way that (3) Jj g(w)dudv = JJ p(z)dxdy -f o(c). c Since JJ g(w)dudv = < ^47rcc + o(€ ) if K Q £ O € W e 2 if
First-Year students' understanding of direct user in open-ended problem solving activities

This paper presents an investigation into First-Year Engineering (FYE) students' ability to identify the direct user in open-ended client-driven problem solving activities. To guide FYE students in formulating an open-ended problem, students are asked a series of questions about the stakeholders, the direct user of the solution, and its needs. The purpose of these questions is to help students think about the problem individually by listing stakeholders including the direct user and the stakeholders' relationships to the problem and its solution prior starting to solve the problem in teams. One hundred (out of ~1600) students' responses to three open-ended problem solving activities during two successive semesters were randomly selected and analyzed. Results showed improvement in students' ability to identify the direct user over time. The majority of students' responses shifted from identifying non-users instead of direct user in the first MEA, to identifying indirect-users in the second MEA, and to identifying direct user correctly in the third MEA. This shows a clear improvement in students' ability to understand these problems over time. However, even for the third MEA, only 60% of students identified the direct user correctly, raising concerns about comprehension of the problem by about 40% of the students.
Dominating Controls for Wetter South Asian Summer Monsoon in the Twenty-First Century

AbstractThis paper analyzes a suite of global climate models from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) archives to understand the mechanisms behind a net increase in the South Asian summer monsoon precipitation in response to enhanced radiative forcing during the twenty-first century. An increase in radiative forcing fuels an increase in the atmospheric moisture content through warmer temperatures, which overwhelms the weakening of monsoon circulation and results in an increase of moisture convergence and therefore summer monsoon precipitation over South Asia. Moisture source analysis suggests that both regional (local recycling, the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal) and remote (including the south Indian Ocean) sources contribute to the moisture supply for precipitation over South Asia during the summer season that is facilitated by the monsoon dynamics. For regional moisture sources, the effect of excessive atmospheric moisture is offset by weaker monsoon circulation and uncertaint...
An analysis of the Wheeler method for measuring the radiating efficiency of antennas

A model problem is formulated to evaluate the limitations imposed by the assumptions in the Wheeler or cap method for measuring the radiating efficiency of antennas. The antenna in the model is a circular loop and the radiation shield is a spherical metal shell. Calculated values of the actual efficiency of the antenna and the efficiency that would be measured using the Wheeler method are compared to determine the accuracy of the method and set guidelines for its application.
Magnetism-induced solid solution softening in NiAl with Co, Fe, Mn, and Cr solute atoms: theory and experiment

Abstract By taking the solid solution effect of Co, Fe, Mn, and Cr solutes in Ni-rich NiAl as an example, we have determined, through a combination of alloying behavior experiments, first-principles calculations, and neutron diffraction measurements, that magnetism has a profound impact on the mechanical properties of intermetallics. Co solutes do not affect the hardening behavior of NiAl alloys. Fe solutes, on the other hand, induce the most substantial and unusual solid solution softening among these solutes. These results can only be explained by the presence of magnetic interactions induced by solutes located on the Al sublattice. The predicted magnetic moment of Fe solutes was verified by neutron diffraction experiment. Our investigation points out the inadequacy of the conventionally used Goldschmidt radii in addressing the atomic size effect in intermetallics.
Tunable, Gap‐State Lasing in Switchable Directions for Opal Photonic Crystals

A photonic crystal laser that is tunable throughout the visible in three-dimensionally switchable directions is demonstrated. This photo-pumped laser utilizes a dye-infiltrated, single-crystal SiO2 opal having incomplete bandgaps. Our results support a gap-state-enhanced distributed feedback mechanism for lasing. Three different types of wavelength tunability are demonstrated, each applicable over a different frequency range and involving either single or multiple bandgaps. The many independent laser cavities that exist in one photonic crystal are demonstrated by simultaneously obtaining lasing in various colors and directions from an opal crystal. The observation of characteristic laser emission lines provides a new spectroscopy for characterizing intra-gap photonic states, which may be useful for developing the photonic crystal analogues of electronic circuitry.
Mutations in the Peptidyl Transferase Center of 23 S rRNA Reveal the Site of Action of Sparsomycin, a Universal Inhibitor of Translation

Sparsomycin is a universal and powerful inhibitor of peptide bond formation which, in contrast to many other ribosome-targeted antibiotics, does not produce footprints on rRNA. A mutant of an archaeon Halobacterium halobium has been isolated that exhibits resistance to sparsomycin. Resistant cells possessed a mutation in the 23 S rRNA, where C2518 (C2499 in Escherichia coli) was substituted by U. Introduction of the C2518U mutation into the chromosomal 23 S rRNA gene of wild-type H. halobium rendered cells resistant to sparsomycin, demonstrating that a single nucleotide alteration in the rRNA is sufficient to confer resistance. Accordingly, ribosomes containing mutant 23 S rRNA exhibited increased tolerance to sparsomycin in vitro. Mutations of two other nucleotide positions in the peptidyl transferase center, C2471 and U2519 (C2452 and U2500 in E. coli), conferred resistance to low concentrations of sparsomycin. The location of the sparsomycin resistance mutations reveals the possible site of drug binding and/or action. Our findings provide further support for the idea that rRNA may be directly involved in interaction with antibiotics and the catalysis of the peptide bond formation.
Kramers' Absorption Law in Physical Problems

IN a recent letter to NATURE1, Dr. T. L. Page reports on an interpretation of the spectrum of hydrogen in the discharge tube and in the planetary nebulae. The observed data consist of measures of the intensities, in emission, of various members of the Balmer series and of the continuum that lies beyond the Balmer limit. Page states: “In the nebulae and in the discharge it can be shown that the recombination of protons and electrons must account for almost the entire emission.” He interprets the data on the basis of this assumption. All the quanta of Balmer α, for example, he regards as being produced by electrons that have arrived in quantum level 3 either by direct capture in that level or by cascade from higher levels after capture. He apparently neglects all other types of excitation, such as reabsorption of the Lyman line radiation or collision. Failing to find agreement between the number of captures calculated theoretically from Kramers' well-known absorption law and the number deduced from the observations, Page concludes that Kramers' law is in error. I should prefer another alternative, namely, that the nebular and discharge spectra are not entirely due to recombination.
Corn yield and nitrogen uptake as influenced by tillage and applied nitrogen

Abstract No‐till management systems have been reported to reduce nonpoint source (NPS) pollution from agricultural fields. However, questions have been raised concerning the fate of nitrogen (N) in these systems. Increased moisture conservation and reduced runoff from no‐till systems have the potential to accelerate leaching of nitrate (NO3 ‐) out of the root zone, thus altering the problem from one of surface water degradation to one of ground water pollution. However, it is also probable that the additional moisture conserved in no‐till systems result in increased crop yield and N uptake. Time of N application and source of N could influence yield and N recovery and thus limit N losses during critical periods. A 3‐year study was conducted to determine if the fate of N applied to nonirrigated corn (Zea mays L.) would be influenced by tillage system, N rate, and time and source of N application. This paper addresses the impact of these practices on yield and N uptake. The experimental site was located on ...
Christ existing as concrete community today

Bonhoeffer’s ecclesiology summed up in his axiom, “Christ existing as community,” establishes the church as a “reality of revelation”—the continued manifestation of Christ in the world. This central notion drives Bonhoeffer’s theological and pragmatic search for new social forms that make the Gospel concrete. Requisite for full appropriation of Bonhoeffer’s legacy is a turn toward contemporary Christian communities trying to follow Jesus’ teachings with similar intentionality and seriousness. To this end, the article places Bonhoeffer’s well-known reflections on discipleship alongside the lived experience of the Open Door, an interracial, residential Christian activist and worshipping community in Atlanta, Georgia, USA that for 30 years has been engaged in works of mercy and justice for homeless and incarcerated persons. When read through the lens of Bonhoeffer’s discipleship theology, the founding and life-work of the Open Door helps readers rethink and re-imagine the kind of ecclesial spaces and structu...
Aspects of Fishery Management, Job Satisfaction, and Well-Being among Commercial Fishermen in the Northeast Region of the United States

The complexity and rapid changes in fishery management approaches have forced fishermen to adopt strategies that may not be congruent with the original appeal of fishing as an occupation. Changes in fish populations and resulting efforts to manage stocks can impact job characteristics that influence job satisfaction (social–psychological needs, basic needs, and self-actualization) and potentially well-being. This hypothesis is addressed through examination of job satisfaction and well-being among 478 fishermen in three subregions of the northeastern United States. The results demonstrate that differences between the mix of regional fisheries and attitudes toward regulations affect two components of job satisfaction and well-being but not self-actualization. Management's attempts to reduce fishing effort therefore need to account for the persistence of self-actualization by either developing appropriate alternative occupations or preparing for the consequences of lower job satisfaction on the well-being of...
Solubilization and resolution of the membrane-bound nitrite reductase from Paracoccus halodenitrificans into nitrite and nitric oxide reductases

Membranes prepared from Paracoccus halodenitrificans reduced nitrite or nitric oxide to nitrous oxide. Extraction of these membranes with the detergent CHAPSO [3-(3-cholamidopropyldimethylammonio)-1-(2-hydroxy-1-propanesulfonate)], followed by ammonium sulfate fractionation of the solubilized proteins, resulted in the separation of nitrite and nitric oxide reductase activities. The fraction containing nitrite reductase activity spectrally resembled a cd-type cytochrome. Several cytochromes were detected in the nitric oxide reductase fraction. Which, if any, of these cytochromes is associated with the reduction of nitric oxide is not clear at this time.
Dichromatism and the mechanisms subserving color vision.

In previous papers the writer has formulated a theory of color vision in which chromaticness is subserved by independent red-green and blue-yellow mechanisms. Each mechanism involves two photosensitive substances. The relative rates of response of these substances for the various wavelengths can be determined from color mixture and adaptation data for normal observers, and this has been done. The present paper makes use of certain assumptions about the color mixture data of the tritanope and the luminosity curve of the normal observer to derive the response curves for the four photosensitive substances subserving color vision.
Serotonergic Stimulation of Prolactin Secretion Is Inhibited by Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Immunoneutralization in the Turkey

Abstract The neuronal mechanisms that govern prolactin (PRL) secretion in the turkey appear to involve monoaminergic systems. Considerable evidence indicates that serotonin (5-HT), acting centrally, is a potent stimulator of PRL secretion. This study, using birds actively immunized against VIP, tests the hypothesis that 5-HT stimulates PRL secretion by releasing vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Nonimmunized turkeys were injected ip with saline, quipazine (5-HT agonist; 5 mg/kg), methysergide (5-HT antagonist; 8 mg/kg), or methysergide plus quipazine, and VIP-immunized birds were injected with saline or quipazine. Quipazine increased plasma PRL levels from 26.8 ± 7.1 ng/ml at Time 0 to a peak value of 148.1 ± 31.4 ng/ml 2 hr after injection. Pretreatment with methysergide or VIP-immunoneutralization abolished the PRL response to quipazine. Intraventricular infusion of 5-HT (1 nmol/min) caused plasma PRL to rise from a baseline of 16.3 ± 2.6 ng/ml to 85.2 ± 14.3 ng/ml after 30 min in nonimmunized control birds. Serotonin infusion did not induce PRL secretion in the VIP immunized birds. These findings suggest that serotonergic stimulation of PRL secretion in the female turkey requires a functional VIPergic system.