cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
“Might as Well Jump!” Template Switching by Retroviral Reverse Transcriptase, Defective Genome Formation, and Recombination☆

Abstract High evolutionary potential and genetic variation in retroviral populations depend upon the mutation and recombination rates per replication cycle, the replication rate (replication cycles per time), and the selective forces that act on the population. The virally encoded reverse transcriptases lack proofreading capability and are evolutionarily selected for jumping (switching templates) during reverse transcription. One consequence of the template switching nature of reverse transcriptases is a high rate of intramolecular template switching, which leads to defective genome formation; another consequence is intermolecular template switching between two copackaged genomic RNAs, which leads to recombination.
Efficient Dealiasing of Doppler Velocities Using Local Environment Constraints

Abstract A Doppler velocity dealiasing algorithm is described that processes one radial at a time by comparing that radial with a previous radial. This technique has worked reliably on numerous Doppler radar datasets for clear air, thunderstorm, and severe thunderstorm situations. It was also tested on four volume mans from severe weather environments with difficult aliasing problems to determine statistically how well the algorithm performs in a worst case environment. Of some 1.2 million velocities in these severe storms, 0.2% were improperly dealiased, and 93% of those were above 13 km height in the storm-top divergent region where shears were extreme. Every tornado, mesocyclone, gust front, microburst, and storm-top divergent signature was preserved, and could be readily discerned by human analyst. No adverse impact was observed on the signature and automated signature detection algorithms would therefore be freed from contamination by velocity aliasing. The velocity dealiasing algorithms described is...
Outcome of Stage T2 or Greater Renal Cell Cancer Treated With Partial Nephrectomy

Purpose: Partial nephrectomy for stage T1 renal cell carcinoma is oncologically efficacious and safe, and may have survival advantages. We describe our experience with partial nephrectomy for T2 or greater renal cell cancer.Materials and Methods: Between 1970 and 2008 approximately 2,300 partial nephrectomies were done at our institution, including 69 for sporadic unilateral advanced stage tumors (pT2 in 32, pT3a in 28 and pT3b in 9). We reviewed outcomes in these patients compared to those in 207 treated with radical nephrectomy matched 3:1 for stage, tumor size, baseline renal function, age and gender.Results: The risk of cancer specific (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.43–1.50, p = 0.489) and overall (HR 1.11, 95% CI 0.72–1.71, p = 0.642) death was similar for partial nephrectomy. At a median of 3.2 years of followup 15 patients (22%) with partial nephrectomy had metastatic disease vs 69 (33%) with radical nephrectomy (HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.42–1.29, p = 0.29). Four patients (6%) with partial nephrectomy had isolated loc...
RF analysis of a 12-pulse HVDC convertor

A computer model, based upon measured equipment impedances, has been formulated for the prediction of the electromagnetic noise generated by valve firings in HVDC convertor stations. Simple lumped circuit concepts are used so that the model can readily be applied to any converter station; it can thus be described as generic. It has been used to predict the noise generated in the frequency interval from 5 to 500 kHz at the Dickinson convertor station and validated by comparing the results with RF spectra measured at the station. A key feature is the use of measured impedances of actual equipment in the model, rather than idealised components.< >
Acousto-optic tunable filter imaging spectrometer for NASA applications: breadboard demonstration

Considerations of performance criteria in image quality, spectral response, programmability, and field-of-view, are presently discussed for a NASA AOTF system. Experimental data obtained with an AOTF imaging spectrometer breadboard are presented. Attention is given to the identification of Nd(3+) contained in bastanite rock by means of this imaging spectrometer.
Empirical analysis of dramatic structure

This study investigated perceptions of dramatic structure. Subjects were randomly assigned to groups in which they only read, only saw, or read and then saw Edward Albee's The Zoo Story. The script was divided into motivational units and the subjects in each group completed a questionnaire ranking and rating the units with respect to dramatic tension. With no a priori definitions of dramatic tension or structure, the subjects responded very similarly when asked to express their analyses of the play they saw and/or read. The audience judgments of The Zoo Story structure as a whole very closely approximated the Matthew's “well‐made modern play” model.
MEMORY SEARCH OF WORDS AND NONWORDS

Summary.-Classification of single-letter probes as members or nonmembers of a list of letters held in memory is faster if the memory list spells a word than if it does not. In terms of Sternberg's theory of memory search, the results seem to show that the speed of the letter-by-letter memory-comparison stage is increased when the letters in the memory set spell a word. In Sternberg's (5) memory-scanning paradigm S first memorizes a short list (termed the memory set) and then is presented probe irems which may or may not be members of the memory set. Ss rask is to classify the probes. Typically, the reaction time (RT) for both yes and no responses increases linearly wirh the size of the memory set. The slope of the function relating RT to set size is consistent with a model whereby Ss compare the probe co each member of the memory set at, in the case of letters or digits, a rate of about 30 msec. per comparison. The present srudy seeks ro determine whether a memory set which forms a well-integrated unit is searched faster than one which does not. The memory sets were either meaningless strings of letters or strings that spelled a familiar word. It has been shown that visual search for a target letter is faster when the letters in the display form words than when they do not (3), and it is of some interest to determine whether the same effect pertains in memory search. In particular, if words do show an advantage over nonwords in memory search, it will be of interest to determine the locus of the effect in terms of an addicive model of RT in the memory-scanning task. In this model the RT is the sum of times consumed in four separate, sequentially dependent stages: (a) encoding of the probe, (b) comparison of the probe with each item in memory, (c) choice of response, and (d) execution of response (4, 5). Factors that affect stage (b), memory comparison, will affect the slope of the RT vs memory load function, and factors that affect the ocher stages should affect only the intercept of the function. Kreuger's (3, Exp. IV) results seem to show that the constant latencies but not the individual memory-comparison times (stage b) would be smaller for words than nonwords. However, Kreuger's results do not bear on the present question. In his Exp. IV the viszral display had eicher words or nonwords in it, and memory-search rates were derived from the effect of memory load on visual-search rate. The letters in the memory load always formed nonwords.
The role of lipid-related genes, aging-related processes, and environment in healthspan.

Summary The inherent complexity of aging-related traits can temper progress in unraveling the genetic origins of healthspan. We focus on two generations in the Framingham Heart Study, the original (FHS) and offspring (FHSO) cohorts, to determine whether aging-related processes in changing environments can substantially impact the role of lipid-related genes discovered in candidate gene (the apolipoprotein E (APOE) e2/3/4 polymorphism) and genome-wide (the APOB rs1042034 (C/T)) studies, in regulation of total cholesterol (TC) and onset of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We demonstrate that the APOE e4 allele and APOB CC genotype can play detrimental, neutral, and protective sex-specific roles in the etiology of CVD at different ages and in different environments. We document antagonistic roles for the e4 allele in the onset of CVD characterized by detrimental effects at younger ages (RR≤ 75 years = 1.49, P = 7.5 × 10−4) and protective effects at older ages (RR76+years = 0.77, P = 0.044) for FHS participants. We found that disregarding the role of aging erroneously nullifies the significant effects of the e4 allele in this sample (RR = 0.92, P = 0.387). The leading biogenetic pathways mediating genetic effects on CVD may be more relevant to lipid metabolism for APOB than APOE. Aging-related processes can modulate the strength of genetic associations with TC in the same individuals at different chronological ages. We found substantial differences in the effects of the same APOE and APOB alleles on CVD and TC across generations. The results suggest that aging-related processes in changing environments may play key roles in the genetics of healthspan. Detailed systemic integrative analyses may substantially advance the progress.
Rationalizing the hydrogen sites in Pd3P1−xHy

Abstract A recently developed geometric model was used to rationalize the observed site occupation by hydrogen atoms in hydrogenated Pd3P1−x. While several types of interstices appear to be large enough to accommodate hydrogen atoms, only one type that is associated with a vacant phosphorus site is actually occupied. A repulsive interaction between hydrogen and phosphorus atoms is invoked to explain this behavior. Consideration of probabilities shows that the applicability of a blocking model without any overlap of H-H interactions should be attributed to the wide separation of P sites that is inherent in the structure of Pd3P.
Occupational and Residential Segregation The Confluence of Two Systems of Inequality

This study considers whether the social organization of the metropolitan area in which black and white men and women prepare for the labor market during youth affects their likelihood to work in occupations overrepresented by blacks or whites as adults. Findings based on the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, census data, and regression analysis suggest that residential segregation affects the likelihood that whites will be segregated from blacks into better-paying occupations that are overrepresented by other whites in the labor market. Furthermore, black women who lived in more segregated cities during their youth are more likely to be concentrated into typically lower-paying occupations overrepresented by other black women and are less likely to work in typically white male occupations that tend to be better remunerated.
Application of photorefractive fiber holograms to interconnections, switchings, and massive memories

We illustrate a technique of constructing a single crystal photorefractive (PR) fiber hologram. Because of its physical length (a few centimeters), high angular and wavelength selectivities can be achieved, in which massive holographic data storage can be performed. Because of high electro-optic constant of the PR fiber, it can be used as optical switches, as well as for optical interconnections. Preliminary experiments are provided in this paper.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Nerve-muscle-endplate band grafting: a new technique for muscle reinnervation..

BACKGROUND Because currently existing reinnervation methods result in poor functional recovery, there is a great need to develop new treatment strategies. OBJECTIVE To investigate the efficacy of our recently developed nerve-muscle-endplate band grafting (NMEG) technique for muscle reinnervation. METHODS Twenty-five adult rats were used. Sternohyoid (SH) and sternomastoid (SM) muscles served as donor and recipient muscle, respectively. Neural organization of the SH and SM muscles and surgical feasibility of the NMEG technique were determined. An NMEG contained a muscle block, a nerve branch with nerve terminals, and a motor endplate band with numerous neuromuscular junctions. After a 3-month recovery period, the degree of functional recovery was evaluated with a maximal tetanic force measurement. Retrograde horseradish peroxidase tracing was used to track the origin of the motor innervation of the reinnervated muscles. The reinnervated muscles were examined morphohistologically and immunohistochemically to assess the extent of axonal regeneration. RESULTS Nerve supply patterns and locations of the motor endplate bands in the SH and SM muscles were documented. The results demonstrated that the reinnervated SM muscles gained motor control from the SH motoneurons. The NMEG technique yielded extensive axonal regeneration and significant recovery of SM muscle force-generating capacity (67% of control). The mean wet weight of the NMEG-reinnervated muscles (87% of control) was greater than that of the denervated SM muscles (36% of control). CONCLUSION The NMEG technique resulted in successful muscle reinnervation and functional recovery. This technique holds promise in the treatment of muscle paralysis.
SIM-Lite: status of the engineering progress toward flight

We present an overview of the ongoing progress towards flight readiness of the SIM project. We summarize the engineering milestones that have been completed in the last two years, namely: the Brass-Board Internal and External Metrology Beam Launchers, the Brass-Board Metrology Source, and the Instrument Communication Hardware/Software Architecture Demonstration. We also show other progress such as: the life test of the bassscrew and PZT actuators, building the Metrology Fiducials and the Single Strut Test Article. We status the ongoing work on the Brass-Board Fast Steering Mirror and the Brass-Board Astrometric Beam Combiner. We end with a proposed path towards finishing the Brass-Board suite.
Nonlinear static analysis of cable-stayed bridge structures

Abstract The nonlinear static analysis of plane cable-stayed bridge structures is discussed. A computer program is presented which will analyze a plane cable-stayed bridge structure considering the effect of initial cable tensions, member dead weights, and distributed and concentrated live loads.
On binary tree encodements

A data encoding scheme involving binary tree encodements is presented and analyzed. A closed-form formula for the number of n-bit legal memory configurations is developed. It is shown that the storage capacity loss due to the use of this scheme is not significant for large n.
CCU&S via Stacked Storage—case Studies from CO2-EOR Basins of the United States☆

Abstract Most compilations of global CO 2 storage capacity separate volumes of storage in oil fields from volumes of storage in nonproductive saline formations. In this study we begin to define accessible volumes by strategically combining CO 2 use for enhanced oil recovery with large-volume storage in associated saline formations. This variant of carbon capture, use, and storage (CCU&S) is known as stacked storage because it uses the three-dimensional properties of the subsurface to achieve multiple complementary objectives. The motivation for combining CO 2 enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and saline-storage types is that where EOR is possible, it provides an attractive market for CO 2 but does not alone achieve emission- reduction targets. By spatially and temporally linking CO 2 EOR with vertically and horizontally adjacent saline storage volumes, the infrastructure, experience, and community acceptance developed for EOR can provide a substantive boost for using the entire subsurface for storage of very large volumes. Representative fields in major areas of current commercial CO 2 EOR served as test cases and were matched with mapped subregional saline-storage potential. Test cases included (1) selected Permian and Pennsylvanian CO 2 EOR fields in the Permian Basin of west Texas and New Mexico that were matched with regional, nonproductive Permian saline formations, (2) Cretaceous-age fields (e.g., the SECARB study area at Cranfield) in the Mississippi salt basin that were matched with regional Cretaceous Tuscaloosa saline formations, and (3) salt-dome marginal and growth-fault rollover fields in the Oligocene Frio Formation of the Texas Gulf Coast that were matched with regional Tertiary-age saline formation. In each case, good matches were obtained between CO 2 EOR markets and adjacent saline formations. Other saline formations underlie and are separated from the productive zone by their own confining systems. Limitations on the application are also considered.
Eavesdropping on visual cues in green swordtail (Xiphophorus helleri) fights: a case for networking

Aggressive contests probably occur in networking environments where information about fighting ability is conveyed both to an opponent and to individuals peripheral to the fight itself, the bystanders. Our primary aim was to investigate the relative influences of eavesdropping and prior social experience on the dynamics of aggressive contests in Xiphophorus helleri . A bystander's ability to witness an encounter was manipulated using clear, one–way mirror, and opaque partitions. After watching (or not watching) the initial contest, the bystander encountered either the winner or loser of the bout. Treatment comparisons of bystander–winner or bystander–loser contest dynamics indicated the presence or absence of winner, loser, or eavesdropping effects. Winner and loser effects had negligible influences on bystander contest dynamics. Eavesdropping significantly reduced the bystander's propensity to initiate aggression, escalate, and win against seen winners regardless of whether the watched bout had escalated or not. Though eavesdropping had relatively little effect on bystander–loser contest dynamics, bystanders were less prone to initiate aggression and win against losers that had escalated in the witnessed bout. Thus, bystanders appear to preferentially retain and utilize information gained about potentially dangerous opponents (winners or persistent losers). Our data lend clear support for the importance of eavesdropping in visually based aggressive signalling systems.
Long-term effects of the water soluble fraction of prudhoe bay crude oil on survival, movement and food search success of the arctic amphipod Boeckosimus (= Onisimus) affinis

Abstract The arctic amphipod Boeckosimus (= Onisimus) affinis was exposed to the water soluble fraction (WSF) of Prudhoe Bay crude oil. Animals were constantly exposed or one-time exposed for 3 or 10 days and then removed to clean water. In constant exposure experiments mortality was correlated to the strength of the solution for 6 weeks; afterwards animals in all solutions experienced similar mortality. Food search success lessened for 2 weeks, then gradually increased. Distance moved and time spent moving decreased as the concentration of the WSF increased. Animals one-time exposed to the WSF showed initial mortality rates of 15–20%, with little further mortality. Food search success was lessened relative to the strength of the WSF and duration of exposure, with general recovery within two weeks. Distance moved was decreased, but time spent moving was not. The overall period of testing was four months.
Detection of intramyocardial scroll waves using absorptive transillumination imaging.

Optical imaging using voltage-sensitive dyes has become an important tool for studying vortex-like electrical waves in the heart. Such waves, known as spiral or scroll waves, can spontaneously form in pathological ventricular myocardium, causing ventricular fibrillation and sudden death. Until recently, observations of scroll waves were limited to their surface manifestations, thus providing little information about the shape and location of their organizing center, the filament. We use computer modeling to assess the feasibility of visualizing filaments using dynamic transillumination imaging in conjunction with near-IR voltage-sensitive absorptive dyes (absorptive transillumination). We simulate transillumination signals produced by the intramural scroll waves in a realistic slab of ventricular tissue with trabeculated endocardial surface. The computations use a detailed ionic model of electrical excitation (LRd) coupled to a photon transport model for cardiac tissue. Our simulations show that dynamic absorptive transillumination data, with subsequent processing involving either amplitude maps, time-space plots, or power-of-the-dominant-frequency maps, can be used to reliably detect intramural scroll waves through the whole thickness (~10 mm) of the ventricular wall. Neither variations in the thickness of the myocardial wall nor noise impeded the detection of intramural filaments.
Effects of race on interrater reliability of peer ratings.

The effect of race on interrater reliability of peer ratings was investigated using data collected on 1,219 U.S. Army ROTC cadets at summer camp. White raters rating white ratees had a higher interrater reliability than black raters rating black ratees. Implications of this study are discussed.
Simultaneous and concurrent polydrug use of alcohol and prescription drugs: prevalence, correlates, and consequences

Objective: In this study, we sought to examine the prevalence, correlates, and consequences associated with simultaneous polydrug use and concurrent polydrug use of alcohol and prescription drugs. For purposes of this investigation, simultaneous polydrug use referred to the co-ingestion of different drugs at the same time, and concurrent polydrug use referred to the use of different drugs on separate occasions within the past 12 months. Method: Undergraduate students attending a large public midwestern university in the United States were randomly selected to self-administer a Web survey. The sample consisted of 4,580 undergraduate students, with a mean (SD) age of 19.9 (2.0) years; the sample consisted of 50% women, and the racial breakdown was 65% white, 13% Asian, 7% black, 5% Hispanic, and 10% other race/ethnicity. The survey assessed simultaneous polydrug use and concurrent polydrug use of alcohol and four classes of prescription drugs: (1) pain medication, (2) stimulant medication, (3) sedative medi...
Reply to Korsmeyer and Gaut

Only a Promise of Happiness, for their close attention to which I am so grateful to Berys Gaut and Carolyn Korsmeyer, revolves around one central idea: that judgements of beauty always occur in medias res. To be struck by the beauty of something is to feel that I have not yet seen all that is of value in it, and that life would be somehow better if that beautiful object became part of it. Frederick, dazzled by Mme Arnoux in Flaubert's Sentimental Education, asks:.
Surface compositions of copper-silicon alloys

Abstract Auger spectroscopy of copper-silicon alloys showed that silicon is enriched at the surface of both an ordered compound, Cu3Si, and a solid-solution alloy (5 at% Si). The surface compositions are estimated using elemental standards. Silicon segregation is predicted by thermodynamic theories based on surface tensions of pure components and by the empirical Burton and Machlin rule. The Si(92 eV) Auger peak splits into two peaks upon alloying, making identification of alloyed silicon possible. Surface silicon is in an alloyed form for both Cu3Si and Cu0.95Si0.05. Above 670 K, additional silicon segregates to the surface of Cu3Si and both alloyed and elemental silicon are present. Alloying copper with silicon results in weakened silicon bonds and clean Cu3Si oxidizes much more rapidly in air than does elemental silicon. This weakened bonding may be one reason that copper catalyzes the reaction between methyl chloride and silicon to form methylchlorosilanes.
The graphs for which all strong orientations are hamiltonian

We show that the only nontrivial strongly orientable graphs for which every strong oreintation is Hamiltonian are complete graphs and cycles.
Factors Influencing the Abundance of Brook Trout (Salvelinus fonfinalis) in Forested Mountain Streams

ABSTRACT Physical and biological factors that appear to influence standing stocks (kg/ha) of brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) were identified in the Medicine Bow National Forest, Wyoming, for 32 forested reaches of mountain streams in drainages unaltered by human activity. Brook trout abundance declined as stream size increased. This decline appeared to be related to at least two factors—decline in habitat quality with increasing stream size and interaction with brown trout (Salmo trutta) at lower elevations. The greatest variation in brook trout abundance (R2=0.77) was accounted for by drainage basin area and elevation of the stream reach.
Total disruption of surgical wounds of the abdominal wall with reference to plasma proteinemia and plasma ascorbic acid

Abstract 1. 1. An analysis of seven total disruptions of abdominal incisions is presented. 2. 2. The presence of hypoproteinemia and of deficiency of plasma ascorbic acid in these cases and the possible influence of these factors is discussed.
Transmembrane potentials of human muscle cells in vivo

Abstract A system was designed and constructed which permits recording the resting and action potential of muscle fibers in man in vivo . The procedure involves passing a cannula containing a microelectrode through the skin into the muscle. No anesthesia is required. An average resting potential of 77.5 mv (with a standard deviation of 11.3 mv and a standard error of 1.2 mv) was observed for the anterior tibial muscle in normal subjects.
Study of the mutually coupled switched reluctance machine using the finite element-circuit coupled method

This paper studies the electromagnetic characteristics of the mutually coupled switched reluctance machine (MCSRM). The relationship between the MCSRM and the conventional switched reluctance machine (SRM) is emphasised with the MCSRM viewed from the perspective of the conventional SRM. Nonlinear analysis of the MCSRM using the finite element (FE) method is presented, with the peculiarities of the MCSRM highlighted. Control principles for different excitation patterns and operation modes are derived. The modelling difficulties associated with the MCSRM are discussed and the FE-circuit coupled simulation method is used to study the interactions between the MCSRM and the power electronics and to check the control principles derived from the nonlinear analysis. Both simulation and experimental results are provided.
Instability and collapse of flexibly-connected gabled frames

Abstract A nonlinear elasto-plastic instability analysis of flexibly connected and supported gabled frames with uniform and nonuniform geometry is presented. The analysis incorporates stability and strength. The procedure is based on nonlinear kinematic relations and linearly elastic material behavior except at the plastic regions (concentrated plasticity). The nonlinear flexible connections are represented by polynomial models. Thus, various types of response can be predicted. Through the chosen examples, the following types of response have been observed: elastic bifurcation instability, elastic limit point instability, elasto-plastic limit point instability and plastic collapse. The effect of several parameters is assessed in order to enhance our understanding of frame behavior. These include the effects of nonuniform geometry, of rotational restraints at the supports, of rise to span ratio, of beam to column stiffness ratio, of load eccentricity and of joint flexible connections.
Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms in Mothers of Premature Infants

Objective: To examine mothers' responses to having a premature infant in the neonatal intensive-care unit and to determine the degree to which they appear similar to a posttraumatic stress response. Design: Mothers were enrolled in this descriptive, correlational study shortly before the infant was discharged from the hospital. Data were collected at enrollment and when the infant was 6 months old, corrected for prematurity. Participants: A convenience sample of 30 mothers of high-risk premature infants. Interventions: None. Main Outcome Measures: A semistructured interview of the mothers was conducted at 6 months corrected age. Interview responses were analyzed to identify three symptoms related to posttraumatic stress disorder: re-experiencing, avoidance, and increased arousal. Other measures focused on maternal psychological well-being—neonatal intensive-care unit stress, depressive symptoms, and worry about the infant—and demographic characteristics. Infant illness severity included birth weight, length of mechanical ventilation, multiple birth, and the severity of neurological insults. Results: All mothers interviewed had at least one posttraumatic symptom, 12 had two, and 16 had three symptoms. Twenty-six mothers reported increased arousal; re-experiencing and avoidance were reported by 24 mothers each. The number, but not the type, of posttraumatic stress symptoms was related to maternal psychological well-being. Maternal demographic characteristics, except marital status, and infant illness severity, were unrelated to posttraumatic stress symptoms. Conclusions: These mothers appeared to be experiencing emotional responses similar to posttraumatic stress reactions at 6 months after their child's expected birth date. Since maternal emotional responses may affect the parenting of premature infants, additional nursing research is needed to provide a basis for interventions with these highly vulnerable mothers and infants.
Comparison of the Ca-Mg ATPase and calcium transport in rat and human erythrocytes: Evidence for an electrogenic mechanism

Abstract Inside out vesicles prepared from rat erythrocytes transport calcium by an electrogenic mechanism. Calmodulin stimulates the activity of a Ca-Mg ATPase, and also stimulates calcium transport. Permeant anions stimulate calcium transport relative to that observed when an impermeant anion (gluconate) is employed. The inside out vesicles transport phosphate anion in a calmodulin-stimulated, calcium- and ATP-dependent manner. Membrane potential sensitive fluorescent dyes demonstrate a positive interior membrane potential during calcium transport in the absence of permeant anions. The properties of the rat erythrocyte calcium transport system corresponds closely to those of the human erythrocyte; the activity of the Ca-Mg ATPase, rates and stoichiometries of calcium and phosphate transport and the degree of calmodulin stimulation are directly comparable between the two species.
On the electronic structure of molecular UO2 in the presence of Ar atoms: evidence for direct U-Ar bonding.

Calculations via scalar-relativistic density functional theory (DFT) and ab initio CCSD(T) methodologies are used to explore the possibility of direct interactions between molecular UO2 and Ar atoms. The 3Hg electronic state of UO2, which is an excited state of the isolated molecule, exhibits significant bonding to Ar in the model complexes UO2(Ar) and UO2(Ar)5. The calculated vibrational frequencies of ground-state 3Φu UO2 and UO2(Ar)5 with an (fφ)1(fδ)1 electron configuration agree well with the observed frequencies of UO2 in solid neon and solid argon, respectively. The results strongly suggest that the ground electron configuration of UO2 changes from 5f17s1 to 5f2 when the matrix host is changed from neon to argon.
MUON REACTIONS IN LIQUID HYDROGEN AND LIQUID DEUTERIUM

The reactions of muons in liquid hydrogen containing a low concentration of deuterium, $p\ensuremath{\mu}+d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}d\ensuremath{\mu}+p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{(d\ensuremath{\mu}p)}^{+}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\mathrm{He}}^{3}+{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{-}}(\mathrm{a}) or {({\mathrm{He}}^{3}\ensuremath{\mu})}^{+}+\ensuremath{\gamma}(\mathrm{b})$, and in liquid deuterium containing a low concentration of hydrogen, $d\ensuremath{\mu}+p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{(d\ensuremath{\mu}p)}^{+}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\mathrm{He}}^{3}+{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{-}}(\mathrm{c}) or {({\mathrm{He}}^{3}\ensuremath{\mu})}^{+}+\ensuremath{\gamma}(\mathrm{d})$, and $d\ensuremath{\mu}+d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{(d\ensuremath{\mu}d)}^{+}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\mathrm{He}}^{3}+n+{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{-}}(\mathrm{e}) or p+t+{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{-}}(\mathrm{f})$, have been investigated using the Chicago 9-in. bubble chamber. Using previously determined values for the formation and fusion rates of the ${(d\ensuremath{\mu}p)}^{+}$ ion in hydrogen in conjunction with a theoretical determination of the population of the various hyperfine levels in the ${(d\ensuremath{\mu}p)}^{+}$ ion, reaction (a) is found to occur in (15\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.5)% of all ${(d\ensuremath{\mu}p)}^{+}$ fusion reactions. The formation rate of the ${(d\ensuremath{\mu}d)}^{+}$ ion in liquid deuterium is found to be ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{\mathrm{dd}}=(3.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.3)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{5}$ ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$. The fusion rate of the ${(d\ensuremath{\mu}d)}^{+}$ is ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{\mathrm{df}}=(2.5\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.04)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{5}$ ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, and the fraction of muons which, having catalyzed reaction (e), are subsequently bound in a ${({\mathrm{He}}^{3}\ensuremath{\mu})}^{+}$ muonic ion is (0.31\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.0034). The rate of de-excitation to the lower hyperfine level of the $d\ensuremath{\mu}$ muonic atom via the reaction $d\ensuremath{\mu}(\frac{3}{2})+d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}d+d\ensuremath{\mu}(\frac{1}{2})$ has been investigated and found to be $(7.9\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2.8)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{5} invsecl{\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{(\frac{3}{2}\ensuremath{-}\frac{1}{2})}l(1.35\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.48)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{6} invsec$. The interference of reactions (c), (d), (e), and (f) in the investigation of the spin-independent capture reaction ${\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{-}}+d\ensuremath{\rightarrow}n+n+\ensuremath{\nu}$ is discussed.
Guanosine kinase from Trichomonas vaginalis.

A novel guanosine kinase was partially purified from the parasitic protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. Unlike nucleoside kinases from other sources, the preferred substrate for this enzyme was guanosine (Vmax/Km = 120). The enzyme also catalyzed the phosphorylation of inosine (Vmax/Km = 3), uridine (2), adenosine (0.5), cytidine (0.2), and 2′-deoxyguanosine (0.1). The 2′-deoxyribonucleosides of adenine, hypoxanthine, uracil, cytosine and thymine were not phosphorylated. The Km for ATP was 6.6 μM. The enzyme was extremely labile in the absence of ATP. As a result, only a 20-fold purification with 25% recovery of activity was possible. However, this preparation was free of nucleoside phosphorylase, nucleoside phosphotransferase and the distinct uridine kinase. The enzyme had a broad optimum of pH 6.5–8. It had a molecular weight of 15000.
XTREM: a power simulator for the Intel XScale® core

Managing power concerns in icroprocessors has become a pressing research problem across the domains of computer architecture, CAD, and compilers. As a result, several parameterized cycle-level power simulators have been introduced. While these simulators can be quite useful for microarchitectural studies, their generality limits how accurate they can be for any one chip family. Furthermore, their hardware focus means that they do not explicitly enable studying the interaction of different software layers, such as Java applications and their underlying Runtime system software.This paper describes and evaluates XTREM, a power simulation tool tailored for the Intel XScale icroarchitecture. In building XTREM, our goals were to develop a icroarchitecture simulator that, while still offering size parameterizations for cache, TLB, etc., more accurately reflected a realistic processor pipeline. We present a detailed set of validations based on ultimeter power measurements and hardware performance counter sampling. Based on these validations across a wide range of stressmarks, Java benchmarks, and non-Java benchmarks, XTREM has an average performance error of only 6.5% and an even smaller average power error: 4%. The paper goes on to present a selection of application studies enabled by the simulator. For example, presenting power behavior vs. time for selected embedded C and Java CLDC benchmarks, we can make power distinctions between the two programming domains as well as distinguishing Java application (JITted code) power from Java Runtime system power. We also study how the Intel XScale core 's power consumption varies for different data activity factors, creating power swings as large as 50mW for a 200Mhz core. We are planning to release XTREM for wider use, and feel that it offers a useful step forward for compiler and embedded software designers.
Beyond Cyber-Doom: Assessing the Limits of Hypothetical Scenarios in the Framing of Cyber-Threats

ABSTRACT Cybersecurity proponents often rely on cyber-doom scenarios as a key tactic for calling attention to prospective cyberthreats. This article critically examines cyber-doom scenarios by placing them in a larger historical context, assessing how realistic they are, and drawing out the policy implications of relying on such tales. It draws from relevant research in the history of technology, military history, and disaster sociology to examine some of the key assertions and assumptions of cyber-doom scenarios. The article argues that cyber-doom scenarios are the latest manifestation of fears about “technology-out-of-control” in Western societies, that they are unrealistic, and that they encourage the adoption of counterproductive, even dangerous policies. The article concludes by offering alternative principles for the formulation of cybersecurity policy.
An excitable signal integrator couples to an idling cytoskeletal oscillator to drive cell migration

It is generally believed that cytoskeletal activities drive random cell migration, whereas signal transduction events initiated by receptors regulate the cytoskeleton to guide cells. However, we find that the cytoskeletal network, involving SCAR/WAVE, Arp 2/3 and actin-binding proteins, is capable of generating only rapid oscillations and undulations of the cell boundary. The signal transduction network, comprising multiple pathways that include Ras GTPases, PI(3)K and Rac GTPases, is required to generate the sustained protrusions of migrating cells. The signal transduction network is excitable, exhibiting wave propagation, refractoriness and maximal response to suprathreshold stimuli, even in the absence of the cytoskeleton. We suggest that cell motility results from coupling of 'pacemaker' signal transduction and 'idling motor' cytoskeletal networks, and various guidance cues that modulate the threshold for triggering signal transduction events are integrated to control the mode and direction of migration.
Response to Bell et al.

Thanks for your interest (see Bell et al., 2014 ) in my Perspective piece. I am happy to provide more information on the methodology behind and rationale for my analysis.
Managing linearity in radio front-ends

Front-end linearity plays a crucial role in determining the overall performance of a radio receiver. Non-linearity can impact performance in several ways, including degradation in sensitivity, reduction in gain and the appearance of spurious energy within the frequency band of interest from out-of-band sources. In this paper, an overview of techniques for enhancing front-end linearity is presented. Circuit and device-level techniques, as well as architectures for linearization are described.
Alternatively Expressed Domains of AU-rich Element RNA-binding Protein 1 (AUF1) Regulate RNA-binding Affinity, RNA-induced Protein Oligomerization, and the Local Conformation of Bound RNA Ligands

AU-rich element RNA-binding protein 1 (AUF1) binding to AU-rich elements (AREs) in the 3′-untranslated regions of mRNAs encoding many cytokines and other regulatory proteins modulates mRNA stability, thereby influencing protein expression. AUF1-mRNA association is a dynamic paradigm directed by various cellular signals, but many features of its function remain poorly described. There are four isoforms of AUF1 that result from alternative splicing of exons 2 and 7 from a common pre-mRNA. Preliminary evidence suggests that the different isoforms have varied functional characteristics, but no detailed quantitative analysis of the properties of each isoform has been reported despite their differential expression and regulation. Using purified recombinant forms of each AUF1 protein variant, we used chemical cross-linking and gel filtration chromatography to show that each exists as a dimer in solution. We then defined the association mechanisms of each AUF1 isoform for ARE-containing RNA substrates and quantified relevant binding affinities using electrophoretic mobility shift and fluorescence anisotropy assays. Although all AUF1 isoforms generated oligomeric complexes on ARE substrates by sequential dimer association, sequences encoded by exon 2 inhibited RNA-binding affinity. By contrast, the exon 7-encoded domain enhanced RNA-dependent protein oligomerization, even permitting cooperative RNA-binding activity in some contexts. Finally, fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based assays showed that the different AUF1 isoforms remodel bound RNA substrates into divergent structures as a function of protein:RNA stoichiometry. Together, these data describe isoform-specific characteristics among AUF1 ribonucleoprotein complexes, which likely constitute a mechanistic basis for differential functions and regulation among members of this protein family.
Parameterized object sensitivity for points-to and side-effect analyses for Java

The goal of points-to analysis for Java is to determine the set of objects pointed to by a reference variable or a reference objet field. Improving the precision of practical points-to analysis is important because points-to information has a wide variety of client applications in optimizing compilers and software engineering tools. In this paper we present object sensitivity, a new form of context sensitivity for flow-insensitive points-to analysis for Java. The key idea of our approach is to analyze a method separately for each of the objects on which this method is invoked. To ensure flexibility and practicality, we propose a parameterization framework that allows analysis designers to control the tradeoffs between cost and precision in the object-sensitive analysis.Side-effect analysis determines the memory locations that may be modified by the execution of a program statement. This information is needed for various compiler optimizations and software engineering tools. We present a new form of side-effect analysis for Java which is based on object-sensitive points-to analysis.We have implemented one instantiation of our parameterized object-sensitive points-to analysis. We compare this instantiation with a context-insensitive points-to analysis for Java which is based on Andersen's analysis for C [4]. On a set of 23 Java programs, our experiments show that the two analyses have comparable cost. In some cases the object-sensitive analysis is actually faster than the context-insensitive analysis. Our results also show that object sensitivity significantly improves the precision of side-effect analysis, call graph construction, and virtual call resolution. These experiments demonstrate that object-sensitive analyses can achieve significantly better precision than context-insensitive ones, while at the same time remaining efficient and practical.
Neighborhood socioeconomic position and tuberculosis transmission: A retrospective cohort study

Current understanding of tuberculosis (TB) genotype clustering in the US is based on individual risk factors. This study sought to identify whether area-based socioeconomic status (SES) was associated with genotypic clustering among culture-confirmed TB cases. A retrospective cohort analysis was performed on data collected on persons with incident TB in King County, Washington, 2004–2008. Multilevel models were used to identify the relationship between area-level SES at the block group level and clustering utilizing a socioeconomic position index (SEP). Of 519 patients with a known genotyping result and block group, 212 (41%) of isolates clustered genotypically. Analyses suggested an association between lower area-based SES and increased recent TB transmission, particularly among US-born populations. Models in which community characteristics were measured at the block group level demonstrated that lower area-based SEP was positively associated with genotypic clustering after controlling for individual covariates. However, the trend in higher clustering odds with lower SEP index quartile diminished when additional block-group covariates. Results stress the need for TB control interventions that take area-based measures into account, with particular focus on poor neighborhoods. Interventions based on area-based characteristics, such as improving case finding strategies, utilizing location-based screening and addressing social inequalities, could reduce recent rates of transmission.
A microeconomic modelling and analysis methodology for production quantity determination

One of the questions manufacturing decision makers often face is which products to produce in what quantities, and what the profit potential of each product is over the other products produced in their manufacturing system. In this research a relatively quick and simple methodology to determine the best quantities of a product to produce is proposed. The methodology has been formulated by modelling manufacturing as a closed microeconomic system that has parameters of resources and product requirements defined by the owning firm. The methodology uses an iterative search to evaluate the complex system of interdependence between products themselves, their capital resource requirements and output quantities (revenue potential) and opportunity costs, to determine product quantities that provide optimum profit. The methodology has been implemented as an algorithm using the C++ programming language and has been validated using an actual problem from the industry.
Prospective Validity Study: CPI Work Orientation and Managerial Potential Scales.

Work Orientation (Wo) and Managerial Potential (Mp) are two special purpose scales designed for the California Personality Inventory (CPI) to assess personality characteristics believed to be associated with desirable work performance behaviors and characteristics. Little research is currently available to examine the validity of these two scales. The present study is a prospective validity study in which 114 job applicants for non managerial positions in an entertainment facility were administered the CPI prior to hiring. Two-year post employment ratings of employee characteristics were used as the criteria to validate Wo and Mp. The two scales were significantly correlated to these ratings consistently, but were not related to employment status at the 2-year follow-up.
Programmable self-assembly for microsystem integration

We present microscale self-assembly as a suite of techniques that promotes the electronics industry's initiative towards functional diversification and function densification, and two specific programmable self-assembly projects that are driven by real-world limitations and aspirations of present assembly and packaging technologies. Towards said goals, we demonstrate that our processes can improve existing assembly and packaging techniques, and also enable possibilities restricted by current industry methodologies.