cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The dual role of oxygen in avocado fruit respiration: Kinetic analysis and computer modelling of diffusion-affected respiratory oxygen isotherms

Abstract. Oxygen plays a dual role in affecting the rate of respiration of avocado fruit (Persea americana Mill, cv. Hass). The respiration rate v. oxygen concentration curve for steady state avocado fruit respiration is biphasic. The curve becomes monophasic, however, when measured under conditions of rapidly changing oxygen concentration in a closed circulating system. The results are interpreted as indicating that oxygen at relatively high concentrations modulates respiration independent of its interaction with the terminal oxidase—presumably cytochrome oxidase. A computer model is presented which takes into account the effect of diffusion barriers on the kinetics of oxygen utilization as a function of concentration in avocado fruit. The model is used to make predictions concerning the apparent Km of the terminal oxidase or oxidases in avocado fruit. It is concluded that the apparent Km of the terminal oxidase of uninhibited avocado fruit is that of cytochrome oxidase, and that the alternative, cyanide-resistant oxidase of avocado fruit does not contribute appreciably to the uninhibited respiration of preclimacteric or climacteric avocado fruit.
The Career Decision Scale: A Test of Concurrent Validity

To assess the concurrent validity of the Career Decision Scale a number of correlations between the scale and Harren's measure were computed. Predictions about relationships between Harren's types ...
Synthesis of New Epiminoisopentenoids

Abstract Treatment of the isopentenoids geraniol, farnesol, and lanosterol with an excess of iodine azide and lithium aluminum hydride results in the selective introduction of the aziridine function at the terminal and least hindered isopentenoid unit. Treatment of squalene in an analogous manner resulted in the formation of diepiminosqualene.
A re-examination of scaling laws in the traveling wave interaction

Abstract A re-examination of traveling wave interactions (in the helix traveling wave tube and the free-electron laser) is performed to investigate the validity of the well-known scaling laws in which the gain varies as the cube (fourth) root of the current when space-charge effects are negligible (dominant). The results indicate that these scaling laws are simplistic generalizations which break down for broad bandwidth interactions, and that the actual variation of the gain with the current can be more complex.
The relationship between the monetary regime and output volatility: a multivariate GARCH-M model of the Japanese experience, 1919–1996

Abstract In this paper we tried to determine whether or not adherence to a floating exchange rate regime helped the Japanese economy to absorb shocks which originated from domestic and foreign sources based on the Japanese experience from the interwar to the post Bretton Woods floating exchange rate period. Using a multivariate GARCH-M model, we analyzed the relation of exchange rate volatility and output volatility directly. The results imply that the floating exchange rate regime has helped the Japanese economy to insulate itself from foreign shocks. The estimated coefficient which represents the response to the foreign shocks decreases and the decrease is significant in the floating exchange rate regime.
Consolidation of advanced WC–Co powders

Abstract WC–Co powders were consolidated using a new method of extrusion. The consolidation process included two equal channel angular extrusions through a 90° die at temperatures of 300°C, 1100°C or 1200°C on composite billets containing different WC–Co powder blends. The composition investigated was WC–14%Co with particle sizes ranging from 0.2 to 0.8 μm. The as-received powders and consolidated-annealed materials are characterized for structure, particle and grain size, impurity content, void fraction, composition and hardness. Full compaction is achieved after two extrusions at 1200°C and subsequent annealing in argon at 1400°C. The results compare favorably with results on commercially consolidated materials. The findings show that angular extrusion combined with post extrusion annealing can be used to successfully consolidate WC–Co powders into hard and strong cemented carbides of interest to the cutting tool and oil field industries.
A volume integral equation technique for multiple scattering problems in elastodynamics

Abstract A volume integral equation method is introduced as a new numerical scheme for the solution of certain elastodynamic problems in unbounded solids containing multiple inclusions. The effectiveness of the method is compared with the boundary integral equation method for different problem geometries. For the single inclusion problem, both methods are found to work equally well. For multiple inclusions, the volume integral equation method is shown to be much more convenient for numerical formulation and to give very accurate results.
On Hamiltonicity of Vertex-Transitive Graphs and Digraphs of Orderp4

The main result of this paper is that vertex-transitive graphs and digraphs of orderp4are Hamiltonian, wherepis a prime number.
PORTABLE INTEGRATION EXPERTISE AS THE FOUNDATION OF FLEXIBLE INTEGRATION CAPABILITY

Organizational flexible integration capability equips organizations to deal with the whole range of problems presented by dynamic environments. Adopting the language of dynamic capability research we advance four components that constitute flexible integration capability. These are a dominant logic of opportunity, a wide variety of problem solving projects, the deployment of portable integration expertise, and organizational practices support the development of portable integration expertise. Of these four portable integration expertise is a purely individual level capability. Organization level flexible integration capability is founded on the development of portable integration expertise by individuals. Organizations can facilitate portable integration expertise by structuring careers, valuing long term goals and objectives, adopting knowledge management practices and being receptive to external sources of knowledge.
A general-purpose automatic multichannel electronic switch for EEG artifact elimination.

Abstract A system has been developed to sample and average multichannel ABR data. All channels are sampled simultaneously. The simple design incorporates one sample-and-hold amplifier and one analog-to-digital converter in each channel. For sampling of 13 channels or less, sampling interval must exceed 36 μsec for full 10-bit resolution. For sampling more than 13 channels, data transfer to the host computer limits minimum sampling interval to 20 + (1.2 × N) μsec, where N is the number of channels sampled.
Conductivity, optical absorption, photoluminescence, and X-band optically detected magnetic resonance of novel poly(2,5-dibutoxyparaphenyleneacetylene) (PDBOPA)

Abstract The optical properties of novel PDBOPA (average molecular weight ≈ 48 000) are described and discussed. Exposure to I2 vapor at ≈80 °C increases the conductivity to ≈5 × 10−3 S/cm, but the I2 rapidly evolves from the film at room temperature. The absorption onsets at 2.53 eV and peaks at 2.81 eV. The 2.71 eV-excited photoluminescence (PL) peaks at ≈2.0 eV in films and solutions. In all cases, it is very intense and largely structureless. This contrasts with the clear vibronic structure of the PL of poly(3-alkylthiophene) (P3AT) and poly(2,5-dialkoxyparaphenylenevinylene) (PDOPV) films and blends. As in P3AT and PDOPV, three PL-enhancing optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) features are observed: (i) a strong narrow (≈15 G wide) resonance at g = 2.0025, attributed to intrachain polaron recombination; (ii) a ≈1.0 kG wide triplet powder pattern around g ∼ 2, and (iii) the Δms = 2 transitions of these excitons at g≊4.07 . The results are discussed in relation to conformational defects resulting from the near cylindrical symmetry of the backbone acetylene units.
QUALITY CONTROL STANDARDS FOR COOKED FROZEN GREEN BEANS HELD ON A STEAM TABLE FOR VARYING HOLDING TIMES

Two varieties of whole green beans, prepared by steaming, were held on a steam table (>60°C) with portions removed at 10-min intervals up to 60 min. Dominant wavelengths and Instron measurements for force, shear peak area and work were determined for the seven holding periods. Varieties were inherently different in color (P < 0.01). Holding time affected dominant wavelength (P < 0.01), Munsell color (P < 0.01), force (P < 0.05) and work (P < 0.05). Texture, color and overall acceptability were evaluated by a trained sensory panel. A consumer panel also evaluated overall acceptability. Orthogonal comparisons of sensory and objective evaluations for dominant wavelengths, force and work were linear. Acceptability scores were highest at 30-min heated holding time. Statistical analysis indicated that objective quality control standards could be defined by a range of Munsell colors or dominant wavelengths and/or force and work measurements obtained at optimum holding periods.
Observation of microplasmodesmata in both heterocyst-forming and non-heterocyst forming filamentous cyanobacteria by freeze-fracture electron microscopy

Structures which may establish cytoplasmic continuity between adjacent cells of filamentous cyanobacteria have been observed by freeze-fracture electron microscopy. They are visible in the septum region of the plasma membrane as pits on the E-face (EF) and corresponding protrusions on the P-face (PF). Between 100 and 250 of these structures, termed microplasmodesmata, were present between adjacent vegetative cells in all four strains of heterocyst-forming filamentous cyanobacteria, Anabaena cylindrica Lemm, A. variabilis (IUCC B377), A. variabilis Kutz. (ATCC 29413) and Nostoc muscorum, examined. Only 30–40 microplasmodesmata were observed between adjacent cells in two species, Phormidium luridum and Plectonema boryanum, that do not form heterocysts. The results suggest that in species that form heterocysts a greater degree of cytoplasmic continuity is established, presumably to facilitate the exchange of metabolites. In species capable of forming heterocysts, the number of microplasmodesmata per septum between two adjacent vegetative cells remained constant whether the filaments were grown in the presence of NH4 and lacked heteroxysts or under N2-fixing conditions and contained heterocysts. When a vegetative cell differentiates into a heterocyst, about 80% of the existing microplasmodesmata are destroyed as the poles of the cell become constricted into narrow necks leaving smaller areas of contact with the adjacent vegetative cells.
A density functional theoretic study of novel silicon-carbon fullerene-like nanostructures: Si40C20, Si60C20, Si36C24, and Si60C24

Fullerene-like silicon nanostructures with twenty and twenty-four carbon atoms on the surface of the Si60 cage by substitution, as well as inside the cage at various orientations have been studied within the generalized gradient approximation to density functional theory. Full geometry optimizations have been performed without any symmetry constraints using the Gaussian 03 suite of programs and the LANL2DZ basis set. Thus, for the silicon atom, the Hay-Wadt pseudopotential with the associated basis set is used for the core electrons and the valence electrons, respectively. For the carbon atom, the Dunning/Huzinaga double zeta basis set is employed. Electronic and geometric properties of these nanostructures are presented and discussed in detail. Optimized silicon-carbon fullerene like nanostructures are found to have increased stability compared to the bare Si60 cage and the stability depends on the number and the orientation of carbon atoms, as well as on the nature of silicon-carbon and carbon-carbon bonding.
Piezoelectric properties of bone as functions of moisture content

FUKADA and Yasuda1 showed that dry bone is piezoelectric in the classic sense, that is, mechanical stress produces polarisation (direct effect) and application of an electric field produces strain (converse effect)2. The possibility that the mechanism for osteogenesis is electrical3 has aroused interest in an investigation of such effects in the more nearly physiological condition represented by wet bone. Recent developments in electrical stimulation of fracture healing4,5 have further emphasised the importance of characterising the piezoelectric properties of wet bone. As the piezoelectricity of wet collagen6 decreases to zero at a moisture content equal to 45% of the dry weight (which corresponds to almost 100% humidity)7, there is some doubt as to whether wet bone could be piezoelectric. Observations of voltages in wet bone under stress, have been made under conditions giving such ambiguous results that they suggested alternative concepts to that of classic piezoelectricity8–11. In view of the confusion about the nature of the voltage developed when wet bone is stressed, we have used a simple longitudinal stress system with sinusoidally varying drive, to measure both converse and direct piezoelectric coefficients of bone as functions of humidity (and ultimately of moisture content). The results show unambiguously that wet bone behaves as a piezoelectric material.
The Spotlight Effect Revisited: Overestimating the Manifest Variability of Our Actions and Appearance

Abstract Three studies examined people's estimates of the perceived variability of their appearance and behavior in the eyes of others. Whether assessing the manifest variability of their physical appearance (Studies 1a, 1b, and 1c), their athletic accomplishments (Study 2), or their performance on a popular videogame (Study 3), participants consistently overestimated the extent to which their ups and downs would be noted by observers. The results of Study 3 suggest that this bias stems in part from a failure to appreciate the extent to which observers are preoccupied with managing their own actions. Discussion focuses on how this corollary of the “spotlight effect” can contribute to social anxiety and gnawing regrets of inaction.
Life History of Pink Hibiscus Mealybug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on Three Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis Cultivars

ABSTRACT The pink hibiscus mealybug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus Green, is a widespread invasive pest of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis in Florida and elsewhere. We evaluated 3 cultivars of H. rosa-sinensis expected to have high (‘President’), low (‘Double Red’), and intermediate (‘Joanne’) levels of susceptibility to this pest. We found little evidence that M. hirsutus responded differently among the 3 cultivars in terms of survival, development rate, size, or oviposition period in laboratory tests at a permissive temperature. However, higher average fecundity (377 eggs per female) was observed on “President” compared with the other 2 cultivars (≈ 300 eggs/female). The Fl generation developed on all varieties, with similar cumulative survival rates of 71, 74, and 76% on “Double Red”, “Joanne” and “President” cultivars, respectively. In greenhouse tests over 9 wk, feeding symptoms of stunted and deformed plant terminals (“bunchy top”) were observed in all cultivars but increased more rapidly in “President”, especial...
A comparison of coronary CTA and stress testing using high-efficiency SPECT MPI for the evaluation of chest pain in the emergency department.

Background Recent studies have compared CTA to stress testing and MPI using older Na-I SPECT cameras and traditional rest-stress protocols, but are limited by often using optimized CTA protocols but suboptimal MPI methodology. We compared CTA to stress testing with modern SPECT MPI using high-efficiency CZT cameras and stress-first protocols in an ED population.
High-Pressure Equation of State for Solid Krypton from Interatomic Potentials

The pressure-volume isotherm for krypton at 300 K is evaluated by the Monte Carlo method using pair and three-body potentials. The pair potentials used are that of Aziz and Slaman and a slightly modified version of their potential which gives better agreement with high-energy scattering data. The three-body potentials considered are the Axilrod-Teller interaction and the first-order three-body exchange interaction as parametrized by Loubeyre. The results are compared with recent measurements at pressures up to 300 kbar and the implications of the comparison are discussed. The best agreement with experiment is found using the Axilrod-Teller interaction as the only many-body interaction, indicating that the three-body exchange interaction is to a large extent canceled by higher many-body interactions, at least in the highly symmetrical environment of the crystal.
Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Using Biological Tissue Grafts

ABSTRACT Synthetic mesh products have been used to repair abdominal wall defects (eg, hernias) for many years. Biological mesh products are now available as an option when synthetic mesh products are not appropriate. To correctly prepare biological tissue grafts for use in the OR, perioperative nurses must understand the types of grafts available. Biological tissue grafts may be harvested from human, porcine, bovine, or equine hosts and from skin, pericardium, or small intestine submucosa. AORN J 90 (October 2009) 513–520. © AORN, Inc, 2009.
The Nuka System of Care: improving health through ownership and relationships

Southcentral Foundation’s Nuka System of Care, based in Anchorage, Alaska, is a result of a customerdriven overhaul of what was previously a bureaucratic system centrally controlled by the Indian Health Service. Alaska Native people are in control as the ‘‘customer-owners’’ of this health care system. The vision and mission focus on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness and working together as a Native Community. Coupled with operational principles based on relationships, core concepts and key points, this framework has fostered an environment for creativity, innovation and continuous quality improvement. Alaska Native people have received national and international recognition for their work and have set high standards for performance excellence, community engagement, and overall impact on population health. In this article, the health care transformation led by Alaska Native people is described and the benefits and results of customer ownership and the relationship-based Nuka System of Care are discussed. Keywords: Alaska Native; wellness; self-determination; relationships; outreach; public health; quality improvement (Published: 5 August 2013) This paper is part of Supplement 1, 2013, ICCH15 Proceedings . More papers from this Supplement can be found here . Citation: Int J Circumpolar Health 2013, 72: 21118 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/ijch.v72i0.21118
A reproducible rep-rate high-power magnetron microwave tube

Observations are reported of the reproducible operation of an intense relativistic electron-beam-driven high-pulsed-power magnetron microwave tube at rep-rates of 1 Hz. These are the first observations of a reproducible rep-rate high-power magnetron, and microwave tubes in general, under several specific conditions: ultra-high vacuum; with a compact tunable modulator; and using extraction into the TE/sub 10/ mode which radiates a polarized pencil beam. The experiments were performed in the 2 pi mode. Power levels approaching 300 MW were achieved in short pulses (less than 100 ns). >
Reduction of parameter sensitivity in an induction motor current regulator using integrated pilot sensors in the low-side switches

A closed-loop synchronous-frame current regulator for an induction machine drive that is capable of delivering high-quality performance characteristics using integrated pilot current sensors in the three low-side switches of a three-phase bridge inverter has been developed. However, the necessary current reconstruction exhibits sensitivity to errors in the machine parameters, which has been documented during this investigation. This paper presents a technique for introducing a gated integrator into the controller gain amplifier that compensates for parameter errors using feedback information from all three of the phase currents during the periodic intervals when it is available. A numerical singularity in the current reconstruction algorithm during light-load operation is overcome by introducing an alternative first-order current estimator that is activated over narrow angular spans of the fundamental component vector rotation. This paper also presents an in situ technique to compensate gain differences between the three pilot devices in the inverter unit. The effectiveness of these improvements is verified using experimental results.
Domain architecture of the stator complex of the A1A0-ATP synthase from Thermoplasma acidophilum.

A key structural element in the ion translocating F-, A-, and V-ATPases is the peripheral stalk, an assembly of two polypeptides that provides a structural link between the ATPase and ion channel domains. Previously, we have characterized the peripheral stalk forming subunits E and H of the A-ATPase from Thermoplasma acidophilum and demonstrated that the two polypeptides interact to form a stable heterodimer with 1:1 stoichiometry (Kish-Trier, E., Briere, L. K., Dunn, S. D., and Wilkens, S. (2008) J. Mol. Biol. 375, 673–685). To define the domain architecture of the A-ATPase peripheral stalk, we have now generated truncated versions of the E and H subunits and analyzed their ability to bind each other. The data show that the N termini of the subunits form an α-helical coiled-coil, ∼80 residues in length, whereas the C-terminal residues interact to form a globular domain containingα- and β-structure. We find that the isolated C-terminal domain of the E subunit exists as a dimer in solution, consistent with a recent crystal structure of the related Pyrococcus horikoshii A-ATPase E subunit (Lokanath, N. K., Matsuura, Y., Kuroishi, C., Takahashi, N., and Kunishima, N. (2007) J. Mol. Biol. 366, 933–944). However, upon the addition of a peptide comprising the C-terminal 21 residues of the H subunit (or full-length H subunit), dimeric E subunit C-terminal domain dissociates to form a 1:1 heterodimer. NMR spectroscopy was used to show that H subunit C-terminal peptide binds to E subunit C-terminal domain via the terminal α-helices, with little involvement of the β-sheet region. Based on these data, we propose a structural model of the A-ATPase peripheral stalk.
Proton Conductivity Measurements in Yttrium Barium Cerate by Impedance Spectroscopy

Proton-conducting solid-electrolyte perovskite ceramics based on acceptor-doped barium and strontium cerates have become the focus of extensive investigations as candidate materials for fuel cells that operate at moderate temperatures. To assess the suitability of a material for this application, it is necessary that bulk electrolyte conductivity be measured at the operating temperature. However, very little reliable published conductivity data exist above 600°C. Protonic conductivity in yttrium-doped barium cerate has been observed to be less at high temperatures than would be expected, based on the activation energy and preexponential for hydrogen transport at temperatures <300°C. Conductivity data obtained from impedance spectroscopy on BaCe 0.9 Y 0.1 O 3-α over the extended temperature range of 100°-900°C are presented. An Arrhenius plot of the data shows two distinct linear regions, suggesting that two different rate-limiting processes occur in series with a break-over transition at ∼250°C. The decrease in conductivity is apparently not due to dehydration. An activation energy for protonic transport of 0.26 eV, about one-half of the low-temperature value, is proposed, based on curve fitting of the high-temperature data.
Faulting Prediction Model for Design of Concrete Pavement Structures

Faulting is considered as a major distress type in jointed concrete pavements. The effects of faulting have implications on the pavement both structurally and in terms of serviceability. Faulting if not maintained in a timely manner can also lead to other distresses and impose considerable repair costs. Several factors play a role in the complex process associated with faulting. Traffic loads and layer stiffness, strength, and thicknesses are important as well as other factors such as the presence of water underneath the slab as it may be associated with the potential for rainfall are factors to be addressed in design. This paper presents a design process for predicting erosion-affected distress that occurs in concrete pavements using mechanistic parameters such as shear stress, erosion resistance of sublayer, and deformation. This mechanistic-empirical process also considers key climate effects in terms of the number of wet days. This process is embroidered within a computer program that analyzes a concrete pavement structurally and predicts the erosion and faulting at the slab joints. This program is capable to be calibrated with field performance or laboratory erosion data. Field data were used to validate the model's outcomes. Results show that the model fits well with the field data and can be implemented for design and maintenance management purposes.
A Method of Order Reduction for Structural Dynamics Based on Riccati Iteration

This paper presents a new method of order reduction based on recent work of a similar nature applicable to system dynamics and control. This method provides a computational procedure for producing a condensed model which exactly preserves the slowest nl modes of the total n modes of the original model for almost any set of nt degrees of freedom retained in the condensed model. The method can also be used to compute the eigensolutions corresponding to the n, slowest modes of the original structural dynamics problem. The accuracy of the condensed model and the speed/accuracy performance of the eigensolver are compared with standard methods for a 90 degree-of-freedom cantilevered plate.
Control of a space rigidizable-inflatable boom using embedded piezoelectric composite actuators

An experimental investigation of vibration testing and active control of a space rigidizable inflatable composite boom containing embedded piezoelectric composite actuators was conducted. Inflatable deployable space structures offer reduced mass, higher packaging efficiency, lower life cycle cost, simpler design with fewer parts, and higher deployment reliability for many large deployable spacecraft structures applications. Enhancing deployed precision and repeatability for these structures is an ongoing research area; in particular, for rigidizable inflatable material systems. In this study we demonstrate in situ vibration testing and active damping using piezoelectric Macro- Fiber Composite actuators embedded within a typical space-rigidizable deployable composite boom. The embedded Macro-Fiber Composite are shown to be capable of surviving integration, packaging, deployment and thermal rigidization in vacuum, and subsequently operating at their full actuation capability. Positive position feedback controllers using accelerometer, laser vibrometer, and strain gage feedback signals are designed and experimentally evaluated. Velocity-proportional and acceleration proportional controllers shown to be capable of attenuating fundamental bending response significantly using only modest control authority (-23dB with 10% of available voltage).
M-coop: a scalable infrastructure for network measurement

We propose M-coop, a scalable, incrementally-deployable, peer-to-peer measurement infrastructure to estimate distance metrics (such as latency, hop count, etc.) between any pair of IP addresses on the Internet. The idea behind M-coop is to have a network of nodes, each of which measures to a small set of peers. When an estimate between two addresses is required, several of these measurements are composed to give the final estimate. Since M-coop is a dynamic peer-to-peer system, we provide and evaluate heuristics for node joins and failures. By conducting experiments on the Internet, we show that our approach has performance similar to other schemes such as IDMaps (P. Francis et al., 2001.
In the wake of the spill: Environmental views along the Gulf Coast

Objectives. We analyze patterns in environmental views of Gulf Coast residents, in the wake of the 2010 oil spill. To what extent do spill-related and other environmental views vary with individual characteristics, personal experience with the spill, or characteristics of place? Methods. About 2,000 residents of selected coastal regions in Louisiana and Florida were interviewed by telephone in late summer 2010. Results. One-quarter of the respondents said that their environmental views had changed as a result of the spill. Despite reporting more change, more spill effects, and greater threats from climate-induced sea-level rise, Louisiana respondents were less likely to support a deepwater moratorium, alternative energy, or resource conservation. Conclusions. Results are consistent with real effects from the spill. Differences betweenLouisianaandFloridarespondentsarenotexplainedbyspilleffectsorindividual characteristics, however. The patterns reflect biophysical differences of the coastlines that shaped their socioeconomic development. On April 20, 2010, an explosion at the Deepwater Horizon oil drilling platform off Louisiana killed 11 workers and touched off the largest marine oil spill in history. Oil from a ruptured pipe poured into the deep sea for three months, televised live via robot-operated cameras. Regulatory failures together with shortcuts in safety equipment and procedures precipitated this accident,butintheimmediateaftermathquestionsofblametooksecondplace to worries about the scale of the disaster. By mid-June, oil was washing ashore on wetlands, barrier islands, and beaches of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle. An estimated 4.4 million barrels escaped before the wellhead was successfully capped on July 15, and closure ensured by a relief well on September 19 (Crone and Tolstoy, 2010). As oil poured into the sea during the summer of 2010, economic and political waves spread ahead of the oil. Much of the Gulf quickly was closed
Environmental Attitude and Environmental Knowledge

Increased knowledge about the environment is assumed to change environmental attitudes, and both environmental knowledge and attitudes are assumed to influence environmental policy. However, little research has focused on public environmental knowledge or the relationship between knowledge and environmental attitudes. This paper uses telephone survey data from 680 Kentucky residents to address this gap in the literature. Specifically, this analysis examines how environmental knowledge and attitudes are related sociodemographic factors (gender, age, education, income and residence). As in similar research, the respondents to this survey did not score well on the measures of environmental knowledge. Environmental knowledge is found to be consistently and positively related to environmental attitudes, although the relationship is not especially strong. With the correlation of knowledge and attitudes, the low level of environmental knowledge has disturbing implications for environmental policy.
Effects of biased psychological reports on two types of teachers' ratings

Abstract This study investigated the effects of biased psychological reports on teachers' behavioral and expectations ratings of a kindergarten child seen in a videotape. Biases were produced by randomly distributing to one third of the subjects a fictitious favorable psychological report, while one third read a fictitious unfavorable version. The remaining third read a short fable and acted as a control group. Subjects rated the test performance of the child in the videotape and then attributed their expectations for his possessing certain cognitive and effective traits. A significant difference was noted in ratings of expected characteristics, but not in performance ratings, suggesting that the biased psychological report influenced one type of rating but not the other. Furthermore, the two dependent variables were not significantly correlated.
Barriers and Facilitators to Integrating SWPBIS in Alternative Education Settings With Existing Behavior Management Systems

Alternative education (AE) settings such as residential and juvenile justice facilities and self-contained schools are complex settings for students with unique academic and behavioral needs. The schoolwide positive behavioral interventions and support (SWPBIS) model has proven utility in traditional schools, but little research exists to inform SWPBIS implementation in AE settings. To address this research gap, the researchers conducted two separate focus groups with similar AE settings regarding their integration of SWPBIS with an existing behavior management system. Resulting themes between and within groups are presented in terms of systems, data, and practice. The two settings discussed similar challenges, although their responses to these challenges were in stark contrast, as were the resulting success of SWPBIS integration. Limitations and future directions for researchers are described in addition to specific policy implications.
Ab initio molecular-replacement phasing for symmetric helical membrane proteins

Obtaining phases for X-ray diffraction data can be a rate-limiting step in structure determination. Taking advantage of constraints specific to membrane proteins, an ab initio molecular-replacement method has been developed for phasing X-ray diffraction data for symmetric helical membrane proteins without prior knowledge of their structure or heavy-atom derivatives. The described method is based on generating all possible orientations of idealized transmembrane helices and using each model in a molecular-replacement search. The number of models is significantly reduced by taking advantage of geometrical and structural restraints specific to membrane proteins. The top molecular-replacement results are evaluated based on noncrystallographic symmetry (NCS) map correlation, OMIT map correlation and Rfree value after refinement of a polyalanine model. The feasibility of this approach is illustrated by phasing the mechanosensitive channel of large conductance (MscL) with only 4 A diffraction data. No prior structural knowledge was used other than the number of transmembrane helices. The search produced the correct spatial organization and the position in the asymmetric unit of all transmembrane helices of MscL. The resulting electron-density maps were of sufficient quality to automatically build all helical segments of MscL including the cytoplasmic domain. The method does not require high-resolution diffraction data and can be used to obtain phases for symmetrical helical membrane proteins with one or two helices per monomer.
Technology forecasters-soothsayers or scientists?

The techniques and pitfalls of trend extrapolation are examined by scrutinizing two elementary mathematical approaches that now enjoy acceptance in modeling innovation and projecting the growth of new sciences and technologies. The first of these approaches is continued exponential growth. The second approach is logistic growth, or growth that conforms to the 'S-shaped' curve that traces the startup, midlife, and maturing of a technology. An introduction to each model is given, with examples that show how the models are used and sometimes misused. Thoughts from prominent futurists and philosophers of the credibility and intellectual legitimacy of forecasts are presented. It is concluded that the fundamental issues center on the correct use of inductive reasoning. >
Algorithmic generation of freely jointed hard sphere chains and properties of their inertial tensors.

A statistical algorithm, capable of generating a large number of freely jointed hard sphere chains, is presented. This is the first of a series of algorithms being developed to model unfolded proteins by different modes of hard sphere chains. The aim of these studies is to systematically investigate the effects of different factors, such as atomic radii, bond angles, torsion angles, chain length, etc., on the conformation of unfolded proteins and other random polymers. As continuous models, various types of hard sphere chains enable one to isolate the aforementioned factors one at a time for investigation and thus are advantageous over discrete lattice models. In particular, the freely jointed hard sphere chain model allows one to evaluate the excluded volume effect. As a first step in this endeavor, the average determinant D(N, r) and the average trace T(N, r) of the inertial tensor A of the random chains were calculated at various sphere radii r and chain lengths N. It is found that both the average determinant D(N, r) and the average trace T(N, r) scale linearly with chain length N after logarithmic transformation. However, the critical exponent of D(N, r) increases with r faster than that of T(N, r) as a result of the non-commutativity between the det operator and the average operator . The significance of the algorithm and the results obtained on understanding random polypeptide chains are discussed.
Sea-level control of mixed-carbonate-siliciclastic, gravity-flow deposition: Lower part of the Keeler Canyon Formation (Pennsylvanian), southeastern California

Depositional cycles present in a mixed carbonate and quartz gravity-flow sequence exposed in the Death Valley-Owens Valley of southeastern California may record the response of this system to third-order (∼0.7-1.4 m.y.) sea-level changes during Late Pennsylvanian time. Time-equivalent outer-shelf and basin-margin deposits elucidate the following key elements of this depositional system: (1) a distally steepened ramp profile, (2) an unchanneled basin-margin sequence which accumulated as a line-sourced apron system, and (3) penecontemporaneous deposition of carbonate and fine-grained quartz sediment in both the shallow- and deep-water regimes. Basin-margin facies consist of mudstones, turbidites, debris flows, and megabreccias organized into thickening- and coarsening-upward packages. Lime mudstone intervals (3-7 m thick) alternate with mixed-carbonate-siliciclastic, gravity-flow intervals (10-30 m thick). Time-equivalent outer-ramp facies show a similar organization of alternating silty, bioclastic wackestones/grainstones (10-40 m thick) containing a diverse open-marine fauna and rhythmically bedded lime mudstone (15-60 m thick) which is barren of fauna. An upward increase in debris flows and megabreccias within basin-margin cycles indicates the involvement of large-scale ramp processes and cannot be explained by simple progradation and abandonment of depositional lobes. The absence of megabreccia caps on many of the cycles argues against autocyclic progradation and collapse of the platform, although larger scale coarsening- and thickening-upward trends within the basin-margin succession are attributed to autocyclic processes. Instead, we propose that cycles develop in both the shallow- and deep-water regimes by changes in relative sea level. Drowning of the outer shelf during relative highstands (rhythmically bedded lime mud stone) would yield starved-basin deposits (lime mudstone). As sea level falls, both carbonates and siliciclastics prograde closer to the shelf edge (silty, bioclastic wackestones/grainstones), thus activating the mass-transport system (mixed-clastic, gravity-flow packages). Increased storm and wave influence on the outer ramp/upper slope triggers debris flows and occasional large-scale collapses, producing megabreccias. Most models of turbidite deposition have stressed reciprocal sedimentation with sea-level change: bioclastic turbidites during highstands and silicilclastic turbidites during lowstands. Instead, our model for mixed-clastic deposition emphasizes the importance of the build-up profile, the position of sea level relative to the shelf margin, and the rate of change of sea level.
Recognition of binding sites I and II by the TrpI activator protein of pseudomonas aeruginosa: efficient binding to both sites requires InGP even when site II is replaced by site I.

Abstract TrpI protein, the activator of transcription of the trpBA operon of three species of fluorescent Pseudomonads, bends the DNA when it forms either of two well-characterized complexes with the trpBA regulatory region. In complex 1, TrpI is bound only to its strong binding site (site I), whereas in complex 2, which is required for activation of the trpBA promoter, TrpI is bound both to site I and to the weaker site II. Indoleglycerol phosphate (InGP) strongly stimulates formation of complex 2 and is required for activation. The present study focuses on the binding of TrpI to DNA containing a duplication of site I and the effect of the duplication on TrpI-induced DNA bending. We find that even on DNA containing a tandem (direct or inverted) duplication of site I, the formation of DNA–TrpI complexes with both sites occupied is strongly stimulated by InGP. Thus, even when TrpI binding to two adjacent sites needs not be cooperative, InGP significantly promotes the formation of complex 2. Gel binding data indicate that InGP can have several effects: (1) TrpI molecules bound to either of two adjacent strong binding sites appear to interfere with binding to the other site; InGP relieves this apparent interference. (2) InGP increases the intrinsic affinity of TrpI for sites I and II and/or enhances cooperative TrpI binding to adjacent DNA sites. Furthermore, a third molecule of TrpI can form a footprint adjacent to the duplication on DNA containing a direct (but not inverted) repeat of site I, indicating that TrpI bound to site I is oriented asymmetrically in spite of the quasi-symmetry of the binding site. The calculated bending angle for DNA in complex 2 is increased by approximately 20° when site I is substituted in either orientation for site II; thus, on DNA containing a site I duplication, the bending angle of complex 2 is nearly twice that of complex 1.
A new eigenvalue bound for reversible Markov chains with applications to the temperature-asymptotics of simulated annealing

A novel upper bound is presented for the second largest eigenvalue of a finite reversible time-homogeneous Markov chain as a function of three parameters, namely the smallest transition probability, the underlying structure of the chain, and the skewness of the equilibrium distribution. Simulated annealing (SA) is an example of a probabilistic algorithm that is widely used for solving combinatorial optimization problems, wherein the transition probabilities are controlled by a certain temperature parameter T>0. Using the results presented, it is possible to bound the time constant of convergence of SA to equilibrium at any fixed temperature T>0, and also to study the temperature asymptotics, namely the growth of this bound as T to 0. >
A capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (CMUT) array as a low-power multi-channel volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor

In this study we extend our work on low-power CMUT chemical sensors from a single element to an array as a way to improve selectivity to volatile organic compound (VOC) analytes. A single channel of our sensor array comprises of a polymer-functionalized CMUT resonator in the feedback loop of a Colpitts oscillator, which consumes 0.76 mW, when operated continuously. Using our anodic-bonding based fabrication process, we fabricated 6-, 8-, and 15-channel prototype arrays with a standard deviation of 1 % in the parallel resonant frequency (4.5 MHz) in a 7×9-mm2 die area. We measured the response of three channels, one uncoated, one with a polyisobutylene (PIB) layer, and one with a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) layer, to 20-ppm toluene vapor. Initial measurements show 1:13:37 ratio in the response of reference: PVA:PIB channels.
Canonical Pricing of CBOT Bond Futures Options

Canonical valuation uses the historical time series of CBOT bond futures prices to estimate the probability distribution of the bond futures price on the expiration date. Then, these probabilities are entropically transformed into canonical risk neutral probabilities used to estimate risk neutral (equivalent martingale) probabilities, that make the expected bond futures price equal to the current futures price. The value of a futures option is then estimated by computing the (risklessly) discounted, risk neutral expected value of the option payoff at expiration. For a fixed degree of moneyness (i.e. the ratio of exercise price to the current bond futures price), the resulting canonical values are generally higher when the current futures price is lower, i.e. in regimes of higher long term interest rates. The canonical model thus predicts that volatilities implied by the popular Black model will depend on the degree of moneyness, i.e. there will be a skewed curve of implied volatilities, and that this skew will depend on the current bond futures price. As a test of its out-of-sample pricing performance, both canonical and Black model values are compared to actual futures option prices during the last half of 1996. Upon calibrating both models only with historical futures price data, we found that while both models worked reasonably well in pricing options with 1 to 4 months to expiration, the canonical model modestly outperformed the Black model in that range.
Numerical simulation of chlorine disinfection processes

The efficacy of disinfection processes in water purification systems is governed by several key factors including reactor hydraulics, disinfectant chemistry and microbial inactivation kinetics. The objective of this work was to develop a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model to predict flow structure, mass transport and chlorine decay in a continuous flow pilot scale reactor. These predictions were compared with experimental measurements for model validation. The current research demonstrates that inlet configurations can significantly impact reactor hydrodynamics.
The emotional impact of a malpractice suit on physicians: Maintaining resilience

Resilient people can face reality, see a better future, put things into perspective, and bounce back from adversity.
The Jazz Community

T HE literature on jazz, which has grown enormously in recent years, consists in the main of biographies of jazz musicians, record reviews, and analysis of the music itself. Relatively little attention has been devoted to the study of social groups in jazz and, with some exceptions, what literature exists is primarily descriptive and widely scattered. It is our intention in this paper to present a factual description of what we shall call the jazz community. The available literature, as well as our own empirical observation, suggests that this is organized along well-developed lines which reveal specific behavioral patterns. We are dealing, then, with a number of people who share an occupational ideology and participate in a set of expected behaviors. We use the term community here not to denote a group with a geographic locus, but in the sense of a community of interest; what is implied by the word is that the people described here share a set of norms which in turn define roles for them.
5-Year Experience with Intravesical Therapy of Carcinoma in Situ: An Inquiry Into the Risks of “Conservative” Management

AbstractRecent reports of disease progression in patients being treated with intravesical agents for carcinoma in situ of the bladder led us to examine our 5-year experience with 26 consecutive patients with carcinoma in situ treated with intravesical therapy for this lesion. Nine patients with isolated carcinoma in situ and 17 with carcinoma in situ associated with papillary lesions were treated intravesically with a variety of agents in a closely monitored program for a mean of 22 months. All patients wished to exhaust conservative options before accepting cystectomy. Of 26 patients treated 9 (35 per cent) have no evidence of disease with a functional bladder after 27 months, 13 (50 per cent) are treatment failures and 4 (15 per cent) maintain an equivocal status to date. Successful treatment results with each drug were 6 of 24 thiotepa, 0 of 7 mitomycin, 0 of 6 doxorubicin and 3 of 8 bacillus Calmette-Guerin. Treatment failure was associated with disease progression to muscle invasion, adjacent organ i...