cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toric Structures on the Moduli Space of Flat Connections on a Riemann Surface: Volumes and the Moment Map

Abstract In earlier papers we constructed a Hamiltonian torus action on an open dense set in the moduli space of flat SU (2) connections on a compact Riemann surface, where the dimension of the torus is half the dimension of the moduli space. This torus action shows that this set can be viewed symplectically as a (noncompact) toric variety. The number of integral points of the moment map for the torus action turns out to be identical to the Verlinde dimension D ( g, k ). As an application, we furnish a new proof of the relation between the large- k limit of D( g, k ) and the volume of the moduli space. From our point of view, this relation follows from the equality between the symplectic volume of a toric variety and the Euclidean volume of the image of the moment map. Similar considerations are shown to give rise to the volumes of moduli spaces of parabolic bundles on a Riemann surface. Knowledge of these volumes has been shown to allow a proof of the Verlinde formula for the dimension of the space of holomorphic sections of line bundles on this space.
The effects of UV laser irradiation on the filament-assisted deposition of diamond

The effects of 193 and 308 nm excimer laser radiation on the filament-assisted chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of diamond were investigated, in attempts to reproduce and quantify the reported mechanism of laser-enhanced diamond deposition. The deposited materials were analyzed using optical microscopy, SEM, scanning Auger microprobe, and micro-Raman scattering. With fluence levels of >50 mJ · cm−2, UV laser irradiation was found to suppress rather than enhance the quantity of diamond deposition. The size, morphology, and Raman spectra of crystallites in the irradiated regions were nearly identical to those in adjacent unirradiated regions of the same sample. An additional laser-induced effect was a region of enhanced etching on the Si substrate, which appeared as a “shadowing” of the diamond crystallites. The results are interpreted in terms of a laser-induced depletion of diamond nucleation sites, and suggest a new method for patterning of CVD films.
Modeling the accumulation of wind-driven snow

This technical sketch presents a method for modeling the appearance of snow drifts formed by the accumulation of wind-blown snow near buildings and other obstacles. Our method combines previous work on snow accumulation [Fearing] with techniques for incompressible fluid flows [Fedkiw et al.]. By computing the three-dimensional flow of air in the volume around the obstacles our method is able to model how the snow is convected, deposited, and lifted by the wind. The results demonstrate realistic snow accumulation patterns with deep windward and leeward drifts, furrows, and low accumulation in wind shadowed areas. (See figure.)
Random strains and the structure of (Kbr)1-x(KCN)x mixed crystals.

Constant-pressure molecular dynamics has been used to study the effect of random strains on the low-temperature structure of ${(\mathrm{KBr})}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{(\mathrm{KCN})}_{x}$ mixed crystals with $x\ensuremath{\approx}0.75$. In accord with experiment, systems with a random arrangement of ${\mathrm{Br}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ ions transform on cooling from a cubic phase to either a rhombohedral or a monoclinic structure. For an ordered ${A}_{3}B$ anion sublattice, however, the ground-state structure is similar to that of pure KCN, namely orthorhombic. It is concluded that strain-rotation coupling plays a critical role in the destabilization of the orthorhombic phase.
Generation of defective interfering particles of vesicular stomatitis virus in Aedes albopictus cells

Abstract The serial undiluted passage of clonally purified vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) in Aedes albopictus cells resulted in a rapidly declining titer of infectious virus. VSVAP2 (a stock derived after two such passages) contained slowly sedimenting truncated (T) particles which were interfering and noninfectious. Whereas a VSV stock produced by three undiluted passages in BHK cells (VSVBP3) interfered with the replication of standard virus (VSVSTD) equally well in A. albopictus and in BHK cells, VSVAP2 interfered efficiently only in the former. These patterns of interference were also observed when gradient purified T particles were tested. When VSVAP2 or VSVBP3 was passaged once in the heterologous cell type the pattern of interference was reversed showing that these defective interfering (DI) particles could be phenotypically modified in such a way as to influence their specificity of interference with VSVSTD. When viral RNA synthesis was studied in cells coinfected with VSVSTD and VSVAP2 or VSVBP3, the following observations were made: (1) interference was correlated with a decrease in the synthesis of 42 S VSVSTD genome RNA; (2) although VSVAP2 DI particles interfered well in A. albopictus cells but only poorly in BHK cells the DI RNA genomes of VSVAP2 were replicated equally well in both cell types. (3) The major DI particles in VSVAP2 contained “snap-back” RNA composed of covalently linked sequences of positive and negative polarity. By testing the effect of RNase on these RNAs it was concluded that they contained from 90 to 95% selfcomplementary sequences. Snap-back RNA was not readily detectable in the DI particles of VSVBP3.
Effects of ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin on zoxazolamine kinetics, plasma concentration and sleeping times in mice

Abstract The treatment of CDI male mice with either ciprofloxacin (CP) or enrofloxacin (EF) prior to zoxazolamine (ZX) administration increased the mean ZX sleeping times to, respectively, 162 and 156% of the control (ZX alone). At the end of the sleeping time, the mean ZX plasma concentration in controls was 27.2 μg/ml and was not different in EF- or CP-treated groups (87% and 95% of controls, respectively). The animals coadministered with CP or EF and ZX eliminated the latter more slowly than the controls. The estimated zero-time drug concentration of the disposition curves of both the CP- and EF-treated groups as well as the apparent half-life of elimination and apparent overall rate of elimination of the CP-treated group were different from the control values.
Carnitine deficiency in surgical neonates receiving total parenteral nutrition

Abstract Carnitine plays a key role in the oxidation of fatty acids. Most solutions for parenteral nutrition do not contain carnitine. Because endogeneous carnitine synthesis is insufficient in newborns, they are prone to developing a carnitine deficiency when they are dependent on total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Stimulated by the clinical observation of manifest clinical symptoms of carnitine deficiency in one patient, a study of 13 consecutive neonates who received TPN for over 2 weeks was begun. Their plasma carnitine levels before and during carnitine supplementation were determined. All patients had a carnitine intake far below the recommended minimal need of 11 μmol/kg per day. Although only three of them clearly showed clinical symptoms described as carnitine deficiency, carnitine supplementation for all neonates receiving TPN for over 2 weeks is recommended.
Cellular Antioxidant Properties of Human Natural Killer Enhancing Factor B

The protein, NKEF (natural killer enhancing factor), has been identified as a member of an antioxidant family of proteins capable of protecting against protein oxidation in cell-free assay systems. The mechanism of action for this family of proteins appears to involve scavenging or suppressing formation of protein thiyl radicals. In the present study we investigated the antioxidant protective properties of the NKEF-B protein overexpressed in an endothelial cell line (ECV304). Nkef-B-transfected cells displayed significantly lower levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared with control or vector-transfected cells. Tert-Butylhydroperoxide-induced ROS was 15% lower in nkef-8–transfected cells and cytotoxicity was slightly, though not significantly, lower. NKEF-B had no effect on ROS induced by menadione or xanthine plus xanthine oxidase. NKEF-B overexpression resulted in slightly (≈ 10%) lower levels of cellular glutathione (GSH) and had no effect on rate or extent of GSH depletion following either die...
Radial liquid distribution in cocurrent two-phase downflow in packed beds

Radial liquid distribution was measured experimentally for cocurrent, two-phase downflow in packed beds. The effects of bed length, water and air flow rates, and type of packing were determined. The experimental data were obtained in the gas-continuous, transition and pulsing trickling-flow regimes. For all finite air rates, the liquid velocity profiles were approximately flat with the maximum average velocity occurring at the center of the packed column. Increasing the air rate increased the center liquid velocity. The gas rate effect was more pronounced in shorter beds. At higher gas rates the liquid rate had less effect on the radial liquid distribution than at lower gas rates. Operation at higher liquid rates resulted in a flatter radial liquid veilocity profile. It was observed that the bed of pellets operated at high liquid rate and low gas rate was unstable. Increasing the bed height increased the stability of the system and a better liquid distribution was obtained. The effects of water flow rate, bed length, and packing type on the shape of the liquid velocity profiles were minor. On a mesure experimentalement la distribution radiale d'un liquide, dans le cas d'un ecoulement descendant a deux phases concourantes dans des lits garnis. On a determine les effets de la longueur du lit, des taux d'ecoulement de l'eau et de l'air, et du type de garnissage. On a obtenu les resultats experimentaux dans le cas des systemes d'ecoulement de transition, a continuite gazeuse et a faible debit avec impulsions. Dans le cas de tous les taux finis d'air, les profits de vitesse du liquide ont ete a peu pres uniformes et la vitesse maximale et moyenne s'est produite au centre de la colonne garnie; l'accroissement du taux d'air a cree une augmentation de la vitesse du liquide au centre precite. L'effet du taux du gaz a ete plus prononce dans les lits plus courts et, a des taux de gaz eleves, le taux du liquide a eu moins d'influence sur la distribution radiale de celui-ci que lorsque ces taux etaient faibles. On a obtenu un profil plus uniforme de la vitesse radiale du liquide lorsque les taux de celui-ci etaient plus eleves. On a observe que le lit des pastilles etait instable lorsque le taux du liquide etait eleve et celui du gaz faible. L'accroissement de la hauteur du lit a ameliore la stabilite du systeme et assure une meilleure distribution du liquide. Les effets produits par le taux d'ecoulement de l'eau, la longueur du lit et le type de garnissage sur l'allure des profils de vitesse du liquide se sont averes peu importants.
Apolipoprotein E Receptor 2 Interactions with the N-Methyl-D-aspartate Receptor

Abstract In our previous studies we showed that apoE treatment of neurons activated ERK 1/2 signaling, and activation was blocked by treatment with inhibitors of the low density lipoprotein receptor family, the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist MK 801, and calcium channel blockers. We hypothesized an interaction between the low density lipoprotein receptor family members and the NMDA receptor. In the present study, we confirmed through co-immunoprecipitation experiments an interaction between the apoE receptor, ApoEr2, and NMDAR1 through their extracellular domains. We also found that the PDZ1 domain of PSD95, a postsynaptic scaffolding protein, interacted with the C terminus of ApoEr2 via an alternatively spliced, intracellular exon. This interaction between ApoEr2 and PSD95 in neurons was modulated by NMDA receptor activation and an ApoEr2 ligand. We also found that the PDZ2 domain of PSD95 interacted with the NR2A and NR2B subunits of NMDA receptors. Full-length PSD95 increased cell surface levels of ApoEr2 and its cleavage, resulting in increases in secreted ApoEr2 and C-terminal fragments of ApoEr2. These studies suggest that ApoEr2 can form a multiprotein complex with NMDA receptor subunits and PSD95.
Adoption of E-Book Readers Among College Students: A Survey

To learn whether e-book readers have become widely popular among college students, this study surveys students at one large, urban, four-year public college. The survey asked whether the students owned e-book readers and if so, how often they used them and for what purposes. Thus far, uptake is slow; a very small proportion of students use e-readers. These students use them primarily for leisure reading and continue to rely on print for much of their reading. Students reported that price is the greatest barrier to e-reader adoption and had little interest in borrowing e-reader compatible e-books from the library.
Association of a polynuclear iron-sulfur center with a mutant FNR protein enhances DNA binding.

Abstract In the facultative anaerobe Escherichia coli, the transcription factor FNR (fumarate nitrate reduction) regulates gene expression in response to oxygen deprivation. To investigate how the activity of FNR is regulated by oxygen availability, two mutant proteins, DA154 and LH28-DA154, which have enhanced in vivo activity in the presence of oxygen, were purified and compared. Unlike other previously examined FNR preparations, the absorption spectrum of LH28-DA154 had two maxima at 324 nm and 419 nm, typical of iron-sulfur (Fe-S)-containing proteins. Consistent with these data, metal analysis showed that only the LH28-DA154 protein contained a significant amount of iron and acid-labile sulfide, and, by low temperature EPR spectroscopy, a signal typical of a [3Fe-4S]+ cluster was detected. The LH28-DA154 protein that contained the Fe-S cluster also contained a higher proportion of dimers and had a 3- to 4-fold higher apparent affinity for the target DNA than the DA154 protein. In agreement with this, we found that when the LH28-DA154 protein was treated with an iron chelator (alpha,alpha'-dipyridyl), it lost its characteristic absorption and the apparent affinity for DNA was reduced 6-fold. However, increased DNA binding and the characteristic absorption spectrum could be restored by in vitro reconstitution of the Fe-S center. DNA binding of the LH28-DA154 protein was also affected by the redox state of the Fe-S center, since protein exposed to oxygen bound 1/10th as much DNA as the protein reduced anaerobically with dithionite. The observation that DNA binding is enhanced when the Fe-S center is reduced indicates that the redox state of the Fe-S center affects the DNA-binding activity of this protein and suggests a possible mechanism for regulation of the wild-type protein.
The outer plexiform layer of the rabbit retina, an important data processing center.

Abstract Thecircuitryof a part of theouter plexiform layerof therabbit retinawas analyzed by means of a three-dimensional reconstruction based on electron micrographs of serial sections. The circuitry is interpreted to involve the basis forneural adaptation, edge detecting, anddirectional selectivity responses. The study furthermore revealed a complex, compact circuitry associated with the photoreceptor cells which makes it justifiable to ascribe to the outer plexiform layer a major role in the data processing of the retina.
Factors related to the growth of psittacosis virus (strain 6BC). I. Pteroylglutamic acid, vitamin B12, and citrovorum factor.

The inhibitory action of sodium sulfadiazine on the growth of psittacosis virus (6BC) in embryonated eggs is readily reversed by citrovorum factor but not by small amounts of vitamin B12. In embryonated eggs, the pteroylglutamic acid analogues, 9-methylpteroylglutamic acid and 4-aminopteroylaspartic acid, produced some suppression of the growth of psittacosis virus (6BC). 4-Aminopteroylglutamic add, 4-amino- N 10-methylpteroylglutamic acid, and 4-aminopteroylaspartic acid inhibited the growth of this virus in tissue cultures at concentrations which were not toxic for the host tissue. The inhibitory action of 4-amino- N 10-methylpteroylglutamic acid and 4-aminopteroylaspartic acid was readily overcome by addition of citrovorum factor. Growth of meningopneumonitis virus in embryonated eggs or tissue culture is suppressed by 4-aminopteroylaspartic acid. The advantages of the tissue culture technic for studies on the growth of viruses are discussed.
Nitric oxide formation and reburn in low-pressure methane flames

Absolute NO concentrations are measured in low-pressure methane-oxygen-nitrogen flames of varying stoichiometry, using laser-induced fluorescence. These measurements are combined with previously measured absolute CH radical concentrations to test the chemical mechanism of prompt NO formation and NO reburn. The GRI-Mech 2.11 chemical mechanism underpredicts prompt NO by 35–60%. Increasing the rate coefficient for the CH+N 2 reaction brings the predicted [NO] into agreement with the measurements. Reburn chemistry is studied by seeding NO at concentrations between 0.1% and 3% in rich and lean flames. The model agrees with the observed reduction of NO in a fuel-lean (=0.80) flame and underpredicts NO reburn in a fuel-rich (=1.27) flame. The model predicts significantly more reduction of the peak CH concentration by reburn of seeded NO in the rich flame than is measured.
Role of Neuroimaging in Analgesic Drug Development

Rapidly developing, non-invasive, neuroimaging methods provide increasingly detailed structural and functional information about the nervous system, helping advance our understanding of pain processing, chronic pain conditions and the mechanisms of analgesia. However, effective treatment for many chronic pain conditions remains a large, unmet medical need. Neuroimaging techniques may enhance our understanding of why currently available analgesics are ineffective for so many patients and aid in identifying new neural targets for pharmacological interventions of pain. This review examines how neuroimaging has enhanced our understanding of the mechanisms of chronic pain, the neural correlates of pharmacological modulation of pain, and the role of neuroimaging in analgesic development. Rather than focusing on one method, we discuss the advantages and limitations of several techniques that may each serve a unique role in aiding drug development, and we discuss current issues that exist in the design and implementation of pharmacological neuroimaging studies. Particularly, experimental design must be carefully considered as there are limitations in terms of the pharmacokinetics of the drug of interest as well as in respect to the capabilities of the neuroimaging method in use. Finally, we identify future directions including novel approaches that may also play a role in furthering our knowledge of the neural basis of analgesia. In the future, neuroimaging will certainly impact the methodology of analgesic drug development as it may lead to quicker and more efficient methods of evaluating the neural modulation of chronic pain.
Modeling the seismic P coda as the response of a discrete-scatterer medium

Abstract The seismic coda can be modeled as a composite of wavelets scattered from spherical heterogeneities embedded in an elastic medium. The exact scattering response of a spherical heterogeneity is calculated for elastic waves using Mie theory. To generate synthetic codas, a P source wavelet is defined for propagation along the ray paths from the hypocenter to the receiver via each scatterer in the model. Only singly scattered waves are computed. Along the path, the wavelet is adjusted for geometric spreading, intrinsic attenuation, scattering response, the free-surface effect, and instrument response. The source-scatterer -receiver path length is used to determine the appropriate time-shift for the scattered wavelet. Scattered wavelets are obtained individually by calculating the response and lapse time corresponding to each scatterer in the medium. This is done independently for scattered P-P and P-S waves. The individual wavelets are then time-shifted and superimposed to obtain the complete coda. Synthetic codas were able to match the emergent P-wave codas from surface explosions in Alabama and the impulsive P-wave arrivals from earthquakes in southeastern Tennessee.
Laser cooling of positronium

Abstract We report analytic and numerical simulation results on laser cooling of positronium. The minimum temperatures achievable and the cooling time required to reach such temperatures are obtained. Our results suggest that the critical temperature for the Bose-Eistein condensation of positronium is reachable within the ortho-Ps lifetime using a negatively detuned 243 nm laser driving the 1s-2p transition, for Ps densities as low as 1015 cm-3. We also consider the implications of a Doppler-free annihilation line of para-positronium for the stimulated amplification of gamma rays.
An empirical analysis on the substitutability between private consumption and government purchases

Abstract This paper estimates substitutability of government purchases for private consumption using an optimal consumption model. The utility function features several types of nonseparabilities. The paper finds that GMM estimates are affected by the specification of nonseparability between private consumption and government purchases, by the restriction of time-separability, and by the measurement of real interest rates.
Proton electromagnetic form factors in the instanton liquid model

We report the first nonperturbative calculation of proton electromagnetic form factors in the random instanton liquid model and in the interacting instanton liquid model. By calculating the ratio of appropriate three-point to two-point functions, we divide out the coupling constants and compare our results directly to some integral of the form factors. Using various parametrizations of the electric form factor ${G}_{E}{(Q}^{2})$ at large ${Q}^{2}g3.5{\mathrm{GeV}}^{2},$ where it is not yet measured, we compare those with expected theoretical dependence. We find from this comparison that some distributions of charge are clearly excluded (e.g., the same as of the magnetic moment, $\ensuremath{\mu}{G}_{E}{/G}_{M}=1,$ as well as the opposite scenario in which $\ensuremath{\mu}{G}_{E}{/G}_{M}$ rapidly approach zero), restricting possible behavior of the form factor to a rather narrow band. Furthermore, we found that our calculation of the nucleon form factors is dominated by a configuration in which two out of three quarks interact with a single instanton, in spite of the fact that the evaluated three-point function has rather large distances $(\ensuremath{\sim}1.2\mathrm{fm})$ between points. We also estimate the size of the scalar diquark and found it to be very small, comparable to the typical instanton size.
On the motion of inertial particles by sound waves

This paper describes the numerical simulation of the motion of a heavy spherical particle in an acoustic wave using the equation of motion for a point particle. Our results agree well with the recent experimental data of Gonzalez, Hoffmann, and Gallego [“Precise measurements of particle entrainment in a standing-wave acoustic field between 20 and 3500 Hz,” J. Aerosol Sci. 31, 1461–1468 (2000)]. Our simulations cover a range of particle relaxation number, τ* = ωτ, where τ is the particle relaxation time and ω is the angular acoustic frequency from 0.06 to 10, particle to fluid density ratios, ρp/ρf, from 2500 to 2, and moderate acoustic velocity amplitudes. The results show that the Stokes force controls particle motion for τ* 25. Within this regime it is appropriate to consider the Basset, pressure gradient, and virtual mass forces as “higher order” corrections to the Stokes force. The magnitude of the Basset force exceeds that of the Stokes force for ρp/ρf ⩾ 25 and τ* ⩾ 4. All the forces ...
Correlations of Masculinity and Femininity to Sensation Seeking

The Bem Sex-role Inventory and the Sensation Seeking Scale were completed by 129 female and 159 male undergraduates for whom it was hypothesized that masculinity would be directly associated with sensation seeking, while femininity would be inversely associated with sensation seeking. As hypothesized, for both males and females, masculinity was significantly and directly associated with sensation seeking, but magnitudes of correlations were small. For males only, femininity was significantly and inversely associated with sensation seeking. Further investigation of relationships between masculinity and femininity with each of the four sensation-seeking subscales was conducted.
DNA UVB dosimeters

DNA can be used to establish and monitor solar UVB dose. Since the principal molecular site of UVB damage in living organisms is DNA, it is logical to quantitate biologically effective solar UVB in DNA dosimeters. In addition to their particular sensitivity to UVB, DNA dosimeters have the advantage of a 2 pi geometry for collecting diffuse UVB radiation from all vectors, low cost, small size and portability, and no moving parts. Both molecular (cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers) and biological (bacteriophage plaques) dosimeters can be quantitated as endpoints to yield the total dose. DNA dosimeters integrate the absorbed energy of all UVB wavelengths (290-320 nm), are highly sensitive to the differential biological effectiveness of these wavelengths, and also integrate over time in hours, days or weeks of exposure. Our experiments have focused on the demonstration of DNA solar dosimeters in the ocean at various depths, the application of the dosimeters to the terrestrial monitoring of solar UVB under various conditions, and the development of a mini-dosimeter which uses nanograms of DNA and is assayed by polymerase chain reaction.
Hypoxia-induced long-term facilitation of respiratory activity is serotonin dependent

Repeated isocapnic hypoxia evokes long-term facilitation (LTF) of phrenic nerve activity in rats. We wished to determine: (1) whether hypoxia-induced LTF is serotonin dependent; and (2) whether hypoxia-induced LTF is a property of upper airway motoneurons. Phrenic and hypoglossal nerve activities were recorded in urethane anesthetized, vagotomized, paralyzed and artificially ventilated rats (n = 7). Rats were exposed to three, 5-min hypoxic episodes (Fio2 = 0.10) separated by 5 min of hyperoxia (Fio2 = 0.50). One hour after the final hypoxic episode, integrated phrenic and hypoglossal amplitudes and burst frequency were increased above control values (63 ± 17%, 78 ± 26% and 9.6 ± 2.1 bursts/min, respectively; p < 0.05). In rats pretreated with methysergide (n = 7; 4 mg/kg), no changes in phrenic or hypoglossal activity from pre-stimulus control values were observed at any time post-stimulation. The results indicate that hypoxia-induced LTF requires 5-HT receptors and is characteristic of both hypoglossal and phrenic motor output.
Physiologically based pharmacokinetic models for anticancer drugs

The rationale and history of the development of physiologically based pharmacokinetic models are briefly reviewed in this paper. The methods of model construction and the previous application of this type of model to anticancer drugs are discussed. Future research should be focused on the following areas: (1) interspecies scaling, (2) the effects of disease states on the pharmacokinetics of anticancer drugs, and (3) the applications of pharmocokinetics to the studies of growth behavior of cancer cells. The ultimate goal will be to utilize this basic information to design an optimal dosage regimen and treatment schedule for the safe and effective cancer chemotherapy of each individual patient.
Trans-atlantic profile of total magnetic intensity and topography, Dakar to Barbados

Abstract The development of the airborne magnetometer makes possible magnetic surveys of ocean areas without specially constructed non-magnetic ships. Early flights over marine areas indicated that a correlation might exist between topographic features and the character of the magnetic field. In order to compare magnetic field characteristics with topography and basement structures as determined by seismic measurements an airborne instrument was incased in a waterproof “fish” and initially towed from the Atlantis in 1948. Until an adequate cable was obtained in 1952 repeated failures of the electrical cable had limited the instrument's use in deep water to one trans-Atlantic profile. Until more measurements are made only cursory interpretation of this profile can be made. There is great similarity of the anomaly curve from 170 nautical miles west of Dakar to Barbados. Anomalies of 50 to over 200 gammas, 5–40 nautical miles wide are encountered from the Cape Verde Island region to Barbados. West of Dakar for 170 miles the magnetic field is smooth with anomalies of less than 25 gammas. The topographic contrast between the deep ocean basins and the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is not reflected in the anomaly curve. Large anomalies observed over the submerged parts of the Cape Verde Islands show the effect of known volcanic islands. No anomaly is observed near Barbados or over the continental margin of Africa.
Control Lie Algebras of Semi-Discretizations of the Schroedinger Equation

We consider control of the one-dimensional Schroedinger equation via a time-dependent rectangular potential. We discretize the equation in the space variable, obtaining a system of ODEs in which the control is bilinear. We find Control Lie Algebras for several cases, including single point and full width potentials. We use full discretizations, in space and time, to examine the effect of the number of inputs.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Purification, monoclonal antibody production and structural analyses of human progesterone receptors

Progesterone receptors (PR) from human breast cancer cells have been purified, and used as antigens to generate anti-PR monoclonal antibodies. Immunologic and in situ photoaffinity labeling methods were then used to study receptor structure, and we conclude that native human PR consist of two independent 8S receptors: one 8S subtype contains B-proteins (120,000 kDa) and the other contains A-proteins (94,000 kDa).
Gradient-based optimization of custom circuits using a static-timing formulation

This paper describes a method of optimally sizing digital circuits on a static-timing basis. All paths through the logic are considered simultaneously and no input patterns need be specified by the user. The method is unique in that it is based on gradient-based, nonlinear optimization and can accommodate transistor-level schematics without the need for pre-characterization. It employs efficient time-domain simulation and gradient computation for each channel-connected component. A large-scale, general-purpose, nonlinear optimization package is used to solve the tuning problem. A prototype tuner has been developed that accommodates combinational circuits consisting of parameterized library cells. Numerical results are presented.
The observation and assignment of the lowest multiplicity-forbidden transition in pyrazine

Abstract The T → S luminescence spectra at 77°K in rigid glass solution and the T ← S absorption spectra at 293°K in isopentane solution are reported for pyrazine and 2,5-dimethylpyrazine. The observed blue-shift of approx. 325 cm −1 upon conjugative substitution allows the characterization of the transition as 3 B 2u (n, π ∗ ) − 1 A g . The 0,0-band is observed in the low temperature emission spectrum at 25991 ± 15 cm −1 . The observed singlet-triplet split for the ( n, π ∗ ) state is approx. 5000 cm −1 . The f -number for the transition is calculated from the absorption to be 8–10 × 10 −8 . The observed vibrational progression in the spectrum involves the 609 cm −1 angular distortion frequency of pyrazine, whose occurrence is interpreted to indicate rehybridization of the σ-orbitals of the nitrogen upon n → π ∗ excitation. A discussion of the lowest triplet state of pyridine as a ( π, π ∗ ) state is included.
Observations on the physical and chemical composition of diets for the Angoumois grain moth

Abstract Larvae of the Angoumois grain moth readily established in refined diets moulded into pellets. A bioassay based on larval establishment, weight, and numbers of adults was used to determine the insect's major nutritional requirements. The results showed that test diets containing corn starch (49–64%), glycerol (15–19%), casein (9%), yeast (7·5%), and wheat germ (2·6%) permitted good establishment and normal development. No further improvements were obtained when diets were supplemented with a mineral or vitamin mixture, cholesterol, or ascorbic acid. It was concluded that yeast and wheat germ supplied the insect with adequate amounts of lipids, vitamins, and minerals. However, even the best diets lacked some undetermined growth promoting factor because larvae grew better in a natural product control diet.
Effect of pressure relaxation and membrane backwash on adenovirus removal in a membrane bioreactor.

Pressure relaxation and permeate backwash are two commonly used physical methods for membrane fouling mitigation in membrane bioreactor (MBR) systems. In order to assess the impact of these methods on virus removal by MBRs, experiments were conducted in a bench-scale submerged MBR treating synthetic wastewater. The membranes employed were hollow fibers with the nominal pore size of 0.45 μm. The experimental variables included durations of the filtration (tTMP>0), pressure relaxation (tTMP=0) and backwash (tTMP 0/tTMP=0, longer filtration/relaxation cycles (i.e. larger tTMP+tTMP=0) led to higher transmembrane pressure (TMP) but did not have a significant impact on HAdV removal. A shorter backwash (tTMP<0 = 10 min) at a higher flow rate (Q = 40 mL/min) resulted in more substantial decreases in TMP and HAdV removal than a longer backwash (tTMP<0 = 20 min) at a lower flow rate (Q = 20 mL/min) even though the backwash volume (QtTMP<0) was the same. HAdV removal returned to pre-cleaning levels within 16 h after backwash was applied. Moderate to strong correlations (R(2) = 0.63 to 0.94) were found between TMP and HAdV removal.
Kinase Activation through Dimerization by Human SH2-B

The isoforms of SH2-B, APS, and Lnk form a family of signaling proteins that have been described as activators, mediators, or inhibitors of cytokine and growth factor signaling. We now show that the three alternatively spliced isoforms of human SH2-B readily homodimerize in yeast two-hybrid and cellular transfections assays, and this is mediated specifically by a unique domain in its amino terminus. Consistent with previous reports, we further show that the SH2 domains of SH2-B and APS bind JAK2 at Tyr813. These findings suggested a model in which two molecules of SH2-B or APS homodimerize with their SH2 domains bound to two JAK2 molecules, creating heterotetrameric JAK2-(SH2-B)2-JAK2 or JAK2-(APS)2-JAK2 complexes. We further show that APS and SH2-B isoforms heterodimerize. At lower levels of SH2-B or APS expression, dimerization approximates two JAK2 molecules to induce transactivation. At higher relative concentrations of SH2-B or APS, kinase activation is blocked. SH2-B or APS homodimerization and SH2-B/APS heterodimerization thus provide direct mechanisms for activating and inhibiting JAK2 and other kinases from the inside of the cell and for potentiating or attenuating cytokine and growth factor receptor signaling when ligands are present.
Neural activity during emotion recognition after combined cognitive plus social cognitive training in schizophrenia

article Cognitive remediation training has been shown to improve both cognitive and social cognitive deficits in peo- ple with schizophrenia, but the mechanisms that support this behavioral improvement are largely unknown. One hypothesis is that intensive behavioral training in cognition and/or social cognition restores the under- lying neural mechanisms that support targeted skills. However, there is little research on the neural effects of cognitive remediation training. This study investigated whether a 50 h (10-week) remediation intervention which included both cognitive and social cognitive training would influence neural function in regions that sup- port social cognition. Twenty-two stable, outpatient schizophrenia participants were randomized to a treatment condition consisting of auditory-based cognitive training (AT)(BrainFitness Program/auditory module ~60min/ day)plussocialcognitiontraining(SCT)whichwasfocusedonemotionrecognition(~5-15minperday)orapla- cebo condition of non-specific computer games (CG) for an equal amount of time. Pre and post intervention as- sessments included an fMRI task of positive and negative facial emotion recognition, and standard behavioral assessments of cognition, emotion processing, and functional outcome. There were no significant intervention- related improvements in general cognition or functional outcome. fMRI results showed the predicted group- by-time interaction. Specifically, in comparison to CG, AT+SCT participants had a greater pre-to-post intervention increase in postcentral gyrus activity during emotion recognition of both positive and negative emotions. Further- more, among all participants, the increase in postcentral gyrus activity predicted behavioral improvement on a standardized test of emotion processing (MSCEIT: Perceiving Emotions). Results indicate that combined cognition and social cognition training impacts neural mechanisms that support social cognition skills.
Many-Electron Multiplet Theory Applied to O-Vacancies in (i) Nanocrystalline HfO2 and (ii) Non-crystalline SiO2 and Si Oxynitride Alloys

Performance and reliability in semiconductor devices are limited by electronically active defects, primarily O-atom vacancies. Synchrotron X-ray spectroscopy results, interpreted in the context of multiplet theories, have been used to analyze conduction band edge, and O-vacancy defect states in nanocrystalline transition metal oxides such as HfO2, and the non-crystalline oxides including SiO2, and Si3N4 and Si oxynitride alloys. Multiplet theory provides the theoretical foundation for an equivalentd 2 model for O-vacancy transitions and negative ion states as detected by X-ray absorption spectroscopy in the O K pre-edge regime. Comparisons between theory and experiment have relied on Tanabe-Sugano energy level diagrams for identifying the symmetries and multiplicities of transition energies for an equivalent d2 ground state occupancy. The equivalent d2 model has been applied to nanocrystalline thin films of ZrO2,HfO2,TiO2 and Lu2O3 and provides excellent agreement with X-ray absorption spectroscopy data. The model has also been applied to SiO2 and other Si based dielectrics where very good agreement with multiplet theory has also been demonstrated. The spectra indicate both triplet and singlet final states indicating that the two electrons in the vacancy sites have singlet and triplet ground states that are within a few tenths of an eV of each other. For the transition metal oxides, this is explained by relatively small distortions in the vacancy geometry in which the separation between the respective transition metal atoms is 1.6 times the bond-length in an ideal tetrahedral geometry, or the same factor for two fold coordination in O-atom bonding sites in SiO2 andGeO2. These distortions minimize the exchange energy in triplet spin states, and reduce the radial wave function overlap in singlet spin states.
Nitrous oxide reductase (nosZ) gene-specific PCR primers for detection of denitrifiers and three nosZ genes from marine sediments

Two PCR primer sets for the nitrous oxide reductase gene (nosZ) were developed. The initial primers were based on three sequences in GenBank and used to amplify nosZ from continental shelf sediments and from two denitrifiers in culture, Thiosphaera pantotropha and Pseudomonas denitrificans. Three unique marine sediment nosZ genes were identified and sequenced. The marine nosZ genes were most closely related to the nosZ genes of Paracoccus denitrificans or to Rhizobium meliloti. Alignment of all nosZ sequences currently available (n = 10) facilitated redesign of the PCR primers. Three new primer sets which amplify 1100 bp, 900 bp and 250 bp regions of the nosZ gene were designed and tested. The new primers robustly amplified nosZ fragments from samples in which the initial nosZ primers were only marginally successful.
Secure Virtual Backbone-Based Power Management for Ad Hoc Networks

Power saving is a critical issue in wireless ad hoc networks. Many of the existing energy efficient routing protocols utilize the power management feature provided by MAC layer (e.g. IEEE 802.11 PSM). The rationale behind these protocols is to power down (put in sleep) the redundant nodes that do not involve in the packets routing. To keep a low end-to-end latency and preserve the routing fidelity, a group of nodes are selected to constitute a virtual backbone throughout the network. The backbone nodes do not sleep all the time serving for the packets routing while the rest of nodes turn to sleep mode if there is no packet to send or receive. Backbone nodes are periodically selected and replaced; the current selection and replacement mechanism mainly concerns the energy balance and fairness among the network nodes while the security threat is not considered. In this paper, we present that the adversary may launch security attacks against the network by exploiting the vulnerabilities of the backbone node selection algorithm. To address this problem, we propose a biased random selection algorithm to prevent the security attacks. The evaluation results indicate that with the aid of reputation system, the proposed biased random selection scheme is more secure than the random selection scheme while trading for a limited amount of power efficiency.
Estrogen-Progesterone Antagonism with Respect to Specific Marker Protein Synthesis and Growth by the Uterine Endometrium

In that progesterone does not induce uterine peroxidase activity the enzyme was used as a marker to study the relative antagonistic competitive and/or inductive effects of estrogen progesterone and antiestrogen in the rat uterus. When estradiol-17beta diethylstilbestrol (DES) or the estrogen antagonist C1628 were administered luteal phase endometrial cells were transformed into folliclar phase cells capable of synthesizing peroxidase in the presence of progesterone. These same agents were seen to abolish the progesterone block to peroxidase synthesis in immature and spayed rats. It was observed that in the presence of estrogen or estrogen antagonist and progesterone the estrogenic effect on the endometrium is expressed by the synthesis of peroxidase though progesterone inhibits the growth-promoting effects of estrogen on the endometrium. The antiestrogenic effects of progesterone do not result from blocks to 1) uptake of estrogen by target cells 2) estrogen binding to receptor 3) the temperature-dependent transformation of the 4S to the 5S complex and 4) evtry and binding of the active complex to chromatin in target cells. Progesterone however does reduce levels of cytoplasmic estrogne receptors when administered in combination with estrogen. This reduction in estrogen receptors is believed to partially explain the antiestrogenic effects of progesterone.
Modelling and analysis of metal transfer in gas metal arc welding

A numerical model combining the methods of enthalpy, effective-viscosity and volume-of-fluid is developed to simulate the metal transfer process in gas metal arc welding. The model describes not only the influence on droplet profile and transfer frequency of electromagnetic force, surface tension, and gravity, but it can also model the nonisothermal phenomena such as heat transfer and phase change. The model has been used to study the shape of the melting interface on the welding wire, the droplet oscillation at wire tip, the characteristics of relevant physical variables and their roles in metal transfer. We find that the taper formation in spray transfer is closely related to the heat input on the unmelted portion of the welding wire, and the taper formation affects the globular–spray transition by decelerating the transfer process. The formation of satellite drops during the metal transfer process is also considered. High-speed photography, laser-shadow imaging, and metallographic analysis validate the numerical model, and recommendations are made on the topics that require further consideration for a more accurate metal transfer model.
Conceptual Design and Simulation of a Small Hybrid-Electric Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Parallel hybrid-electric propulsion systems would be beneficial for small unmanned aerial vehicles used for military, homeland security, and disaster-monitoring missions involving intelligence, surveillance, or reconnaissance (ISR). The benefits include increased time on station and range as compared to electric-powered unmanned aerial vehicles and reduced acoustic and thermal signatures not available with gasoline-powered unmanned aerial vehicles. A conceptual design of a small unmanned aerial vehicle with a parallel hybrid-electric propulsion system, the application of a rule-based controller to the hybrid-electric system, and simulation results are provided. The two-point conceptual design includes an internal combustion engine sized for cruise speed and an electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack sized for endurance speed. A rule-based controller based on ideal operating line concepts is applied to the control of the parallel hybrid-electric propulsion system. The energy use for the 13.6 kg (30 Ib) hybrid-electric unmanned aerial vehicle with the rule-based controller during one-hour and three-hour ISR missions is 54% and 22% less, respectively, than for a four-stroke gasoline-powered unmanned aerial vehicle.
The Governor's Backyard: A Seat-Vote Model of Electoral Reform for Subnational Multiparty Races

Evaluating the fairness of electoral reforms is a critical requirement for electoral accountability in any democracy. There is, however, no research measuring the expected seat benefit for incumbent reformers in newly democratized countries. Much of this delay is due to the technical difficulties of generalizing previous seat-vote models to multiparty races, a problem that has limited both subnational and cross-national comparisons of electoral regime change. Using a multilevel Bayesian model we solve this analytical problem and produce comparable estimates of partisan bias and majoritarian bias across the Argentine provinces. Our model estimates the effect of reforms across many electoral regimes and can be applied to comparative analyses of electoral reforms within and across countries. In the particular case of Argentina, we show large seat premiums for incumbent parties initiating electoral reforms.
Ball grid array solder joint failure envelope development for dynamic loading

Solder joint interfaces with motherboard (MB) and/or substrate in ball grid array (BGA) packages have been observed to crack and create electrical opens during shock and drop dynamic testing. An experimental and numerical methodology that defines a failure envelope for a given package technology, and ensures the envelope is applicable for dynamic loading at MB and system-level testing, is developed. The quantitative magnitude of the envelope is defined by performing testing on a coupon board with the BGA package and correlating the coupon-level numerical model with the test data. The validity of the approach is shown by simulating a MB-level model with a surface mount BGA package and identifying sensitivity of the force state to the boundary conditions of mass and MB stiffness attributes. A MB that is pre-stressed due to assembly deflections in a system (slow loading) is subjected to shock test (fast loading) is an example when two extreme load rates are combined together. The validity of the approach based on solder material creep and plasticity is shown and is verified by testing with mixed rate loading.