cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adversarial sampling of unknown and high-dimensional conditional distributions

Abstract Many engineering problems require the prediction of realization-to-realization variability or a refined description of modeled quantities. In that case, it is necessary to sample elements from unknown high-dimensional spaces with possibly millions of degrees of freedom. While there exist methods able to sample elements from probability density functions (PDF) with known shapes, several approximations need to be made when the distribution is unknown. In this paper the sampling method, as well as the inference of the underlying distribution, are both handled with a data-driven method known as generative adversarial networks (GAN), which trains two competing neural networks to produce a network that can effectively generate samples from the training set distribution. In practice, it is often necessary to draw samples from conditional distributions. When the conditional variables are continuous, only one (if any) data point corresponding to a particular value of a conditioning variable may be available, which is not sufficient to estimate the conditional distribution. This work handles this problem using an a priori estimation of the conditional moments of a PDF. Two approaches, stochastic estimation, and an external neural network are compared here for computing these moments; however, any preferred method can be used. The algorithm is demonstrated in the case of the deconvolution of a filtered turbulent flow field. It is shown that all the versions of the proposed algorithm effectively sample the target conditional distribution with minimal impact on the quality of the samples compared to state-of-the-art methods. Additionally, the procedure can be used as a metric for the diversity of samples generated by a conditional GAN (cGAN) conditioned with continuous variables.
Direct numerical simulation of laminar breakdown in high-speed, axisymmetric boundary layers

The laminar breakdown of high-speed, axisymmetric boundary-layer flow is simulated numerically by solving the compressible Navier-Stokes equations using spectral collocation and high-order compact-difference techniques. Numerical test cases include Mach 4.5 flow along a hollow cylinder and Mach 6.8 flow along a sharp cone. From initial states perturbed by “second-mode” primary and subharmonic (H-type) secondary disturbances, the well-resolved (temporal) calculations proceed well into the laminar breakdown stages, characterized by saturation of the primary and secondary instability waves, explosive growth of higher harmonics, and rapid increase in the wall shear stress. The numerical results qualitatively replicate two previously unexplained phenomena which have been observed in high-speed transition experiments: the appearance of so-called “rope-like waves” and the “precursor transition” effect, in which transitional flow appears to originate near the critical layer well upstream of the transition location at the wall. The numerical results further reveal that neither of these effects can be explained, even qualitatively, by linear stability theory alone. Structures of “rope-like” appearance are shown to arise from secondary instability. Whereas certain features of the precursor transition effect also emerge from secondary instability theory, its nature is revealed to be fundamentally nonlinear.
Domain-general conflict monitoring predicts neural and behavioral indices of linguistic error processing during reading comprehension.

The ability to detect and respond to linguistic errors is critical for successful reading comprehension, but these skills can vary considerably across readers. In the current study, healthy adults (age 18-35) read short discourse scenarios for comprehension while monitoring for the presence of semantic anomalies. Using a factor analytic approach, we examined if performance in nonlinguistic conflict monitoring tasks (Stroop, AX-CPT) would predict individual differences in neural and behavioral measures of linguistic error processing. Consistent with this hypothesis, domain-general conflict monitoring predicted both readers' end-of-trial acceptability judgments and the amplitude of a late neural response (the P600) evoked by linguistic anomalies. The influence on the P600 was nonlinear, suggesting that online neural responses to linguistic errors are influenced by both the effectiveness and efficiency of domain-general conflict monitoring. These relationships were also highly specific and remained after controlling for variability in working memory capacity and verbal knowledge. Finally, we found that domain-general conflict monitoring also predicted individual variability in measures of reading comprehension, and that this relationship was partially mediated by behavioral measures of linguistic error detection. These findings inform our understanding of the role of domain-general executive functions in reading comprehension, with potential implications for the diagnosis and treatment of language impairments. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
Curvature and finite domination

Upper bounds obtained by Gromov on the Betti numbers of cer- tain closed Riemannian manifolds are shown to be upper bounds on the min- imum number of cells in CW-spaces dominating such manifolds. In [Grol], Gromov obtains a bound on the sum of the Betti numbers of a closed Riemannian manifold V in terms of a lower bound on the sectional curvature and an upper bound on the diameter. In more detail: Fix a field F, and let /t = 3i (V; F) be the dimension over F of Hi(V; F). Let D = DL(V) be the diameter of V. Theorem A [Grol]. There exists a constant C = C(n) such that every closed connected Riemannian n-manifold V satisfies
New Studies on Amylosucrase, a Bacterial α-d-Glucosylase That Directly Converts Sucrose to a Glycogen-like α-Glucan

Abstract Amylosucrase (EC 2.4.1.4) was solubilized and purified more than 100-fold from Neisseria perflava cells. Preparations had a specific activity of about 3 i.u. per mg of protein, were free of maltase and α-glucan phosphorylase activity, and converted sucrose to an amylaceous α-glucan, fructose, and minor amounts of maltosaccharides (Keq = 33, ΔG° = -2.1 Cal). Sugar nucleotide mediation was absent. Added UDP or ADP did not affect the conversion rate, or provide UDP- or ADP-[14C]glucose from [14C]sucrose even when polymerization was prevented by α-amylase. The α-glucan formed from sucrose was glycogen-like (e.g. 48% hydrolyzed to maltose by β-amylase). The branches may be produced in the usual way, assuming the amylosucrase preparations were contaminated with a dextrinyl transferring (branching) enzyme. It is possible, however, that amylosucrase itself may produce the entire glucan structure by a distinctive process involving α-d-glucosyl (monomer) transfer exclusively. Specificity of the enzyme for monomer was apparent as only α-d-glucosyl was transferred from amylopectin, maltoheptaose, and sucrose to [14C]fructose (forming labeled sucrose). The C4-linked α-maltosyl, α-maltotriosyl, etc., terminal segmers of the first two compounds and the α-maltosyl group of 4g α-d-glucosyl-sucrose were not transferred. α-Glucan synthesis by amylosucrase was found to require a primer. Onset of synthesis from sucrose free of amylaceous impurities was long delayed, and this delay was abolished by amylopectin or glycogen, 3 to 6 x 10-6 m end groups. Sucrose, with a donor affinity of Ks = 17 mm, appears to bind nonproductively at the acceptor site since high concentrations greatly depressed α-glucan synthesis (Kss = 0.3 m). In action on [14C]sucrose, amylosucrose produced α-glucan comprising 99.6% [14C]glucose and 0.4% primer; such evidence for [14C]glucose polymerization is lacking in reports of starch synthesis from sucrose by plant enzyme systems.
Modal truncation of parabolic equations using the Galerkin method and inverse matrix approximations

Examines system reduction of parabolic systems using modal truncation. The parabolic distributed system is first approximated using the Galerkin method. The system matrices have a special structure that allow the authors to find the approximate spectrum of the parabolic system. To do this the authors compute approximate inverses of tridiagonal, diagonally dominant symmetric matrices. This approximation leads to algorithms of order O(n), as opposed to traditional algorithms of order O(n/sup 3/), where n is the order of the system. Finally an example is presented to illustrate the proposed algorithm.
The impact of wafer back surface finish on chip strength

A correlation between the wafer back surface roughness and the resistance of the chip to stress-induced failures is discussed. Chip strength was measured using the simply-supported beam method for chips of different backside roughness. Encapsulated samples were subsequently subjected to mechanical impact loading and thermal stresses as in vapor phase flow. The results show that the chip strength bears an inversely proportional relationship with the roughness of the wafer back. Hence, it is important to control the wafer back surface roughness for reliability improvement, especially for surface mount devices. >
Increased risk of colorectal neoplasia in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis and ulcerative colitis: a meta-analysis

Abstract Background: Published data on the risk of colorectal neoplasia in patients with ulcerative colitis with and without primary sclerosing cholangitis are conflicting. A meta-analysis was performed to synthesize available publications and to compare the risk of colorectal neoplasia in patients with ulcerative colitis with and without primary sclerosing cholangitis. Methods: By using MEDLINE and manual search methods, studies were identified that compared the risk of colorectal neoplasia (dysplasia and carcinoma) in patients with ulcerative colitis with and without primary sclerosing cholangitis. In addition, citations were reviewed in relevant articles and proceedings from gastroenterology meetings, and investigators were contacted when data were incomplete. The summary odds ratio (OR) was then calculated for the risk for patients with ulcerative colitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis of having colorectal neoplasia develop compared with that of patients with ulcerative colitis without primary sclerosing cholangitis. Results: Eleven studies met all eligibility criteria for the meta-analysis. Patients with ulcerative colitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis are at increased risk of colorectal dysplasia and carcinoma compared with patients with ulcerative colitis alone; OR 4.79: 95% CI [3.58, 6.41] with the Mantel-Haenszel method, and OR 5.11: 95% CI [3.15, 8.29] with the Der Simonian and Laird method. This increased risk is present even when the risk of colorectal carcinoma alone is considered; OR 4.09: 95% CI [2.89, 5.76] and OR 4.26: 95% CI [2.80, 6.48] by using, respectively, the Mantel-Haenszel and the Der Simonian and Laird methods. Conclusions: Patients with ulcerative colitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis have a significantly higher risk for the development of colorectal neoplasia than patients with ulcerative colitis but not primary sclerosing cholangitis. More intensive colonoscopic surveillance should be considered for patients with ulcerative colitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. (Gastrointest Endosc 2002;56:48-54.)
Experimental and Computational Study of the Transformation of Terminal Alkynes to Vinylidene Ligands on trans-(Chloro)bis(phosphine)Rh Fragments and Effects of Phosphine Substituents

Experimental and computational evidence points to unimolecular transformation of terminal alkynes on the title Rh(I) metal fragments. Lack of isotopic scrambling in double-crossover experiments is inconsistent with a previously proposed bimolecular pathway. Focusing on a unimolecular manifold, alkyne binding to the metal forms the Rh(I) alkyne π-complex 2, which isomerizes to the Rh(III) hydrido(alkynyl) species 4, ultimately leading to Rh(I) vinylidene product 5. In making alkyne-free precursors, use of heterocyclic ligand (i-Pr)2PIm‘ (1b, Im‘ = 1-methyl-4-tert-butylimidazol-2-yl) led to species 8 with a labile P,N chelate, whereas a geometrically similar o-tolyl ligand suffered metalation at the methyl group and was unsuitable for alkyne transformation studies. Kinetic studies comparing 1b and (i-Pr)2PPh (1c) allowed determination of rate constants for the alkyne binding event and conversion of 2 to 5 (the latter, k2-5, being 9.6 times faster for 1b). Based on a scan of the two-dimensional reaction surf...
Identification of an inward rectifier potassium channel gene expressed in mouse cortical astrocytes.

These experiments identify an inward rectifier K+ (Kir) channel expressed in mouse cortical and white matter astrocytes at the molecular level. Messenger RNA for one of the known Kir channel genes, Kir4.1, is present at much higher levels in cortical astrocytes in primary culture than the other known Kir family members. In culture, the level of Kir4.1 mRNA is lower in proliferating cells and in cells cultured for 16 h under hypoxic conditions, compared to confluent cells. Partial differentiation of the astrocytes with dibutyryl cAMP or by coculture with neurons has no effect on the Kir4.1 mRNA level. In situ hybridization experiments show that Kir4.1 mRNA is broadly distributed in the adult brain, including the neocortex, the stratum pyrimadale of the hippocampus, and the piriform cortex. Immunostaining confirms that the Kir4.1 protein is expressed by cultured astrocytes and also by cocultured cortical neurons. Astrocytes and neurons display a patchy pattern of immunostaining, raising the possibility that the channels sort themselves in clusters in the plasma membrane. Stellate cells in the neocortex and white matter are immunoreactive for Kir4.1, and double immunofluorescence experiments show colocalization of Kir4.1 and glial acidic fibrillary protein (GFAP) on stellate cells in the white matter. The cloned mouse Kir4.1 cDNA, when expressed heterologously in HEK cells, gives rise to inactivating Kir channels similar to those recorded from cultured astrocytes. These results indicate that the Kir4.1 gene product forms a Kir channel, or is a subunit of the channel, in mouse cortical astrocytes both in culture and in vivo. GLIA 33:57–71, 2001. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Charging of particles in a plasma

Several models that predict the charge of particles in a plasma are reviewed. The simplest is based on orbit-limited probe theory. This basic model can be improved by adding several effects: charge reduction at high dust densities, electron emission, ion trapping and fluctuations. The charge is reduced at high dust densities, when a significant fraction of the charge in the plasma resides on the particles, depleting the plasma. Electron emission due to electron impact or ultraviolet exposure can cause a particle to have a positive charge, which has useful implications for plasma processing, since particles are confined in a discharge only if they have a negative charge. Ion trapping occurs due to ion-neutral collisions within the attractive Debye sphere of a negatively charged particle. Trapped ions reduce the net electric force on a particle. A particle's charge fluctuates because the currents collected from the plasma consist of discrete charges arriving at the particle at random intervals. The root mean square fractional fluctuation level varies as 0.5(N)- 12 / where (N)=(Q)/e is the mean number of electron charges on the particle.
Effect of instructions on functional reach in persons with and without cerebrovascular accident

Objective Verbal instructions comprise an important element of clinical practice, however, their effectiveness in promoting movement organization in persons with cerebrovascular accident (CVA) has not been well investigated. Method A counterbalanced, repeated-measures design was used to examine the effects of externally focused (task-related) versus internally focused (movement-related) instructions on movement kinematics during three functional reaching tasks. Participants included 16 persons with stroke who were able to perform the tasks with their affected arm and 17 age-matched adults without neurological impairments. Results Significantly shorter movement time and greater peak velocity were evident when reaching under the external-focus condition of all tasks than for the internal-focus condition. Conclusion One clinical implication is that internally focused instructions can contribute to slower and less forceful reach in adults with and without CVA. This research reinforces the need for therapists to consider their use of instruction during the evaluation and treatment of movement disorders.
THE CAUSE OF REDUCED GROWTH OF MANDUCA SEXTA LARVAE ON A LOW-WATER DIET: INCREASED METABOLIC PROCESSING COSTS OR NUTRIENT LIMITATION?

Relative growth rates and nitrogen accumulation rates are lower for third-instar ~Uanduca sexta larvae on an artificial diet containing 65% water than on one containing 82% water, due to reduced efficiencies of conversion of digested food and digested nitrogen into larval biomass. Uric acid production is 2.@-2.5fold greater, and non-feeding respiration rates 16.0% higher in the larvae on the low-water diet. Food is the major source of water for the larvae, with metabolic water making only a minor contribution to water input. Faecal excretion is the major avenue of water loss, although a significant amount of water is also lost by transpiration. Larvae from the low-water diet retain and use a higher percentage of the water they gain than larvae from the high-water diet (49.4% vs 41.9%). They produce much drier faeces (48.1% water vs 77.3% water), and, because their tissues are less hydrated (81.3% water vs 88.1% water), they synthesize 70% more new, fully hydrated tissue from a given amount of water than larvae from the high-water diet. We discuss problems involved in the use of determinations of efficiency of conversion of digested food in establishing causal links between diet, growth, and metabolic maintenance costs, and also offer a definition of food processing costs that distinguishes them from metabolic costs attributable to other processes, such as food acquisition, growth, and moulting. We conclude that reduced growth and reduced efficiency of conversion of digested food on low-water diets are due to limitation in the amount of water available for the synthesis of new hydrated tissue, and not to the imposition of higher food processing costs.
Development and multi-laboratory verification of U.S. EPA method 540 for the analysis of drinking water contaminants by solid phase extraction-LC/MS/MS

A drinking water method for 12 chemicals, predominantly pesticides, is presented that addresses the occurrence monitoring needs of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for a future Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Regulation (UCMR). The method employs solid phase extraction liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (SPE-LC/MS/MS). The method uses Trizma, 2-chloroacetamide, and L-ascorbic acid to buffer and preserve the drinking water samples to a maximum of 28 days. Chlorpyrifos oxon is restricted to a holding time of 7 days based on experimental data. Mean recoveries from chlorinated ground water samples fortified (n = 4) with the method analytes at 12.8–32 ng L−1 are 72.0–109% with <6.5% relative standard deviation. Single laboratory lowest concentration minimum reporting levels of 0.30–2.7 ng L−1 are demonstrated with this methodology. Multi-laboratory data are presented that demonstrate method ruggedness and transferability for the method analytes. EPA Method 540 meets all of the UCMR survey requirements for sample collection and storage, precision, accuracy, and sensitivity and may be proposed for use under a future UCMR.
Lab Space: the Key to Successful Instrumental Shade Passing

AN LAB space, one of the most uniform, was not suitable for single number shade passing but, because it and its successor CIE LAB readily allow colour differences to be split into three components, it has permitted two methods of instrumental shade passing to be developed, which have been widely used in dyehouses and quality control laboratories, viz. colour–specific shade passing and the development of optimized equations. Three different methods of splitting are described in detail.
A 300-MHz fixed-delay tree search-DFE analog CMOS disk-drive read channel

A decision feedback equalizer (DFE) with digital error detection and correction implements a fixed-delay tree search with depth of 2. The disk-drive read waveform is first equalized to EPR4 for clock recovery and then re-equalized to the DFE target. A mostly analog implementation of this read channel in 0.6-/spl mu/m CMOS implements a tapped delay-line forward filter with a cascade of track-and-hold circuits and variable transconductors. Using MTR (2,k) code, the compact read channel IC surpasses a conventional EPR4 read channel with Viterbi detector at user densities in the range 2.0-3.0.
Calculated lamellar binding. I. Van Der Waals bonding in talc and pyrophyllite

Van der Walls bound lamellar solids interlayer binding energy computational model, discussing talc and pyrophyllite equilibrium stacking arrangements and force constants
Implementing a portable FORTRAN Uniform (0,1) generator

The implementation and testing of a portable FORTRAN routine is described which utilizes a well-known random number generator to produce Uniform (0,1) values. The implementa tion techniques illustrate the advantages of a well-tested por table algorithm and expose some problems which commonly occur in the generation of Uniform (0, 1) numbers for applica tion areas such as simulation. These problems include the pit falls of using machine-dependent random number generators with unknown characteristics typically supplied with computer system software. The excellent global statistical properties of the generator used in this routine are documented and local testing of the Uniform (0,1) values produced is provided. An additional routine is described which enables the user to obtain indepen dent streams of values. Fifteen streams are rated for their per formance on uniformity and independence tests. The provid ed seed values enable the user to select streams with the desired properties for a particular application.
The Cyclohexanol Cycle and Synthesis of Nylon 6,6: Green Chemistry in the Undergraduate Organic Laboratory

A one-term synthesis project that incorporates many of the principles of green chemistry is presented for the undergraduate organic laboratory. In this multistep scheme of reactions, students react, recycle, and ultimately convert cyclohexanol to nylon 6,6. The individual reactions in the project employ environmentally friendly methodologies, and the scheme minimizes impact on the environment by reducing waste, using the product of one reaction as the starting material for the next.
Extragonadal germ cell tumors: a fine-needle aspiration biopsy study.

Germ cell tumors (GCT) are neoplasms that originate predominately in the ovary and testis. Tumors of germ cell origin only very uncommonly arise in extragonadal sites. We have diagnosed ten primary malignant extragonadal GCT arising in the mediastinum, retroperitoneum, liver, and sacrococcygeal region by fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Patient ages ranged from 1 to 54 years; the majority were males. Our series included three seminomas, three yolk sac tumors (YST), one choriocarcinoma, one embryonal carcinoma, and two mixed, poorly differentiated GCT. in aspirates, seminomatous elements are dissociated with uniform mononucleate cells having large vesicular nuclei and prominent nucleoli. A tigroid background is produced with Diff-Quik—stained smears. YST yields cohesive clusters of cells with large nuclei, vacuolated cytoplasm, and extracellular hyaline matrix (spheres or hyaline globules). Giant multinucleate tumor cells are seen in choriocarcinoma. Embryonal carcinoma yields cellular smears of hyperchromatic cells with scant cytoplasm arranged predominantly in glandular or papillary formations. Ultrastructural (four cases) and immunocytochemical (seven cases) studies of aspirated material corroborated our cytologic interpretations. Aneuploid tumor cells were found by flow cytometry in aspirated material from a YST. Subsequent histologic examinations were performed on eight, and all were confirmatory. Although extragonadal GCT are relatively uncommon, they need to be considered in FNAB material from midline mass lesions. Ancillary studies were useful in confirming their diagnosis. © Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Irreversible Island Formation During Deposition: Island Size and Separation Distributions

We present precise simulation results for a simplified model of irreversible nucleation and growth of islands during deposition. We characterize the scaling of the island and adatom densities, the complete island size distribution, and the adatom-island and island-island separation distributions, with the ratio of diffusion to deposition rates (for fixed coverages,θ≪1). We also make some comparisons with rate equation predictions.
Mapping the optimal route between two quantum states

Reconstruction of the quantum trajectories of a superconducting circuit that evolves under the competing influences of continuous weak measurement and Rabi drive makes it possible to deduce the most probable path through quantum state space. Classical systems are unmoved when a measurement is performed. Not so quantum systems, where continuous monitoring can direct the quantum state along a random path. Steve Weber et al. have tracked the quantum trajectories in a qubit, consisting of two aluminum paddles connected by a tunable Josephson junction deposited on silicon. The authors manage to determine which of the possible paths between an initial and a final quantum state is the most probable and show that these 'optimal paths' are in agreement with the route predicted by theory, a quantum relative of the principle of least action that defines the correct path linking two points in space and time in classical mechanics. As well as giving insights into the interplay between measurement dynamics and evolution of a system, this work opens up new possibilities for first-principles synthesis of control sequences for complex quantum systems and in information processing. A central feature of quantum mechanics is that a measurement result is intrinsically probabilistic. Consequently, continuously monitoring a quantum system will randomly perturb its natural unitary evolution. The ability to control a quantum system in the presence of these fluctuations is of increasing importance in quantum information processing and finds application in fields ranging from nuclear magnetic resonance1 to chemical synthesis2. A detailed understanding of this stochastic evolution is essential for the development of optimized control methods. Here we reconstruct the individual quantum trajectories3,4,5 of a superconducting circuit that evolves under the competing influences of continuous weak measurement and Rabi drive. By tracking individual trajectories that evolve between any chosen initial and final states, we can deduce the most probable path through quantum state space. These pre- and post-selected quantum trajectories also reveal the optimal detector signal in the form of a smooth, time-continuous function that connects the desired boundary conditions. Our investigation reveals the rich interplay between measurement dynamics, typically associated with wavefunction collapse, and unitary evolution of the quantum state as described by the Schrodinger equation. These results and the underlying theory6, based on a principle of least action, reveal the optimal route from initial to final states, and may inform new quantum control methods for state steering and information processing.
5Gbps Transmission over 100km of Optical Fibre Using a Directly Modulated DFB Laser and an Engineered 1.3 micron Pr3+-Doped Fluoride Fibre Power Amplifier

The realisation of the 'information superhighway' or, more accurately, a broadband fibre optic telecommunications network, will require a huge increase in the data rates supported by the worlds existing fibre optic networks. As most installed terrestrial systems currently use fibre with a dispersion minimum at 1.3 microns it is clear that a practical 1.3 micron fibre amplifier could play a significant role in the evolution of such systems[1]. The existence of a practical 1.3 micron amplifier would allow a simple means by which the existing optical fibre base could evolve to the Gigabit data rates soon to be required. In this context, simple refers to the fact that if amplification is available to overcome the higher transmission loss of the 'second window', then the naturally low dispersion at this wavelength will allow the use of directly modulated commercial laser sources and low-cost PIN FET receivers enabling a straightforward and thereby reliable means of network upgrade.
Comparison of the drosophila melanogaster, human and murine sm b cDNAs: evolutionary conservation

Abstract To analyze the evolutionary stability of the Sm B polypeptides, the cDNA nucleotide (nt) sequence was derived for the Drosophila melanogaster Sm B polypeptide and compared to the cDNAs encoding human and murine Sm B. The three cDNAs were transcribed and translated in reticulocyte lysates followed by analysis of the synthesized proteins by SDS-PAGE. D. melanogaster B migrated at approximately 25 kDa, in comparison to 28 kDa for the murine and human B proteins, although all three proteins were immunoprecipitated by human anti-Sm autoantibodies and by the Y12 anti-Sm murine monoclonal antibody (Y12 mAb). Immunoblots and immunoprecipitations of [35S]methionine-labeled D. melanogaster S2/M3 cells confirmed the smaller size of the D. melanogaster protein, and revealed that B' was absent in this cell line, as in murine cells. In comparison to the 231 amino acids (aa) of human and murine B, the deduced sequence for the D. melanogaster clone was 199 aa (predicted Mr of 24 598) with two 5-aa deletions and a 19-aa truncation at the 3′ end, compared to the other two clones.D. melanogaster protein B shared 65% aa sequence identity with the human and mouse clones, and 80% similarity when conservative aa substitutions were noted. The C-terminal portion of the D. melanogaster protein was the most evolutionarily variable in comparison to the deduced aa sequences for the other two proteins; however, autoantigenic epitopes bound by human anti-Sm antibodies and the Y12 mAb in this region of the protein were conserved across species lines. The high degree of conservation of the B polypeptide underscores its importance in mammalian mRNA metabolism and likely accounts for the ability of anti-Sm antibodies to bind the Sm proteins from a broad range of species.
Keeping Track of Sequential Events: Effects of Stimulus On-Time and Interstimulus Off-Time

Summary.-Ss were required to keep track of the number of occurrences of each of four different letters (categories) presented sequentially as a function of the total number of letters presented (trial length), the rate of presentation, and the cwo components which, when combined, consrirute the rate, namely, stimulus on-time and the interstimulus interval or off-time. In general, performance varied inversely with trial length and rate of presentation. Of greater imporrance, however, was rhe complex interaction berween the rate of presentation and the components of chat rate. At the fastest rate, performance was relatively invariant as a function of these components; at intermediate rates the shortest ontime led to the best performance, while at the slowest rate the shortest on-time led to the poorest performance. The observed results are explained primarily in terms of the time available for rehearsal. A recent study by Monty, Taub, and Laughery (1965) examined several parameters which affect human ability to tally mentally and keep track of the number of occurrences of each of several different symbols presented in a sequence. In general, the results indicated that performance varied inversely with presentation rate, the nnmber of different symbols (categories) presenred in a given sequence, and the total number of symbols in chat sequence (trial length). The observed effects were explained primarily in terms of the time available for rehearsal. More specifically, it was s~rggested that increases in both rate of presencation and number of categories reduced the time available for rehearsal after the presentation of each additional symbol and thus degraded performance. The longer the trial length, the greater the number of errors that were likely to accumulate.
Binding studies of molecular linkers to ZnO and MgZnO nanotip films.

Two bifunctional linkers, a rigid-rod p-ethynyl-isophthalic acid capped with a Ru(II)−polypyridyl complex and 3-mercaptopropionic acid, were covalently bound to ZnO nanotip films grown by metal−organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) technology. This highly vertically aligned, crystalline form of ZnO had not been functionalized before. The binding was studied by Fourier transform (FT) IR and UV spectroscopies and probed, in the case of the Ru complex, by static and dynamic fluorescence quenching. The molecules did bind through the carboxylic acid groups, and the FT-IR attenuated total reflectance spectra are indicative of a bidentate carboxylate binding mode. Other molecules (heptanoic acid, isophthalic acid, and trimethoxy(2-phenylethyl)silane) were also bound to the ZnO nanotips. A comparison was made with epitaxial ZnO films grown by MOCVD and ZnO mesoporous films prepared from colloidal solutions to investigate the effect of the ZnO morphology. The ZnO nanotips were excellent binding substrates, par...
Cisplatin nanoliposomes for cancer therapy: AFM and fluorescence imaging of cisplatin encapsulation, stability, cellular uptake, and toxicity.

Cisplatin is the most effective cytotoxic agent against many cancers. Its usage, however, is limited due to inefficient uptake by the target cells. A liposomal formulation of cisplatin is reported to partly overcome this limitation. Physicochemical characteristics of the liposome-cisplatin preparation, including its size, stability, encapsulation efficiency, and cytoplasmic internalization efficiency, play a significant role in an effective usage of liposomal formulations. We have used atomic force microscopy (AFM) to determine physicochemical characteristics of cisplatin-encapsulated liposomes, AFM and fluorescence microscopy to examine their cytoplasmic internalization, and Live/Dead assay to examine their cell toxicity. Nonencapsulated cisplatin is globular and 10−50 nm in size. AFM force-dissection and stiffness measurements show that cisplatin-encapsulated liposomes are significantly stiffer (∼100%) and more stable than liposomes without encapsulated cisplatin. Cisplatin-encapsulated liposomes of ∼25...
M-pick, a modularity-based method for OTU picking of 16S rRNA sequences.

Background Binning 16S rRNA sequences into operational taxonomic units (OTUs) is an initial crucial step in analyzing large sequence datasets generated to determine microbial community compositions in various environments including that of the human gut. Various methods have been developed, but most suffer from either inaccuracies or from being unable to handle millions of sequences generated in current studies. Furthermore, existing binning methods usually require a priori decisions regarding binning parameters such as a distance level for defining an OTU.
Effects of Urban Spatial Structure, Sociodemographics, and Climate on Residential Water Consumption in Hillsboro, Oregon1

House-Peters, Lily, Bethany Pratt, and Heejun Chang, 2010. Effects of Urban Spatial Structure, Sociodemographics, and Climate on Residential Water Consumption in Hillsboro, Oregon. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 46(3):461-472. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-1688.2009.00415.x Abstract: In the Portland metropolitan area, suburban growth in cities such as Hillsboro is projected to increase as people seek affordable housing near a burgeoning metropolis. The most significant determinants for increases in water demand are population growth, climate change, and the type of urban development that occurs. This study analyzes the spatial patterns of single family residential (SFR) water consumption in Hillsboro, Oregon, at the census block scale. The following research questions are addressed: (1) What are the significant determinants of SFR water consumption in Hillsboro, Oregon? (2) Is SFR water demand sensitive to drought conditions and interannual climate variation? (3) To what magnitude do particular census blocks react to drought conditions and interannual climate variation? Using ordinary least squares multiple regression and spatial regression methods, we found that base use, representing indoor water use, is dependent on household size and that seasonal use, representing external water use is dependent on both education level and the size of the property’s outdoor space. Spatial analysis techniques determined that although the water demand of the study area as a whole is not sensitive to drought conditions, certain individual census blocks do respond with a higher magnitude of water use. The most climate-sensitive census blocks tend to contain newer and larger homes, and have higher property values and more affluent and well-educated residents.
Graphite-tube effects on perchloric acid interferences on aluminum and thallium in the stabilized-temperature platform furnace

Abstract The determination of aluminum in the presence of perchloric acid is shown to depend upon the quality of the pyrolytic coating of furnace tubes. With new pyrolytically coated tubes, no interference was found from 0.5 M HClO4 on 0.5 ng Al and no decrease in signal or deterioration of the pyrolytic coating was found after more than 150 firings. Very little interference was found in the determination of thallium in perchloric acid. In both cases the literature reported severe interferences. The determination of thallium and aluminum in perchloric acid appears to be more sensitive to the quality of the pyrolytic graphite coating than any of the materials studied previously here.
On a paper of Gaunt concerned with the start of numerical solutions of differential equations

Dans cet article nous attirons l'attention sur un resultat du aGaunt et que voici: Si pour resoudre l'equation differetielle $$\dot x = f\left( {t,x} \right), x\left( 0 \right) = x_0 $$ on utilise la methode des differences $$\mu \delta \xi _i = h f\left( {t,\xi } \right)_i , \xi _0 = x_0 , \xi _1 $$ la valeur de ξ1 doit etre calculee d'une facon determinee, distincte dex(h). L'erreur varie alors uniformement au sens decrit ci-dessus et on peut appliquer la metamethode deRichardson. Nous donnons un enonce precis et une demonstration elegante que nous etendons ensuite au cas d'une equation differentielle de second ordre. Nous indiquons d'autres generalisations possibles et signalons une methode pratique de calcul pour ξ1.
Nurses Can Write for Publication

Abstract Again, the requirements for submitting an abstract vary with the journal. In essence, the abstract is very similar to a summary: it tells the reader what is addressed in the paper. An abstract should state, in the first sentence, why the study or review was undertaken. Then, state what was done and briefly summarize the results, and comment upon the significance of the finding(s).
Inner‐age satisfaction in Africa and Asia: a cross‐cultural exploration

Field survey studies undertaken in Nigeria, Korea, China and India explored the way inner‐age satisfaction is experienced in those culturally diverse societies. Chronologically 20 to 59 year old respondents’ inner‐age satisfaction was gauged as the average difference between feel, look, do, and interest cognitive (self‐perceived) and desired (ideal) inner‐age dimensions. Analyses of covariance (with chronological age factored out) across the four nations showed Nigeria to differ significantly in terms of inner‐age satisfaction from each Asian population, contrary to the Asian societies where no differences were found across samples (except between Korea and India where inner‐age satisfaction differed at a p .05). High levels of satisfaction with inner‐age (coming about when cognitive and desired ages are equal) commonly transpired: 31.4 per cent of Indian, 36.9 per cent of Nigerian, 44.3 per cent of Chinese, and 44.9 per cent of Korean respondents. Age dissatisfaction in an elder direction (ideal age older than self‐perceived age) was atypical and happened most often among Nigerian (23.4 per cent) and least among Korean subjects (10.7 per cent). In contrast, wishing for a younger innerage was a commonplace phenomenon in India (50.6 per cent of the sample), as well as in China where it occurred the least (36.6 per cent). The study’s findings imply the universal nature of the way human beings (irrespective of culture) perceive and feel about inner‐age, as well as the potential of an inner‐age satisfaction psychographic as a relevant consumer behavior segmentation trait for marketing planners of age‐sensitive products and services who seek to standardize their global branding and distribution.
Unified approach to modeling & simulation of space communication networks and systems

Network simulator software tools are often used to model the behaviors and interactions of applications, protocols, packets, and data links in terrestrial communication networks. Other software tools that model the physics, orbital dynamics, and RF characteristics of space systems have matured to allow for rapid, detailed analysis of space communication links. However, the absence of a unified toolset that integrates the two modeling approaches has encumbered the systems engineers tasked with the design, architecture, and analysis of complex space communication networks and systems. This paper presents the unified approach and describes the motivation, challenges, and our solution — the customization of the network simulator to integrate with astronautical analysis software tools for high-fidelity end-to-end simulation.
Evaluation of efficacy of four commercial enzyme-based cleaners of ultrafiltration systems.

Abstract Use of UF and RO in the dairy industry is rapidly expanding. Because the dairy industry demands high levels of cleanliness, this new technology requires close evaluation to assure adherence to these standards. Efficacy of four commercial enzyme-based cleaners (pH 7.0 to 8.4) in UF systems was determined by microbiological evaluation and permeate flux restoration. The UF system containing two polysulfone UF membranes in parallel, was soiled by recycling 380 L of sweet whey (40°C) for 2.0 h followed by concentrating whey for .5 h. The cleaning cycle consisted of acid cleaner (.5 h, 40°C), followed by enzyme cleaner (10.0 h, 40°C), and rinsing (2.0 h, 40°C). A chlorine sanitizer was circulated (5 min, 40°C) and the unit containing sanitizing solution left idle overnight. Flux was determined and swabs and rinse water samples were taken immediately after soiling, after cleaning, and the next morning to check sanitizing. The four enzyme-based cleaners were unsatisfactory when microbiological criteria were considered. Loss of sanitizer strength and problems with yeast and especially mold growth over time also indicated lack of effective cleaning. Flux, however, was restored easily and did not correlate with efficacy of cleaning based on numbers of microorganisms remaining.
After heart attack: behavioral expectations for the cardiac.

Abstract Programs of cardiac rehabilitation emphasize the importance of an early return of the patient to normal levels of activity, within the limits of his residual heart damage. But this is sometimes blocked because the patient, or others who influence him, hold an opposite view about the efficacy of activity for the cardiac, and cardiacs report that other people expect them to be inactive and “take it easy.” This interview survey of 1137 adults in a representative sample of Rhode Island households was undertaken to determine the image of appropriate behavior of the cardiac held by Rhode Island laymen. The data show that these respondents were favorable towards activity for the cardiac, and rejected the view that the cardiac should be restricted and lead a passive life. When personal experience with heart disease was introduced as a control, variations in expectations on the basis of experience were discovered. Persons who claimed to have had an attack were more favorable towards the restriction of activity than were persons who had no past experience with heart disease, or whose experience was limited to knowing someone who had a heart attack. Respondents with higher income and education levels were more likely to favor activity for the cardiac, whereas age was negatively associated with the activity-favorable view. Consistent expectations were found when the responses on one series of items on expectations were compared with responses on another series in which the respondent was asked what he would expect to be ordered for him if he had an attack.
Structure in the K+-nucleon I = 0 total cross section below 1.1 GeV/c☆

Abstract Measurements have been carried out of total cross sections of positive kaons on hydrogen and deuterium to a statistical precision of better than ± 0.1 mb for most points in the range of laboratory momentum from 410 to 1065 MeV/c in intervals of approximately 50 MeV/c. A very broad elastic structure in the I = 0 state is inferred.
Serotonin Transporter Binding in Bipolar Disorder Assessed using [11C]DASB and Positron Emission Tomography

Background Evidence from neuroimaging post-mortem, and genetic studies suggests that bipolar disorder (BD) is associated with abnormalities of the serotonin-transporter (5-HTT) system. Because of various limitations of these studies, however, it has remained unclear whether 5-HTT binding is abnormal in unmedicated BD-subjects. This study used PET and [11C]DASB, a radioligand that afforded higher sensitivity and specificity for the 5-HTT than previously available radioligands, to compare 5-HTT binding between BD and control subjects. Methods The 5-HTT binding-potential (BP) was assessed in 18 currently-depressed, unmedicated BD-subjects and 37 healthy controls using PET and [11C]DASB. Results In BD, the mean 5-HTT BP was increased in thalamus, dorsal cingulate cortex (DCC), medial prefrontal cortex and insula and decreased in the brainstem at the level of the pontine raphe-nuclei. Anxiety ratings correlated positively with 5-HTT BP in insula and DCC, and BP in these regions was higher in subjects manifesting pathological obsessions and compulsions relative to BD-subjects lacking such symptoms. Subjects with a history of suicide attempts showed reduced 5-HTT binding in the midbrain and increased binding in anterior cingulate cortex versus controls and to BD-subjects without attempts. Conclusions This is the first study to report abnormalities in 5-HTT binding in unmedicated BD-subjects. The direction of abnormality in the brainstem was opposite to that found in the cortex, thalamus, and striatum. Elevated 5-HTT binding in the cortex may be related to anxiety symptoms and syndromes associated with BD.