cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization and chromosomal mapping of two pseudogenes of the mouse Pafaha/Lis1 gene: retrointegration hotspots in the mouse genome.

Isolated lissencephaly sequence and Miller-Dieker syndrome are related neurodevelopmental disorders caused by defects of the LIS1 gene encoding the alpha subunit of intracellular platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase. In addition to the ortholog of the human LIS1 gene (Pafaha/Lis1), the mouse genome contains two more homologs. In order to characterize the new members of this gene family, we isolated both Pafaha/Lis1-related genes (Pafaha-ps1 and Pafaha-ps2) from a mouse genomic library. Pafaha-ps1 and Pafaha-ps2 are processed pseudogenes formed by the retroinsertion of 5'-truncated Pafaha/Lis1 cDNAs. Sequence analysis revealed a striking accumulation of retroelements at both loci, identifying two retroinsertion hotspots in the mouse genome. The recognition of tRNA genes flanking Pafaha-ps1 provides an example for the potential association of RNA polymerase III transcription and retroinsertion in mammals. Linkage mapping placed Pafaha-ps1 and Pafaha-ps2 to distal chromosome (Chr) 3 and proximal Chr 7, respectively. Our results indicate that only one of the three LIS1-related mouse loci (Pafaha/Lis1) is functional, in contrast with two closely related functional genes (LIS1 and LIS2) reported in humans. 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.
Commentary on “Understanding Addictive Vulnerability”

(2003). Commentary on “Understanding Addictive Vulnerability”. Neuropsychoanalysis: Vol. 5, No. 1, pp. 29-35.
Relative distribution of polychlorinated biphenyls among tissues of neonatal American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis).

Recent papers have investigated the utility of chemical analysis of the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) as a nonlethal indicator of avian and reptilian exposure to persistent environmental contaminants. This study was undertaken to evaluate the chemical distribution among fat, CAM, and residual yolk tissues of live neonatal American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) to investigate the potential utility of CAM use as a nonlethal indicator of exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). CAMs were collected from neonatal alligators at hatch, whereas yolk sacs and fat tissues were taken from each animal at euthanization (3 weeks posthatch). All collected tissue samples were separately Soxhlet extracted and analyzed by GC/ECD for PCBs. Log normalized, individual PCB congener concentrations in CAMs were significantly correlated with concentrations in fat (r2 = 0.62) and yolk (r2 = 0.56) tissues. Coefficients of determination from comparisons of homologue group concentrations varied from 0.13 to 0.90. Residue levels in neonatal oviparous organism tissues may be qualitatively assessed through chemical analyses of CAM tissues removed from discarded eggshells.
Neonatal diagnosis of familial type-II hyperlipoproteinaemia.

Abstract The possible detection at birth of children affected with familial hyper-cholesterolaemia (one form of familial type-II hyperlipoproteinaemia) was studied in twenty-nine infants who had one parent with the disorder. In sixteen, the cord-blood plasma concentration of low-density-lipoprotein (L.D.L.) cholesterol exceeded a preselected cut-off limit of 41 mg. per 100 ml. representing the upper 5th percentile for L.D.L. cholesterol in a control population. Thirteen children had a cord-blood L.D.L. cholesterol below this level, and the mean in this group was indistinguishable from that in the controls. All seven with normal L.D.L. cholesterols at birth remained in the normal range at follow-up. Eleven of twelve who had a high L.D.L. cholesterol at birth later had obvious hyperbetalipoproteinaemia. Three of the children re-examined would have been considered normal at birth had the upper 5% for cholesterol concentration (92 mg. per 100 ml.) been used for diagnosis rather than L.D.L. cholesterol. It is concluded that L.D.L. measurement in cord blood allows the identification of children with familial hypercholesterolaemia when one parent is known to have the disorder.
Sensitivity-enhanced silicon slot photonic crystal waveguides

A compact silicon slot photonic crystal waveguide with dual enhancement capability is demonstrated. The waveguide sensitivity is characterized in a Mach-Zehnder interferometer configuration. The sensitivity enhancement is derived through local refractive index variation.
Short-term steroid treatment increases δ GABAA receptor subunit expression in rat CA1 hippocampus: Pharmacological and behavioral effects

In this study, 48 h administration of 3α-OH-5β-pregnan-20-one (3α,5β-THP) or 17β-estradiol (E2)+progesterone (P) to female rats increased expression of the δ subunit of the GABAA receptor (GABAR) in CA1 hippocampus. Coexpression of α4 and δ subunits was suggested by an increased response of isolated pyramidal cells to the GABA agonist 4,5,6,7- tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c]pyridin-3-ol (THIP), following 48 h steroid treatment, and nearly complete blockade by 300 μM lanthanum (La3+). Because α4βδ GABAR are extrasynaptic, we also recorded pharmacologically isolated GABAergic holding current from CA1 hippocampal pyramidal cells in the slice. The La3+-sensitive THIP current, representative of current gated by α4βδ GABAR, was measurable only following 48 h steroid treatment. In contrast, the bicuculline-sensitive current was not altered by steroid treatment, assessed with or without 200 nM gabazine to block synaptic current. However, 48 h steroid treatment resulted in a tonic current insensitive to the benzodiazepine agonists lorazepam (10 μM) and zolpidem (100 nM). These results suggest that 48 h steroid treatment increases expression of α4βδ GABAR which replace the ambient receptor population. Increased anxiolytic effects of THIP were also observed following 48 h steroid treatment. The findings from the present study may be relevant for alterations in mood and benzodiazepine sensitivity reported across the menstrual cycle.
Glutamate receptor ion channels: where do all the calories go?

Glutamate receptor ion channels use the free energy of ligand binding to trigger ion channel activation and desensitization. In this issue, an analysis of all-atom molecular dynamics simulations dissects the binding process, reveals a substantial gain in free energy produced by domain closure for agonists and reports unique energy landscapes for individual ligands.
Distributed algorithm and reversible network

Motivated to design a feasible optical network architecture for the future Internet, we address the question of scheduling (wavelength assignment) in an optical network. The key challenge in designing a scheduling algorithm lies in solving a combinatorial optimization problem under very stringent distributed constraints. Specifically, given R random variables x1,... , xR taking integer values, each variable is required to find its assignment so that collectively they maximize SigmarWrxr subject to some linear constraints that Ax les C. In doing so, each variable can only avail of two pieces of information (and nothing else): one, its own weight Wr, two, given its current values (and the values of other variables being unknown), can it increase it by +1 or not. As the main result of this paper, we present a randomized algorithm that solves this problem. Our algorithm builds upon classical theory of reversible networks. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first such algorithm for such a stringent distributed problem.
Assessment of current practice in the diagnosis and therapy of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Summary Background The consensus statement on the Diagnosis and Therapy of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) formulated by the American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) was published in 2000. Acceptance and implementation of these guidelines have not been assessed. We surveyed the fellows of the American College of Chest Physicians (FCCP) to establish current practice patterns regarding the diagnosis and therapy of IPF. Methods We electronically distributed a 32-item questionnaire to all 6443 pulmonary medicine board-certified Fellows of the American College of Chest Physicians. The response rate was 13%. Demographic characteristics were similar between respondents and non-respondents. Results Seventy-two percent of respondents were familiar with the ATS/ERS consensus statement and 63% found it clinically useful. However, a similar number of respondents indicated that an update is needed. Bronchoscopy and surgical lung biopsy are used infrequently. Forty-five percent of pulmonary physicians advocate providing only supportive care for patients outside of clinical trials. If pharmacological therapy is recommended, prednisone (either alone or in combination with azathioprine) or off-label agents are preferentially prescribed. Despite physician awareness (79%) of clinical trials, interested patients are not consistently referred (54%). A majority of respondents (61%) felt that lung transplantation represents the only effective therapy for IPF, and 86% refer their patients to lung transplant centers. Conclusions There is substantial variability among pulmonary physicians in the diagnosis and management of IPF. This may, in part, reflect the current lack of effective pharmacologic therapy. Updated practice guidelines are needed for the diagnosis and therapy of IPF.
Effects of the short-acting KOP-r antagonist [D-TRP]CJ-15,208 on cocaine self-administration, locomotor activity, and food intake in male C57/BL6 mice

Aims: Cocaine abuse remains an important public health issue. This study was designed to test how the short-acting KOP-r antagonist tetrapeptide [D-Trp]CJ-15,208 (cyclo[Phe-d-Pro-Phe-d-Trp]) affects cocaine self-administration (SA), cocaine-induced locomotor activity and food intake. Methods: (1) Male C57/BL6 mice acquired cocaine SA (0.5mg/kg/infusion, FR1) for 7 consecutive days. Half of the mice were injected with [D-Trp]CJ-15,208 (20mg/kg, s.c.) and half were injected with vehicle before cocaine SA daily for 7 days. (2) To determine the effect of [D-Trp]CJ-15,208 on cocaineinduced locomotor activity, mice were injected with either compound or vehicle before cocaine injection (15mg/kg, i.p.) and locomotor activities were recorded. (3) To assess the effect of [DTrp]CJ-15,208 on food intake, mice were injected with compound or vehicle and the amount of food consumed over a 2-h period was measured. Results: (1) Mice injected with [D-Trp]CJ-15,208 had attenuated cocaine SA compared to controls. (2) Mice pre-treated with [D-Trp]CJ-15,208 did not differ in their locomotor activity either before or after cocaine injection compared to controls. (3) Mice injected with [D-Trp]CJ-15,208 before food exposure did not differ in their food intake from controls. Conclusions: These studies show that [D-Trp]CJ-15,208 produced a decrease in daily cocaine SA in mice. This effect of [D-Trp]CJ-15,208was neither due to a decrease in cocaine-induced locomotor activity nor accompanied by decreases in food intake. These data support future studies of short-acting compounds with KOP-r antagonist effects as potential pharmacotherapeutic approaches against cocaine addiction. Financial support: NIH-NIDA 1R01DA029147-01A1 (YZ), NIHNIDA 1R01DA032928-01 (JA) and NIH-NIDA P60 DA05130 (MJK).
Integration of Direction Cues Is Invariant to the Temporal Gap between Them

Many decisions involve integration of evidence conferred by discrete cues over time. However, the neural mechanism of this integration is poorly understood. Several decision-making models suggest that integration of evidence is implemented by a dynamic system whose state evolves toward a stable point representing the decision outcome. The internal dynamics of such point attractor models render them sensitive to the temporal gaps between cues because their internal forces push the state forward once it is dislodged from the initial stable point. We asked whether human subjects are as sensitive to such temporal gaps. Subjects reported the net direction of stochastic random dot motion, which was presented in one or two brief observation windows (pulses). Pulse strength and interpulse interval varied randomly from trial to trial. We found that subjects' performance was largely invariant to the interpulse intervals up to at least 1 s. The findings question the implementation of the integration process via mechanisms that rely on autonomous changes of network state. The mechanism should be capable of freezing the state of the network at a variety of firing rate levels during temporal gaps between the cues, compatible with a line of stable attractor states.
ANALYSIS OF BIO(B) AND IMMUNO(I)-LH DURING PUBERTY: A LONGITUDINAL STUDY IN NORMAL BOYS

As part of a serial assessment of normal children throughout puberty, gonadotropins (B- and I-LH) were measured by sensitive RICT assay and RIA in 20 boys and related individually to chronologic (CA) and skeletal age (BA), stage of pubertal development and sex steroid levels. The boys were studied at 6-month intervals for 5 to 6 years. In overall data, B-LH and I-LH were highly correlated (r=.73,p<.001). In 52 samples during prepuberty, I-LH was detectable in 79%, but B-LH in only 27%(X2=28.13, p<.001). Time of initial detection of B-LH differed from I-LH in CA (11.5 vs 10.7,p<.02), BA (10.8 vs 9.9,p<.01) and in levels of testosterone (T) (17.8 vs 12.4,p<.04). A significant linear relationship existed between B-LH or I-LH and T in 70% of the boys. Fitting a quadratic model to these data significantly improved LH-T correlations, suggesting a plateau of LH after the early T rise. There was no significant relationship between B-LH or I-LH and E2 in 13 individual boys. In conclusion: (1) I-LH is detectable by sensitive RIA more commonly than B-LH by sensitive RICT in prepubertal boys; (2) I-LH was measurable at a younger CA and BA, and at a lower T than B-LH; this discordance affirms that which has recently been described in analysis of pulsatile LH secretion, but does not clarify the role of the early pubertal increment of T upon a changing B/I ratio; (3) The relationship between I-LH and/or B-LH and T seems best described by a quadratic equation.
Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar Geodesy

Satellite-based interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) provides a synoptic high spatial resolution perspective of Earth’s deforming surface, permitting one to view large areas quickly and efficiently. We review basic InSAR theory for geodetic applications and attempt to provide an overview of what processing and analysis schemes are currently used and a glimpse of what the future may hold. As part of this discussion, we present a biased view of what constitutes best practices for use of InSAR observations in geodetic modeling. Finally, we provide a basic primer on the ties between different mission design parameters and their relationship to the character of the resulting observations.
Empirical Evidence for the Use of Lithium and Anticonvulsants in Children with Psychiatric Disorders

Background: The use of psychotropic medications—in particular, mood stabilizers—in youths with psychiatric illness has grown. There are trends toward polypharmacy and the increased use of newer mood stabilizers in youths with psychiatric illness despite a paucity of studies examining the short- and long-term efficacy and safety of these agents in the pediatric population. Method: PubMed was used to identify peer-reviewed publications from the past 30 years (January 1975 to August 2005) studying lithium and anticonvulsants in youths with psychiatric illness. Results: Evidence supporting the use of lithium and valproate in the treatment of juvenile bipolar disorder and reactive aggression has grown. Evidence for the use of other anticonvulsants in youths with psychiatric illness is sparse. Side effects from lithium and anticonvulsants are typically mild to moderate. Data are accumulating in regard to the longer-term safety of lithium and DVPX in the juvenile psychiatric population. Although data in regard t...
18-Year-Old Woman With Fever, Abdominal Pain, and Elevated Liver Enzymes

An 18-year-old woman from rural Minnesota was admitted to the hospital after presenting to a local emergency department with a 3-day history of severe right upper quadrant abdominal pain and a 2-week history of headaches, fever, nausea, and vomiting. A review of systems was otherwise unrevealing. Her only medication was trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole for a recent urinary tract infection. She had no other notable medical history. She reported rare alcohol use 3 years previously and no recent use of over-the-counter medications or dietary supplements, smoking, illegal drug use, or sexual activity. Physical examination findings and vital signs were unremarkable aside from a temperature of 39.0°C and right upper quadrant tenderness without rebound or guarding. There was no hepatosplenomegaly or flank dullness.
Culture of deception

We examine the self-deceptive aspects of religion and nationalism. By embracing various religious or political ideals, regardless of their truth, our ancestors could have enhanced their confidence, solidified their social ties, and manipulated their reproductive rivals. This use of culture as one's extended phenotype may increase the spread of misinformation and create global webs of deception and self-deception.
The Great American Thing: Modern Art and National Identity, 1915-1935

ARTISTS AND WORKS FEATURED: Paul Rosenfeld, Port of New York, 1924 Alfred Stieglitz, Spiritual America, New York, 1924 Marcel Duchamp, Fountain, 1917 Gerald Murphy, Razor, 1924 Joseph Stella, New York Interpreted, 1920-22 Charles Demuth, I Saw the Figure 5 in Gold, 1928 Georgia O'Keeffe, Cow's Skull--Red, White and Blue, 1931 Charles Sheeler, HOME SWEET HOME, 1931 Stuart Davis, The Paris Bit, 1959
Another cause of surgical needle holder damage to surgical sutures

The sharp edges of the box lock of the needle holder can inadvertently damage the suture during instrument ties. Compression of a monofilament nylon suture between the sharp edges of the box lock of a surgical needle holder damages the suture, reducing its breaking strength. This adverse effect has been eliminated by one manufacturer whose needle holder box lock has rounded edges and sufficient space to permit passage of the suture.
Condensed-phase processes during combustion of solid gun propellants. I. Nitrate ester propellants

Abstract Burning grains of the nitrate ester gun propellants M9, M30, and JA2 were extinguished, and the burned surfaces examined microscopically and by infrared (IR) spectroscopy. Studies were carried out at pressures ranging from atmospheric (0.1 MPa to 2.0 MPa). Scanning electron microscopy examination of quenched samples burned at these low pressures indicates that the surface layers affected by combustion are only a few microns in thickness. Examination by photoacoustic Fourier-transform IR spectroscopy and by microreflectance Fourier-transform IR spectroscopy indicates that the main change in the IR spectra of these extinguished surfaces is the presence of a weak carbonyl absorption peak in the region near 1730 cm−1; this is consistent with the idea that a principal initial step is condensed-phase conversion of nitrate ester groupings to aldehyde or ketone groupings through loss of NO2 by N-O cleavage followed by loss of α-hydrogen. In agreement with the scanning electron microscopy results, depth-profiling (carried out by surface-abrasion and by cross-section examination) indicates that in these nitrate ester propellants only the top few microns have undergone chemical change.
Electron transfer triggered sulfoxide isomerization in ruthenium and osmium complexes

The background and achievements in the growing field of electron-transfer triggered sulfoxide isomerizations is reviewed. Starting with the original electrochemical investigations by Taube, followed by the seminal investigations by Deutsch and Meyer and concluding with the picosecond transient absorption measurements of the direct excited state S → O isomerization, this review highlights these important contributions to the field. The remarkable photochemistry exhibited by certain ruthenium sulfoxide complexes is contrasted with the more well-known medicinal chemistry of ruthenium-halo-sulfoxide complexes. This chemistry is also compared to the photochemistry of metal nitrosyl complexes.
A simulation vehicle for studying national policy formation in a less armed world

Persons responsible for the formulation and direction of national policy are costantly confronted with problems of predicting the future under unknown or unanticipated social and psychological conditions. Basic issues in the processes of negotiation behavior involve such questions as: If a particular course of action is adopted, how will the environmnt respond? Given the social pressures and human prejudices that are operative, what is feasible? Would some other course of action be more productive for the nation as a whole or for some particular interest groups? Here the authors present a simulation vehicle and supporting experiments to study problems of national policy planning and negotiation.
Construction of an ∼2 Mb contig in the region around 80 cM of Arabidopsis thaliana chromosome 2

Summary A method for construction of bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) contigs from a yeast artifical chromosome (YAC) physical map is described. An ∼2 Mb contig, consisting of two large BAC contigs linked by a small YAC, has been assembled in the region around 80 cM of Arabidopsis thaliana chromosome 2. Clones from this contig will facilitate gene isolation in the region and can be used directly as substrates for DNA sequencing.
Reverse Engineering Nature

Why is the sky blue? Why is grass green? What determines the color of human skin? Questions such as these are increasingly important in the development of the next generation algorithms for appearancemodeling in computer graphics. By closely simulating the natural world around us we can develop algorithms that are useful in areas not traditionally connected with computer graphics. An example could be the ability to predict the color of human skin in the presence of certain diseases. In this talk, I will describe some of our recentwork in simulating the appearance of materials such as human skin, milk, and ice. This includes new research for predicting the appearance of materials based on their molecular structure in order to answer the question: “what will it look like if I mix these molecules together”?
Division of labor in a dynamic environment: response by honeybees (Apis mellifera) to graded changes in colony pollen stores

A fundamental requirement of task regulation in social groups is that it must allow colony flexibility. We tested assumptions of three task regulation models for how honeybee colonies respond to graded changes in need for a specific task, pollen foraging. We gradually changed colony pollen stores and measured behavioral and genotypic changes in the foraging population. Colonies did not respond in a graded manner, but in six of seven cases showed a stepwise change in foraging activity as pollen storage levels moved beyond a set point. Changes in colony performance resulted from changes in recruitment of new foragers to pollen collection, rather than from changes in individual foraging effort. Where we were able to track genotypic variation, increases in pollen foraging were accompanied by a corresponding increase in the genotypic diversity of pollen foragers. Our data support previous findings that genotypic variation plays an important role in task regulation. However, the stepwise change in colony behavior suggests that colony foraging flexibility is best explained by an integrated model incorporating genotypic variation in task choice, but in which colony response is amplified by social interactions.
Engineering erythrocytes to be erythrosensors: First steps

Molecules can be loaded into mammalian erythrocytes through a reversible lysis pore that forms in the membrane when placed in hypotonic media, the result being resealed red cell ghosts. Many studies on the sidedness of transport processes have utilized this approach. In addition, red cell ghosts encapsulated with enzymes have been used in patients to treat specific enzyme deficiencies, particularly when the substrate can cross the red cell membrane. Our long-term goal is to put fluorescent sensors inside erythrocytes, return the loaded red cell ghosts to the animal or patient, and then monitor the fluorescence non-invasively to follow changes in plasma analyte concentration. In this paper, we present a novel dialysis method for making the red cell ghosts. In addition, we present a theoretical analysis showing that it is not necessary that every loaded red cell ghost has the same dye concentration. Finally we discuss the constraints on the optimal affinity for the sensor/analyte interaction.
Time trends in sport-caught Great Lakes fish consumption and serum polychlorinated biphenyl levels among Michigan Anglers, 1973-1993.

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) remain public health concerns because of their persistence in the environment and their potential health impact. We linked data from three mixed cross-sectional/longitudinal surveys of Michigan anglers conducted by the Michigan Department of Public Health in 1973−1974, 1979−1982, and 1989−1993 to examine the association between sport-caught fish consumption and serum PCBs. The reported weight of fish consumed declined over the three surveys (median 40, 38, and 31 lb/yr). Serum Aroclor 1260 levels were 2−3 times higher in fish-eaters than in nonfish-eaters in all three surveys in both men and women. In nonfish-eaters, serum PCB levels rose between 1973−1974 and 1979−1982 [adjusted change = 0.30 log(ppb), p = 0.01] and then declined between 1979−1982 and 1989−1993 [adjusted change = −0.16 log(ppb), p = 0.002]. Among fish-eaters, serum PCB levels also rose between 1973−1974 and 1979−1982 [adjusted change = 0.45 log(ppb), p < 0.001] but were unchanged between 1979−1982 and 198...
Distinguishing soil age and parent material effects on an Ultisol of north-central Wisconsin, USA

Abstract A red and brown sandy clay loam layer containing quartz and chert gravel overlying Cambrian sandstone outside the limits of the most recent Pleistocene glaciation in north-central Wisconsin, USA, was interpreted in the field as a thick, well-developed paleoargillic horizon. The degree of soil profile development at this site is strikingly different from that seen in nearby soils of known late-Wisconsinan to Holocene age, suggesting that the soil at the site could be pre-Wisconsinan or even pre-Quaternary. A thin surface mantle of loamy sand was interpreted as a younger deposit; similar sand fills common ice-wedge casts at the site. Interpretation of the sandy clay loam layer is complicated by the possibility that it may include sediments of the Cretaceous or Tertiary Windrow Formation, derived from deeply-weathered pre-Quaternary landscapes. Micromorphological studies demonstrate that the sandy clay loam layer contains abundant illuvial clay, with evidence of more than one illuviation episode. The loamy sand mantle and sand filling ice-wedge casts are similar mineralogically and contain easily-weatherable minerals, whereas the sand in the sandy clay loam layer has a highly restricted and resistant mineralogy similar to Windrow sediments. Many of the K-feldspar grains in the sandy clay loam layer are highly weathered. The soil is classified as an Ultisol, but smectite is abundant in the sandy clay loam clay fraction. The resistant sand mineralogy is possibly inherited from Windrow-like sediments, and cannot be used to infer intense weathering in situ. On the other hand, field relationships clearly indicate that the sandy clay loam argillic horizon largely formed before the permafrost episode represented by the ice-wedge casts. This evidence, together with greater solum thickness and extent of clay illuviation than nearby soils of late-Wisconsinan to Holocene age, indicate that at least one phase of pedogenesis at this site was pre-Wisconsinan.
Perspectives on the synthesis of plant-wide control structures

The synthesis of plant-wide control structures has resurfaced as the most important design problem in process control. In this paper we provide a comparative analysis of various approaches, with an emphasis on how well they address the inherent theoretical and practical issues associated with the design of such control systems. Starting with a formal statement of the problem, which corresponds to a multi-objective optimization problem, this paper argues that the central issue to be resolved is the translation of implicit operating objectives to sets of feedback-controlled variables. The principle of the Optimizing Feedback Control Structures is proposed as the formal medium for the identification of controlled variables. Furthermore, it is shown that the selection of the best sets of input (manipulated) and output (measured) variables for the formation of the controllers' structures is governed by classical control-theoretical aspects, such as; open-loop gains, model uncertainty, and nonminimum-phase process characteristics. Hierarchical viewing of a plant is proposed as an effective mechanism to contain the complexities of the problem by streamlining the (i) specification of control objectives at different time-scales, (ii) modeling needs and model uncertainties, (iii) selection of measured and manipulated variables, and (iv) formation of the control structures.
POSTHARVEST QUALITY OF HARDY KIWIFRUIT (ACTINIDIA ARGUTA ANANASNAYA) ASSOCIATED WITH PACKAGING AND STORAGE CONDITIONS

Abstract Limited information exists regarding the ripening physiology of hardy kiwifruit (Actinidia arguta (Siebold & Zucc.) Planch. ex Miq) or the ideal packaging and storage conditions for optimum quality and storage life. In this study, the physicochemical properties (total soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH, firmness, color, weight loss, and respiration) of hardy kiwifruit cv. Ananasnaya were monitored at harvest and during storage from 2003 to 2005. Fruit were packaged in low- or high-vent clamshell containers and stored under room (22 ± 1 °C, 45% RH) or refrigerated (2 °C, 88% RH) conditions. Calcium caseinate, chitosan, PrimaFresh® 50-V, and Semperfresh™ edible coatings were investigated for their potential to enhance the quality and extend the storage life of the fruit. Semperfresh™-coated and uncoated fruit were evaluated by a sensory consumer panel using a hedonic scale in the third season. Low-vent packaging reduced weight loss. Refrigerated storage delayed ripening and extended storage life of fresh fruit compared to un-refrigerated fruit to 7–10 weeks depending on the specific packaging and other storage conditions. Coatings provided an attractive sheen to the fruit surface and did not impair ripening. The consumer test indicated that both coated and uncoated fruit were well liked. These results provide important information regarding the ripening physiology of ‘Ananasnaya’ hardy kiwifruit and indicate that edible coatings may be an alternative to costly low-vent packaging for reducing moisture loss and extending storage life of fresh fruit.
The noncritical binodal at a critical endpoint

Abstract We determine the shape of the noncritical binodal at a critical endpoint, from a geometrical point of view. The result is a departure from linearity led by a 4 3 power.
Tractability of the Helmholtz equation with non-homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions: The relation to the L2-approximation

We want to compute a worst case @e-approximation to the solution of the Helmholtz equation [email protected]+qu=f over the unit d-cube I^d, subject to Neumann boundary conditions @?"@nu=g on @?I^d. We measure error in the H^1(I^d)-norm. Let card(@e,d) denote the minimal number of evaluations of f, g, and q needed to compute an absolute or normalized @e-approximation, assuming that f, g, and q vary over balls of weighted reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces. This problem is said to be weakly tractable if card(@e,d) grows subexponentially in @e^-^1 and d. It is said to be polynomially tractable if card(@e,d) is polynomial in @e^-^1 and d, and strongly polynomially tractable if this polynomial is independent of d. We have previously studied tractability for the homogeneous version g=0 of this problem. In this paper, we investigate the tractability of the non-homogeneous problem, with general g. Using new perturbation estimates having explicit constants, we are able to relate the tractability of this problem to that of the L"2(I^d)-approximation problem. First, suppose that we use product weights, in which the role of any variable is moderated by its particular weight. We then find that if the sum of the weights is sublinearly bounded, then the problem is weakly tractable; moreover, this condition is more or less necessary. We then show that the problem is polynomially tractable if the sum of the weights is logarithmically or uniformly bounded, and we estimate the exponents of tractability for these two cases. Next, we turn to finite-order weights of fixed order @w, in which a d-variate function can be decomposed as a sum, each term depending on at most @w variables. We show that the problem is always polynomially tractable for finite-order weights, and we give estimates for the exponents of tractability. Since our results so far have established nothing stronger than polynomial tractability, we look more closely at whether strong polynomial tractability is possible. We show that our problem is never strongly polynomially tractable for the absolute error criterion. Moreover, we believe that the same is true for the normalized error criterion, but we have been able to prove this lack of strong tractability only when certain conditions hold on the weights. Finally, we use the Korobov and min kernels, along with product weights, to illustrate our results.
Substituent Effects in the Reaction of OH Radicals with Aromatics: Toluene

The relative rates for addition of ·OH radical to toluene at its ortho, meta, and para sites have been shown to be in the ratios of 0.84:0.41:1. These ratios provide a quantitative basis for consid...
Further observations of 8-μm polar brightenings of Jupiter

North-to-south scans of Jupiter at 7.8-micron wavelength in early 1981 confirm polar brightening events that correlate with LCM (III), such that a polar limb is bright when the corresponding magnetic pole is tilted earthward. The correlation with magnetic features of the planet suggests that the energy source for the brightenings is magnetospheric particles incident upon the polar regions of the atmosphere. The northern polar events are more prominent and more regular than the southern ones. The polar emission may be indirectly related to the ultraviolet absorber observed near the poles by Voyager 2.
Effects of 5-hydroxymethyl-2'-deoxyuridine and 3-aminobenzamide on chromosome aberrations in cultured human lymphocytes.

Abstract Effects of 5-hydroxymethyl-2′-deoxyuridine (HmdUrd, a thymidine analog) and 3-aminobenzamide (3AB) on chromosome aberrations in cultured human lymphocytes were studied. The results show that HmdUrd is an effective clastogen in human peripheral lymphocytes. When cells were treated with HmdUrd and 3AB, a synergistic effect on chromatid gaps, breaks and exchanges was found. These findings support the hypotheses that 5-hydroxymethyluracil (HmuRa) residues in DNA are formed and then removed by the action of 5-HmUra-DNA glycosylase (Teeber et al., 1984) and that 3AB interferes with the completion of DNA repair following HmUra excision.
Planning surface coal mining operations with a minicomputer

Abstract Critical shortages of energy producing resources have accelerated the development of known reserves as well as intense concern over the resulting environmental responses such developments cause. As a result federal, state and private organizations have increased research efforts in these areas. This paper describes a research project related to the development of a computerized planning and control system for surface coal mining operations. The system centers around a minicomputer with a graphics terminal and other peripherals. Supported by a large body of research in both the production and environmental areas, the system allows the mine planner and land manager to simulate and view mining sites prior to mining, design a mine plan, and view the area during and after mining operations. Output also includes an evaluation of trade-offs between environmental and productivity concerns.
The Eco-Restaurant of the Future: A Case Study

With today’s focus on natural resources and energy, restaurants are seeking new ways to establish a sustainable strategy. This case study describes a new paradigm for an entrepreneurial incubator and educational model. The new eco-restaurant concept facilitates recycling waste, oil, and paper and using less resources and energy. Is this the right strategy for the future?
On the speed of cocaine

. He is correct to suggest that the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system is heterogeneous and that the segments that are responsive to the unconditioned and conditioned effects of cocaine seem to be different. As he and others 3 impulse flow. We have not ignored the indi- rect evidence from voltammetry studies; our article cites and discusses two of the four ref- erences indicated by Aragona, and we stand by our earlier comments on those papers (which apply equally to the others). Second, Aragona argues that the primary (unconditioned) rewarding effect of cocaine is mediated by cocaine-induced dopamine release, not dopamine uptake blockade. However, he does not offer an explanation for the fact that nomifensine, a selective dopa- mine uptake inhibitor that lacks the major side-effects of cocaine, has (like cocaine itself) rewarding effects when locally injected into the ventral striatum 10 . Dopamine uptake inhibitors that are injected locally in this dopamine ter- minal field are unlikely to influence dopamine impulse flow. He also neglects to mention the recent evidence that cocaine is not rewarding in mice that lack the dopamine transporter 11 . More importantly, Aragona offers no sug- gestion as to the mechanism that underlies the increased dopamine transients that he observes. Although similar transients are seen when dopamine autoreceptor func- tion is blocked, does that necessarily mean that the release events caused by cocaine involve increased impulse flow? Could they not result from presynaptic control of dopa- mine release by glutamatergic input from the thalamus, prefrontal cortex, amygdala or hippocampus? And is it not possible that, whereas exteroceptive cocaine cues activate only the core of the accumbens, interoceptive cocaine cues may activate its shell as well? The effects of cocaine methiodide — which shares the peripheral but not the central effects of rewarding cocaine — have yet to be studied in the cocaine-trained animals that show conditioned glutamate input to the VTA 7
OPTIMALITY CONDITIONS AND DUALITY MODELS FOR A CLASS OF NONSMOOTH CONTINUOUS-TIME GENERALIZED FRACTIONAL PROGRAMMING PROBLEMS

Abstract Both parametric and parameter-free stationary-point-type and saddle-point-type necessary and sufficient optimality conditions are established for a class of nonsmooth continuous-time generalized fractional programming problems with Volterra-type integral inequality and nonnegativity constraints. These optimality criteria are then utilized for constructing ten parametric and parameter-free Wolfe-type and Lagrangian-type dual problems and for proving weak, strong, and strict converse duality theorems. Furthermore, it is briefly pointed out how similar optimality and duality results can be obtained for two important special cases of the main problem containing arbitrary norms and square roots of positive semidefinite quadratic forms. All the results developed here are also applicable to continuous-time programming problems with fractional, discrete max, and conventional objective functions, which are special cases of the main problem studied in this paper.
The mineral chemistry of new titanates from the jagersfontein kimberlite, South Africa: Implications for metasomatism in the upper mantle

New members of the crichtonite mineral series are described in which K, Ba, Ca and REE are in significant concentrations (5 wt% oxides) filling the A formula position in AM21O38. These phases are chromium (16 wt% Cr2O3) titanates (58 wt% TiO2) enriched in ZrO2 (5 wt%) and constitute a mineral repository for refractory and large ion lithophile elements in the upper mantle. The mineral senes coexists with Mg-Cr-ilmenite, Nb-Cr-rutile, and Ca-Cr (NbZr) armalcolite that have equally unusual chemistries. Kimberlitic crichtonites are depleted in the intermediate lanthanides but highly enriched in LREE and HREE with chondrite normalized abundances of 103 to 105. Crichtonite, armalcolite, and Nb-Cr-rutile occupy a compositional range in TiO2 contents bridging the gap between ilmenite and rutile, two minerals having a widespread distribution in kimberlites and mantle-derived nodule suites. In common with other associations, and based on similarities in mineral chemistry, it is concluded that these minerals formed at P = 20–30 kb, 900–1100°C by reaction of peridotite with metasomatizing fluids. Kimberlitic crichtonite may be expressed as spinel + Cr-ferropseudobrookite, and armalcolite is equivalent to Cr-geikielite + rutile in the system (FeMg)-TiO2-Cr2O3. This system contains a number of Cr-Ti compounds not found as minerals but it is proposed that the ubiquitous occurrence of ilmenite intergrowths in kimberlitic rutile results from decomposition of high pressure αPbO2-type crystallographic shear structures. The new minerals have exotic chemistries and the high K-affinities broaden the scope for the origin of alkalic rocks, the generation of highly potassic magmas in the upper mantle, and suggest that alkali metasomatism may be pervasive.
A practical one-semester “VLSI design” course for computer science (and other) majors

This paper describes the development and content of a "VLSI Design" course. We had two main goals for the course: to develop a one-semester course for computer science (and other) majors, and to give the students practical experience with real industrial tools. To meet those goals, we provided only enough material on logic design and IC operation to orient the students, focused on FPLD-based design, and used high-quality design tools. We also found a wealth of free material available on the web, including course information, entire textbooks, and extensive technical data.
Determination of chloride ion diffusion coefficients for zinc dissolution in a low temperature molten salt

Abstract The transport properties and stoichiometry of the zinc dissolution process in mixtures of aluminum chloride and 1-methyl-3-ethylimidazolium chloride were studied. A new mass transfer correlation for rotating cylinder electrodes was found for these high Schmidt number electrolytes. Two limiting current regions were observed during the dissolution process which corresponded to a coordination number of four at low overpotentials and a coordination number of three at high overpotentials. The quantity D μ/ T was calculated to be 3.5 × 10 −10 , which corresponds to a chloride ion radius of 2.1 × 10 −8 cm.
Memory Keepers: A Narrative Study on Siblings Never Known

Drawing on literature relevant to the impact of sibling death, the authors examined the invisible loss of siblings never known. This article presents findings of a phenomenological study of 15 adult siblings who “storied” the psychological presence and power of a deceased infant sibling never known but who acted as memory keepers for their unknown sibling. Transcriptions of the 15 interviews were analyzed usng NVivo software to support development of thematic categories. The initial 29 subthemes were collapsed into 3 overarching themes of personal loss/unacknowledged loss, continuing bonds/memory keeping, and sense-making. The participants' experiences reflect support for unaddressed and unacknowledged loss for the phenomenon of loss of an unknown sibling. The retrospective narratives echo their perceived roles as memory keepers of their unknown siblings. For many participants, the research process itself was the first recognition of a sense of loss.
A Flexible Front-End Signal Processor for High-Speed Image Sensor Readout

Abstract The High-Speed Image Pre-Processor with Oversampling (HIPPO) is a prototype image sensor readout integrated circuit designed for both high performance and enhanced flexibility. HIPPO's initial target application is the instrumentation of bufferless, column-parallel, soft x-ray Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) image sensors operating at column rates up to 10 MHz, enabling 10,000 frames-per-second (fps) video rates. HIPPO's architecture is flexible and allows design tradeoffs between speed, accuracy, and area. This architectural flexibility will enable the fast development of related image sensor and particle detector readout ICs based on HIPPO technology. HIPPO contains 16 channels, each comprising a charge amplifier, a dual-slope correlated double sampler, a sample-and-hold, a multiplexed 12b, 80 MS/s pipelined ADC (one ADC for every 4 channels), and a 480 Mb/s output serializer. HIPPO achieves 35 e-read noise at 10,000 fps for a 1 Mpixel sensor, improving to 24 e-at 5000 fps. HIPPO's charge-domain input obviates the source follower amplifier used in most CCDs and enables the implementation of a fully column-parallel CCD architecture. HIPPO was specifically designed to be flexible in both the sequencing of its operations and in its ability to accommodate input rates potentially varying over an order of magnitude.
Abstract 4589: Gamma-tocopherol and mixed tocopherols inhibit AOM-induced colon carcinogenesis that was promoted by moderate but not severe colon inflammation caused by dextran sodium sulfate

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Our previous studies indicate that specific forms of vitamin E such as gamma-tocopherol (gT), the predominant form of vitamin E in US diets, have anti-inflammatory activities by inhibition of proinflammatory eicosanoids including prostaglandin E2 and leucotriene B4. These eicosanoids are known to promote carcinogenesis of different types of cancer including colon cancer. We therefore hypothesize that gT may be an effective anticancer agent against colon cancer. In male BALC mice, we examined potential effect of gT and mixed tocopherols at 1000mg/kg diet on AOM induced colon carcinogenesis which was promoted by 3-cycle DSS (dextrane sodium sulfate, 1.5%, 2.5% and 2%). The results show that two months after carcinogenesis was induced, all the AOM-DSS mice developed tumors located in the distal colon with ∼12 tumors per mouse. Supplementation of gT or gT-rich mixed tocopherols had no significant effects on tumor incidence or tumor size. In a subsequent study, potential effect of gT and gT rich mixed tocopherols were examined in the AOM induced colon cancer that was promoted by moderate colon inflammation caused by one-cycle 1.5% DSS. GT supplementation, although had no effects on total tumor incidence, significantly (P 2 mm2) by 60%. Mixed tocopherols showed strong tendency in attenuation of tumor development (50%, P = 0.06). Interestingly, gT but not mixed tocopherols significantly attenuated DSS-induced colon inflammation. These results indicate that gT appears to have anticancer activities via anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4589. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-4589