cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Paleointensity Record From the 2.7 Ga Stillwater Complex, Montana

[1] The record of geomagnetic intensity captured in the 2.7 Ga Stillwater Complex (Montana, USA) provides a statistical description of the Archean geodynamo. We present results of modified Thellier paleointensity experiments on 441 core specimens, 114 of which pass strict reliability criteria. The specimens are from 53 sites spanning most of the Banded Series rocks in the Stillwater Complex. On the basis of thermochronologic and petrologic evidence, we interpret the highest temperature component of remanence to be a late Archean thermoremanence, though the possibility remains that it is a thermochemical remanence. Thermal models indicate that the highest temperature magnetization component at each of the sites averages ∼20–200 ka of geomagnetic secular variation. The suite of sites as distributed through the Banded Series samples a roughly a 1 Ma time interval. The average of the most reliable paleointensity measurements, uncorrected for the effects of anisotropy or cooling rate, is 38.2 ± 11.3 μT (1σ). Remanence anisotropy, cooling rate, and the nonlinear relationship between applied field and thermoremanence have a significant effect on paleointensity results; a corrected average of 30.6 ± 8.8 μT is likely a more appropriate value. Earth's average dipole moment during the late Archean (5.05 ± 1.46 × 1022 Am2, λpmag = 44.5°) was well within the range of estimates from Phanerozoic rocks. The distribution of site-mean paleointensities around the mean is consistent with that expected from slow cooling over timescales expected from thermal models and with secular variation comparable to that of the Phanerozoic field.
14xx nm DFB InGaAsP/InP pump lasers with 500 mW CW output power for WDM combining

In conclusion, we have demonstrated 14xx nm DFB pump InGaAsP/InP ridge waveguide lasers with a record CW chip power level of 500 mW and ex-fiber or module power of 300 mW. Narrow emission line with very weak current/temperature peak position dependence allows us to use conventional wavelength multiplexing techniques to combine output of DFB pumps with different wavelengths into one SM fiber. Outputs from two 14xx nm DFB lasers with wavelengths differing by 16 nm have been combined in one SM fiber with efficiencies close to 90%, thereby producing a total 14xx nm power level of 500 mW.
Effects of T-Tabs and Large Deflections in Double Cantilever Beam Specimen Tests

A simple strength of materials analysis was developed for a double-cantilever beam (DCB) specimen to account for geometric nonlinearity effects due to large deflections and T-tabs. A new DCB data analysis procedure was developed to include the effects of these nonlinearities. The results of the analysis were evaluated by DCB tests performed for materials having a wide range of toughnesses. The materials used in the present study were T300/5208, IM7/8551-7, and AS4/PEEK. Based on the present analysis, for a typical deflection/crack length ratio of 0.3 (for AS4/PEEK), T-tabs and large deflections cause a 15 and 3 percent error, respectively, in the computer Mode I strain energy release rate. Design guidelines for DCB specimen thickness and T-tab height were also developed in order to keep errors due to these nonlinearities within 2 percent. Based on the test results, for both hinged and tabbed specimens, the effects of large deflection on the Mode I fracture toughness (G sub Ic) were almost negligible (less than 1 percent) in the case of T300/5208 and IM7/8551-7; however, AS4/PEEK showed a 2 to 3 percent effect. The effects of T-tabs G sub Ic were more significant for all the materials with T300/5208 showing a 5 percent error, IM7/8551-7 a 15 percent error, and, AS4/PEEK a 20 percent error.
Solving an inverse partial differential equation for a two dimensional heat conduction problem with oscillating boundary conditions using an artificial immune system

Increases in computing power have brought a renewed interest in solving inverse initial-value, boundary-value (inverse IVBV) problems, and in the development of robust, computationally efficient methods suitable for their solution. Inverse IVBV problems are prominent in science and engineering problems governed by partial differential equations where often an effect is measured and the cause is not known. In these situations scientists and engineers typically observe the response of a system and desire to know the particulars of the system that elicited such a response. In this paper, an artificial immune system (AIS) is used to monitor a physical system, to identify the need for solving an inverse IVBV problem within that system, and to solve said problem. Specifically, an AIS is used to determine the heat conducting properties of a material that elicits a measured temperature distribution response when subjected to time-varying boundary temperatures. Results indicate that the AIS provides an effective mechanism for solving this particular inverse IVBV problem.
Individual and neighborhood predictors of mortality among HIV-positive Latinos with history of injection drug use, Florida, 2000-2011.

Background The objectives are to examine disparities in all-cause mortality risk among HIV-positive Latinos with injection drug use (IDU) history, and to identify individual- and neighborhood-level predictors.
Therapy of Cervical Chlamydial Infection

Abstract The treatment of cervicalChlamydia trachomatisinfection in nonpregnant women was evaluated in a double-blind randomized study. Objective criteria were used to assess the response of cervic...
The cytoskeleton in neurodegenerative diseases

Abundant abnormal aggregates of cytoskeletal proteins are neuropathological signatures of many neurodegenerative diseases that are broadly classified by filamentous aggregates of neuronal intermediate filament (IF) proteins, or by inclusions containing the microtubule-associated protein (MAP) tau. The discovery of mutations in neuronal IF and tau genes firmly establishes the importance of neuronal IF proteins and tau in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Multiple IF gene mutations are pathogenic for Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)--in addition to those in the copper/zinc superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) gene. Tau gene mutations are pathogenic for frontotemporal dementia with parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17), and tau polymorphisms are genetic risk factors for sporadic progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration (CBD). Thus, IF and tau abnormalities are linked directly to the aetiology and pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. In vitro and transgenic animal models are being used to demonstrate that different mutations impair protein function, promote tau fibrilization, or perturb tau gene splicing, leading to aberrant and distinct tau aggregates. For recognition of these disorders at neuropathological examination, immunohistochemistry is needed, and this may be combined with biochemistry and molecular genetics to properly determine the nosology of a particular case. As reviewed here, the identification of molecular genetic defects and biochemical alterations in cytoskeletal proteins of human neurodegenerative diseases has facilitated experimental studies and will promote the development of assays of molecules which inhibit abnormal neuronal IF and tau protein inclusions.
Conformational Plasticity in IL-2 Is Captured Via in Silico Fragment-Based Drug Design Using SILCS Fragmaps

The IL-2 protein is an experimentally well-characterized example of conformational plasticity in a protein-protein binding interface. Whereas the original crystal structure of the IL-2 protein lacked a particular binding pocket at the interface, subsequent structures of the protein complexed with small-molecule inhibitors have shown the creation of a hydrophobic pocket in order to accommodate inhibitor binding poses. A new in silico fragment-based drug design methodology (SILCS FragMaps) was applied to the original IL-2 crystal structure and has been found to recapitulate this pocket observed in the complexes. Furthermore, the pocket is seen to have an affinity for hydrophobic fragments, consistent with experimental inhibitor binding poses. As the SILCS FragMaps methodology is based on explicit-water all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, the methodology is able to capture both the conformational plasticity in the IL-2 surface required for pocket formation as well as the selective partitioning of small hydrophobic fragments into the pocket from bulk solution.
Long term behavior of silicon germanium thermoelectric generators

Results of tests of the long term performance of SiGe radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTG) are presented. Three modules were monitored for 17,000-32,300 hr at hot junction temperatures of 1,085, 1,055, and 1,000 C; coating the unicouples with a 12,000 A thick layer of Si3N4 protected the modules from Si sublimation. Output degraded less than 0.3-0.4%/1,000 hr over the testing period. Life tests on a multihundredwatt (MHW) SiGe generator with 312 couples at a hot shoe temperature of 1,040 C dealt with power of 150 W at 30 V, with 0.5%/1,000 hr performance degradation. Si deposition on the insulation was found to enhance electrical conductance until a saturation point was reached. Disassembly of a test module after 16,750 hr revealed a Mo build-up, SiN4 coating deterioration, and Ti diffustion from the hot shoe to cooler regions of the junction. The presence of an Al2O3 insulator was recognized as preventing coating loss. Performance records from the Voyager and Les-8 satellites' RTG's are compared and show similar, 0.25%/1,000 hr degradation rates; RTG storage is judged to be feasible and the tests lead to projections of a 600,000 hr lifetime for a SiGe RTG.
The relevance of the U.S. experience to the reforms in the British National Health Service: the case of General Practitioner Fund Holding.

This article presents a discussion of the relevance of the U.S. experience in general, and health maintenance organizations in particular, to the reforms advocated by the current Conservative gover...
Urinary hCG patterns during the week following implantation

Background Human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) is used to monitor pregnancy status. Yet the pattern of hCG excretion in the first week following implantation has not been adequately described. Therefore the aim of this study was to describe the average profile of hCG and its variability during the 7 days following estimated implantation in a population of naturally conceived pregnancies. Methods We measured daily hCG concentrations in first-morning urine for 142 clinical pregnancies from women with no known fertility problems. Mixed-effects regression models were used to estimate the hCG trajectory and its variability in relation to pregnancy outcomes. Results hCG rose 3-fold between the day of detection and the next day (95% CI = 2.7-3.4). The relative rate of rise decreased thereafter, reaching 1.6-fold (95% CI = 1.5-1.8) between days 6 and 7. HCG levels followed a log-quadratic trajectory, and the patterns of rise were unrelated to number of fetuses, risk of spontaneous abortion or sex of the baby. Later implantations (after 10 luteal days) produced slower rates of increase. Conclusions Although mean hCG follows a log-quadratic trajectory during the first week of detectability, there is high variability across pregnancies. Later implantation may reflect characteristics of the uterus or conceptus that slow hCG production.
Second row transition metal sulfides for the hydrotreatment of coal-derived naphtha I. Catalyst preparation, characterization and comparison of rate of simultaneous removal of total sulfur, nitrogen and oxygen

Abstract Naphtha derived from an Illinois No. 6 coal contains appreciable quantities of sulfur-, nitrogen- and oxygen-containing compounds. The hydrotreatment of this naphtha has been evaluated over unsupported transition metal sulfide catalysts of the second row in the Periodic Table. The catalysts were prepared by a room temperature precipitation reaction. Surface areas, crystalline phase and particle size distributions were determined by Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. A comparison of average particle sizes calculated from these three techniques has enabled the understanding of the morphology of the transition metal sulfides. The catalysts exhibit a so-called volcano plot for the HDS of dibenzothiophene. Similar so-called volcano plots are also exhibited for the simultaneous hydrodesulfurization (HDS), hydrodenitrogenation (HDN) and the hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of the coal-derived naphtha containing a mixture of heteroatoms. The order of reactivity of the transition metal catalysts is the same for all three of the processes. Ruthenium sulfide (RuS 2 ) is the most active catalyst for HDS, HDN and HDO of the coal-derived naphtha.
Generation of Nkx2.2:lacZ mice using recombination-mediated cassette exchange technology.

Nkx2.2 encodes a homeodomain transcription factor required for the correct specification and/or differentiation of cells in the pancreas, intestine, and central nervous system (CNS). To follow the fate of cells deleted for Nkx2.2 within these tissues, we generated Nkx2.2:lacZ knockin mice using a recombination-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) approach. Expression analysis of lacZ and/or β-galactosidase in Nkx2.2lacZ/+ heterozygote embryos and adults demonstrates that lacZ faithfully recapitulates endogenous Nkx2.2 expression. Furthermore, the Nkx2.2lacZ/lacZ homozygous embryos display phenotypes indistinguishable from the previously characterized Nkx2.2−/− strain. LacZ expression analyses in the Nkx2.2lacZ/lacZ homozygous embryos indicate that Nkx2.2-expressing progenitor cells within the pancreas are generated in their normal numbers and are not mislocalized within the pancreatic ductal epithelium or developing islets. In the CNS of Nkx2.2lacZ/lacZ embryos, LacZ-expressing cells within the ventral P3 progenitor domain display different migration properties depending on the developmental stage and their respective differentiation potential. genesis 50:612–624, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vector salivation and parasite transmission

Saliva of blood-sucking arthropods contains substances that counteract the host's hemostatic and inflammatory reactions, allowing the arthropod to locate blood and keep it flowing during the blood meal. Parasites may manipulate this system in order to achieve increased transmission, both to vertebrate and to invertebrate hosts. Additionally, salivary pharmacological substances may locally immunosupress the delivery site, allowing initial colonization of the vertebrate host by the parasite.
Primary aberrations of meniscus Fresnel lenses

Mathematical expressions for the primary aberrations of a thin, meniscus Fresnel lens (grooved on both surfaces) are derived and compared to the corresponding expressions for the case of a thin, flat Fresnel lens. It is shown that the only aberrations that differ are spherical aberration and line coma, both of which are independent of stop position. Moreover, a meniscus Fresnel lens has an additional degree of freedom available for aberration correction. Some applications of the theory are discussed.
Debating the Euro Media Agenda-Setting in a Cross-National Environment

Coverage of the introduction of the Euro currency was analyzed in the leading news publications in the UK and Germany. Specifically, it was examined whether (1) coverage of the same cross-national ...
Botulinum toxin and pneumatic dilation in the treatment of achalasia

Abstract Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder characterized by complete absence of peristalsis in the esophageal smooth muscle and a functional esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction. Treatment is directed at improving this outflow obstruction with the goal of improving symptoms in an incurable disease. Multiple treatment options are available to meet this goal. Long-term success can be achieved with effective use of endoscopic pneumatic dilation. In the appropriate patient, botulinum toxin injection can afford short-term relief. This review addresses the use of and techniques for performing these therapies as treatment for achalasia.
Fabrication and characterization of novel hybrid organic/inorganic microparticles to apply in bone regeneration.

The aim of this study was to fabricate and characterize the novel hybrid organic/inorganic microparticles (MPs) to apply in bone regeneration. These hybrid MPs were fabricated using a scale-up method we have developed to increase the yield of chitosan (CS) MPs. The MPs were based on the CS and consist of inorganic components such as dibasic calcium phosphate (CaHPO4) or calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Tripolyphosphate (TPP) has been used as a cross-linking agent to form cross-links between the amine groups in CS and phosphate groups in TPP. Four types of hybrid MPs were fabricated: CS; CS-10%CaHPO4; CS-20%CaHPO4; CS-10% CaCO3. SEM images revealed that all types of MPs were approximately spherical in shape and most of them were with a diameter range of 30–60 μm. XRD reveals the evidence of having CaHPO4 or CaCO3 in the CS-10%CaHPO4, CS-20%CaHPO4, or CS-10%CaCO3 MPs, respectively. All types of MPs have shown the existence of cross-links according to FTIR. We have studied the mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) attachment on the surfaces of all types of MPs compared to control wells at 4, 8, 25, and 48 h. The attached MSCs on all types of MPs were increased more than two-fold at 48 h compared with that of 4 h. These hybrid MPs have a great potential to apply as a bone-void filler or bone tissue engineering scaffold to treat the bone defects. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2010
Cardiovascular Responses in Experimentally Induced Alterations of Affect

Although alterations in emotional arousal have long been associated with changes in cardiovascular dynamics, the precise quantitative relationship has not been fully detailed. Independent assessment of the emotional change was felt to be a necessary component of a quantitatively oriented study. The variously described responses for "anxiety" and "anger" might better be re-explored in such a manner. The emotional arousal was experimentally produced in the laboratory. Measures of pulse, arterial blood pressure, and cardiac output were conducted both before and during the change in affect evoked by the laboratory stimulus.
Top-10 risks in real-client software engineering class projects

Risk identification, management, and mitigation are essential to the success of any software development projects. At the University of Southern California (USC), CSCI577ab is a graduate level software engineering course sequence that teaches the best software engineering practices, and allows students to apply the learned knowledge in developing real-client projects. One of the main focuses throughout the software development life cycle is the risk analysis. Students have to perform weekly risk identification and prepare for risk mitigation. This presentation will discuss analysis results of the top-10 risks from various perspectives such as comparison of risk patterns between development-based projects and COTS-based projects, high score teams and low score teams, and a comparison between risk exposure and risk occurrence.
Forebrain endothelium expresses GLUT4, the insulin-responsive glucose transporter

Abstract The presence of GLUT4, the insulin-responsive glucose transporter, in microvascular endothelium and the responsiveness of glucose transport at the blood-brain barrier to insulin have been matters of controversy. To address these issues, we examined GLUT4 mRNA and protein expression in isolated brain microvessels and in cultured calf vascular cells derived from brain microvessels and aorta. We report here that GLUT4 mRNA can be detected in rat forebrain and its microvasculature using high stringency hybridization of poly(A)+ RNA isolated from these sources. This mRNA is identical to that found in adipose cells from rat. Immunoblot analysis of isolated brain microvessels reveals that GLUT4 protein is also present. Peptide preadsorption studies and absence of our antibody reaction to human red cells suggest these findings are specific. Immunohistochemical staining of cultured calf vascular cells reveals that GLUT4 is expressed in brain endothelial cells but not pericytes, nor in aortic endothelium or smooth muscle cells. The sensitivity of the methods required to detect GLUT4 in brain and comparison to its abundance in low density microsomes from rat adipose cells indicate that GLUT4 is expressed in relatively low abundance in brain microvascular endothelium. No significant differences are observed in steady state levels of GLUT4 mRNA in brain from streptozotocin diabetic compared to control rats. This last finding supports the concept of tissue-specific regulation of GLUT4. We conclude that brain microvascular endothelium specifically expresses GLUT4 while other vascular cells do not.
Reviving Lolita?: A Media Literacy Examination of Sexual Portrayals of Girls in Fashion Advertising

Lolita: A name that conjures up images of preadolescent allure and perversion. The Lolita look has become a main stay not only of movies, books, and magazines but also of advertising, particularly ...
Descending control of turning behavior in the cockroach, Blaberus discoidalis

Legged locomotion has evolved as the most effective form of movement through unpredictable and tortuous environments. Upon encountering an obstacle, an animal must evaluate the object with its sense organs then use the information it acquires to direct appropriate transitional behaviors, such as turning. Previous studies using genetic and surgical lesions implicate the central body complex (CBC) in control of such transitional behaviors of various insects. In this study, lesions of the CBC and surrounding brain regions were used to examine the effects of damage on turning in free-moving and tethered cockroaches. Lesions were performed either as sagittal incisions or by inserting small pieces of foil into regions of the brain. Locomotor behaviors of intact and lesioned animals were compared using high speed video and kinematic analysis. The lesions locations were determined through histological methods. Sagittal lesions to the CBC often result in continuous or incorrect turns. Foil lesions in the CBC also increase the probability that individuals will show turning deficits. The location and degree of the lesion had a strong effect on the animal's ability to turn. These data strongly suggest that the CBC mediates the effects of head sense organs that produce changes in the direction of walking.
Tracking targets with quality in wireless sensor networks

Tracking of moving targets has attracted more and more attention due to its importance in utilizing sensor networks for surveillance. In this paper, we consider the issue of how to track mobile targets with certain level of quality of monitoring (QoM), while conserving power. We address the target tracking problem by taking into account of both the coverage and the QoM. In particular, QoM ensures that the probability of reporting inaccurate monitoring information (such as false alarm or target miss) should be as small as possible, even in the presence of noises and signal attenuation. We also analytically whether or not the detection/observation made by a single sensor suffices to tracking the target in a reasonably populated sensor network. Our finding gives a confirmative answer and challenges the long-held paradigm that high tracking quality (low tracking error) necessarily requires high power consumption. To rigorously analyze the impact of target movement on QoM, we derive both lower and upper bounds on the number of sensors (called duty sensors) required to keep track of a moving target. Based on the analysis, we have devised a cooperative, relay-area-based scheme that determines which sensor should become the next duty sensor when the target is moving. The simulation study indicates that the number of duty sensor required in the proposed scheme is, in the worst case, approximately 1.2 times larger than the lower bound. It also indicates that a trade-off exists among QoM, the number of duty sensors required, and the load balance
Pattern formation in catalytic reactors: The role of fluid mixing

Fluid-mediated interaction between catalyst particles alone is shown to yield several interesting and significant phenomena in a catalytic reactor that have been generally attributed in the past to direct interaction between particles. Thus, collaborative interaction between particles and the fluid may enhance or abate steady-state multiplicity, and reverse stability behavior. From the simple setting of a population of particles in a well-mixed CSTR, it is shown that the catalyst phase in a catalytic reactor is susceptible to very fine pattern formation in the face of steady-state multiplicity in single particles, which negates the usual assumption that particles exposed to a given fluid have identical states. In a reactor such variability in behavior must be accompanied by a corresponding variability in conversion and selectivity (in multireaction systems) and may have strong implications for reactor control strategies.
LWR development in the USA

Abstract The U.S. Nuclear Power Industry is developing improved reactor systems to be prepared for the expected need of new base load electric generating capacity in the 1990s. The approach being taken is to build upon the large base of existing light water reactor technology, making evolutionary improvements, and finding innovative ways to simplify, shorten construction time, and reduce cost. The U.S. reactor manufacturers, working in collaboration with Japanese utilities, are developing 1300 MWe improved designs. This paper reviews the EPRI ALWR Program which is coordinated with these efforts by the reactor manufacturers. Emphasis is given to that portion of the EPRI Program dealing with conceptual design of smaller rated Advanced Simplified LWRs using passive system design to accomplish major simplification.
Predicting probabilities of pregnancy and multiple gestation from in vitro fertilization--a new model.

Abstract Objective: To develop a statistical model that adjusts for variation between patients and adequately predicts the observed distribution of pregnancies among singletons and multiple gestations of various orders. Methods: All in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles from the inception of the IVF program at Women and Infants’ Hospital on May 26, 1988, until December 31, 1993, were evaluated using logistic regression in selected subsets. Results: A new cycle-one specific model uses three different probabilities: P1, the probability of pregnancy (predicted by age and total embryo score); P2|P1, the conditional probability of finding a second implantation in those who had become pregnant with at least one (predicted by total embryo score); and P3|P2, the conditional probability of finding a third implantation in those who had become pregnant with at least two (with no significant predictors). This is the first model to use these three adjusted probabilities. Conclusion: P1 increases with increasing total embryo score but decreases with increasing age. P2|P1 increases with increasing total embryo score but does not depend on age. Embryo scoring is useful because the total embryo score is a better predictor of P1 and P2|P1 than the number of embryos alone. By using patient-specific information (age and total embryo score) and cycle-specific tables, an estimate of the probability of pregnancy and multiple gestation can be provided before embryo transfer.
On the fair coin tossing process

Let Ω = {1, 0} and for each integer n ≥ 1 let Ωn = Ω × Ω × … × Ω (n-tuple) and Ωnk = {(a1, a2, …, an)|(a1, a2, … , an) ϵ Ωn and Σi=1nai = k} for all k = 0,1,…,n. Let {Ym}m≥1 be a sequence of i.i.d. random variables such that P(Y1 = 0) = P(Y1 = 1) = 12. For each A in Ωn, let TA be the first occurrence time of A with respect to the stochastic process {Ym}m≥1. R. Chen and A.Zame (1979, J. Multivariate Anal. 9, 150–157) prove that if n ≥ 3, then for each element A in Ωn, there is an element B in Ωn such that the probability that TB is less than TA is greater than 12. This result is sharpened as follows: (I) for n ≥ 4 and 1 ≤ k ≤ n − 1, each element A in Ωnk, there is an element B also in Ωnk such that the probability that TB is less than TA is greater than 12; (II) for n ≥ 4 and 1 ≤ k ≤ n − 1, each element A = (a1, a2,…,an) in Ωnk, there is an element C also in Ωnk such that the probability that TA is less than TC is greater than 12 if n ≠ 2m or n = 2m but ai = ai + 1 for some 1 ≤ i ≤ n−1. These new results provide us with a better and deeper understanding of the fair coin tossing process.
A direct test of the Vine-Matthews hypothesis

Abstract Paleomagnetic studies of the basalt samples of Mid-Atlantic Ridge recovered during DSDP Leg 45 and the FAMOUS Project have led to a revision of our view of the oceanic igneous crust as a recorder of geomagnetic field reversals. The discovery of several magnetic polarity reversals with depth in the crust has indicated that oceanic igneous basement should not necessarily be considered magnetized uniformly in direction, or even polarity, in a given vertical cross section. Statistical arguments, based on the ratio of the average time of crustal formation to the average length of a magnetic polarity interval, indicate that magnetic reversals with depth are to be expected in typical ocean crust, but also that this does not conflict with current theories of plate tectonics or exclude the upper layers of the crust from making a major contribution to the overlying linear magnetic anomalies. Certain ratios of average crustal formation time to average polarity interval do, however, result in an effective zero magnetization for the oceanic crust and these conditions may be responsible for the reduced amplitude of magnetic anomalies in some areas.
Molecular detection of bacterial DNA in venereal‐associated arthritis

Objective. To evaluate the utility of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification in detecting DNA from venereal-associated microorganisms in the synovial fluid of patients with inflammatory arthritis. Methods. Oligonucleotide primers were developed for nested PCR based on Chlamydia, Ureaplasma, and Neisseria DNA sequences. PCR products were detected by gel electrophoresis and dot-blot hybridization. Primers specific for the target bacterial DNA were used to search for bacterial DNA in 61 synovial fluid specimens from patients with inflammatory arthritis, including several clinically associated with venereal infection. Results. Five of the 61 synovial fluid specimens were positive for Neisseria gonorrhoeae DNA. Four of the 5 patients had clinical diagnoses of gonococcal arthritis; the other patient had an unexplained monarthritis. One specimen from a patient with a clinical diagnosis of gonococcal arthritis was negative for N gonorrhoeae. Three of the 61 specimens were positive for Chlamydia DNA. Two were derived from patients with clinical diagnoses of reactive arthritis or Reiter's syndrome, and 1 was from a patient with unexplained monarthritis. One of the 61 specimens was positive for Ureaplasma DNA; this sample was from a patient with a clinical diagnosis of Reiter's syndrome. In an additional patient with Reiter's syndrome, Ureaplasma DNA was also found in prostate biopsy tissue and a urine sample obtained after prostate massage (synovial fluid not available). Conclusion. These data support the classification of these 3 venereal-associated arthritides as infectious processes, and suggest that PCR for bacterial DNA is a useful method for detecting infectious agents in synovial fluid.
A new high-stability synthetic phosphate ester

Neutral phosphate esters are used as fire-resistant basestocks in several applications including hydraulic systems, turbines, and compressors. They are also used as grease basestocks, and in hydrocarbon-based lubricants and synthetic fluids as antiwear additives. Development aspects of a new synthetic triaryl phosphate ester is presented in this paper. This product provides superior hydrolytic stability and lower volatility than existing commercial phosphate esters. Additionally, it has excellent oxidative stability and is fire resistant. The performance characteristics of the fluid suggest use of this phosphate ester as a high stability antiwear additive or lubricant basestock, and in any application where stability is of primary importance.
yTAFII61 Has a General Role in RNA Polymerase II Transcription and Is Required by Gcn4p to Recruit the SAGA Coactivator Complex

We obtained a recessive insertion mutation in the gene encoding yeast TBP-associated factor yTAFII61/68 that impairs Gcn4p-independent and Gcn4p-activated HIS3 transcription. This mutation also reduces transcription of seven other class II genes, thus indicating a broad role for this yTAFII in RNA polymerase II transcription. The Gcn4p activation domain interacts with multiple components of the SAGA complex in cell extracts, including the yTAFII proteins associated with SAGA, but not with two yTAFIIs restricted to TFIID. The taf61-1 mutation impairs binding of Gcn4p to SAGA/yTAFII subunits but not to components of holoenzyme mediator. Our results provide strong evidence that recruitment of SAGA, in addition to holoenzyme, is crucial for activation by Gcn4p in vivo and that yTAFII61 plays a key role in this process.
Algorithms and data structures for 2D and 3D adaptive finite element mesh refinement

Abstract This paper introduces an effective mesh refinement strategy and a data structure for adaptive Finite Element (FE) computation of 2D and 3D problems. A numerical case study and an implementation to solve linear elliptic boundary value problems are presented, and the complexity and efficiency of the refinement algorithm and its data structure are analyzed. The proposed algorithm utilizes a hierarchical minimal tree based data structure for mesh refinement. The amount of tree traversal normally required during the mesh refinement process is minimized in this approach. The algorithm is implemented by imposing a one-level rule and also utilizing the adjacent neighbor (edge and face sharing) concept for recursive refinement. This technique generates mesh refinement data such as a connectivity matrix, an automatic local and global node numbering, a natural order of element sequence, and a coordinate array for the refined elements. The proposed data structure allows easy identification of elements in the tree and also the assimilation of characteristic mesh data necessary for refinement. The data structure facilities identification of the types of nodes after each level of refinement for applying appropriate boundary conditions. The refinement algorithm and the associated data structure have been tested by solving a set of self adjoint boundary value problems using bilinear (quadrilateral) and trilinear (hexahedral brick or cubic) elements in 2D and 3D, respectively. The numerical case studies quantitatively establish the effectiveness of the proposed refinement algorithm and the data structure for practical problem solving.
PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF ANTENNULAR FLICKING REFLEXES IN THE CRAYFISH

The cellular substrates of antennular flicking behavior in the crayfish Procambarus clarkii were investigated. Flicking involves fast downward movements of the external filament of each biramous antennule (1st antenna), and is mediated by phasic contractions of a short muscle, the external filament depressor. Phasic contractions of the external filament depressor depend upon stereotyped impulse bursts in a single motorneuron (P1). These bursts have a characteristic impulse frequency profile that is consistent upon successive occurrences. The temporal characteristics of the impulse burst suggest that the central depolarizations generating each burst may be similar to driver potentials described for motor neurons in crustacean cardiac ganglia. Responses of the external filament to odorants have a long latency and are characterized by repetitive bursts and tonic activity in some external filament depressor fibers. Tonic activity in a slowly contracting muscle, the antennular depressor muscle, is also evoked by chemical stimulation. Flicking is consistently evoked only by mechanical or hydrodynamic stimulation of the cephalothorax, antennae and antennules. The sensitivity and short latency of the hydrodynamic antennule-generated flick reflex is consistent with the sensitivity of rapidly conducting, hydrodynamically activated mechanoreceptor neurons in both antennular filaments. I propose that antennular flicking, which has been shown to enhance the dynamic response characteristics of olfactory receptor neurons on the external antennular filament, has evolved as a response to the turbulence associated with fluid movement, within which chaotic odorant concentration fronts may be imbedded.
Minimalism, the Generalization Problem and the Liar

In defense of the minimalist conception of truth, Paul Horwich(2001) has recently argued that our acceptance of the instances of the schema,`the proposition that p is true if and only if p', suffices to explain our acceptanceof truth generalizations, that is, of general claims formulated using the truth predicate.In this paper, I consider the strategy Horwich develops for explaining our acceptance of truth generalizations. As I show, while perhaps workable on its own, the strategy is in conflictwith his response to the liar paradox. Something must give. I consider and reject variousalternatives and emendations to the strategy. In order to resolve the conflict,I propose an alternative approach to the liar, one that supports Horwich's strategywhile leaving minimalism maximally uncompromised.
BREEDING RANGE EXPANSION BY CAVE SWALLOWS (PETROCHELIDON FULVA) IN TEXAS

Abstract The cave swallow (Petrochelidon fulva) was first discovered breeding in caves and sinkholes in Texas in 1915. Within the last 50 years, it has colonized new breeding sites in western and southern Texas, and colonization has been attributed to the presence of highway culverts and bridges. We examined published observations and breeding bird survey (BBS) data, and surveyed selected culverts in western and southeastern Texas to determine the rate and extent of colonization by cave swallows. From 1957 to 1999, the breeding range of the cave swallow increased by approximately 898%, with an average annual rate of increase of 6% per year. Based on BBS data, cave swallow populations are increasing 10.8% per year, and our survey indicated that cave swallows occupied >90% of the culverts surveyed in western Texas. Range expansion is likely to continue, and additional data are needed to determine how an expanding cave swallow population might affect local barn swallow populations.
Point Laser Triangulation Probe Calibration for Coordinate Metrology

Point Laser Triangulation (PLT) probes have significant advantages over traditional touch probes. These advantages include throughput and no contact force, which motivate use of PLT probes on Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs). This document addresses the problem of extrinsic calibration. We present a precise technique for calibrating a PLT probe to a CMM. This new method uses known information from a localized polyhedron and measurements taken on the polyhedron by the PLT probe to determine the calibration parameters. With increasing interest in applying PLT probes for point measurements in coordinate metrology, such a calibration method is needed.
Size Dependent Reactions of Boron and Carbon Cluster Ions

The results of boron cluster ion reactions with SiH4 and N2O are presented. For N2O reactions, significant size effects were observed in the branching between the BnO+ and BnN+ product channels. Carbon cluster ion reactions with D2 reveal the effect of structural isomers on cluster reactivity.
Programmable nanowire circuits for nanoprocessors

A nanoprocessor constructed from intrinsically nanometre-scale building blocks is an essential component for controlling memory, nanosensors and other functions proposed for nanosystems assembled from the bottom up. Important steps towards this goal over the past fifteen years include the realization of simple logic gates with individually assembled semiconductor nanowires and carbon nanotubes, but with only 16 devices or fewer and a single function for each circuit. Recently, logic circuits also have been demonstrated that use two or three elements of a one-dimensional memristor array, although such passive devices without gain are difficult to cascade. These circuits fall short of the requirements for a scalable, multifunctional nanoprocessor owing to challenges in materials, assembly and architecture on the nanoscale. Here we describe the design, fabrication and use of programmable and scalable logic tiles for nanoprocessors that surmount these hurdles. The tiles were built from programmable, non-volatile nanowire transistor arrays. Ge/Si core/shell nanowires coupled to designed dielectric shells yielded single-nanowire, non-volatile field-effect transistors (FETs) with uniform, programmable threshold voltages and the capability to drive cascaded elements. We developed an architecture to integrate the programmable nanowire FETs and define a logic tile consisting of two interconnected arrays with 496 functional configurable FET nodes in an area of ∼960 μm(2). The logic tile was programmed and operated first as a full adder with a maximal voltage gain of ten and input-output voltage matching. Then we showed that the same logic tile can be reprogrammed and used to demonstrate full-subtractor, multiplexer, demultiplexer and clocked D-latch functions. These results represent a significant advance in the complexity and functionality of nanoelectronic circuits built from the bottom up with a tiled architecture that could be cascaded to realize fully integrated nanoprocessors with computing, memory and addressing capabilities.
Hologram Recording With A New Polaroid Photopolymer System

Holography with a new photopolymer system, DMP-128, will be described. Films of DMP-l28 are coated on either solid or flexible substrates from an aqueous solvent. The resulting films, when stored dry, have a shelf life that exceeds nine months. The dry films are inactive and must be incubated for a few minutes in an environment of approximately 50% rh before laser exposure. Recording is possible with eitheF blue (442nm, 488nm), green (514nm), or red (633nm, 647nm) laser light. Exposure of 5mj/cm is sufficient for high diffraction efficiency (80%-95%) transmission holograms, while 30mj/cm2 is required for bright reflection holograms. It is not necessary to exclude atmospheric oxygen during hologram recording. Refractive index modulation of 0.03 is routinely achieved. After laser exposure a uniform white light illumination is used to complete the photo-polymerization. A single processing bath yields holograms with good environmental stability. An additional processing bath yields images with exceptional resistance to high humidity.
Magnetic properties of several Ce2T2M phases with T=Ni, Pd and M=In, Sn, Pb

Abstract Four new ternary intermetallic compounds were prepared: Ce 2 Pd 2 In, Ce 2 Pd 2 Sn, Ce 2 Pd 2 Pb and Ce 2 Ni 2 Sn. The first three are isotypic, adopting the tetragonal U 3 Si 2 structure. The structure of Ce 2 Ni 2 Sn is of the orthorhombic Mo 2 CoB 2 type, but extensive solid solutions occur between it and Ce 2 Pd 2 Sn. Magnetic susceptibility measurements were performed on each ternary and the known Ce 2 Ni 2 In phase. Cerium is tetravalent in Ce 2 Ni 2 In and trivalent in the remaining phases at room temperature. Kondo behaviour is present in Ce 2 Ni 2 Sn with T K near 9 K. Ferromagnetic behaviour with T c near 4.2 K is seen in both Ce 2 Pd 2 In and Ce 2 Pd 2 Sn. Anti-ferromagnetic ordering is observed in Ce 2 Pd 2 Pb with a Neel temperature of 6.2 K. An apparently second-order transition involving a reduction in the effective cerium moment also occurs in Ce 2 Pd 2 Pb at 120 K.
Low-power LDPC decoding based on iteration prediction

Low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes have very broad applications. Low-power LDPC decoder design is becoming increasingly important for wireless and other power-constraint systems. Compared to disabling or simplifying the decoder circuit, reducing the power supply voltage can bring more power reduction. Through predicting the number of iterations needed for convergence, this paper proposes to make full use of the time available for decoding and scale down the power supply voltage in the remaining decoding iterations. Novel iteration prediction schemes are developed. The proposed schemes require very small hardware overhead and do not lead to noticeable error-correcting performance loss. Compared to using the original supply voltage and powering off the decoder after convergence, the proposed schemes can bring 50% dynamic power reduction for an example LDPC code, and the power saving further increases with the signal-to-noise ratio.
Field-aided microtailoring of polymeric nanocomposites

Contemporary applications could benefit from multifunctional materials having anisotropic optical, electrical, thermal or mechanical properties. These desirable features, but with locally-controlled distribution of directional response, would be even more attractive. Such materials are difficult to engineer by conventional methods. However, the field-aided technology presented herein is able to locally tailor electroactive composites. By applying an electric field to a polymer in its liquid state, we have developed ability to orient chain- or fiber-like inclusions or phases from what was originally an isotropic material. Such composites can be formed from liquid solutions, melts, or mixture of pre-polymer and cross-linking agent. Upon curing, a "created composite" results consisting of these "pseudo fibers" embedded in a matrix. One can also create orientated composites from embedded spheres, flakes or fiber-like shapes in a liquid plastic. Orientation of the externally applied electric field defines the orientation of field-aided self-assembled composites. The strength and exposure duration of the electric field control the degree of created anisotropy. Results of electromechanical testing of these modified materials relevant to sensing and actuation applications are presented. Material microstructure is analyzed using microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The performance of these novel materials having different composition and morphology is being investigated.
Proton affinity of the stable free radical 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-l-piperidinyloxy measured by the kinetic method

Abstract Proton-bound dimers can be generated between the stable free radical, 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-l-piperidinyloxy (TEMPO), and various reference compounds in a chemical ionization source. The individual mass-selected dimers dissociate upon collision to yield the protonated monomers as the only product ions. From their relative abundances the kinetic method yields a value of 209.5 ± 1.0 kcal mol−1 for the proton affinity of the TEMPO radical. The proton affinity is compared to that of m-methylphenoxyl and other oxy radicals.
Value-driven behavior generation for an autonomous mobile ground robot

In this paper, we will describe a value-driven graph search technique that is capable of generating a rich variety of single and multiple vehicle behaviors. The generation of behaviors depends on cost and benefit computations that may involve terrain characteristics, line of sight to enemy positions, and cost, benefit, and risk of traveling on roads. Depending on mission priorities and cost values, real-time planners can autonomously build appropriate behaviors on the fly that include road following, cross-country movement, stealthily movement, formation keeping, and bounding overwatch. This system follows NIST's 4D/RCS architecture, and a discussion of the world model, value judgment, and behavior generation components is provided. In addition, techniques for collapsing a multidimensional model space into a cost space and planning graph constraints are discussed. The work described in this paper has been performed under the Army Research Laboratory's Robotics Demo III program.