cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Theoretical study of microwave radiometry for buried object detection

An analytical study of environmental and clutter effects on microwave radiometers used for the detection of buried objects is presented. To simplify the analysis, it is assumed that the soil/target medium has a constant physical temperature versus depth, so that Kirchhoff's law can be applied to determine emissivities, and a simple layered medium geometry is used to model a buried target. Changes in brightness temperatures which result due to the present of a buried target are illustrated for varying soil dielectric properties, radiometer frequencies, and target depths, and are contrasted with changes in brightness temperatures which can occur when no target is presented due to slight soil moisture or soil temperature variations. Brightness temperature clutter due to a small surface roughness is also analytically modeled, through application of the small slope approximation for the homogeneous medium case and the small perturbation method in the presence of a subsurface layer, and it is shown that surface clutter effects can be mitigated through proper choice of sensor polarization and observation angle. Particular attention is given to the relationship between passive and active microwave sensors; results demonstrate that these two can provide complementary information. Finally, the use of wideband radiometric measurements are discussed as a means for reducing environmental clutter effects and improving detection algorithms.
On the Lq norm of cyclotomic Littlewood polynomials on the unit circle

Let n be the collection of all (Littlewood) polynomials of degree n with coefficients in {−1, 1}. In this paper we prove that if ( P 2ν ) is a sequence of cyclotomic polynomials P 2ν ∈ 2ν , then for every q > 2 with some a = a ( q ) > 1/2 depending only on q , where The case q = 4 of the above result is due to P. Borwein, Choi and Ferguson. We also prove that if ( P 2ν ) is a sequence of cyclotomic polynomials P 2ν ∈ 2ν , then for every 0 q b = b ( q ) q . Similar results are conjectured for Littlewood polynomials of odd degree. Our main tool here is the Borwein–Choi Factorization Theorem.
Matricial filters and crystallographic composite dilation wavelets

In [7, 8] Guo, Labate, Lim, Weiss, and Wilson introduced the theory of MRA composite dilation wavelets. We continue their work by studying the filter properties of such wavelets and present several important examples.
Endothelin-1 expression in myenteric neurons cultured from rat small intestine

Endothelin is a potent vasoactive peptide. More recently, endothelin-1 (ET-1) has been found in neural tissues such as spinal cord, brain and peripheral ganglion cells. Inagaki (Gastroenterology 101 (1991) 47) reported evidence of ET-1-like immunoreactivity in enteric neurons, but there are no reports of ET-1 peptide or mRNA expression specifically in myenteric neurons. Using a primary culture of myenteric neurons, we set out to evaluate ET-1 peptide and mRNA expression. Myenteric neurons were cultured using a dissection and enzyme dispersion technique. ET-1 reactivity was localized to neurons and ET-1 levels from cells and media were assayed by radioimmunoassay under a variety of media conditions or with depolarizing buffer or veratridine (75 microM). Prepro ET-1 mRNA expression was determined by Northern analysis of total RNA utilizing a rat ET-1 cDNA. ET-1 immunoreactivity was observed almost exclusively in myenteric neurons. Cells contained 0.78 pg/micrograms protein and did not vary with variations in media conditions. Basal release/secretion into media occurred but was not enhanced by depolarizing media or veratridine. High levels of ET-1 mRNA expression were identified. These results of high level constitutive expression of ET-1 linked with previous reports of ET-1 modulation of cholinergic intestinal smooth muscle contraction suggest a neuromodulatory role.
Variation in plant species richness in and adjacent to 64 ponds in SE Norwegian agricultural landscapes

Abstract All vascular plants, classified by life and growth form into six groups, four groups of hydrophytes (lemnids, nymphaeids, elodeids and isoetids), helophytes, and terrestrial species of pond margins, were inventoried in 64 SE Norwegian agricultural landscape ponds and their adjacent margins. The study sites varied considerably with respect to species richness; 0–4 for each hydrophyte group, 0–9 for helophytes, and 13–77 for terrestrial species. A total of 56 explanatory variables were recorded for each pond and adjacent margin to explain the observed richness variability. Species richness in each plant group was modelled separately by generalised linear models (GLM), using the recorded explanatory variables as predictors. Pond area, water depth and water chemical variables were the most important predictors of hydrophyte and helophyte species richness, followed by fluctuation and human impact variables such as liming and presence of ducks and fish. Pond margin area and geographical variables were significant predictors of richness of terrestrial species of pond margins. The contribution of different structuring processes to explanation of species richness patterns is discussed. The generally weak explanatory power of the selected variables indicates high importance of apparent randomness in this ecosystem, and, notably, that the ponds and their adjacent margins represent islands in the agricultural landscape that accumulate species more or less individualistically.
The effects of zoning on structure and land markets

Abstract Zoning takes three general forms: constraints on density, lot size, and allowable use. This paper demonstrates that the three restrictions differ in their effects on structure and land markets. Density zoning is equivalent to a monopoly restriction that can be used to raise all land values. Allowable use restrictions affect land values differentially. Large-lot restrictions affect the price for housing paid by individual households differentially. Considering externalities does not alter these basic differences. The implications for empirical studies of zoning are discussed.
Specific staining of iododeoxyuridine and bromodeoxyuridine in tumors double labelled in vivo: A cell kinetic analysis

The simultaneous and specific staining of iododeoxyuridine (IdUrd) and chlorodeoxyuridine (CldUrd) allows for more accurate estimates of potential doubling time (Tpot). Because CldUrd is not approved for human use, the procedure was adapted for the staining of IdUrd and bromodeoxy-uridine (BrdUrd). The fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated B44 antibody (B44-FITC) stained both IdUrd and BrdUrd in tumor nuclei labelled singly with one or the other pyrimidine analogue. However, when MCaK tumors in exponential growth in vivo were pulse labelled with both IdUrd and BrdUrd, the staining of BrdUrd was not seen, and the labelling pattern reflected specificity to IdUrd. These observations were confirmed using tumors pulse labelled with IdUrd and/or BrdUrd at 6 h and/or 0.3 h prior to tumor removal in all possible combinations. Simultaneous specific staining of BrdUrd by Br3 and of IdUrd by B44-FITC was documented by quantification of labelling indices (LIs) from double-labelled tumors. The specificity of B44-FITC for IdUrd in double-labelled tumors was due to a greater affinity of this antibody for IdUrd than for BrdUrd. This technique allowed for two independent estimates of LI and Tpot when tumors were double labelled for 3.0 and 5.5 h. Both IdUrd and BrdUrd are approved for clinical use, and this double-labelling technique should prove to be valuable for measuring the cell kinetics of solid tumors in vivo.
CO2 absorption into aqueous mixtures of diglycolamine® and methyldiethanolamine

Abstract Rates of CO2 absorption into mixtures of methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) and β,β′-hydroxyaminoethyl ether (diglycolamine®, DGA) were measured in a wetted-wall column reactor at 25–100°C with CO2 loading from 0.015 to 0.55 mol CO2/mol of reactive solvent. The mass transfer rates were modeled by approximate surface renewal theory with time-mean concentrations and fluxes. The rates in the mixtures were relatively insensitive to the reaction rate parameters, but strongly dependent on the diffusivity of liquid-phase reactants and reaction products and on thermodynamic interaction parameters, especially at temperatures greater than 60°C. Regressed diffusion coefficients for the liquid-phase reactants and reaction products are comparable to previously measured values for similar molecules. The regressed values for the electrolyte interaction parameter of water–carbamate salt are comparable to reported values of the equivalent parameter for the system monoethanolamine–MDEA.
Composite correlation filter for O-ring detection in stationary colored noise

O-rings are regularly replaced in aircraft and if they are not replaced or if they are installed improperly, they can result in catastrophic failure of the aircraft. It is critical that the o-rings be packaged correctly to avoid mistakes made by technicians during routine maintenance. For this reason, fines may be imposed on the o-ring manufacturer if the o-rings are packaged incorrectly. That is, a single o-ring must be packaged and labeled properly. No o-rings or more than one o-ring per package is not acceptable. We present an industrial inspection system based on real-time composite correlation filtering that has successfully solved this problem in spite of opaque paper o-ring packages. We present the system design including the composite filter design.
Nonlinear viscoelasticity and yield: Application of a coupling model

An approach to nonlinear viscoelasticity is described which is based on the “coupling model” of relaxation. A brief review of nonlinear viscoelasticity models is given to put the present approach into historical perspective. The physical basis of the coupling model is then described, and the quantitative predictions that the model has made in linear viscoelasticity and other areas of relaxation are discussed. The relaxation function predicted by the coupling model is used as a time-dependent kernal in a constitutive equation for a description of nonlinear viscoelasticity. The model incorporates the strain history dependence and allows for the evolution of material structure. Simulations are presented showing how the model reproduces the essential features of constant strain-rate, strain-rate change, and strain-step experiments. Experiments are described that can partially characterize the coupling model parameters and lead to quantitative tests of the model.
Osteopenia and impaired fracture healing in aged EP4 receptor knockout mice.

The EP4 receptor, one of the subtypes of the prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) receptor, plays a critical role in the anabolic effects of PGE 2 on bone. However, its role in the maintenance of bone mass in aged animals and its role in fracture healing is not well known. Our studies addressed these issues by characterizing the skeletal phenotype of aged, EP4 receptor knockout (KO) mice, and by comparing fracture healing in aged KO mice versus wild type (WT) mice. There was no significant difference in body weight and femoral length between KO and WT mice at 15 to 16 months of age. Lower bone mass was seen radiographically in both axial and long bones of KO mice relative to WT mice. Micro-CT images of the distal femurs showed thinner cortices, fewer trabeculae, and a deteriorated trabecular network in KO mice. Total bone content, trabecular content, and cortical content, as assessed by pQCT in the distal femur, were lower in KO mice than WT controls. Histomorphometric measurements showed that trabecular bone volume and bone formation rate were significantly decreased whereas osteoclast number on trabecular surface and eroded surface on endocortical surface were significantly increased in KO mice. These data indicated that deleting the EP4 receptor resulted in an imbalance in bone resorption over formation, leading to a negative bone balance. The lower bone formation rate in EP4 KO mice was primarily due to decreased mineralizing surface, suggesting that the defect in overall bone formation was mainly due to the defect in osteoblastogenesis. Fracture healing was examined in KO and WT mice subjected to a transverse femoral fracture. Callus formation was significantly delayed as evidenced both radiographically and histologically in the fractured femurs of KO mice compared with those of WT mice. KO mice had significant decreases in total callus area, cartilaginous callus area, and bony callus area 2 weeks after fracture. By 4 weeks, complete bony bridging was seen in WT mice but not in KO mice. These data demonstrate that the absence of the EP4 receptor decreases bone mass and impairs fracture healing in aged male mice. Our findings indicate that the EP4 receptor is a positive regulator in the maintenance of bone mass and fracture healing.
Formation of 2′,3′-Cyclic Phosphates at the 3′ End of Human U6 Small Nuclear RNA in Vitro IDENTIFICATION OF 2′,3′-CYCLIC PHOSPHATES AT THE 3′ ENDS OF HUMAN SIGNAL RECOGNITION PARTICLE AND MITOCHONDRIAL RNA PROCESSING RNAs

Approximately 90% of human U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) contains uridine cyclic phosphate (U>p) at its 3′-end (Lund, E., and Dahlberg, J. E. (1992) Science 255, 327–330). We studied the formation of U>p at the 3′ end of human U6 snRNA using an in vitro system where uridylic acid residues are added from UTP precursor and U>p is formed. Analysis of U6 snRNAs with varying number of uridylic acid residues showed that each of these species contains U>p where the phosphate originated from α-phosphate of UTP precursor. The cyclic phosphate formation occurred on U6 snRNA in extracts where essential spliceosomal snRNAs were specifically degraded, thereby indicating that U>p formation is not coupled to pre-mRNA splicing. A subpopulation of human signal recognition particle and mitochondrial RNA processing RNAs isolated from HeLa cells also contained cyclic phosphates at their 3′ ends. These data suggest that U>p in U6 snRNA is unlikely to be related to its participation in splicing of pre-mRNAs. It appears that cyclic phosphate is an intermediate product in the metabolism of these small RNAs.
SU‐FF‐T‐400: Monte Carlo Simulations of Compact Plasma Accelerators for Proton Radiotherapy

Purpose: One common characteristic of the compact plasmaproton accelerators is a broad energy spectrum which can not be used directly for radiotherapy. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of the geometrical parameters of the treatment head components, their materials, and the magnetic field configuration, on the proton and neutrondose distributions to identify an optimal design for the plasmaproton accelerator's treatment head and provide important feedback to ongoing plasmaproton experiments. Method and Materials: Calculations of protondose distributions and the neutrondose equivalent were performed using Monte Carlo simulations by irradiating a water phantom with protons in the energy range of 175 to 250 MeV. The simulations were performed using the Geant4 (version 4.9.2) toolkit. The input spectra were experimental energy spectra scaled to energies relevant for radiotherapy, having a broad Gaussian distribution. Results: We have designed a collimating system, magnetic field region, energy selector, and shielding components for a plasma accelerated proton therapy system. The collimating and energy selector systems are needed in order to achieve protondose distributions superior to the conventional X‐ray radiotherapy distributions. It is shown that a great number of unwanted electrons and photons is stopped by a sequence of tungsten absorbing disks placed inside the collimating and energy selector systems. Also, a sequence of three boronated polyethylene layers is shown to substantially capture the secondary neutrons.Dosedeposited by neutrons in the water phantom is found to be 6 orders of magnitude lower than the dosedeposited by protons, thus giving negligible contribution to the integral dose. Conclusion: We have studied the design of the plasmaproton accelerator's treatment head. It is shown that the proposed system is capable of delivering clinically relevant protondose distributions. The implemented shielding components ensure extremely low neutrondose distributions.
Of mice and men: skin cells, stem cells and ethical uncertainties

The recent reports concerning the creation of live mice from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) suggest that it may be possible to overcome one of the many critical barriers to creating patient-specific stem cell therapies – the derivation of truly pluripotent cell lines through reprogramming [1–3]. Nevertheless, these reports raise some important issues that must be considered. First, the reports suggest that iPSCs behave like embryonic stem cells, but also that it will be possible to dramatically improve the efficiency of their derivation. It currently takes a considerable amount of time and resources to create iPSCs, which hampers their potential use in medicine. Furthermore, the mechanisms for enhancing the efficiency of iPSC derivation are unclear and there is no guarantee this approach will work in humans. In addition, while tetraploid complementation in a murine model is unlikely to be controversial, it would clearly be problematic to conduct similar experiments in humans. Second, the value of using iPSCs for therapeutic purposes depends heavily on the derivation method employed. The method described by Yamanaka that was used in these recent reports introduces genes known to be associated with the development of cancers [4]. While at least one of the iPSC-derived mice matured and reproduced naturally, long-term health effects remain unclear. Third, while some may use these findings to suggest that embryos may no longer need to be used for stem cell research, thus eliminating the predominant moral and policy conflicts regarding stem cell research, such a conclusion is likely to be premature. These experiments involved the creation of embryos, from which the live mice were successfully born. Paradoxically, this brings us full circle to the knotty questions related to the moral status of the embryo. Thus, while this scientific achievement is important, the scientific and medical community, along with the public, need to keep perspective. First, clear ethical oversight of this research should be in place, consistent with guidelines already suggested by major professional groups [101,102]. Second, it is unlikely that all questions related to embryos and stem cell research have been resolved. Third, reliable and efficient methods of deriving human iPSCs need to be carefully developed before attempting to use them for therapeutic purposes. Fourth, long-term experiments involving iPSCs will need to be conducted to help ensure their safety.
Temperature-Rise Tests on Ventilated Dry-Type Transrormers

The thermal testing of ventilated dry-type transformers, because of their different thermal structure as contrasted to oil-immersed transformers, requires consideration of, and provision for, evaluation of effects that are different in magnitude and in rate of temperature change. Thus different testing methods, precautions, corrections, and compromises are necessary to obtain reproducible test results. Data are presented utilizing various thermal testing methods for several representative units; suggestions are made for correlating these methods. Indications are also given regarding the relative accuracy of the results.
How do the parietal lobes direct covert attention

In cases of unilateral parietal damage patients have trouble with stimuli in the visual hemifield on the side opposite the lesion (contralesional). This deficit is clear when they are first cued to attend to a location on the side of the lesion (ipsilesional) and then given a target on the opposite side of fixation. Our first experiments indicated that these patients do worse when cued to a location in either field and then given a target in the contralesional as compared to the ipsilesional direction. The results of this experiment can be accounted for by a representational or a directional view. A second experiment seeks to discriminate between the two. The results tend to favor the directional view.
A method for determining hyperfine coupling constants from unresolved esr spectra of hydrocarbon ions

Abstract Ions of the larger polycyclic hydrocarbons generally produce incompletely resolved ESR spectra because of the many possible hyperfine transitions. Coupling constants can be estimated to within a few percent by computing spectra of overlapping Lorentzian lines with modulation amplitude included explicitly, varying the coupling constants for a best fit with the experimental data, and comparing spectra taken at different modulation amplitudes. The method is applied to anthanthrene anion, for which coupling constants in gauss, | α H | = 4.29, 3.98, 3.57, 0.98, 0.92, and 0.67, all ± 3 %, were found for the proton sites in pairs, and a potassium coupling constant of 0.05 ± .02. There is fair agreement with constants calculated from McLachlan spin densities, using the Colpa-Bolton equation | α H | = 27 p − 12.9 p 2 . This approach, applied to carcinogenic hydrocarbons, should prove useful in the attempt to correlate their spin resonance spectra, electronic configurations and carcinogenicity.
Influence of water temperature on acetylcholinesterase activity in the Pacific tree frog (Hyla regilla).

This investigation evaluated whether acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in Pacific tree frogs (Hyla regilla) from different geographical locations was influenced by different temperatures during early aquatic life stages, independent of pesticide exposure. Tadpoles were collected from both a California coastal pond and a Sierra Nevada mountain range pond, USA. Groups of frogs from each location were raised in temperatures representative of either the Sierra Nevada (8°C) or the coastal (19°C) location. Metamorphs from both locations raised as tadpoles at 19°C had AChE activities of 42.3 and 38.7 nm/min/mg protein, while those raised as tadpoles at 8°C had activities of 26.9 and 28.2 nm/min/mg protein. A two-way analysis of variance revealed temperature to be the significant factor in determining AChE activity (F = 22.3, p < 0.001), although origin was not important (F = 0.09, p = 0.75). Interpretations regarding the influence of pesticides upon AChE activity in Pacific tree frogs must consider the influence of environmental temperature to enable cross-population comparisons.
Partial trisomy 8 mosaicism due to a pseudoisodicentric chromosome 8

Chromosome 8 is the largest autosome in which mosaic trisomy is compatible with life. Constitutional trisomy 8 (T8) is estimated to occur in approximately 0.1% of all recognized pregnancies. The estimated frequency of trisomy 8 mosaicism (T8M), also known as Warkany syndrome, is about 1/25,000 to 50,000 liveborns, and is found to be more prevalent in males than females, 5:1. T8M is known to demonstrate extreme clinical variability affecting multiple systems including central nervous, ocular, cardiac, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and musculoskeletal. There appears to be little correlation between the level of mosaicism and the extent of the clinical phenotype. Additionally, the exact mechanism that causes the severity of phenotype in patients with T8M remains unknown. We report on a mildly dysmorphic male patient with partial low-level T8M due to a pseudoisodicentric chromosome 8 with normal 6.0 SNP microarray and high resolution chromosome analyses in lymphocytes. The aneuploidy was detected in fibroblasts and confirmed by FISH in lymphocytes. This report elaborates further the clinical variability seen in trisomy 8 mosaicism.
The bipolar lead acid battery at Johnson Controls Inc

A sealed lead acid bipolar battery is under development at Johnson Controls Inc. (JCI). Recent progress in the lead acid bipolar battery development at JCI is discussed. The work at JCI has combined the general principles laid out by Bennion for bipolar batteries with state of the art lead acid automotive battery technology. In addition to the bipolar arrangement of the cells, the battery design incorporates three other key features: the electrolyte system, the container, and the paste formulation. Three and six cell bipolar laboratory test batteries containing all of the key features of the final multi-cell batteries have been constructed. The plates used in the test batteries are full-size. Simultaneously with laboratory tests, a mathematical model simulation of the battery was run which has accurately predicted battery discharge test results. Using the model as an adjunct to the laboratory testing, many discharges can be simulated accurately. Simulation results are presented. >
Modeling spatially explicit forest structural attributes using Generalized Additive Models

We modelled forest composition and structural diversity in the Uinta Mountains, Utah, as functions of satellite spectral data and spatially-explicit environmental variables through generalized additive models. Measures of vegetation composition and structural diversity were available from existing forest inventory data. Satellite data included raw spectral data from the Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM), a GAP Analysis classified TM, and a vegetation index based on raw spectral data from an advanced very high resolution radiometer (AVHRR). Environmental predictor variables included maps of temperature, precipitation, elevation, aspect, slope, and geology. Spatially-explicit predictions were generated for the presence of forest and lodgepole cover types, basal area of forest trees, percent cover of shrubs, and density of snags. The maps were validated using an independent set of field data collected from the Evanston ranger district within the Uinta Mountains. Within the Evanston ranger district, model predictions were 88% and 80% accurate for forest presence and lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta), respectively. An average 62% of the predictions of basal area, shrub cover, and snag density fell within a 15% deviation from the field validation values. The addition of TM spectral data and the GAP Analysis TM-classified data contributed significantly to the models' predictions, while AVHRR had less significance.
Crystal Structure of HLA-DR2 (DRA*0101, DRB1*1501) Complexed with a Peptide from Human Myelin Basic Protein

Susceptibility to multiple sclerosis is associated with the human histocompatibility leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR2 (DRB1*1501) haplotype. The structure of HLA-DR2 was determined with a bound peptide from human myelin basic protein (MBP) that is immunodominant for human MBP-specific T cells. Residues of MBP peptide that are important for T cell receptor recognition are prominent, solvent exposed residues in the crystal structure. A distinguishing feature of the HLA-DR2 peptide binding site is a large, primarily hydrophobic P4 pocket that accommodates a phenylalanine of the MBP peptide. The necessary space for this aromatic side chain is created by an alanine at the polymorphic DRβ 71 position. These features make the P4 pocket of HLA-DR2 distinct from DR molecules associated with other autoimmune diseases.
Real time moire interferometry using a Fabry-Perot cavity with a phase conjugate mirror.

This Technical Note clarifies the validity of certain expressions given in the original paper.
Fluid Dynamics of Diffuser-Augmented Wind Turbines

The diffuser-augmented wind turbine (DAWT) is one of the advanced concepts being investigated to improve the economics of wind energy conversion systems (WECS). Application of modern boundary-layer control techniques has reduced the surface area requirements of an efficient diffuser by an order of magnitude. Many parameters that affect the performance of the diffuser system have been examined in small-scale wind tunnel tests with a family of compact diffusers, using screens and centerbodies to simulate the presence of a turbine. Flowfield surveys, overall performance, the effect of ground proximity, and the prospects for further improvement are described. The baseline configuration is a conical, 60 deg included angle diffuser with an area ratio of 2.78 controlled by two tangential injection slots. This first-generation DAWT can provide about twice the power of a conventional WECS with the same turbine diameter and wind. Economic estimates show that this DAWT can be as much as 50% cheaper than coventional WECS for the same rated power.
Notes Toward a Contextualist Understanding of Social Psychology

This article attempts to consolidate various contextualist ideas that have emerged out of the "crisis "that social psychology experienced over the past two decades. It proceeds on the philosophical premise that all sociopsychological knowledge is perennially conceptual and conjectural and no method can conclusively demonstrate the truth. Other assumptions and assertions of this experiential, interpretive orientation that recognizes the plurality, spontaneity, and ecological dependency of social behavior are exploited, with particular emphasis on their implications for a profoundly relativistic and pluralistic shift in sociopsychological thinking.
An Ecology of Prestige in New York City: Examining the Relationships Among Population Density, Socio-economic Status, Group Identity, and Residential Canopy Cover

Several social theories have been proposed to explain the uneven distribution of vegetation in urban residential areas: population density, social stratification, luxury effect, and ecology of prestige. We evaluate these theories using a combination of demographic and socio-economic predictors of vegetative cover on all residential lands in New York City. We use diverse data sources including the City’s property database, time-series demographic and socio-economic data from the US Census, and land cover data from the University of Vermont’s Spatial Analysis Lab (SAL). These data are analyzed using a multi-model inferential, spatial econometrics approach. We also examine the distribution of vegetation within distinct market categories using Claritas’ Potential Rating Index for Zipcode Markets (PRIZM™) database. These categories can be disaggregated, corresponding to the four social theories. We compare the econometric and categorical results for validation. Models associated with ecology of prestige theory are more effective for predicting the distribution of vegetation. This suggests that private, residential patterns of vegetation, reflecting the consumption of environmentally relevant goods and services, are associated with different lifestyles and lifestages. Further, our spatial and temporal analyses suggest that there are significant spatial and temporal dependencies that have theoretical and methodological implications for understanding urban ecological systems. These findings may have policy implications. Decision makers may need to consider how to most effectively reach different social groups in terms of messages and messengers in order to advance land management practices and achieve urban sustainability.
Particle swarm optimization

Gerhard Venter (gventer_vrand.conl) *Vanderpla(ds Research and Development, bit.1767 S 8th St'reef. Suite 100, Colorado Springs. CO 80906Jaroslaw Sobieszczanski-Sobieski (j.sobieski:_larc.nasa.gov) *A_4SA Lcmgley Research Ce,_terMS 240, Hampton, I:4 23681-2199The purpose of this paper is to show how the search algorithm, known as par-ticle swarm optimization performs. Here, particle swarm optimization ks appliedto structural design problems, but the method.has a much wider range of possi-ble applications. The paper's new contributions are improvements to the particleswarm optimization algorithm and conclusions and recommendations as to theutility of the algorithm. Results of numerical experiments for both continuousand discrete applications are presented in the paper. The results indicate that theparticle swarm optimization algorithm does locate the constrained minimum de-sign in continuous applications with very good precision, albeit at a much highercomputational cost than that of a typical gradient based optimizer. However, thetrue potential of particle swarm optimization is primarily in applications withdiscrete and/or discontinuous functions and variables. Additionally, particleswarm optimization has the potential of e3_icient computation with very largenumbers of concurrently operating processors.
Applications of Bloom Filters in Peer-to-peer Systems: Issues and Questions

Bloom filter is a widely-used data structure that concisely represents a large set of contents for approximate membership queries. Due to its good space efficiency, Bloom filter has been applied or customized in a variety of P2P system designs. Although the basic idea of Bloom filter is explained each time it is used, elaborative details are ignored. However, we argue that it is no.t always a trivial task to make a good decision on specific design aspects when applying Bloom filters in P2P systems. If not well deployed, the overhead and side effects of Bloom filters may outweigh their benefits. In this paper we study Bloom filter in the context of P2P systems, and explore its design space on several important issues. Our goal is to provide an in-depth understanding on Bloom filter's strength and weakness, and gain an insight into its usagein P2P systems. In addition, we raise some open questions that deserve further discussion among theP2P community.
Structural similarity of the covalent complexes formed between the serpin plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 and the arginine‐specific proteinases trypsin, LMW u‐PA, HMW u‐PA, and t‐PA: Use of site‐specific fluorescent probes of local environment

We have used two fluorescent probes, NBD and dansyl, attached site-specifically to the serpin plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) to address the question of whether a common mechanism of proteinase translocation and full insertion of the reactive center loop is used by PAI-1 when it forms covalent SDS-stable complexes with four arginine-specific proteinases, which differ markedly in size and domain composition. Single-cysteine residues were incorporated at position 119 or 302 as sites for specific reporter labeling. These are positions ∼30 Å apart that allow discrimination between different types of complex structure. Fluorescent derivatives were prepared for each of these variants using both NBD and dansyl as reporters of local perturbations. Spectra of native and cleaved forms also allowed discrimination between direct proteinase-induced changes and effects solely due to conformational change within the serpin. Covalent complexes of these derivatized PAI-1 species were made with the proteinases trypsin, LMW u-PA, HMW u-PA, and t-PA. Whereas only minor perturbations of either NBD and dansyl were found for almost all complexes when label was at position 119, major perturbations in both wavelength maximum (blue shifts) and quantum yield (both increases and decreases) were found for all complexes for both NBD and dansyl at position 302. This is consistent with all four complexes having similar location of the proteinase catalytic domain and hence with all four using the same mechanism of full-loop insertion with consequent distortion of the proteinase wedged in at the bottom of the serpin.
Schizophrenia: Improving the Continuity of Care to Ensure Optimal Patient Outcomes

As with many illnesses, early diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia improves long-term outcomes. 1 Therefore, information is a basic need for both people with schizophrenia and their families. 2 But even under the best of circumstances when families are informed, communications are optimal, and treatment is secured, lack of adherence to prescribed medication regimens often adversely affects outcomes. A common therapeutic problem across disease states, medication nonadherence is especially challenging in the setting of schizophrenia due to the altered mental processes and stigma associated with this debilitating disease. This Essentials in Medicine CME series, Schizophrenia: Improving the Continuity of Care to Ensure Optimal Patient Outcomes, brings together a panel of multidisciplinary experts to discuss the complex realities and challenges of a schizophrenia diagnosis. To move the discussion from the theoretical realm to the personal, faculty invited their patients to share their personal experiences living with schizophrenia. This monograph presents highlights of these discussions, which are available on www. MYCMESITE.com.
Spouses as Campaign Surrogates: Strategic Appearances by Presidential and Vice Presidential Candidates' Wives in the 2004 Election

It is clear from the presidential primary campaign that 2008 can legitimately be labeled “the year of the spouse as surrogate.” The sheer number of candidates on both sides of the aisle and the heavily front-loaded campaign season have made using the wives—and husband—of the candidates a “must.” Never before has media attention been so heavily focused on the spouses. In fact, they have often been an equal, or in some cases, bigger story than the candidates themselves. The same pattern will characterize the spouses of the vice presidential candidates. The bottom line is that use of presidential and vice presidential spouses has become an integral part of presidential campaigns. In this article, we detail how the Bush and Kerry camps strategically scheduled spouses in the final days of the campaign—from Labor Day until Election Day. We conclude with some thoughts about what to expect in 2008.
Electronic chips for electric motor control

A wide range of integrated devices has become available for the control of electric motors. The article presents an overview of such devices, with an emphasis on the control functions that are implemented and on the differences between chips serving similar purposes.
Effect of hydraulic milking on milking performance, teat condition and lipolysis

The term 'hydraulic milking' describes a new milking concept in which liner movement is restricted and the liner is flooded with milk beneath the teat. This condition, achieved with a multi-valve claw without air admission to the cluster, reduced milking time by 26% and increased milk flow rate by 20%. Four experiments describe the discovery of hydraulic milking and investigate its potential using equal or different levels of vacuum in the milkline and pulseline. Benefits from hydraulic milking include decreased lipolysis (less than or equal to 36%) and milk foam (75%), improved teat condition and a high degree of protection against machine-induced infections. Evidence of increased milk yield is inconclusive. Cluster removal is impeded by hydraulic milking and the multi-valve cluster requires modification to facilitate the process. Pulsation characteristics and vacuum levels developed for conventional milking appear adequate for hydraulic milking. Unorthodox vacuum conditions may be needed, however, to exploit fully this novel milking concept.
Electroporation of Murine Embryonic Stem Cells: A Step-by-Step Guide

The manipulation of embryonic stem (ES) cells to generate targeted mutations via homologous recombination has proved an invaluable resource for researchers from fields as diverse as embryology, immunology, physiology, and biophysics. The derivation and culture of these cells has been described in many places, but there is no substitute for hands-on experience. In lieu of that, here we provide a step-by-step guide for the technique of electroporation, complete with micrographs of the cells at each step of the process. This is intended to allow the first time ES cell worker, as well as the more experienced researcher, to view the morphology of ES cells under ideal conditions as well as when the cells are suboptimal and should be discarded.
Phase Transitions in Liquid Crystals

Let me begin with a few words which will be discouraging to He physicists. In contrast to superfluid 3He, liquid crystals are plentiful, inexpensive, and copious in variety. By synthesis, one can readily create new species. There are a large number of phases, each with its own peculiar properties. Experiments are done at ordinary temperatures, using easily accessible magnetic fields and relatively unsophisticated apparatus. All the challenges reside in the physics of the substances themselves, rather than the techniques required for unveiling the physics. Note that I have said a mouthful without even mentioning technological or biomedical applications.
Summary of Panel Discussion and Commentary

In summing up the lessons learned at this meeting, I would like to pass up further discussion of the symposium I chaired and comment instead on the overall theme of the conference: the comparison of “perceived” vs. “actual” risk.
'Men usually say that HIV testing is for women': gender dynamics and perceptions of HIV testing in Lesotho.

In Lesotho, men have lower HIV testing rates, less contact with HIV clinical settings and less knowledge of HIV prevention than women. However, women's HIV prevalence has consistently remained higher than men's. This paper explores gender norms, sexual decision-making and perceptions of HIV among a sample of Basotho men and women in order to understand how these factors influence HIV testing and prevention. A total of 200 women and 30 men were interviewed in Lesotho between April and July 2011. Participants reported reluctance among women to share information about HIV prevention and testing with men, and resistance of men to engage with testing and/or prevention services. Findings demonstrate a critical need for educational initiatives for men, among other strategies, to engage men with HIV testing and prevention. This study highlights how gender issues shape perceptions of HIV and sexual decision-making and underlines the importance of engaging men along with women in HIV prevention efforts. More studie...
Syntheses of Two Potential Ligands for Tc-99m Labeling as Diagnosis Agents of Alzheimer's Disease†

Two types of ligands-biphenyl and stilbene derivatives, which can be labeled with Tc-99m for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been synthesized successfully. The key steps in these two syntheses involved Suzuki reaction and Wittig reaction respectively. The new discovered debromination reaction may be expanded to the compounds with double or triple bond adjacent to the carbon atom bearing the bromine atoms. These types of syntheses provide a route to a series of biphenyl and stilbene derivatives that will benefit the search of new imaging agents for AD.
Synthesis and evaluation of derivatives of leucine enkephalin as potential affinity labels for δ opioid receptors

As part of an effort to develop peptide-based affinity labels for opioid receptors, [Leu(5)]enkephalin (LeuEnk) and DTLET (Tyr-D-Thr-Gly-Phe-Leu-Thr), potent agonists for delta receptors, were selected as the parent peptides for further modification. The affinity label derivatives were prepared using standard Fmoc solid-phase peptide synthesis in conjunction with Fmoc-Phe(p-NHAlloc) (Fmoc: 9-flourenylmethoxycarbonyl;) and selective modification of the p-amino group on this residue. The electrophilic isothiocyanate and bromoacetamide groups were introduced into the para position of Phe(4); the corresponding free amine-containing peptides were also prepared for comparison. The pure peptides were evaluated in radioligand binding assays using Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing delta and micro opioid receptors. Modification of Phe(4) in LeuEnk and DTLET significantly decreased delta-receptor binding affinity (40 to >2,000-fold). Among the synthesized analogues, [Phe(p-NH(2))(4)]DTLET showed the highest delta-receptor binding affinity (IC(50) = 39 nM) and enhanced selectivity for delta receptors compared to DTLET while other derivatives exhibited much lower delta receptor affinity. The differences in affinities between the two series of analogues and between the derivatives of LeuEnk and N,N-dibenzyl[Leu(5)]Enk reported previously suggest subtle differences in interactions of Phe(4) with delta receptors depending on other modifications in the sequences.
An Experimental Investigation of the Effect of Stress on Saving and Acquiring Behavioral Tendencies: The Role of Distress Tolerance and Negative Urgency☆

Stress has been implicated as a risk factor for hoarding, although past research has relied on cross-sectional and self-report designs. Using experimental methods and objective hypothetical behavioral hoarding paradigms, we investigated the direct effect of stress on in-the-moment saving and acquiring behavioral tendencies. We also evaluated whether distress tolerance (DT) and negative urgency interacted with stress to predict saving and acquiring behavioral tendencies. A sample of young adults (N=80) completed questionnaires about DT and negative urgency. Participants were randomized to either a psychosocial stressor or nonstressful control task prior to completing two hypothetical behavioral hoarding paradigms. The discarding task asked participants to choose between saving and disposing of items. For the acquiring task, participants completed a computer-simulated shopping spree that measured items acquired. Unexpectedly, participants in the stress condition saved and acquired fewer items than those in the control condition. As hypothesized, stress interacted with DT to predict saving tendencies. The current study should be replicated in a clinical sample. Longitudinal studies are needed to further examine the long-term effect of stress on hoarding. This is the first examination of the direct effect of stress on saving and acquiring tendencies. Although some study hypotheses were not supported, several results are consistent with our predictions and suggest a complex relationship between stress and hoarding. If findings are replicated in a clinical sample, it may be that hoarding patients could benefit from treatments incorporating DT strategies.
Comparison of two methods for detection of North Atlantic Right Whale upcalls

In this paper, a study is carried out for detecting North Atlantic Right Whale upcalls with measurements from passive acoustic monitoring devices. Preprocessed spectrograms of upcalls are subjected to two different tasks, one of which is based on extraction of time-frequency features from upcall contours, and the other that employs a Local Binary Pattern operator to extract salient texture features of the upcalls. Then several classifiers are used to evaluate the effectiveness of both the contour-based and texture-based features for upcall detection. Detection results reveal that popular classifiers such as Linear Discriminant Analysis, Support Vector Machine, and TreeBagger can achieve high detection rates. Furthermore, using LBP features for call detection shows improved accuracy of about 3% to 4% over time-frequency features when an identical classifier is used.
Revision to the UK DEn Guidance Notes

The UK Department of Energy is revising the Guidance Notes that it issues as a basis for the Certification of Offshore Structures. WS Atkins were contracted to prepare a new section on fluid loading and to produce a supporting background document. A working group was set up with representatives from designers, oil companies, certifying authorities and research institutions to provide advice and guidance as the work progressed. The working group also provided a forum for preliminary consultation with interested parties with respect to the guidance notes themselves. British Maritime Technology and Lloyds Register of Shipping, who were represented on the steering committee, also produced papers that formed the basis of some of the material in the background document.
Streamlining the Sales Tax: Implications for Economic Growth

The author reviews various plans for streamlining the sales tax. He writes that the Streamlined Sales Tax Project's proposals are good, but that proposals by Charles E. McLure Jr. of Stanford University are even better.