cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Robust Reinforcement Learning for Stochastic Linear Quadratic Control with Multiplicative Noise

This chapter studies the robustness of reinforcement learning for discrete-time linear stochastic systems with multiplicative noise evolving in continuous state and action spaces. As one of the popular methods in reinforcement learning, the robustness of policy iteration is a longstanding open problem for the stochastic linear quadratic regulator (LQR) problem with multiplicative noise. A solution in the spirit of input-to-state stability is given, guaranteeing that the solutions of the policy iteration algorithm are bounded and enter a small neighborhood of the optimal solution, whenever the error in each iteration is bounded and small. In addition, a novel off-policy multiple-trajectory optimistic least-squares policy iteration algorithm is proposed, to learn a near-optimal solution of the stochastic LQR problem directly from online input/state data, without explicitly identifying the system matrices. The efficacy of the proposed algorithm is supported by rigorous convergence analysis and numerical results on a second-order example.
Nondestructive characterization on multilayer thin films by x-ray reflectivity

The X-ray reflectivity technique was used to study the annealing effect on layer structure of Ta/FeMn/NiFe/Cu/NiFe/Ta multilayer thin films on Si substrates. High-resolution specular reflectivity data were collected and analyzed by least-squares refinement. Results on layer thickness, density and roughness were obtained and correlated with the magnetic properties of the films. 10 refs., 5 figs.
Longitudinal Data Analysis

In this essay we review some of the emerging trends in modeling repeated measures data. Three general forms of longitudinal models are discussed: panel model designs, growth curve models, and intensive within-person assessments. Each section discusses design elements that should be considered when using each of these types of longitudinal models, and introduces some emerging trends. In the section on panel designs, continuous time models and planned missing data models are introduced; these ideas will revolutionize the modeling and collection of panel data. In the section on growth curve models, the necessity of separately evaluating mean and covariance model fit is discussed. This section also introduces methods being used to carefully consider the time of measurements in temporal designs. Finally, the budding analysis of intensive within individual observations is considered, including recent work from mathematics that limits the generalizability of interindividual studies to individual outcomes. Keywords: longitudinal; structural equation modeling; latent variable modeling; cross-lagged and auto-regressive panel modeling; growth curve modeling; continuous time modeling; dynamical systems modeling
Comparison of ICD implantation in obese and nonobese patients.

Background Implantable defibrillator (ICD) therapy improves mortality in patients at risk for sudden cardiac death. Obese patients pose challenges during ICD implantation and may have an increased risk of procedure-related complications. The comparison of acute procedural success and safety of ICD implantation in obese and nonobese patients has not been previously reported. Methods A total of 181 patients underwent ICD implantation at a single institution. Obesity was defined as a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2. Acute safety and efficacy data were collected and analyzed from a prospectively maintained database, with retrospective chart review, as required. Results Among the 181 patients, 58 (32.0%) were obese. Mean BMI was 36.7 ± 6.3 kg/m2 among obese patients and was 24.6 ± 3.1 kg/m2 among nonobese patients (P < 0.001). Successful ICD implantation occurred in 58 of 58 (100%) obese patients and 122 of 123 (99.2%) nonobese patients (P = 1.0). A complication was observed in three of 58 (5.2%) obese patients and in seven of 123 (5.7%) nonobese patients (P = 1.0). Similarly, there was no difference in acute procedural success and safety in patients receiving a cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT)-ICD. Conclusions Acute success and safety of ICD implantation is similar in both obese and nonobese patients. This finding extended to patients treated with a CRT-ICD and among patients with extreme obesity. Obesity should probably not be a factor in determining whether a patient is a candidate for ICD implantation.
Abstract P5-04-07: Multispectral imaging allows visualization and quantification of multiple immunologic cell types in breast tumor tissues

Background: Multiple studies have identified tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in breast cancer and shown them to have prognostic and predictive significance. TIL are comprised of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, regulatory T cells (Treg) and B cells. To date, the majority of studies have identified TIL using HE San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(9 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-04-07.
Sheet-beam Electron Gun Design for Millimeter and Sub-millimeter Wave Vacuum Electronic Sources

We investigate the application of sheet beams to slow wave sources as a means to increase output power. Our interest is for compact vacuum electronic devices in the millimeter and submillimeter regimes. We consider previous work done on orotrons, clinitrons & backward wave oscillators, and investigate methods to enhance operation into the submillimeter region of the spectrum. We use MICHELLE to model ~40 micron thin sheet beams for such devices
Darfur and the Crime of Genocide

Prologue: on our watch 1. Darfur crime scenes 2. The crime of crimes 3. While criminology slept 4. Flipflopping Darfur 5. Eye-witnessing genocide 6. The rolling genocide 7. The racial spark 8. Global shadows Epilogue: collective R2P.
Supporting Polyploidy in Genetic Algorithms Using Dominance Vectors

By memorizing alleles that have been successful in the past, polyploidy has been found to be beneficial for adapting to changing environments. This paper explores the benefits of using polyploidy in Genetic Algorithms. Polyploidy is provided in our approach by using a local chromosome to reflect dominance in diploid and tetraploid organisms, with and without evolving crossover points, added to provide linkage between chromosomes and the dominance control vector. We compare our polyploid approach to a haploid implementation for a benchmark that involves a 0/1 knapsack problem with time varying weight constraints.
The Utility of Gene Expression in Blood Cells for Diagnosing Neuropsychiatric Disorders

Objective diagnostic tools are required for neuropsychiatric disorders. Gene expression in blood cells may provide such a tool and has already been used to construct classifiers capable of diagnosing many human diseases. This chapter discusses the use of microarray gene expression data to construct diagnostic classifiers for neuropsychiatric disorders. The potential pitfalls of microarray gene expression analysis and the experimental design and methods suitable for classifier construction are described in detail. A review of studies that have analyzed gene expression in blood cells from patients with neuropsychiatric disorders is presented with an emphasis on the feasibility of generating a diagnostic classifier for schizophrenia. Finally, the future directions of the field are discussed with respect to using blood gene expression to tailor antipsychotic medications to individual patients, applying microRNA expression for diagnostic purposes, as well as the implications of next-generation sequencing technologies for gene expression analysis.
Small Ribosomal Ribonucleic Acid Species of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Yeast ribosomes contain two small molecular-weight species of ribonucleic acid (RNA), in addition to transiently associated transfer RNA. The 5S RNA species is part of the large ribosomal subunit and appears to be exactly the same size as 5S RNA from other organisms. There is another RNA molecule, approximately 5.8S or 150 nucleotides in size, which is noncovalently attached to the 25S ribosomal RNA and can be freed by gentle heating or urea treatment. Neither 5 nor 5.8S RNA are methylated. The 5.8S RNA is probably derived from a part of the 35S precursor RNA, whereas the 5S RNA is made de novo. These results substantiate the notion that ribosome biosynthesis in yeast is analogous to that of the higher eukaryotes.
Automotive semiconductor switch technologies

The automotive electronics intelligent power market is both large and varied, with currents from as low as 100 mA to higher than 30 A. Throughout this range there is a requirement for high and low-side drivers and bridge configurations. To meet the needs of these applications several integrated circuit technologies are employed. These include standard bipolar, power BIDFET, planar power and multidie. The comparative features of these technologies are discussed, showing each is suited to particular segments, and how together they fulfill the needs of the automotive market. >
Influence of a ground‐based VLF radio transmitter on the inner electron radiation belt

[1] Observed signatures of electron precipitation from the inner radiation belt are shown to be consistent with the theory of resonant scattering by whistler-mode plasma waves, assuming the waves originate in VLF radio transmissions from the ground station NWC. The conclusion is based on a stochastic model of electron transport that includes pitch angle diffusion, radial diffusion, energy loss, and azimuthal drift. The wave scattering causes an increase in quasi-trapped electron intensity, forming the “wisp” signature, and a corresponding decrease in stably trapped intensity at low altitude. A smaller decrease at high altitude is expected to be obscured by inward radial diffusion. If NWC were shut down, the resulting increase in stably trapped electron intensity would be minimal.
Semantic Externalism and Knowing Our Own Minds: Ignoring Twin‐Earth and Doing Naturalistic Philosophy

In this article I offer a naturalistic defence of semantic externalism. I argue against the following: (1) arguments for externalism rest mainly on conceptual analysis; (2) the community conceptual norms relevant to individuation of propositional attitudes are quasi-analytic; (3) externalism raises serious questions about knowledge of propositional attitudes; and (4) externalism might be OK for “folk psychology” but not for cognitive science. The naturalist alternatives are as follows. (1) Community norms are not anything like a priori; sometimes they are incoherent. (2) Often propositional attitudes lack determinate content: we do not know the content of thoughts or sentences because there is no fully definite content to be known. (3) Often achieving determinate content is a major socially mediated cognitive achievement that depends on just the factors of social and environmental embedding posited as individuative by externalists, so (4) externalism explains how people can, sometimes, come to have, and to know, determinate attitude contents. (5) Reference and content, for both thought and language, are determined by complex and messy dialectical relations involving many such environmental and social factors; consequently, determinate reference, truth-conditions, etc., are somewhat uncommon outcomes. (6) The basic semantic relation is (typically imperfect) socially mediated accommodation between perceptual, cognitive, linguistic, classificatory and inferential dispositions and relevant causal structures in the environment. (7) This accommodation explains how concepts, language, taxonomies, etc., contribute to individuals' rational inductive, explanatory and practical achievements. (8) So externally individuated propositional attitudes are required for cognitive science explanations of individual human rationality and its inductive and explanatory achievements. “Individual rationality ain't (entirely) in the individual head.”
Identification of DNA Recognition Sequences and Protein Interaction Domains of the Multiple-Zn-Finger Protein Roaz

Roaz, a rat C2H2 zinc finger protein, plays a role in the regulation of olfactory neuronal differentiation through its interaction with the Olf-1/EBF transcription factor family. An additional role for the Roaz/Olf-1/EBF heterodimeric protein is suggested by its ability to regulate gene activation at a distinct promoter lacking Olf-1/EBF-binding sites. Using an in vitro binding-site selection assay (Selex), we demonstrate that Roaz protein binds to novel inverted perfect or imperfect repeats of GCACCC separated by 2 bp. We show that Roaz is capable of binding to a canonical consensus recognition sequence with high affinity (Kd = 3 nM). Analysis of the structural requirement for protein dimerization and DNA binding by Roaz reveals the role of specific zinc finger motifs in the Roaz protein for homodimerization and heterodimerization with the Olf-1/EBF transcription factor. The DNA-binding domain of Roaz is mapped to the N-terminal 277 amino acids, containing the first seven zinc finger motifs, which confers weak monomeric binding to a single half site and a stronger dimeric binding to the inverted repeat in a binding-site-dependent manner. Full-length protein can form dimers on both the inverted repeat and direct repeat but not on a single half site. These findings support the role of the TFIIIA-type Zn fingers in both protein-protein interaction and protein-DNA interaction and suggest distinct functions for specific motifs in proteins with a large number of zinc finger structures.
Persistent ischemic stroke disparities despite declining incidence in Mexican Americans

Objective To determine trends in ischemic stroke incidence among Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic whites.
The Rydberg series of helium-like Cl, Ar and S and their high-n satellites in tokamak plasmas

The Rydberg series up to n = 14 of helium-like chlorine, argon and sulfur have been observed in Alcator C-Mod plasmas. High-n satellites to these lines of the form 1s22s-1s2snp and 1s22p-1s2pnp with 3 n12 have also been seen for chlorine and argon. Accurate wavelengths of these satellites have been obtained, comparison has been made with the theoretical predictions from the atomic structure codes RELAC and MZ, and the agreement is good. Measured line intensities have also been compared with collisional radiative modelling that includes the contributions from dielectronic recombination and inner-shell excitation rates to each line's emission, again with good agreement.
Generalized automatism evoked in cat from temporal depth electrodes.

Abstract 1. 1. Stimulation of electrodes implanted at five sites in cat amygdala and hippocampus resulted in a generalized automatism with a certain electrographic concomitant. 2. 2. The automatism consisted of coordinated, contraversive circling with growling, urination, grooming, and panting. This could last as long as 4 min. 3. 3. The recorded action potentials occurred an about 3/sec. and were propagated to both ipsilateral and contralateral areas with little delay. 4. 4. The loci producing the generalized automatism seemed extremely sensitive to anesthetic agents. 5. 5. The amygdala loci are thought to be nuclei in the anterior-medial division of amygdala, together with other, unknown, components of amygdala-hippocampus-pyriform cortex which were indirectly stimulated.
Ostwald ripening of cobalt precipitates in silica aerogels? An ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering study

Monolithic silica aerogels with radial symmetry were synthesized by supercritical drying, doped to 2% and 10% with cobalt, and reduced with hydrogen. All samples were investigated with ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering. The non-doped aerogels have three populations of scatterers with radii of gyration of about 10, 40 and 60-70 A. The doped aerogels show an additional structure with a radius of gyration ranging from 1050 to 3000 A. This structure causes intensity oscillations, thus revealing a relatively narrow size distribution. Scattering curves of the 10%-doped aerogels fitted well to a Lifshitz-Slyozov-Wagner particle size distribution, thus revealing that Ostwald ripening might have occurred during aerogel preparation. The same range also shows differences depending on whether the samples were reduced, or in their as-prepared condition. Scattering curves obtained from the cylinder-axis region were different from the scattering curves obtained from the sample boundary, indicating a process-dependent skin effect.
NUCLEOPROTEIN SYNTHESIS IN THE NEW-BORN MOUSE.

THE proceedings of the first World Conference on Histone Biology and Chemistry were summarized in a recent article by Bonner and Ts'o1. Part of the reported discussion dealt with the probable relationship between DNA replication and histone synthesis. It was pointed out that 5-fluorodeoxyuridine blocks DNA synthesis but allows the synthesis of histone to proceed in an essentially normal manner. This evidence was cited to support the view that DNA replication and histone synthesis are not necessarily coupled although they usually accompany one another. Similar conclusions have been reached by Plaut2, who investigated the pattern of nucleoprotein synthesis in Drosophila polytene chromosomes by means of the pulse-labelling technique. He found that the labelling patterns resulting from brief exposures to tritiated precursors of DNA (H3 thymidine) and protein (H3 lysine, H3 histidine) were distinctly different. In summary, DNA labelling was often restricted to certain sites along the chromosome, while protein labelling was found to be more or less continuous. The present report, based on the results of cytophotometric investigations, furnishes further evidence in support of the view that DNA replication and histone synthesis may not be coupled.
A new and improved synthesis of 19-iodocholesterol 3-acetate.

Abstract 19-Iodocholesterol 3-acetate (VI) was synthesized in a single step by iodo group substitution for hydroxyl using either one of two different reagents:(1) carbodiimidonium methiodide (VIII) or (2) triphenyl-phosphine/N-iodosuccinimide (IX). The yields were as satisfactory as those obtained from the two step iodide replacement of a 19-hydroxy group via the 19-tosyloxy group. The principal intermediate, 19-hydroxy cholesterol 3-acetate (V), was derived in appreciable quantities, and relatively inexpensively, through the Pb (OCOCH 3 ) photolytic oxidation of the bromohydrin of cholesterol 3-acetate ( 4 III) to the epoxide (IV) thence Zn reduction to the 19-hydroxy compound. A specially designed 12 liter flask was of aid in accomplishing the photolysis reaction. Dry column chromatography with the supportive puncture sampling was integral to achieving the good yields and high purity of 19-iodocholesterol (VIII).
Locus of control as a factor in the appreciation of election year political cartoons

Summary.-Reference group membership has been viewed as the major factor influencing appreciation of political cartoons in an election year. This study examined the variable of locus of control in relation to appreciation of political cartoons among 80 men and 80 women undergraduates who were undecided potential voters during the 1992 presidential campaign. Internal scorers showed greater appreciation; men and women showed different patterns of response. During a presidential campaign, political cartoonists present a number of images which are derogatory to the various candidates. The political cartoon is considered to be an avenue of hostility (Duden, 1985) and intense political beliefs (Schulz, 1977). The few studies focused on the appreciation of political cartoons have utllized reference group theory to explain cartoons' appeal to individuals (Priest, 1966; Priest & Abrahams, 1970). The purpose of this study was to examine appreciation of political cartoons among a group of undecided potential voters as a function of locus of control. The presidential campaign of 1792 with candidates Bush, Clinton, and Perot served as a backdrop for this study. Phares (1976) has provided support that locus of control is reliably related to the style of cognitive activity exhibited by individuals. Internal scorers have been reported to be more attentive than external scorers to events and in assimilating negative information (Lefcourt, Sordoni, & Sordoni, 1774). Prerost (1783b) showed that internal scorers show greater humor appreciation and can see more humor in frustrating circumstances than external scorers. Since Duden (1785) demonstrated that political cartoons can achieve high hostility and cognitive complexity, the internal scorer appears well suited for the appreciation of this humor form.
Consent regime inevitable for marine research

Abstract An analysis of the negotiations at the United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea concerning the conduct of marine scientific research. The author attends the UNCLOS meetings as a Technical advisor to the Government of Liberia.
The Noble-Mengert-Fish operation—Revisited: A composite approach for persistent rectovaginal fistulas and complex perineal defects

Abstract Objective: Our aims were to evaluate the full-thickness anterior rectal wall advancement flap in the treatment of primary and recurrent or persistent rectovaginal fistulas, evaluate the surgical exposure for composite repair of site-specific perineal defects, and categorize clinical manifestations of site-specific perineal defects caused by obstetric injury. Study Design: This is a prospective study of all patients with fecal incontinence from rectovaginal septal defects and complex perineal obstetric injuries treated by the Noble-Mengert-Fish operation. Results: Thirty-four patients were classified into groups on the basis of site-specific perineal defects. Anatomic success was 94.2%. Functional success was excellent in 76.5%, good in 14.7%, fair in 5.9%, and poor in 2.9%. Conclusion: The Noble-Mengert-Fish operation is effective for primary and recurrent or persistent rectovaginal fistulas. The circumanal surgical exposure permits concomitant repair of all perineal defects. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998;179:1411-7.)
Generation Of Subnanosecond Excimer Laser Pulses By Means Of Stimulated Brillouin Scattering In Liquids

The development of truncated stimulated Brillouin scattering (TRUBS) as a means of producing subnanosecond laser pulses is described. Recent experiments carried out with a frequency doubled excimer-pumped dye laser system, incorporating a single longitudinal mode oscillator, and a single stage of amplification in a XeCe gain module have yielded subnanosecond (-100 ps) UV pulses with an energy of -2 mJ as well as lower energy pulses shorter than 50 ps. The technique shows considerable promise as a reliable means of obtaining excimer laser pulses in the 10-50 ps range.
Generalized Shooting Method for Analyzing Compliant Mechanisms With Curved Members

We consider here a class of compliant mechanisms consisting of one or more flexible beams, the manipulation of which relies on the deflection of the flexible beams. As compared with traditional rigid-body mechanisms, compliant mechanisms have the advantages of no relative moving parts and thus involve no wear, backlash, noises, and lubrication. This paper presents a formulation based on shooting method (SM) and two numerical solvers for analyzing compliant mechanisms consisting of multiple flexible members that may be initially straight or curved. Five compliant mechanisms, which are chosen to illustrate both initially straight and curved members and different types of joint/contact conditions, are formulated to exemplify analyses using the generalized shooting method for a wide spectrum of applications. The advantages of the generalized SM over the finite difference FD and finite element FE methods are demonstrated numerically. Unlike FD or FE methods that rely on fine discretization of beam members to improve its accuracy, the generalized SM that treats the boundary value problem (BVP) as an initial value problem can achieve higher-order accuracy relatively easily, and hence is more efficient computationally. In addition, the computed results were validated experimentally. It is expected that the generalized SM presented here will offer designers a useful analysis tool, and will effectively facilitate the process of design and optimization of compliant mechanisms. DOI: 10.1115/1.2202139
Potential of light-harvesting proton pumps for bioenergy applications

Concerns about the security and longevity of traditional energy sources have increased interest in alternative methods of energy production, particularly those which utilize abundantly available solar energy. Solar energy can be harvested either indirectly through the conversion of plant or algal byproducts into biofuels or directly using engineered microorganisms. Here we summarize the main features of light-harvesting proton pumps, which may provide a relatively simple way to boost the efficiency of energy-limited biological processes in fuel production. This family of proton pumps, which includes bacteriorhodopsin and proteorhodopsin, directly uses light energy to create a proton motive force (pmf) which can be used by other enzymes to facilitate active transport, regulate transmembrane proteins, or to generate ATP and NADH.
Comparison of Mexican Wolf and Coyote Diets in Arizona and New Mexico

Interactions between wolves (Canis lupus) and coyotes (C. latrans) can have significant impacts on their distribution and abundance. We compared diets of recently translocated Mexican wolves (C. l. baileyi) with diets of resident coyotes in Arizona and New Mexico, USA. We systematically collected scats during 2000 and 2001. Coyote diet was composed mostly of mammalian species, followed by vegetation and insects. Elk (Cervus elaphus) was the most common item in coyote scats. Mexican wolf diet had a higher proportion of large mammals and fewer small mammals than coyote diet; however, elk was also the most common food item in Mexican wolf scats. Our results suggest that Mexican wolf diet was more similar to coyote diet than previously reported, but coyotes had more seasonal variation. Considering results in other areas, we expect that Mexican wolves will have a negative impact on coyotes through direct mortality and possibly competition. Reintroduction of Mexican wolves may have great impacts on communities by changing relationships among other predators and their prey.
Melting and rippling phenomena in two-dimensional crystals with localized bonding

We calculate root-mean-square deviations from equilibrium for atoms in a two-dimensional crystal with local (e.g., covalent) bonding between close neighbors. Large-scale Monte Carlo calculations are in good agreement with analytical results obtained in the harmonic approximation. When motion is restricted to the plane, we find a slow (logarithmic) increase in fluctuations of the atoms about their equilibrium positions as the crystals are made larger and larger. We take into account fluctuations perpendicular to the lattice plane, manifest as undulating ripples, by examining dual-layer systems with coupling between the layers to impart local rigidity (i.e., as in sheets of graphene made stiff by their finite thickness). Surprisingly, we find a rapid divergence with increasing system size in the vertical mean-square deviations, independent of the strength of the interplanar coupling. We consider an attractive coupling to a flat substrate, finding that even a weak attraction significantly limits the amplitude and average wavelength of the ripples. We verify our results are generic by examining a variety of distinct geometries, obtaining the same phenomena in each case.
Automatic new word acquisition: spelling from acoustics

The problem of extending the lexicon of words in an automatic speech recognition system is commonly referred to as the new word problem. When encountered in the context of an embedded speech recognition system this problem can be be divided into the following sub-problems. First, identify the presence of a new word. Second, acquire a phonetic transcription of the new word. Third, acquire the orthographic transcription (spelling) of the new word. In this paper we present the results of a preliminary study that employs a novel approach to the problem of acquiring the orthographic transcription through the use of an n-gram language model of english spelling and a quad-letter labeling of acoustic models that when taken together potentially produce an acoustic to spelling transcription of any spoken input.
Selection of S-(2-aminoethyl)-l-cysteine tolerance in embryogenic calli and regenerated plants of Pennisetum purpureum schum

Abstract Embryogenic callus tissues of Pennisetum purpureum were selected for tolerance to S-(2-Aminoethyl)-L-cysteine (AEC). Calli were selected after 18 weeks on media containing 0.125, 0.25 and 0.50 mM of AEC. AEC tolerant calli readily regenerated green shoots on regeneration medium both with and without the AEC. Leaves from tolerant mature regenerants formed embryogenic calli at high frequencies on AEC containing medium. The tolerant calli as well as the regenerants contained 21 to 47% more free lysine than that of the controls as determined by amino acid analysis.
Calculation of the concentrated flux density distribution in parabolic trough collectors by a semifinite formulation

Abstract A first integral of the concentrated radiant flux density for trough concentrators is derived by exploiting the symmetry of these cylindrical systems. The resulting semifinite formulation yields both conceptual advantages and computational efficiency. The formulation is illustrated by application to the parabolic trough concentrator. The elementary example of determining the concentrated flux density at the nominal focal plane is first considered. The more realistic case of a round absorber tube, which can shade the reflector, centered on the focal line is also studied. This more practical geometry, which corresponds to most commercial designs, has previously received little attention in the open literature. These applications illustrate that the semifinite formulation presented herein can be a simple and useful tool for the analysis and design of trough concentrators.
Synergistic Effects of Lifetime Psychiatric Disorders on Suicidal Ideation Among Blacks in the USA

In this study, we aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of lifetime psychiatric disorders including general anxiety disorder (GAD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and drug abuse disorder (DAD) on serious suicidal thoughts among a nationally representative sample of Blacks in the USA. For this study, we used data of 5,181 Black (3,570 African-American and 1,621 Caribbean Black) adults who participated in the National Survey of American Life (NSAL), 2001–2003. Three lifetime psychiatric disorders (i.e., MDD, GAD, and DAD) were considered as independent variables. Lifetime serious suicidal ideation was considered as the dependent variable. Age, gender, ethnicity, education, employment, marital status, and region were control variables. Logistic regression was used to determine separate, additive, and synergistic effects of GAD, MDD, and DAD on serious suicidal thoughts. Individuals with comorbid GAD and MDD [odds ratio (OR) = 3.61, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 1.26–10.33], GAD and DAD (OR = 3.22, 95 % CI = 1.05–9.85), and MDD and DAD (OR = 2.25, 95 % CI = 1.16–4.35) were at highest risk of suicidal ideation. In the absence of GAD and MDD, DAD was associated with higher odds of suicidal ideation (OR = 3.55, 95 % CI = 2.15–5.87); however, in the absence of DAD, neither GAD nor MDD was associated with suicidal ideation. Gender also modified the synergistic effects of GAD, MDD, and DAD on suicidal ideation. Based on our study, GAD, MDD, and DAD have synergistic effects on suicidal thoughts among Blacks. Results may have implications for the reduction of suicide due to psychiatric disorders among Blacks.
6Å molecular sieve properties of saran-type carbons

Abstract The results of a molecular probe study on two Saran carbons prepared up to 1000°C and on polyvinylidene chloride carbons prepared up to 1500°C are reported. The Saran carbons adsorb appreciably more isobutane than neopentane over the whole carbonization range, indicating 6A molecular sieve properties. Benzene and cyclohexane are also adsorbed to an appreciably greater extent than neopentane. Polyvinylidene chloride carbons prepared at comparable temperatures adsorb neopentane freely; neopentane molecular sieve effects are only observed for samples heated above 1200°C. It is concluded that the observed molecular sieve effects are due to slit-shaped pore constrictions having a size between ca. 4·5 and 5·7A in thickness and connecting cavities of at least ca. 12A in thickness.
Variability in the molecular organization of the 5S RNA genes among strains of Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract The organization of the 5S RNA cluster has been analyzed in four strains of Drosophila melanogaster by the Southern technique. In some of the strains the 5S RNA cluster appears to be interrupted by an unrelated sequence. In other strains a continuous cluster is present.
Laser experiments and various four-dimensional symmetries

The structures of space and time associated with various four-dimensional symmetries are constructed and examined. It is interesting that some of these four-dimensional symmetries are compatible with the existence of an aether in the Einstein sense. There are two classes of infinitely many four-dimensional symmetries that cannot be ruled out by previous experiments. We discuss some laser experiments that test these two classes of four-dimensional symmetries. An interesting connection between the nonclassical aether and gravity through the equality of inertial and gravitational mass is explored.
Idiopathic retinal dialysis.

Abstract: Idiopathic retinal dialyses accounted for 1.8% of 1,789 eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachments diagnosed in two institutions over the 6-year period from 1972 through 1977. These detachments characteristically occur in the inferotemporal quadrant of young adult eyes and often are associated with demarcation lines, retinal cysts, peripheral microcystoid degeneration, and yellow-white vitreous opacities. This study provides additional evidence that a distinct type of retinal detachment secondary to nontraumatic retinal dialyses exists. The authors believe that these dialyses probably are secondary to a developmental abnormality of the inferotemporal periphery of the retina and vitreous base. Trauma may precipitate these dialyses but is not the primary cause.
Microbalance studies of diamond nucleation and growth rates

In situ measurements of diamond nucleation and growth rates using a microbalance within a hot-filament reactor were made. Methane, acetylene, ethylene and ethane in hydrogen, with and without the addition of oxygen, were used as source gases. The measured reaction orders strongly support the view that the bulk of the atom addition is by single-carbon species, e.g. CH3. The reaction order shifts to zero at high hydrocarbon concentrations, suggesting that diamond growth is a surface-site-limited process. Diamond nucleation on virgin substrates shows an initial period in whichd2/Mdt2< 0, which is attributed to the incorporation of carbon into the substrate.
Smoke management in office buildings

Design considerations for smoke control systems have been addressed by numerous researchers and practicing engineers. However, papers discussing the actual observed performance of smoke control systems are less frequently encountered. The following three papers address the testing of smoke control systems from two perspectives. First, suggested procedures for testing smoke control systems are described relative to test methodology, system parameters requiring evaluation, and measurement systems. Second, the performance of actual systems is described as observed in tests.
Students as Clients in a Professional/Client Relationship:

In this article, the author suggests the use of a professional/client metaphor for conceptualizing the relationship of professors and students. The framework suggested by the use of this metaphor provides a useful and explicit alternative to the problematic student-as-customer metaphor. The advantages of invoking this metaphor are illustrated by discussing the professional/client relationship in general and by discussing four specific cases of professional/client relationships. Suggestions are provided for inculcating a professional/client atmosphere in the classroom.
Direct Simulation Monte Carlo Simulations of Ballute Aerothermodynamics Under Hypersonic Rarefied Conditions

This paper presents computational results obtained with the direct simulation Monte Carlo method for towed ballute applications. A ballute is an inflatable drag device that can be used to create a large amount of drag at high altitudes. Consequently, ballutes provide a potential technology for achieving aerocapture when the primary spacecraft velocity reduction ( V) is achieved at much higher altitudes than with the conventional rigid aeroshell. Because the V is achieved at relatively high altitudes, rarefaction can be significant and is the motivation for the current study with the direct simulationMonte Carlo method. Computed surface and flowfield results are presented for a toroidal ballute, isolated tethers when exposed to freestream flow conditions, and the flow interactions resulting from a toroidal ballute when towed by a 6 m diameter Mars Pathfinder shaped (without tethers) spacecraft. All results presented are for Earth entry at velocities of 14 to 7 km=s (primary focus is at 8:55 km=s, same as some previous Titan aerocapture studies) and altitudes of 200 to 100 km. Variations of drag and heating coefficients as a function of rarefaction are presented. Adescription of theflow structure is provided and also an explanation of how it is affected by shock interactions produced solely by the ballute and those resulting from the two body combination of towed ballute and spacecraft is also given.
Probing the elastic response of microalga Scenedesmus dimorphus in dry and aqueous environments through atomic force microscopy

With the re-emergence of microalgae as a replacement feedstock for petroleum-derived oils, researchers are working to understand its chemical and mechanical behavior. In this work, the mechanical properties of microalgae, Scenedesmus dimorphus, were investigated at the subcellular level to determine the elastic response of cells that were in an aqueous and dried state using nano-scale indentation through atomic force microscopy. The elastic modulus of single-celled S. dimorphus cells increased over tenfold from an aqueous state to a dried state, which allows us to better understand the biophysical response of microalgae to stress.
6-Hydroxydopamine lesions of the nigrostriatal pathway alter the expression of glutamate decarboxylase messenger RNA in rat globus pallidus projection neurons.

Abstract In situ hybridization was used to study the effect of 6-hydroxydopamine-induced damage to the midbrain dopaminergic neurons on the level of glutamate decarboxylase mRNA in globus pallidus neurons in the rat. Some animals received an injection of Fluoro-gold in the entopeduncular nucleus or the substantia nigra prior to the 6-hydroxydopamine lesion in order to identify glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNA levels in pallidal neurons that project to one of these targets. Analysis was carried out on a sample of all pallidal neurons as well as neurons that were identified as projection neurons in control and lesioned groups. The loss of the dopamine-containing neurons in the substantia nigra resulted in significant increases in the percentage of globus pallidus neurons that expressed glutamate decarboxylase mRNA and in the amount of glutamate decarboxylase mRNA per globus pallidus neuron. These increases were noted in a sample of all pallidal neurons, as well as pallidal neurons that were identified as projecting to either the entopeduncular nucleus or the substantia nigra. In control animals, glutamate decarboxylase mRNA was clearly identified in globus pallidus neurons projecting to the entopeduncular nucleus, indicating that this recently reported projection is at least partially GABAergic. The results of this study indicate that substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons regulate globus pallidus neurons in the rat, and that removal of the dopaminergic input to the corpus striatum results in a significant increase in the amount of glutamate decarboxylase mRNA in pallidal neurons. The decreased firing rate of pallidal neurons that is seen following the loss of dopamine input appears to be accompanied by an increase in the level of glutamate decarboxylase mRNA in these neurons.
The Indian merchant diaspora in early modern central Asia and Iran

Long before European merchants working for the Dutch and the English East India Companies sailed around the Cape of Good Hope, there were caste-based Indian family firms operating heavily-capitalized commercial institutions throughout north India. The directors of these firms enlisted many thousands of agents and placed them in markets strategic to their engagement in a variety of commercial activities, including large-scale transregional trade, brokering, money changing, and the financing of complex systems of rural credit and industrial production. Rather than triggering the decline of such indigenous commercial institutions, it is during the very period of European expansion into the Indian Ocean that the Indian family firms began to geographically diversify their portfolios by sending their agents to distant markets in port cities, villages, and major and minor urban centers as far away as Moscow. In a recent work, Stephen Dale has uncovered the existence of an early modem Indian merchant diaspora with communities dispersed throughout Central Asia, Iran, the Caucasus and much of Russia.' Several primary centers of diaspora activity emerged in those Eurasian locations most conducive to mediating transregional commerce, including Isfahan, Bandar cAbbas, Astrakhan, Qandahar, Kabul and Bukhara, each of which hosted communities of several hundred to several thousand Indian merchants. Smaller secondary diaspora communities likewise developed in other cities situated on the numerous Eurasian trade routes which pulsed with commercial activity. Dale's work clearly demonstrates the vitality of the Eurasian trade network orchestrated by north Indian merchants during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. It remains less well known, however, that in addition to the transregional movement of commodities and specie, these Indians also brought their investment capital and money-lending technology to agriculturalists and industrialists throughout the diaspora. Thus, while endeavoring to present a more nuanced understanding of
A Neural Network Model for Estimating Option Prices

A neural network model that processes financial input data is developed to estimate the market price of options at closing. The network's ability to estimate closing prices is compared to the Black-Scholes model, the most widely used model for the pricing of options. Comparisons reveal that the mean squared error for the neural network is less than that of the Black-Scholes model in about half of the cases examined. The differences and similarities in the two modeling approaches are discussed. The neural network, which uses the same financial data as the Black-Scholes model, requires no distribution assumptions and learns the relationships between the financial input data and the option price from the historical data. The option-valuation equilibrium model of Black-Scholes determines option prices under the assumptions that prices follow a continuous time path and that the instantaneous volatility is nonstochastic.
MOLECULAR MODELING OF THERMAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF ELASTOMERS: A REVIEW

ABSTRACT Elastomers have varied applications from adhesives, sealants, encapsulants, and coatings to specialty usage in electronics, aviation, optical, and communications industries due to their high structural stability. In addition, more and more biological applications of elastomeric compounds are gaining ground, particularly in mimetic architecture. Modeling and simulation provide tools by which the interactions leading to various structure–property relationships can be explored at the micro level. An understanding of these processes could cut down on the extensive and expensive trial-and-error experiments as well as provide a benchmark for material design. This review article explores the work done by different groups, especially at the molecular level, to model the properties of both thermoplastic and thermoset elastomers. Each presents its own challenges and solutions: from microphase separation to network building and force field parameterization. The results of these modeling efforts along with t...
Professional Socialization and Health Education Preparation

Abstract Professional socialization has been identified as a key component of professional preparation in other health/allied health disciplines such as medicine, dentistry, nursing, and social work. However, there is a void in health education on this issue. The purpose of this study was to begin addressing this void by examining the extent to which community health education majors are professionalized. One hundred seventy-nine students representing 15 community health education programs across the country were the sample for this investigation. The instrument used to measure extent of professionalization was the Occupation Inventory (OI). Students' scores on the OI indicated a moderate-high degree of professionalization. Of the variables, gender, class status, professional organization membership, age, program, and intention to take the CHES examination, it was the last that significantly affected the professionalization scores. Students who intended to take the CHES exam were more professionalized, mo...
Leopard Frogs raised in Partially Controlled Conditions

THE difficulty of raising leopard frogs, Rana pipiens, to maturity in controlled conditions makes them impractical for many experiments1. Tadpoles have previously died soon after metamorphosis2, but we have now raised frogs to sexual maturity with a low mortality rate. Thus sibling adults can be used for experimental purposes, and using our methods (described here) it should be possible to carry out genetic studies over several generations and to develop partially inbred lines of these laboratory animals.
Critical fluctuations and pinning effects on the vortex transport in superconducting Y-Ba-Cu-O single crystals.

The critical fluctuations and pinning effects in the vortex state of twinned superconducting Y-Ba-Cu-O single crystals are investigated. A second-order vortex-solid melting transition is manifested by the universal static and dynamic exponents \ensuremath{\nu}\ensuremath{\approxeq}2/3 and z\ensuremath{\approxeq}3 and the universal vortex-transport functions, independent of the experimental techniques and the magnitude and orientation of the applied magnetic fields. The vortex-correlation length and the critical-relaxation rate are also determined.
The amino acid composition of the soluble chromatium haem proteins.

Abstract The amino acid composition of the c -type and RHP-type haem proteins of the photo-anaerobe, Chromatium , have been determined and compared with the same haem protein types found in the related photosynthetic bacterium, Rhodospirillum rubrum . In general, the RHP-type haem proteins of this bacterium appear to contain much the same quantities of lysine, histidine and cysteine relative to haem content as are found in the c -type cytochromes.