cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An algorithm for optimal single linear feature extraction from several Gaussian pattern classes

A computational algorithm is presented for the extraction of an optimal single linear feature from several Gaussian pattern classes. The algorithm minimizes the increase in the probability of misclassification in the transformed (feature) space. The general approach used in this procedure was developed in a recent paper by R. J. P. de Figueiredo.(1) Numerical results on the application of this procedure to the remotely sensed data from the Purdue C1 flight line as well asLandsat data are presented. It was found that classification using the optimal single linear feature yielded a value for the probability of misclassification on the order of 30% less than that obtained by using the best single untransformed feature. The optimal single linear feature gave performance results comparable to those obtained by using the two features which maximized the average divergence. Also discussed are improvements in classification results using this method when the size of the training set is small.
Hormonal Regulation of the E75 Gene in Drosophila: Identifying Functional Regulatory Elements through Computational and Biological Analysis

Drosophila development is regulated by two hormones, 20-hydroxyecdysone (ecdysone) and juvenile hormone. We previously found that expression of the E75 gene is induced by both hormones in cultured S2 cells. E75 occupies over 100 kb of genomic DNA; it has four alternative promoters producing isoforms E75A, E75B, E75C, and E75D. To identify hormone response elements in the 60-kb noncoding area upstream of the E75A transcription start site, we developed a novel approach combining in vitro, in vivo, and in silico techniques. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with quantitative real-time PCR, we identified five putative enhancers marked with H3K4 monomethylation and depletion of H3. Four of these are ecdysone-regulated enhancers, which possess hormone-responsive chromatin and contain sequences sufficient to confer ecdysone inducibility to a reporter gene. Using EvoPrinterHD- and Multiple Expectation Maximization for Motif Elicitation-based computational analysis, we first created a database of short sequences that are highly conserved among 12 Drosophila species. Within this database, we then identified a set of putative ecdysone response elements (EcREs). Seven of these elements represent in vivo binding sites for the ecdysone receptor and are necessary for hormone-mediated activation of gene expression in cultured cells. We found that each EcRE exhibits different binding and activation properties, and at least some of them function cooperatively. We propose that the presence of multiple EcREs with distinct features provides flexibility to the rapid and powerful response of E75A to ecdysone during Drosophila development.
Spontaneous "phase separation" of patterned binary alkanethiol mixtures

This article describes novel phase-separation behavior by a binary mixture of alkanethiols when deposited onto a gold surface using micro- and nanodeposition tools, such as microcontact printing (μCP) and dip-pen nanolithography (DPN). This behavior is significantly different than that observed in the bulk. We demonstrate this behavior using three model compounds: 16-mercaptohexadecanoic acid (MHA), 1-octadecanethiol (ODT), and CF3(CF2)11(CH2)2SH (PFT). The identity of the resulting segregated structure is confirmed by lateral force microscopy (LFM) and by selective metal−organic coordination chemistry. Importantly, this phenomenon can be exploited to print sub-100 nm wide alkanethiol lines via conventional μCP and to form sub-15 nm features using DPN, which is below the ultimate resolution of both these techniques. We also demonstrate that these nanopatterned materials can serve as templates for constructing more complex architectures.
Linking colonies to fisheries: Spatio-temporal overlap between common murres (Uria aalge) from Tatoosh Island and coastal gillnet fisheries in the Pacific Northwest, USA

Abstract The population-level impact of seabird bycatch is difficult to assess because colony-of-origin is often unknown. As an alternative and complementary approach to ship-derived observations, we assessed the relative potential for bycatch of a known seabird population by quantifying spatio-temporal overlap with local fisheries. Common murres (Uria aalge) have been reported as the most abundant seabird inadvertently caught in Washington and British Columbia coastal gillnet fisheries. In 1999–2001, we tracked 48 common murres from Tatoosh Island, the closest colony to the fisheries, during post-breeding. Using capture-mark-recapture models, we estimated weekly murre movement probabilities to/from three strata (offshore of, centered around, and inshore of Tatoosh Island). Based on movement probabilities and population size, we projected strata- and week-specific murre abundance. We created an index of overlap by calculating the product of murre abundance × gillnet fishing effort as a function of strata and time. The majority of murres (80%) moved inshore, where fishing effort was consistently the highest, suggesting that up to 4000 Tatoosh murres were vulnerable to bycatch. Index scores in the inshore stratum were 5–25 times higher relative to the offshore and Tatoosh strata, respectively. Overlap was sensitive to phenology, as index scores increased by 50% when dispersal was shifted four weeks earlier, while a two weeks delay decreased scores by 20%. Until the long-term impact of cumulative mortality in gillnet fisheries is determined, we believe a precautionary approach is warranted in the inshore stratum where the potential for bycatch was highest. We advocate the use of visible netting in inshore fisheries, a proven solution that reduces murre bycatch while maintaining fishing efficiency.
Peripheral specification of Ia synaptic input to motoneurons innervating foreign target muscles.

Muscle sensory neurons, called Ia afferents, make monosynaptic connections with functionally related sets of motoneurons in the spinal cord. Previous work has suggested that peripheral target muscles play a major role in determining the central connections of Ia afferents with motoneurons. Here, we ask whether motoneurons can also be influenced by their target muscles in terms of the monosynaptic input they receive from Ia afferents, by transplanting thoracic motoneurons into the lumbosacral spinal cord so that they innervate foreign muscles. Three or four segments of thoracic neural tube from stage 14-15 chicken embryos were transplanted to the lumbosacral region of stage 16-17 embryos, and electrophysiological recordings were made from transplanted motoneurons after the embryos had reached stage 38-40. Transplanted thoracic motoneurons innervated limb muscles and received monosynaptic inputs from Ia afferents. These connections were not random: Most of the connections were formed between Ia afferents and motoneurons projecting to the same muscle (homonymous connections). Few aberrant connections were found although the anatomical distribution of afferents in the transplant indicated that they had ample opportunity to contact inappropriate motoneurons. We conclude that although peripheral target cues are not sufficient to respecify an already committed motoneuron (turn a thoracic motoneuron into a lumbosacral motoneuron), they do provide sufficient information for Ia afferent input to be functionally correct.
Interleukin-2-activated autologous bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cells in the treatment of acute leukemia and lymphoma.

Abstract In this pilot trial of interleukin (IL)-2-treated autologous bone marrow (BM) and peripheral stem cell (PSC)-supported high-dose chemoradiotherapy, we report 36 patients with poor-prognosis leukemia and lymphoma who received BM and/or granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-mobilized autologous PSCs that had been exposed to IL-2 for 24 hours ex vivo. Patients then received IL-2 by low-dose continuous intravenous (i.v.) infusion until hematologic reconstitution and then by intermediate-dose continuous i.v. infusion for six 2-week maintenance cycles given at 1-month intervals. The median Day to neutrophils over 500/microL was 22 with BM and 10 with PSCs (p = 0.01). The median Day to platelets >20,000/microL was 50 for BM and 25 for PSCs, and to platelets >50,000/microL was 138 for BM and 34 for PSCs (p not significant). After the first three patients received IL-2 at 2 mIU x m(-2) x day(-1) and had slow reconstitution, four patients were treated without IL-2 until the maintenance phase following reconstitution. The remaining 29 patients received the initial "post-infusion" IL-2 at 1 mIU x m(-2) x day(-1). Toxicities associated with the infusion of IL-2-activated cells consisted of chills and fever in about one-half of the patients and transient hypotension in 12%. Low-dose IL-2 by continuous i.v. infusion in the early posttransplant period was associated with exacerbation of fever, diarrhea, and altered mental status in a minority of patients. The major dose-limiting toxicities of maintenance IL-2 were fever, fatigue, gastrointestinal symptoms, skin rash, and dyspnea. Among 24 lymphoma patients, nine are in continuous complete remission (CCR) from 18-48 months, and 15 have died (12 due to relapse and three of therapy-related toxicities). Of 12 acute leukemia patients, two with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are in CCR at 38 and 43 months, and one patient who was in cytogenetic but not molecular remission of Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL died of progressive leukemia at Day 108. Three of nine with myeloid leukemia are in CCR at 21, 46, and 53 months; one is in hematologic and cytogenetic remission of acute promyelocytic leukemia at 55 months with multiple new cytogenetic abnormalities; one is alive at 54 months with pancytopenia after incomplete hematologic recovery followed by multiple new cytogenetic abnormalities (myelodysplasia); and one had an unrelated donor transplant after relapsing 4 months following protocol therapy. One myeloid leukemia patient remains without evidence of relapse, but is transfusion-dependent at 15 months following transplant. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 1999;5(1):36-45.
Hold That Line The New Orleans Police Strikes

In February 1979, the New Orleans Police Department was engaged in two work stoppages that were orchestrated by the Police Association of New Orleans (PANO). During this period, PANO was affiliated with the International Teamsters Union, which allegedly had ties to organized crime. This study addresses the causes of the police strikes, the right of public safety personnel to strike, and how the "gangster" image of the Teamsters adversely affected the labor negotiations. The authors conducted personal, semistructured interviews of individuals who participated in the labor talks, as well as an extensive review of the literature. According to respondents, the primary causes of the strike were low wages and the refusal of city officials to recognize the police union and enter into meaningful collective bargaining negotiations. Language: en
The Natural Measure of Nonattracting Chaotic Sets and its Representation by Unstable Periodic Orbits

The natural measure of a chaotic set in a phase-space region can be related to the dynamical properties of all unstable periodic orbits embedded in the chaotic set contained in that region. This result has been shown to be valid for hyperbolic chaotic invariant sets. The aim of this paper is to examine whether this result applies to nonhyperbolic, nonattracting chaotic saddles which lead to transient chaos in physical systems. In particular, we examine, quantitatively, the closeness of the natural measure obtained from a long trajectory on the chaotic saddle to that evaluated from unstable periodic orbits embedded in the set. We also analyze the difference between the long-time average values of physical quantities evaluated with respect to a dense trajectory and those computed from unstable periodic orbits. Results with both the Henon map and the Ikeda–Hammel–Jones–Moloney map for which periodic orbits can be enumerated lend credence to the conjecture that the unstable periodic-orbit theory of the natural measure is applicable to nonhyperbolic chaotic saddles.
The ultrastructure and symbiotic relationships of Wolbachia of mosquitoes of the Aedes scutellaris group.

Although the ultrastructure of the wolbachiae in the Aedes scutellaris group is similar to that of Wolbachia pipientis, this study of the ultrastructure of wolbachiae in ovaries of Ae. cooki, Ae. polynesiensis, Ae. albopictus, Ae. riversi, and the Tafahi species revealed no virus-like particles. Crystalloids were found in abnormal wolbachiae from old nulliparous mosquitoes. The volume fraction of wolbachiae in nulliparous resting-stage oocytes was 2–3% in 4.5-day-old Aedes polynesiensis and 12–26% in 24.5-day-old adults of this species. The nurse cells of the scutellaris group (unlike those in Culex pipiens) are rarely infected. An association of wolbachiae with the spindle apparatus of dividing cystocytes and the rough endoplasmic reticulum of resting-stage oocytes was observed, although the relationship may have been fortuitous. Such associations may have significance in the development of symbiotic relationships.
CS2: a new database synopsis for query estimation

Fast and accurate estimations for complex queries are profoundly beneficial for large databases with heavy workloads. In this research, we propose a statistical summary for a database, called CS2 (Correlated Sample Synopsis), to provide rapid and accurate result size estimations for all queries with joins and arbitrary selections. Unlike the state-of-the-art techniques, CS2 does not completely rely on simple random samples, but mainly consists of correlated sample tuples that retain join relationships with less storage. We introduce a statistical technique, called reverse sample, and design a powerful estimator, called reverse estimator, to fully utilize correlated sample tuples for query estimation. We prove both theoretically and empirically that the reverse estimator is unbiased and accurate using CS2. Extensive experiments on multiple datasets show that CS2 is fast to construct and derives more accurate estimations than existing methods with the same space budget.
Virtual wave gauges based upon stereo imaging for measuring surface wave characteristics

abstract Article history:Received 23 August 2010Accepted 16 November 2010Available online xxxxKeywords:Virtual wave gaugesStereo imagingWave heightWave periodWave directionWave reﬂection A virtual wave gauge (VWG) technique based on stereo imaging is developed to remotely measure waterwave height, period, and direction. VWG minimizes computational costs by directly tracking the elevation ofthe water surface at selected points of interest using a Eulerian based dynamic searching algorithm. Resultsshow that the VWG technique developed in this paper dramatically improves efﬁciency by two orders ofmagnitude compared to the traditional Lagrangian–Eulerian based point cloud method of stereo imageprocessing. VWG is tested against traditional wave wire gauges to within 98% accuracy for signiﬁcant waveheight. Furthermore, the ﬂexibility of the VWG is demonstrated in two ﬁeld applications. First in an offshorebreakingwavecase,anarrayofVWGsisusedtoefﬁcientlymeasurewavedirectionality. Secondtoinvestigatethe reﬂection coefﬁcient of a rock-mounted structure interacting with nearshore waves, linear and spatialVWGarraysaredesigned andimplemented based onaprioriinformation ofthe waveﬁeldfroma preliminaryVWG measurement. Overall, we demonstrate that the ﬂexible and computational efﬁcient VWG techniquehas the potential to make real-time remote stereo imaging wave measurements a reality.© 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Astroinformatics: data-oriented astronomy research and education

The growth of data volumes in science is reaching epidemic proportions. Consequently, the status of data-oriented science as a research methodology needs to be elevated to that of the more established scientific approaches of experimentation, theoretical modeling, and simulation. Data-oriented scientific discovery is sometimes referred to as the new science of X-Informatics, where X refers to any science (e.g., Bio-, Geo-, Astro-) and informatics refers to the discipline of organizing, describing, accessing, integrating, mining, and analyzing diverse data resources for scientific discovery. Many scientific disciplines are developing formal sub-disciplines that are information-rich and data-based, to such an extent that these are now stand-alone research and academic programs recognized on their own merits. These disciplines include bioinformatics and geoinformatics, and will soon include astroinformatics. We introduce Astroinformatics, the new data-oriented approach to 21st century astronomy research and education. In astronomy, petascale sky surveys will soon challenge our traditional research approaches and will radically transform how we train the next generation of astronomers, whose experiences with data are now increasingly more virtual (through online databases) than physical (through trips to mountaintop observatories). We describe Astroinformatics as a rigorous approach to these challenges. We also describe initiatives in science education (not only in astronomy) through which students are trained to access large distributed data repositories, to conduct meaningful scientific inquiries into the data, to mine and analyze the data, and to make data-driven scientific discoveries. These are essential skills for all 21st century scientists, particularly in astronomy as major new multi-wavelength sky surveys (that produce petascale databases and image archives) and grand-scale simulations (that generate enormous outputs for model universes, such as the Millennium Simulation) become core research components for a significant fraction of astronomical researchers.
Energy of neutron-star matter

It is generally believed that the interior of some neutron stars is dense enough that the neutron-star matter (NSM) contains not only neutrons, but also protons, electrons, and various hyperons. In the present paper we calculate the effect of some hyperons on the composition and energy of the NSM. We calculate the energy per baryon and the fractions of the various baryons present, as a function of the baryon density, ranging from 0.1 to 2 baryons per ${\mathrm{fm}}^{3}$, using two slightly different modifications of the Reid-soft-core interaction, one developed by Sawada and Wong, and the other by Campi and Sprung. The interaction energies are based on reaction matrix calculations by the above authors. We consider first a pure neutron gas. However, even at subnuclear densities (\ensuremath{\le} 0.15 baryons per ${\mathrm{fm}}^{3}$) it is generally agreed that there are protons present (and also electrons to keep the system neutral.) We calculate the effect of the protons (which constitute less than 10% of the baryons) on the energy. We then study the effect of what, we believe, are the most important hyperons, namely, ${\ensuremath{\Sigma}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, $\ensuremath{\Lambda}$, ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, to the composition and energy. The baryon-baryon interaction energies are assumed to be essentially the same as those between nucleons, except that (1) the interaction energy is different between like baryons ($\ensuremath{\Lambda}\ensuremath{\Lambda}$ or $\mathrm{pp}$) and unlike baryons ($\ensuremath{\Lambda}{\ensuremath{\Sigma}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ or $\mathrm{np}$); and (2) there is a special factor of 2/3 in the strengths of the long-range attractive part of the hyperon-nucleon interaction, as compared to the nucleon-nucleon interaction. The latter is argued on the basis of a quark model. On the other hand, the short-range repulsive part of the interaction is assumed to be the same between all baryon pairs. Four different models are used. One of our main conclusions is that, in the most realistic of the four models used here, there are relatively few protons and hyperons present (no more than 15% of each species even at the highest density considered) and the energy is only slightly less than for a pure neutron gas (20% and 10%, respectively, for the Sawada-Wong and Campi-Sprung interactions). Finally, we calculate the magnetic susceptibility of NSM treated as a pure neutron gas with Sawada-Wong interaction energies. No evidence of a transition to ferromagnetism is found.
Hepatogenic cyanosis: arteriovenous shunts in chronic active hepatitis.

This report describes a young girl with chronic active hepatitis, cyanosis, andpulmonary arteriovenous fistulas. Measurements of hepatic, cardiovascular, and pulmonary function were obtained during the course of her illness, which were consistent with the pathologic changes found at autopsy. Inasmuch as the cyanosis may be due to both peripheral systemic and pulmonary shunting of blood, presumably secondary to chronic liver disease by still unknown mechanisms, it seems appropriate to designate this condition as “hepatogenic cyanosis”.
Visible light photoelectrochemical and water-photoelectrolysis properties of titania nanotube arrays

Abstract We examine the visible light water-photoelectrolysis and photoelectrochemical properties of highly ordered titania nanotube arrays as a function of nanotube crystallinity, length (up to 6.4 μm), and pore size. Most noteworthy of our results, under visible light AM 1.5 illumination (100 mW/cm2) the titania nanotube array photoanodes (1 cm2 area), pore size 110 nm, wall thickness 20 nm, and length 6 μm, generate hydrogen by water photoelectrolysis at a rate of 175 μL/h, with a photoconversion efficiency of 0.6%. The energy–time normalized hydrogen evolution rate is 1.75 mL/h W. The oxygen bubbles evolving from the nanotube array photoanode do not remain on the sample, hence the output remains stable with time irrespective of the duration of hydrogen production.
Performing Violence in Rotrou’s Theater

Violence has a significant and varied role in the theater of Jean Rotrou. Discord and strife are natural to the stage and violence is one of the ways such conflict may be expressed. The inherently spectacular nature of violence makes it particularly theatrical. At the same time, violence pleasingly tantalizes audiences. In this examination of Rotrou’s entire theatrical corpus, I first consider the use of “real” violence, both on stage and off. More interesting and even more common is potential violence, which includes threats of all sorts, as well as fortuitous interruptions. Potential violence avoids the serious difficulties that staging “real” violence entails; furthermore it opens the door to theatricality, as threats may be mere poses. Rotrou’s most innovative use of violence is to make of it a conscious performance on the part of his characters. Violence is thus tied to the performance of insanity, to cross-dressing, and to his fanfarons, among other elements. Finally Rotrou’s masterpiece, Le Veritable Saint Genest, reproduces the two levels of agency of violence—the playwright and his characters—while adding a third level, that of the violence represented, recounted, or threatened in the embedded play performed by Genest’s troupe. From a basic building block of dramatic spectacle and plot, Rotrou constructs a reflection on the nature of theatrical illusion.
Endobronchial telangiectasias and hemoptysis in scleroderma

Hemoptysis is considered a rare event in scleroderma and to date only two previous cases could be identified. The occurrence of hemoptysis with bleeding and friable telangiectasias is reported in a patient with rapidly progressing systemic sclerosis. This represents the first report of this association, although bleeding telangiectasias have been reported in other systems. A brief review of the relevant literature is included.
The Theory of Anomalous Diffraction Gratings and of Quasi-Stationary Waves on Metallic Surfaces (Sommerfeld’s Waves)

The theory of Wood’s anomalous diffraction gratings, which was developed some years ago, has been reexamined in order to visualize its physical meaning. Each wave diffracted by a grating is identified through the component of its “wave vector” tangential to the grating. Surface waves similar to those found in total internal reflection are included (§2). The amplitudes of these waves can be calculated by successive approximations (§3). One feature of the anomalies is connected with the infinite dispersion of spectra at grazing emergence (§4). Emphasis is put on the existence of polarized quasi-stationary waves which represent an energy current rolling along the surface of a metal (§5). These waves can be strongly excited on the surface of metallic gratings under critical conditions depending also on the profile of the grooves; secondary interference phenomena arise then in the observed spectra (§6). The connection of the quasi-stationary surface waves with the wireless ground waves is discussed (§7). A general formulation is introduced to discuss the significance of the approximation used (Appendix).
Topographic analysis of field potentials in rat vibrissa/barrel cortex

Abstract An 8 x 8 multichannel microelectrode array was used to simultaneously record epicortical field potentials, evoked by displacement of contralateral vibrissae, from a 4 x 4 mm 2 area of vibrissa/barrel cortex in 4 rats. The epicortical responses began with early positive (p1) and negative (N1) sharp waves, followed by slower positive (P2) and negative (N2) waves. The potential complex systematically shifted location with vibrissa stimulated, in accordance with the known somatotopic anatomy of vibrissa/barrel cortex. Topographical distributions of potentials at the P1, N1, P2 and N2 peaks were approximately concentric, but had distinct spatial extents, suggesting that they were generated by different but overlapping neuronal subpopulations. We propose that the SEP in the vibrissa/barrel cortex is produced by both sequential and parallel processing of somatosensory information, and that all components of the epicortical SEP are generated only in primary somatosensory cortex of the rat. Applications and weaknesses of topographic analysis methods are discussed.
Evaluation of an indigenous parasitoid Habrobracon gelechiae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) for biological control of light brown apple moth Epiphyas postvittana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in California

Abstract Light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana (Walker), is a newly invasive pest in California. Habrobracon gelechiae Ashmead is an indigenous North American ectoparasitoid of lepidopterans. Using E. postvittana as the host, we determined H. gelechiae host stage preference for oviposition and suitability for larval growth: the parasitoid attacked second to fifth instars, but preferred older (third to fifth) host larvae for oviposition, laying more eggs per clutch on the largest (fifth instar). Offspring survival was better on larger (third to fifth instars) hosts. Adult survival and fecundity and immature temperature development were studied at three key temperatures. At 12°C, H. gelechiae failed to oviposit. At 22 and 30°C, H. gelechiae had, respectively, egg to adult developmental times of 15.4 and 8.7 days, adult female survival of 54.8 and 27.2 days, lifetime parasitism of 39.9 and 21.8 hosts and 181 and 151 eggs per female, an intrinsic rate of increase of 0.107 and 0.165, and mean generation...
Direct Targeting of Light Signals to a Promoter Element-Bound Transcription Factor

Light signals perceived by the phytochrome family of sensory photoreceptors are transduced to photoresponsive genes by an unknown mechanism. Here, we show that the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor PIF3 binds specifically to a G-box DNA-sequence motif present in various light-regulated gene promoters, and that phytochrome B binds reversibly to G-box-bound PIF3 specifically upon light-triggered conversion of the photoreceptor to its biologically active conformer. We suggest that the phytochromes may function as integral light-switchable components of transcriptional regulator complexes, permitting continuous and immediate sensing of changes in this environmental signal directly at target gene promoters.
Factors affecting masticatory performance of Japanese children

Aim. The aim of this study was to analyse occlusal parameters and body variables to examine the factors accounting for masticatory performance of Japanese children in relation to adults. Methods. Sixty-six children and 24 adults chewed three pieces of a colour-changeable chewing gum, separately, for 30 s, 60 s, and 90 s. The colour change was measured at 30 s using L* a* b* colour space system. Biting force, occlusal contact areas, and occlusal pressure were recorded by Dental Prescale. Number of strokes, and the height and weight of the subjects were included in the statistical analysis. Results. Within each sample, Student's t-test revealed significant differences among a* values at the three chewing times in which the value of a* (indicator of red) increased as the length of chewing time increased (P < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis showed that the rate of mandibular movement in preschool children has a significant impact on masticatory performance (P < 0.05). In schoolchildren, the rate of mandibular movement, biting force, and body weight were significant factors (P < 0.05). In adults, occlusal contact area, biting force, and the rate of mandibular movement were the significant factors (P < 0.05). Conclusion. Factors affecting masticatory performance differ according to the developmental stage of the individual.
Structural Optimization of Microfluidic Gate Controlled Magnetic Bead System for DNA Sequencing-by-Synthesis

In this paper we present a structural and geometrical optimization of a microfluidic gate-controlled magnetic bead system for DNA Sequencing by Synthesis technology. To optimize the efficiency of the technology, we designed, fabricated and tested several structures of the GCMB platform. Different designs of the system were created to study the effects of the pressure, structure, geometry, materials, thickness of intermediate layer between flow and control lines; Toward optimization of the system for a better sensing and to concentrate signal (e.g. heat in Thermosequencing [4–9]) into specific regions for detection in the real system, we recommend an optimized modified gated structure for the microfluidic detection platform and show how this new platform could improve the detection efficiency.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
A folded structure for the lac-repressor headpiece.

Abstract A combination of selective 1H nuclear Overhauser effects and other evidence indicates that the headpiece of the lac-repressor protein folds back on itself “head-to-tail” with residues in the N-terminal and C-terminal portions near to each other.
EXPRESSION AND IMMUNOLOCALIZATION OF THE PLASMA MEMBRANE MONOAMINE TRANSPORTER IN THE BRAIN

High affinity monoamine transporters efficiently terminate neurotransmission through synaptic reuptake of released neurotransmitter. We recently cloned and characterized a novel low-affinity, high capacity plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT) that is strongly expressed in the human brain and efficiently transports 5-HT and dopamine (DA). In efforts to understand the physiological function of PMAT and its relevance in monoaminergic pathways, we cloned the PMAT homolog from the mouse brain, demonstrated its capability for transporting 5-HT and DA, and determined the regional and cellular localization of mouse plasma membrane monoamine transporter (mPMAT) in adult mouse brain by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, non-radioactive in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemical methods. Our results showed that mPMAT mRNA and protein are broadly expressed in the mouse brain and are particularly abundant in forebrain cortex, olfactory tubercle, hippocampus, cerebellum and epithelial cells of the choroid plexus. Dual-immunofluorescence histochemistry with established phenotypic markers microtubule-associated protein (MAP2) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) revealed that mPMAT is expressed in neuronal cells but not in astrocytes. mPMAT is co-expressed in many brain regions with the high affinity 5-HT transporter (SERT) and the dopamine transporter (DAT), but is also found in certain sites that receive monoamine innervation but lack significant expression of SERT or DAT. These findings suggest that mPMAT is a widely distributed, neuronally-expressed transporter, which may support the role of 5-HT and DA uptake under certain conditions.
AGU leadership will involve new volunteers, new and continuing Board and Council members

The election is over, but AGU's leadership transition is just beginning! Newly elected leaders will take office on 1 January 2013, and about half of the current Board and Council members will rotate off. In addition, there will be changes to AGU committee structure, charges, and composition.
Effects of cover materials on leaching of constituents from dolomitic lead mine tailings

Five raised-bed test plots were used to study the effects of cover materials on the leaching of constituents from dolomitic Pb mine tailings over a 2-yr period. The cover materials studied were a fertilizer and seed mixture, anaerobically digested sewage sludge, loam and sod, and fallen leaves from silver maples (Acer Saccharinum); one plot was not covered. Fresh leachates and receiving pool waters were analyzed for ten metals, Si, P, inorganic anions, filterable organic carbon (FOC), and alkalinity. The mixture of fertilizer and seed decreased leaching of Pb and Zn during the first year. The leaf cover increased leaching of Pb during both years; this effect decreased as the leaves weathered. Sludge caused some increase in Pb leaching during the first year, and increased Cd leaching during both years. Concentrations of most leachate constituents decreased, and pH increased in the receiving pools. Concentrations of Pb remained higher in the receiving pool for the leaf-covered plot than in the other pools. Increases in leaching of Pb and Cd with a sludge cover were moderate, and the ability of the material to support plant growth on the tailings suggested that it may be a good medium for inducing growth of vegetative cover on the dolomitic tailings. Other organic materials may cause pronounced increase in the concentration of toxic trace metals in leachate from the tailings.
Extreme climate and variation in tree growth: individualistic response in subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa)

Dendroecological techniques were used to describe the variation in growth response of subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa)to climate across a range of elevations (1350–1850 m) and annual precipitation (125–350 cm y−1) in the Olympic Mountains, Washington. Correlation analysis is used to describe individual growth-climate relationships. Growth response is quantified in years with unusually warmer, colder, wetter, and drier climates during the period 1895–1990. Combinations of climatic variables that result in unusually fast or slow growth years are also described. Differences in growth-climate relationships among sites, and among individuals from the same site, emphasize within-species variability in response to climate. Growth was not significantly faster or slower on the majority of sites for extreme climate years examined. Few climate variables are correlated with growth of the majority of individuals on most sites, suggesting that some individuals are relatively unresponsive to climate. Individual growth-climate correlations also indicate an increase in the percentage of individuals whose growth is significantly correlated with a climate variable, as the value of the mean site growth correlation increases for that climate variable. Individual differences in growth-climate relationships probably result from microsite variation (soil depth, soil moisture, wind, insolation) and from individual genetic differences. Descriptions of tree species response to climate change need to incorporate both individual and site variation in growth response to climate in order to accurately represent existing environmental heterogeneity.
Guidelines for echocardiography of low-risk patients with Kawasaki disease.

To the Editor .— A recent institutional review regarding follow-up cardiac imaging for low-risk patients with Kawasaki disease demonstrated significant variability in the timing and frequency of echocardiography. There are many factors that may account for this variability in practice and compliance with published guidelines for long-term management of these patients. …
The preparation of substituted 1,2,4‐triazolines and substituted picolinic acid methylene hydrazides by the action of certain carboxamide hydrazones with ketones

The action of certain ketones with carboxamide hydrazones, yielding, depending on conditions, 1,2,4-triazolines or substituted picolinic acid methylene hydrazides, has been investigated. Also the preparation of 3-subsliluted-5-phenyl-1,2,4-triazines from the action of phenyl glyoxal and certain carboxamide hydrazones is described.
Rigor, and plan-view simulation of surfaces

This paper discusses the rigor of simulating plan-view images of surfaces using numerical multislice calculations. In particular, the validity of using a conventional multislice approach with individual atomic slices is tested versus a three-dimensional multislice with the top and bottom surfaces specifically included; the result is that the two are identical when inelastic scattering is neglected and almost identical when it is included. These results also demonstrate that inelastic scattering cannot be neglected for surface plan-view simulations. For instance, the bulk-forbidden, surface-allowed spots are shown to correspond to true bulk Bloch waves which are damped in thicker crystals consistent with experimental observations. The existence of a strong top-bottom effect is also pointed out, which means that plan-view imaging is more sensitive to the bottom surface except in exceedingly thin crystals.
The Efficiency of Race- and Gender-Targeted Income Transfers

In this article, the authors quantify the potential efficiency gains from moving toward an income redistribution system that bases transfers on membership in demographic groups such as race and gender. They compute four measures of the marginal efficiency cost (MEC) of redistribution under a standard linear income tax and under a policy that tags specific demographic groups. The authors find that a tagging system can significantly lower the MEC of redistribution. At the margin, a system of tagging demographic groups achieves the goal of greater income equality at a significantly lower cost in terms of lost output.
Two new species of menoponidae (mallophaga) from the falconiformes.

Colpocephalum megalopteri is described from a Peruvian falcon Phalcoboenus megalopterus and Kurodaia quatei from a New Guinea falconiform Accipiter novaehollandiae .
A look at application performance sensitivity to the bandwidth and latency of InfiniBand networks

This work explores the expected performance of three applications on a high performance computing cluster interconnected using InfiniBand. In particular, the expected performance across a range of configurations is analyzed notably InfiniBand 4/spl times/, 8/spl times/ and 12/spl times/ representing link-speeds of 10 Gb/s, 20 Gb/s, and 30 Gb/s respectively as well as near-neighbor MPI message latencies of 4/spl mu/s and 1.5/spl mu/s. In addition we also consider the impact of node size, from one to eight processors that share a single network connection. The performance analysis is based on the use of detailed performance models of the three applications developed at Los Alamos. The results of the analysis show that the application performance can range by as much as 60% from best to worst. The relative importance of bandwidth, latency and node size differs between the applications.
The relationship between nitrate concentration in the southern applachian mountain streams and terrestrial nitrifiers

Todd, R.L., Swank, W.T., Douglass, J.E., Kerr, P.O., Brockway, D.L. and Monk, C.D., 1975. The relationship between nitrate concentration in the Southern Appalachian mountain streams and terrestrial nitrifiers. Agro-Ecosystems, 2: 127—132. The nitrate content of stream water and the nitrifying bacterial population of the terrestrial horizon were measured in three southern Appalachian watersheds over a 22-month period. The watersheds studied were a fescue grass catchment, a 15-year old white pine plantation, and a mature undisturbed hardwood forest. Monthly averages of nitrate-nitrogen in stream water from the three watersheds were 730, 190, and 3 ppb respectively; the respective nitrifying populations averaged 16,000, 175 and 22 per gram of dry weight for each 40 cm soil profile. These populations were concentrated in the upper 10 cm of the profile (grass = 98%, white pine = 90%, and hardwood = 88%). A correlation is evident between the number of nitrifying bacteria in the soil from gaged watersheds and the NO3 content of the streams. Nitrifying activity appears to be dependent on vegetation type and suceessional stage.
A wandering Gondawanaland's impact on summer temperatures

The effect of the position of Gondawanaland on summer temperatures is examined with a coupled energy balance climate-sea ice model that includes the ice-albedo feedback. These temperatures are important in determining when ice-free conditions can exist near the south pole. Results show that when the land mass is centered on the south pole summer temperatures are warmer than when the pole is located at the continental edge; however, this warming is moderated by the ice-albedo feedback. In addition, results indicate that paleogeography influences the magnitude of moisture transport toward the pole, affecting the initiation of glaciation.
Beyond the Dyad An Assessment of Sexual Assault Prevention Education Focused on Social Determinants of Sexual Assault Among College Students

Sexual assault is prevalent in the United States, particularly among college women. Prevention programs are implemented to combat assault, yet rates have not changed for five decades. A course designed to deconstruct contextualized factors contributing to assault was developed as an alternative prevention initiative. The current study assessed the effectiveness of the course compared with a traditional program via in-depth interviews with students. Findings indicated that students in the course were more likely to acknowledge underlying determinants of sexual assault and articulate how such behaviors could lead to assault. The course could be an effective approach to sexual assault prevention education.
Influence and the Administrative Process: Lobbying the U.S. President's Office of Management and Budget

All administrative processes contain points of entry for politics, and the U.S. president's use of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to review government regulations is no exception. Specifically, OMB review can open up a pathway for interest groups to lobby for policy change. We theorize that interest group lobbying can be influential during OMB review, especially when there is consensus across groups. We use a selection model to test our argument with more than 1,500 regulations written by federal agencies that were subjected to OMB review. We find that lobbying is associated with change during OMB review. We also demonstrate that, when only business groups lobby, we are more likely to see rule change; however, the same is not true for public interest groups. We supplement these results with illustrative examples suggesting that interest groups can, at times, use OMB review to influence the content of legally binding government regulations.
The noise amplification index for optimal pose selection in robot calibration

This paper presents a new observability index to quantify the selection of best pose set in robot calibration. This noise amplification index is considerably more sensitive to calibration error than previously published observability indices. Support for the proposed index as provided analytically and geometrically, and also through comparison against previous indices by a simulation for a 3-link planar robot and by an experiment for a 3-DOF redundant parallel-drive robot.
Tetrahydrocurcumin in plasma and urine: Quantitation by high performance liquid chromatography

Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC), one of the major metabolites of curcumin, exhibits many of the same physiologic and pharmacological activities as curcumin and in some systems may exert greater antioxidant activity than curcumin. However, evaluation of clinical efficacy is limited by lack of sensitive methods for quantifying intake/absorption in blood or urine. We have developed a sensitive high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analytical method for detection of THC in plasma and urine. The method involves extracting the THC from 0.2 mL samples with 95% ethyl acetate/5% methanol, and beta-17-estradiol acetate as an internal standard. Analysis with a reversed-phase C18 column and UV detection at 280 nm demonstrates linear performance from 0.050 to 6.0 microg/mL in plasma, and 0.060 to 6.0 microg/mL in urine. The coefficients of variation for intra- and inter-assays were each<8.6%. The average recovery of THC from plasma and urine was greater than 98.5%. These data demonstrate a rapid, sensitive and accurate method for HPLC quantification of THC in plasma and urine.
Education as a new approach to fighting financial crime in the USA

Describes recent attempts to help auditors fight financial crime in the USA, focusing on the new Statement on Auditing Standard (SAS). Indicates however auditors may lack sufficient training to recognise or understand fraud, and that accounting students at universities should have anti‐fraud education. Outlines the provision of the new SAS 99, which requires the audit team to brainstorm in order to detect misstatements in client accounts and maintain professional scepticism; auditors also have to question more directly in their investigations of fraud risk, and the SAS introduces the “fraud triangle” and guidelines to help assess risk factors; finally, auditors must respond to the assessments. Reports two recent fraud surveys: the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) found 663 fraud cases for 2002, most of them involving asset misappropriation, and the Pricewaterhouse‐Coopers 2003 survey found similarly. Concludes with a look at ACFE’s higher education programme for fraud, and that of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants; the trend in the USA is to provide specific courses on fraud.