cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of Elastin-Mimetic Protein Gels Derived from a Well-Defined Polypeptide Precursor

To elucidate the effects of uniformity of molecular architecture on gel properties, a protein polymer based on the elastin-mimetic repeat sequence [(Val-Pro-Gly-Val-Gly)4(Val-Pro-Gly-Lys-Gly)], 1 (Lys-25), was synthesized using genetic engineering and microbial protein expression. The regularly placed lysine residues in poly(Lys-25) underwent selective reaction with electrophilic cross-linkers under mild conditions in either dimethyl sulfoxide or aqueous phosphate buffer to afford solvent-swollen networks. Chemical derivatization and spectroscopic investigations of the cross-linking reaction indicated that approximately 85% of the lysine residues reacted with the cross-linker. The protein hydrogel exhibited reversible, temperature-dependent expansion and contraction with an estimated midpoint temperature for the phase transition at 35 °C. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations indicated profound differences in morphology between protein gels prepared in organic vs aqueous solution.
Development of species identification in ducklings: X. Perceptual specificity in the wood duck embryo requires sib stimulation for maintenance

A critical acoustic feature of the wood duck maternal assembly call is the descending frequency modulation (FM) of its notes. To determine the role of exposure of wood ducklings to conspecific vocalizations in the development of selective responsiveness to the descending FM of the species maternal call, the behavioral response of embryos to synthetic descending and ascending maternal calls was examined. Previous work indicated that selective responsiveness of newly hatched wood ducklings to the descending FM of the maternal call is dependent upon prior exposure to descending FM calls of siblings. In advance of auditory experience the youngest embryos were responsive to both ascending and descending call notes, but older aurally isolated embryos became selectively responsive to the descending FM. However, even though the wood duck hatching vocalizes considerably in aural isolation, self-stimulation is ineffective in maintaining the perceptual selectivity in the neonate. Unlike the mallard, in which self-stimulation is adequate, the wood duckling must be exposed to sib vocalizations in order to remain selectively responsive to the critical acoustic feature of the maternal call of its species.
Distributed deadlock detection in Ada run-time environments

Distributed deadlock detection has been studied in distributed database systems and distributed timesharing operating systems, but has not been widely used in real-time systems such as Ada runtime environments. In this paper we are interested in explicitly tying the formal properties of deadlock algorithms to Ada and its runtime system. We analyze and categorize the deadlock problem in Ada environments into four levels of complexity by using Knapp's hierarchy of deadlock models. To fully support Ada semantics it is necessary to develop solutions for the most complex level. Many Ada applications, however, do not utilize all the features that Ada provides. Consequently, according to the characteristics of an application, the deadlock problem may be simplified by imposing certain restrictions on the use of Ada. We develop a series of solutions depending on the level of restriction imposed on the use of Ada and we relate those solutions to the levels of complexity associated with the theoretical models. Two algorithms related to the first two levels of complexity are presented in this paper.
Human recombinant interleukin-2125 induced in vitro proliferation of equine, caprine, ovine, canine and feline peripheral blood lymphocytes

Equine, caprine, ovine, canine and feline peripheral blood lymphocytes were evaluated in a short term dose-response study for their in vitro blastogenic responsiveness to human recombinant interleukin-2(125) (HrIL-2(125] alone or in combination with phytohemagglutinin-P, concanavalin-A, and pokeweed mitogen. HrIL-2(125) induced lymphocyte proliferation in all of the animals tested. The magnitude of the proliferative response varied among the species of animal tested. In all cases the proliferative response was dependent on the concentration of HrIL-2(125). HrIL-2(125) at a minimum concentration of 10(2) Cetus Units (CU)/ml produced a significant proliferative response in isolated horse, goat and sheep lymphocytes. In cat and dog lymphocytes, a concentration of 10(3) CU/ml was necessary to induce a significant proliferative response. Maximal lymphocyte proliferation was reached in horses and sheep at a concentration of 10(4) CU/ml of HrIL-2(125). In goats, cats, and dogs a maximum proliferative response was found to be at a concentration equal to or greater than 10(4) CU/ml of HrIL-2. Co-stimulation of lymphocytes with mitogens and submaximal concentrations of HrIL-2(125) (10 CU/ml) induced a synergistic proliferative response which in nearly all cases was significantly greater (P less than 0.05) than the arithmetic sum of the responses induced by the same concentration of the mitogens and HrIL-2(125) alone. The two exceptions were co-stimulation of feline lymphocytes with concanavalin-A and co-stimulation of canine lymphocytes with pokeweed mitogen.
The Interaction Between SrFeCo0.5Ox Ceramic Membranes and Pt/CeZrO2 During Syngas Production from Methane

Non-porous ceramic membranes with mixed ionic and electronic conductivity have received significant interest as membrane reactor systems for the conversion of methane to higher value products. In this work, the role of the membrane in the conversion of methane and the interaction with a Pt/CeZrO2 catalyst has been studied. Pulse studies of reactants and products over physical mixtures of crushed membrane material and catalyst have clearly demonstrated that a synergy exists between the membrane and the catalyst under reaction conditions. The degree of catalyst/membrane interaction strongly impacts the conversion of methane and the catalyst performance.
How Would the Reverend Bayes Interpret High-Sensitivity Troponin?

Deep down, we’re all Bayesians, except sometimes when making mistakes. —I.J. Good, Good Thinking: The Foundations of Probability and its Applications. 1 Cardiac troponins are heavily relied on in the laboratory evaluation of patients with suspected myocardial infarction (MI) because of their putative high sensitivity and specificity for detection of myocardial necrosis. According to the National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry guidelines, “In the presence of a clinical history suggestive of acute coronary syndrome, maximal concentration of cardiac troponin exceeding the 99th percentile of values … for a reference control group on at least 1 occasion during the first 24 hour after the clinical event is considered indicative of myocardial necrosis consistent with myocardial infarction.”2 Article see p 1227 Until recently, the commercially available troponin assays used in clinical practice lacked the stringent precision (10% coefficient of variation for levels below the 99th percentile cut-off) required by the guidelines.3 Over the past few years, however, so-called high-sensitivity, or ultrasensitive, assays have been developed that meet these requirements. Several recent studies have reported enhanced diagnostic and prognostic accuracy of these high-sensitivity troponin assays across a spectrum of patients with cardiovascular disease, including acute coronary syndromes (ACS),4,5 heart failure,6 and chronic stable coronary artery disease (CAD) without left ventricular systolic dysfunction.7 In this issue of Circulation , Januzzi et al8 compare the diagnostic performance of a new high-sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT) assay with that of the conventional cardiac troponin T (cTnT) assay in a single-center cross-sectional study of 377 emergency room patients with chest pain and low-to-intermediate likelihood of ACS (MI or unstable angina). The reference diagnosis was based on the judgment of 2 physicians with access to all clinical and laboratory data, including the results of conventional serial troponin measurements and stress tests, through 6 months …
Current Practices in Data Warehousing

Abstract One hundred and six data warehousing managers and professionals provided data about their companies' data warehousing experiences. the topics explored – sponsorship, architecture, use, costs, and benefits – are important in planning the development of a data warehouse or comparing an existing warehouse with those of other companies.
Failure to diagnose critical heart malformations in newborns before discharge--an increasing problem?

Aim: To determine what proportion of newborns with critical heart defects are discharged undiagnosed from the maternity ward. Methods: Data were retrieved retrospectively for infants born in our referral area from 1993 to 2001 and undergoing surgical or catheter-based intervention before 2 mo of age because of critical heart defects. Results: 259 full-term infants had critical heart defects. Duct-dependent systemic circulation was present in 129, duct-dependent pulmonary circulation in 106, and 24 infants were not duct dependent but critically ill. In 51 infants (20%) the heart defect was not suspected before discharge from the maternity ward. Such late detection occurred more often in infants with duct-dependent systemic circulation (30%) and in children with defects that were not duct dependent (38%) than in children with duct-dependent pulmonary circulation (4%) (p <0.001). The proportion detected after discharge from the maternity ward increased from 13% in 1993-1995 and 21% in 1996-1998 to 26% in 1999-2001 (p <0.05). Conclusion: Many infants with critical congenital heart defects are not diagnosed before discharge from the neonatal maternity ward. The proportion discharged undiagnosed has increased. Neonatal screening fails mainly in children with duct-dependent systemic circulation.
The Reliability of Ionospheric Height Determinations

A study is made of the uncertainties existing in determinations of electron distribution based on virtual height data. The effect of an assumed distribution in the valley between two layers upon the necessary upper-layer form is investigated, and a method for evaluating the maximum error in height determination is given.
Analysis of extreme values of natural processes: statistical description of the maximum

Analysis of extreme values of time series occupies an important position in the study of many natural and environmental phenomena. This paper describes the statistical descriptors and characteristics of the Type I asymptotic distribution of extreme values for different underlying, or initial, distributions and different values of sample size, or number of observations. Specifically, the parameters (characteristic largest value and intensity function) of the Type I distribution of the maximum value are evaluated for several initial distributions, including the normal, lognormal, and gamma. Two moments (the mean and the variance of the maximum value from sequences of size n from these initial distributions) also are determined, based solely on knowledge of the initial distribution and its descriptors and the sequence, or sample, size. Selected results relevant to other initial distributions also are presented.
Light-adapted spectral sensitivity of the goldfish: A reflex measure

Abstract Light-adapted spectral sensitivity of the goldfish was measured using the dorsal light reaction—the reflexive tendency of fish to tilt their dorsal surface toward bright light. Subjects were placed between two 150° extended monochromatic fields, one of which was always 532 nm. The angle of tilt toward or away from the 532 nm light was measured, and the relative intensities of the fields were adjusted until the fish did not tilt. Blind fish did not tilt at all, and fish without utricular otoliths tilted more than normal. The spectral sensitivity obtained using this method peaked near 600 nm and was shallow and broad. The results are similar to those of electrophysiological studies, but different from other behavioral studies.
[7α-18F]fluoro-17α-methyl-5α-dihydrotestosterone: a ligand for androgen receptor-mediated imaging of prostate cancer

Abstract We have synthesized a 18 F-labeled androgen, [7α- 18 F]fluoro-17α-methyl-5α-dihydrotestosterone, in a no-carrier-added radiosynthesis by exchange of 18 F- (tetrabutylammonium fluoride) with the 7β-tosyloxy of 17α-methyl-5α-dihydrotestosterone. The nonradioactive steroid binds with high affinity and specificity to the androgen receptor and binds poorly, if at all, to other steroid receptors and plasma sex hormone binding globulin. The 7α- 18 F-androgen concentrates markedly in the prostate of rats by an androgen receptor-dependent mechanism. It is likely that [7α- 18 F]fluoro-17α-methyl-5α-dihydrotestosterone will be an excellent positron emission tomography imaging agent for prostate cancer.
Floating point error analysis

In many floating point calculations it is important to arrange the sequence of calculations such that significant digits are not deleted by intermediate rounding of the numbers. The danger that gross errors may be introduced is always present in floating point calculations, since the number of digits carried in each number is restricted in normal operation by the design of the computer. Although the phenomenon considered here is well-known to people working with numbers, the purpose of this discussion is to provide a direct approach to the examination of calculations in which gross error may be introduced. A pitfall to be avoided is the fact that expanded versions of an expression frequently appear desirable on the surface due to cancellation of terms in the expansion.The problem is illustrated simply by the product of two differences of almost equal error-free integers. All numbers will be restricted to five digits, and numbers having surplus digits will be rounded to five digits.The direct approach yieldsx = (65432-65321) (54321-54304) = (11) (17) = 187. (1)The expanded product approach yieldsx = (65432) (54321) - (65432) (54304) - (65321) (54321) + (65321)(54304) (2)x = (3.5543 - 3.5532 - 3.5483 + 3.5472) x 109 = 0.0 (3)This result is worthless. The restriction of each number to five digits has prevented us from obtaining the correct result by the expanded form. With the aid of a simple notation, we shall show further on that the same situation prevails if the input numbers are not necessarily accurate to N digits.Normalized floating point numbers have their left-most non-zero digit residing at the immediate right of the decimal point. If leading zeros exist between the decimal point and the non-zero digits of the number, the number is termed unnormalized. Floating point operation is characterized by the automatic re-scaling of unnormalized numbers to put them in normalized form. Physically, the process is accomplished by left shifting all of the digits until the leading zeros have been completely removed into the scale factor.More than one leading zero can only be introduced by a summation process. If the sum of a set of numbers has L leading zeros, each term of the sum has up to L implicit leading zeros, and the largest has exactly L implicit leading zeros. The multiplication of two numbers, having L1 and L2 implicit leading zeros each, gives a product containing (L1+L2) implicit leading zeros. The accuracy of calculations leading to a sum of numbers is determined from the number of implicit leading zeros, L, and the total number of digits, N, carried in the calculation. If L > N, as in the above example, the result is meaningless. Calculation procedures which involve summation should thus be examined carefully to establish that an adequate number of digits is retained in the intermediate numbers to obtain the available accuracy in the result. Procedures which produce the normalized result directly are to be preferred, since the intermediate numbers have explicit leading zeros which are automatically removed into the scale factor before intermediate roundoffs are performed.
Properties of the reaction of GDP-mannose with endogenous polyisoprenylphosphates of liver membranes.

Abstract Two labeled mannolipids were formed when a rat liver membrane fraction was incubated with GDP-[14C]mannose: dolichyl mannosyl phosphate (DMP) and a compound with the same Rf as mannosyl retinyl phosphate, in ratio 20:1. When the reaction was carried out at pH 6.3, DMP was practically the only mannolipid formed. The uptake of mannose into DMP was tested for its dependence on membrane-enzyme concentration: at enzyme concentrations of
Comparative study of similarity coefficients and clustering algorithms in cellular manufacturing

Abstract Three components of a machine cell formation process—similarity coefficients, clustering algorithms, and performance measures—are studied. A new performance measure is introduced and a comparative study of three different similarity coefficients—the Jaccard's similarity coefficient, weighted similarity coefficient, and commonality score—is conducted.
Relationship of wash/rinse water temperatures to soil removal

Samples of cotton, polyester and nylon fabrics were soiled by application of synthetic sebum and clay and then laundered at various combinations of hot, warm and cold wash and rinse water temperatures. The temperature of the rinse water did not affect the amount of soil removed from the fabrics. More soil was generally removed with hot wash water than with warm or cold water. The soil was more readily removed from the nylon than from the cotton or polyester fabrics. All wash/rinse treatments removed soil to a level that would probably be acceptable to most consumers.
Diet and Cancer

Michael Hili opened the session and gave an introduction by presenting a comparison between the 1985 and the 1991 European Cancer Prevention Organization (ECP) meetings on nutrition and cancer. In 1985, specific recommendations regarding the intakes offat, fibres, energy, fruit & vegetables, alcohol and salt were given (see Michael Hill's article in this volume). The general trend was to weaken the Statements regarding fat and fibres. The evidence for the beneficial effects of fruits and vegetables is strong. Obesity is to be avoided and that should be a public health priority. Food additives make an insignificant contribution to the cancer Ioad. It was also pointed out that nutrition guidelines from the scientitic community should in the future be directed to health promotion organizations to help them formulate a message to the public. Nutrition guidelines should be transmitted to professional communicators, who can then pass them on after integration with recommendations regarding not only cancer but all nutritionally related diseases.
Concern modeling in the concern manipulation environment

The Concern Manipulation Environment (CME) is an AOSD environment in which software is organized and manipulated in terms of concerns. This paper is about ConMan, the CME concern manager, which supports the identification, definition, encapsulation, extraction and composition of concerns. ConMan models software in terms of concerns, relationships, constraints, units, artifacts, and associated information. The concern model is multidimensional and concerns can be defined extensionally and/or intensionally. ConMan is neutral with respect to artifact types and formalisms, and it can be used with both aspect-oriented and non-aspect oriented software and methods. ConMan is intended to serve both as a tool for directly modeling concerns and as a platform for developing alternative concern-modeling approaches.
Laser-produced x-ray spectra of the fluorine isoelectronic sequence for Zn, Ge, and Se †

The transitions 2p5-2p43s and 2p5-2p43d in fluorine-like Zn, Ge, and Se have been measured in laser-produced x-ray spectra. The experimental spectral data agree well with ab initio atomic structure calculations based on Hartree-Fock wave functions. Classifications of the F i-like lines in these spectra are based on isoelectronic extrapolations and theoretical calculations.
Relation between giant magnetoresistance and critical current for spin precession in magnetic multilayers

In a spin valve with current perpendicular to layers, the electrical resistance with antiparallel magnetic layers differs from the value with parallel layers, by an amount $\ensuremath{\Delta}R$. Also, above a certain critical value ${I}_{c}$, a dc current induces a precession of the magnetization in the free magnetic layer, through $s\text{\ensuremath{-}}d$ exchange. Using a local mechanism where current-induced torques depend only on the spin polarization of the current, we show that the average of ${I}_{c}$ over parallel and antiparallel states is inversely proportional to $\ensuremath{\Delta}R$ when almost any parameter of the spin valve is varied. This prediction agrees with the experimental results of Urazhdin et al. and of Emley et al. On the other hand, the kind of relation predicted in the case of the nonlocal mechanism, where current-induced torques are mediated by the spin accumulation of Johnson and Silsbee, is inconsistent with some of the Urazhdin experiments. This shows that the local mechanism is dominant over the nonlocal one in these experiments.
Reduction in Fully Softened Shear Strength of Natural Clays with NaCl Leaching and Its Effect on Slope Stability

AbstractLandslides and slope failures in natural clay-rich materials are frequently observed in coastal areas and other areas where these materials were deposited in a saline water environment. High sodium chloride (NaCl) concentration in the pore fluid results from deposition in this environment. As shown by the results of this study, subsequent reduction in the NaCl concentration results in reduction in fully softened shear strength, with potentially significant reduction in slope stability. Fourteen sample materials were collected from seven different landslide areas in Niigata Prefecture, Japan, to evaluate the effect of saline water on fully softened shear strength (FSSS). The sample materials were collected from the intact mudstones and the sliding surface materials. Pore waters from the powdered sliding surface materials exhibited low concentrations of NaCl; however, the pore waters in the powdered intact rock samples exhibited a high concentration of NaCl. Washing of NaCl from the powdered intact ...
Chemical evolution and the evolution of the earth's crust.

It is hypothesized that there is a close relationship between the geologic evolution of the global plates of the Earth's crust and the chemical evolution of life on the Earth. Characteristics of the axes of plate spreading are discussed in relation to postulated environments conducive to the synthesis of chemical compounds thought to be important biological precursors. Likely locations forin situ measurements to test the hypothesis are identified.
An enzyme electrode based on immobilized arylsulfatase for the selective assay of sulfate ion.

Abstract An enzyme electrode has been constructed for the assay of sulfate ion based on inhibition of the reaction The steady-state current arising from oxidation of the product, 4-nitrocatechol, is measured at +0.8 V vs. S. C. E. The competitive inhibition of this reaction by added sulfate ion causes a decrease in this steady-state current in a linear relationship to pSO 4 in the range 2–4. The enzyme arylsulfatase (arylsulfate sulfohydrolase, EC 3.1·6.1) is chemically immobilized in a layer on a platinum electrode. This enzyme electrode also gives linear calibration plots for phosphate ion (10 -2 –10 -4 M) based on its competitive inhibition of the above reaction, and for fluoride ion (10 -2 –10 -4 M) based on its activation of the reaction. The assay of 4-nitrocatechol sulfate (NCS) in the range 10 -6 –10 -4 M is possible. By proper control of the NCS concentration the electrode can be made almost completely specific for sulfate: only molybdate interferes. To establish the best operating conditions for the electrode, the effect of pH on the V m and K m were determined.
Theory and experiment in evolutionary biology

Si les modeles inductiviste et hypothetico-deductiviste sont tous les deux limites dans leur presentation du rapport entre experience et theorie, une combinaison de deux saura peut-etre definir une solution pertinente. Etude du cas de la biologie evolutionniste
Tracer diffusion measurement in polymer solutions near the glass transition by forced rayleigh scattering

Forced Rayleigh scattering, a relatively recently developed optical technique, is used to measure tracer diffusion coefficients in polymer-solvent mixtures near the system glass transition temperature, Tg. The technique has a wider range of potential application than has yet been realized, and so is presented in some detail. The objectives were to obtain data necessary to scrutinize free volume theory, and to understand so-called anomalous, non-Fickian diffusion effects observed by others in polymer-solvent mixtures near Tg. Data on dye tracer diffusion coefficients in the systems polyvinyl acetate-toluene, polystyrene-toluene, and polystyrene-tri-m-tolyl phosphate were obtained over a polymer concentration range from infinite dilution to 96 wt. %. Small molecule diffusion coefficients are seen to vary by as much as nine orders of magnitude (10−14 to 10−5 cm2/s) over this concentration range. The data are in reasonable accord with expectations based on the Duda-Vrentas version of free-volume theory.
Statistical mechanics-inspired framework for studying the effects of mixed traffic flows on highway congestion

Intelligent vehicles equipped with adaptive cruise control (ACC) technology have the potential to significantly impact the traffic flow dynamics on highways. Prior work in this area has sought to understand the impact of intelligent vehicle technologies on traffic flow by making use of mesoscopic modeling that yields closed-form solutions. However, this approach does not take into account the self-organization of vehicles into clusters of different sizes. Consequently, the predicted absence of a large traffic jam might be inadvertently offset by the presence of many smaller clusters of jammed vehicles. This study - inspired by research in the domain of statistical mechanics - uses a modification of the Potts model to study cluster formation in mixed traffic flows that include both human-driven and ACC-enabled vehicles. Specifically, the evolution of self-organized traffic jams is modeled as a non-equilibrium process in the presence of an external field and with repulsive interactions between vehicles. Monte Carlo simulations of this model at high vehicle densities suggest that traffic streams with low ACC penetration rates are likely to result in larger clusters. Vehicles spend significantly more time inside each cluster for low ACC penetration rates, as compared to streams with high ACC penetration rates.
Determining the level of sleepiness in the American population and its correlates

Abstract Objective To assess the prevalence, to determine the risk factors and to evaluate the impacts of excessive sleepiness in the general population. Method It is a cross-sectional telephone study using a representative sample consisting of 8937 non-institutionalized individuals aged 18 or over living in Texas, New York and California. They represented a total of 62.8 million inhabitants. The participation rate was 85.6% in California, 81.3% in New York and 83.2% in Texas. Interviews were managed by the Sleep-EVAL expert system. The questionnaire included questions on sleeping habits, life habits, health, DSM-IV mental disorders, DSM-IV and ICSD sleep disorders. Results As many as 19.5% of the sample reported having moderate excessive sleepiness and 11.0% reported severe excessive sleepiness. Moderate excessive sleepiness was comparable between men and women but severe excessive sleepiness was higher in women (8.6% vs. 13.0%). Factors associated with moderate excessive sleepiness were sleeping 6 h or less per main sleep episode (OR:2.0); OSAS (OR:2.0); insomnia disorder (OR:2.4); Restless Legs Syndrome (OR: 1.8) major depressive disorder (OR: 1.7); anxiety disorder (OR:1.5) and use of tricyclic antidepressant (OR: 2.1) presence of heart disease (OR: 1.5), cancer (1.8) and chronic pain (1.3). Factors associated with severe excessive sleepiness were similar with the addition of being a woman (OR:1.5), alcohol dependence (OR: 1.4), bipolar disorder (OR: 2.1), use of over-the-counter sleeping pills (OR: 2.5), narcotic analgesics (OR: 3.4), Antidepressants (other than SSRI or tricyclic) and presence of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (OR:1.6). Sleepy individuals were twice as likely than non-sleepy participants to have had accidents while they were at the wheel of a vehicle during the previous year. Conclusions Excessive sleepiness is highly prevalent in the American population. It was strongly associated with insufficient sleep and various sleep disorders as well as mental and organic diseases.
Elements in Region of Platinum Formed by Fusion in Fission Explosions

The fission products in a fission explosion at the time of the last few generations before explosion are sufficiently numerous that the probability of reaction with each other becomes measurable. In this paper the probability of fusion is calculated. It is found that the fusion of two light fission fragments is the only possible process of this type. For explosion of a mass of 14 kg of uranium or plutonium having a 25% efficiency the yield of platinum group elements is estimated as 1.2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{14}$ atoms. Although the kind of nucleus produced instantaneously with highest probability has $Z=75$ and $A=190$, the excess of kinetic energy is such as to boil off between 9 and 18 neutrons forming elements $A=175 \mathrm{to} 182$, on the low side of the stability curve. In view of the recently developed theories of supernovae explosion, involving production of ${\mathrm{Cf}}^{254}$ and other fissile nuclei, it may be important to consider the subsequent fusion of fission fragments in supernovae. If this process is sufficiently important, it may affect the astrophysical abundances of elements in the region of platinum.
A new bound for Pólya's Theorem with applications to polynomials positive on polyhedra

Let R[X]≔R[x1,…,xn] and let and Δn denote the simplex {(x1,…,xn)|xi≥0,∑ixi=1}. Polya's Theorem says that if f∈R[X] is homogeneous and positive on Δn, then for sufficiently large N all of the coefficients of (x1+⋯+xn)Nf(x1,⋯,xn) are positive. We give an explicit bound for N and an application to some special representations of polynomials positive on polyhedra. In particular, we give a bound for the degree of a representation of a polynomial positive on a convex polyhedron as a positive linear combination of products of the linear polynomials defining the polyhedron.
Electric-field-induced interferences in autoionizing resonances.

We have observed the effect of electric fields on the 5d9p ${}^{3}$${P}_{1}$\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} barium resonance above the first ionization threshold. This relatively broad autoionizing level is nearly degenerate with a much narrower level of opposite parity. At moderate fields the sharp level produces an interference dip in the broad level. At higher fields the interference eventually gives rise to two split components. The results are in good agreement with a nonperturbative theory, summarized in this letter.
SUMO-mediated regulation of DNA damage repair and responses

Sumoylation has important roles during DNA damage repair and responses. Recent broad-scope and substrate-based studies have shed light on the regulation and significance of sumoylation during these processes. An emerging paradigm is that sumoylation of many DNA metabolism proteins is controlled by DNA engagement. Such 'on-site modification' can explain low substrate modification levels and has important implications in sumoylation mechanisms and effects. New studies also suggest that sumoylation can regulate a process through an ensemble effect or via major substrates. Additionally, we describe new trends in the functional effects of sumoylation, such as bi-directional changes in biomolecule binding and multilevel coordination with other modifications. These emerging themes and models will stimulate our thinking and research in sumoylation and genome maintenance.
The influence of steps on the oxidation of molybdenum single crystal surfaces

Abstract The oxidation of the stepped Mo(910) surface has been compared with previous work on the Mo(100) and Mo(111) surfaces. During oxygen chemisorption the presence of steps inhibits the formation of several of the overlayer structures that were observed on the Mo(100) surface and allows higher saturation oxygen coverages. The formation of the oxide occurs at lower oxygen exposures but results in the same MoO 2 overlayer. The orientation of the oxide layer is influenced by the presence of steps.
Dynamic model for full-converter wind turbines employing permanent magnet alternators

Permanent magnet alternators are gaining ground in the wind turbine market due to their low maintenance requirements and suitability for offshore applications. This paper describes the development and testing of a dynamic model for full converter wind turbines employing permanent magnet alternators. The model described here is not proprietary and is a generic, manufacturer-independent model with no restrictions on its use. It can be implemented in any dynamic modeling software. Detailed representations of the wind turbine aerodynamics, mechanical drive-train, permanent magnet alternator, power converters and controllers are employed. This paper also includes details of model testing, as well as a description of the model's response to an event in the dynamic time scale.
Degradation of proteins from the ER of S. cerevisiae requires an intact unfolded protein response pathway.

Abstract To dissect the requirements of membrane protein degradation from the ER, we expressed the mouse major histocompatibility complex class I heavy chain H-2K b in yeast. Like other proteins degraded from the ER, unassembled H-2K b heavy chains are not transported to the Golgi but are degraded in a proteasome-dependent manner. The overexpression of H-2K b heavy chains induces the unfolded protein response (UPR). In yeast mutants unable to mount the UPR, H-2K b heavy chains are greatly stabilized. This defect in degradation is suppressed by the expression of the active form of Hac1p, the transcription factor that upregulates UPR-induced genes. These results indicate that induction of the UPR is required for the degradation of protein substrates from the ER.
Averaging analysis of state-switched piezoelectric structural systems

This paper develops an averaging analysis for qualitative and quantitative study of switched piezostructural systems. The study of piezostructural systems including passive and active shunt circuits has been carried out for some time. Far less is known regarding analytical methods for the study of switched piezostructural systems. The technique developed in this paper is motivated by the success of averaging methods for the analysis of switched power supplies. In this paper it is shown that averaging analysis provides a means of determining time domain as well as frequency domain response characteristics of switched piezostructural systems that include switched capacitive shunt circuits. The time domain and frequency domain performance of a tunable piezoceramic vibration absorber is derived via averaging in this paper. The proposed switching architecture provides an essentially continuous range of tunable notch frequencies, in contrast to a finite and fixed collection of discrete notch frequencies available in some implementations of capacitively shunted piezostructures. The technique for analysis appears promising for the study of vibration damping and energy harvesting piezostructures whose underlying operating principle is similar.
The Frictional Nearshore Response to Forcing by Synoptic Scale Winds

Abstract An analytic barotropic model was used to study the nearshore frictional response to synoptic-scale wind forcing. The results depend only on the region where the surface and bottom Ekman layers interact strongly and the water is consequently well mixed. Thus, the conclusions apply even to shelves where baroclinic effects are not negligible father offshore. The main findings are as follows. (i) The “blocking” of the surface Ekman flux which drives the shelf flow is a consequence of the interaction of Ekwan layers in the nearshore region. The interaction transfers progressively more of the surface stress directly to bottom stress as the depth decreases. The consequent decrease in Ekman flux toward the shore creates an Ekman flux divergence which drives the interior flow. (ii) The region over which the shelf is effectively forced is narrow. It extends, approximately, from where the depth divided by the Ekman layer e-folding scale is 0.2 to where it is 2.5. (iii) Simple equations for pressure and the ...
A Markov-Switching Vector Autoregressive Stochastic Wind Generator for Multiple Spatial and Temporal Scales

Despite recent efforts to record wind at finer spatial and temporal scales, stochastic realizations of wind are still important for many purposes and particularly for wind energy grid integration and reliability studies. Most instances of wind generation in the literature focus on simulating only wind speed, or power, or only the wind vector at a particular location and sampling frequency. In this work, we introduce a Markov-switching vector autoregressive (MSVAR) model, and we demonstrate its flexibility in simulating wind vectors for 10-min, hourly and daily time series and for individual, locally-averaged and regionally-averaged time series. In addition, we demonstrate how the model can be used to simulate wind vectors at multiple locations simultaneously for an hourly time step. The parameter estimation and simulation algorithm are presented along with a validation of the important statistical properties of each simulation scenario. We find the MSVAR to be very flexible in characterizing a wide range of properties in the wind vector, and we conclude with a discussion of extensions of this model and modeling choices that may be investigated for further improvements.
Ribosome defects in disorders of erythropoiesis

Over the past decade, genetic lesions that cause ribosome dysfunction have been identified in both congenital and acquired human disorders. These discoveries have established a new category of disorders, known as ribosomopathies, in which the primary pathophysiology is related to impaired ribosome function. The protoptypical disorders are Diamond–Blackfan anemia, a congenital bone marrow failure syndrome, and the 5q- syndrome, a subtype of myelodysplastic syndrome. In both of these disorders, impaired ribosome function causes a severe macrocytic anemia. In this review, we will discuss the evidence that defects in ribosomal biogenesis cause the hematologic phenotype of Diamond–Blackfan anemia and the 5q- syndrome. We will also explore the potential mechanisms by which a ribosomal defect, which would be expected to have widespread consequences, may lead to specific defects in erythropoiesis.
Highly-resolved three-dimensional velocity measurements via Dual-Plane Stereo Particle Image Velocimetry (DSPIV) in turbulent flows

A frequency-based dual-plane stereoscopic particle image velocimetry (DSPIV) technique is presented that permits fully-resolved simultaneous measurement of all nine components of the instantaneous velocity gradient tensor field ∇u(x,t) at the small scales of a turbulent flow. The technique is based on two essentially independent stereo PIV systems that provide three-component velocity measurements in two differentially-spaced light sheets of different colors, in this case 532 nm and 635 nm. Differentiation of the resulting velocity components within each plane and between the two planes yields all nine velocity gradient tensor ∂u i /∂x j . Spatial scales relevant to the flow and the spatial resolution achievable with such measurements are discussed. Control of the light sheet thickness, separation, and parallelism over the field-of-view of the PIV cameras are essential for the technique. Methods to accurately measure and quantify these issues are presented, along with results for the present DSPIV configuration. A calibration method, error analysis, and system performance study using synthetic PIV data characterizes the accuracy of the DSPIV technique. Preliminary results show encouraging velocity vector fields in the two differentiallyspaced data planes. The resulting velocity gradient field ∇u(x,t) provides all three components of the vorticity vector field ω(x,t) and all six components of the strain rate tensor field e(x,t). These in turn permit access to fields of central relevance to the turbulence dynamics, including the kinetic energy dissipation rate field 2ν e :e(x,t), the enstrophy field ω :ω(x,t), and the enstrophy production rate field ω · e·ω(x,t).
Contributions of Seismology to Plate Tectonics: ABSTRACT

The hard observational facts of seismology have been and are being used to test and develop the hypotheses of continental drift, sea-floor spreading, plate tectonics, and related matters. Three kinds of evidence are particularly important in such studies: (1) seismicity, (2) focal mechanisms, and (3) wave propagation and inferred earth structure. The quality and quantity of such evidence, especially types (1) and (2), increased rapidly in the 1960s as a result of new observational facilities, particularly the World-Wide Standardized Seismograph Network, established under the United States VELA Uniform Project. In general, evidence from seismology strongly supports and contributes greatly to the new tectonics. Many major and previously unexplained observations, such as the spatial distribution of deep earthquakes and the worldwide pattern of seismicity and focal mechanisms, fall neatly into place. No serious obstacles to the new tectonics are found in seismology. Present research on this topic is directed toward development and refinement of the model so as to explain the seismologic observations in greater detail. Many major, challenging topics for investigation remain. End_of_Article - Last_Page 356------------
Accelerated Wear Test Using Magnetic-Particle Slurries

Few methods exist today for measuring the wear properties of magnetic-head ferrites and/or magnetic-tape particles other than by actual testing of a head or tape. The method described in this paper is basically a simple one. It uses a standard, metallurgical polishing process on a ferrite chip module, substituting a magnetic-particle slurry for the abrasive. Wear is measured using the long diagonal of knoop indentations before and after the wear tests. Test were conducted to study the effects of time, speed, pressure, and slurry concentration. Wear, which increases with slurry concentration, was linearly related to time, speed, and pressure. The slope of curves is different below and above a slurry concentration of 20 g/l. Based on these tests, convenient test, convenient test parameters were selected, and subsequent tests were conducted on different ferrites and magnetic particles to demonstrate the feasibility of the test techniques. Results obtained by slurry tests are consistent with other known wear ...
The effect of the recent insider-trading scandal on stock prices of securities firms

This paper addresses the impact of the unethical business conduct of a few individuals that shook the financial market in 1986. Specifically, in the study undertaken for this paper, the wealth status of the shareholders of securities firms was examined in relation to the public disclosure of the insider-trading scandals involving Dennis Levine, Ivan Boesky, and their confederates. It was hypothesized that the expected market-adjusted stock returns for the securities firms would be negative as a result of the scandals. The findings of the study supported the hypothesis.
Postoperative stereoacuity following realignment for chronic acquired strabismus in adults.

Background: There is controversy regarding whether or not visually mature individuals can permanently lose stereoacuity and under what conditions stereoacuity can be regained. Some have proposed a critical duration of misalignment in adults beyond which recovery of fine stereoacuity is not possible, despite successful surgical alignment. Methods: Twenty-one adult patients (median age 59 years) with large-angle acquired strabismus and who were successfully surgically aligned after 7 to 501 months of misalignment were studied. Subjects had no evidence of motor or sensory fusion since the onset of strabismus, on preoperative exam, or by history. Stereoacuity was measured using 1 or more of the Frisby, Preschool Randot and Titmus tests, at 8 weeks and at 12 months. Data from tests with monocular clues were not used. Results: At total of 67% of patients with chronic acquired strabismus and no preoperative fusion regained measurable stereoacuity and 44% regained fine stereoacuity of at least 60 seconds of arc. Of 10 patients with no or subnormal stereoacuity 8 weeks postoperatively, 6 (60%) showed improvement at the 12-month visit. Misalignment for up to 4 years did not preclude the development of postoperative stereoacuity. Conclusions: Although a minority of adult strabismus patients may permanently lose stereoacuity despite successful alignment for acquired strabismus, the majority do show recovery. Such recovery of stereoacuity may take several months to occur. In our adult series, duration of misalignment did not predict failure to recover stereoacuity. (J AAPOS 2002;6:233-7)
Central pulse pressure in chronic kidney disease: A chronic renal insufficiency cohort ancillary study

Central pulse pressure (PP) can be noninvasively derived using the radial artery tonometric methods. Knowledge of central pressure profiles has predicted cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in several populations of patients, particularly those with known coronary artery disease and those receiving dialysis. Few data exist characterizing central pressure profiles in patients with mild-moderate chronic kidney disease who are not on dialysis. We measured central PP cross-sectionally in 2531 participants in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort Study to determine correlates of the magnitude of central PP in the setting of chronic kidney disease. Tertiles of central PP were 51 mm Hg with an overall mean (+/-SD) of 46+/-19 mm Hg. Multivariable regression identified the following independent correlates of central PP: age, sex, diabetes mellitus, heart rate (negatively correlated), glycosylated hemoglobin, hemoglobin, glucose, and parathyroid hormone parathyroid hormone concentrations. Additional adjustment for brachial mean arterial pressure and brachial PP showed associations for age, sex, diabetes mellitus, weight, and heart rate. Discrete intervals of brachial PP stratification showed substantial overlap within the associated central PP values. The large size of this unique chronic kidney disease cohort provides an ideal situation to study the role of brachial and central pressure measurements in kidney disease progression and cardiovascular disease incidence.
Ge/SiGe Quantum Confined Stark Effect Modulators on Silicon

We have demonstrated efficient QCSE in silicon-based structures, using strained Ge MQWs. The behavior of the exciton peaks, the band edge shift and the shift in absorption coefficient are comparable to those observed in III-V materials at similar wavelengths. Our materials and fabrication processes are completely CMOS compatible and suitable for mass production. This approach is therefore very promising for silicon-based electro-absorption modulators operating at high speed, low power, and low operating voltage and with small device areas