cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genetic algorithms and tabu search: hybrids for optimization

Abstract Genetic algorithms and tabu search have a number of significant differences. They also have some common bonds, often unrecognized. We explore the nature of the connections between the methods, and show that a variety of opportunities exist for creating hybrid approaches to take advantage of their complementary features. Tabu search has pioneered the systematic exploration of memory functions in search processes, while genetic algorithms have pioneered the implementation of methods that exploit the idea of combining solutions. There is also another approach, related to both of these, that is frequently overlooked. The procedure called scatter search, whose origins overlap with those of tabu search (and roughly coincide with the emergence of genetic algorithms) also proposes mechanisms for combining solutions, with useful features that offer a bridge between tabu search and genetic algorithms. Recent generalizations of scatter search concepts, embodied in notions of structured combinations and path relinking, have produced effective strategies that provide a further basis for integrating GA and TS approaches. A prominent TS component called strategic oscillation is susceptible to exploitation by GA processes as a means of creating useful degrees of diversity and of allowing effective transitions between feasible and infeasible regions. The independent success of genetic algorithms and tabu search in a variety of applications suggests that each has features that are valuable for solving complex problems. The thesis of this paper is that the study of methods that may be created from their union can provide useful benefits in diverse settings.
Generation of macroscopic magnetic-field-aligned electric fields by the convection surge ion acceleration mechanism

The 'convection surge' model for ion acceleration, designed by Mauk (1986) to explain the observed ion distributions and the field-aligned character of middle magnetospheric ion distributions during the expansion phase of a substorm, was extended to include the self-consistent generation of magnetic-field-aligned electric fields. Results from the modified model show that the convection surge mechanism leads to the generation of dynamical macroscopic magnetic field-aligned electric fields that begin their strongest developments very near the magnetic equator and then propagate to higher latitudes. Potential drops as high as 1 to 10 kV might be expected, depending on the mass species of the ions and on the electron temperatures. It is speculated that the convection surge mechanism could be a key player in the transient field-aligned electromagnetic processes observed to operate within the middle magnetosphere.
The Pleuropulmonary Manifestations Of The Postcardiac Injury Syndrome

This study was designed to investigate the frequency and diagnostic importance of the pleuropulmonary manifestations of the postcardiac injury syndrome. A retrospective study of 35 patients (2 to 76 years old) with clearly defined postcardiac injury syndrome is presented. Twenty-one cases followed cardiac surgery, and 14 appeared after myocardial infarction. The onset of the syndrome was an average of 20 days following injury. The major clinical findings were pleurisy (91 percent; 32/35), fever (66 percent; 23/35), pericardial rub (63 percent; 22/35), dyspnea (57 percent; 20/35), rales (51 percent; 18/35), pleural rub (46 percent; 16/35), elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (96 percent; 25/26), and leukocytosis (49 percent; 17/35). The chest roentgenogram was abnormal in 94 percent (33/35). Pleural effusion was present in 83 percent (29/35), parenchymal infiltrates in 74 percent (26/35), and an enlarged cardiac silhouette in 49 percent (17/35). Analysis of pleural fluid was performed on 16 samples from 12 patients and revealed a bloody exudate with a pH greater than 7.40. The data presented document that pleuropulmonary involvement is a common manifestation of postcardiac injury syndrome. In addition, we discuss how these findings can be used to differentiate this syndrome from other clinical entities that may appear following cardiac injury, ie, parapneumonic effusions, congestive heart failure, and pulmonary embolism.
An Exploratory Study of the America's Family Program: Using a New Leadership Paradigm to Break the Cycle of Failure

Abstract Millions of U.S. employees work in the service-sector at relatively low wages with little or no benefits or advancement opportunities. Due to high turnover rates, business organizations often limit spending on human resource (HR) practices for these workers. In turn, these employees become less committed to the organization, thereby reinforcing this “cycle of failure.” In this manuscript we present a preliminary study of a new approach, involving a partnership effort among government, non-profits, and business, to break this cycle of failure. This new approach is based on the principles of the new governance model of public administration. Both interview and organizational data are collected to assess the impact of this program on both employees and the organization. Implications for research in business and public administration are discussed, including insights from the emerging spirituality leadership literature into the underlying motivation for developing this type of program.
Systematic variation in DNA length yields highly ordered repressor-operator cocrystals

Crystals have been grown that contain the operator-binding domain of the lambda repressor and the lambda operator site OL1. Crystallization conditions were tested with a set of DNA fragments, ranging in length from 17 to 23 base pairs. The best crystals were grown with a 20-base pair DNA fragment. These crystals have space-group symmetry P2I, with unit cell dimensions a = 37.1 A, b = 68.8 A, c = 56.8 A, and a beta angle of 91.5 degrees. They diffracted to at least 2.5 A resolution. High resolution data from these crystals should allow the direct determination of how a repressor recognizes its operator site.
RUSKIN AND HIS “GOOD MASTER,” WILLIAM BUCKLAND

The enclosed having come into my hands being a Letter written by my Son to a Literary gentleman who had lent him a Work of Dr. Croly containing some remarks on your Rel Deluv, I having thought it might amuse you to see the Zeal of one of your Disciples, & therefore take the liberty of sending it, but I have a twofold motive believing that should your leisure ever allow of your glancing at the paper you might have an estimate of my Sons Knowledge of the Science he takes such delight in & aid him the more easily by occasional hints which the Intercourse so indulgently granted him by you may afford him the means of deriving.
Dielectric behavior and atomic structure of serum albumin

Abstract After 1946, serum albumin was available for studies. Its residue sequence and internal disulfide bonding was developed by 1976. We began to make dielectric dispersion studies and apply Perrin's equations for rotational relaxation times around the two axes of revolution in 1938. These data indicated that albumin should have an elongated shape. In 1992 atomic structure data indicated the molecule was heart-shaped. A similar 1998 study of albumin complexed with fatty acid showed that the molecule was substantially rearranged. We found that the dielectric constant of albumin solutions was sensitive to fatty acid content, making this property an attractive probe in stop–flow kinetic studies. Such studies show that the fatty acid reaction is a two-step process. The fatty acid first binds to exterior sites in a diffusion-limited second order reaction complete in 1 ms. Then a first order rearrangement reaction with ∼400 ms half-life follows. Thus the highly specialized serum albumin sequence of amino acid residues determines not only the structure of the unligated molecule, but also the distinctive structures of the numerous multiligated molecules.
Homogeneous nucleation during crystallization of amorphous silicon produced by low-pressure chemical vapour deposition

Abstract The microstructure of relatively thick polycrystalline silicon (polysilicon) films formed by low-pressure chemical vapour deposition has been studied by transmission electron microscopy for deposition temperatures between 550 and 615°C. The films show two distinct microstructural regimes at the low and high end of this range, with an intermediate transition region. The films deposited between 550 and 590°C are partially amorphous as deposited, as the films begin to crystallize during the latter stages of deposition. Both homogeneous nucleation and growth in the bulk of the films and heterogeneous nucleation and growth at the film-substrate interface are observed. The homogeneously nucleated crystallites are approximately ellipsoidal in shape and contain numerous planar twin boundary defects; the major axes of the ellipsoids are parallel to (112) or (110), that is the growth rates along (112) and (110) are similar and are faster than along other directions. Analysis of the homogeneous crystallizat...
Electron pitch angle distributions as indicators of magnetic field topology near Mars

[1] We have analyzed electron angular distributions recorded near Mars over a period of 7 years in order to constrain the topology of magnetic field lines near Mars. We used 63 million pitch angle distributions of 115 eV electrons measured at ∼400 km altitudes by the Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) spacecraft and classified them according to their shape. Closed magnetic field lines are associated with the Martian crustal magnetic fields and are identified on the nightside by the presence of plasma voids or two-sided loss cones (trapped distributions). Trapped distributions on the nightside are most often observed in regions surrounding moderate or strong crustal fields, indicating a source process such as reconnection populates the outer layers of closed magnetic field regions. Open magnetic field lines are identified in regions of strong crustal magnetic field by the absence of field-aligned electrons returning from the planet (loss cones). In regions far from crustal sources many field lines intersect the collisional atmosphere. On the Martian dayside, closed field lines are identified by the presence of trapped or fully isotropic distributions, and they occur at times when ionospheric photoelectron features are evident in MGS electron energy spectra. Variability of the dominant pitch angle distribution shape in certain regions suggests that Martian magnetic field topology is dynamic and is controlled by external conditions.
Reconstitution of binding protein-dependent ribose transport in spheroplasts of Escherichia coli K-12.

Abstract Purified Escherichia coli K-12 ribose binding protein was used to reconstitute the high affinity ribose transport system in spheroplasts derived from ribose-induced cells. It was not possible to reconstitute ribose transport in spheroplasts derived from uninduced cells or from transport-negative mutant strains, suggesting that one or more additional inducible components are required for binding protein-dependent ribose transport. It was possible to reconstitute transport in a ribokinase-deficient mutant which constitutively transports but does not utilize ribose.
Room temperature culture extends the useful life of adult neurons for voltage-clamp experiments.

Abstract Isolated superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons were maintained in vitro at 22°C (22°C neurons) for up to 4 days in an effort to inhibit process outgrowth and thus extend the useful life of SCG neurons for voltage-clamp experiments. The neurons were viable after 4 days in vitro and remained roughly spherical whereas neurons maintained in vitro at 37°C (37°C neurons) developed extensive neurite processes after 2 days. The resting potential of 22°C neurons was more hyperpolarized and the action potential duration was reduced compared to acutely isolated neurons (acute neurons) or 37°C neurons. The steady state Na + current activation and inactivation parameters of the acute and 22°C neurons were similar whereas the half activation voltage was hyperpolarized and the slope factor of inactivation was reduced for the 37°C neurons compared to the other two groups. The Na + currents recorded from the 37°C neurons displayed obvious signs of poor voltage control which were not observed in the acute or 22°C neurons. The acetylcholine (ACh) sensitivity of both 22°C and 37°C neurons was significantly less than that of the acute neurons. This report demonstrates that room temperature culture of SCG neurons is a simple method which prevents process outgrowth and thus extends the useful life of the neurons for voltage-clamp experiments.
Spread of Masking in Normal Subjects and in Subjects with High-Frequency Hearing Loss

Upward spread of masking and remote masking were investigated in 4 subjects with closely matched high-frequency hearing losses. Masked thresholds in the presence of a high-frequency or a low-frequency bandpass noise were obtained using an adaptive-threshold procedure. ‘Abnormal’ upward spread of masking existed for the impaired subjects at some test frequencies when compared to the masking predicted on the basis of normal masking results and hearing-impaired quiet thresholds. Remote masking thresholds were usually shifted to the same absolute levels for normal and hearing-impaired subjects. These results demonstrate that speech reception in noise for listeners with high-frequency hearing loss could be affected by spread of masking and levels of hearing loss.L'etalement du masquage vers le haut et le masquage a distance ont ete analyses chez 4 patients presentant des pertes auditives de caracteristiques analogues sur les hautes frequences. Les seuils masques en presence d'une bande de bruit haute ou basse ...
Effect of ageing media on gel structure and monolithicity

Silica gels were prepared from direct reaction of tetraethyloxysilane (TEOS) with water under acidic conditions. Different molar ratios of water to TEOS, and various ageing media were investigated to improve monolithicity. The transformation of the gel as a function of temperature was monitored by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy. The gel properties influenced by different ageing media were determined by measurement of density and specific surface area. The results show that by ageing wet gel in different solutions, the microstructure of a gel is changed, and also the monolithicity of the dried gel is improved.
OMVPE growth of highly strain-balanced GaInAs/AlInAs/InP for quantum cascade lasers

Abstract The growth and characterization of highly strain-balanced (SB) GaInAs/AlInAs/InP quantum-well heterostructures for mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are reported. Growth conditions were established to provide a step-flow growth mode, which is believed to be important for precise thickness control of the ultrathin (∼1 nm) epilayers of the injector/active QCL regions. Heterostructures with GaInAs and AlInAs absolute layer strain ranging from 0.5% to as high as 1.5% were grown by organometallic vapor-phase epitaxy at a growth temperature of 580 °C and utilized tertiarybutyl arsine and tertiarybutyl phospine as group V sources and triethylgallium, trimethylindium, and trimethylaluminum as group III sources. Growth was optimized by characterization of SB GaInAs/AlInAs/InP multiple quantum-well structures using high-resolution X-ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic force microscopy. Similar surface step structure and XRD spectra were obtained over the 0.5–1.5% SB range. QCLs with nominal strain balance of 1% and based on a four-quantum-well double-phonon resonance-active region design were grown and processed as ridge lasers. These lasers operate at 4.8 μm in pulsed mode at room temperature with a threshold current density of 1.3 kA/cm 2 , peak power of 1.74 W, and power-conversion efficiency of 9.7%. These results are comparable to state-of-the-art QCLs grown by molecular beam epitaxy.
Immunolocalization of Alpha-Actinin in Adult Chicken Skeletal Muscles

Immunoelectron microscopy techniques were used to localize alpha-actinin within the Z lattice of adult skeletal muscles. Analysis of electron micrographs by direct visualization demonstrated that anti-alpha-actinin Fab fragments bound throughout the Z lattice. A low-resolution scanning densitometry technique was developed to quantitate the visual increase in the density of the Z lattice. These techniques did not allow determination of the particular component of the Z lattice, amorphous matrix, axial filaments, or cross-connecting filaments with which the antibody was associated. Therefore, additional techniques, including direct measurement of filament diameters and optical diffraction, were utilized in determining which components of the Z lattice bound anti-alpha-actinin Fab fragments. These analyses suggest that the antibody binding is distributed evenly throughout the lattice, along the filaments, and between them and is confined to the region of double overlap of the ends of the thin filaments.
Characteristics that identify Hispanic women likely to be ill informed about heart attack and stroke symptoms: An analysis of 2003–2005 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey data

AimThe research question for this study was: Are there within-group disparities in Hispanic women’s knowledge of heart attack and stroke symptomology?BackgroundHispanics constitute the fastest growing group in the US and have surpassed other racial and ethnic groups to become the largest US minority. Hispanics make up about one-third of the US population, and hence are a group of significant interest for health care providers. Few studies have examined heart attack and stroke symptom awareness among adult Hispanic women, a group at high risk for delays in treatment. Research is needed to elucidate their knowledge of warning symptoms for these vascular events.MethodsBehavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey data from states using the 2003–2005 Heart and Stroke module were examined by multivariate techniques. To maximize the representativeness of the sample, three years of survey data (2003–2005) were amalgamated into a single dataset. If a given state administered the Heart and Stroke module in multiple years, only the data from the most recent year were included in the merged dataset. In the final analysis, data from 23 states, one territory and the District of Columbia were included in the combined 2003–2005 database. The unweighted sample size for the population of interest for the years 2003–2005 was 3146. For analysis these data were weighted to represent 2 641 024 Hispanic women aged 18 years and older who answered questions about heart attack and stroke symptoms.FindingsAdult Hispanic women earning low scores on the heart attack and stroke knowledge questions were more likely to have less than a high school education, be uninsured, live in a household with an annual income of <$35 000 and not have a primary care provider.DiscussionThese results suggest that strategies to educate Hispanic women on signs and symptoms of heart attack and stroke might benefit from targeting women in these groups.
Multiple-pair upconversion in Er3+-doped crystals of CsMgCl3, CsMgBr3, and CsCdBr3

Intense visible to uv up-conversion emission is observed in Er3+ doped crystals of CsMgCl3, CsMgBr3 and CsCdBr3 when the 4S3/2 (E), 2H11/2 (F) and 4F7/2 (G) states of Er3+ are pumped. The host crystals are of CsNiCl3 type which exhibit a linear chain structure. These hosts incorporate trivalent rare earth ions such as Er3+ to form a M3+-vacancy-M3+ pair center. When both ions in an Er3+-vacancy-Er3+ center are simultaneously excited an efficient energy transfer occurs between Er3+ ions.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Nutrition Education May Reduce Burden in Family Caregivers of Older Adults

The chronic, demanding nature of family caregiving for frail older adults creates a high degree of stress for caregivers, called caregiver burden. Caregiver burden compromises caregivers' emotional and physical health and health-promoting behaviors. Deterioration in caregivers' health and nutritional status may put caregivers at risk for chronic disease, diminish the ability of caregivers to provide care, and impair the quality of life experienced by caregivers and care recipients. Nutrition education may help reduce caregiver stress and maintain caregivers' health and well-being. Mediating caregiver stress may allow family caregivers to meet their societal role, which has intensified because of health care cost containment.
Semi-Implicit Time-Integrators for a Scalable Spectral Element Atmospheric Model

The Naval Research Laboratory's spectral element atmospheric model (NSEAM) for scalable computer architectures is presented. This new dynamical core is based on a high-order spectral element (SE) method in space and uses semi-implicit methods in time based on either the traditional second-order leapfrog (LF2) or second-order backward difference formulas (BDF2). The novelties of NSEAM are: it is geometrically flexible and thereby can accommodate any type of grid; LF2 or BDF2 are used to construct the semi-implicit method; and the horizontal operators are written, discretized, and solved in three-dimensional Cartesian space. The semi-implicit NSEAM is validated using: five baroclinic test cases; direct comparisons to the explicit version of NSEAM which has been extensively tested and the results previously reported in the literature; and comparisons with operational weather prediction and well-established climate models. A comparison with the US Navy's spectral transform global forecast model illustrates that NSEAM is 60% faster on an IBM SP4 using 96 processors for the current operational resolution of T239 L30. However, NSEAM can accommodate many more processors while continuing to scale efficiently even at higher grid resolutions. In fact, we show that at T498 L60, NSEAM scales linearly up to 384 processors. Copyright © 2005 Royal Meteorological Society
Postpartum Exercise and Food Intake: The Importance of Behavior-Specific Self-efficacy

Abstract Objective To examine the relationships between psychosocial characteristics and change in exercise and food intake of women during the first year postpartum. Design A prospective cohort study following women from pregnancy until 1 year postpartum. Psychosocial variables, change in food intake, and exercise frequency were assessed using anonymous mailed questionnaires during pregnancy and at 1 year postpartum. Sociodemographic and anthropometric information was obtained from the medical record. Subjects/setting Six hundred twenty-two women who enrolled for prenatal care in the Bassett Healthcare system between November 7, 1994, and November 15, 1996, and who met the eligibility criteria. The attrition rate for completing the questionnaire at 1 year postpartum was 20%. Statistical analyses performed Multivariate linear regression with exercise frequency at 1 year postpartum and change in food intake during the second 6 months postpartum as the dependent variables and psychosocial factors assessed at 1 year postpartum as the independent variables, controlling for sociodemographic variables, body mass index, and gestational weight gain. Results Higher exercise self-efficacy and having the intention to exercise were associated with more frequent exercise at 1 year postpartum in the multivariate regression analysis (r 2 =20%). Food intake self-efficacy, body satisfaction, weight gain acceptance, and drive for thinness were all significant in the multivariate analysis (r 2 =7%) and higher scores on these variables were associated with reductions in food intake. Applications/conclusions Interventions that aim to help women get regular exercise and make appropriate reductions in food intake during the postpartum period should focus on self-efficacy specific to the targeted behaviors. For example, dietitians may strengthen exercise self-efficacy by providing postpartum women with mastery experiences of setting realistic exercise goals. Likewise, dietitians can focus on food intake self-efficacy by modeling strategies that women can use to avoid overeating in stressful situations. J Am Diet Assoc. 2001;101:1430-1437.
On the channel-sensitive delay behavior of LIFO-backpressure

In this paper, we study the delay performance of backpressure routing algorithms using LIFO schedulers (LIFO-backpressure). We uncover a surprising behavior in which, under certain channel conditions, the average delay of packets decreases as the traffic load in the network increases. We propose and analyze a queueing-theoretic model under which the scheduler can transmit packets only if the queue length (i.e., the number of packets in the queue) meets or exceeds a threshold, and we show that the model analytically bears out the observed phenomenon. Using matrix geometric methods, we derive a numerical solution for the average packet delay in the general case, and, using z-transform techniques, we further provide closed-form solutions for the average delay in special cases. Our analysis indicates that when the threshold is fixed (as may happen under lossless channel conditions), the average delay increases with increasing traffic load, as expected. On the other hand, when the threshold fluctuates (as may happen under changing, lossy channel conditions), the average delay may decrease, sometimes substantially, with the traffic load. We corroborate these findings with TOSSIM simulations using real channel traces and run on different types of networks.
Notch Sensitivity of Fatigue Behavior of a Hi-Nicalon™/SiC-B 4 C Composite at 1,200 °C in Air and in Steam

The effect of holes on the fatigue life of a non-oxide ceramic composite processed via chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) was examined at 1,200 °C in laboratory air and in steam. The effect of holes on tensile strength at 1,200 °C was also evaluated. The composite comprised laminated woven Hi-Nicalon™ fibers in an oxidation inhibited matrix, which consisted of alternating layers of silicon carbide and boron carbide. Fiber preforms had pyrolytic carbon fiber coating with boron carbon overlay applied. Unnotched specimens and specimens with a center hole having a radius to width ratio of 0.24 were tested in tension-tension fatigue at 0.1 Hz and at 1.0 Hz. The fatigue stresses ranged from 100 to 140 MPa in air and in steam. Fatigue run-out was defined as 105 cycles at 0.1 Hz and as 2 × 105 cycles at 1.0 Hz. The net-section strength was less than the unnotched ultimate tensile strength. Comparison of notched and unnotched data also revealed that the fatigue performance was notch insensitive in both air and steam environments. Composite microstructure, as well as damage and failure mechanisms were investigated.
Fabrication of micrometer-scale structures on GaAs and GaAs/AlGaAs quantum well material using microcontact printing

Microcontact printing (CP) was used in conjunction with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of hexadecanethiolates to fabricate gold etch masks on GaAs and GaAs/AlGaAs quantum-well substrates; patterns in the mask were transferred into the semiconductor with an anisotropic dry chemical-etch process. The measured luminescence efficiency of the etched features in GaAs/AlGaAs was similar to that of samples patterned using conventional lithography; this observation indicates that no mechanical or chemical damage is incurred in the CP process.
Tumorigenicity and genotoxicity of an environmental pollutant 2,7-dinitrofluorene after systemic administration at a low dose level to female rats.

Environmental pollution with nitroaromatic compounds may pose health hazards. We have examined the tumorigenicity in female Sprague-Dawley rats of 2,7-dinitrofluorene (2,7-diNF) and 9-oxo-2,7-diNF administered by intraperitoneal (i.p.) and oral routes at 10 μmol/kg body weight, 3 times per week for 4 weeks. After i.p. treatment, the estimated median latency for the combined malignant and benign mammary tumors was decreased in 2,7-diNF- (p = 0.003) or 9-oxo-2,7-diNF-treated (p = 0.007), relative to vehicle-treated rats (42 or 64 vs. 80 weeks, respectively), whereas after oral dosing, there were no significant differences. At 90 weeks, the malignant mammary tumor incidence in 2,7-diNF-, 9-oxo-2,7-diNF- and vehicle-i.p. treated rats was 44 (p = 0.02 vs. vehicle-treated), 25 and 6%, respectively. Liver and mammary gland DNA was analyzed by HPLC combined with electrospray tandem mass spectrometry for the presence of a deoxyguanosine (dG-2,7-diNF) adduct and a deoxyadenosine (dA-2,7-diNF) adduct derived from 2,7-diNF, and a deoxyguanosine (dG-9-oxo-2,7-diNF) adduct derived from 9-oxo-2,7-diNF. Both dG-2,7-diNF and dA-2,7-diNF were detected in DNA of 2,7-diNF-treated rats, whereas only very low levels of dG-9-oxo-2,7-diNF were detected in DNA of 9-oxo-2,7-diNF-treated rats. After i.p. treatment, the dA-2,7-diNF level was higher (p < 0.01) in the mammary gland than liver (13.6 vs. 7.8 adducts/108 nucleotides). In the mammary gland, the dG-2,7-diNF level was higher (p < 0.05) after i.p. than oral dosing and also higher (p < 0.05) than in the liver (36 vs. 8.6 and vs. 9.1 adducts/108 nucleotides, respectively). The preferential display of carcinogenicity and genotoxicity in the mammary gland by low doses of 2,7-diNF signifies its potential relevance for environmental breast cancer. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
From Viruses to Russian Roulette to Dance: A Rhetorical Critique and Creation of Genetic Metaphors

This article critiques and creates metaphoric genetic rhetoric by examining metaphors for genes used by representatives of the lay American public. We assess these metaphors with a new rhetorical orientation that we developed by building onto work by Robert Ivie and social scientific qualitative studies of audiences. Specifically, our analysis reveals three themes of genetic metaphors, with the first two appearing most frequently: (1) genes as a disease or problem, (2) genes as fire or bomb, and (3) genes as gambling. We not only discuss the problems and untapped potential of these metaphors, but also we suggest metaphorically understanding genes interacting with the environment as a dance or a band. This article has implications for rhetorical criticism, science studies, and public health.
Proof of concept for perturbation-based balance training in older adults at a high risk for falls.

UNLABELLED: Bieryla KA, Madigan ML. Proof of concept for perturbation-based balance training in older adults at a high risk for falls. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of perturbation-based balance training (PBBT) on time to stabilization (TTS) after a nonstepping response to a postural perturbation in older adults at a high risk for falls. DESIGN: Single-subject design. Participants completed 4 baseline tests, 1 month of PBBT, and posttraining tests both 1 week and 1 month after training. SETTING: Assisted-living facility. PARTICIPANTS: Older adults (N=5; mean ± SD age, 85±6.5y; residents of assisted-living facility) at a high risk for falls. INTERVENTION: PBBT involved 3 sessions a week for 4 weeks. Each session involved standing for 50 trials on a pneumatic instrumented moving platform that translated 0 to 0.08m forward or 0 to 0.13m backward in approximately 390ms (average velocity, 0.25m/s). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Time to stabilization of center of pressure (COP) after a perturbation on the moving platform. RESULTS: TTS of COP was 41.6% shorter than baseline tests (P Language: en
Microwave vegetation indexes derived from satellite microwave radiometers

Major uncertainties in deriving vegetation indices from satellite measurements are the effects of atmosphere and background soil conditions. Through numerical simulations by surface emission model - Advanced Integral Equation Model (AIEM), we found that bare surface emissivities at different frequencies can be well characterized by a linear function with parameters that are dependent on the pair of frequencies to be used. This makes it possible to minimize the surface emission signal and maximize the vegetation signal when using multi- frequency radiometer measurements. Using the radiative transfer model (omega-tau model), a linear relationship between the brightness temperatures observed at two adjacent radiometer frequencies can be derived. It can be shown that the microwave vegetation index derived by the intercept and slope of this linear function depends only on vegetation properties and can be derived from the dual-frequency and dual-polarization measurements. We will demonstrate the theoretical basis of this new microwave vegetation index and show comparisons of the microwave derived vegetation index with the optical sensor derived NDVI measurements.
The impact of simulator fidelity on colonoscopic skill acquisition. A randomized trial between high and low fidelity colonoscopic simulators

Introduction Colonoscopic simulators offer the opportunity for skill acquisition in the pre-clinical setting. Available simulators vary widely with respect to fidelity and technological sophistication. We hypothesize that novice learners can acquire basic colonoscopic skills using simulators however fidelity of the simulator does not make a difference. Methods Novice third year medical students were randomly assigned to practice on a low- fidelity (lo-fid group) or high-fidelity (hi-fid group) colonoscopy model. The low-fidelity model is described in module 16 of the ACS/APDS Surgical Skills Curriculum for Residents, Phase 1: Basic/Core Skills and Tasks. The high-fidelity model was the AccuTouch colonoscopy simulator, Immerson Medical (AccuTouch-CS). Both groups had 16 students and were given standard instruction by an expert. Both groups were pre and post tested on level 1 of the AccuTouch-CS. The hi-fid group practiced on level 2 and 4 of the AccuTouch-CS while the low-fid group practiced on the low-fidelity model for 2 sessions of 1 hour each. The computer based evaluation parameters available on the AccuTouch-CS were used to compare performances. Results Both groups had similar demographics. There were no significant differences in the base line performances of either group. Each group demonstrated significant improvement for insertion time and percentage of mucosa visualized. The low-fid group also improved significantly for total time. However, there were no significant differences between groups on post testing on any of the measured parameters ( Table ). Computer-based Colonoscopy Performance Parameters Hi-fid group Mean Score Lo-fid group Mean Score Parameter Pre Post Pre Post Total Time 1051 1037 1112 ⁎ 835 Insertion Time 426 ⁎ 331 481 ⁎ 255 Withdrawal Time 609 716 633 574 Maximum Scope Depth 119 120 119 121 Percentage Visualized 86 ⁎ 96 88 ⁎ 97 Total Path Length 418 482 540 522 Percentage Redout 8.2 9.6 11.7 9.2 Total Air Insufflated 2246 1669 2678 2114 Percentage Air Left 95 91 97 95 ⁎ Statistically significant difference between pre and post performance. Conclusions Colonoscopic skill training on a low-fidelity model appears to be as effective as high-fidelity model training for basic endoscopic skill acquisition for novice learners.
Generating ∼90 nanometer features using near-field contact-mode photolithography with an elastomeric phase mask

This article describes a near-field photolithographic method that uses an elastomeric phase mask in conformal contact with photoresist. The method is capable of generating ∼90 nm lines in commercially available photoresist, using broadband, incoherent light with wavelengths between 330 and 460 nm. Transfer of these patterns into silicon dioxide and gold demonstrates the integrity of the patterned resist.
An XML-Based Intelligent Agent Protocol Design Framework for Individualized Privacy Postures within Trusted Network Environments

AbstractFuture inter-networking environments will involve extensive interaction between multiple servers, users and their agents. Currently, numerous forms of trusted network environments facilitate the use of agents. Corporate intranets, secure extranets, B2B partnerships, and collaborative e-marketplaces are just a few examples. Although these environments presume trust, they still provide considerable risk to privacy and liability exposure to all parties involved. Therefore, it will be imperative that intelligent agents act according to the desired intentions of the agents’ owners who develop and introduce them. The XML-based protocol presented in this paper provides a practical approach to the provision of such compliance. Agents, if embedded with these protocols, will demonstrate behavior consistent with the desired privacy posture of the owner along several key continua, while still maintaining an autonomous nature.
Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα) and PPAR gamma coactivator (PGC-1α) induce carnitine palmitoyltransferase IA (CPT-1A) via independent gene elements

Long chain fatty acids and pharmacologic ligands for the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARα) activate expression of genes involved in fatty acid and glucose oxidation including carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1A (CPT-1A) and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4). CPT-1A catalyzes the transfer of long chain fatty acids from acyl-CoA to carnitine for translocation across the mitochondrial membranes and is an initiating step in the mitochondrial oxidation of long chain fatty acids. PDK4 phosphorylates and inhibits the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) which catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA in the glucose oxidation pathway. The activity of CPT-1A is modulated both by transcriptional changes as well as by malonyl-CoA inhibition. In the liver, CPT-1A and PDK4 gene expression are induced by starvation, high fat diets and PPARα ligands. Here, we characterized a binding site for PPARα in the second intron of the rat CPT-1A gene. Our studies indicated that WY14643 and long chain fatty acids induce CPT-1A gene expression through this element. In addition, we found that mutation of the PPARα binding site reduced the expression of CPT-1A-luciferase vectors in the liver of fasted rats. We had demonstrated previously that CPT-1A was stimulated by the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma coactivator (PGC-1α) via sequences in the first intron of the rat CPT-1A gene. Surprisingly, PGC-1α did not enhance CPT-1A transcription through the PPARα binding site in the second intron. Following knockdown of PGC-1α with short hairpin RNA, the CPT-1A and PDK4 genes remained responsive to WY14643. Overall, our studies indicated that PPARα and PGC-1α stimulate transcription of the CPT-1A gene through different regions of the CPT-1A gene.
The Lens Galaxy in PG 1115+080 is an Ellipse*

We use the structure of the Einstein ring image of the quasar host galaxy in the four-image quasar lens PG 1115+080 to determine the angular structure of the gravitational potential of the lens galaxy. We find that it is well described as an ellipsoid and that the best-fit nonellipsoidal models are consistent with the ellipsoidal model. We find upper limits on the standard parameters for the deviation from an ellipse of |a/a0| < 0.035 and |a/a0| < 0.064. We also find that the position of the center of mass is consistent with the center of light, with an upper limit of |Δ| < 0005 on the offset between them. Neither the ellipsoidal nor the nonellipsoidal models can reproduce the observed image flux ratios while simultaneously maintaining a reasonable fit to the Einstein ring, so the anomalous flux ratio of the A1 and A2 quasar images must be due to substructure in the gravitational potential such as compact satellite galaxies or stellar microlenses rather than odd angular structure in the lens galaxy.
ON THE HARDNESS OF THE BORDER LENGTH MINIMIZATION PROBLEM ON A RECTANGULAR ARRAY

DNA microarray technology has proven to be an invaluable tool for molecular biologists. Microarrays are used extensively in SNP detection, genomic hybridization, alternative splicing and gene expression profiling. However the manufacturers of the microarrays are often stuck with the problem of minimizing the effects of unwanted illumination (border length minimization (BLM)) which is a hard combinatorial problem. In this paper we prove that the BLM problem on a rectangular grid is NP-hard – this however does not mean the BLM problem on a square grid is NP-hard. We also give the first integer linear programming (ILP) formulation to solve BLM problem optimally. Experimental results indicate that our ILP method produces superior results (both in runtime and cost) compared to the current state of the art algorithms to solve the BLM problem optimally.
STOKES DRAG AND LUBRICATION FLOWS : A MOLECULAR DYNAMICS STUDY

We have studied the translational and rotational motion of a sphere in a viscous Lennard-Jones liquid using molecular dynamics simulations. The drag and torque on a sphere in an effectively unbounded fluid are found to agree with continuum hydrodynamics results even when the size of the sphere is comparable to that of the fluid molecules. The diffusivity of a spherical tracer particle is in accord with the Stokes-Einstein relation, and the corresponding Brownian motion is determined by its interaction with the layers formed by fluid molecules around it. When a sphere moves near a solid wall, we find that the drag and torque agree with lubrication theory down to molecular scales, but the predicted divergence is regularized at very short distances due to depletion of fluid molecules near the wall and the appearance of slip at high shear stress.
Effect of complexing ligands on the surface adsorption, internalization, and bioresponse of copper and cadmium in a soil bacterium, Pseudomonas putida

Environmental quality criteria for metals toxic to soil and water organisms, using the free ion activity model or the biotic ligand model, are based on the concept that the major form of the metal available to the organism is the free metal ion, yet various metal complexes are bioavailable to a variety of soil and water organisms. We test here whether neutral copper or cadmium sulfates, negatively-charged copper or cadmium citrates and positively-charged copper acetate and cadmium chloride are bioavailable to a soil bacterium, Pseudomonas putida. Adsorption onto the cell surface and uptake into the periplasm and cytoplasm of this Gram-negative root colonizing bacterium was studied by adding a single concentration of Cu or Cd and varying the concentration of the ligands to complex 10–100% of the metal. Metal association from the complexes on and within the cell was defined using selective extraction procedures and compared with free ion controls using the Langmuir isotherm. Cellular responses also were assessed using a P. putida biosensor. Both uptake and bioresponse methodologies showed that P. putida was sensitive to the metal complexes. In particular, the bioresponse to Cu and Cd supplied as a citrate complex occurred with activities of free metal ions two orders of magnitude lower than for the control. We concluded that the tested metal complexes for Cu and Cd are taken up into the cell, where they trigger a bioresponse. We also discuss the implications of these findings on interactions between soil and water organisms and nanoparticles that release metal ions.
Grain structure and microtexture evolution during superplastic forming of a high strength AlZnMgCu alloy

Grain structure and microstructure evolution during superplastic forming were studied on an unrecrystallized sheet of a modified 7050 superplastic alloy. A SEM-based local orientation technique was used to cover a large number of (sub)grain boundaries in combination with other metallographic techniques. The gradual boundary misorientation and microtexture evolution during superplastic forming (SPF) confirmed that a continuous evolutionary process was occurring. There was no evidence of dynamic recrystallization at the stress maximum. The fraction of high angle boundaries increased rapidly once the mean misorientation reached a critical value. These and other results suggest that both grain boundary sliding (GBS) and dislocation slip were operative initially until the stress maximum was approached, beyond which GBS was predominant. The results of quantitative orientation distribution function (ODF) analyses suggest that grain rotation, which resulted in texture randomization, became important from slightly beyond the stress maximum through most of the stress-strain curve.
Two-column system for determination of glucosamine, galactosamine, and amino acids on a Beckman 121MB amino acid analyzer: separation of the anomers of glucosamine and galactosamine.

Abstract A procedure is described for the determination of glucosamine, galactosamine, and the common amino acids in glycoproteins by the use of a Beckman 121MB amino acid analyzer. The procedure employs Beckman AA10 ion exchange resin in a two-column system. Separation of the hexosamines and their anomers along with the basic amino acids on a short column and of the acidic and neutral amino acids on a long column is achieved. The use of the two-column system permits quantitation of the hexosamines and amino acids in the 100–1000 pmol range, corresponding to 2–20 μg of glycoprotein analyzed. The separation of the α and β anomers of the hexosamines is critically dependent on pH. Galactosamine yields two peaks at pH 6.20 and glucosamine one, and glucosamine yields two peaks at pH 6.74 and galactosamine one. Separation of the anomers improves at lower temperatures (25 versus 40°C) but is relatively insensitive to ionic strength (0.1 to 0.4 n in sodium).
Targeting LFA-1 Synergizes with CD40/CD40L Blockade for Suppression of Both CD4-Dependent and CD8-Dependent Rejection

Allogeneic hepatocytes elicit CD4-dependent and (CD4-independent) CD8+ T-cell-initiated graft rejection. The (CD4-independent) CD8+ T-cell pathway is resistant to immunosuppressive strategies that readily and indefinitely suppress CD4+ T-cell-dependent rejection responses. Consequently, successful immunoregulation of hepatocyte-initiated immune responses requires a strategy which regulates both CD4-dependent and CD8-dependent rejection responses. Interference with CD40/CD40 ligand (CD40L) costimulation only transiently suppresses CD4- and CD8-dependent hepatocyte rejection. Interference with CD28/B7 costimulation transiently suppresses CD4-dependent hepatocyte rejection, but is ineffective for suppression of CD8-dependent hepatocyte rejection. To date, hepatocyte survival > 60 days post-transplant has not been achieved by any immunotherapeutic strategy. In the current study, we evaluated a novel immunosuppressive strategy which targets both LFA-1 and CD40L-mediated signals. Targeting LFA-1 suppressed (CD4-independent) CD8+ T-cell-initiated hepatocyte rejection such that allogeneic hepatocyte survival > 60 days was achieved in 70% of CD4 KO mice. Targeting both LFA-1-mediated signals and CD40/CD40L costimulation resulted in synergistic effects, such that hepatocellular survival > 60 days was achieved in 100% of C57BL/6 mice (which have both CD4- and CD8-dependent T-cell pathways available).