cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Radial Basis Function Kernel on OpenCL FPGA Platform

Field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) are becoming a promising heterogeneous computing component for scientific computing when floating-point optimized architectures are added to the current FPGAs. The emerging high-level synthesis (HLS) tools provide a streamlined design flow to facilitate the use of FPGAs for researchers who have little FPGA development experience. In this paper, we choose the kernel, Radial Basis Function, in a support vector machine as a case study to evaluate the potential of implementing machine learning kernels on FPGAs, and the capabilities of an HLS tool to convert a kernel written in high-level language to an FPGA implementation. We explain the HLS flow and the RBF kernel. We evaluate the kernel in an OpenCL-to-FPGA HLS flow, and describe the optimizations of the kernel. Our optimizations using kernel vectorization and loop unrolling improve the kernel performance by a factor of 15.8 compared to a baseline kernel on the Nallatech 385A FPGA card that features an Intel Arria 10 GX 1150 FPGA. In terms of energy efficiency, the performance per watt on the FPGA platform is 2.8X higher than that on an Intel Xeon 16-core CPU, and 1.7X higher than that on an Nvidia Tesla K80 GPU. On the other hand, the performance per watt on an Intel Xeon Phi Knights Landing CPU and an Nvidia Tesla P100 GPU are 5.3X and 1.7X higher than that on the FPGA, respectively.
Zero-forcing Precoder: A Special Constructive Interference Precoder for PSK Signals

Recently, constructive interference precoders have been considered for downlink communication systems to utilize the multiuser interference constructively. Such precoders are normally obtained by solving constrained optimization problems at each symbol period. We demonstrate that there exists an analytic solution to a constructive interference precoder under the constraint of QoS for phase-shift keying (PSK) symbols. In this case, the computational cost is saved for the precoder design without solving the optimization problem.
On the Impossibility and Inevitability of Monsters in Biblical Thought

After general considerations of what constitutes a “monster,” this essay examines the examples of “monsters” in the Bible, showing that the Bible does not as frequently depict such beings as do oth...
Multiscale interaction of inertial particles with turbulent motions in open channel flow

A spatial filtering strategy is used to investigate inertial particles interacting with certain features of wall turbulent flow, thus isolating large-scale motions (LSMs) and very large-scale motions (VLSMs). In the one-way coupled limit, low-inertia particle transport is dictated both by LSMs and VLSMs, while high-inertia particles are more influenced by VLSMs. In the two-way coupled limit, particle-flow interaction is dictated by interactions with LSMs. However, the effects of VLSMs still cannot be ignored.
Likelihood ratio testing in linear state space models: An application to dynamic stochastic general equilibrium models

Abstract This paper considers the problem of hypothesis testing in linear Gaussian state space models. We consider two hypotheses of interest: a simple null and a hypothesis of explicit parameter restrictions. We derive the asymptotic distributions of the corresponding likelihood ratio test statistics and compute the Bartlett adjustments. The results are non-trivial because the unrestricted state space model is not (even locally) identified. We apply our analysis to test the validity of the Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) models. A Monte Carlo exercise illustrates our findings and confirms the importance of Bartlett corrections at sample sizes typically encountered in macroeconomics.
Use of dual lumen ports for red blood cell exchange: A comparison of adults and children with sickle cell disease

PURPOSE Sickle cell patients receiving chronic RBC exchange require a form of long-term central venous access if peripheral access is inadequate. In adults, dual lumen (DL) ports have been utilized but associated with greater procedure complications and duration when compared to other forms of access. In the pediatric sickle cell population, the use of DL ports for RBC exchange has not been well described. In this retrospective cohort study, RBC exchange procedures utilizing DL ports in the pediatric vs adult sickle cell population were compared. METHODS Medical records were reviewed for 685 RBC exchange procedures performed on 25 patients (11 pediatric and 14 adult) between November 2014 to November 2018. Patient-level characteristics and outcomes were compared between pediatric and adult patients using the Fisher-exact and Wilcoxon-rank sum test. Linear/logistic regression models examined procedure-level parameters and port characteristics with adjustment for clustering. RESULTS Compared to adults, pediatric patients had slower average maximum inlet speed (42 vs 53 mL/min, P < .01), but shorter procedure time (60 vs 75 minutes, P < .01) and lower rate of access alarms (1% vs 11%, P < .01). Overall, 0.29 thrombotic events per 1000 port days and 0.04 infections per 1000 port days were observed. CONCLUSION For adult and pediatric sickle cell patients, a DL port provides a viable option for RBC exchange. In comparison to adults, pediatric procedures with a DL port will typically be shorter and with less procedural complications due to smaller blood volumes and lower flow requirements.
Species-Specific Immunoassay Aids Identification of Pathogen and Tracks Infectivity in Foot Infection.

Background:Conventional bacterial cultures frequently fail to identify the dominant pathogen in polymicrobial foot infections, in which Staphylococcus aureus is the most common infecting pathogen. ...
GENOME REPORT: High-quality genome assemblies of 15 Drosophila species generated using Nanopore sequencing

ABSTRACT The Drosophila genus is a unique group containing a wide range of species that occupy diverse ecosystems. In addition to the most widely studied species, Drosophila melanogaster , many other members in this genus also possess a well-developed set of genetic tools. Indeed, high-quality genomes exist for several species within the genus, facilitating studies of the function and evolution of cis-regulatory regions and proteins by allowing comparisons across at least 50 million years of evolution. Yet, the available genomes still fail to capture much of the substantial genetic diversity within the Drosophila genus. We have therefore tested protocols to rapidly and inexpensively sequence and assemble the genome from any Drosophila species using single-molecule sequencing technology from Oxford Nanopore. Here, we use this technology to present high-quality genome assemblies of 15 Drosophila species: 10 of the 12 originally sequenced Drosophila species ( ananassae, erecta, mojavensis, persimilis, pseudoobscura, sechellia, simulans, virilis, willistoni , and yakuba ), four additional species that had previously reported assemblies ( biarmipes, bipectinata, eugracilis , and mauritiana ), and one novel assembly ( triauraria ). Genomes were generated from an average of 29x depth-of-coverage data that after assembly resulted in an average contig N50 of 4.4 Mb. Subsequent alignment of contigs from the published reference genomes demonstrates that our assemblies could be used to close over 60% of the gaps present in the currently published reference genomes. Importantly, the materials and reagents cost for each genome was approximately $1,000 (USD). This study demonstrates the power and cost-effectiveness of long-read sequencing for genome assembly in Drosophila and provides a framework for the affordable sequencing and assembly of additional Drosophila genomes.
Barriers to Optimal End-of-Life Care for Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer: Bereaved Caregiver Perspectives.

Background Adolescents and young adults (AYAs; aged 15-39 years) with cancer frequently receive intensive measures at the end of life (EoL), but the perspectives of AYAs and their family members on barriers to optimal EoL care are not well understood. Methods We conducted qualitative interviews with 28 bereaved caregivers of AYAs with cancer who died in 2013 through 2016 after receiving treatment at 1 of 3 sites (University of Alabama at Birmingham, University of Iowa, or University of California San Diego). Interviews focused on ways that EoL care could have better met the needs of the AYAs. Content analysis was performed to identify relevant themes. Results Most participating caregivers were White and female, and nearly half had graduated from college. A total of 46% of AYAs were insured by Medicaid or other public insurance; 61% used hospice, 46% used palliative care, and 43% died at home. Caregivers noted 3 main barriers to optimal EoL care: (1) delayed or absent communication about prognosis, which in turn delayed care focused on comfort and quality of life; (2) inadequate emotional support of AYAs and caregivers, many of whom experienced distress and difficulty accepting the poor prognosis; and (3) a lack of home care models that would allow concurrent life-prolonging and palliative therapies, and consequently suboptimal supported goals of AYAs to live as long and as well as possible. Delayed or absent prognosis communication created lingering regret among some family caregivers, who lost the opportunity to support, comfort, and hold meaningful conversations with their loved ones. Conclusions Bereaved family caregivers of AYAs with cancer noted a need for timely prognostic communication, emotional support to enhance acceptance of a poor prognosis, and care delivery models that would support both life-prolonging and palliative goals of care. Work to address these challenges offers the potential to improve the quality of EoL care for young people with cancer.
On the admissibility of spherical spatial covariance functions in higher dimensions

Abstract A mean zero spatial process X ( t ) on the n -dimensional Euclidean space R n is isotropic if its covariance function (c.f.) is of the form: R n ( τ ) = Cov [ X ( t ) , X ( s ) ] , where τ = | t − s | , t , s ∈ R n , and R n is an admissible function on R 1 . An isotropic spatial process X has a bounded range of dependence if sup { τ : R n ( τ ) ≠ 0 } ∞ . Here we consider a class of isotropic c.f.’s R n ( τ ) , n = 1 , 2 , … with bounded ranges of dependence, among which there are R 1 , the classical triangular c.f. on the real line ( n = 1 ), and R 3 , the spherical c.f. in dimension three ( n = 3 ). For each dimension n ≥ 1 , the admissibility of R n ( τ ) as a c.f. in higher dimensions is studied. While it is well known that for each n ≥ 1 , R n is a legitimate c.f. on R m for all m ≤ n but it is shown that the considered R n is not a legitimate c.f. on R m when m > n . Thus the spherical c.f. R 3 cannot be a c.f. on R n when n > 3 . The issue of recognition of an isotropic c.f. on R n is discussed, and simple procedures of constructing isotropic c.f.’s on R n for every n ≥ 1 are given. This article serves as one more reminder that caution must be taken concerning the legitimacy of a selected c.f. in the corresponding spatial dimensions.
Hybrid stenting of the arterial duct with carotid cutdown and flip technique: immediate and early results.

Stenting of the arterial duct (PDA) has become a standard palliation for ductal-dependent pulmonary circulation. Carotid arterial access provides a direct route for stenting vertical ducts. We evaluated our early results of hybrid ductal stenting via surgical carotid cutdown. METHODS AND RESULTS In this retrospective single centre cohort study, hybrid PDA stenting was attempted in 11 patients with "flip technique", between January 2020 and February 2021, and was successful in 10. Median age was 29 days (interquartile range 17.5-87) and mean weight 3.37 ± 1.23 kg. Mean fluoroscopy time was 13.58 ± 5.35 minutes, mean procedure time was 48.50 ± 22.5 minutes, and mean radiation dose was 1719.5 ± 1217.6 mGycm2. Mean time for cutdown was 9.9 ± 2.4 minutes and for haemostasis and suturing was 25.3 ± 11.0 minutes. Median duration of ventilation post-stenting was 26 hours (interquartile range 21-43.75). The median ICU stay post-procedure was 5 days (interquartile range 4-7.25) and mean hospital stay was 12 ± 6.3 days. On early follow-up, carotid patency was confirmed in all patients with colour Doppler, with no intravascular thrombi, narrowing, haematomas, or aneurysms noted. There were no complications secondary to vascular access. There was one early mortality, 27 days post-stenting, which was unrelated to the procedure. CONCLUSION This study adds to the limited literature on ductal stenting with carotid access and the flip technique. In our early experience, the hybrid carotid approach is an attractive alternative to percutaneous carotid puncture and has simplified a complex and challenging intervention, with good outcomes.
De Facto Populations and Populations Impacted by Disasters

This chapter deals with three separate estimation topics related by the fact that they are not readily accessible from census data, which in the US and the other countries to which this book is addressed (e.g., Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, England, Ireland, Mexico, and the United States) is based on the concept of a De Jure population. The first issue is that of a de Facto population, which is the concept of people enumerated, estimated, or forecasted where they are found rather than where they usually reside. The second is that of the homeless population and the third, a population impacted by a disaster. For both the homeless and those impacted by a disaster, the underlying concept is that of a De Jure population, but in the case of both, the methods for estimating De Jure populations are rendered virtually useless (Rummel, 1991; Smith and McCarty, 1996; Swanson, 2008; US Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2008). This situation calls into play at least some of the methods for estimating De Facto populations, hence the reason for covering both in this chapter. In addition, having estimates of the De Facto population can play an important role in the plans for coping with disasters.
Pushing the Performance Envelope of Modular Exponentiation Across Multiple Generations of GPUs

Multiprocessing modular exponentiation is a key operation in popular encryption schemes such as RSA, but is computationally expensive. Contexts such as handling many secure web connections in a server can demand higher rates of exponent operations than a traditional multicourse can support. Graphics processors offer an opportunity to accelerate batches of exponent calculations both by executing them in parallel as well as through parallelizing the operations within the multiprocessing arithmetic itself. However, obtaining performance close to the theoretical peak can be extremely challenging. Furthermore, each new generation of GPU architecture can require a substantially different approach to achieve maximum performance. In this paper we show how we improve modular exponentiation performance over prior results by at factors ranging from 2.6 to 24, across generations of NVIDIA GPU, from compute capability 1.1 onward. Of particular interest is the parameter space that must be searched to find the optimal configuration of memory layout, launch geometry, and algorithm for each architecture at different problem sizes. Our efforts have resulted in a set of tools for generating library functions in the PTX assembly language and searching to find these optima. From our experience it can be argued that a new programming paradigm is needed to achieve full performance potential on core library components as GPUs evolve through multiple generations.
Total Photoabsorption Cross Sections on Hydrogen and Complex Nuclei at Energies up to 18 GeV

Total cross sections for the photoproduction of hadrons from hydrogen, deuterium, carbon, copper, and lead have been measured at SLAC at energies up to 18.3 GeV. These measurements yield fundamental information about the nature of photon interactions.
Cone ratios cannot discriminate between reflectance and illuminant borders

Invariance of cone ratios has been proposed to be a possible basis for perceptual color constancy. Cone excitation ratios were computed across reflectance edges viewed under different illuminants as well as across illuminant edges. The results of the authors' computations suggest that such a mechanism is incomplete. Cone ratios maintain color constancy across reflectance edges under a variety of illuminants, yet they are unable to discern whether a border is a reflectance edge or an illuminant edge.
Investigation of critical factors for the resolution of SR695, a key impurity, from efavirenz in the reversed-phase assay of efavirenz dosage forms.

Abstract An investigation of the critical factors effecting the resolution of SR695 from efavirenz in the assay of efavirenz by reversed-phase HPLC was performed. This study was implemented to address the inability of a subset of the Zorbax SB-CN columns used in this method to adequately perform this separation, which were otherwise indistinguishable from columns of this type that could. In this study, column temperature, detector time-constant, pre-gradient isocratic hold-time, pre-column mixing volume, column, and HPLC type were considered. Experimental Design methods were employed to find the relative importance of these factors and to find parameters that would optimize the resolution of SR695 and efavirenz on any HPLC, with any column of this type, for both efavirenz oral liquid and capsule samples. It was also desired that this method change be minimal, so that extensive revalidation would not be required. The most important factors were the column temperature, with lower temperatures giving better resolution, and pre-column mixing volume of sample with mobile phase, with higher mixing volumes giving better resolution up to an asymptote reached at around 150 μl. Added pre-gradient isocratic hold time was found to result in a small improvement in resolution, but was insignificant compared with the other factors mentioned above. A possible explanation is given for the mechanism by which temperature and pre-column mixing have this effect on the resolution obtained in this assay.
Programmability and service creation for multimedia networks

The Binding Architecture is an open architecture for building multimedia networks that must guarantee quality of service (QOS). We explore the notion of a service in the Binding Architecture and propose a conceptual model for building scalable multimedia distribution services based on it. We begin first by examining the relation between resources, their abstractions and the services that can be built from them and use this to derive a general model for binding. Based on this model, we identify a general set of capabilities required for building any multimedia distribution service. We also describe how these capabilities can be incorporated into our view of the service creation process. Finally, we augment our discussion with the description of an example service which we have developed using this paradigm.
Circular Permutation in Proteins

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. The RCSB PDB is managed by two members of the RCSB: Rutgers and UCSD, and is funded by National Science Foundation (NSF), National Institute of General Medical Sciences, Department of Energy (DOE), National Library of Medicine, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The RCSB PDB is a member of the wwPDB. This work was supported by the RCSB PDB grant NSF DBI 0829586. The funders had no role in the preparation of the manuscript.
Phorbol esters increase adenylate cyclase activity and stability in pituitary membranes.

Abstract In this report, we demonstrate that calcium and phorbol esters enhance cAMP production in GH4C1 cell homogenates. The mechanism for this is a reduction in the rate of decay of adenylate cyclase activity over the course of the assay. Purified protein kinase C can reconstitute calcium-and phorbol ester-dependent adenylate cyclase. Phorbol ester-activated protein kinase C increases both the initial rate of cAMP synthesis and reduces the time-dependent decay of adenylate cyclase activity in membrane preparations. The rate of cAMP production is fit to an equation derived from a model which assumes that adenylate cyclase initially exists in a high activity state which decays exponentially into a low activity state. We suggest that protein kinase C can both prevent the decay of the high activity state and convert the low activity state into the activity state.
Buckling, wrinkling and debonding in thin film systems

Thin films bonded to substrates commonly occur in semiconductor dielectric stacks. In these systems, many times, the mismatch in the coefficient of thermal expansion between the films and the substrate result in significant compressive stresses during processing. These compressive stresses may lead to instabilities such as buckling or wrinkling, possibly resulting in debonding of the films. In general, at the present time, the mechanics of buckling and wrinkling leading to debonding in thin film systems are not well understood. A further significant challenge to modeling these systems is that the conditions under which the instabilities occur depend on possible plastic deformation in metal films (in turn dictated by processing temperatures) as well as the presence of geometric features such as vias in the film stack. In this paper, we review analytical derivations of conditions under which buckling and wrinkling induced debond occur in thin film systems. We describe the film interface and (where appropriate) the compliant substrate using a bi-linear Cohesive-Zone fracture model. We utilize the developed theory to estimate interfacial fracture toughness of weakly bonded thin film systems through a newly proposed non-contact, thermally driven, patterned buckling delamination test. The proposed test does not need a weakened region of the interface to initiate crack, nor does it require mechanical loading; it relies on inducing a compressive stress due to heating of the film on a thick silicon substrate. The test is demonstrated on a model system consisting of Al/Su-8/Si stack. Finally, we review wrinkling of thin film systems, and analyze the impact of pattern features on the propensity of thin films to wrinkle sooner than predicted for blanket films.
Strandedness of DNA at 92% relative humidity

The existing X-ray diffraction data of DNA at 92% relative humidity are different from those obtained from the B form at 66% relative humidity. Though the intensity spots are less well defined in the former, they can nevertheless be fitted with a four stranded helical model.
Juan Luis Vives: A Study in Renaissance Theories in Methodology in Foreign Language Instruction

Author's Summary— Vives (1492–1540), humanist and Renaissance educationalist, advocated innovations in language teaching, some of which have been incorporated in educational methodology. Others, neglected until now, may be reviewed with profit and possibly revaluated.
Minimization approach to membership evaluation in fuzzy sets and error analysis

Evaluation of the degree of membership in fuzzy sets is a fundamental topic in fuzzy set theory. Saaty (Ref. 1) proposes a method for solving this problem that has been widely accepted. In this paper, we examine the problem from an error minimization point of view that attempts to reflect the real intentions of the decision maker. When this approach is used, the findings reveal that fuzzy sets of different cardinalities have dramatically different requirements in the consistency level of the input data as far as the error minimization criterion is concerned.
DNA Adduct of the Mitomycin C Metabolite 2,7-Diaminomitosene Is a Nontoxic and Nonmutagenic DNA Lesion in Vitro and in Vivo

Mitomycin C (MC) is a cytotoxic and mutagenic antitumor agent that alkylates and cross-links DNA. These effects are dependent on reductive bioactivation of MC. 2,7-Diaminomitosene (2,7-DAM) is the major metabolite of MC in tumor cells, generated by the reduction of MC. 2,7-DAM alkylates DNA in the cell in situ, forming an adduct at the N7 position of 2'-deoxyguanosine (2,7-DAM-dG-N7). To determine the biological effects of this adduct, we have synthesized an oligonucleotide containing a single 2,7-DAM-dG-N7 adduct and inserted it into an M13 bacteriophage genome. Replication of this construct in repair-competent Escherichia coli showed that the adduct was only weakly toxic and generated approximately 50% progeny as compared to control. No mutant was isolated after analysis of more than 4000 progeny phages from SOS-induced or uninduced host cells; therefore, we estimate that the mutation frequency of 2,7-DAM-dG-N7 was less than 2 x 10(-4) in E. coli. Subsequently, to determine if this adduct might be mutagenic in mammalian cells, it was incorporated into a single-stranded shuttle phagemid vector, pMS2, and replicated in simian kidney (COS-7) cells. Analysis of the progeny showed that mutational frequency of a site specific 2,7-DAM-dG-N7 was not higher than the spontaneous mutation frequency in simian kidney cells. In parallel experiments in cell free systems, template oligonucleotides containing a single 2,7-DAM-dG-N7 adduct directed selective incorporation of cytosine in the 5'-32P-labeled primer strands opposite the adducted guanine, catalyzed by Klenow (exo-) DNA polymerase. The adducted templates also supported full extension of primer strands by Klenow (exo-) and T7 (exo-) DNA polymerases and partial extension by DNA polymerase eta. The innocuous behavior of the 2,7-DAM-dG-N7 monoadduct in vivo and in vitro is in sharp contrast to that of the toxic MC-dG-N2 monoadduct reported earlier.
Latino representation on congressional websites

Do Latino representatives enhance or “enlarge” Latino representation (Walsh 2002)? I examined the content of websites posted by members of the 110th Congress and found that the websites of Latino representatives are not more accessible to Spanish-speaking users than the websites of non-Latino representatives, nor are the sites more likely to exhibit pro-immigrant positions or offer immigration assistance. The websites of Latino representatives are, however, more likely to present Latino perspectives. Latino representatives enhance Latino representation in this forum by enlarging or broadening the presence of a Latino voice in policy discussion.
Optical flow switching: An end-to-end “UltraFlow” architecture

We describe the design of an optical network architecture that will satisfy dramatic increases in data rate demands of emerging applications. Optical flow switching (OFS), will enable significant rate growth of > 103, with power-efficiency and cost-effective scalability of next-generation networks. We will describe architecture concepts germinated 24 years ago, technology and testbed demonstrations performed in the last 19 years, and the architecture construct from the Physical Layer to the Transport Layer of an implementable optical flow switching network that is scalable and manageable. Recent architecture for an NSF-funded Internet Research Program “UltraFlow”, for which OFS can be used, will be described.
A Lebesgue-like measure for inverse limit spaces of piecewise strictly monotone maps of an interval

Abstract In this paper we construct a measure for inverse limit spaces of piecewise monotone interval maps. The measure is constructed so as to give equal weights to the preimages of a point under the bonding map. Then we study metric attractors for the inverse limit under this measure.
Extending Molecular Lines on the Si(100)-2 × 1 Surface: A Theoretical Study of the Effect of Allylic Mercaptan Adsorbates on Radical Chain Reactions

The reaction mechanism for the adsorption and growth of allylic mercaptan (ALM) at a defect site on the Si(100)-2 × 1 surface has recently been proposed. The adsorbate structure is believed to be a branched or linear ALM molecule forming a bridge across silicon dimer rows on the Si(100)-2 × 1 surface. Subsequent reactions at the radical site formed by an ALM adsorbate have not been studied previously. We have now calculated the reactivity of ALM, acetone, and styrene at radical sites formed by an ALM adsorbate. The reactivity of ALM and acetone is unaffected by adjacent ALM adsorbates. The same is true for styrene reacting adjacent to a linear ALM adsorbate. A branched adsorbate significantly destabilizes a styrene adsorbate, making styrene more likely to desorb than to react further. The origin of this destabilization is the partially broken silicon dimer bond. These results are consistent with available experimental observations and support the proposal of a branched ALM adsorbate bridging dimer rows.
Food sources of added sweeteners in the diets of Americans.

Abstract Objective To identify food sources of added sweeteners in the US diet. Design A descriptive study using data from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) 1994-1996 Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals. Each subject provided one 24-hour dietary recall. Intake of added sweeteners was calculated using the USDA Food Guide Pyramid servings database. Subjects/setting A national sample of noninstitutionalized persons aged 2 years and older (N=15,010). Statistical analyses Mean intakes of added sweeteners from all food sources and from specific food categories; percentage contribution of added sweeteners to total energy intake; and percentage contribution of each food category to total intake of added sweeteners. All analyses were conducted for the total sample and for 12 age-gender groups. Results During 1994 to 1996, Americans aged 2 years and older consumed the equivalent of 82 g carbohydrate per day from added sweeteners, which accounted for 16% of total energy intake. In absolute terms, adolescent males consumed the most; as a percentage of energy, male and female adolescents had the highest intakes (averaging 20% of total energy from added sweeteners). The largest source of added sweeteners was regular soft drinks, which accounted for one third of intake. Other sources were table sugars, syrups, and sweets; sweetened grains; regular fruitades/drinks; and milk products. Applications/conclusions Intakes of added sweeteners exceed levels compatible with meeting current dietary recommendations. Knowing food sources of added sweeteners for the overall population and for specific age-gender groups can help dietitians provide appropriate nutrition education. JAm Diet Assoc. 2000;100:43-48,51.
Some simple chaotic flows.

A systematic examination of general three-dimensional autonomous ordinary differential equations with quadratic nonlinearities has uncovered 19 distinct simple examples of chaotic flows with either five terms and two nonlinearities or six terms and one nonlinearity. The properties of these systems are described, including their critical points, Lyapunov exponents, and fractal dimensions.
New high‐resolution record of middle to late Miocene climate evolution

After the fairly warm Miocene climate optimum about 17–15 million years ago, Earth's climate began to cool. Holbourn et al. present a new high-resolution record of climate evolution over the middle to late Miocene, from 12.9 to 8.4 million years ago, based on stable isotopes in sedimentary benthic foraminifera in the western Pacific Ocean. They also combined their data with previously published data going back to 16 million years ago from the same location to study the transition from a warmer climate to a cooler one. They focus on the relationship between climate and changes in the eccentricity and obliquity of Earth's orbit around the Sun.
SKELETAL MUSCLE GROUP VIA PHOSPHOLIPASE A2 (iPLA2β): EXPRESSION AND ROLE IN FATTY ACID OXIDATION †

Phospholipases A2 (PLA2) are a diverse group of enzymes that catalyze hydrolysis of the sn-2 substituent from glycerophospholipid substrates to yield a free fatty acid and a 2-lyso-phospholipid (1). At present, the recognized PLA2s are classified into 15 different groups that include the low MW secretory PLA2s and the higher MW Ca2+-dependent and Ca2+-independent PLA2s (2). Among the PLA2s is an 84 kDa cytosolic PLA2 that does not require Ca2+ for catalysis, is activated by ATP and inhibited by BEL, and is classified as Group VIA PLA2, designated iPLA2β (3–5). Inhibition of iPLA2β has been reported to suppress incorporation of arachidonic acid into membrane phospholipids of macrophage-like P388D1 cells (6, 7) leading to the suggestion that iPLA2β participates in phospholipid remodeling (8, 9). Findings in other cells, however, suggest that iPLA2β is involved in signal transduction (10–16). The group VIA Ca2+-independent phospholipase A2 (iPLA2β) has been cloned from several sources and is encoded by mRNA species that yield proteins (expected molecular masses of 80–88 kDa) that contain a phospholipase motif preceded by eight ankyrin repeats in the N-terminal half of the molecule (17–19). An 88 kDa iPLA2β isoform is a product of a mRNA species that arises from an exon-skipping mechanism of alternate splicing and contains a 54 amino acid insert that interrupts the eighth ankyrin repeat (20, 21). Proteolytic processing of iPLA2β also yields truncated protein products that are constitutively active. These products arise from caspase-3-catalyzed cleavage of iPLA2β in human promonocytic U937 cells (22) and β-cells (23), and calmodulin-dependent cleavage of iPLA2β under in vitro conditions (24). Further, pancreatic islets predominantly express a catalytically active 70 kDa iPLA2β variant that is not a product of alternate splicing (25). Multiple reports suggest that muscle tissue expresses more than one iPLA2 transcript. In one of the first such survey studies, Tang et al. (19) observed an iPLA2 transcript at 3 kb in Northern analyses of a mouse and rat multiple tissue blot. Subsequently, human skeletal muscle was shown to express four iPLA2 transcripts of 1.8, 2.0, 3.2, and 4.2 kb (20). The membrane-associated iPLA2γ in heart and skeletal muscle are thought to be products of an iPLA2 transcript of 3.4 kb (5, 26). Recently, we observed expression of two iPLA2 transcripts of 3.0 and 3.2 kb in several mouse tissues including skeletal muscle and pancreatic islets (27). We have previously demonstrated that iPLA2β is expressed in the β-cell but not in the non-β-cell population of islets (28). To determine if the iPLA2 expressed in skeletal muscle was analogous to that expressed in β-cells we examined the chromatographic profile and catalytic properties of skeletal muscle iPLA2. Here, we report that skeletal muscle expresses the iPLA2β isoform that manifests phospholipase and acyl-CoA thioesterase activity and participates in fatty acid oxidation.
Steady-state versus transient measurement of effective diffusivities in porous media using the diffusion-cell method

Abstract The relation between the effective diffusivities of gases obtained from transient and steady-state mass transport experiments using the diffusion-cell method is investigated in this study. A simple structure of parallel pores, of some pore-size distribution, is used to represent the porous medium, and, in order to investigate the effects of pore interaction on the problem, the pores are assumed to communicate with each other at a number of equidistant points between the two ends of the porous slab. It is shown that matching the zero and first moments of the experimental (inhomogeneous model) response of the diffusion cell with the corresponding moments of the response of the homogeneous model yields the same effective diffusion coefficient as steady-state diffusion-cell experiments. Time-domain parameter estimation schemes tend to produce larger, in general, effective diffusivities, but the difference between the time-domain responses of the homogeneous and inhomogeneous model, with the same first two moments, decreases sharply if the pores are allowed to interact in the interior of the porous pellet.
A simple and effective autoclave method of handpiece and instrument sterilization without corrosion

Although autoclaving is a rapid, effective method of sterilization, the resulting corrosion of certain dental instruments during the autoclave cycle has contra-indicated its routine use for all equipment. An oil-in-water emulsion containing sodium benzoate has been developed for precoating instruments prior to autoclaving so as to prevent corrosion. The procedure has been found to be practical, effective and efficient.
Immunomodulating effects of serum-material interactions.

The objective of this study is to evaluate an in vitro model to assess the effects of serum-material interactions on complement activation, macromolecular adsorption, and lymphocyte response. Minifilters of clinically available materials (PVA, EVAL-4A, and EVAL-D) used in extracorporeal therapies were evaluated. The test circuit consisted of a pump, sterile tubing, collection vessels, and the minifilter. A sham circuit similar to the test circuit was constructed, but without the filter. Serum flow rates and volumes processed were scaled down to those of clinical use. Post PVA serum showed the highest degree of complement activation, macromolecular solute adsorption, and lymphocyte suppressive response when incubated with Con-A, PHA, PWM, and Candida. Post EVAL-4A sera enhanced the response of lymphocytes to Con-A and PHA, while Post EVAL-D sera showed a slight suppression to these mitogens. Blood-material interactions have been shown to cause blood cellular changes. The in vitro model employed is simple to apply and does not require an animal or patient. The membrane modules used are a mini-type of clinically available extracorporeal filters, and there is a greater direct relevancy to clinical applications than there would be using specially formulated materials. This system would provide useful preclinical information in evaluating the effects of serum-material interactions.
Emission source for compatibility testing of wireless networks in the below-deck environment on ships

Wireless communications technology is being deployed in Navy ships and submarines. Prior to installing wireless systems, shipboard testing must be conducted to verify electromagnetic compatibility in the below-deck environment between the wireless system and sensitive onboard electronics. An electromagnetic environment (EME) generator is being developed that can be used for conducting compatibility testing from 900MHz to 18GHz in a single test, eliminating the need for expensive individual compatibility tests for each new wireless technology and frequency. This EME generator can create an electromagnetic emission with spectra and waveforms that bound the spectra and waveforms of digitally modulated wireless signals. All of the factors that cause a wireless signal to interfere with nearby electronics are operator controlled in the EME generator, and set to conservative values for conducting compatibility testing. Spectrum and signal analysis measurements and susceptibility tests of a common test article were conducted for both 802.11(N/G) wireless and EME generator emission sources in the multipath environment of the NSWC Dahlgren reverberation chamber. Results indicate that the EME generator will enable evaluation of high-frequency EMI effects to legacy shipboard electronic systems, and provide valuable compatibility information as wireless systems continue to move to higher frequencies, wider bandwidths, and higher aggregate power.
A PDA-based record-keeping and decision-support system for traceability in cucumber production

For the small-scale and scattered fresh cucumber production in China, the result that production record-keeping and its transfer are inefficient have prevented the wide application of traceability systems in China. With the mobility and computability, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) provides a new way for agricultural information collection to solve the above problems. Thus a PDA-based Record-keeping and Decision-support System (PRDS) for traceability in cucumber production was developed on Windows Mobile platform invoking a Geographic Information System (GIS) control. For improving the decision making feasibility of PRDS, the fertilization recommendation model and pesticide usage early warning model were developed by using the Technical Specification of Balanced Fertilization by Soil Testing and the Guideline for Safety Application of Pesticides in China. The architecture of PRDS was provided. With Unified Modeling Language (UML), a requirement model including two types of users and 17 use cases was described, and a static class model was also designed, which consisted of table class, table operation class, algorithm class and interface class. Based on these models, the functions of system setup, map management, data management, production record-keeping and decision-support and query, etc., were implemented by adopting Hosting MapInfo MapX Mobile Controls on the .NET Compact Framework 2.0, and the data synchronization was realized by Remote Data Access (RDA). Two agricultural production enterprises were chosen as case study to evaluate the system by questionnaires. The results show that the efficiency of production record-keeping and decision-support is improved by the simple and friendly system.
High-Tech Partnering Leads to Learning-Centered Curricula for Individuals with Disabilities.

A business advisory council provides essential support to workforce development programs, including one that serves individuals with disabilities.
Conversion of laser-frequency noise to optical-rotation noise in cesium vapor

We have studied the noise in the optical rotation of a linearly polarized laser beam transmitted through a spin-polarized (133)Cs vapor as a function of its frequency detuning from the optical resonance. Our measurements demonstrate the direct conversion of the laser-frequency noise into optical rotation noise by the dispersive response of the atomic vapor. We describe this noise-conversion process in terms of a simple model that can be used to optimize the performance of atomic devices, such as atomic magnetometers, that use optical rotation as their operational signal.
Helix-coil transition and conformational studies of protamine-DNA complexes.

Protamine–DNA complexes prepared by the method of direct and slow mixing in 2.5 × 10−4M EDTA, pH 8.0, have been studied by thermal denaturation and circular dichroism. The complexes show biphasic melting with Tm at about 50 °C corresponding to the melting of free DNA regions and Tm′ at about 92 °C corresponding to the melting of protamine-bound regions. In protamine-bound regions there are 1.38 amino acid residues per nucleotide, indicating a nearly completely charge neutralization. Tm is increased but Tm′ is not when the ionic strength of the buffer is raised. This also supports a full charge neutralization in protamine-bound regions. The circular dichroism of the complexes can be decomposed into two components, Δe0 of free DNA regions in B-form conformation and Δeb of protamine-bound regions in a characteristic conformation neither that of B- nor C-form but somewhere between them.
The reduction of branch instruction execution overhead using structured control flow

This paper presents a technique for specifying change of control (e.g. branch) commands at a sequential processor's macroinstruction set level. It is shown that by representing high level language (HLL) control statements with special machine language instructions, the usual delays associated with control flow changes can be reduced. Preserving the HLL control flow information increases performance by reducing both the number of executed branches and pipeline breaks.
An Air Force Crew Allocation and Scheduling Problem

This paper considers an airline crew allocation and scheduling problem faced by certain divisions of the United States Air Force. Two variants of the problem under consideration were posed to us by the U.S. Air Force. This paper reports our experience with two heuristic methods developed, each applicable to either variant of the problem. Although the problem described herein is peculiar to this situation, the heuristic scheduling and dispatching rules developed have been found to be very effective and are generally applicable in other related contexts of routeing and crew and vehicle scheduling problems as well. The two algorithms developed have been applied to a coded set of real world data. The results indicate that each one of the two methods is preferable to the other for one of the two variants of the problem. This suggests an overall effective composite technique.
Companion Cognitive Systems: Design Goals and Lessons Learned So Far

The companion cognitive architecture supports experiments in achieving human-level intelligence. This article describes seven key design goals of companions, relating them to properties of human reasoning and learning, and to engineering concerns raised by attempting to build large-scale cognitive systems. We summarize our experiences with companions in two domains: test taking and game playing.
Design and fabrication of GMR multilayers with enhanced thermal stability

Abstract Enhanced thermal stability of NiFeCo/Cu multilayers has been observed for multilayer stacks prepared with ‘overdesigned’ magnetic layers. Multilayers such as these show almost no giant magnetoresistance (GMR) in the as-deposited state, but exhibit huge improvements upon annealing. This methodology represents a considerable improvement over conventional methods.
Chronic renal failure, parathyroid hormone and fatty acids oxidation in skeletal muscle

Chronic renal failure, parathyroid hormone and fatty acids oxidation in skeletal muscle. Fatty acids are an important source of skeletal muscle energy, and certain data suggest oxidation of long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) may be impaired in uremia. This abnormality may in part be responsible for uremic myopathy. Uremia is associated with hyperparathyroidism and PTH affects muscle metabolism; PTH enhances muscle proteolysis and impairs muscle bioenergetics, and it is possible that PTH also affects fatty acids oxidation. The present study examined in rats the effects of 4 days administration PTH and of 21 days of chronic renal failure (CRF) with and without excess PTH on oxidation of LCFA and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). Both 1-84 and 1-34 PTH impaired oxidation of LCFA but not of a SCFA (β3-frydroxybutyric acid) and reduced the activity of carnitine palmitoyl transferase (CPT). Inactiva-tion of the PTH abolished its effects. CRF rats with intact parathyroid glands had also impaired oxidation of LCFA and of CPT activity. Parathyroidectomy in CRF rats normalized these abnormalities. Carnitine contents of muscle were not altered. The data show that PTH excess in normal or in CRF rats is associated with impaired oxidation of LCFA and this effect is due to reduction in the activity of CPT, a key enzyme for the transport of LCFA to mitochondrial matrix for β-oxidation. The data demonstrate another toxic effect of PTH on muscle in CRF and provide an additional pathogenic mechanism for uremic myopathy.
Gravitational studies in Oregon

Members of the Geophysical Research Group at Oregon State University have made 225 gravity measurements at key locations in an effort to establish six gravity lines extending eastward from the Oregon coast to beyond the Cascade Mountains. George P. Woollard provided an additional 1785 measurements, and Standard Oil Company of California provided 2900 measurements. The six gravity lines are nearly completed, but some individual stations and ties betwreen stations remain to be checked. A network of 31 gravity base stations has been joined together in Oregon. The base stations are used as gravity control points in the state.