cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
21st Century Renewable Fuels, Energy, and Materials

The objectives of this project were multi-fold: (i) conduct fundamental studies to develop a new class of high temperature PEM fuel cell material capable of conducting protons at elevated temperature (180°C), (ii) develop and fabricate a 5k We novel catalytic flat plate steam reforming process for extracting hydrogen from multi-fuels and integrate with high-temperature PEM fuel cell systems, (iii) research and develop improved oxygen permeable membranes for high power density lithium air battery with simple control systems and reduced cost, (iv) research on high energy yield agriculture bio-crop (Miscanthus) suitable for reformate fuel/alternative fuel with minimum impact on human food chain and develop a cost analysis and production model, and (v) develop math and science alternative energy educator program to include bio-energy and power.
Headache in Sickle Cell Disease

The prevalence of frequent headache in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) compared to that of control subjects without known sickle cell trait, and the cause of the headaches were studied at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, PA, and Duke University Medical Center.
Confluence: visualizing social physics for interactive narrative

We introduce Confluence, a web-based social physics game framework and development tools. It seeks to combine the powers of graphical game engines with physics and animation, and social simulation of social physics engines, with convenient tools like social network visualization, strategy analysis and in-game social rule authoring. We evaluate it in developing a game with character personalities and goals that are influenced by social norms.
Polarons in Colossal Magnetoresistive and High-Temperature Superconducting Materials

We review some unconventional oxygen-isotope effects in colossal magnetoresistive manganites and high temperature superconducting cuprates to assess the role of electron-phonon coupling in the basic physics of these materials. These include the unconventional oxygen-isotope effects on the Curie temperature and electrical transport in doped ferromagnetic manganites, on the supercarrier mass of superconducting cuprates, and on the antiferromagnetic ordering temperature of undoped parent cuprates. These unconventional isotope effects clearly demonstrate that the formation of polarons/bipolarons due to strong electron-phonon coupling is relevant to the basic physics of these materials and may be important for the occurrence of colossal magnetoresistance and high-temperature superconductivity. We also identify the phonon modes that are strongly coupled to conduction electrons from the angleresolved photoemission spectroscopy, tunneling spectra, and optical data of doped cuprates. We consistently show a strong electron-phonon coupling feature at about 20 meV along the antinodal direction, which should also be important to the pairing mechanism of high-temperature superconductivity.
Combination of multiple classifiers using local accuracy estimates

Combination of multiple classifiers (CMC) has recently drawn attention as a method of improving classification accuracy. This paper presents a method for combining classifiers that use estimates of each individual classifier's local accuracy in small regions of feature space surrounding an unknown test sample. Only the output of the most locally accurate classifier is considered. We address issues of (1) optimization of individual classifiers, and (2) the effect of varying the sensitivity of the individual classifiers on the CMC algorithm. Our algorithm performs better on data from a real problem in mammogram image analysis than do other recently proposed CMC techniques.
“Even our Dairy Queen shut down”: Risk and resilience in bioenergy development in forest-dependent communities in the US South

Wood-based bioenergy in the US South is a key element in a sociotechnical imaginary that brings together rural development, energy independence, and environmental sustainability; it is also a key element in another imaginary in which powerful interest groups from the private sector and government collude in ways that enrich them regardless of success of the endeavor, while simultaneously posing risks to the host community. We contend that bioenergy development can introduce new risks for local communities that are often overlooked in imaginaries promulgating bioenergy as a driver of community resilience. Based on ethnographic research in Soperton, Georgia, site of the failed Range Fuels cellulosic ethanol plant and current LanzaTech experimental plant, we show how various aspects of these imaginaries merge, overlap, and compete as different actors experience the opening—and sometimes closure—of these facilities in rural communities that are often economically depressed, politically conservative, and deeply rooted in forestry both economically and culturally.
Experimental demonstration of nullforming from a fully wireless distributed array

We consider distributed nullforming using an array of wireless transmitters that coordinate their transmissions to achieve destructive interference at a designated receiver. We describe the first experimental demonstration of distributed nullforming to a target receiver from an array of three distributed transmitters using (mostly) off-the-shelf hardware and simple and standard signal processing techniques. We are motivated by the goal of using distributed arrays to achieve increased spectrum reuse through interference cancellation. Our results show interference suppression in excess of 25dB over uncoordinated transmission. We build on our recent experimental demonstration of beamforming from a distributed antenna array after estimating and compensate for the combined effects of unknown propagation channels, hardware mismatches and clock drifts between the array nodes. The transmitters do not share clocks or have any wired back channels. They coordinate achieve nullforming entirely using in-band wireless message exchanges. Thus these methods can be implemented on portable mobile devices rather than being limited to Base Stations.
Targeting Clinical and Preventive Care to and Around HIV-Infected Persons: The Concept of Early Intervention

This presentation outlines a program, centered around a concept known as early intervention, designed to minimize the damage inflicted to individuals and to society by the HIV-1 epidemic. Before describing this program in detail, however, it seems helpful to first review the characteristics of HIV-1 which justify such a program. A clear understanding of the risks posed by HIV-1 and the urgency of dealing with this epidemic must be communicated to those who allocate the resources required to field an early intervention program.
Protein-RNA Recognition in a Highly Conserved Ribosomal Domain Targeted by Thiazole Antibiotics

Publisher Summary A number of protein-RNA interactions in the ribosome have been conserved during evolution and it is the most ancient examples of protein-nucleic acid recognition in the cell. Lll recognizes a 58 nucleotide ribosomal RNA (rRNA) fragment. The structure of a 76 residue Lll RNA-binding domain, both free in solution and bound to its RNA target, has been solved by magnetic resonance (NMR) methods, and the RNA-binding surface defined by site directed mutagenesis and nuclear NMR. Two main features contribute to recognition: an α-helix and a large, flexible loop that adopts a specific conformation upon binding. The protein structure is remarkably similar to that of the homeodomain class of Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-binding proteins. Phylogenetic analysis has been very helpful in suggesting key components of the RNA tertiary structure and the Lll recognition surface, the most highly conserved residues (either protein or RNA) tend to be required either for folding or for recognition. However, the phylogenetic record also suggests that bacterial, archaeal and eukaryotic complexes use slightly different strategies for recognition.
The (fat) body and the archive: Toward the creation of a fat community archive

The author aims to address and analyze the existence of fat bodies in the memory space of the “archive.” Utilizing the work of Allan Sekula, the author will propose that systems of classification within the photographic archive contribute to a “shadow archive” that position some bodies as a deviant “Other.” The author, taking this approach of discussing both the physical and metaphysical impact of archiving, turns to the inaccurate and negative representation of the fat person in the photographic archive as seen most obviously in the archetypal “headless fatty” as described by Charlotte Cooper. In this case study, the author considers how the negative interpretations of fat people as detrimental to society are maintained and further propagated in the historical record by the type of information that is archived about them. Michelle Caswell defined this kind of systemic misrepresentation in the archive as “symbolic annihilation” meaning that marginalized groups, like fat people, are erased or trivi...
CGRP — The Next Frontier for Migraine

Migraine is a common problem for adults and children. In its global burden as a disease, it is consistently in the top 10, and among neurologic disorders, it is second only to stroke in its number of associated disability-adjusted life-years.1,2 Currently, treatment for migraine involves a multipronged approach of abortive, preventive, and biobehavioral therapies, as well as treatments that have been developed for other diseases, such as antiepileptic medications. The complexity of migraine, which is considered to be a polygenetic disease with environmental modifiers, is the main reason for the paucity of migraine-specific treatments. In the 1980s, the first acute . . .
Tracing the effects of politicization on public procurement specialists’ decision-making through values: A structural equation model of the broker-purist lens

Currently, our understandings of the dynamics behind the effects of politicization on values and on administrative decision-making remain largely muddled and far from complete. The richness of theoretical accounts, amassed over the past eight decades, has yielded only a limited number of empirical examinations. This failure to develop a coherent collection of empirical works can be for the most part attributed to the complexity associated with studying values, particularly to the lack of clear and testable theories and models. This article attempts to address this deficit and to add to our understandings of the association between values and administrative decision-making at the individual level by explicitly testing the Broker-Purist (BP) model (within a sample of public procurement specialists). It is found that the BP model fits the data well, which suggest the framework as a valid and useful perspective for conceptualizing the effects of environmental politicization on administrative decision-making in public procurement specifically, and in public administration in general.
Hearing Loss: Diagnosis and Management

Hearing loss may affect all age groups from the newborn to the elderly, impacting speech and language development in children and causing social and vocational problems for adults. Hearing loss can arise from anywhere in the auditory circuit including the external auditory canal, sound conduction mechanism, cochlea, cochlear nerve, and central auditory pathways. Rehabilitation options exist for all types of hearing loss, regardless of cause or location within the auditory system. Awareness of symptoms, signs, and rehabilitative measures aids primary care physicians in early identification and treatment of hearing loss.
Renal Artery Bypass

Operative treatment of patients with renovascular occlusive disease has become somewhat standardized. Although newer diagnostic tests and refined indications for therapeutic interventions have contributed to better surgical results, salutary outcomes have been influenced most by the proficient performance of properly chosen primary procedures by experienced surgeons. The procedures are tailored to the subgroups of renal artery disease.
Excitons and Energy Transfer in Doped Luminescent Molecular Organic Materials

Excitons are integral to nearly all electronic processes in molecular organic solids. Exciton diffusion is a dominant method of energy transfer; exciton absorption dominates the absorption spectrum; and exciton formation is necessary for luminescence and photoconductivity. Indeed, tracking excitonic processes is the key to understanding the physical behavior of molecular organic semiconductors. In this chapter, we examine excitonic behavior in doped molecular organic thin films, focusing on energy-transfer processes between dissimilar organic molecules.
Penetrating abdominal trauma index.

A method of quantifying the risk of complication following penetrating abdominal trauma is described. A trauma index score was calculated by assigning a risk factor (1-5) to each organ injured and then multiplying this by a severity of injury estimate (1-5). The sum of the individual organ scores comprised the final penetrating trauma index (P.A.T.I.). A consecutive series from 1975 to 1979 of 108 isolated stab wounds and 114 gunshot wounds to the abdomen requiring laparotomy were analyzed by this scheme. Only patients surviving 24 hours postoperatively were evaluated. Gunshot wounds resulted in P.A.T.I. scores greater than 25 in 39 (34%) of the patients. This was associated with a 46% complication rate and contrasted to a 7% incidence when the P.A.T.I. was equal to or less than 25. Following abdominal stab wounds six (6%) of the patients had P.A.T.I. scores exceeding 25. Complications developed in 50% of this group compared to 5% when the P.A.T.I. was less than 25. Using the P.A.T.I., we conclude that gunshot victims are more likely to need trauma center treatment than those with stab wounds. The P.A.T.I. also might facilitate cost analysis of trauma care. The ability to assess effects of patient age, sex, amount of blood loss, duration of hemodynamic shock, and metabolic response to injury might further enhance the therapeutic implications in both penetrating and blunt abdominal trauma.
Using Point-of-Choice Prompts to Reduce Sedentary Behavior in Sit-Stand Workstation Users

Introduction: Desk-based office workers are at occupational risk for poor health outcomes from excessive time spent sitting. Sit-stand workstations are used to mitigate sitting, but lack of workstation usage has been observed. Point-of-choice (PoC) prompts offer a complementary strategy for office workers to break up their sitting time. Study purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the preliminary efficacy, preference, and acceptability of a theory-driven (i.e. 40 unique prompts encompassing social cognitive theory; TD-PoC) and an atheoretical basic reminder PoC prompt intervention (R-PoC) on reducing sedentary behavior in office workers with self-reported low sit-stand workstation usage ( 0.05). Conclusion: While the R-PoC prompt condition was slightly more efficacious than the TD-PoC prompt condition, the TD-PoC prompt condition was rated with higher preference and acceptability scores. Large variations between participants in preference, acceptability and intervention feedback may indicate need for tailored messaging which may facilitate sustained use in the long-term.
A clinical trial of intravenous mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of anthracycline associated cardiomyopathy

Background & Aim Cardiomyopathy and cardiovascular toxicities can occur up to 20 years after anthracycline exposure with an incidence of 20%. Anthracycline cardiotoxicity (AC) is mediated by reactive oxygen species. Despite guideline directed medical therapy (GDMT) 52% of AC patients develop progressive heart failure. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been shown to improve left ventricular structure/function by reducing fibrosis and inducing neoangiogenesis in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy. MSCs home to sites of injury and secrete VEGF in response to hypoxia, encouraging angiogenesis and increased oxygenated blood flow. MSCs create an immunosuppressive microenvironment which mitigates inflammatory response and decreases formation of scar tissue. In the AMI setting others have reported a dose related reduction in both end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes, demonstrating reverse cardiac remodeling. Methods, Results & Conclusion Methods MSCs have not been used in the AC setting. We conducted a phase 2 trial to evaluate safety and efficacy of MSCs in the AC setting. Eligibility required that patients be adults receiving maximal GDMT for heart failure and have a LVEF Conclusion Our results are consistent with prior reports in the AMI setting that the time from injury/exposure to treatment with stem cells is important. We postulate that the first patient, with exposure to anthracycline two decades prior and longstanding heart failure had scar tissue and fibrosis that was not reversible. The last two patients had more recent anthracycline exposure and both had a sustained significant improvement in EF following intravenous treatment with MSCs. No adverse events were noted. Accrual to the trial continues.
Simple protocol for preparation of Diels-Alder adducts of perfluorinated thioketones

Abstract A simple procedure for the preparation of new Diels-Alder adducts of perfluorinated thioketones is reported. The corresponding adducts were prepared in 30–78% yield by reaction of alicyclic perfluorinated olefin, sulfur, diene and CsF catalyst. While the synthesis of quadricyclane, cyclohexadiene-1,3, cycloheptatriene-1,3,5 and 2,3-dimethylbutadiene-1,3 adducts was straightforward, a modified protocol was used in the case of the reaction of cyclopentadiene-1,3,F-pentene-2 and sulfur in order to avoid the formation of cycloadduct of cyclopentediene and F-pentene-2. In this case the olefin first was reacted with sulfur and cyclopentadiene was added later. In separate experiments it was demonstarted that the reaction of F-pentene-2, sulfur and CsF catallyst leds to the formation of two isomeric perfluorinated 1,3-dithiolanes along with equimolar amount of branched polysulfides (Rf)2Sx. Due to broadening of signals in 19F NMR spectra of the most cycloadducts, additiononal variable temperature NMR experiments were carried out, and rotational barriers several adducts were found to be in the range 9.5–11 Kcal/mol.
Characterization and Evolution of Germ1, an Element that Undergoes Diminution in Lampreys (Cyclostomata: Petromyzontidae)

The sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) undergoes substantial genomic alterations during embryogenesis in which specific sequences are deleted from the genome of somatic cells yet retained in cells of the germ line. One element that undergoes diminution in P. marinus is Germ1, which consists of a somatically rare (SR) region and a fragment of 28S rDNA. Although the SR-region has been used as a marker for genomic alterations in lampreys, the evolutionary significance of its diminution is unknown. We examined the Germ1 element in five additional species of lamprey to better understand its evolutionary significance. Each representative species contained sequences similar enough to the Germ1 element of P. marinus to be detected via PCR and Southern hybridizations, although the SR-regions of Lampetra aepyptera and Lethenteron appendix are quite divergent from the homologous sequences of Petromyzon and three species of Ichthyomyzon. Lamprey Germ1 sequences have a number of features characteristic of the R2 retrotransposon, a mobile element that specifically targets 28S rDNA. Phylogenetic analyses of the SR-regions revealed patterns generally consistent with relationships among the species included in our study, although the 28S-fragments of each species/genus were most closely related to its own functional rDNA, suggesting that the two components of Germ1 were assembled independently in each lineage. Southern hybridizations showed evidence of genomic alterations involving Germ1 in each species. Our results suggest that Germ1 is a R2 retroelement that occurs in the genome of P. marinus and other petromyzontid lampreys, and that its diminution is incidental to the reduction in rDNA copies during embryogenesis.
Disease Progression and Component Failure in Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has developed into a successful and reliable procedure, with survival rates greater than 90% at 10, 15, and 20 years. Aseptic loosening and adjacent compartment arthritis account for the majority of UKA revisions. Unexplained pain following UKA is another common cause of revision but may be biased by the relative ease of converting a UKA to a total knee arthroplasty. Most instances of failure can be managed with conversion to total knee arthroplasty.
A Scoping Review for the Use of Smart Technology With Older Drivers

Date Presented 04/05/19 Visual, physical, or cognitive declines may impact older drivers, increasing their risk for motor vehicle crashes, injury, or death. Vehicle automation has the potential to reduce crash risk and promote independence. We conducted a scoping review to determine the impact of vehicle automation on older adults’ driving in regard to convenience, comfort, and safety. While vehicle automation improved aspects of driving, new technologies also presented challenges, such as increased cognitive workload. Primary Author and Speaker: Sherrilene Classen Additional Authors and Speakers: Mary Jeghers, Jane Morgan-Daniel, Sandra Winter, Luther King, Linda Struckmeyer
Energy Storage and Transmission

In the lifetimes of the present younger generation, raw energy will have to be produced not from oil or coal, but from solar or atomic sources. Our reliance upon fossil fuels will end within the lifetime of many of the readers of this book, and we must build a system for collecting and distributing inexhaustible clean energy in less than 50 years. If we fail to do this, our civilization will be in doubt.
Peanut response to inoculation and nitrogen fertilizer

Experiments were conducted from 2000 through 2003 in North Carolina to compare peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) response to inoculation with Bradyrhizobium. In one study that included 20 experiments, peanut pod yield was compared following no inoculation or inoculation with commercial granular or liquid in-furrow products. In six of these experiments, inoculant was also applied to the seed before planting. In six other experiments within this study, pod yield of inoculated and noninoculated peanut was determined following surface applications of N approximately 40 d after planting. In a second study, peanut pod yield was compared in twin row planting patterns (two rows spaced 18 cm apart on 91-cm centers) when inoculant was applied in-furrow to one of the twin rows or to both of the twin rows. In a third study, interactions of in-furrow inoculation and fumigation with metam sodium were compared. Peanut pod yield was higher following inoculation in 7 of 20 experiments. In six of the seven experiments where a yield response to inoculation was observed, peanut had not been planted previously in these fields. In experiments where peanut responded positively to inoculant, pod yield was higher when inoculant was applied in the seed furrow rather than to seed before planting. Nitrogen increased pod yield linearly in three of six experiments (p ≤ 0.05). Inoculating both rows of peanut seeded in twin row patterns yielded higher in two of four experiments than when one of the twin rows was inoculated or when inoculant was not included. Fumigation with metam sodium did not affect pod yield, regardless of inoculation treatment.
Drug content on receipt and over time for compounded formulations of famciclovir

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine famciclovir content (strength) in compounded formulations and to determine if potency changed over time.MethodsFour concentrations of oral oil suspe...
“Over-the-Hill” Yet Still Fighting Uphill Battles to Find Jobs: The Plight of Older Job Applicants Under the ADEA

This Note discusses the unresolved issue of whether the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects older job applicants from disparate impact discrimination, arguing that they should, in fact, be covered. This Note starts with an examination of the disparate impact framework and how arbitrary employment qualifications can operate indirectly to restrict the employment of older workers. It then goes into a statutory analysis of the pertinent sections of the ADEA and considers several different statutory interpretation methods. This Note will argue that the interpretation of the statute should align with its underlying purpose, which is to prohibit employers from discriminating against older people and to help older workers who have been displaced from work to regain employment. This Note then summarizes recent case law interpreting the issue, discussing the most recent developments in differing circuits. Both the Seventh and Eleventh Circuits have now effectively held that older job applicants do not have an available disparate impact claim under the ADEA. This Note argues for a different interpretation of the ADEA that would afford older job applicants the same protections as other protected groups who face similar barriers in employment. This Notes suggests several remedial measures that may address this problem for the aging workforce. These recommendations include that advocates bring cases that enable other circuits to weigh in on this issue and create a circuit split to bring it to the Supreme Court so that the highest court can clarify the ambiguous language of the ADEA. Alternatively, a congressional amendment to the ADEA to expressly include applicants in the language of the statute would eliminate any ambiguity with respect to discrimination against older applicants for employment.
A gut-restricted lithocholic acid analog as an inhibitor of gut bacterial bile salt hydrolases

Abstract Bile acids play crucial roles in host physiology by acting as both detergents that aid in digestion and as signaling molecules that bind to host receptors. Gut bacterial bile salt hydrolase (BSH) enzymes perform the gateway reaction leading to the conversion of host-produced primary bile acids into bacterially modified secondary bile acids. Small molecule probes that target BSHs will help elucidate the causal roles of these metabolites in host physiology. We previously reported the development of a covalent BSH inhibitor with low gut permeability. Here, we build on our previous findings and describe the development of a second-generation gut-restricted BSH inhibitor with enhanced potency, reduced off-target effects, and durable in vivo efficacy. SAR studies focused on the bile acid core identified a compound, AAA-10, containing a C3-sulfonated lithocholic acid scaffold and an alpha-fluoromethyl ketone warhead as a potent pan-BSH inhibitor. This compound inhibits BSH activity in conventional mouse fecal slurries, bacterial cultures, and purified BSH proteins and displays reduced toxicity against mammalian cells compared to first generation compounds. Oral administration of AAA-10 to wild-type mice for 5 days resulted in a decrease in the abundance of the secondary bile acids deoxycholic acid (DCA) and lithocholic acid (LCA) in the mouse GI tract with low systemic exposure of AAA-10, demonstrating that AAA-10 is an effective tool for inhibiting BSH activity and modulating bile acid pool composition in vivo.
Post-extreme-event restoration using linear topological constraints and DER scheduling to enhance distribution system resilience

Abstract In this paper, a post-extreme-event restoration (PEER) algorithm is proposed to improve distribution system resilience. Linear topological constraints are proposed to ensure radial topology after N-k contingencies, possibly in multiple islands. The approach is made comprehensive by considering dispatchable distributed energy resources (DERs), non-dispatchable DERs, and demand responses, as well as on-load tap changers (OLTCs) and shunt capacitors. The goal is to minimize the accumulative expense caused by load reduction payment or penalty, as well as DER operation cost. As a result, the overall system will survive longer with higher resilience during an extreme event. To verify the effectiveness of the PEER algorithm, a resilience evaluation algorithm is proposed using Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) with reduced scenarios. This is based on a probabilistic model for generating random scenarios which consider the uncertainty of line faults and solar irradiance. Combined with the proposed PEER algorithm, this reduced-scenario MCS can evaluate the expected energy not served (EENS) which is an essential index for distribution system resilience. Case studies of the IEEE 33-bus and 123-bus test systems validate the proposed algorithm in reducing EENS.
Using Video to Improve Understanding of Anatomy for Clinical Medical Students

Study Objective Surgical videos allow students to observe cases prior to entering the operating room, thereby improving the intra-operative learning experience for both the student and the educator. Minimally invasive surgery is especially suited to this modality of teaching. We created an interactive video series that allows students to better understand the elements of common gynecologic procedures, including laparoscopic salpingectomy-oophorectomy. Design This video on laparoscopic salpingectomy-oophorectomy was created as part of a 4-part series demonstrating common gynecologic procedures. The video reviews the indications for the procedure, basic tools used, port-site placement, and surgical footage of the laparoscopic entry, surveillance, peritoneal lavage, and removal of the ovary and fallopian tube to help students become more familiar with the different elements of the case. Setting The video was produced by the UCSF Educational Department to be used by third-year medical students during their OB-GYN rotation at an academic teaching hospital. Patients or Participants Videos were created for clinical medical students and narrated by senior medical students. Interventions The videos were shared on the OB-GYN rotation website. Following completion of the video, students were asked to complete a short anonymous survey about the effectiveness of the videos. Measurements and Main Results Of the 29 students who participated in the survey, 27 (93.1%) felt that they were significantly or somewhat more prepared to participate in the operating room after watching these videos compared to prior. Students found that the videos were either extremely or very useful for learning gynecologic anatomy (n=23, 79.3%) or learning the steps of surgical procedures (n=24, 82.8%), and 23 students (79.3%) were extremely or very willing to recommend these videos to their classmates. Conclusion Surgical film for medical students can improve the understanding and comfort in the operating during clinical rotations and enhance the clinical clerkship experience.
Reminiscences of the Moon Trips

In the Shadow of the Moon . David Sington, Director . THINKFilm, New York, in association with Discovery Films, 2007. 100 minutes. www.intheshadowofthemoon.com This documentary combines footage from NASA9s archives with interviews of the surviving crew members of the nine Apollo spacecraft that journeyed to the Moon between 1968 and 1972.
Biochemical characterization of the p34cdc2 protein kinase component of purified maturation-promoting factor from Xenopus eggs.

Abstract Genetic studies in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe and biochemical data in oocytes and eggs of Xenopus laevis have implicated the product of the cdc2+ gene as critical for the G2 to M transition in the cell cycle. The product of the cdc2+ gene is a 34-kDa serine/threonine protein kinase, designated p34cdc2, that is a component of purified maturation-promoting factor (MPF) and also of purified mammalian growth-associated histone H1 kinase. The biochemical properties of p34cdc2 H1 kinase activity in the MPF complex were studied. Phosphorylation of the p45cyclin component in the MPF complex by p34cdc2 exhibited kinetics consistent with an intramolecular reaction. On glycerol gradient centrifugation, MPF kinase against several substrates sedimented with an apparent Mr = 45,000-55,000. p34cdc2 was found to utilize ATP, GTP, and adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) with apparent Km values of 75, 700, and 250 microM, respectively. The kinase activity was inhibited by beta-glycerophosphate, NaF, and zinc, whereas p-nitrophenyl phosphate was slightly stimulatory. The relative rates of phosphorylation of various substrates by MPF and growth-associated H1 kinase were similar. These findings should prove useful in further work on the regulation of MPF kinase activity and characterization of its substrates.
System Analysis and Control Design for a Membrane with Bimorph Actuators

A square membrane structure with clamped edges and four lead zirconate titanate bimorph actuators is modeled using Kirchhoff’s plate theory. Two systems are considered, defined by the relative location of the actuators on the membrane. The finite element method is used to generate linear time-invariant models in the second-order form. The number of elements used in the finite element method is determined via a systematic analysis based on the convergence of fundamental natural frequencies and mode shapes. Characteristics that are essential for system analysis and control design such as stability, controllability, and observability are investigated using methods based on the linear time-invariant first-order form of the linear equations of motion and methods based on the linear time-invariant second-order form directly generated via the finite element method. Comparisons between the accuracy and reliability of these methods are performed. Next, modern control problems aimed at minimizing vibrations and the...
Generating Verified Java Components through RESOLVE

For software components to be reused with confidence, they must be correct. Unlike testing, formal verification can be used to certify that a component will behave correctly regardless of context, as long as that context satisfies component assumptions. Some verification systems for developing correct components in languages such as Java are simplified to be practical, but are not complete. Other systems that account for necessary semantic complications arising from underlying reference behavior demand non-trivial specification and verification. This paper describes an alternative. Under this approach, reusable components are specified, implemented, and verified in RESOLVE, a language with clean semantics, and are translated to Java. To improve confidence in the verification process, we are currently re-engineering the RESOLVE verification system itself with generated verified components.
Channel quality based adaptation of TCP with loss discrimination

TCP responds to all losses by invoking congestion control and avoidance algorithms, resulting in degraded end-to-end performance in lossy environments. In recent years, two approaches have been taken to improve the performance of TCP in such networks. One is local retransmission and the other is end-to-end control. These schemes either impose a heavy computational burden on base station, or cannot achieve both efficient bandwidth usage and fairness between flows because they cannot distinguish the flows on low quality wireless links from flows on high quality links. In this paper, we present a new wireless TCP protocol-End-to-end Link State Aware TCP (TCP-ELSA)-that adjusts the sending rate of a TCP flow according to the wireless link quality, but still provides good congestion control when congestion-related losses occur. The aim of TCP-ELSA is to adapt the sending rate of TCP to the link quality so that the efficiency of bandwidth usage is increased. We present simulation results that demonstrate the effectiveness of TCP-ELSA in various scenarios.
Expert system building tools

An overview is presented of features in several expert system building tools, and the mechanical properties of knowledge representation in these tools are described. A knowledge canonical form based on knowledge representation schemes found in commercial expert system building tools is then described. The knowledge canonical form can be used for knowledge base translation, cooperation between expert systems, and reuse of expert systems. A number of complex expert systems built from simpler loosely coupled systems are then described. >
On self-similarity and hamiltonicity of dual-cubes

The dual-cube is a newly proposed topology for interconnection networks, which uses low dimensional hypercubes as building blocks. The primary advantages of the dual-cube over the hypercube are that, with the same node degree n, the dual-cube contains 2/sup n-1/ times more nodes than the hypercube and, with the same amount of nodes, the dual-cube has approximately 50% less links than the hypercube. This paper was focused on the investigations of the structural self-similarity and the Hamiltonian property of the dual-cube. It was shown that a dual-cube can be recursively constructed from lower dimensional dual-cubes and, conversely, a dual-cube can be recursively decomposed into lower dimensional dual-cubes. It was also proved that all dual-cubes are Hamiltonian. There exist multiple Hamiltonian cycles on a dual-cube, among which, [(n-1)/2] cycles are edge-disjoint. It was illustrated that rings and linear arrays can be effectively emulated on dual-cubes. Some strategies for track sharing in efficient VLSI layout design were also discussed.
Learning from a random player using the reference neuron model

The reference neuron model (RNM) is an example of an advanced model of neurological structure. The model is based on the principle of superposition-free memory, i.e., the requirement that the acquisition of new memories by a neural network does not degrade or hybridize the previously acquired memories. The RNM incorporates features found in procedural systems as well as the distributed pattern recognition capabilities found in connectionist neural network approaches. The memory manipulation mechanisms inherent in the model support the development of temporal as well as associative memory structures through trial and error learning. The results of which contribute to the development of knowledge by the model about its environment. The RNM is capable of learning strategies to play board games with a reasonable level of performance. In this work, results of experiments with the game of Tic-tac-toe are presented. The RNM is taught to play the game by simulating contests between the RNM and an artificial opponent that simply makes random moves. Through a series of games, the RNM acquires strategies that permit it to consistently win games. Various sizes of boards were tested to demonstrate that the results produced using RNM scale to larger search spaces. In addition, results are presented that provide evidence that as additional types of memories (e.g. temporal, associative, and artificial imagination) are introduced into the system, the performance improves.
Best Practices for Survey Research Reports Revisited: Implications of Target Population, Probability Sampling, and Response Rate

Several papers have been published recently in the Journal addressing “best practices” for survey research manuscripts. This paper explores in more detail the effects of the target population size on sample size determination, probability sampling versus census approaches, and response rates and the relationship to potential nonresponse bias. Survey research is a complex methodology requiring expertise in the planning, execution, and analytic stages.
Stigma and treatment delay in first-episode psychosis: a grounded theory study

Aim: A longer duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) is associated with greater morbidity in the early course of schizophrenia. This formative, hypothesis-generating study explored the effects of stigma, as perceived by family members, on DUP. Methods: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 12 African American family members directly involved in treatment initiation for a relative with first-episode psychosis. Data analysis relied on a grounded theory approach. A testable model informed by constructs of Link's modified labelling theory was developed. Results: Four main themes were identified, including: (i) society's beliefs about mental illnesses; (ii) families' beliefs about mental illnesses; (iii) fear of the label of a mental illness; and (iv) a raised threshold for the initiation of treatment. A grounded theory model was developed as a schematic representation of the themes and subthemes uncovered in the family members' narratives. Conclusions: The findings suggest that due to fear of the official label of a mental illness, certain coping mechanisms may be adopted by families, which may result in a raised threshold for treatment initiation, and ultimately treatment delay. If the relationships within the grounded theory model are confirmed by further qualitative and quantitative research, public educational programs could be developed with the aim of reducing this threshold, ultimately decreasing DUP.
A critical evaluation of the available measurements for the stable isotopes of boron

Abstract The reported measurements for the stable isotopes of B (11B and 10B) in natural materials are compiled, critically reviewed and evaluated. The selected values along with a discussion of the error, indicate the potential exists for using B isotopes in interpreting geochemical environments. The isotopic values for δ11B range from -31%0 for terrestrial rocks to +40%0 for sea water, relative to NBS SRM-951 which has a reported 11B/10B ratio of 4.04362 ± 0.00137 (2σ). Furtherm the isotope ratios generally form a narrow cluster of values for specific rock types. In some instances the reported δ11B may be shifted substantially from the mean of “unaltered” rock as a result of weathering or reaction such as the progressive enrichment of δ11B in marine sediments over time due to reaction with sea water. An application of widespread interest is the use of B isotopes in environmental studies. Boron is a contaminant derived from numerous sources such as municipal and industrial waste. The δ11B in these wastes or processed waters is often significantly different from the δ11B of the local ground-water, which will likely reflect the δ11B values of the nearby rocks. This modification by contaminated water can be >20%0 different from the δ11B of the unaffected water, providing a useful tool in delineating the source of contamination and the direction of migration.
The implications of joint deformation in analyzing the properties and behavior of fractured rock masses, underground excavations, and faults

Abstract For a given stress state, joint deformation depends on the joint’s geometry, including surface roughness, spatial geometry of the contact area, and large-scale topographical features such as dips. Under normal stress, contacting asperities compress, and the half spaces bounding the joint are deformed. A very significant consequence of half-space deformation is that it allows mechanical interaction among all contact points between the joint surfaces. As a result, the contact area’s overall spatial geometry plays an important role in determining the distribution of stress across joint surfaces and the change in geometry of the void space between surfaces that occurs with changes in stress. Mechanical interaction among contact points is important in determining normal joint stiffness: two joints with the same total contact area can have substantially different stiffnesses depending on the spatial geometry of their contact areas. Modeling results indicate that joints with small contact areas uniformly distributed across the surfaces can be nearly as stiff as a perfectly mated interface. These results have significant implications for almost any endeavor in fractured rock, including designing underground excavations, predicting the hydraulic response of a rock mass to changes in stress, understanding the deformation and failure of joints under shear stress, and analyzing the stability of faults. In underground excavations, for example, deformation of the roof and floor means that the load acting on any supporting pillar and the distribution of stress throughout the pillar depend on: the pillar’s size and shape; the size, shape, and proximity of neighboring pillars; and the spatial geometry of the pillar array. Purely elastic deformation can lead to either catastrophic or progressive failure. Similarly, to accurately predict fluid flow through jointed rock, changes in void space geometry that result from changes in stress must be considered; these changes in geometry are not predicted by methods that assume that aperture changes uniformly across the joint. For joints and faults, the nonuniform distribution of normal and shear stresses resulting from surface roughness and mechanical interaction between contact points suggests a progressive form of shear failure. Failure is initiated at points of low normal stress and propagates as stress from failed asperities is redistributed to neighboring asperities. Consistent with observations on many faults, modeling and analytical results predict that earthquakes on a fault would be clustered in time and space because of mechanical interaction between persistent asperities.
Edge-driven transition in the surface structure of nanoscale silicon

We present an ab initio exploration of the phenomena which will become important for freestanding structures of silicon as they are realized on the nanoscale. We find that not only surface but also edge effects are important considerations in structures of dimensions on the order of 3 nm. Specifically, for long nanoscale silicon bars, we find two competing low-energy reconstructions with a transition from one to the other as the cross section of the bar decreases. We predict that this size-dependent phase transition has a signature in the electronic structure of the bar but little effect on elastic properties.
An X-ray scattering beam line at the national synchrotron light source

Abstract An X-ray beam line for chemical crystallography and scattering research is under construction at the National Synchrotron Light Source (Brookhaven National Laboratory). The X-ray beam is designed to be tunable in the energy region 4 to 21 keV ( λ = 0.6−3.1 A ) with an energy resolution (ΔE/E) of 5 × 10−4. The intensity will be uniform to better than 1% over an area of 0.3 ×10.3 mm2 at the sample position. The beam optics will consist of two mirrors: one spherical and one bent cylinder approximating an ellipsoid, as well as a fixed exit double-crystal (Si) monochromator. The line will be instrumental with a four-circle goniostat (Huber) designed to work in both vertical and horizontal modes. The chi-circle has an inner diameter of 40 cm and an offset phi-axis to allow the use of a variety of sample chambers such as high- or low-temperature devices. The diffractometer will be controlled by a PDP-11/23 microcomputer operating under RSX-11M. The beam line initially will be outfitted with a single-channel detector. Equipment will also include a rotation camera for extensive data collections on macromolecules using film as a detection medium. The beam line is designed and built jointly by a Participating Research Team and the National Synchrotron Light Source Facility and is expected to commence regular experimental research, after an initial start-up period, during the first half of 1982.