cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Topographical Distribution of the Blubber of Harbor Porpoises (Phocoena phocoena)

Thickness of blubber was measured at 48 sites on the bodies of 68 male and 46 female harbor porpoises ( Phocoena phocoena ) from the Bay of Fundy, Canada, and Gulf of Maine and mid-Atlantic coast of the United States. Blubber was thinner over the head than in the thoracic-abdominal region, where thickness varied little around the girth of the animal. Thickness of blubber anterior to the anus ranged from 15 to 25 mm. Posterior to the anus, blubber formed thick dorsal and ventral ridges but was extremely thin laterally. In the thoracic-abdominal region, blubber of calves ( X = 22.9 mm ± 3.6 SD; n = 11) was significantly thicker than that of all other animals, but lactating females had the thinnest blubber (14.5 ± 3.1 mm; n = 7). Immature porpoises of both sexes, mature males, and non-lactating mature females had thicknesses of blubber intermediate between those of calves and lactating females. Thickness of blubber anterior to the anus was correlated negatively with body size, an unusual relationship for a marine mammal. Blubber posterior to the anus was similar among reproductive classes. Blubber of the harbor porpoise appears to be divided into two functional components. The thoracic-abdominal blubber functions primarily as an energy store and insulation, and posterior blubber acts to maintain hydrodynamic shape on the peduncle. Calves and adult porpoises may have different thermoregulatory and energetic strategies, resulting in different adaptations of blubber structure.
Quantitative electrophysiological studies of mental tasks

Abstract A number of pilot studies were performed to evaluate the utility in human studies of the so-called ‘tracer strategy’ previously used extensively in numerous experiments by the senior author of this paper. This strategy utilized presentation of visual or auditory information intensity modulated at some specific repetition rate or ‘tracer frequency’. Representation, storage and retrieval by the brain of information thus presented is identified by the appearance of ‘labelled responses’ defined as power in the EEG spectrum at the tracer frequency or averaged ERP waveshapes extracted from brain electrical activity by triggering on the onset of the modulation cycle. This method has been applied to scalp recordings obtained during performance of 1. (1) audio-visual continuous pursuit tasks in which the target and pursuer were labelled at different frequencies and 2. (2) delayed match from sample tasks in which sets of letters, numbers or faces modulated at a specific frequency had to be retrieved from working memory. Results showed statistically significant appearance of labelled responses in different scalp regions, depending upon the nature of the cognitive task.
Pareto-Optimal Gamma Spectroscopic Radionuclide Identification Using Evolutionary Computing

Detection and identification of special nuclear materials (SNM) in measured gamma spectra is a challenge for nuclear security applications of spectroscopy. There are ongoing international efforts in industry, academia, and government to develop accurate, robust automated methods of gamma spectroscopic analysis to identify signature patterns characteristic of SNM. In this paper, we introduce a new approach for processing gamma-ray spectra measured by an NaI detector. The approach searches for radionuclide signature patterns in the measured spectrum by formulating a multiobjective optimization problem. Search in the multiobjective space is performed by an evolutionary algorithm, which identifies a solution in the context of Pareto Optimality Theory. The proposed approach is composed of two main steps: 1) signature selection, and 2) Pareto-optimal fitting. The output of the algorithm includes a list of all the identified radionuclides and their relative contributions to the gamma spectrum. The methodology is applied to a set of gamma spectra and compared to multiple linear regression fitting. Results demonstrate the superiority of the Pareto-optimal approach over multiple regression in the majority of the tested cases.
Roles and Realities: When and Why Gatekeepers Fail to Change Foreign Policy

The adoption of international norms by a state depends on the active support of decision makers in key gatekeeping positions. Yet, political change does not inevitably follow the initiatives of norm entrepreneurs. The literature on norm dynamics has largely focused on successful norm change. This focus on cases that support the notion that norms matter constitutes selection on the dependent variable. To more fully grasp the role and limits of gatekeepers, it is important to also investigate cases where political resistance prevented the domestic adoption of international norms. This study uses an illustrative case study in which circumstances appeared ripe for a new policy direction but where change failed to materialize. The study concludes that gatekeepers matter, but also that norm change crucially, depends not only on gatekeepers' ability to frame norms in terms that resonate domestically but also on their ability to build coalitions with other relevant political actors.
Seafloor topography: A record of a chaotic dynamical system?

We suggest that limits on the number of independent variables that play a role in controlling the shape of the seafloor can be obtained directly from bathymetry data. To obtain this information, seafloor topography is considered as a product of a larger system that produces the oceanic lithosphere. We hypothesize that this dynamical system is chaotic, and use bathymetric depth values to search for evidence of a strange attractor, the dimension of which approximates the number of degrees of freedom in the system. An analysis of Sea Beam multibeam data collected along a flow line of seafloor spreading in the Northeast Pacific Ocean indicates that the dynamical system that forms the topography (on the length scale of 100'S of meters) has an underlying structure indicative of a high-order attractor.
Differential Flap Dynamics in Wild-Type and a Drug Resistant Variant of HIV-1 Protease Revealed by Molecular Dynamics and NMR Relaxation

In the rapidly evolving disease of HIV, drug resistance readily emerges, nullifying the effectiveness of therapy. Drug resistance has been extensively studied in HIV-1 protease where resistance occurs when the balance between enzyme inhibition and substrate recognition and turnover is perturbed to favor catalytic activity. Mutations which confer drug resistance can impact the dynamics and structure of both the bound and unbound forms of the enzyme. Flap+ is a multidrug-resistant variant of HIV-1 protease with a combination of mutations at the edge of the active site, within the active site, and in the flaps (L10I, G48V, I54V, and V82A). The impact of these mutations on the dynamics in the unliganded form in comparison with the wild-type protease was elucidated with Molecular Dynamic simulations and NMR relaxation experiments. The comparative analyses from both methods concur in showing that the enzyme’s dynamics are impacted by the drug resistance mutations in Flap+ protease. These alterations in the enzy...
Intense blue luminescence spectra and lifetimes of Tm(3+) in POCl3:SnCl4

Abstract Intense emission in the blue (365, 453 and 481 nm) and weaker emission in the red (650–800 nm) were recorded following direct and indirect light excitation of Tm 3+ in POCl 3 :SnCl 4 (8 vol.%) to the 1 D 2 and 1 G 4 levels, located at 27 856 and 21459 cm −1 above the ground state 3 H 6 of Tm 3+ . Time-resolved emission spectra and luminescence decay studies led to average luminescence lifetimes of the 1 D 2 level equal to 23.2 μs and 23.6 μs respectively. They were found to be independent of the concentration of Tm 3+ . The lifetime of the 1 G 4 level, however, was found to vary from 69 to 154 μs for Tm 3+ concentrations ranging from 5.0 × 10 −3 to 5.0 × 10 −2 M. Non-radiative de-excitation of the emitting levels of Tm 3+ is attributed to interactions with the solvent, cross relaxation and interactions with the CT state of Tm 3+ in POCl 3 :SnCl 4 .
Differential stereospecificities and affinities of folate receptor isoforms for folate compounds and antifolates.

Two membrane folate receptor (MFR) isoforms are present in human tissues i.e. MFR-1 (e.g. placenta) and MFR-2 (e.g. placenta, KB cells, CaCo-2 cells). MFR-1 was expressed in COS-1 cells and the resulting protein had the same polypeptide molecular weight as the native protein. The affinities of (6S) and (6R) diastereoisomers of N5-methyltetrahydrofolate, N5-formyltetrahydrofolate, and 5,10-dideazatetrahydrofolate as well as folic acid and methotrexate to MFR-1, MFR-2 and placental MFR (MFR-1 plus MFR-2) were determined in terms of the Ki values for their competitive inhibition of the binding of [3H]folic acid to these proteins. The results indicated a striking difference in the stereospecificity of MFR-1 and MFR-2 for reduced folate coenzymes; MFR-2 preferentially bound to the physiological (6S) diastereoisomers and MFR-1 bound preferentially to the unphysiological (6R) diastereoisomers, while dideazatetrahydrofolate did not show significant stereospecificity for MFR-1. Furthermore, MFR-2 displayed significantly (2- to 100-fold) greater affinities for all the compounds tested compared to MFR-1. Purified placental MFR, a natural source of MFR-1 which contains variable amounts of MFR-2, showed intermediate Ki values for the compounds tested compared with MFR-1 and MFR-2 and stereospecificities similar to MFR-1. These observations demonstrate striking differences in the ligand binding sites of MFR-1 and MFR-2 which could potentially be exploited in the design of MFR isoform specific antifolates.
Danish wind power policy: domestic and international forces

Denmark is a windy, low-lying country with a very long coastline where global warming, rising sea levels and renewable energy are serious national issues. Renewable energy in Denmark is primarily wind power, a traditional and popular energy source. Until 2001, Danish energy policy was largely synonymous with environmental policy, based on a broad popular and political consensus. A European Commission survey published in January 2007 showed 93% of the population supported renewable energy sources (EWEA News Release 2007). However, political developments since 2001 have created a crisis for Danish wind power (see Toke 2002). This period has also seen greater interaction between domestic and international forces.
Acute exposure to the abused inhalant, isobutyl nitrite, reduced T cell responsiveness and spleen cellularity

Isobutyl nitrite is an inhalant abused principally by male homosexuals. We have reported that subchronic inhalation exposure (45 min/day for 14 days) to 900 ppm isobutyl nitrite was immunosuppressive. In the present study, the effects of acute exposure to the inhalant were examined. Mice were exposed in an inhalation chamber to 900 ppm isobutyl nitrite for 45 min. One day later, spleen cellularity was reduced by 39% without selectively depleting CD4(+) or CD8(+) cells. The numbers of peripheral blood leukocytes and peritoneal cells were also reduced. Following acute inhalation exposure, T cell proliferative responses stimulated with allogeneic cells or anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies were inhibited, while mitogen-induced responses were not affected. Purified T cells exposed to the inhalant also had compromised responses, suggesting a direct effect on T cells. However, the cumulative effects of multiple exposures were necessary to inhibit T-dependent antibody responses or T cell or macrophage cytotoxicity.
Psychosocial vulnerability, physical symptoms and physical impairment after lung and heart–lung transplantation

Abstract Background Many lung and heart–lung transplant recipients experience distressing physical symptoms and elevated physical impairment levels. Although post-transplant complications and secondary illnesses may largely account for these health limitations, patients’ psychosocial well-being may influence them as well. We examined the contribution of psychosocial variables to patients’ experience of physical symptoms and physical impairment. Methods The study consisted of a cross-sectional sample of 50 patients (36 lung, 14 heart–lung) at between 2 and 17 months post-transplant. They were interviewed to assess physical symptoms, current physical impairment and psychosocial well-being in the areas of mental health, sense of mastery and coping. Medical record reviews established the presence of medical complications and secondary illnesses concurrent with the interviews. Descriptive analyses examined the range of symptoms and levels of physical impairment experienced. Bivariate analyses and multivariate linear regression examined relationships between key variables. Results Average number of physical symptoms and level of physical impairment met or exceeded levels reported in other transplant samples. Elevated depressive and anxiety symptoms, a low sense of mastery, and the presence of concurrent medical complications were each associated with increased number of physical symptoms and physical impairment level. When the impact of concurrent medical complications was controlled, recipients with elevated psychologic distress remained significantly more likely to report more physical symptoms and higher physical impairment levels. Conclusions Patients’ physical health status may be influenced by many factors. To the extent that psychologic distress increases the likelihood of perceived physical limitations, timely identification and treatment of distress may help to maximize quality of life after lung and heart–lung transplantation.
The Computer Literacy and Use: The Case of Taiwanese Pre-service Elementary School English Teachers

Language teachers’ computer literacy, beliefs, and attitudes toward computer-assisted language learning (CALL) have been widely discussed (e.g. Aydin, 2013; DelliCarpini, 2012; Hong, 2010). However, scant attention has been given to pre-service teachers in Taiwan. This study aims to address this gap in the literature by focusing on the beliefs and attitudes of pre-service elementary school English teachers in Taiwan. The findings report on thirty participants’ perceived computer knowledge and skills, the frequency of their technology use, and their attitudes toward the integration of computer use in language learning and teaching. Based on the participants’ responses to a survey of computer literacy and use, the results show that the pre-service teachers with different backgrounds and specialties displayed diverse computer literacies. There was an interconnection between the frequency of using a specific computer program and the mastery of the program. A large proportion of the pre-service teachers felt positive about the adoption of technology in their language learning regardless of their various levels of perceived computer literacy. The pedagogical implications, such as the integration of technology use across training sessions and the possibility of using online trainings, are provided. The significance of the study is to offer a picture of Taiwanese pre-service English teachers’ computer knowledge and skills. By utilizing this information, the training of computer assisted language learning could be better tailored to fit teachers’ needs.
Hemodynamic effects of prostaglandin e1 in patients with congenital heart disease and pulmonary hypertension

Investigations were performed to determine whether prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) would cause a favorable change in pulmonary hemodynamics in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease and elevated pulmonary vascular resistance. Twenty-seven patients (ages 0.5 months to 19 years) were studied. PGE1 caused a significant decrease in mean pulmonary artery pressure with 0.05 microgram/kg/min and 0.1 microgram/kg/min infusions (p = .0004). There were significant increases in pulmonary blood flow (p = .0007), and decreases in pulmonary vascular resistance (p = .0001); changes in systemic pressure, resistance, oxygen consumption, and heart rate were minimal. Twenty-three patients underwent heart surgery after catheterization, nineteen of these survived. The four nonsurvivors had higher initial pulmonary resistance (PVR) and less decline in PVR with PGE1 than survivors. This study shows that PGE1 is an effective pulmonary vasodilator in patients with congenital heart disease and elevated pulmonary vascular resistance.
The effect of Gaussian approximations and bit-to-bit error dependence on packet throughput calculations in DS/SSMA radio systems

The method described allows one to analyze the throughput performance of a DS/SSMA packet network in which all packets have signature sequences that are completely random from bit-to-bit. The author models the network as an infinite-user slotted ALOHA system where unsuccessful transmissions are caused entirely by multiple access interference, and gives a procedure for calculating arbitrarily tight upper and lower throughput bounds. For simplification, he works primarily with the lower throughput bound and quantify the performance enhancement gained by incorporating block error correction capability into the packets. Although throughput is increased by using error control, the required redundancy shortens the number of data bits devoted to the message in a fixed-length packet; he takes this into account by calculating a quantity called the 'effective throughput'. >
Provably near-optimal sampling-based algorithms for Stochastic inventory control models

We consider two fundamental stochastic optimization problems that arise in the context of supply-chain models, the single-period newsvendor problem and its multiperiod extension with independent demands. These problems are among the most well-studied stochastic optimization problems in the Operations Research literature. Most commonly, these problems are studied from the perspective that the input probability distributions are given in terms of specific probability distribution functions that are computationally tractable; under this assumption, both problems can be solved efficiently. Unfortunately, this information is unlikely to be available in practice, and hence we make the more realistic assumption that the probability distribution is given by a "black box" from which independent samples can be drawn. We give the first fully polynomial randomized approximation schemes for these two problems in this sampling-based model.Our work provides new insights into the power of two of the most often-used approaches to solving stochastic optimization problems, the sample average approximation (SAA) and stochastic dynamic programming. For the newsvendor problem, we show that by taking a polynomial number of samples and then solving the newsvendor problem with respect to the resulting approximation to the true distribution, we obtain provably near-optimal solution. This significantly extends the class of problems for which the SAA is known to yield a scheme. Finally, we show how to adapt the framework of stochastic dynamic programming to yield an approximation scheme for the multiperiod newsvendor problem with independent demands. We believe that this is an interesting first step towards the goal of providing a mechanism for deriving efficient approximate stochastic dynamic programming methods for a wide range of multistage stochastic optimization problems.
Instructional control of reinforcement learning: A behavioral and neurocomputational investigation

Humans learn how to behave directly through environmental experience and indirectly through rules and instructions. Behavior analytic research has shown that instructions can control behavior, even when such behavior leads to sub-optimal outcomes (Hayes, S. (Ed.). 1989. Rule-governed behavior: cognition, contingencies, and instructional control. Plenum Press.). Here we examine the control of behavior through instructions in a reinforcement learning task known to depend on striatal dopaminergic function. Participants selected between probabilistically reinforced stimuli, and were (incorrectly) told that a specific stimulus had the highest (or lowest) reinforcement probability. Despite experience to the contrary, instructions drove choice behavior. We present neural network simulations that capture the interactions between instruction-driven and reinforcement-driven behavior via two potential neural circuits: one in which the striatum is inaccurately trained by instruction representations coming from prefrontal cortex/hippocampus (PFC/HC), and another in which the striatum learns the environmentally based reinforcement contingencies, but is “overridden” at decision output. Both models capture the core behavioral phenomena but, because they differ fundamentally on what is learned, make distinct predictions for subsequent behavioral and neuroimaging experiments. Finally, we attempt to distinguish between the proposed computational mechanisms governing instructed behavior by fitting a series of abstract “Q-learning” and Bayesian models to subject data. The best-fitting model supports one of the neural models, suggesting the existence of a “confirmation bias” in which the PFC/HC system trains the reinforcement system by amplifying outcomes that are consistent with instructions while diminishing inconsistent outcomes.
Antibody responses to rhesus cytomegalovirus glycoprotein B in naturally infected rhesus macaques.

Rhesus cytomegalovirus (RhCMV) exhibits strong parallels with human CMV (HCMV) in terms of nucleic and amino acid identities, natural history, and mechanisms of persistence and pathogenesis in its natural host, rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). To determine whether this non-human primate model would be useful to assess vaccine strategies for HCMV, host immune responses to RhCMV glycoprotein B (gB) were evaluated in RhCMV-infected monkeys. Total protein extracts were prepared from cells transiently transfected with an expression plasmid for either the full-length gB or a derivative (gBD, 1–680 aa) lacking both the transmembrane domain and cytoplasmic tail. Western blot analysis showed identical reactivity of macaque sera with full-length gB and its derivative gBD, indicating that the immunodominant epitopes of gB are contained in the extracellular portion of the protein. Using gBD extract as a solid phase, a sensitive and specific ELISA was established to characterize gB antibody responses in monkeys acutely and chronically infected with RhCMV. During primary infection (seroconversion), gB-specific antibodies developed concurrently and in parallel with total RhCMV-specific antibodies. However, during chronic infection gB-specific antibody responses were variable. A strong correlation was observed between neutralizing and gB-specific antibody levels in RhCMV-seropositive monkeys. Taken together, the results of this study indicate that, similar to host humoral responses to HCMV gB, anti-gB antibodies are an integral part of humoral immunity to RhCMV infection and probably play an important protective role in limiting the extent of RhCMV infection. Thus, the rhesus macaque model of HCMV infection is relevant for testing gB-based immune therapies.
Single comparator based A/D converter for output voltage sensing in power factor correction rectifiers

This paper proposes a digital output voltage sensing method for power factor correction (PFC) rectifiers that requires only a single analog comparator and a small amount of digital hardware. Using this method a digital estimation of the output error voltage can be obtained at a rate of twice the line frequency (2f line ) without the use of a traditional analog to digital converter (A/D). The proposed method effectively implements a windowed A/D around the output reference voltage with a window range equal to the magnitude of the ac output voltage ripple. When used in combination with a nonlinear-carrier (NLC) current controller, a power feedforward function is inherently embedded in the operation of the single-comparator A/D (SCA/D), which simplifies the voltage loop design and reduces voltage loop gain variation due to operating power level. Experimental results are reported comparing load transient responses using the SCA/D or a traditional A/D in a digitally controlled 300W boost PFC.
Exercise training enhances flow-induced vasodilation in skeletal muscle resistance arteries of aged rats: role of PGI2 and nitric oxide

Flow-induced vasodilation is attenuated with old age in rat skeletal muscle arterioles. The purpose of this study was to determine whether diminished cyclooxygenase (COX) signaling contributes to t...
Sustaining lifecycle value: Valuable changeability analysis with era simulation

This paper details a method involving a series of metrics and visuals designed to assist in the determination of a single design or set of designs' valuable changeability in the era domain of Epoch-Era Analysis (EEA). A brief introduction to the necessary concepts of EEA is included, with references for further information. Examples are provided in the form of a partial case study of a potential orbit-realigning space tug system. The method is shown to effectively distinguish the lifecycle value of designs of interest, quantify the value and frequency of use for the various change mechanisms, and offer a value for the tradeoff between initial costs and lifetime returns associated with including change mechanisms. Reference [8] is a companion paper (recommended to be read first), detailing additional metrics and methods used to value system changeability in the multi-epoch domain. Multi-epoch analysis is best suited for understanding the performance of systems across the space of potential future uncertainties when considering their ability to change design; era analysis uncovers additional time-dependent information related to lifetime value and applied change mechanism usage.
Correlative Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis, Light Microscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, and X-ray Microanalysis for Qualitative and Quantitative Detection of Colloidal Gold Spheres in Biological Specimens

: Colloidal gold, conjugated to ligands or antibodies, is routinely used as a label for the detection of cell structures by light (LM) and electron microscopy (EM). To date, several methods to count the number of colloidal gold labels have been employed with limited success. Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA), a physical method for the analysis of the elemental composition of materials, can be used to provide a quantitative index of gold accumulation in bulk specimens. Given that gold is not naturally found in biological specimens in any substantial amount and that colloidal gold and ligand conjugates can be prepared to yield uniform bead sizes, the amount of label can be calculated in bulk biological samples by INAA. Here we describe the use of INAA, LM, transmission EM, and X-ray microanalysis (EDX) in a model to determine both distribution (localization) and amount of colloidal gold at the organ, tissue, cellular, and ultrastructural levels in whole animal systems following administration. In addition, the sensitivity for gold in biological specimens by INAA is compared with that of inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The correlative use of INAA, LM, TEM, and EDX can be useful, for example, in the quantitative and qualitative tracking of various labeled molecular species following administration in vivo.
The Need for Biological Outcomes to Complement Self-Report in Adolescent Research

* Abbreviations: HIV — : human immunodeficiency virus PSA — : prostate-specific antigen STD — : sexually transmitted disease Yc-PCR — : Y-chromosome polymerase chain reaction Adolescents’ self-reported health behaviors inform medical care and serve as primary intervention outcome measures. Strategies to bolster the validity and reliability of self-report combined with objective biological markers of behavior are urgently needed. We illustrate such strategies within the context of adolescent sexual health research. Research that informs human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted disease (STD) prevention efforts and public health policy involves many challenges. One key challenge is the accurate measurement of HIV risk behaviors, particularly sexual behaviors. Adolescent HIV risk reduction intervention trials have relied mainly on outcomes measured via participants’ self-reports of past behavior to evaluate programmatic efficacy. Few trials have complemented participant self-report with biological measures of sexual behaviors (eg, laboratory-confirmed STDs). Indeed, of the 20 US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention evidence-based interventions for adolescents, only 4 have included biological outcomes as trial end points in addition to self-reported measures.1 Although adolescents’ self-reported behaviors have been the most widely measured trial end points, the accuracy of self-report data may be affected by myriad factors, including the cognitive demands of recalling past behaviors and motivational biases that can lead adolescents to misreport behavior.2 Furthermore, inconsistencies between self-reported sexual behaviors and biological end points raise questions about the validity of relying solely on self-report to evaluate the efficacy of HIV risk reduction interventions. Thus, a need exists to both improve the validity of self-report and to integrate biological markers of sexual risk behaviors into future adolescent HIV risk reduction interventions. Motivational biases may result in distortion of self-reported past behaviors to avoid shame or embarrassment or to appear in a more favorable light. … Address correspondence to Jennifer L. Brown, PhD, Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, MS 2051, Lubbock, TX 79409-2051. E-mail: jennifer.brown{at}ttu.edu
Solid state coordination chemistry of the copper(ii)-terpyridine/oxovanadium organophosphonate system: hydrothermal syntheses, structural characterization and magnetic properties.

The hydrothermal reactions of CuSO4·5H2O, Na3VO4, 2,2′:6′:2″-terpyridine (terpy), and the appropriate organophosphonate ligand yield a series of materials of the Cu(II)-terpy/oxovanadium organophosphonate family. The complexes exhibit distinct structures spanning one-, two- and three-dimensions and exhibiting diverse oxovanadium building blocks. Thus, [{Cu(terpy)}(V2O4)(O3PPh)(HO3PPh)2] (1) is one-dimensional and constructed from binuclear units of corner-sharing V(V) square pyramids. While [{Cu(terpy)}VO(O3PCH2PO3)] (2), [{Cu(terpy)}2(V4O10)(O3PCH2CH2PO3)] (3), and [{Cu(terpy)}(V2O4){O3P(CH2)3PO3}]·2.5H2O (4·2.5H2O) are similarly one-dimensional, the V/O structural components consist of isolated V(IV) square pyramids, tetranuclear V(V) units of three tetrahedra and one square pyramid in a corner-sharing arrangement, and isolated V(V) tetrahedra and square pyramids, respectively. The second propylenediphosphonate derivative, [{Cu(terpy)}(V2O4){O3P(CH2)3PO3}] (5) is three-dimensional and exhibits isolated V(V) tetrahedra as the vanadate component. The two-dimensional structure of [{Cu(terpy)(H2O)}(V3O6){O3P(CH2)4PO3}] (6) is mixed valence with isolated V(IV) square pyramids and binuclear units of corner-sharing V(V) tetrahedra providing the V/O substructures.
Adaptive antenna design considerations for satellite communication antennas

Satellite communication systems must often be designed to operate in the presence of interfering signal sources. Conventionally, bandspreading via signal modulation is often used to combat such unwanted interference. Recently, interest has been focused on supplementing the conventional interference reduction achieved via bandspreading by using antenna radiation pattern shaping achievable with adaptive nulling antennas. Because of the well defined field of view of the earth seen by a satellite at geosynchronous altitude (i.e. a ± 9° cone angle) and the relatively `clean' multipath environment seen by the high-gain `earth-looking' antennas which must be used (as compared with low-gain adaptive antennas on aircraft, or antennas located in a terrestrial environment), it is possible to determine several useful trends unique to this class of adaptive antenna systems. The paper addresses the general considerations inherent in choosing the fundamental antenna and adaptive processor design parameters relative to geosynchronous satellite adaptive systems. The following topics are developed in detail: (a) Choice of antenna types: Phased array against the multiple beam antenna (b) Nulling resolution: Minimum tolerable separation between interference and signal (user) sources (c) Nulling bandwidth: Frequency-independent weighting against frequency-dependent weighting (for example tapped delay lines) (d) Factors affecting the performance of adaptive antenna systems: Channel tracking errors, weighting circuit imperfections etc.
Institutional Cooperation Between Central Banks and the Statistical Offices for Producing Macroeconomic Statistics

1. This paper discusses different purposes and forms of collaboration between central banks and national statistical agencies in the area of macroeconomic statistics. Cooperation agreements may serve to clarity a division of labor in producing data. Alternatively, agreements may concern the provision of specialized data to the central bank for policy purposes. Cooperation may also be motivated to help national statistical agencies develop statistical capacity, particularly in countries with relatively weak national statistical agencies. In many countries, cooperation between central banks and statistical offices has evolved from informal to more formal arrangements. The paper illustrates formalized cooperation agreements. Reasons for formal cooperation and sources of information 2. Formal cooperation between central banks and national statistical offices can have different purposes. Table 1 presents an overview of various types of contracts and their main features. The information included in this table builds on a larger study (Dziobek and Tanase, 2007 forthcoming), which brings together results of a survey and experiences from the Fund’s technical assistance work with member countries. The larger study presents country case studies of the various types of cooperation shown in this table. 3. When both central banks and national statistical agencies play a role in producing certain statistics, as is often the case for external sector statistics, cooperation agreements can serve to clarify the division of labor. An example of this is the memorandum of understanding between the European Central Bank and Eurostat. Generally, the aim is to specify what data are to be made available by each party and on what schedule, thus contributing to a smoother work process. They take on an added dimension when a country is
Claiming Rights, Righting Wrongs: Educating Students for Human Rights

In the spirit of Gayatri Spivak (2004), whose article inspired the title of this lecture, educating for human rights requires helping our students to develop their knowledge, values, and skills so that they live their lives and professionally practice in ways that work to build a culture of human rights, in ways that enable their clients to claim their full human rights and to right the wrongs of human rights violations that they have experienced. For knowledge related to human rights, the first place to turn is the United Nations Human Rights Web page (2011) and the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (United Nations, 1948). The Universal Declaration is an aspirational document. It lays out the goals to which human rights work ought to aspire. Aspirational work is nurtured by inspiration, and so let’s begin with an inspiration— from Eleanor Roosevelt. She was the U.S. representative to the Drafting Committee for the declaration. At the 10th anniversary of the signing of that declaration, she asserted that the destiny of human rights is in the hands of all our citizens in all our communities:
Louis Kahn’s Silent Space of Critique in Tehran, 1973–74

Locating modernity’s unfinished project in the historical matrix of Iran, Louis Kahn’s Silent Space of Critique in Tehran, 1973–74 examines Louis Kahn’s master plan for a new civic center in Tehran. The 1970s witnessed a period of contention between political and cultural visions of modernity in Iran: as the shah’s state fabricated progress through a series of development plans, the queen’s reformist second court sponsored cultural and preservationist projects. This strife over modernity in Iran was reflected in Kahn’s design as form, space, and program. Shima Mohajeri shows that Kahn’s layout for a modern public space in Tehran concerned the development of an ethical attitude toward architectural modernity in a non-Western context as well as constituted a silent resistance to Iran’s sociopolitical reality and its spaces of representation.
Overview from a Systems Perspective

The interactions between space systems and their orbital environments are discussed in overview. Attention is focussed on those environment factors appropriate to earth orbital vehicles. Ways in which space systems interact with their environment and effects on system performance and lifetime are described. Approaches to hazard assessment and protection are noted.
Germline PARP4 mutations in patients with primary thyroid and breast cancers

Germline mutations in the PTEN gene, which cause Cowden syndrome, are known to be one of the genetic factors for primary thyroid and breast cancers; however, PTEN mutations are found in only a small subset of research participants with non-syndrome breast and thyroid cancers. In this study, we aimed to identify germline variants that may be related to genetic risk of primary thyroid and breast cancers. Genomic DNAs extracted from peripheral blood of 14 PTEN WT female research participants with primary thyroid and breast cancers were analyzed by whole-exome sequencing. Gene-based case-control association analysis using the information of 406 Europeans obtained from the 1000 Genomes Project database identified 34 genes possibly associated with the phenotype with P < 1.0 × 10(-3). Among them, rare variants in the PARP4 gene were detected at significant high frequency (odds ratio = 5.2; P = 1.0 × 10(-5)). The variants, G496V and T1170I, were found in six of the 14 study participants (43%) while their frequencies were only 0.5% in controls. Functional analysis using HCC1143 cell line showed that knockdown of PARP4 with siRNA significantly enhanced the cell proliferation, compared with the cells transfected with siControl (P = 0.02). Kaplan-Meier analysis using Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), European Genome-phenome Archive (EGA) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets showed poor relapse-free survival (P < 0.001, Hazard ratio 1.27) and overall survival (P = 0.006, Hazard ratio 1.41) in a PARP4 low-expression group, suggesting that PARP4 may function as a tumor suppressor. In conclusion, we identified PARP4 as a possible susceptibility gene of primary thyroid and breast cancer.
Evaluation of Soil Data for Closure of Surface Impoundments

A procedure for evaluating soil data for closure of surface impoundments is presented and illustrated with data from an actual case study. Steps in the methodology are: design of soil sampling program; evaluation of data, and determination of the extent of contamination. The methodology uses geostatistics including variogram analysis, and point, block, and indicator kriging. The decision analysis, which is the final step in the methodology, is general enough to be adapted to different proposed regulatory criteria.
Dilthey on the unity of science

ABSTRACTThis paper elaborates a conception of the unity of science that emerges in the context of Dilthey’s well-known treatment of the distinction between the Naturwissenschaften and the Geisteswissenschaften. Dilthey’s account of the epistemological foundations of the Geisteswissenschaften presupposes, this paper argues, their continuity with the natural sciences. The unity of the two domains has both a psychological and a biological basis. Whereas the psychological functions at work in scientific thinking, the articulation of which is the task of Dilthey’s proposed science of ‘descriptive and analytic psychology’, are common to both kinds of sciences, their ontological ground consists in the embodied and environmentally situated context of human beings, and is expressed in Dilthey’s central concept of ‘life’. Accordingly, this paper develops the shared biopsychological foundations of the epistemology of the natural and human sciences from Dilthey’s writings in the 1880s and 1890s. Dilthey’s conception ...
Increased Collection of Tobacco Budworm by Electric Grid Traps as Compared with Blacklight and Sticky Traps

Electric grid traps collected 101 times more Heliothis virescens (F.) moths than unbaited blacklight traps, 4.4 times more than blacklight traps baited with 10 virgin female moths, and 9.0 times more than sticky traps. Grid traps with the bait placed inside the grid element caught 7.8 times more males than did the same traps with bait placed about 6 inches to one side of the grid element.
Distinct Contributions of Enzymic Functional Groups to the 2',3'-Cyclic Phosphodiesterase, 3'-Phosphate Guanylylation, and 3'-ppG/5'-OH Ligation Steps of the Escherichia coli RtcB Nucleic Acid Splicing Pathway

ABSTRACT Escherichia coli RtcB is a founding member of a family of manganese-dependent RNA repair enzymes that join RNA 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate (RNA>p) or RNA 3′-phosphate (RNAp) ends to 5′-OH RNA (HORNA) ends in a multistep pathway whereby RtcB (i) hydrolyzes RNA>p to RNAp, (ii) transfers GMP from GTP to RNAp to form to RNAppG, and (iii) directs the attack of 5′-OH on RNAppG to form a 3′-5′ phosphodiester splice junction. The crystal structure of the homologous archaeal RtcB enzyme revealed an active site with two closely spaced manganese ions, Mn1 and Mn2, that interact with the GTP phosphates. By studying the reactions of wild-type E. coli RtcB and RtcB alanine mutants with 3′-phosphate-, 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate-, and 3′-ppG-terminated substrates, we found that enzymic constituents of the two metal coordination complexes (Cys78, His185, and His281 for Mn1 and Asp75, Cys78, and His168 for Mn2 in E. coli RtcB) play distinct catalytic roles. For example, whereas the C78A mutation abolished all steps assayed, the D75A mutation allowed cyclic phosphodiester hydrolysis but crippled 3′-phosphate guanylylation, and the H281A mutant was impaired in overall HORNAp and HORNA>p ligation but was able to seal a preguanylylated substrate. The archaeal counterpart of E. coli RtcB Arg189 coordinates a sulfate anion construed to mimic the position of an RNA phosphate. We propose that Arg189 coordinates a phosphodiester at the 5′-OH end, based on our findings that the R189A mutation slowed the step of RNAppG/HORNA sealing by a factor of 200 compared to that with wild-type RtcB while decreasing the rate of RNAppG formation by only 3-fold. IMPORTANCE RtcB enzymes comprise a widely distributed family of manganese- and GTP-dependent RNA repair enzymes that ligate 2′,3′-cyclic phosphate ends to 5′-OH ends via RNA 3′-phosphate and RNA(3′)pp(5′)G intermediates. The RtcB active site includes two adjacent manganese ions that engage the GTP phosphates. Alanine scanning of Escherichia coli RtcB reveals distinct contributions of metal-binding residues Cys78, Asp75, and His281 at different steps of the RtcB pathway. The RNA contacts of RtcB are uncharted. Mutagenesis implicates Arg189 in engaging the 5′-OH RNA end.
Close encounters of many kinds: Fos-Jun interactions that mediate transcription regulatory specificity

Fos and Jun family proteins regulate the expression of a myriad of genes in a variety of tissues and cell types. This functional versatility emerges from their interactions with related bZIP proteins and with structurally unrelated transcription factors. These interactions at composite regulatory elements produce nucleoprotein complexes with high sequence-specificity and regulatory selectivity. Several general principles including binding cooperativity and conformational adaptability have emerged from studies of regulatory complexes containing Fos-Jun family proteins. The structural properties of Fos-Jun family proteins including opposite orientations of heterodimer binding and the ability to bend DNA can contribute to the assembly and functions of such complexes. The cooperative recruitment of transcription factors, coactivators and chromatin remodeling factors to promoter and enhancer regions generates multiprotein transcription regulatory complexes with cell- and stimulus-specific transcriptional activities. The gene-specific architecture of these complexes can mediate the selective control of transcriptional activity.
A theoretical study on third generation photovoltaic technology: Dye-sensitized solar cells

A numerical model has been developed to investigate the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) under extreme weather conditions. The main purpose of this work is to simulate the temperature influen ce on the overall efficiency of DSSCs with a consideration of the voltage loss at titanium dioxide (TiO 2)/ transparent conductive oxide (TCO) interface. Appropriate simulation input parameters are chosen to reflect the extreme winter weather condit ions of Fargo, North Dakota. It is found that at the temperature 250 K (ca. -20 °C), the maximum power output is about 23 W/m 2 which is about 50% lower than the value at 340 K (c a. 70 °C). The study reveals that low temperature conditions h ave serious detrimental effects on the DSSCs' performance.
National findings regarding health IT use and participation in health care delivery reform programs among office-based physicians.

Objective: Our objective was to characterize physicians’ participation in delivery and payment reform programs over time and describe how participants in these programs were using health information technology (IT) to coordinate care, engage patients, manage patient populations, and improve quality. Materials and Methods: A nationally representative cohort of physicians was surveyed in 2012 (unweighted N = 2567) and 2013 (unweighted N = 2399). Regression analyses used those survey responses to identify associations between health IT use and participation in and attrition from patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs), accountable care organizations (ACOs), and pay-for-performance programs (P4Ps). Results: In 2013, 45% of physicians participated in PCMHs, ACOs, or P4Ps. While participation in each program increased ( P < .05) between 2012 and 2013, program attrition ranged from 31–40%. Health IT use was associated with greater program participation (RR = 1.07–1.16). PCMH, ACO, and P4P participants were more likely than nonparticipants to perform quality improvement and patient engagement activities electronically (RR = 1.09–1.14); only ACO participants were more likely to share information electronically (RR = 1.07–1.09). Discussion: Participation in delivery and payment reform programs increased between 2012 and 2013. Participating physicians were more likely to use health IT. There was significant attrition from and switching between PCMHs, ACOs, and P4Ps. Conclusion: This work provides the basis for understanding physician participation in and attrition from delivery and payment reform programs, as well as how health IT was used to support those programs. Understanding health IT use by program participants may help to identify factors enabling a smooth transition to alternative payment models.