cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Explicit capacity achieving codes for defective memories

The problem of constructing error correcting codes for defective memories, where some of the cells are defected and unable to switch their states, is considered. This is a classical problem in coding theory which has recently received renewed attention due to application to new technologies for non-volatile memories such as phase change memories. We show how the state of the art capacity achieving codes, in combination with a coset coding and another error correcting code, can be used in order to asymptotically achieve the capacity of the binary defective memory. The resulting schemes are explicit, have polynomial time encoder and quasilinear time decoder. The model is further generalized by considering erasures on top of the defective cells. We propose the partitioned polar codes for this model and prove that they achieve the capacity.
Lymphohistiocytic and Granulomatous Dermatitis

Reactive histiocytic infiltrates presenting in the skin are often admixed with variable collection of lymphocytes, just as certain cutaneous lymphomas may contain histiocytic clusters or frank granulomas. In addition, some lymphohistiocytic dermatitides may be associated with lymphadenopathy and systemic symptoms, frequently raising a concern for lymphoma. Familiarity with the clinical and histologic features delineating reactive from malignant lymphohistiocytic disorders is therefore important to prevent misdiagnosis and subsequent wrong management. In this chapter, the cutaneous lesions of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease, Rosai-Dorfman disease, sarcoidosis, and granuloma annulare are presented with emphasis on salient clinical presentations, histologic features, immunophenotypes, and differential diagnoses. While the clinical appearance of these lesions may overlap, characteristic microscopic findings allow histopathologic distinction. In addition, their possible etiologic factors, genetic predisposition, clinical associations, and natural courses are also discussed.
First record of the jumping spider genus Bavia Simon, 1877 from India, with the description of a new species

The tropical jumping spider genus Bavia was erected by Simon (1877) to include only the type species B. aericeps Simon, 1877, a relatively large, foliage-dwelling, plurident spider with broad carapace, long, tubular abdomen and longest and robust legs I (Murphy & Murphy 2000). To date, twenty species have been catalogued from Southeast Asia, Australia and Madagascar, of which six are known only from males, five only from females and nine are known from both sexes (World Spider Catalog 2015).
Meta-Systems: An Approach Combining Parallel Processing and Heterogeneous Distributed Computing Systems

Large meta-systems comprised of a variety of interconnected high-performance architectures are becoming available to researchers. To fully exploit these new systems software support must be provided that is easy to use, supports large degrees of parallelism in applications code, and manages the complexity of the underlying physical architecture for the user, This paper describes our approach to constructing and exploiting meta-systems. Our approach inherits features of earlier work on parallel processing systems and heterogeneous distributed computing systems. In particular, we build on Mentat, an object-oriented parallel processing system developed at the University of Virginia that provides large amounts of easy-to-use parallelism for MIMD architectures.'
ZHAMANSHIN AND AOUELLOUL: CRATERS PRODUCED BY IMPACT OF TEKTITE‐LIKE GLASSES?

It is shown that the enhanced abundance of siderophile elements and chromium in tektite-like glasses from the two impact craters of Zhamanshin and Aouelloul cannot be explained as a result of contamination of the country rock by meteorites nor, probably, comets. The pattern is, however, like that found in certain Australasian tektites, and in Ivory Coast tektites. It is concluded, in agreement with earlier suggestions by Campbell-Smith and Hey, that these craters were formed by the impact of large masses of tektite-like glass, of which the glasses which were studied are fragments. It follows that it is necessary, in considering an impact crater, to bear in mind that the projectile may have been a glass.
The resting cysts of modern marine dinoflagellates and their palaeontological significance

Abstract Study of resting cysts produced by 25 species of thecate marine dinoflagellates belonging to five genera (Gonyaulax, Protoceratium, Peridinium, Diplopsalis, and Diplopsalopsis) stresses the fact that these cysts are often identically with or phylogenetically closely related to certain Tertiary and Quaternary hystrichospheres and fossil dinoflagellates. Knowledge of these resting spores and their parental phases immediately creates a better understanding of the fossil record by facilitating comparisons with modern plankton. It also emphasizes outstanding problems such as the development or absence of the inner capsule, the genotypic nature of the dinoflagellate “species” and their cysts and how they are to be classified. Some of these problems are discussed briefly.
Murine Leukemia Virus R Peptide Inhibits Influenza Virus Hemagglutinin-Induced Membrane Fusion

The cytoplasmic tail of the murine leukemia virus (MuLV) envelope (Env) protein is known to play an important role in regulating viral fusion activity. Upon removal of the C-terminal 16 amino acids, designated as the R peptide, the fusion activity of the Env protein is activated. To extend our understanding of the inhibitory effect of the R peptide and investigate the specificity of inhibition, we constructed chimeric influenza virus-MuLV hemagglutinin (HA) genes. The influenza virus HA protein is the best-studied membrane fusion model, and we investigated the fusion activities of the chimeric HA proteins. We compared constructs in which the coding sequence for the cytoplasmic tail of the influenza virus HA protein was replaced by that of the wild-type or mutant MuLV Env protein or in which the cytoplasmic tail sequence of the MuLV Env protein was added to the HA cytoplasmic domain. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and Western blot analysis showed that all chimeric HA proteins were effectively expressed on the cell surface and cleaved by trypsin. In BHK21 cells, the wild-type HA protein had a significant ability after trypsin cleavage to induce syncytium formation at pH 5.1; however, neither the chimeric HA protein with the full-length cytoplasmic tail of MuLV Env nor the full-length HA protein followed by the R peptide showed any syncytium formation. When the R peptide was truncated or mutated, the fusion activity was partially recovered in the chimeric HA proteins. A low-pH conformational-change assay showed that similar conformational changes occurred for the wild-type and chimeric HA proteins. All chimeric HA proteins were capable of promoting hemifusion and small fusion pore formation, as shown by a dye redistribution assay. These results indicate that the R peptide of the MuLV Env protein has a sequence-dependent inhibitory effect on influenza virus HA protein-induced membrane fusion and that the inhibitory effect occurs at a late stage in fusion pore enlargement.
A clear, amine-containing poly(vinyl chloride) membrane for in situ optical detection of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene

A membrane has been developed for the direct determination of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in natural waters at levels as low as 10 ng ml−1. A typical membrane is prepared by dissolving the following in tetrahydrofuran: 0.5 g of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), 0.2 ml of dioctyl phthalate to serve as a plasticizer and 0.12 ml of Jeffamine T403, a polyoxyethyleneamine which reacts with TNT to produce a colored product. The membrane is formed by casting the solution into a glass Petri dish with a diameter of 8 cm and allowing the solvent to evaporate slowly. Trace amounts of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB), 2,4,5-trinitrotoluene (2,4,5-TNT) and N-picryl-N-methylnitramine (tetryl) also react with the membrane to produce a reddish brown color, but their visible absorption spectra differ from that of TNT. The membranes remain clear indefinitely in water. After storage for 80 days in air in a sealed container, over 80% of the amine remains in the membranes. After exposure to water for 10 days, over 40% of the amine remains in the membranes, which continue to respond to TNT. The membrane can be used to determine TNT in untreated water samples of pH 6–9. Recoveries of 0.1–4.0 mg l−1 of TNT from spiked groundwater ranged from 95 to 105%. Results by direct analysis of turbid water samples agreed with those obtained by high-performance liquid chromatography.
Tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccination among healthcare personnel-United States, 2011.

Abstract Background Health-care personnel (HCP) are at risk for exposure to and possible transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases. Receiving recommended vaccines is an essential prevention practice for HCP to protect themselves and their patients. The tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap) was recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for HCP in 2006 for protection against pertussis. We assessed the recent compliance of U.S. HCP in receiving Tdap vaccination. Methods To estimate Tdap vaccination coverage among HCP, we analyzed data from the 2011 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). Multivariable logistic regression and predictive marginal models were performed to identify factors independently associated with vaccination among HCP. Results Overall, Tdap vaccination coverage was 26.9% among HCP aged 18–64 years (95% confidence interval (CI) = 24.3%, 29.7%), which was significantly higher compared with non-HCP among the same age group (11.1%; 10.5–11.8%). Overall, vaccination coverage was significantly higher among physicians (41.5%) compared with nurses (36.5%) and other types of HCP (range 11.7–29.9%). Vaccination coverage was significantly higher among HCP aged 18–49 years compared with those 50–64 years (30.0% vs. 19.2%, respectively). Characteristics independently associated with an increased likelihood of Tdap vaccination among HCP were: younger age, higher education, living in the western United States, being hospitalized within past year, having a place for routine health care in clinic or health center, and receipt of influenza vaccination in the previous year. Marital status of widowed, divorced, or separated was independently associated with a decreased likelihood of Tdap vaccination among HCP. Conclusions By 2011, Tdap vaccination coverage was only 26.9% among HCP. Vaccination coverage varied widely by types of HCP and demographic characteristics. Emphasizing the benefits of HCP vaccination for staff and patients, providing vaccinations in the workplace and other non-traditional settings, and providing Tdap at no charge may help increase Tdap vaccination among HCP in all health-care settings.
Impacts of changing food webs in Lake Ontario: Implications of dietary fatty acids on growth of Alewives

Declines in the abundance and condition of Great Lakes Alewives have been reported periodically during the last two decades, and the reasons for these declines remain unclear. To better understand how food web changes may influence Alewife growth and Wisconsin growth model predictions, we fed Alewives isocaloric diets high in omega-6 fatty acids (corn oil) or high in omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil). Alewives were fed the experimental diets at either 1% (“low ration”) or 3% (“high ration”) of their wet body weight per day. After six weeks, Alewives maintained on the high ration diets were significantly larger than those fed the low ration diets. Moreover, Alewives given the high ration fish oil diet were significantly larger than those maintained on the high ration corn oil diet after six weeks of growth. Body lipid, energy density and total body energy of Alewives on the high ration diets were significantly higher than those fed the low ration diets, and total body energy was significantly higher in Alewiv...
LARGE, WEAKLY SATURATING THIRD-ORDER NONLINEAR SUSCEPTIBILITIES IN SEMIMETALS AND NARROW-GAP SEMICONDUCTORS

We review recent experimental and theoretical work on optical nonlinearities in semimetals and narrow-gap semiconductors. A strong nonlinear response due to optical modulation of the free carrier susceptibility is seen to be a common feature of these materials, with large third-order nonlinear susceptibilities being reported for Hg1−xCdxTe, Hg1−xMnxTe, Hg-based superlattices, α-Sn1−xGex, Pb1−xSnxSe, and Bi1−xSbx. Effects of differences in the various band structures are discussed for nonlinearities due to nonparabolicity, thermal carrier generation, and nonequilibrium carrier generation. Mechanisms leading to either partial or severe saturation are also considered. Optimized nonlinearities for the various mechanisms and materials are critically compared, and promising future directions for the field are suggested.
Socioeconomic status and use of family planning among Ghanaian government workers

The low utilization of family planning methods in Ghana, and by inference in much of Africa, is explained by reference to traditional sociocultural values held by males. A LISREL model is tested using data collected from educated males working in the Ghanaian government. Among the findings are that lack of couple communication, segregated conjugal role relationships, and male-dominated decision-making are all significant predictors of non-use of family planning methods (pronatalist attitude is not). Possession of knowledge of family planning among Ghanaian males alone is unlikely to initiate use of family planning methods. Additional sociodemographic and modernization findings are reported.
Performance on perceptual word identification is mediated by discrete states.

We contrast predictions from discrete-state models of all-or-none information loss with signal-detection models of graded strength for the identification of briefly flashed English words. Previous assessments have focused on whether ROC curves are straight or not, which is a test of a discrete-state model where detection leads to the highest confidence response with certainty. We along with many others argue this certainty assumption is too constraining, and, consequently, the straight-line ROC test is too stringent. Instead, we assess a core property of discrete-state models, conditional independence, where the pattern of responses depends only on which state is entered. The conditional independence property implies that confidence ratings are a mixture of detect and guess state responses, and that stimulus strength factors, the duration of the flashed word in this report, affect only the probability of entering a state and not responses conditional on a state. To assess this mixture property, 50 participants saw words presented briefly on a computer screen at three variable flash durations followed by either a two-alternative confidence ratings task or a yes–no confidence ratings task. Comparable discrete-state and signal-detection models were fit to the data for each participant and task. The discrete-state models outperformed the signal detection models for 90 % of participants in the two-alternative task and for 68 % of participants in the yes–no task. We conclude discrete-state models are viable for predicting performance across stimulus conditions in a perceptual word identification task.
Body position and obstructive sleep apnea in 8-12-month-old infants.

Summary Aim To determine the association between body position and obstructive events during sleep as determined by polysomnography (PSG) in infants of ages 8–12 months with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods Consecutive nocturnal polysomnograms (NPSGs) of 50 children ages 8–12 months old referred to the sleep disorders center between 1 January 2003 and 1 June 2006 for possible sleep-disordered breathing were retrospectively reviewed. Data on total obstructive apnea index (AI), total obstructive apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), AI by body position, AHI by body position, rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM sleep AHI and REM and non-REM AI were recorded. Results The mean age was 9.5 ± 1.9 S.D. months and 46% of the patients were females. There were no significant differences between the mean non-supine AHI (2.0 ± 5.1) and supine AHI (2.5 ± 5.4), p = 0.63. When comparing specific body positions, there were also no significant differences between the mean supine AHI (2.5 ± 5.4), prone AHI (2.9 ± 7.3), left-lateral decubitus AHI (1.1 ± 6.1), or the right-lateral decubitus AHI (2.5 ± 7.6), p = 0.71. Additionally, there were also no significant differences between the mean non-supine AI (0.7 ± 2.9) and supine AI (1.4 ± 3.0), p = 0.23, and no differences between the supine AI (0.7 ± 2.9), prone AI (1.0 ± 2.9), left-lateral decubitus AI (0.3 ± 2.9) or the right-lateral decubitus AI (1.1 ± 3.0), p = 0.44. Children spent an average of 50% of their total sleep time supine. OSA was significantly worse in REM sleep as compared to non-REM sleep (REM AHI 4.3 ± 7.3 versus non-REM AHI 1.4 ± 3.9, p = 0.015; REM AI 5.1 ± 4.9 versus non-REM AI 1.5 ± 4.9, p Conclusions There was no significant effect of body position on sleep-disordered breathing in 8–12 months old infants, although REM sleep represented a significant risk factor for OSA.
High-light effects on CO2 fixation gradients across leaves

Chlorophyll fluorescence and internal patterns of 14 CO 2 fixation were measured in sun and shade leaves of spinach after treatment with various light intensities. When sun leaves were irradiated with 2000 μmol m -2 s -1 for 2h, F v /F M decreased by about 15%, but 14 CO 2 fixation was unaffected, whereas shade leaves exhibited a 21% decrease in F V /F M and a 25% decrease in 14 CO 2 fixation. Irradiation of sun and shade leaves with 4000 μmol m -2 s -1 for 4 h decreased F V /F M by 30% in sun leaves and 40% in shade leaves, while total 14 CO 2 fixation decreased by 41% in sun leaves and 55% in shade leaves. After light treatment, gradients of CO 2 fixation across leaves were determined by measuring 14 CO 2 fixed in paradermal leaf sections after a 10s pulse of 14 CO 2 . Gradients of 14 CO 2 fixation in control sun and shade leaves were identified when expressed on a relative basis and normalized for leaf depth. Treatment of leaves with 2000 μmol PAR m -2 s -1 for 2h did not alter patterns of carbon fixation across sun leaves, but slightly altered the pattern in shade leaves. In contrast, treatment of sun and shade leaves with 4000 μmol m -2 s -1 for 4h decreased carbon fixation more in the palisade mesophyll cells than in the spongy mesophyll cells of sun and shade leaves, and fixation in medial tissue of shade leaves was dramatically decreased compared to the adaxial and abaxial tissue. The interaction between leaf anatomy and biochemical parameters involved in tolerance to photoinhibition in spinach is discussed.
Pursuing bariatric surgery in an urban area: Gender and racial disparities and risk for psychiatric symptoms.

Summary Background Bariatric surgery is effective for weight loss; however, only a small percentage of those who qualify choose to pursue it. Additionally, although psychiatric symptoms appear to be common among candidates, the risk factors for symptoms are not known. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the characteristics of those who are pursuing bariatric surgery in an urban area, whether demographic disparities continue to exist, and identify characteristics of those who may be at higher risk for experiencing psychiatric symptoms. Methods There were 424 bariatric candidates who completed a required psychological evaluation prior to bariatric surgery. Results and conclusions Bariatric surgery candidates tended to be middle-aged, Caucasian females, which was unexpected when compared to the rates of obesity among these groups. Therefore, it appears that there are disparities in who chooses to seek out bariatric surgery compared to those who may qualify due to their obesity status. Cultural factors may play a role in why males and African Americans seek out bariatric surgery less frequently. Psychiatric symptoms among candidates are also common, with depression symptoms increasing with age and BMI. Perhaps the compounding effects of medical comorbidities over time are contributing to greater depressive symptoms in the older patients. Findings from this study suggest that we may need to explore ways of encouraging younger patients, males, and ethnic minorities to pursue bariatric surgery to increase weight loss success and decrease medical comorbidities.
Rotationally and orbitally adiabatic basis sets for electron-molecule scattering

Abstract We have applied the close coupling method with conventional, l -dominant, and adiabatic basis functions to electron-molecule elastic scattering and rotational excitation. We show that accurate results may be obtained with small adiabatic basis sets.
The Strategic Data Project's Strategic Performance Indicators

Abstract Strategic Performance Indicators (SPIs) are summary measures derived from parallel, descriptive analyses conducted across educational agencies. The SPIs are designed to inform agency management and efforts to improve student outcomes. We developed the SPIs to reveal patterns common across partner agencies, to highlight exceptions to those patterns, and to provide tools for educational agencies to understand their own successes and challenges. We present two examples of SPI briefs and highlight specific steps partner agencies have taken in response to such analyses. Our goal is that, with data, the SPIs will catalyze educational agencies to engage in deep investigation. If educational systems must rely on academic researchers to make progress on core management challenges, progress will be slow. The ability to use and analyze administrative data must be integrated into the everyday management of educational systems, much as it has been in many other sectors of the modern economy.
Studies of reactions of small titanium oxide cluster cations toward oxygen at thermal energies

Abstract Reactions of small titanium oxide cluster cations with oxygen are studied using a selected-ion drift tube operated at thermal energies, in conjunction with a laser vaporization source. Clusters of most compositions are observed to react rapidly with oxygen in the drift tube reactor, but a few of them display very inert behavior. The studies of size-selected oxide clusters indicate that the inert clusters belong to two series, namely, (TiO 2 ) + n (n ⩾ 3) and TiO 3 (TiO 2 ) + m (m ⩾ 1). Interestingly, reactions of the oxygen-poor clusters with the oxygen molecule are seen to yield products containing fewer titanium atoms, while the clusters with higher oxygen-to-titanium ratios undergo attachment of one or two oxygen atoms. The reaction patterns are interpreted in terms of the difference in the bonding structure of the clusters.
Stabilization of HIV Proteinase Dimer by Bound Substrate

Upon the binding of a synthetic nonapeptide substrate, the catalytically active dimeric form of HIV proteinase is strongly stabilized against dissociation into inactive subunits. The dissociation of the ternary Michaelis complex into protein monomers is immeasurably low (apparent dissociation constant in the picomolar range), while the dimer-to-monomer equilibrium dissociation constant at pH 4.7 and at ionic strength 1.0 M is 30.4 +/- 1.6 nM. Consequently, the apparent activity of HIV proteinase depends on the order in which the enzyme and the substrate are added to in vitro assays. Substrate-induced stabilization should be carefully considered in designing kinetic studies of all dissociative retroviral enzymes, the proteinase, the integrase, and the reverse transcriptase.
Trade connections and interest rate linkages among ASEAN, Japan, and the USA: an empirical analysis

In the existing literature, there have been only a limited number of efforts at empirically evaluating the degree of economic connections among ASEAN countries. The present study intends to fill this gap. The study is conducted through an investigation of regional trade connections and interest rate linkages. The results indicate that both the degree of trade interdependence and the interest rate linkages among ASEAN nations are comparable to those among EEC and NAFTA countries. Singapore plays a key role in ASEAN economic relations. Different from EEC and NAFTA, ASEAN appears to be heavily dependent on Japan and the USA, the two super economic powers outside the association.
Impact of primary user activity on the performance of energy-based spectrum sensing in Cognitive Radio systems

Cognitive Radio (CR) is a new concept in wireless communication systems that aims at enabling opportunistic spectrum access (OSA) to licensed frequencies by secondary users (SU). Specifically, CR systems are expected to detect idle periods when licensed spectrum is not used by primary users (PU), to take advantage of them for providing service to SU, and to release them when PU become active. Thus, OSA performance relies on the ability of the SU to accurately detect the PU activity, and this paper examines the relationship between changes in the PU activity and the performance of energy-based spectrum sensing. Analytical expressions for the probabilities of detection and false alarm are derived by explicitly considering the probability that the PU state switches while the SU is sensing the spectrum, and are corroborated with numerical results obtained from simulations.
Incoherent multiple-scattering effects in the production of particles on nuclear targets

We discuss, using the Glauber multiple-scattering formalism, the magnitude of the contributions to particle production cross sections from nuclei at high energies which can be attributed to multiple-inelastic-scattering processes involving a number of nucleons. Of particular interest is the contribution of such processes to the production of particles with high spin or hypercharge, since the beam particle can be "promoted" to these final states as a result of a series of collisions, each involving only a relatively small change in its spin or hyperchange. When we compare these "promotional" production cross sections due to multiple scattering within a nucleus with estimates of the corresponding production cross sections due to multiple scattering within a single nucleon, however, we find that there is no overwhelming practical advantage in going to a nuclear target. The basic reason seems to be that the "thickness" of nuclear matter offered to a beam particle passing through the center of an individual nucleon is not so much smaller in units of mean free paths than that offered by a nucleus.
Engineering tissue from human embryonic stem cells

Recent advances in human embryonic stem cell (hESC) biology now offer an alternative cell source for tissue engineers, as these cells are capable of proliferating indefinitely and differentiating to many clinically relevant cell types. Novel culture methods capable of exerting spatial and temporal control over the stem cell microenvironment allow for more efficient expansion of hESCs, and significant advances have been made toward improving our understanding of the biophysical and biochemical cues that direct stem cell fate choices. Effective production of lineage specific progenitors or terminally differentiated cells enables researchers to incorporate hESC derivatives into engineered tissue constructs. Here, we describe current efforts using hESCs as a cell source for tissue engineering applications, highlighting potential advantages of hESCs over current practices as well as challenges which must be overcome.
Synthesis, Processing, Mechanical, and Biological Property Characterization of Hydroxyapatite Whisker-Reinforced Hydroxyapatite Composites

Effects of hydroxyapatite (HA) whiskers addition on densification, mechanical, and biological properties of HA compacts were studied for their use as an implant material for orthopedic and dental applications. HA nanopowder was synthesized using reverse micelle as template system, and urea hydrolysis synthesis route was used to prepare micrometer-sized HA whiskers. Poly (oxyethylene)12 nonylphenol ether (NP12) and cyclohexane were used as surfactant and organic solvent, respectively, for the reverse micelle microemulsion system. Desired microstructure in sintered HA composite was obtained by mixing Mg2+ as a dopant in HA nanopowders, and Al3+ as a dopant in HA whiskers. Compacts were processed using pressureless sintering. With an increase in whisker content from 0 to 10 wt%, the average compressive strength of HA compacts decreased from 120 to 90 MPa. HA composite processed with 10 wt% HA whisker showed a microhardness of 3.6 GPa and an average indentation fracture toughness of 1.5 MPa·m1/2. Mineralization study in simulated body fluid showed deposition of octacalcium phosphate on sintered HA compacts. In vitro cytotoxicity tests with human osteoprecursor cell line confirmed excellent osteoblast cell attachment and growth on the sintered HA compacts with 0, 10, and 20 wt% HA whiskers.
On‐line molecular weight distribution estimation and control in batch polymerization

A molecular weight distribution (MWD) estimator for batch methyl methacrylate solution polymerization is implemented experimentally for on-fine control and estimation of the MWD. The estimator is based on an extended Kafman filter and provides current estimates of the entire MWD, reaction temperature, monomer conversion, and initiator conversion. It uses a detailed polymerisation model, onfine monomer conversion measurements, temperature measurements, and periodic, time-delayed measurements of the MWD from an on-fine size-exclusion chromatograph. The estimator is shown to perform well with several on-fine MWD estimation experiments. Real-time feedback control of the molecular weight is presented by utilizing the on-fine MWD information
Blind spots in democratization: Sub‐national politics as a constraint on Mexico's transition

This article argues that Mexico, after nearly seven decades of highly centralized, presidentialist rule, is moving toward a political system in which power is contested actively and continuously between centre and periphery. State governors and other sub‐national political actors have become more assertive in national politics, and they have greater financial resources under their control, due to fiscal decentralization. Now operating in an increasingly competitive electoral environment, the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) has switched to a primary system for selecting its presidential candidate that inevitably rewards the state and local PRI machines that deliver the vote for the winning candidate. Under these circumstances, the very different sub‐national political regimes that coexist inside Mexico may function more as obstacles to the completion of the democratic transition than as breeding grounds for further democratizing advances, as the ‘periphery’ is often viewed in the contemporary Mexic...
A Sequential Test for Two Binomial Populations

Abstract A sequential procedure is proposed for deciding which of two sequences of Bernoulli trials has the greater success probability. The procedure covers cases in which the two sequences are being observed at different rates, whether by design or otherwise, as well as the case of pairwise observation. The error probability of the procedure depends approximately only on the odds ratio of the two probabilities, a desirable property in deciding which of two medical treatments has the greater probability of success.
Peri-oral reflexes in the conscious monkey (Macaca mulatta).

Abstract Three rhesus monkeys were trained to exert simultaneous forces with their jaws and lips against force transducers. The lip transducer was coupled to a servocontrolled electro-magnet stimulator. Electromyographic (EMG) activity was recorded from orbicularis oris (OOS) and medial pterygoid (MPT) muscles. Elevation or depression of the lip-force transducer with the electromagnet elicited reflexes in the lip- and jaw-closing muscles. Reflex amplitudes elicited by stretching the OOS were logarithmically related to stimulus velocity. Depression of the lip-force transducer released pre-existing stretch of the OOS muscle and elicited reflexes in the OOS and MPT. The amplitudes of the reflexes elicited by the release stimuli were slightly greater than those elicited by stretching the lip. There was no short latency suppression of the OOS EMG following the release stimulus. The perioral reflex of the macaque appears to be similar to that of man; there appear to be no normal-acting muscle spindles in the OOS muscle.
Design and fabrication of substrates with microstructures for bio-applications through the modified optical disc process

The modified optical disc process has been investigated and demonstrated to enable fast prototyping in fabricating molds and replicating substrates with various microstructures including micro-chambers and micro-channels. A disc-like microfluidic device was created and the testing results showed good performance in bonding and packaging. The switching of the nozzle-like micro-valve was also validated to work well. Furthermore, the relevant procedures of liquid samples loading, separating and mixing were also accomplished through food experiments.
The golgin Lava lamp mediates dynein-based Golgi movements during Drosophila cellularization

The golgin Lava lamp mediates dynein-based Golgi movements during Drosophila cellularization
THE CONSTRUCT VALIDATION OF THE FSI ORAL INTERVIEW1

The validation of oral language proficiency tests has long been problematical. The most common approaches to this problem have involved concurrent validation procedures for relating “indirect” measures to so-called “direct” measures. The most frequently used criterion in such studies has been the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) oral interview. In validating the FSI interview itself, however, criterion-referenced procedures are not possible since an adequate operationally defined criterion for comparison is not likely t o be found. Therefore construct validation procedures are necessary. In this study a multitrait-rnultimethod matrix comprising six measures representing combinations of two traits (speaking and reading) and three methods (interview, translation, self-rating) was used t o examine the construct validity of the FS1 oral interview. The six measures were administered individually to 75 native Mandarin Chinese speakers of English. Data were analyzed using the Campbell-Fiske criteria for convergent and discriminant validity and using confirmatory factor analysis. The results indicate both convergent and discriminant validity for the FSI interview. Of the numerous factor models tested against the data, the model which provides the best fit comprises a general factor, two trait factors, and three method factors. A more parsimonious model, with two correlated trait factors and three method factors, fits the data nearly equally well and provides a more interpretable factor structure. These results provide strong evidence against a model of unitary language competence and support a model of partially divisible language competence.
Molecular characterization of a ChaC K+ transport regulator gene and its transcripts in the glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca coagulata

Abstract Four mRNA variants in pooled cDNA samples of the glassy-winged sharpshooter, Homalodisca coagulata, encoding a putative regulator of cation transporters were identified. RT-PCR showed that the hc-chaC variants were expressed during different stages of insect development and in different tissues and sexes. Structural analysis of the hc-chaC gene indicated that intron and exon sequences of the mRNA variants were identical, and similar to chaC-like genes of other insects. The Hc-ChaC protein (22.5 kDa) contained the conserved FGYGSL K+-binding motif near its amino-terminus, and the carboxy-terminal region contained two coiled-coil motifs, which had similarity to the PDZ domain present in well-characterized Na+/H+ exchanger regulatory factors. Our analyses suggest that Hc-ChaC is a regulator of K+ transporters such as K+/H+ antiporters.
Partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection (intact atrial septum) associated with mitral regurgitation

Summary The association of partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection with intact atrial septum and isolated severe nonrheumatic mitral regurgitation is rare, this combination of lesions having been reported on only one other occasion. Two such cases have been presented, with each patient having experienced an episode resembling subacute bacterial endocarditis. At operation, however, the mitral valve had a congenital cleft in one case and was normal in the other. One patient underwent mitral valvuloplasty and the second patient had mitral valve replacement. The diagnosis of associated partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection was established at cardiac catheterization, and successful surgical correction was achieved in each case by diversion of the anomalous pulmonary venous drainage to the left atrium via a pericardial tunnel through a surgically created atrial septal defect.
What is Success in E&B Research Utilization?

Over the past ten or more years, scholars in the field of environment and behavior (E&B) have expressed concerns repeatedly about the use of research information by professional designers and planners. However, the question of how we would know when we achieved this research use apparently has been assumed to be known. This article discusses how other fields have studied how research is used by practitioners of those fields and how E&B can begin to address those concerns.
Configurations of the rectus abdominis muscle of anuran tadpoles

Configurations of the rectus abdominis in tadpoles of 60 anuran species in 13 families were examined. This muscle is present by Gosner stage 25 and does not change until late in metamorphosis. The anterior terminus of the r. abdominis usually is a straight, transverse front or fan-shaped array only loosely associated with the rectus cervicis. In some suspension feeders (Rhinophrynus, Xenopus, but not microhylids), macrophagous suction feeders (Lepidobatrachus) and bromeliad inhabitants (Hyla bromeliacia) the r. abdominis is contigous with the r. cervicis which continues anterolaterally and dorsally from the wall of the spiracular cavity. Suctorial forms (Scutiger), those that live in confined spaces (burrowers, Centrolenella; bromeliad inhabitants, Hyla bromeliacia), and the taxa that have the r. cervicis and r. abdominis contiguous all have closed myosepta; the myosepta of other taxa; except for ones with large tadpoles (e.g., Rana catesbeiana), have large gaps between at least anterior myotomes. These initial data suggest that the configurations of the r. abdominis have responded to selection based on ecomorphological function and convergence among lineages are noted. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The optimum directivity of uniformly spaced broadside arrays of dipoles

The optimum directivity of various types of uniformly spaced broadside arrays of dipoles is investigated theoretically in this paper. The formulation is processed with the aid of an array matrix. The expression for the optimum directivity and the corresponding excitation are expressed directly in terms of the elements of the array matrix. The computed values are assembled in several sets of curves, and the results are compared with the directivity of uniformly excited arrays.
Technical Aspects of Adult Lung Transplantation

This article describes the authors' current technical preferences for the performance of isolated singlelung transplantation and bilateral sequential single lung transplantation. The current techniques are the result of lessons learned in the performance of over 400 lung transplant operations at Washington University School of Medicine since 1987.
Microdetermination of Fluoride in the Presence of Phosphate by Potentiometric Titration

A method for the microdetermination of fluoride in the presence of phosphate is described. Up to a 10-fold excess of phosphorus (as phosphate) can be tolerated. Phosphate is adsorbed on zinc oxide which is added in excess and need not be removed prior to titration of fluoride. Fluoride is determined potentiometrically with 0.02M lanthanum(III) at pH 5 to 7. A fluoride ion specific electrode is used with an expanded-scale pH meter to monitor the emf.
An effect of context on whether memory for initial position exhibits a Fröhlich effect or an onset repulsion effect

Memory for the initial and final positions of moving targets was examined. When targets appeared adjacent to the boundary of a larger enclosing window, memory for initial position exhibited a Frohlich effect (i.e., a displacement forward), and when distance of initial position from the boundary increased, memory for initial position exhibited a smaller Frohlich effect or an onset repulsion effect (i.e., a displacement backward). When targets vanished adjacent to the boundary of a larger enclosing window, memory for final position was displaced backward, and when distance of final position from the boundary increased, memory for final position did not exhibit significant displacement. These patterns differed from previously reported displacements of initial and final positions of targets presented on a blank background. Possible influences of attention and extrapolation of trajectory on whether memory for initial position exhibits a Frohlich effect or an onset repulsion effect and on backward displacement in memory for final position are discussed.
Cyclic plastic strain response and fracture behaviour of an oxide-dispersion-strengthened copper alloy

Abstract The cyclic stress response characteristics of an oxide-dispersion-strengthened copper alloy were studied over a range of plastic strains. The specimens were cycled using tension-compression loading under total strain control. In the asrolled condition the dispersion-strengthened matrix displayed continuous softening to failure at all cyclic plastic strain amplitudes. The heat-treated material displayed initial hardening followed by softening to failure. Micromechanisms controlling the stress response during cyclic straining are highlighted and a rationale for the observed behaviour is discussed in terms of the concurrent and synergistic influences of the initial state of the matrix dislocation arrangement, multiple microscopic crack initiation and macrocrack growth. The kinetics of the cyclic fracture process of the oxide-dispersion-strengthened copper matrix are discussed in terms of the competing influences of intrinsic microstructural effects, plastic strain amplitude and concomitant response stress.
Traits, neighbors, and species performance in prairie restoration

Questions: Are traits related to the performance of plant species in restoration? Are the relationships between traits and performance consistent across the functional groups of annual forbs, perennial forbs and grasses? Do the relationships between traits and performance depend on neighboring functional groups? Location: A former agricultural field, being restored to native upland prairie, in the Willamette Valley of western Oregon, USA. Methods: Twenty-eight native species, representing three functional groups, were sown in seven different combinations. Eleven functional traits were measured from plants in the laboratory and in the field. Correlations between individual traits and performance variables were measured and regression techniques used to determine which sets of traits were most strongly related to performance. Results: Sets of traits explained up to 56% of variation in cover, and up to 48% of variation in establishment frequency. The relationships between traits and performance were influenced by functional group identity; the functional group identity of neighboring species also influenced species' cover and the relationships between traits and cover. Species' establishment rate in monoculture was the trait most strongly correlated to both establishment and cover in mixtures. In multi-trait models, annual forb functional group identity was strongly related to establishment in mixtures, and height, leaf weight ratio at 7 d and seed mass were strongly related to cover. Conclusions: Multiple-trait models should be a useful way of predicting the performance of species prior to sowing in restoration. The functional group identity of each species and the other species being sown may need to be taken into account when making predictions.
Smith, Morality, and the Bankers

lating notes or notes payable to bearer, and restricted to a limited spread in interest rates.1 The details of two of these proposals are tied to the conditions of the time: Bank loans made in the form of deposits, new notions about currency, the changed role of gold and silver, and the expanded func? tions of banks have brought changes, and Smith would surely now make his points differently.2 But the principles remain the same: The creation of credit and media of exchange are evidently ways in which conditions can be changed to the advantage of some and the
A cytological description of sibling species of Simulium (Gnus) arcticum (Diptera: Simuliidae)

Cytological descriptions are presented for five sibling species in the Simulium arcticum complex. These are designated: IIL-st. (standard), IIL-1, IIL-2, IIL-3, and Il-3.4 for the sequences involved in sex determination. Descriptions are given in terms of standard maps of polytene chromosomes based on IIL-st. arcticum. Closest members are sympatric; they differ in sex chromosomes but share band polymorphisms and/or floating inversions. The centromere band, CII may be thin (CIIt) or enhanced (CIIe) and the inversion IIL-2 is an autosomal polymorphism in some members but sex-linked, fixed or lost in other members of the complex. A novel B-chromosome system occurs in IIL-st. and IIL-2 siblings. B's are eliminated from the soma of both sexes, i.e. they are confined to the germline. Females are further unique in that all B-containing individuals exhibit mosaicism in the oogonia. The B-chromosomes are large arcocentrics and their frequency distribution is non-Poisson.
Intratumoral delivery of shRNA targeting cyclin D1 attenuates pancreatic cancer growth

The aim of this study was to assess the biological consequences of cyclin D1 silencing in pancreatic cancer cells. A replication-defective lentivirus based small hairpin RNA (shRNA) system targeting cyclin D1 caused a marked reduction in cyclin D1 protein levels in ASPC-1 and BxPC3 pancreatic cancer cell lines in conjunction with decreased cell growth and invasiveness in vitro. Moreover, a single intratumoral injection of the recombinant lentivirus targeting cyclin D1 attenuated the growth of pre-existing tumors arising from two distinct cell lines. This attenuated growth correlated with decreased proliferation and angiogenesis, as well as attenuated vascular endothelial growth factor expression. It is concluded that lentivirus-delivered shRNA targeting cyclin D1 suppresses the growth, invasiveness, tumorigenicity and pro-angiogenic potential of human pancreatic cancer cells, thereby raising the possibility that intratumoral injections of viruses targeting cyclin D1 could provide a new therapeutic approach in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Absorption Band Shape and Urbach's Rule of Localized Excitons

An empirical description of the shape of optical absorption bands due to localized excitons in ionic crystals is proposed. The new formula links a nearly Gaussian description of the band near its maximum with an exponential description of the band on the low-energy tail (Urbach's rule). The applicability of the proposed shape formula over a range of 4\textonehalf{} orders of magnitude of absorption constants is demonstrated for localized excitons in KCl. The theoretical background which led to the proposed formula suggests that the existence of an exponential tail (Urbach's rule) is indicative of a predominantly quadratic interaction of certain lattice modes with the exciton formation.