cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Random Process Metamodel for Time-Dependent Reliability of Dynamic Systems

A new metamodeling approach is proposed to characterize the output (response) random process of a dynamic system with random variables, excited by input random processes. The metamodel is then used to efficiently estimate the time-dependent reliability. The input random processes are decomposed using principal components or wavelets and a few simulations are used to estimate the distributions of the decomposition coefficients. A similar decomposition is performed on the output random process. A Kriging model is then built between the input and output decomposition coefficients and is used subsequently to quantify the output random process corresponding to a realization of the input random variables and random processes. In our approach, the system input is not deterministic but random. We establish therefore, a surrogate model between the input and output random processes. The quantified output random process is finally used to estimate the time-dependent reliability or probability of failure using the total probability theorem. The proposed method is illustrated with a corroding beam example.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Genetics and genomics of the oomycete–host interface

Abstract Oomycetes are phylogenetic relatives of brown algae that cause many destructive diseases of plants, as well as several animal and human diseases. Because of oomycetes' distinct physiology, most fungicides are ineffective against them. With the aid of genetic and genomic tools, oomycete genes encoding secreted proteins that control the outcome of infection are being identified. Ongoing genomics efforts promise to identify further genes and create the possibility of new control measures.
Control of cloned gene expression by promoter inversion in vivo: construction of improved vectors with a multiple cloning site and the Ptac promoter.

Abstract We have constructed three gene-expression plasmids which contain (an) invertible promoter(s) and a multiple cloning site. We used either the plac promoter or the P tac - P lac tandem promoters, the latter directing a more than fourfold increase in expression of the gulK reporter gene in Escherikhiu coli host. All these plasmids were derived from the pNH7a expression plasmid of Podhajska et al. [Gene 40 (1985) 163–1681. Like pNH7a, these vectors have three novel properties: (i) in the ‘OFF phase’, the promoter is facing away from the gene to be expressed, (ii) the ‘ON phase’ is attained by the rapid and efficient inversion of the promoter mediated by the phage I Int product and the flanking attP and attB sites, which have a divergent orientation, and (iii) only a short heat pulse is required for the efficient inversion of the promoter and switching from the OFF to the ON phase. As for the pNH7a vector, the present plasmids contain the nut-N transcriptional antitermination system, which permits efficient gene expression even if terminator(s) happen to be present between the promoter(s) and the expressed gene. The promoter inversion is rapid and over 95 % efficient, as assayed by restriction analysis and galactokinase assay. Many genes could be conveniently cloned in the multiple cloning site, and then either kept totally silent or expressed in a rigidly controlled manner. Moreover, the pNH8, pNH16 and pNH18 plasmids, with already inverted promoters, could be used for expression of cloned genes, either in an unregulated manner or regulated by the luc repressor. They would be particularly useful for genes associated with terminators affecting their expression.
On decision-making with non-standard fuzzy subsets

We describe the formal equivalence between interval valued and intuitionistic fuzzy subsets. We then discuss the role of fuzzy set methods in multi-criteria decision-making. We note that when an application involves non-standard, interval valued or intuitionistic fuzzy subsets, a problem arises in choosing a best alternative. This problem is a result of the fact that the membership grades of these non-standard fuzzy subsets are not completely ordered. Here, we introduce a method for evaluating alternatives in this situation.
Vaccination delivery by chain pharmacies in California: Results of a 2007 survey

Abstract Objective To better understand the practice standards and scope of pharmacist-administered vaccination services at chain pharmacies in California. Design Cross sectional. Setting California in 2006–2007. Participants Eight state-level immunization coordinator corporate liaisons to chain pharmacies’ immunization programs. Intervention Key informant phone survey with follow-up written survey. Main outcome measures Policies, procedures, and vaccine usage. Results All eight chains provided immunization services to adults; four chains also vaccinated adolescents. More than 1,000 California pharmacists employed at chain pharmacies have been trained to vaccinate; more than 500 locations participate with evening, weekend, and walk-in hours. Influenza and pneumococcal vaccines were the most common vaccines administered. Other vaccines were used less frequently. Respondents expressed interest in partnering with public health to improve record sharing, build awareness, receive vaccine news updates, and explore other activities. Conclusion Chain pharmacies in California have started to vaccinate adults and adolescents—two commonly undervaccinated age groups. To date, patients seeking vaccination at pharmacies are most likely to receive influenza and pneumococcal vaccines. Community locations and extended hours offer patients convenience, although out-of-pocket fees may be a barrier to some patients. Opportunities exist to build and strengthen partnerships among public health, the medical community, and pharmacists in order to vaccinate and protect patients not vaccinated in traditional settings.
Diffraction phase and fluorescence microscopy

We developed simultaneous quantitative phase and epi-fluorescence microscopy of live cells. The sub-nanometer path-length stability is demonstrated by studying cell membrane fluctuations, while the composite phase-fluorescence imaging mode is exemplified with mitotic kidney cells.
Comparison of ascarosides from four species of ascarid and one of oxyurid (Nematoda)

Abstract 1. 1. Free and esterified ascarosides were identified in the ascarids Ascaris columnaris, Ascaridia galli and Toxocara cati , and the oxyurid Passarulus sp. through comparison with authentic ascarosides from Ascaris lumbricoides . 2. 2. The proportions of monol ascaroside (MS), diol ascaroside (DS) and diol diascaroside (DSS) were roughly the same in all species. 3. 3. Aglycones averaged 29.2–30.4 carbons in MS, 31.2–34.4 in DS and 31.7–35.3 in DSS. A variable percentage of ascarid monol aglycones were branched. 4. 4. Ascaroside esters of all species were primarily acetates and had identical isomeric form. Percentages of propionate and unesterified hydroxyl groups in ovarian ascarosides, and of volatile acids in triglycerides and waxes, increased with increasing size of the parasite.
Redesign of the B-1B Bomber Inlets for Improved Supersonic Performance

This paper presents a conceptual study of two alternative inlet concepts for the United States Air Force B-1B bomber to provide for improved supersonic performance with expansion of capabilities to high-altitude, high-speed flight at Mach 2.0. The two inlet concepts are two-dimensional, variable-ramp inlet systems designed to replace the current fixed-geometry, pitot inlets of the B-1B. One inlet incorporates a two-ramp system, while a second inlet incorporates a two-ramp system containing an isentropic contour. The entire inlet system including the supersonic diffuser, throat, cowl lip, and subsonic diffuser sections was designed to maximize the total pressure recovery at the engine fan face to achieve maximum thrust by the engine at Mach 2.0 conditions. Analytic methods implemented into the MATLAB and the NASA SUPIN codes are used to design and analyze the two-dimensional inlet concepts. In addition, high-fidelity WIND-US computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were used to verify the results of the analytic design methods. The results suggest that at Mach 2.0, the total pressure recovery of the inlets could increase from 0.70 to 0.94. The inlet capture area and cowl drag increased; however, the overall improvements resulted in a 98% thrust increase over the existing inlet at the design point.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Threshold wavelength on filaments of complex fluids

Abstract The breakup into drops of complex-fluid filaments – usually jets of polymeric and surfactant solutions – plays a central role in many engineering applications ranging from crop spraying to food processing and propulsion systems. To assess the influence of interfacial perturbations in the breakup process, we followed the dynamics of the initial wavelength of surface instability on complex-fluid filaments using direct numerical simulation. We found a threshold wavelength at low Reynolds numbers corresponding to a change on the filament's configuration near breakup from large primary drops connected by slender liquid threads for wavelengths below the threshold to clearly defined satellite drops in between the primary drops for wavelengths larger than the threshold. We also found that shear-thinning effects, by reducing the viscous resistance to the Marangoni stress responsible for the formation of the satellites, cause the threshold to appear at shorter wavelengths.
Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Cytologic manifestations and rapid diagnosis in routinely prepared papanicolaou-stained preparations

In this study of 28 immunocompromised patients, it was found that Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia could be easily and reliably diagnosed by examination of routinely prepared, Papanicolaou-stained cellular samples obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage, bronchial brushing, and bronchial washing. The distinctive intra-alveolar exudate of pneumocystosis observed in lung biopsy specimens was readily discernible in all of the cellular samples that demonstrated P. carinii by special stains. The exudate was not present in any of the P. carinii-negative samples. Routinely prepared, Papanicolaou-stained cellular samples can be relied upon for the rapid diagnosis of P. carinii pneumonia.
New applications of microbial products

Microbial secondary metabolites are now being used for applications other than as antibacterial, antifungal, and antitumor agents. These applications include use against parasites (coccidia, helminths) and insects as well as for animal and plant growth stimulation, immunosuppression, uterocontraction, and other pharmacological activities. Further applications are possible in various areas of pharmacology and agriculture, a development catalyzed by the use of simple enzyme assays for screening prior to testing in intact animals or in the field.
Single-Site Vanadyl Activation, Functionalization, and Reoxidation Reaction Mechanism for Propane Oxidative Dehydrogenation on the Cubic V4O10 Cluster

Vanadyl oxide (V═O) sites are thought to play a role in a number of industrially important catalysts for activating saturated alkanes, but in no system is the mechanism for the activation, product formation, and reoxidation steps established. In this paper, we use quantum mechanical methods (B3LYP flavor of density functional theory) to examine the detailed mechanism for propane reacting with a V_4O_(10) cluster to model the catalytic oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of propane on the V_2O_5(001) surface. We here report the mechanism of the complete catalytic cycle, including the regeneration of the reduced catalyst using gaseous O_2. The rate-determining step is hydrogen abstraction by the vanadyl (V═O) group (in agreement with experiment) to form an iso-propyl radical that binds to an adjacent V−O−V site. Subsequently, this bound iso-propyl forms propene product by β-hydride elimination to form bound H_2O. We find that this H_2O (bound to a V^(III) site) is too stable to desorb unimolecularly. Instead, the desorption is induced by binding of gaseous O_2 to the V^(III) site, which dramatically decreases the coordination energy of H_2O from 37.8 to 12.9 kcal/mol. Further rearrangement of the O_2 molecule leads to formation of a cyclic VO_2 peroxide, which activates the C−H bond of a second propane to form a second propene (with a lower reaction barrier). Desorption of this propene regenerates the original V_4O_(10) cluster. We find that all reactions involve the single vanadyl oxygen (V═O), with the bridging oxygens (V−O−V) serving to stabilize the iso-propyl radical intermediate. We refer to this mechanism as the single-site vanadyl activation, functionalization, and reoxidation mechanism (SS-VAFR). This SS-VAFR mechanism should be applicable to propane ODH on the supported vanadium oxide catalysts where only monovanadate (VO_4) species are present.
The Engineering and Societal Impact of Embedded and Autonomous Systems: Beyond Sensor Webs

There has been a great deal of excitement in recent years concerning the evolution of sensor webs of smart dust. There has been a very substantive active world wide in this area and in particular at Berkeley there have now been over six generation of "motes" for these sensor webs, and numerous start ups have arisen to commercialize these developments. I will survey the state of these exciting technology developments and describe how the technology push is matched by the applications pull on numerous different kinds of deployments. I will highlight the efforts of my group and that of my colleagues in developing what we refer to as "embedded intelligence" in the environment. In particular, I will describe the range of learning, signal processing and data aggregation methods and algorithms needed to track multiple targets in sensor webs and to be able to pursue these targets in a pursuit evasion game. I believe that the next frontier is the development of network embedded systems combining the use of sensor networks combining heterogeneous webs with high and low bandwidth sensors (such as camera motes) and mobile sensor webs. In particular, I will discuss the use of some new techniques, we have introduced along with Rene Vidal of Johns Hopkins and Yi Ma of UIUC, in the context of computer vision, called Generalized Principal Component Analysis to analyze multi-camera data.
Cardiovascular Disease in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Current Management Guidelines

Cardiovascular disease is the most prevalent and detrimental complication of diabetes mellitus. The incidence of cardiovascular mortality in diabetic subjects without a clinical history of previous cardiac events is as high as the incidence in nondiabetic subjects with a history of myocardial infarction. This inordinate increase in the risk of coronary events in diabetic patients is attributed to multiple factors, including glycation and oxidation of proteins and increased prevalence of classic risk factors of coronary disease, such as hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia. Despite advances in the management of cardiovascular disease, a large proportion of diabetic subjects continue to have uncontrolled hyperglycemia, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. In addition, certain medical interventions with established efficacy in the general population do not appear to be appropriate for diabetic subjects. Recently published clinical trials of managing coronary risk factors indicate that more stringent goals of therapy should be set for diabetic patients. In this communication, some of these landmark studies are reviewed and some practical guidelines of management are suggested.
Testing concomitancy between two physiological pulse series

Statistical methods for detecting synchronization of onsets of two physiological events, such as concomitant releases of prolactin )PRL( and luteinizing hormone )LH(, are studied in this paper. Usually, the two events are measured regularly and simultaneously and the onset times are then determined by the changes in the values of the measurements. Owing to difficulties in determining the exact onset times, a leeway is allowed for counting the onset synchronizations in most physiological studies. Using such a relaxed definition of synchronization and needing to allow for a recovery time between two episodes make the traditional hypergeometric test of concomitance inappropriate. Based on a truncated geometric inter-arrival distribution, Clifton et al. have used simulation to construct a table of critical values for performing tests of significance of the observed number of coincidences in a series of 73 measurements. In this paper, the conditions under which their method can be used are examined from a statistical point of view. Methods for testing cases not covered by Clifton et al. are also described.
Validation and real-world assessment of the Functional Assessment of Anorexia-Cachexia Therapy (FAACT) scale in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer and the cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome (CACS)

Patients with cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome (CACS) suffer a significant symptom burden, impaired quality of life (QoL), and shorter survival. Measurement of QoL impairments related to CACS is thereby important both in clinical practice and in research. We aimed to further validate the Functional Assessment of Anorexia-Cachexia Therapy (FAACT) scale in an advanced lung cancer population. We tested the performance of the FAACT and its anorexia-cachexia subscale (ACS) within a dataset of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC), using standard statistical methods. We then compared the performance of commonly used QoL measures stratified by CACS status and by patient self-report of appetite and weight loss. The FAACT and its ACS demonstrate internal validity consistent with acceptable published ranges for other QoL scales (Cronbach alpha = 0.9 and 0.79, respectively). Correlation coefficients demonstrate moderate correlations in the expected directions between FAACT and ACS and scales that measure related constructs. Comparing patients with and without CACS, the ACS is more sensitive to change than other QoL instruments (mean score 33.1 vs. 37.2, p = 0.011, ES = 0.58). In patients with aNSCLC, the FAACT and its ACS performed well compared with other instruments, further supporting their validity and value in clinical research. FAACT and ACS scores covaried with symptoms and other QoL changes that are typical hallmarks of CACS, lending further support to their use as QoL endpoints in clinical trials among patients with CACS.
Bases of Power, Administrative Preferences and Job Satisfaction: A Situational Approach.

Abstract Existing and preferred bases of influence between faculty members and chairmen in six social science departments were compared using the French and Raven ( Group Dynamics: Research and Theory . Evanston, IL: Row, Peterson, 1960 , pp. 607–623) taxonomy of social power. Faculty respondents were typed according to Gouldner's description of cosmopolitans and local ( Administrative Science Quarterly , 1957, 2 , 281–306; 1958 , 2 , 444–480). Three of the departments were in a state of stress due to protest resignations, contested tenure decisions, and disputes with chairmen. Both situational and personal factors were found to be related to perceived and preferred uses of influence. Faculty in nonstress departments reported greater reliance on legitimate, expert and referent powers for themselves and their chairmen; respondents in stress departments reported greater use of positive and negative sanctions. Locals perceived and favored referent and legitimate power, while cosmopolitans placed more emphasis on the use of rewards, and expert power.
Uranium in cassiterite of tin deposits

The relations in space and time between uranium and tin mineralization are highly varied, ranging from close coincidence between the ore bodies to clear-cut separation. Such variation calls for refinement of their concepts on migration and accumulation of uranium and tin. A correct understanding of their behavior in zones of deposition will ultimately provide a better prospecting and surveying criteria for both. In study the geochemical features of uranium in the formation of tin deposits, it is important to understand the forms taken by uranium in the ores and immediately in the individual cassiterite grains. Fission track radiography revealed widely varying abundances and modes of occurrence of uranium in cassiterite. The authors find these correlate with color within single deposits, and even within single crystals, and with the genetic type of the deposit. 24 references, 3 figures, 3 tables.
Self-managing technology in IBM DB2 universal database

As the cost of both hardware and software falls due to technological advancements and economies of scale, the cost of ownership for database applications is increasingly dominated by the cost of people to manage them. Databases are growing rapidly in scale and complexity, while skilled database administrators (DBAs) are becoming rarer and more expensive. The scope of responsibility of DBAs is indeed daunting. This paper describes the self-managing technology in IBM DB2 Universal Database to illustrate how self-managing technology can enhance the usability of enterprise middleware and reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO).
Cooling panel optimization for the active cooling system of a hypersonic aircraft

Optimization of cooling panels for an active cooling system of a hypersonic aircraft is explored. The flow passages are of rectangular cross section with one wall heated. An analytical fin-type model for incompressible flow in smooth-wall rectangular ducts with coupled wall conduction is proposed. Based on this model, the a flow rate of coolant to each design minimum mass flow rate or coolant for a single cooling panel is obtained by satisfying hydrodynamic, thermal, and Mach number constraints. Also, the sensitivity of the optimal mass flow rate of coolant to each design variable is investigated. In addition, numerical solutions for constant property flow in rectangular ducts, with one side rib-roughened and coupled wall conduction, are obtained using a k-epsilon and wall function turbulence model, these results are compared with predictions of the analytical model.
Nicotine modulation of apoptosis in human coronary artery endothelial cells.

Abstract It has been recently reported that nicotine, the addictive component of tobacco, is an important modulator at the level of immune cell apoptosis or programmed cell death. Apoptosis is a process that helps maintain the homeostasis of the vascular endothelium and vascular smooth muscle cells, and alteration of the apoptotic process has been associated with cardiovascular diseases. The present study examined the effects and the mechanisms of action of nicotine on apoptosis in human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs). Cultured HCAECs were treated with nicotine at a concentration that correlates with the tissue level of smokers (1 μg/ml), concurrently with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and dexamethasone to induce apoptosis. The data showed that nicotine significantly inhibited apoptosis in HCAECs, as verified by the decreased expression level of active caspases compared to cells treated with the apoptosis inducers alone. This decrease was blocked by the addition of d-tubocurarine chloride (d-TC), a general nicotinic receptor antagonist, providing evidence that this action of nicotine was receptor-mediated. The findings were further confirmed by TUNEL assay for DNA fragmentation, a biochemical marker of apoptosis. This action of nicotine on apoptosis in human coronary artery endothelial cells suggests that nicotine may have an impact on cardiovascular pathology and atherogenesis.
An altitudinal transect study of the vegetation on Mount Kinabalu, Borneo

A quantitative transect analysis of altitudinal sequences of forest canopy species from 600 to 3400 m asl on Mt. Kinabalu (4101 m), Borneo, resulted in four discrete altitudinal vegetation zones. These were made up of mutually exclusive species groups for lowland (<1200 m asl), lower montane (1200 to 2000–2350 m asl), upper montane (2000–2350 to 2800 m asl), and subalpine (2800 to the forest line, 3400 m asl) zones. Zonal soil types were correlated with the vegetation zones. In upslope sequence, these were: lowland Oxisols, montane Histosol/Spodosol complex, and subalpine Inceptisols. The highest contents of organic carbon, extractable phosphorus, and exchangeable magnesium and potassium were recorded in the lower and upper montane zones. The upper boundaries of the lowland, upper montane and subalpine zones coincided with thermal thresholds of latitudinal bioclimatic zones: 18°C TMIN (Koppen's tropical), WI 85 (Kira's warm temperate), and WI 45 (Kira's cool temperate), respectively. The upper limit of the lower montane zone was correlated with an abrupt increase of water surplus estimated from the annual rainfall minus annual potential evaporation. These climatic characteristics appear to define ecological altitudinal turnover points, so called ‘critical altitudes’, where groups of associated species are displaced by other groups.
Escherichia coli diacylglycerol kinase: a case study in the application of solution NMR methods to an integral membrane protein

Diacylglycerol kinase (DAGK) is a 13-kDa integral membrane protein that spans the lipid bilayer three times and which is active in some micellar systems. In this work DAGK was purified using metal ion chelate chromatography, and its structural properties in micelles and organic solvent mixtures studies were examined, primarily to address the question of whether the structure of DAGK can be determined using solution NMR methods. Cross-linking studies established that DAGK is homotrimeric in decyl maltoside (DM) micelles and mixed micelles. The aggregate detergent-protein molecular mass of DAGK in both octyl glucoside and DM micelles was determined to be in the range of 100–110 kDa-much larger than the sum of the molecular weights of the DAGK trimers and the protein-free micelles. In acidic organic solvent mixtures, DAGK-DM complexes were highly soluble and yielded relatively well-resolved NMR spectra. NMR and circular dichroism studies indicated that in these mixtures the enzyme adopts a kinetically trapped monomeric structure in which it irreversibly binds several detergent molecules and is primarily alpha-helical, but in which its tertiary structure is largely disordered. Although these results provide new information regarding the native oligomeric state of DAGK and the structural properties of complex membrane proteins in micelles and organic solvent mixtures, the results discourage the notion that the structure of DAGK can be readily determined at high resolution with solution NMR methods.
Planning Theory Education in the 1980s: Results of a Second Course Survey

This paper updates a similar survey of planning theory course-outlines conducted exactly ten years ago. The paper examines the course content, required readings, and class assignments for 67 Master...
Aggressive behavior in clinically depressed adolescents.

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of aggressive behavior in adolescent inpatients and outpatients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Differences between males and females in prevalence and type of aggression, and level of parent-child agreement in report of aggression, were analyzed. Method Participants were 74 adolescents with MDD, aged 13 to 17 years. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders was used to identify MDD. Adolescents' aggressive behavior was assessed using an adapted version of the Brown-Goodwin Assessment for Lifetime History of Aggression; the Measure of Aggression, Violence, and Rage in Children; and the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory-Adapted Version. Results Results indicate high levels of aggressive behavior in adolescents with MDD. Amount and type of aggression did not differ by gender. Results indicate poor correspondence between parent and adolescent reports of aggression, which was most marked for females. Conclusions Aggressive behaviors are highly prevalent in depressed youths, with similar types and levels evident in males and females. Parents tend to underreport and may not be cognizant of aggressive behavior that occurs outside the home, particularly for females.
The radiological assessment of congenital dislocation of the hip

Radiological techniques have been employed routinely in the diagnosis and follow-up assessment of congenital dislocation of the hip for many years. Restricted in the past to standard radiography, modern radiology can now offer ultrasound studies in early diagnosis and evaluation, arthrography to determine treatment decisions, routine and computed tomography to assess therapeutic results and plan later operative treatment, and nuclear scintigraphy for the differential diagnosis of other hip diseases. Still not clear is the place of magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis and evaluation of hip disease. These modalities will be discussed in the order that they are used during diagnosis or follow-up.
Hydrolysis of acylglycerols and phospholipids of milled rice surface lipids during storage

The relative contribution of acylglycerols and phospholipids to the lipid hydrolysis in milled rice was investigated during storage at 37°C and 70% RH for 50 d. The MAG, DAG, and lysophospholipid contents of surface lipid were determined by reversed-phase HPLC. The MAG and DAG content of milled rice increased during storage from 0.06 to 0.18% (w/w milled rice), with the MAG content increasing more than that of the DAG. Lysophosphatidylcholine increased throughout the study from 0.013 to 0.034% (w/w), whereas lysophosphatidylinositol and lysophosphatidylethanolamine contents initially increased from 0.002 to 0.003% and from 0.005 to 0.009% (w/w), respectively, and then stabilized until day 50. The relative percentage of TAG and phospholipids hydrolyzed in milled rice increased rapidly during the first 3 d of storage from 12.3 to 37.6% and 25.0 to 62.5% (w/w), respectively, and steadily increased to 53.1 and 73.8% (w/w) on day 50. A higher percentage (62.5%) of phospholipids was hydrolyzed relative to TAG (37.6%) after 3 d and probably contributed significantly to milled rice lipid hydrolysis during early storage. However, TAG concentration (0.57%, w/w) was much higher relative to phospholipids (0.08%, w/w) in surface lipids, and therefore TAG hydrolysis was the major contributor to FFA development and the quality of stored milled rice.
Proposal for improved techniques in electron microscopy.

Abstract A light-insensitive polymer film exhibiting high sensitivity to electron radiation is proposed. An electron-sensitive organic ring of particular isomeric form is incorporated into a polymer matrix, thereby prohibiting its migration or removal by solvents. Exposure to electron radiation with energy as low as 3 ev causes a subtle but permanent change of isomeric state enabling the transformed ring to bind heavy metals. After treatment with a developing reagent, exposure to radiation is indicated throughout the film by permanently bound heavy metal with unexposed areas remaining free of metal. Theoretical considerations of the mechanisms proposed for the expected sensitivity and selective binding of heavy metals are reviewed. Suggested uses for the new film are as a substitute for photographic emulsion in electron microscopy and as a replacement for nuclear emulsion in autoradiography.
Avian lymph node: Light and electron microscopic study

We have observed by light and transmission electron microscopy lymphoid accumulations (LA) in the chicken located along the posterior tibial-popliteal and lower femoral veins. Three types of LA were characterized: 1) LA on the wall of the lymphatic, 2) LA with germinal center, and 3) well-developed LA possessing germinal centers and an intricate lymphatic sinus system. The latter will be termed a lymph node and is perhaps the structure responding to foot-pad injection of antigen and/or phytohemagglutinin (PHA). After the injection of PHA into the foot-pad, the lymph node enlarged and revealed the intermingling of two distinct groups of cells consisting of either small lymphocytes or medium lymphocytes and lymphoblasts. Because our earlier immunological paper proved the presence of T and B cells in the node, the two histologically distinct groups of cells appearing after PHA injection could reflect compartmentalization of T and B cells in the avian lymph node. Lymphoid and adipose tissues are in the same compartment. After PHA or antigen injection into the foot pad, the lymphoid tissue proliferates and the amount of the adipose tissue rapidly decreases. This suggests that lymphoid and adipose tissue form a special complex which is separated from the surrounding tissue by delicate connective tissue capsule. The relationship of the lymphoid and adipose tissue is comparable with that of myeloid and adipose tissue in the bone marrow. The majority of the sinuses shows smooth endothelial lining while others contain "hairy" macrophages attached to the endothelium. The germinal centers are located at the periphery of the node, but a few occur inside. The cellular content of the germinal centers is not unusual except for the presence of plasma cells.
A vibrating piezoelectric ceramic shell as a rotation sensor

Vibrations of a non-uniform circular cylindrical ceramic piezoelectric shell rotating about its axis are studied. It is shown that the shell can be used as a rotation sensor to measure the angular rate of a rotating body. Two-dimensional equations for a piezoelectric shell are employed. The sensitivity of the sensor and its dependence on various physical and geometric parameters are examined.
Maximum likelihood parameter estimation of hydrologic spatial processes by the Gauss-Newton method

Abstract The Gauss-Newton method for maximum likelihood (ML) parameter estimation of spatially correlated hydrologic fields is described with emphasis on computational aspects associated with its implementation. The essence of the Gauss-Newton method is that, for purposes of applying Newton's optimization method, the Hessian of the function to be minimized is replaced by its average value eliminating the need to calculate second derivatives. In ML estimation, the parameters are determined through minimization of the negative log-likelihood function and the average of the Hessian is known as the information matrix. The information matrix provides a lower bound to the covariance matrix of parameter estimation error. Methodologies to account for near-singular information matrix and to enforce lower or upper bounds in the parameters are described. A general method to eliminate the bias in covariance parameter estimates caused by unknown drift parameters is also presented. Some simple examples are presented to illustrate the potential advantages of Gauss-Newton. The conditions under which this method should perform well are also discussed.
A tale of ten fallacies: The skeptical enquirer's view of the carbon dioxide/climate controversy

Abstract The controversy concerning the potential climatic effects of increasing atmospheric CO2 is reviewed with a skeptical eye. Ten commonly accepted fallacies or unproved statements are discussed. They are: 1. (1) models are better than data; 2. (2) government imprimatur equals scientific validation; 3. (3) climate change will appear as a discontinuity; 4. (4) climate variability increases with climatic change; 5. (5) the warming trend over the past 100 years is clear evidence that CO2 warming is upon us; 6. (6) record high temperatures indicate CO2 warming; record low temperatures indicate the approach of an ice age; 7. (7) indirect climatic effects of CO2 are more important than direct effects; 8. (8) farmers should use predictions of climate warming for planning purposes even though modelers cannot predict next year's climate; 9. (9) forests are especially vulnerable to climatic warming because trees live a long time; 10. (10) deforestation equals desertification.
Modeling urban and regional aerosols near acid neutrality—application to the 24–25 June scaqs episode

Abstract Mathematically predicting the size and composition distribution of atmospheric aerosols can help to elucidate the complex link between emissions and particulate air quality. Wexler et al. (1994) identified and analyzed the atmospheric aerosol processes and estimated the relative importance of each term using parameters typical in South Coast Air Basin (SoCAB). The result was a general dynamic equation including only the relevant terms. In a previous paper we described practical difficulties integrating these equations under the acid-neutral conditions common in the SoCAB and introduced an acid equilibrium assumption, that is, the aerosol hydrogen ion concentration can be assumed to be in equilibrium with the gas-phase acidity. In this paper we use the model to predict the size and composition distribution of PM during the 24–25 June 1987 SCAQS episode. The predicted size distribution is compared to the SCAQS measurement data by John et al., 1989a , John et al., 1989b , John et al., 1990 .
On the Domain of Analyticity for Solutions of Second Order Analytic Nonlinear Differential Equations

Abstract The radius of analyticity of periodic analytic functions can be characterized by the decay of their Fourier coefficients. This observation has led to the use of so-called Gevrey norms as a simple way of estimating the time evolution of the spatial radius of analyticity of solutions to parabolic as well as non-parabolic partial differential equations. In this paper we demonstrate, using a simple, explicitly solvable model equation, that estimates on the radius of analyticity obtained by the usual Gevrey class approach do not scale optimally across a family of solutions, nor do they scale optimally as a function of the physical parameters of the equation. We attribute the observed lack of sharpness to a specific embedding inequality, and give a modified definition of the Gevrey norms which is shown to finally yield a sharp estimate on the radius of analyticity.
Is canavanine a natural component of mammalian metabolism

Abstract A group of non-protein amino acids of higher plants, namely l -canavanine, l -canaline, 0-ureido- l -homoserine, and l -canavaninosuccinic acid, have been implicated in mammalian intermediary metabolism. The clinical observations and biochemical basis for this hypothesis as well as conflicting experimental evidence are presented. A possible explanation for the apparent role of these non-protein amino acids in mammalian metabolism is offered.
Peptide Hormones Versus Steroid Hormones: Case Studies from Snail and Turtle Populations

Abstract: The proposed mechanisms of masculinization in gastropod mollusks (imposex) and feminization in oviparous vertebrates has focused primarily on the interaction of xenobiotics with the steroid hormone system. The evidence does not support the proposed mechanism of imposex induction, inhibition of CYP 19 (aromatase), since the changes in steroid titers occur only in the later stages of imposex. In addition, the role of vertebrate sex steroid hormones is limited in gastropods. Recent evidence suggests that peptide hormones play a key role in masculinization in snails and may be a more plausible mechanism of imposex induction. Steroid hormones play a role in feminization of oviparous vertebrates. Vitellogenin (Vtg, egg yolk) induction has been used extensively as a biomarker of feminization. However, in some species of turtles there is evidence that high levels of estradiol are necessary to initially induce Vtg. Once this imprinting occurs, lower levels of estradiol can then induce high levels of Vtg. It was found that environmental levels of estradiol do not always induce Vtg in male and juvenile turtles. However, these same levels of estradiol significantly elevate female Vtg levels. Elevated female Vtg may lead to larger, but fewer, eggs, and therefore fewer offspring. However, these offspring may have better survivorship. Alternatively, elevated Vtg may lead to a larger number of smaller eggs, which have been shown to produce smaller hatchlings with reduced survival. The effects of elevate female Vtg on fitness are difficult to assess in such long-lived species.
Observation of unexpected density effects in muon-catalyzed d-t fusion.

New experimental results on muon-catalyzed d-t fusion are reported. Unexpected target-density effects have been discovered both in dt\ensuremath{\mu} molecular formation in t\ensuremath{\mu}+${\mathrm{D}}_{2}$ collisions and in the effective sticking probability. The dt\ensuremath{\mu} formation rate is significantly enhanced at high density, presumably because of a strong three-body contribution. The origin of the observed reduction of the sticking probability at high density remains unclear. Both effects increase the number of fusions per muon that can be achieved; 150\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}4(stat.)\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}20(syst.) fusions per muon have been observed.
Vinyl-Substituted Silphenylene Siloxane Copolymers: Novel High-Temperature Elastomers

The synthesis of a series of vinyl-substituted silphenylene siloxane polymers of high molecular weight is described. 29Si NMR spectroscopy indicates that the polymers possess an exactly alternating microstructure of the silphenylene and siloxane moieties. The materials are completely amorphous with glass transition temperatures between −60 and −86 °C. All polymers degrade thermally only above 500 °C under both oxidative or inert atmosphere. The char yields at 900 °C increase with increasing vinyl content from 30% up to almost 70%. Cross-linking of a small fraction of vinyl groups by hydrosilylation gives materials with elastomeric properties. Dynamic mechanical experiments indicate that the bulk of vinyl groups cross-links thermally at temperatures above 230 °C. Therefore, the temperature window for possible applications of these materials as fire-safe elastomers extends from about −86 °C to approximately 230 °C.
Elemental composition of individual chondrules from ordinary chondrites

Sequential nondestructive neutron activation analysis was used to determine the bulk abundance of Fe, Al, Na, Mn, Cr, Sc, Co, and Ir in approximately 300 individual chondrules from 16 chondrites representing the H(3-5), L4, and LL(3-6) compositional and petrologic classes. The histograms indicate that the most probable abundances for lithophilic elements, except Cr, are enriched in the chondrules, while the siderophilic elements are depleted in the chondrules compared to the whole chondrite. Some of the abundance populations, such as Al and Fe, appear to be multimodal. Systematic variations in the composition of the chondrules with increasing petrologic type were observed; most consistent are an increasing Na-Al and Cr-Al correlation, a decreasing Na-Mn correlation, increasing Na abundance, and decreasing Na and Mn dispersions among chondrules.
Structures of dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthase of Trypanosoma cruzi in the folate-free state and in complex with two antifolate drugs, trimetrexate and methotrexate

The flagellate protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi is the pathogenic agent of Chagas disease (also called American trypanosomiasis), which causes approximately 50,000 deaths annually. The disease is endemic in South and Central America. The parasite is usually transmitted by a blood-feeding insect vector, but can also be transmitted via blood transfusion. In the chronic form, Chagas disease causes severe damage to the heart and other organs. There is no satisfactory treatment for chronic Chagas disease and no vaccine is available. There is an urgent need for the development of chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of T. cruzi infection and therefore for the identification of potential drug targets. The dihydrofolate reductase activity of T. cruzi, which is expressed as part of a bifunctional enzyme, dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthase (DHFR-TS), is a potential target for drug development. In order to gain a detailed understanding of the structure-function relationship of T. cruzi DHFR, the three-dimensional structure of this protein in complex with various ligands is being studied. Here, the crystal structures of T. cruzi DHFR-TS with three different compositions of the DHFR domain are reported: the folate-free state, the complex with the lipophilic antifolate trimetrexate (TMQ) and the complex with the classical antifolate methotrexate (MTX). These structures reveal that the enzyme is a homodimer with substantial interactions between the two TS domains of neighboring subunits. In contrast to the enzymes from Cryptosporidium hominis and Plasmodium falciparum, the DHFR and TS active sites of T. cruzi lie on the same side of the monomer. As in other parasitic DHFR-TS proteins, the N-terminal extension of the T. cruzi enzyme is involved in extensive interactions between the two domains. The DHFR active site of the T. cruzi enzyme shows subtle differences compared with its human counterpart. These differences may be exploited for the development of antifolate-based therapeutic agents for the treatment of T. cruzi infection.
Swine Effluent Irrigation Rate and Timing Effects on Bermudagrass Growth, Nitrogen and Phosphorus Utilization, and Residual Soil Nitrogen

Maximizing utilization of effluent nutrients by forage grasses requires a better understanding of irrigation rate and timing effects. This study was conducted in 1998 and 1999 on a Vaiden silty clay (very-fine, smectitic, thermic Aquic Dystrudert) soil to determine the effects of swine lagoon effluent irrigation rate and timing on bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] growth, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) recovery, and postseason soil profile NO3(-)-N. Treatments consisted of swine effluent irrigation at the rates of 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 ha-cm. Two additional treatments included 2.5 ha-cm applied on 1 September and 1 October in addition to a base summer rate of 10 ha-cm. In both years for early to mid-season irrigation, bermudagrass dry matter yield quadratically increased with increasing swine effluent irrigation rates. Averaged across years, effluent irrigation in October resulted in 30% less dry matter than in September. For late-season irrigation, apparent N recovery averaged 59% less and P recovery averaged 46% less with a delay in irrigation from 1 September to 1 October. The greatest quantity of soil NO3(-)-N was associated with both the greatest effluent rate and October irrigation treatments. Minimal yield benefit was obtained when effluent was applied at rates greater than 10 ha-cm during the summer months. Late-season irrigation, especially after 1 October for areas with similar climatic conditions, should be avoided to maximize synchronization of nutrient availability with maximum growth rates to minimize potential offsite movement of residual soil N and P.
On the use of model-free linear feedback to trade stock: Two open research problems

This paper is part of a new line of research involving the use of a model-free controller to trade stock. Motivated by robustness considerations, neither modelling nor identification of the stock price dynamics is involved. Instead, a time-varying investment level is generated using a “hardwired” feedback controller which processes states such as the cumulative gains and losses and the stock price. Within this framework, the focus of this paper is rather narrow: Beginning with existing results for the case of linear feedback, we provide a sampling of the type of research conducted in this evolving area by describing two open stock trading problems. We also include appropriate motivation for these problems and some background on stock trading so that the exposition can be followed by the uninitiated reader. As seen in the sequel, in addition to the development of theory characterizing performance of a trading strategy, an integral part of this research effort involves back-testing using historical stock market data.