cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Performance of the correlation-consistent composite approach for sulfur species

The performance of the correlation-consistent composite approach (ccCA) model chemistry has been examined for a test set of sulfur-containing molecules which includes enthalpies of formation, bond ...
Children's understanding of their parents' divorces

Children's understanding of their parents' divorces may not be logical, but it does make sense.
Responses to Loss and Health Functioning Among Homicidally Bereaved African Americans

This investigation of homicidally bereaved African Americans (N = 47) aimed to describe changes in levels of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and complicated grief (CG), and physical and mental health functioning over a 6-month interval. Results showed a significant decrease in depressive and CG symptoms over time, but no significant changes in PTSD symptoms or health functioning. We also found no significant, synchronous relations between any form of bereavement distress and physical health. Depression was related to functional mental health such that a temporal increase in depression was associated with a decrease in mental health functioning. Research and clinical implications are discussed.
Genetic responsiveness to copper in the Ice Plant, Mesembryanthemum crystallinum

Abstract To better understand genetic responsiveness to stress, Mesembryanthemum crystallinum plants were challenged with copper and then analyzed for mRNAs corresponding to the salt inducible and constitutive forms of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPCase) (Ppc1 and Ppc2 respectively), and a senescence inducible cysteine protease (Sep7). During the 200 μM copper stress of 6–7-week old adult plants, leaf transcripts of the CAM specific Ppc1 and Sep7 were approximately 5–10 times more abundant than those seen in unstressed plants. Constitutive Ppc2mRNA levels were unchanged relative to controls. Compared to unstressed plants, both Ppc1 and Sep7 transcripts were also quite abundant in leaves during NaCl and cytokinin treatment. Leaves of 800 μM copper sulfate treated plants did not contain detectable Ppc1, Ppc2 or Sep7 transcripts. Aerial tissues of 12–14-week old previously unstressed plants contained mostly flower buds and stems. Both these organs expressed Sep7 and Ppc2 transcripts at similar levels regardless of manipulation (no stress, salt or copper stress). As in younger tissues, mature bud and stem tissues responded to NaCl or copper stress by increasing Ppc1 mRNA levels. Only young copper stressed plants had enhanced copper sequestration and tissue lipid peroxidation, the latter indicative of free radical damage. Together, these results suggest that within a developmental context, the Ice Plant uses distinct genetic mechanisms quite akin to salt/drought stress in response to a moderate copper stress.
Tropomodulin-Binding Site Mapped to Residues 7–14 at the N-Terminal Heptad Repeats of Tropomyosin Isoform 5

Abstract Tropomodulin is a globular protein that caps the pointed end of actin filaments by complexing with the N-terminus of a tropomyosin (TM) molecule. TM consists of coiled coils except for the N-terminus, which may be globular. Here we report that human TM isoform 5 (hTM5) lacking the N-terminal 18 residues lost its binding activity toward tropomodulin. We further characterized the tropomodulin-binding site by creating a series of deletion and missense mutations within this region, followed by a solid-phase binding assay. I 7 , V 10 , and I 14 , hydrophobic residues located at the a and d positions of N-terminal heptad repeats involving intertwine, are essential for tropomodulin binding. R 12 , a positively charged residue at the f position, is also involved in recognition. In contrast, A2R and G3Y mutations, each creating a bulky N-terminus, did not alter the binding. In addition, rat TM5b, which differs from hTM5 in residues 4–6, exhibits a similar binding affinity. The tropomodulin-binding site, therefore, is mapped to residues 7–14 at the beginning of the long heptad repeats. Column chromatography revealed that hTM5 mutants remained capable of dimerization. Results also suggest tropomodulin has a groove-type, rather than a cavity-type, binding site for hTM5. We also mapped the epitope of monoclonal antibody LC1 to residues 4–10 of hTM5 and showed the competition between mAb LC1 and tropomodulin in hTM5 binding. Since the N-terminal residues need to overlap with the C-terminus of TM in their head-to-tail association, this investigation elucidates the mechanisms by which the tropomodulin–hTM5 complex is formed and functions in regulating the actin filaments.
What speech-language pathologists need to know about auditory processing disorder.

Purpose To consider whether auditory processing disorder (APD) is truly a distinct clinical entity or whether auditory problems are more appropriately viewed as a processing deficit that may occur with various developmental disorders. Method Theoretical and clinical factors associated with APD are critically evaluated. Results There are compelling theoretical and clinical reasons to question whether APD is in fact a distinct clinical entity. Not only is there little evidence that auditory perceptual impairments are a significant risk factor for language and academic performance (e.g., Hazan, Messaoud-Galusi, Rosan, Nouwens, & Shakespeare, 2009; Watson & Kidd, 2009), there is also no evidence that auditory interventions provide any unique benefit to auditory, language, or academic outcomes (Fey et al., 2011). Conclusion Because there is no evidence that auditory interventions provide any unique therapeutic benefit (Fey et al., 2011), clinicians should treat children who have been diagnosed with APD the sam...
Integration of local features as a function of global goodness and spacing.

In two experiments, the accuracy with which subjects detected a conjunction of features was examined as a function of the spacing between items and the goodness of the axis along which they were located. In each array, two items were arranged along a vertical, a horizontal, or a diagonal axis. Based on the well-established oblique effect, the vertical and horizontal axes were considered to be good global patterns and the diagonals were considered to be poor. In Experiment 1, the two items in an array could be two horizontal lines, two vertical lines, a vertical and a horizontal line, or a plus sign with one of the single lines. In Experiment 2, a positive and a negative-diagonal line were used as the individual features, and an “X” was used as the conjunction. The results from Experiment 1 indicated that global goodness influenced only the rate of illusory conjunctions, and not of feature errors. Illusory conjunctions of vertical and horizontal line segments were more likely to occur in vertical and-horizontal arrangements. The results from Experiment 2 revealed a reversal of the effect of global goodness on the rate of illusory conjunctions: Illusory conjunctions of negative- and positive-diagonal line segments were more likely to occur in diagonal arrangements. The results of both experiments taken together showed the existence of an important and new factor that influences the likelihood that features of shape will be conjoined: the ease with which line segments conjoin when they are translated-along their extent toward each other. In both experiments, greater spacing between items produced more feature-identification errors and fewer feature-integration errors than did less spacing.
THE TREATMENT OF IMPOTENCE BY MALE SEX HORMONE

THE SUBJECT of impotence is an unhappy and complicated one. Three systems of organs are involved in the male sexual act, and a disorder in any one of them may prevent its successful completion. The function of the nervous system is most important, particularly in the psychic sphere. While organic lesions of the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves may produce impotence, the latter is usually so overshadowed by other manifestations as to make it incidental. One may summarise the position of the endocrine system by saying that the anterior lobe of the pituitary governs the development and function of the testes which, in turn, control the development and function of the sex characters and accessory sex organs. Thus a reduction in the function of either anterior pituitary or testes will reduce or abolish potency. Impotence due to such disturbances is readily recognised.
Lee model and mesic atoms

An extension of the Lee model in quantum field theory is presented which has some of the features of mesic atoms. The model has three fermions V, N/sub 1/, and N/sub 2/, and two bosons theta/sub 1/ and theta/sub 2/ which interact according to Varrow-right-leftN/sub ..cap alpha../+theta/sub ..cap alpha../, ..cap alpha.. = 1,2. There is also a pair interaction between an N/sub ..cap alpha../ and theta/sub ..cap alpha../ particle which can produce atomic bound states that are shifted and broadened by the interaction Varrow-right-leftN/sub ..cap alpha../+theta/sub ..cap alpha../, ..cap alpha.. = 1,2. The T-matrix for N/sub ..cap alpha../-theta/sub ..cap alpha../ scattering is obtained in closed form, and its bound state and decaying or resonant state poles are investigated.
Age-Related Insulin Patterns in Normal Glucose Tolerance*

: In 707 non-obese female adults with unimpaired glucose tolerance, the fasting blood glucose levels of those in the fourth, fifth and sixth decades of life exceeded the levels found in those of the third decade (20–29 years), but there was no evidence of a progressive increase in successive age decades. The slightly greater fasting glycemia in the later age decades was accompanied by higher increments in blood glucose in the first half hour of the glucose tolerance test. These higher levels of glucose during the fasting state and in the first half hour after oral administration of glucose were not associated with increments in serum insulin greater than those recorded for the third age decade. This age-related increase in fasting and post-glucose blood sugar levels without an increase in serum insulin could result from the age-related increase in the thickness of capillary basement membranes. The higher levels of glucose could then serve to restore glucose transport and cell glucose metabolites to normal without evoking a rise in serum insulin. In 479 obese women with unimpaired glucose tolerance, there was no evidence of the age-related increase in fasting blood glucose nor the slightly exaggerated hyperglycemia found early in the test in non-obese subjects with normal glucose tolerance. The relative fasting hyperinsulinemia and the increased insulin responses to induced hyperglycemia known to characterize obese persons were present in all age decades but the hyperinsulinemia was less marked in subjects older than 30. In these obese subjects with unimpaired glucose tolerance, there was no evidence of any delay in the insulin response to the induced hyperglycemia.
Effect of Melodic Context, Tuning Behaviors, and Experience on the Intonation Accuracy of Wind Players

In the first of two experiments, subjects (N = 137) were band students with 1, 2, 3, or 4 years of formal instrumental performance experience. Subjects tuned to a single prerecorded tuning pitch and subsequently played along with a prerecorded four-measure melody. Direction and magnitude of pitch deviation were analyzed for the single tuning pitch and four selected target pitches within the melody. Responses to the tuning pitch were more accurate than for the melodic pitches. There was a high positive correlation among the four melodic pitches, but a low positive correlation between the melodic pitches and tuning pitch. In a second experiment, high school musicians (N = 167) played along with the same prerecorded melody after either (a) tuning their instrument to a single pitch, (b) receiving verbal instructions to perform “in tune,” or (c) receiving no information. No differences were observed among the three conditions. Students who first tuned to a single pitch were more accurate at this task than at m...
Enhancement of exchange bias in thin PtMn antiferromagnets by Ru and Cr nano-lamination

Abstract In this work, we report a novel approach to facilitate the phase transformation, namely the introduction of ultrathin Ru and Cr nanolayers inside the PtMn layer. The concept is to bury one or more very thin (
XV—Unity of Consciousness and the Self

The so-called unity of consciousness consists in the compelling sense we have that all our conscious mental states belong to a single conscious subject. Elsewhere I have argued that a mental state's being conscious is a matter of our being conscious of that state by having a higher-order thought (HOT) about it. Contrary to what is sometimes argued, this HOT model affords a natural explanation of our sense that our conscious states all belong to a single conscious subject. HOTs often group states together, so that each HOT is about a cluster of target states; single HOTs represent qualitative states as spatially unified and intentional states as unified inferentially. More important, each HOT makes one conscious of oneself in a seemingly immediate way, encouraging a sense of unity across HOTs. And the same considerations that make us assume that our first-person thoughts all refer to the same self apply also to HOTs; becoming conscious of our HOTs in introspection thus leads to a sense that our conscious states are unified in a single self. I argue that neither essential-indexical reference to oneself nor the alleged immunity to error through misidentification conflicts with this account. I close by discussing the apparent connection of unity with free agency.
Disposition of a mixed meal by conscious dogs after seven days of treatment with cyclosporine A and prednisone.

BACKGROUND Combination immunosuppressive therapy, that often includes prednisone and cyclosporine A (CyA), is commonly used in the treatment of organ transplant patients. We hypothesized that CyA and prednisone treatment would alter the roles of the liver and peripheral tissues in the disposal of carbohydrates from a meal. METHODS Using the arteriovenous difference technique, we examined the disposition of an intragastrically delivered mixed meal in eight 24-hour fasted conscious dogs that had received CyA 15 mg x kg(-1) daily and prednisone 5 mg twice daily for 7 consecutive days before study (CyA-prednisone group). The results were compared with those from a group of 13 dogs (control group) receiving the same meal but no drugs. RESULTS Neither arterial blood glucose concentrations nor arterial plasma insulin or glucagon concentrations differed significantly between the groups at any time. Cumulative net gut glucose output was equivalent to 43 +/- 9 vs 57% +/- 7% of the glucose in the meal in CyA-prednisone vs control (p = .12). The CyA-prednisone group exhibited greater (p < .05) mean net hepatic glucose uptakes (15.4 +/- 4.6 vs 4.3 +/- 2.2 micromol x kg(-1) x min(-1) and net hepatic fractional extractions of glucose (7.8 +/- 1.6 and 1.5% +/- 1.0%) than the control group. Arterial blood lactate concentrations and net hepatic lactate output were greater in the CyA-prednisone group than the control group (p < .05). Hepatic glycogen content at the end of the study was 2.5-fold greater in the CyA-prednisone group than in the control group (p < .05). The nonhepatic tissues disposed of approximately 91% of the absorbed glucose in the control group but only approximately 26% in the CyA-prednisone group (p < .05). CONCLUSIONS CyA-prednisone treatment caused a marked shift in the carbohydrate disposal from a meal, enhancing the hepatic glucose uptake and decreasing peripheral glucose disposal.
Resonant photodetachment of the positronium negative ion.

An adiabatic treatment in hyperspherical coordinates is used to predict the existence of resonant structures in ${\mathrm{Ps}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ (Ps denotes positronium) photodetachment. This highly correlated system displays a weak series of narrow Feshbach resonances lying just below the $\mathrm{Ps}(n=2)$ threshold, while a single strong shape resonance dominates the photodetachment spectrum above this threshold as in ${\mathrm{H}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$. Use of a "prediagonalized" representation of hyperspherical harmonics dramatically improves the convergence of the adiabatic calculation.
Surface modification of polystyrene by gamma-radiation

The effect of gamma-radiation on the surface chemical properties of polystyrene was studied by ESCA and FT-IR. Gamma-radiation produces surface >C=O and C-O containing functional groups only, and also causes oxidation to depths > 10 nm as detected by ESCA. FT-IR spectra showed that below the top few molecular layers ester, acid, and carbonyl groups of various types were present. The α,β-unsaturated carbonyl/acid groups form a higher proportion of the total carbonyls with increasing depth. Surface oxidation follows pseudo-first-order kinetics; the extent of interior oxidation is linear with dose.
Urocanic acid photobiology. Photooxidation and superoxide formation.

— Photolysis of urocanic acid (UA) and nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT2+), under conditions wherein the NBT2+ absorbs the light, leads to oxidation of the UA by the NBT2+ excited state. When UA is itself photolyzed in the presence of oxygen and NBT2+, NBT2+ reduction again occurs, but in this event via the intermediate formation of superoxide.
AML1-ETO mediates hematopoietic self-renewal and leukemogenesis through a COX/β-catenin signaling pathway

Developing novel therapies that suppress self-renewal of leukemia stem cells may reduce the likelihood of relapses and extend long-term survival of patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). AML1-ETO (AE) is an oncogene that plays an important role in inducing self-renewal of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs), leading to the development of leukemia stem cells. Previously, using a zebrafish model of AE and a whole-organism chemical suppressor screen, we have discovered that AE induces specific hematopoietic phenotypes in embryonic zebrafish through a cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and β-catenin–dependent pathway. Here, we show that AE also induces expression of the Cox-2 gene and activates β-catenin in mouse bone marrow cells. Inhibition of COX suppresses β-catenin activation and serial replating of AE+ mouse HSPCs. Genetic knockdown of β-catenin also abrogates the clonogenic growth of AE+ mouse HSPCs and human leukemia cells. In addition, treatment with nimesulide, a COX-2 selective inhibitor, dramatically suppresses xenograft tumor formation and inhibits in vivo progression of human leukemia cells. In summary, our data indicate an important role of a COX/β-catenin–dependent signaling pathway in tumor initiation, growth, and self-renewal, and in providing the rationale for testing potential benefits from common COX inhibitors as a part of AML treatments.
A 96-well SPRI reactor in a photo-activated polycarbonate (PPC) microfluidic chip

A 96-well solid-phase reversible immobilization (SPRI) reactor in a micro molded, photo-activated polycarbonate (PPC) chip was designed, fabricated, and used to purify genomic DNA (gDNA) in a highly parallelized fashion. A SPRI reactor was designed to fit in a 96-well microtiter plate format with compatibility to the existing samples/reagents loading technologies. A high quality, metallic, large area mold insert (LAMI) was fabricated using a SU-8 based UV-LIGA technique. Micro molding of polycarbonate (PC) was done using hot embossing, resulting in good replication fidelity over the large surface area. The 96-well PPC-SPRI reactor, assembled by thermal fusion bonding, showed 100% efficiency for simple and fast purification of gDNA from whole cell lysates of bacterial species. The 96- well PPC-SPRI reactor will open up new avenues for low cost, disposable DNA sample purification in high throughput applications.
On the routability of a convex grid

Abstract We give necessary and sufficient conditions to lay out the nets of a convex grid, in the knockknee model. Convex grids, defined by Nishizeki, Saito, Suzuki [9], include the common rectilinear channel, as well as L- , T- , and X -shaped regions. Whether a convex grid can be laid out can be determined in time which is linear in the perimeter of the grid. The algorithm of [9] to accomplish this is incomplete.
Measurement of blood plasma cortisol by p-hydrozinobenzene sulfonic acid/H3PO4 reagent; a modified Porter--Silber reagent of increased sensitivity.

Abstract A reagent combination, 275 mg % p -hydrazinobenzenesulfonic acid in 19.5 n H 3 PO 4 , is presented that has an increased sensitivity for the measurement of plasma 17α,21-dihydroxy-20-keto steroids. A plasma sample of 2 ml is sufficient for measurement of the cortisol concentration.
Breaking bad science

The tendency of the British press towards sensationalism has provided physician and science writer Ben Goldacre with a nearly endless supply of "Bad Science"—the title of his weekly column which ran in The Guardian from 2003 to 2011. Joel Best reviews Goldacre's new book, I Think You'll Find It's a Bit More Complicated Than That , which collects more than 100 short pieces that break down systemic problems with how science is presented and discussed in the public forum.
Coxsackievirus B4 infection alters thymic, splenic, and peripheral lymphocyte repertoire preceding onset of hyperglycemia in mice

Diabetogenic Coxsackievirus B4 infection may trigger autoimmune islet loss in diabetes-susceptible mice, resulting in hyperglycemia in nearly 90% of the animals at 6–8 weeks postinfection (p.i.). To ascertain whether changes in lymphocyte repertoire following infection could predispose these animals to diabetes, alterations in their thymic, splenic, and peripheral lymphocytes were analyzed. Additionally, lymphocyte changes were correlated with the virus load in these tissues and with lymphocyte migration to the inflammatory pancreas. Splenic B lymphocytes more than doubled at 72 hr p.i. and then continuously decreased by 16% of the noninfected controls at 8 weeks p.i. T lymphocytes (CD4+ + CD8+) decreased by about 50% at 72 hr and then increased to the control level by 8 weeks p.i.; CD8 subset continuously decreased by 40% of the control at 8 weeks, resulting in a 67% increase in CD4+/CD8+ ratio. Macrophages and CD5+B subset increased at 72 hr and then dipped by 93% and 84%, respectively, at 8 weeks. In contrast, peripheral B lymphocytes increased by 74% and T lymphocytes decreased by 11% a t 8 weeks p.i. Macrophages increased by twofold at 72 hr and then dipped slightly (6%) at 8 weeks, whereas CD5+B subset increased by 245%. Most prominent thymic T lymphocyte alteration was reflected by about 150% increase in CD4− CD8− cells at 8 weeks p.i. The peak viremia occurred at 72 hr p.i., with highest and lowest virus in the spleen and thymus, respectively. The thymus cleared virus by 3 days, the other tissues by 7 days. lnsulitis and acinar necrosis followed infection; infiltrating lymphocytes were mostly CD4−. Virus-induced abnormal lymphocyte maturation may contribute to the development of insulitis and hyperglycemia. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Out with the old, in with the new.

Transcription-coupled nucleosome turnover provides an opportunity to incorporate new nucleosomes at active genes. Swapping nucleosomes that contain silencing marks with those that are more permissive for transcription may provide a mechanism for remembering the activity state of a gene through the cell cycle.
Identification of a novel lipin homologue from the parasitic protozoan Trypanosoma brucei.

Background Arginine methylation is a post-translational modification that expands the functional diversity of proteins. Kinetoplastid parasites contain a relatively large group of protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) compared to other single celled eukaryotes. Several T. brucei proteins have been shown to serve as TbPRMT substrates in vitro, and a great number of proteins likely to undergo methylation are predicted by the T. brucei genome. This indicates that a large number of proteins whose functions are modulated by arginine methylation await discovery in trypanosomes. Here, we employed a yeast two-hybrid screen using as bait the major T. brucei type I PRMT, TbPRMT1, to identify potential substrates of this enzyme.
Cloning of Bordetella bronchiseptica urease genes and analysis of colonization by a urease‐negative mutant strain in a guinea‐pig model

The genes encoding urease were cloned from Bordetella bronchiseptica and the 5.2 kb of DNA essential for expression analysed in a T7 RNA polymerase transcription-translation system. At least four polypeptides with predicted molecular weights of 69,000, 26,000, 12,200 and 11,000 were found. Partial DNA sequence of the gene encoding the 69,000 Da polypeptide revealed high amino acid identity to the alpha-subunit of Proteus mirabilis urease, UreC and jack bean urease. A stable, unmarked deletion was constructed in this gene to create a urease-negative mutant of B. bronchiseptica. To assess colonization in a guinea-pig model, the urease-negative strain was inoculated with the urease-positive parental strain in a mixed infection. The urease-negative strain out competed the urease-positive strain in the trachea, lungs and caecum. We demonstrate that urease is not essential for B. bronchiseptica colonization of the guinea-pig respiratory and digestive tracts.
The On-Call Experience of Interns in Internal Medicine

• As part of an effort to examine the structure and content of our residency program in internal medicine, we assessed interns' activities on call to identify problems with workload scheduling, supervision, or learning. Eleven interns were observed continuously during a 34-hour on-call period. Interns averaged 5.6 hours at the bedside, with 57 minutes of that time under direct supervision of a resident or attending physician. Nearly half of new patient examinations continued after midnight despite a special night admission team that evaluated all patients admitted after 11 pm. The interns averaged 21 beeps per 30 hours. They slept an average of 2.5 hours with two interruptions. They read about their patients an average of 4 minutes during the 34-hour period. Most supervision was away from the bedside (82/139 minutes). Bedside supervision occurred predominantly during rounds (45/57 minutes). Attending physicians averaged only 12 minutes of bedside interaction with the intern. Many of these findings were unanticipated. Structural defects in the training program were defined and are being addressed. Other training programs should consider similar analyses before making fundamental changes. ( Arch Intern Med. 1990;150:2294-2297)
RNA degradation and the assembly of ribosomes in actinomycin-treated Escherichia coli

The fate of various fractions of RNA in Escherichia coli following inhibition of RNA synthesis by aetinomycin was studied. Cultures were made sensitive to the drug by brief treatment with EDTA. Following addition of aetinomycin, cells growing in minimal medium at 37°C lose 1·5 to 3% of their RNA with a half-life of approximately 1·5 minutes. This labile fraction appears to be messenger RNA because: (a) its loss is paralleled by loss of the in vivo capacity to make protein, and (b) sucrose gradients reveal that it sediments between 5 and 15 s, while during its disappearance other RNA, even if newly formed, is stable. The time course of incorporation of RNA into ribosomes was followed by adding aetinomycin to cells containing pulse-labeled RNA and determining the sedimentation properties in sucrose gradients of particles containing newly synthesized ribosomal RNA. RNA destined to appear in 50 s ribosomes first sediments at a much lower molecular weight, less than 30 s; then it forms an entity sedimenting at 40 to 45 s, and thereafter becomes part of a 50 s ribosome. This sequence provides evidence for a 40 to 45 s intermediate in the synthesis of 50 s ribosomes.
Cyclizations of unsymmetrical bis-1,2-(3-indolyl)ethanes: Synthesis of (−)-tjipanazole F1

Abstract The inter- and intramolecular dimerization of 3-substituted indoles was studied. The rate and extent of dimerization depends on the indole substituents. The intramolecular dimerization of unsymmetrical bis-1,2-(3-indolyl)ethanes could be controlled using either thermodynamic reaction conditions (neat trifluoroacetic acid) or kinetic conditions (2 equiv acid/chloroform). This control of regiochemistry has been applied to an efficient synthesis of (−)-tjipanazole F1.
Examining the contradiction in ‘sustainable urban growth’: an example of groundwater sustainability

The environmental planning literature proposes a set of ‘best management practices’ for urban development that assumes improvement in environmental quality as a result of specific urban patterns. These best management practices, however, often do not recognise finite biophysical limits and social impacts that urban patterns alone cannot overcome. To shed light on this debate, we explore the effects of different degrees of urban clustering on groundwater levels using a coupled land-use change and groundwater-flow model. Our simulations show that specific urban forms only slow down the impact on groundwater. As population increases, the pattern in which it is accommodated ceases to matter, and widespread depletion ensues. These results are predictable, yet current planning practice tends to take growth for granted and is reluctant to envision either no-growth scenarios or the prospect of depletion. We propose to use simulations such as those presented here to aid in policy discussions that allow decision ma...
Periodic incorporation of pendant hydroxyl groups in repeating sequence PLGA copolymers.

A series of repeating sequence poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) copolymers (RSC PLGAs) has been prepared with the precise incorporation of a pendant benzyl-ether substituted monomer derived from serine. Copolymers were synthesized from the assembly of sequence-specific, stereopure dimeric, and trimeric segmers of lactic, glycolic, and (S)-3-benzyloxy-2-hydroxy-propionic acids with controlled and varied tacticities. Deprotection of the hydroxyl groups was accomplished by catalytic hydrogenolysis to yield highly functionialized, hydrophilic polyesters. The 1 H and 13 C NMR spectra for all of the copolymers were consistent with sequence and stereochemical retention and lacked the signal broadening that is inherent with more random copolymers.
Rotational spectrum, structure and modeling of the OCS-CS2van der waals dimer

The rotational spectrum of a 1 : 1 weakly bound complex between OCS and CS2 has been measured by Fourier-transform microwave spectroscopy, giving ground state rotational constants of A = 2369.6942(9) MHz, B = 994.4467(6) MHz and C = 700.5137(3) MHz for the normal isotopic species. The experimental dipole moment components are μa = 0.2893(4) D and μb = 0.6364(27) D, with μtotal = 0.6991(25) D. The rotational constants and dipole moment components are consistent with a structure of Cs symmetry, in which the CS2 and OCS monomers are aligned almost parallel to one another, with a center of mass separation of 3.8017(2) A. This structure is in good agreement with the lowest energy geometry obtained from an ab initio calculation at the MP2/6-311++G(2d,2p) level which predicts rotational constants of A = 2322 MHz, B = 1036 MHz and C = 716 MHz and dipole moment components of μa = 0.32 D and μb = 0.69 D. Semi-empirical modeling using the ORIENT program gives similarly good agreement, although the predicted rotational constants and dipole moment are a little further from the experimental results (A = 2458 MHz, B = 1027 MHz and C = 725 MHz and μa = 0.34 D and μb = 0.68 D).
Validation of Whole Slide Imaging for Primary Diagnosis in Surgical Pathology

Context.—High-resolution scanning technology provides an opportunity for pathologists to make diagnoses directly from whole slide images (WSIs), but few studies have attempted to validate the diagn...
Controlling amine receptor group density on aluminum oxide surfaces by mixed silane self assembly

To estimate adhesion at polymer)solid interfaces, model substrates with varying )NH density on Al O were prepared by a 22 3 . . self-assembly of mixed amine terminated silanes AS and methyl terminated silanes MS . The density of )NH groups on 2 Al O was varied by changing the mol.% of AS and MS in solution. The model surfaces were characterized by means of X-ray 23 . . photoelectron spectroscopy XPS , contact angle measurements, atomic force microscopy AFM , and mechanical tests with polymers. The analysis of the competitive coadsorption kinetic model showed that MS adsorbed two times faster than AS on aluminum surfaces. The surface energetics of Al O was controlled by the mixed silane treatments from hydrophobic and low 23
Gender differences in the mesocorticolimbic system during computer game-play

Little is known about the underlying neural processes of playing computer/video games, despite the high prevalence of its gaming behavior, especially in males. In a functional magnetic resonance imaging study contrasting a space-infringement game with a control task, males showed greater activation and functional connectivity compared to females in the mesocorticolimbic system. These findings may be attributable to higher motivational states in males, as well as gender differences in reward prediction, learning reward values and cognitive state during computer video games. These gender differences may help explain why males are more attracted to, and more likely to become "hooked" on video games than females.
STILL WORKING AFTER AGE 70: OLDER PROFESSORS IN ACADEME

The purpose of this interview study was to examine the perceptions and experiences of tenured university professors who continue to work in their career jobs after age 70. The study utilized the case study method to let professors describe in their own voices the personal, professional, and institutional factors in their decision to keep working beyond the conventional retirement age and their plans for the future. The population under investigation was all tenured professors aged 70-74 at a major public research university, the institutions most likely to be impacted by the end of mandatory retirement (Hammond & Morgan, 1991). Content analysis of the interview tapes revealed the following themes: most professors continued to work because they enjoyed it, or felt that it was important to continue their work, perceived the overall atmosphere in their department and the university as positive, felt little institutional pressure to retire, and had no plans to retire. Economic factors played a relatively smal...
Modular entanglement of atomic qubits using photons and phonons

Many quantum protocols require fast, remote entanglement generation to outperform their classical counterparts. A modular solution is now reported, using trapped ions that are remotely entangled through photons. Quantum entanglement is the central resource behind quantum information science, from quantum computation and simulation1,2 to enhanced metrology3 and secure communication1. These applications require the quantum control of large networks of qubits to realize gains and speed increases over conventional devices. However, propagating entanglement becomes difficult or impossible as the system grows in size. Here, we demonstrate the first step in a modular approach4 to scaling entanglement by using complementary quantum buses on a collection of three atomic ion qubits stored in two remote ion trap modules. Entanglement within a module is achieved with deterministic near-field interactions through phonons5, and remote entanglement between modules is achieved with a probabilistic interaction through photons6. This minimal system allows us to address generic issues in the synchronization of entanglement with multiple buses. It points the way towards a modular large-scale quantum information architecture that promises less spectral crowding and thus potentially less decoherence as the number of qubits increases4. We generate this modular entanglement faster than the observed remotely entangled qubit-decoherence rate, showing that entanglement can be scaled simply by adding more modules.
Stochastic excitation of seismic waves by a hurricane

Stochastic excitation of seismic waves by a hurricane Toshiro Tanimoto* and Anne Valovcin Department of Earth Science and Earth Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, California 93106, USA. *Corresponding author: Email toshiro@geol.ucsb.edu Abstract We investigate how a tropical cyclone (Hurricane Isaac in 2012) generated seismic ground motions using seismic and barometric data from the Earthscope network. In the frequency band 0.01-0.02 Hz, seismic and surface-pressure amplitudes show a systematic decreasing trend with distance from the center of the hurricane. However, the decreasing rate is much higher for seismic waves than for pressure. We develop a stochastic theory of seismic-wave excitation by surface pressure that connects these two observed data sets; surface pressure is the excitation source and seismic data are the resulting seismic- wave field. This theory contains two parameters: (i) the pressure power spectral density (pressure PSD, S p ) and (ii) the correlation length in the pressure field ( L ). Using the formula, we solve for the spatial variation of correlation lengths. The solution shows that longer correlation lengths in pressure are near the hurricane center. Because seismic- wave excitation is proportional to L 2 S p , the excitation for seismic waves becomes effectively more localized closer to the center. Also the scaling relation between L and S p leads to an excitation source which is approximately proportional to the third power of surface pressure. This centralized source for seismic-wave excitation explains why the
CD94 defines phenotypically and functionally distinct mouse NK cell subsets

Understanding of heterogeneous NK subsets is important for the study of NK cell biology and development, and for the application of NK cell-based therapies in the treatment of disease. Here we demonstrate that the surface expression of CD94 can distinctively divide mouse NK cells into two approximately even CD94(low) and CD94(high) subsets in all tested organs and tissues. The CD94(high) NK subset has significantly greater capacity to proliferate, produce IFN-gamma, and lyse target cells than does the CD94(low) subset. The CD94(high) subset has exclusive expression of NKG2A/C/E, higher expression of CD117 and CD69, and lower expression of Ly49D (activating) and Ly49G2 (inhibitory). In vivo, purified mouse CD94(low) NK cells become CD94(high) NK cells, but not vice versa. Collectively, our data suggest that CD94 is an Ag that can be used to identify functionally distinct NK cell subsets in mice and could also be relevant to late-stage mouse NK cell development.
Auroral effects on midlatitude semidiurnal tides

The effect of auroral activity on mid-latitude semidiurnal tides was investigated using simulations from the NCAR Thermosphere/Ionosphere General Circulation Model (TIGCM). Model runs were made for solar cycle minimum equinox conditions for four levels of geomagnetic activity parameterized by the total hemispheric power index and the cross polar cap potential drop. Simulations at 42.5°N (gg) predicted that the upper thermosphere semidiurnal winds and temperatures generally increase with increasing geomagnetic activity, while the lower thermosphere fields were relatively insensitive to the level of auroral forcing in the model. The modelled semidiurnal mid-latitude tidal response was determined by the magnitude and phasing of the waves generated by in situ solar forcing and the auroral momentum and energy sources, in conjunction with those propagating up from the lower atmosphere. The predicted sensitivity of the model tides to the level of geomagnetic activity may contribute to the observed tidal variability at mid latitudes. Successful modelling of observations will require careful specification of the high-latitude energy and momentum sources.
Late Precambrian-Early Cambrian stratigraphic and faunal succession of eastern California and the Precambrian-Cambrian boundary

The Late Precambrian and Early Cambrian strata in eastern California and Nevada can be divided into 3 facies – the eastern Craton, the White-Inyo, and the Death Valley. These 3 facies supply evidence of 3 trilobite zones – the Fallotaspis, the Nevadella and the Bonnia-Olenellus; the inter-relationships are outlined. Correlations with the Siberian Platform successions are discussed and the Precambrian–Cambrian boundary is tentatively placed within the beds of the upper Reed Dolomite in the White-lnyo Range.
Military operations in urban terrain: indoor radio frequency propagation prediction methods

This paper investigates the applicability of two current military tactical communications technologies to military operations in urban terrain (MOUT): Single channel ground and airborne radio system (SINCGARS) and squad radios. Various existing radio frequency (RF) propagation prediction (or path loss) methods for urban environments were surveyed. The primary criterion for the selection of methods of consideration was that they must be valid over the 30-88 MHz frequency range of primary interest. Predicted results from chosen analytical tools were compared to measurements taken using a hardware suite representative of SINCGARS on the campus of The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL) for select indoor propagation scenarios. A new analytical indoor path loss model is derived from measurements by methods of polynomial and power curve fitting for a typical one-story office building. Also, modifications made to chosen analytical models yielded more accurate predictions.
Cultural change and adaptation: A critique of four articles

These four articles represent a unique set of empirical work on Asian American children and their parents. Their focus is on the cultural context of the family and how it interfaces with socialization processes in our larger society. Specifically, the articles examine how family values and practices are congruent or in variance with socialization activities commonly found in American schools. Shared among the articles is the thesis that immigrant families, as they become socialized into American society, make adjustments in their ways of doing things regarding the education of their children. Each of the articles identifies different forms of “adjustments” that are having positive impacts on the lives of the children, juxtaposed with traditional family values that are more resistant to change. And then of course, there are those adjustments in the socialization process that have detrimental effects on children’s lives. Shoho’s article, “A Historical Comparison of Parental Involvement of Three Generations of Japanese Americans in the Education of Their Children,” examines differences in parent involvement in schools across three generations of Japanese Americans in Hawaii. Using parent oral histories and historical documents, he found that third-generation Japanese American families (i.e., Sansei), although more economically stable, are less involved in their children’s schools than second-generation (i.e., Niseis) families were. The consequences of decreased Sansei parent involvement in the education of Yonsei (fourth-generation) children is resulting in more social misbehavior and educational underachievement than previously experienced by Japanese American families. By stressing educational excellence, the strong belief systems of Asians and Asian Americans encourage East Asian students to persist through difficulties and remain committed to school. “Educational Socialization in Korean American Children: A Longitudinal Study,” by Y. Elsie Choi, Janine Bempechat and Herbert P. Ginsburg, looks at the relationship between beliefs in one’s academic abilities and personal effort. The
The Role of Writing Quality in Effective Student Résumés

While writing teachers view the resume as a sophisticated rhetorical chal lenge, students tend to see it as a "technical specification"of their employment qualifications. This study investigated the reader's perspective by examining how writing features influence recruiters' assessments of resumes. Eighteen recruiters rated 72 resumes describing fictitious mechanical-engineering stu dents. Four resume features were systematically varied: relevance of previous work experience, elaboration ofindependent coursework, stylistic quality, and mechanical correctness. The major result suggests that technical work experi ence is important but not sufficient: If the resumes of technically well- qualified applicants contained grammatical errors, recruiters rated these resumes lower than resumes listing less experience but containing more accu rate writing.1
Environmentally Adaptive Sonar Control in a Tactical Setting

Automatic environmentally adaptive sonar control in littoral regions characterized by high spatial/temporal acoustic variability is an important operational need. An acoustic model-based sonar conroller requires an accurate model of how the sonar would perform in the current environment while in any of its possible configurations. Since high-fidelity acoustic models are computationally intensive, and finding the optimal sonar mode may require a large number of these model runs, such a controller may not be able to provide optimal line-up solutions in tactically useful time frames. We have explored a method of statistically characterizing a given operations area, generating a large ensemble of acoustic model runs, and training specialized artificial neural networks to emulate acoustic model input/output relationships. The neural networks reproduce the acoustic model outputs to a good degree of accuracy in a small fraction of the compute time needed for one of the original model runs. In this paper, the neural network training method is described, examples of neural network performance are given, and an example of controller solutions in a variable environment are presented.
Reactivity-controlled compression ignition drive cycle emissions and fuel economy estimations using vehicle system simulations:

In-cylinder blending of gasoline and diesel to achieve reactivity-controlled compression ignition has been shown to reduce NOX and soot emissions while maintaining or improving brake thermal efficiency as compared with conventional diesel combustion. The reactivity-controlled compression ignition concept has an advantage over many advanced combustion strategies in that the fuel reactivity can be tailored to the engine speed and load, allowing stable low-temperature combustion to be extended over more of the light-duty drive cycle load range. A multi-mode reactivity-controlled compression ignition strategy is employed where the engine switches from reactivity-controlled compression ignition to conventional diesel combustion when speed and load demand are outside of the experimentally determined reactivity-controlled compression ignition range. The potential for reactivity-controlled compression ignition to reduce drive cycle fuel economy and emissions is not clearly understood and is explored here by simul...
Considering Driver Balance Capability in Truck Shifter Design

A person’s ability to perform a task is often limited by their ability to maintain balance. This is particularly true in lateral work performed in seated environments. For a truck driver operating the shift lever of a manual transmission, excessive shift forces can necessitate pulling on the steering wheel with the other hand to maintain balance, creating a potentially unsafe condition. An analysis of posture and balance in truck shifter operation was conducted using balance limits to define the acceptable range of shifter locations. The results are dependent on initial driver position, reach postures, and shoulder strength. The effects of shifter force direction and magnitude were explored to demonstrate the application of the analysis method. This methodology can readily be applied to other problems involving hand-force exertions in seated environments.