cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Temperature determinations in the inductively coupled plasma using a Fourier transform spectrometer

Abstract A vertical profile of iron I excitation temperature in the inductively coupled plasma was determined using spectroscopic techniques based on the Einstein-Boltzmann expression for spectral line intensity and the powerful information gathering ability of a high resolution Fourier transform spectrometer. Calculated temperature values were found to be critically dependent on the oscillator strength values chosen from the literature; however, a qualitative picture of the vertical excitation temperature gradient in the plasma was well-defined and was found to reach a maximum value in the normal analytical zone of the plasma. Excitation temperatures for iron I, nickel I, cobalt I, and vanadium I and II in the normal analytical zone of the plasma were also determined by the same method.
AN EVOLVABLE HARDWARE LAYER FOR GLOBAL AND LOCAL LEARNING OF MOTOR CONTROL IN A HEXAPOD ROBOT

The use of Genetic Algorithms (GAs) to evolve Continuous Time Recurrent Neural Networks (CTRNNs) for locomotion control of a hexapod robot was demonstrated in previous work. Those controllers were shown to be robust to loss of sensory information and other peripheral variations and their operation was explained through qualitative dynamical systems analysis. Although real robot controllers were fielded, our prior methods contained drawbacks limiting the attractiveness of their implementation as real devices. These included centralization of the evolutionary learning algorithms and the inability of those algorithms to evolve effective controllers without inclusion of a priori architectural knowledge. In this paper, we will introduce a generic neuromorphic Evolvable Hardware (EH) learning architecture and show how it can be used to overcome these previous difficulties. We will also introduce a novel modification to previously reported EH methods that improves search efficacy. We will discuss our previous work, introduce relevant concepts from the emerging field of evolvable hardware as well as our chip, and show how it can be used to deliver effective and practical locomotion control. We will focus especially on the integrated systems abilities to self-heal and reconfigure while in service and will examine centralized, decentralized, and hybrid learning configurations.
Late Prehistoric Mortuary Features in the Greater Illinois Area: A Discussion of Form, Function, and Ritual Use

AbstractNumerous Late Prehistoric nonburial mortuary features have been identified in the greater Illinois region. Often, and sometimes uncritically, these features have been referred to as “charnel houses” in the literature. To date, there has been no attempt to tie all of the information on these features together. This study critically examines the features’ attributes and provides possible explanations of how they were used in the context of mortuary ritual. Two major types of features have been identified. The first is an above-ground feature consisting of a scaffold or small structure supported by posts. The entire feature is surrounded by a lightly built wall or fence. The close association of secondary human remains with these features suggests that they were used to expose, store, or display them. The second type is an enclosed area or a lightly built structure constructed directly on the ground. Examples from the American Bottom differ from those noted elsewhere. In some instances, the two featu...
Almost all graphs with average degree 4 are 3-colorable

The technique of using differential equations to approximate the mean path of Markov chains has proved very useful in the average-case analysis of algorithms. Here, we significantly expand the range of this technique, by showing that it can be used to handle algorithms that favor high-degree vertices. In particular, we consider the problem of 3-coloring sparse random graphs and analyze a "smoothed" version of the Brelaz heuristic. This allows us to prove that i) almost all graphs with average degree d, i.e. G(n,p=d/n), are 3-colorable for d≤ 4.03, and that ii) almost all 4-regular graphs are 3-colorable. This improves over the previous lower bound of 3.847 for the G(n,p) 3-colorability threshold and gives the first non trivial result on the 3-colorability of random regular graphs.
Economic consequences of high-throughput maskless lithography

Many people in the semiconductor industry bemoan the high costs of masks and view mask cost as one of the significant barriers to bringing new chip designs to market. All that is needed is a viable maskless technology and the problem will go away. Numerous sites around the world are working on maskless lithography but inevitably, the question asked is "Wouldn't a one wafer per hour maskless tool make a really good mask writer?" Of course, the answer is yes, the hesitation you hear in the answer isn't based on technology concerns, it's financial. The industry needs maskless lithography because mask costs are too high. Mask costs are too high because mask pattern generators (PG's) are slow and expensive. If mask PG's become much faster, mask costs go down, the maskless market goes away and the PG supplier is faced with an even smaller tool demand from the mask shops. Technical success becomes financial suicide - or does it? In this paper we will present the results of a model that examines some of the consequences of introducing high throughput maskless pattern generation. Specific features in the model include tool throughput for masks and wafers, market segmentation by node for masks and wafers and mask cost as an entry barrier to new chip designs. How does the availability of low cost masks and maskless tools affect the industries tool makeup and what is the ultimate potential market for high throughput maskless pattern generators?
Chromosome Banding Patterns and Idiogram of the Armenian Hamster, Cricetulus migratorius

The karyotype of the Armenian hamster, Cricetulus migratorius, has been studied using trypsin-Giemsa and fluorescence banding techniques. Chromosome measurements were made on 50 metaphases and the idiogram has been constructed. The diploid number of 22 chromosomes can be identified individually based on their banding patterns, size and centromeric position. Chromosome 1 is the largest and chromosome 10 is the smallest in the complement. The X and Y chromosomes are similar in size with distinct banding patterns.
A cis element in the recombination activating gene locus regulates gene expression by counteracting a distant silencer

We have identified a silencer and an antisilencing element that interact at a distance of 85 kilobases to regulate expression of the recombination activating genes Rag1 and Rag2 in thymocytes. Transgenic experiments showed that Rag promoter-proximal cis elements directed tissue-specific expression and that a Runx-dependent intergenic silencer suppressed expression in developing T cells. Deletion of the antisilencing element from the genomic Rag locus unmasked the intergenic silencer and abrogated Rag expression in developing CD4(+)CD8(+) T cells. We speculate that the Rag antisilencing element belongs to a class of cis elements that might be useful for genome diversification by activating genes encoded by otherwise silent transposable elements.
Tyranny and the Science of Ruling in Xenophon's "Education of Cyrus"

What distinguishes tyrannical from legitimate political authority? In what follows, I hope to show that to the extent that classical political theory can shed light on this question, our analysis of the character of tyrannical rule is incomplete without an understanding of Xenophon's Education of Cyrus. For while Plato and Aristotle generally mute the ambition for individual political supremacy in favor of virtuous citizenship within a small, self-governing community, the Education of Cyrus takes as its explicit theme how one supremely talented and aggressive ruler can satisfy his craving for recognition by improving the material welfare of millions.
Fractured catheter: Unusual complication of percutaneous nephrostomy

Abstract Temporary urinary diversion by percutaneous nephrostomy is gaining wide acceptance. The indications for this procedure are reviewed. A cracked catheter was an unusual complication after successful temporary diversion.
The role of colonial ascidians in altering biodiversity in marine fouling communities

A suite of invasive species, each with their own unique morphologies, have recently becomemembers of Gulf of Maine, ME USA subtidal communities (Harris and Tyrrell, 2001; Pederson et al., 2005). Three of these species, Botrylloides violaceus, Diplosoma listerianum and Didemnum sp., are colonial ascidians and have become major space occupants in New England fouling communities (Berman et al., 1992; Osman and Whitlatch, 1995, 1999; Whitlatch et al., 1995; Bullard et al., 2007-this issue). They are warm water, two-dimensional species that dominate during seasons of greatest fouling species recruitment (Stachowicz et al., 2002). Therefore, the presence of these species in the Gulf of Maine may significantly influence the recruitment of other species to fouling communities. The goal of this study was to examine the role of the three colonial ascidians in the development of fouling communities by comparing the recruitment of species onto panels containing organisms with different functional morphologies. We conducted field studies at two sites with similar species composition in Portsmouth Harbor, Newcastle, New Hampshire, USA. The communities occupying the floating docks at these sites included blue mussels (Mytilus edulis), the sea anemone Mitridium senile, encrusting
Detection sensitivity optimization of optical signals generated by fiber optic Bragg gratings under dynamic excitation

The dynamic response of a fiber optic Bragg grating to mechanical vibrations is examined both theoretically and experimentally. The theoretical expressions describing the consequences of changes in the grating's reflection spectrum are derived for partially coherent beams in an interferometer. The analysis is given in terms of the dominant wavelength, optical bandwidth, and optical path difference of the interfering signals. Changes in the reflection spectrum caused by a periodic stretching and compression of the grating are experimentally measured using an unbalanced Michelson interferometer, a Michelson interferometer with a nonzero optical path difference. The interferometer's sensitivity to changes in the dominant wavelength of the interfering beams is measured as a function of interferometer unbalance and is compared to theoretical predictions. The theoretical analysis enables the user to determine the optimum performance for an unbalanced interferometer.
Scaling laws for small-scale modeling of steam relief into water pools

Abstract It is suggested that the constant steam discharge stage of the operation of a safety relief valve (SRV) system in a BWR, and to some extent also the initial air clearing transient, can be modeled with steam and water in a geometrically similar, reduced-scale SRV/pool system by imposing full-scale pressures, temperatures and steam mass flux, and interpreting measured pressures, temperatures, and velocities as being equal to full-scale values, but time as being scaled in proportion to system size.
Regularities and Causality; Generalizations and Causal Explanations

Machamer, Darden, and Craver argue (Mechanism) that causal explanations explain effects by describing the operations of the mechanisms (systems of entities engaging in productive activities) which produce them. One of this paper’s aims is to take advantage of neglected resources of Mechanism to rethink the traditional idea (Regularism) that actual or counterfactual natural regularities are essential to the distinction between causal and non-causal co-occurrences, and that generalizations describing natural regularities are essential components of causal explanations. I think that causal productivity and regularity are by no means the same thing, and that the Regularists are mistaken about the roles generalizations play in causal explanation. Humean, logical empiricist, and other Regularist accounts of causal explanation have had the unfortunate effect of distracting philosophers’ from important non-explanatory scientific uses of laws and lesser generalizations which purport to describe natural regularities. My second aim is to characterize some of these uses, illustrating them with examples from neuroscientific research.
Beyond Anchoring: the Expanding Role of the Hendra Virus Fusion Protein Transmembrane Domain in Protein Folding, Stability, and Function

While work with viral fusion proteins has demonstrated that the transmembrane domain (TMD) can affect protein folding, stability, and membrane fusion promotion, the mechanism(s) remains poorly understood. TMDs could play a role in fusion promotion through direct TMD-TMD interactions, and we have recently shown that isolated TMDs from three paramyxovirus fusion (F) proteins interact as trimers using sedimentation equilibrium (SE) analysis (E. C. Smith, et al., submitted for publication). Immediately N-terminal to the TMD is heptad repeat B (HRB), which plays critical roles in fusion. Interestingly, addition of HRB decreased the stability of the trimeric TMD-TMD interactions. This result, combined with previous findings that HRB forms a trimeric coiled coil in the prefusion form of the whole protein though HRB peptides fail to stably associate in isolation, suggests that the trimeric TMD-TMD interactions work in concert with elements in the F ectodomain head to stabilize a weak HRB interaction. Thus, changes in TMD-TMD interactions could be important in regulating F triggering and refolding. Alanine insertions between the TMD and HRB demonstrated that spacing between these two regions is important for protein stability while not affecting TMD-TMD interactions. Additional mutagenesis of the C-terminal end of the TMD suggests that β-branched residues within the TMD play a role in membrane fusion, potentially through modulation of TMD-TMD interactions. Our results support a model whereby the C-terminal end of the Hendra virus F TMD is an important regulator of TMD-TMD interactions and show that these interactions help hold HRB in place prior to the triggering of membrane fusion.
Hydrodynamic model of vessel-generated currents

The drawdown and return currents of vessels navigating in channels have previously been described by empirical relations or by using physical models. The empirical solutions are generally limited in scope to idealized channel shapes. Physical models are unrestricted in this respect, but have limitations related to expense and scale effects. In this paper, vessel effects are modelled numerically. The vessel's displacement is represented by a moving pressure field. The movement of the pressure field is spatially varied in time, representing a vessel navigating along a channel. The hydrodynamics are described using the two-dimensional shallow water equations, which are modified to account for the effects of the imposed pressure field. A Petrov—Galerkin finite-element scheme using characteristic-based weighting is used to solve the governing equations. This Petrov—Galerkin test function is specifically designed to model flow fields containing large gradients such as those found in the vicinity of the moving vessel. The numerical results for return flows and water surface elevations are compared with flume results of vessel passages.
Chondrosarcoma. Immune reactions of a patient to autologous tumor.

Chondrosarcoma cells obtained from the tumor of one patient were established in culture. The tumor cells contained filamentous structures resembling viral ribonucleoprotein strands. Autologous small lymphocytes reacted immediately with cultured tumor cells and inhibited the growth of the culture. Destruction of tumor cells by lymphocytes was seen; autologous fibroblasts were not damaged. Small lymphocytes of another patient with chondrosarcoma also reacted immediately with cultured allogeneic tumor cells and inhibited growth. Lymphocytes of normal donors reacted both with cultured fibroblastic and neoplastic cells of the patient but only after several days of co-cultivation; blastic transformation of lymphocytes was evident during co-cultivation. It is proposed that patients with chondrosarcoma circulate presensitized small “executor” lymphocytes committed to a tumor antigen. The patient's serum reacted with cytoplasmic antigens of the autologous tumor cells in an indirect fluorescent antibody test.
Postischemic Cerebral Lipid Peroxidation In Vitro: Modification by Dietary Vitamin E

Using an in vitro system, we studied the effect of postischemic reoxygenation on cerebral lipid peroxidation in relation to the dietary intake of vitamin E (VE) in rats. Homogenates prepared from VE-deficient, -normal, and -supplemented brains, which were previously rendered ischemic for 30 min by decapitation, were incubated under air or nitrogen gas for 60 min. The extent of peroxidation in brain tissue was estimated by a thiobarbituric acid (TBA) test and by diene conjugation in total lipid extracts. The brain levels of alpha-tocopherol and of total and free fatty acids (FAs) were also determined. Aerobic incubation increased TBA reactants in all dietary groups; the effect was largest in the VE-deficient group, intermediate in the VE-normal group, and smallest in the VE-supplemented group. In contrast, nitrogen incubation did not alter the basal levels of TBA reactants except for a small rise associated with VE deficiency. Conjugated dienes changed in parallel with TBA reactants. alpha-Tocopherol decreased after aerobic incubation and also, to a lesser degree, after nitrogen incubation in each dietary group. Only in the reoxygenated samples of the VE-deficient group was there a significant fall in total polyunsaturated FAs. The levels of free FAs continuously increased throughout ischemia and subsequent incubation. However, the level of free polyunsaturated FAs was similar after aerobic and nitrogen incubation in each dietary group, and was not affected by VE. Thus, cerebral reoxygenation after ischemia propagates peroxidative reactions within esterified polyunsaturated FAs. The modification by VE of reoxygenation-induced lipid peroxidation suggests free radical mediation.
Sparse Direction of Arrival Estimation Using Co-Prime Arrays with Off-Grid Targets

In this letter, we consider the problem of direction of arrival estimation using sparsity enforced reconstruction methods. Co-prime arrays with M + N sensors are utilized to increase the degrees of the freedom from O(M + N) to O(MN). The key to the success of sparse-based direction of arrival estimation is that every target must fall on the predefined grid. Off-grid targets can highly jeopardize the reconstruction performance. In this letter, we use joint sparsity reconstruction methods to explore the underlying structure between the sparse signal and the gird mismatch. Two types of sparse reconstruction methods, the greedy method and the convex relaxation method, are considered. By implementing numerical experiments, we demonstrate that our proposed methods can fully utilize the virtual aperture created by co-prime arrays and also outperform the previously proposed MUSIC method with spatial smoothing.
1,3-ditungstacyclobutadienesIII. A comparison of the influence of the supporting ligands, PriO versus Me3SiCH2, on the reactivity of the M2(μ-CR)2 core toward alkynes

Abstract The compounds X 4 W 2 (μ-CSiMe 3 ) 2 react with alkynes to give X 4 W 2 (μ-C(R)C(R′)C(SiMe 3 ))(μ-CSiMe 3 ), II , where X = Me 3 SiCH 2 and OPr i , but the reaction profile differs with X. For X = Me 3 SiCH 2 , the reaction proceeds in a step-wise manner to give first a 1:1 π-adduct, X 4 W 2 (μ-CSiMe 3 ) 2 (η 2 -C 2 RR′), I , and then by carboncarbon bond formation II . For reactions involving X = OPr i and ethyne, there is NMR evidence at − 78°C for the formation of a transient species, I , but in general the reactions between (Pr i O) 4 W 2 (μ- CSiMe 3 ) 2 and alkynes obey second-order kinetics. The activation parameters for reactions involving Me 3 SiCCH with X 4 W 2 (μ-CSiMe 3 ) 2 reveal that for X = OPr i , Δ S ‡ is very large and negative, −43 eu, typical of organic cycloaddition reactions involving sterically encumbered reagents while the Δ H ‡ values are very small. For X = Me 3 SiCH 2 , Δ S ‡ values are only medium in magnitude and negative, consistent with a unimolecular reaction involving an ordered transition state but Δ H ‡ values are notably larger than for those observed for X = OPr i . The compounds II show rearrangements within the μ-C(R)C(R′)C(SiMe 3 ) ligands that are dependent on X such that the Δ S ‡ parameters, − 16 and +9 eu, lie in the order of magnitude X = Pr i O > Me 3 SiCH 2 while the Δ H ‡ values are in the reverse order. A comparison of these activation parameters for CC bond formation and rearrangements as a function of X may be understood in terms of the role of π-donation from the RO ligands to W.
The influence of crystalline anisotropy on neck growth during the sintering of zinc

Abstract Polycrystalline zinc wires of two grain sizes and zinc single crystal wires of four orientations all of them 0.010 in. in diameter were grown. Pairs of wires from each of the six groups were sintered together at 365°C for 8 hr in a pressurized dry hydrogen atmosphere and the widths of the necks formed between pairs were measured. In the single crystal pairs, the neck width depended upon the relative orientation of the basal planes in the wire with the largest width up to 2.7 times as large as the smallest. In the polycrystalline samples those with fine grain size, of the order of neck width, had small necks, while those with coarse grain size, of the order of the wire diameter, had large necks. The observed variations in the width of the neck with relative orientation and with grain size must be caused by the anisotropy of those properties of zinc which determine the rate of material transport during sintering. For sintering by diffusional flow these are specific surface free energy and diffusivity, for sintering by evaporation and condensation they are specific surface free energy and vapor pressure. Since for these mechanisms approximate equations for the rate of neck growth exist, the maximum ratios of neck width due to the anisotropies of specific surface free energies, diffusivities and vapor pressures can be estimated. They are considerably smaller than the observed ratio of up to 2.7. The remaining material transport mechanism for the early stages of sintering is plastic flow which, in zinc, is highly anisotropic, since even at temperatures near the melting point the critical resolved shear stress for slip on the basal slip system is five to ten times lower than for slip on any other system. The measured neck width of the single crystal wire pairs can be directly related to the ease of basal slip. Those pairs which are oriented so that no basal slip is possible have small necks, while those which are favorably oriented for basal slip have large necks. The small neck width in the fine-grained wires must be due to constraint which inhibits basal slip. No such constraint exists in the necks of the coarse grained wires. Material transport by plastic flow must play an important role in the sintering of the zinc wires.
Stress and coping in adolescence: A comparative study of pregnant adolescents and substance abusing adolescents

Abstract To examine the interaction of stress and specific problem constellations, a sample of 142 pregnant adolescents and adolescent mothers and 52 nonpregnant, substance abusing adolescents were compared with respect to levels of stress experienced, manifestations of stress, sources of stress, and coping measures used to deal with stress. No significant differences were found between the groups with regard to levels or manifestations of stress, although high levels were reported by substantial proportions of both samples. Family members proved greater sources of stress for the substance abusing adolescents. Significant differences were found between the two groups on use and perceived effectiveness of coping measures. The pregnant adolescents and adolescent mothers found adaptive coping strategies effective significantly more often than the substance abusing adolescents, and the latter found maladaptive coping strategies effective significantly more often than the pregnant adolescents and adolescent mothers.
Sensitivity Analysis, Monte Carlo Risk Analysis, and Bayesian Uncertainty Assessment

Standard statistical methods understate the uncertainty one should attach to effect estimates obtained from observational data. Among the methods used to address this problem are sensitivity analysis, Monte Carlo risk analysis (MCRA), and Bayesian uncertainty assessment. Estimates from MCRAs have been presented as if they were valid frequentist or Bayesian results, but examples show that they need not be either in actual applications. It is concluded that both sensitivity analyses and MCRA should begin with the same type of prior specification effort as Bayesian analysis.
The role of sex steroids in catamenial epilepsy and premenstrual dysphoric disorder: Implications for diagnosis and treatment

Despite our understanding of hormonal influences on central nervous system (CNS) function, there is still much to learn about the pathogenesis of menstrual cycle-linked disorders. A growing literature suggests that the influence of sex steroids on neurological and psychiatric disorders is in part mediated by an aberrant CNS response to neuroactive steroids. Although sex steroids such as estradiol, progesterone, and the progesterone derivative allopregnanolone (ALLO) influence numerous neurotransmitter systems, it is their potent effect on the brain's primary inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate that links the study of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and catamenial epilepsy (CE). After providing an overview of these menstrual cycle-linked disorders, this article focuses on the preclinical and clinical research investigating the role of estradiol and progesterone (via ALLO) in the etiology of PMDD and CE. Through exploration of the phenomenological and neurobiological overlap between CE and PMDD, we aim to highlight areas for future research and development of treatments for menstrual cycle-linked neuropsychiatric disorders.
Synthetic Mucin Fragments: Methyl-3-O-(2-Acetamido-2-Deoxy-4-O- and 6-O-β-D-Galactopyranosyl-β-D-Glucopyranosyl)-β-D-Galactopyranoside and Methyl 3-O-(2-Acetamido-2-Deoxy-4-O- and 3-O-Methyl-β-D-Glucopyranosyl-3-D-Galactopyranoside

Abstract Glycosylation of methyl 3-O-(2-acetamido-3, 6-di-O-benzyl-2-deoxy-β-D-glucopyranosyl)-2,4,6-tri-O-benzyl-β-D-galactopyranoside (2) with 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-α-D-galactopyranosyl bromide (1), catalyzed by mercuric cyanide, afforded a trisaccharide derivative, which was not separated, but directly O-deacetylated to give methyl 3-O-(2-acetamido-3,6-di-O-benzyl-2-deoxy-4-O-β-D-galactopyranosyl-β-D-giucopyranosyl)-2,4,6-tri-O-benzyl-β-D-galactopyranoside (8). Hydrogenolysls of the benzyl groups of 8 then furnished the title trisaccharide (9). A similar pflyccsylation of methyl 3-O-(2-acetamido-3-O-acetyl-2-deoxy-β-D-glucopyranosyl)-2,4,6-tri-O-benzyl- β-D-galactopyranoside (obtained by acetylation of 4, followed by hydrolysis of the benzylidene acetal group) with bromide 1 gave a tribenzyl trisaccharide, which, on catalytic hydrogenolysls, furnished the isomeric trisaccharide (12). Methylation of 4 and 2 with methyl iodide-silver oxide in 1:1 dichloro-methane-N, N-dimethylformamide gave the 3-O- and...
Lack of stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 function induces a palmitoyl-CoA Δ6 desaturase and represses the stearoyl-CoA desaturase-3 gene in the preputial glands of the mouse

The mouse preputial gland (222298), a specialized sebaceous structure, is rich in wax esters, triglycerides, and alkyl-2,3-diacylglycerol. We have found that the mouse PG expresses the three gene isoforms (SCD1, SCD2, and SCD3) of the Δ9 stearoyl-CoA desaturase enzyme that catalyzes the biosynthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids mainly, C16:1n-7 and C18:1n-9. However, mice with a targeted disruption in the SCD1 isoform (SCD1−/−) have undetectable SCD3 mRNA expression in the PG while the expression of SCD2 isoform was not altered. The levels of C16:1n-7 were reduced by greater than 70% while that of C18:1n-9 were reduced by 28%. The content of the C16:1n-10 (Δ6 hexadecenoic acid) isomer and a major fatty acid of the PG was increased by greater than 2-fold, mainly in the wax ester fraction of the SCD1−/− mouse. We demonstrate that the increase in C16:1n-10 is due to induction of a specific palmitoyl-CoA Δ6 desaturase activity. Testosterone administration to the SCD1−/− mouse induced SCD3 mRNA expression and resulted in an increase in the Δ9 desaturation of 16:0-CoA, but not of 18:0-CoA. These observations demonstrate that loss of SCD1 function alters the expression of SCD3 and reveal for the first time the presence and regulation of a palmitoyl-CoA Δ6 desaturase enzyme in mammals.
Biophysical evidence for His57 as a proton-binding site in the mammalian intestinal transporter hPepT1.

Purpose. The objective of this study was to provide direct evidence of the relative importance of the His57 residue present in transmembrane domain 2 (TMD 2) and the His121 residue in TMD 4 as proton-binding sites in human PepT1 (hPepT1) by using a novel mutagenesis approach.
Studies on the development of persistent lymphocytosis and infection with the Bovine C-type Leukemia Virus (BLV) in cattle

Abstract Determination of BLV infection rates in several cattle populations demonstrated that BLV is readily detectable in cases of bovine leukosis; in multiple-case leukosis herds; in leukosis contact herds; and in limited numbers of animals in leukosis-free herds. Animals with and without persistent lymphocytosis can be infected with BLV. The results of a reciprocal foster nursing experiment with 114 dairy cattle distributed through 9 different combinations of colostrum-deprived calves and foster dams showed that persistent lymphocytosis is a function of the genetic composition of the calf and not influenced by the persistent lymphocytosis status of the foster dam. Examination of sera from this experimental population for the presence of BLV infection indicated that more than 87 % of the animals had become infected by the end of the experiment. No correlation was demonstrable between persistent lymphocytosis and BLV infection. Calves derived from herds free of persistent lymphocytosis and BLV infection developed BLV infection without the simultaneous development of persistent lymphocytosis when raised in the foster nursing environment.
Value of Life Cycle in Explaining Trip-Making Behavior and Improving Temporal Stability of Trip Generation Models

Travel demand models are valuable tools in the transportation planning process; based on sound theory, these models bring a quantitative element to what is predominantly a political process. The forecasts output from these models guide decision makers in evaluating and selecting transportation programs and projects. Developing a better understanding of the factors that influence travel behavior, the changes in travel behavior over time, and the variables that best capture these changes may lead to the development of models that are more stable over time, increase the analyst's confidence in model results and lead to more cost-effective investment decisions. This paper investigates the life cycle as one such class of variables. In this context, "life cycle" is defined as the stage a family is in at a given time as related to factors such as the number and age of adults in the household; the presence, number, and age of children; and worker status. Using various statistical tests to evaluate the usefulness ...
Quantitative Study of Detection Performance for LWIR Hyperspectral Imagers as a Function of Number of Spectral Bands

Remote passive sensors can collect data that depict both the spatial distribution of objects in the scene and the spectral distributions for those objects within the scene. Target search techniques, such as matched filter algorithms, use highly resolved wavelength spectra (large number of bands) to help detect fine features in the spectrum in order to discriminate objects from the background. The use of a large number of bands during the target search, however, significantly slows image collection and area coverage rates. This study quantitatively examines how binning or integrating bands can affect target detection. Our study examines the long-wave infrared spectra of man-made targets and natural backgrounds obtained with the SEBASS (8-12 micrometers ) imager as part of the Dark HORSE 2 exercise during the HYDRA data collection in November, 1998. In this collection, at least 30 bands of data were obtained, but they were then binned to as few as 2 bands. This study examines the effect on detection performance of reducing the number of bands, through computation of the signal to clutter ratio (SCR) for a variety of target types. In addition, this study examines how band reduction affects the receiver operator curves (ROC) i.e. the target detection probability versus false alarm rate, for matched filter algorithms using in-scene target signatures and hyperspectral images. Target detection, as measured by SCR, for a variety of target types, improves with increasing number of bands. The enhancement in SCR levels off at approximately 10 bands, with only a small increase in SCR obtained from 10 to 30 bands. Variable number of bands within a bin (for fixed number of bins), generated by a genetic algorithm, increases SCR and ROC curve performance for multi-temporal studies. Thus, optimal selection of bands derived from one mission, may be robust and stable, and provide enhanced target detection for data collected on subsequent days. This investigation is confined to the study of calibrated, LWIR image cubes where clutter, rather than sensor noise, limits target detection. Therefore, many of the conclusions in this study regarding band reduction and band binning may not apply to image cubes containing noisy data, where band reduction and averaging may help substantially reduce the noise.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Predictive Modeling of Large-Scale Commercial Water Desalination Plants: Data-Based Neural Network and Model-Based Process Simulation

This paper presents a methodology and practical guidelines for developing predictive models for large-scale commercial water desalination plants by (1) a data-based approach using neural networks based on the backpropagation algorithm and (2) a model-based approach using process simulation with advanced software tools ASPEN PLUS and SPEEDUP and compares the relative merits of the two approaches. This study utilizes actual operating data from two of the largest multistage flash (MSF) and reverse osmosis (RO) desalination plants in the world. Our resulting neural network and process simulation models are capable of accurately predicting the actual operating data from commercial MSF desalination plants, but the accuracy of a neural network model depends on both the proper selection of input variables and the broad range of data with which the network is trained. A neural network model can handle noisy data more effectively than statistical regression and performs better in predicting the performance variables of both MSF and RO desalination plants. Our neural network model compares favorably with recent neural network models developed by others in accurately predicting actual operating data from commercial MSF desalination plants. When compared to a data-based neural network, a properly validated model-based process simulation (as in the case of MSF desalination plants) can more effectively quantify the effects of varying operating variables on the desalination performance variables. When it is difficult to develop a model-based process simulation (as in the case of RO desalination plants), we can use a data-based neural network to accurately predict the desalination performance variables.
Developing an Internal Risk Audit Process in Home Health Care Organizations: A Basic Primer for Meeting the NYS Office of the Medicaid Inspector General’s Compliance Standards

To meet the New York State Office of the Medicaid Inspector General’s Compliance Standards and maintain certification, home health care organizations must now implement annual internal risk audits. This article explores what an internal risk audit is and how it can be used by providers to enhance their ability to meet effectiveness standards and achieve stated objectives. This exploration consists of understanding the definition of an internal risk audit, what is involved in risk assessment, what types of risk should be the focus of home health care, the role of the internal risk audit in supporting organizational operations, and how the board and senior management staff need to contribute to the internal risk audit. In order to implement an annual internal risk audit, it is also imperative to understand how the organizational culture can impact internal risk audit controls.
Preincubation of cervical swabs in lim broth improves performance of ICON rapid test for detection of group B Streptococci.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether an enrichment method would improve the performance of an enzyme imunoassay test, the ICON Strep B, for detection of group B streptococci (GBS) in vaginoperineal swabs. Methods: The study was done in 3 phases. First, in 250 maternity patients, 2 swabs per patient were tested simultaneously by an overnight selective broth culture method (Lim broth) and the ICON assay. Forty-five (18%) specimens were positive for GBS by culture. The ICON assay detected only 2 (4%) of the positives. Second, in 391 maternity patients, a single swab was cultured as above. However, during the overnight incubation of the Lim broth, 0.5 ml aliquots were removed and tested by ICON assay at 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 h post-incubation. Seventy-two specimens (18%) were positive by culture. The ICON assay detected 20% of the positives at 4 h, 46% at 6 h, 70% at 8 h, 94% at 10 h, and 100% at 12 h post-incubation. Third, 97 high-risk patients with the diagnosis of preterm labor (PTL)/or preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) were sampled. Three specimens per patient were obtained: a single swab that was cultured as before and 2 double swabs, of which 1 was tested directly using the ICON test and the other was placed directly in Lim broth and incubated overnight. The aliquots of broth were tested by the ICON assay at 2, 4, 6, and 8 h post-incubation. Twenty-four specimens were positive by culture. Results: The direct ICON test detected only 4 (17%) of the positives. The ICON assay performed on the enriched samples detected 4% of the positives at 2 h, 21% at 4 h, 58% at 6 h, and 100% at 8 h post-incubation. Conclusions: These data indicate that the ICON assay may be used with 100% sensitivity and specificity to detect GBS-colonized high-risk mothers within 8 h if the initial sample size is doubled and the enrichment broth is used in the performance of the ICON assay.
Characterization of the effect of aphidicolin on adenovirus DNA replication: evidence in support of a protein primer model of initiation

Adenovirus DNA replication is inhibited by aphidicolin but the inhibition clearly has different parameters than the inhibition of purified DNA polymerase alpha. In adenovirus infected Hela cells, 10 micrograms/ml of aphidicolin reduced viral DNA synthesis by 80%. Cellular DNA synthesis was inhibited by 97% at 0.1 microgram/ml. 10 micrograms/ml of drug had no effect on virus yield or late protein synthesis though higher concentrations of drug (50 micrograms/ml) caused an abrupt cessation of late protein synthesis and 100 micrograms/ml reduced virus yield by 3 logs. Concentrations of the drug from 0.5 microgram/ml to 10 micrograms/ml were found to dramatically slow the rate of DNA chain elongation in vitro but not stop it completely, so that over a long period of time net incorporation was reduced only slightly compared to the control. 50 micrograms/ml or 100 micrograms/ml of drug completely inhibited incorporation in vitro. Initiation of viral DNA replication - covalent attachment of dCMP to the preterminal protein - occurs in vitro. This reaction was found to be insensitive to inhibition by aphidicolin. We thus conclude that aphidicolin exerts its effect on adenovirus DNA chain elongation, but not on the primary initiation event of protein priming.
Time-dependent density functional theory studies of the photoswitching of the two-photon absorption spectra in stilbene, metacyclophenadiene, and diarylethene chromophores.

Photochromophores such as cis-stilbene (1a), metacyclophenadiene (2a), and the diarylethene 3a undergo photoinduced conrotatory opening and closing of a central bond and are currently being sought out as potential candidates for media within 3D optical information storage devices. Strong molecular two-photon absorption (inducing the reversible photoisomerization) is a necessary feature for this application due to the need for high 3D spatial resolution. Here, the one- and two-photon absorption (OPA and TPA) characteristics of the open- and closed-ring isomers of 1−3 have been investigated using time-dependent density functional theory. It was determined that the excited states populated by two-photon absorption were nearly 1 eV higher in energy than the lowest energy excited state populated by one-photon absorption. The electronic structures of the TPA and OPA accessed states were then compared utilizing natural transition orbital analysis. There, it was found that states excited by OPA had ππ* character ...
Bubble entrainment and liquid–bubble interaction under unsteady breaking waves

Liquid–bubble interaction, especially in complex two-phase bubbly flow under breaking waves, is still poorly understood. In the present study, we perform a large-eddy simulation using a Navier–Stokes solver extended to incorporate entrained bubble populations, using an Eulerian–Eulerian formulation for a polydisperse bubble phase. The volume-of-fluid method is used for free-surface tracking. We consider an isolated unsteady deep water breaking event generated by a focused wavepacket. Bubble contributions to dissipation and momentum transfer between the water and air phases are considered. The model is shown to predict free-surface evolution, mean and turbulent velocities, and integral properties of the entrained dispersed bubbles fairly well. We investigate turbulence modulation by dispersed bubbles as well as shear- and bubble-induced dissipation, in both spilling and plunging breakers. We find that the total bubble-induced dissipation accounts for more than 50 % of the total dissipation in the breaking region. The average dissipation rate per unit length of breaking crest is usually written as , where is the water density, is the gravitational acceleration and is the phase speed of the breaking wave. The breaking parameter, , has been poorly constrained by experiments and field measurements. We examine the time-dependent evolution of for both constant-steepness and constant-amplitude wavepackets. A scaling law for the averaged breaking parameter is obtained. The exact two-phase transport equation for turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) is compared with the conventional single-phase transport equation, and it is found that the former overpredicts the total subgrid-scale dissipation and turbulence production by mean shear during active breaking. All of the simulations are also repeated without the inclusion of a dispersed bubble phase, and it is shown that the integrated TKE in the breaking region is damped by the dispersed bubbles by approximately 20 % for a large plunging breaker to 50 % for spilling breakers. In the plunging breakers, the TKE is damped slightly or even enhanced during the initial stage of active breaking.
Interaction between BZR1 and PIF4 integrates brassinosteroid and environmental responses

Plant growth is coordinately regulated by environmental and hormonal signals. Brassinosteroid (BR) plays essential roles in growth regulation by light and temperature, but the interactions between BR and these environmental signals remain poorly understood at the molecular level. Here, we show that direct interaction between the dark- and heat-activated transcription factor phytochrome-interacting factor 4 (PIF4) and the BR-activated transcription factor BZR1 integrates the hormonal and environmental signals. BZR1 and PIF4 interact with each other in vitro and in vivo, bind to nearly 2,000 common target genes, and synergistically regulate many of these target genes, including the PRE family helix-loop-helix factors required for promoting cell elongation. Genetic analysis indicates that BZR1 and PIFs are interdependent in promoting cell elongation in response to BR, darkness or heat. These results show that the BZR1-PIF4 interaction controls a core transcription network, enabling plant growth co-regulation by the steroid and environmental signals.
Energy-resolving carbon resistance probes for plasma edge characterization☆

Abstract The resistance increase in thin carbon films caused by energetic particle bombardment has been developed into a new device, the carbon resistance probe, to measure the energy and flux of particles at the edge of a plasma. In the present work we have calibrated this probe by ion implantation of hydrogen and deuterium with energies from 20 to 1600 eV, and have demonstrated sensitivity to particles with energies as low as 30 eV. Calibrations are also presented for thin-layer resistance probes, a new configuration in which energy resolution is obtained using carbon films and ranging overlayers comparable in thickness to the range of the particles. The results show that thin-layer probes can be used to measure the particle energies and fluxes typically encountered at the first wall of a tokamak.
Embedding design and service-learning into the K-12 computer science classroom

In the pre-university setting, computer science course assignments are often project-based, but seldom do they include real-life problems in real time. Many assignments are strictly dictated by what textbooks suggest as valuable learning experiences, as long as they can be completed in just a few class periods. The number of students taking a computer science course continues to dwindle, as does the number of teachers certified to teach computer science. Building on two case studies of EPICS High in computer science classrooms, this paper will open discussion and explore novel ways of engaging computer science teachers and students through compelling community-based service-learning projects using engineering design concepts. As it is EPICS High's mission is to be a leader in developing, disseminating, and supporting service-learning models that engage high school students in engineering and computing-based design projects that meet the needs of their communities, EPICS High intends to build relationships with computer science teachers to learn the best way this model can be implemented in their courses and help these teachers pilot an EPICS project that connects with their community.