cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clustering in crude oil prices and the target pricing zone hypothesis

Abstract This paper studies the target pricing zone (TPZ) hypothesis for crude oil by examining price clustering in the dollar digit. It is hypothesized that price clustering occurs within an established TPZ if OPEC is able to defend the upper and lower bounds through output changes. The results show that prices strongly cluster around the dollar digit value of 9 within the TPZ sub-periods, but not outside the sub-periods. Furthermore, the degree of clustering declines when production capacity utilization is high and when production significantly exceeds quotas, consistent with OPEC's inability to defend the zone. Nine-centered clustering also results in lower contemporaneous and next-day volatility. These results support the target pricing zone hypothesis of crude oil.
Techniques for mass training in basic computer skills

The user service group within a university computing center faces a growing training challenge as computing becomes available to much larger numbers of students. In many institutions, larger class sizes for computer training are becoming a necessity. At Washington State University (WSU), our class sizes have grown from a maximum of 12 students to a maximum of 250 students in four years. The larger classes require new and enhanced training techniques. This paper presents some techniques which have been successful at Washington State University for classes up to 250 students. Also presented are some speculations about the impact on training techniques of even larger classes (750 to 1000 students).
Sequential therapy with activated prothrombin complex concentrates and recombinant FVIIa in patients with severe haemophilia and inhibitors: update of our previous experience

Haemophilia patients with inhibitors can develop bleeding episodes, which are refractory to monotherapy with either recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) or activated prothrombin complex concentrates (APCC). Management of such bleeds is often difficult. We previously reported the safety of using a combination of rFVIIa and APCC given in sequential fashion. In this report, we update our experience with sequential therapy. A retrospective review of medical records was conducted including all reports of sequential therapy defined as receiving both rFVIIa and APCC within 6 h. Data extracted included demographic data, treatment prior to and following hospital admission, clinical data including type and location of bleed, response to therapy, physical examination and laboratory data. In addition, for some patients, thromboelastography was performed to document the effect of sequential therapy on clot formation characteristics. Four patients comprising 35 admissions, 209 hospital days and 115 days of sequential therapy were included in the updated dataset. No patient developed thrombosis or overt disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) although elevations in the D-dimer above 5 microg mL(-1) were noted in 42% of the courses that lasted >3 days. Efficacy is suggested by the fact that patients had resolution of their bleeds after a median of 3 days of sequential therapy after failing to respond to a median of 3 days of monotherapy. Thromboelastography demonstrated an additive effect. Sequential therapy is a safe, potentially efficacious approach in the management of refractory bleeding episodes in patients with haemophilia and inhibitors.
Kinetics of actin monomer exchange at the slow growing ends of actin filaments and their relation to the elongation of filaments shortened by gelsolin.

The kinetics of actin monomer exchange with the slow growing pointed ends of actin filaments have been determined by measuring rates of monomer addition to or loss from filaments with their fast-growing barbed ends blocked by the protein gelsolin. Direct measurements of filament length by electron microscopy confirmed that each gelsolin acts as a nucleus for an actin filament. The rate constants ascertained arek−=0.03s−1;k+=0.06 μm−1 s−1 at 23° C andk−=0.11 s−1;k+=0.09 μm−1s−1 at 37° C. They are approximately independent of pH from 7.0 to 8.0 at both temperatures. These rates are far slower than those reported on the basis of some electron microscopic studies of filaments assembled on to actin bundles. The rate constants also predict a higher critical monomer concentration for the pointed end at 37° C than at room temperature, consistent with direct measurements of this quantity. The relative slowness of the monomer exchange at the pointed end suggests that actin filaments with blocked barbed ends are relatively stable. The rate of redistribution of actin monomers from filaments stabilized at their barbed ends by the gelsolin-calcium complex to longer filaments was measured following removal of Ca2+, which decreases the capacity of gelsolin to nucleate filaments. The elongation occurs at a rate consistent with the measured rates of monomer exchange and is quantitatively described by Hill's model for filament elongation by random exchange of monomers from one end.
Emptiness formation probability for the anisotropic XY spin chain in a magnetic field

Abstract We study an asymptotic behavior of the probability of formation of a ferromagnetic string (referred to as EFP) of length n in the ground state of the one-dimensional anisotropic XY model in a transversal magnetic field as n →∞. We find that it is exponential everywhere in the phase diagram of the XY model except at the critical lines where the spectrum is gapless. One of those lines corresponds to the isotropic XY model where EFP decays in a Gaussian way, as was shown in [J. Phys. Soc. Jpn. 70 (2001) 3535]. The other lines are at the critical value of the magnetic field. There, we show that EFP is still exponential but acquires a non-trivial power-law prefactor with a universal exponent.
Effects of denaturants on the absorption spectrum of the bacteriochlorophyll-protein from the photosynthetic bacterium Chloropseudomonas ethylicum

Abstract 1. The absorption spectrum of the water-soluble bacteriochlorophyll-protein complex in the 230- to 900-nm range is chiefly due to 20 bacteriochlorophylls per macromolecule and remains essentially unchanged in 5% Triton X-100, 6 M urea, 0.1 M AlCl3, 1 M NaCl or 1 M MgCl2. However, the bacteriochlorophyll is rapidly bleached by 0.1 M FeCl3. 2. The spectrum of the complex is stable in the pH range 3–12. Below pH 3, at room temperature, the bacteriochlorophyll is converted into bacteriopheophytin at a rate proportional to the fifth power of [H+]. The rate increases with increasing ionic strength. Below pH 1.5 a blue intermediate accumulates prior to the formation of pheophytin. Similar blue intermediates are formed above pH 12 and upon treatment of the complex with sodium lauryl sulfate at pH 8. This suggests a conformational change in the native complex as a common initial step in these transformations. 3. The absorption spectrum of the complex changes relatively little upon addition of methanol, until in 90% methanol bacteriochlorophyll is extracted from the complex. 4. Spectrophotometric study of heat denaturation of the complex is complicated by thermal degradation of the chlorophyll. Thirty sec at 100° causes a solution of the complex to coagulate. Concomitantly, the bacteriochlorophyll absorption band at 809 nm is split into 2 bands at 785 nm and 830 nm.
From stimulus encoding to feature extraction in weakly electric fish

ANIMALS acquire information about sensory stimuli around them and encode it using an analogue or a pulse-based code. Beha-viourally relevant features need to be extracted from this representation for further processing. In the electrosensory system of weakly electric fish, single P-type electroreceptor afferents accurately encode the time course of random modulations in electric-field amplitude1. We applied a stimulus estimation method2 and a signal-detection method to both P-receptor afferents and their targets, the pyramidal cells in the electrosensory lateral-line lobe. We found that although pyramidal cells do not accurately convey detailed information about the time course of the stimulus, they reliably encode up- and downstrokes of random modulations in electric-field amplitude. The presence of such temporal features is best signalled by short bursts of spikes, probably caused by dendritic processing, rather than by isolated spikes. Furthermore, pyramidal cells outperform P-receptor afferents in signalling the presence of temporal features in the stimulus waveform. We conclude that the sensory neurons are specialized to acquire information accurately with little processing, whereas the following stage extracts behaviourally relevant features, thus performing a nonlinear pattern-recognition task.
Examining supervised meals in patients with restrictive eating disorders

Abstract Objectives Anorexia nervosa is a chronic, life-threatening illness affecting adolescents with increasing incidence. Previous research has demonstrated that, although weight gain is a key to medical stabilization, there is wide and significant variability in treatment practices. Meal supervision in hospitalized patients involves the use of clinical staff as active and supportive observers during meal time. No studies to date have examined the effects of meal supervision in medically hospitalized patients with anorexia nervosa. The primary aim of this study was to examine the effect of meal supervision on outcomes during inpatient medical hospitalization. Methods A retrospective record review of 52 patients with restrictive eating disorders admitted to a tertiary pediatric hospital from July 2008 to July 2009 was conducted. Results The data revealed higher average weights and improved overnight heart rate trends for patients who received at least 1 supervised meal during hospitalization compared with those who received no supervised meals. Conclusions The findings warrant further investigation of meal supervision as a possible treatment modality.
Constructive empiricism, partial structures and the modal interpretation of quantum mechanics

Van Fraassen's modal interpretation of non-relativistic quantum mechanics is articulated to support an anti-realist account of quantum theory. However, given the particular form of van Fraassen's anti-realism (constructive empiricism), two problems arise when we try to make it compatible with the modal interpretation: one difficulty concerns the tension between the need for modal operators in the modal interpretation and van Fraassen's skepticism regarding real modality in nature; another addresses the need for the truth predicate in the modal interpretation and van Fraassen's rejection of truth as the aim of science. After examining these two problems, I suggest a formal framework in which they can be accommodated – using da Costa and French's partial structures approach – and indicate a variant of van Fraassen's modal interpretation that does not face these difficulties. Quanta 2014; 3: 1–15.
Soliton lattice to metal: A first order phase transition

In-situ measurements of the electron spin resonance of [Na+y (CH)−y]x during electrochemical doping are reported. The susceptibility and the esr linewidth exhibit step-like increases, with hysteresis, as functions of the chemical potential. These magnetic data, when combined with electrochemical and structural results on the same system, imply a first order phase transition from soliton lattice to metal.
Rapid measurement of aortic wave velocity: in vivo evaluation.

A 1D MR sequence has been developed for determining aortic flow wave velocity (WV), a metric of arterial compliance, within a single cardiac cycle. Studies were carried out on the thoracic aortas of 10 normal volunteers. Correlative WV data were also acquired from each subject using a conventional phase-velocity 2D mapping technique. Aortic WV in this cohort was found to range from 411 to 714 cm/s and was highly correlated (R = 0.95) between the two methods. Peak blood velocity was also measured using both methods and found to agree closely. The reproducibility of WV measurements using the rapid 1D method averaged 7.6%, which is comparable or better than that achieved using existing noninvasive techniques. Magn Reson Med 46:95-102, 2001.
Problems with tap-changing power supplies

To meet conflicting requirements for low ripple, high stability, wide bandwidth, high efficiency, and low radiated electromagnetic interference, a synchrotron dipole power supply was built with an SCR (silicon-controlled rectifier) tap-switched primary isolation transformer and linear bipolar transistor passbank. Numerous operational problems encountered after delivery and installation have necessitated a major overhaul of many of the supply's systems to meet full accelerator design goals. The author describes progress in overcoming limitations of the supply; typically, only one upgrade at a time was installed due to the tight running schedule. Particular emphasis is paid to the technique for switching taps on-the-fly for reliable operation. >
Transformation with a mutant Arabidopsis acetolactate synthase gene renders tobacco resistant to sulfonylurea herbicides

A gene encoding acetolactate synthase was cloned from a chlorsulfuron-resistant mutant of Arabidopsis. The DNA sequence of the mutant gene differed from that of the wild type by a single base pair substitution. When introduced into tobacco by Ti plasmid-mediated transformation the gene conferred a high level of herbicide resistance. These results suggest that the cloned gene may confer agronomically useful levels of herbicide resistnace in other crop species, and that it may be useful as a selectable marker for plant transformation experiments.
Using Cloud Constructs and Predictive Analysis to Enable Pre-Failure Process Migration in HPC Systems

Accurate failure prediction in conjunction with efficient process migration facilities including some Cloud constructs can enable failure avoidance in large-scale high performance computing (HPC) platforms. In this work we demonstrate a prototype system that incorporates our probabilistic failure prediction system with virtualization mechanisms and techniques to provide a whole system approach to failure avoidance. This work utilizes a failure scenario based on a real-world HPC case study.
What Causes Spatial Variations in Economic Development in the United States

This article examines the causes of spatial disparities in economic development in the United States. A theoretical model is developed to analyze the location decisions of firms and households. An empirical model is estimated to quantify the contribution of alternative factors to spatial variations in wage, employment density, housing price, and land development density. Results suggest that remoteness is a primary cause of spatial disparities in economic development, while natural amenities are a major determinant of housing prices. Despite the dominant role of geography, public investments in infrastructure and human capital development could contribute to economic development in remote areas. Copyright 2008, Oxford University Press.
Constructing the “National Interest” in U.S.–China Policy Making: How Foreign Policy Decision Groups Define and Signal Policy Choices

Complex foreign policy situations can produce competing definitions of the nature of a policy problem and thus different interpretations of which policy choices are in the “national interest.” In situations where political authority is dispersed, the challenge is to understand how and why different definitions of a political problem prevail over others. By focusing on the decision group's structure or level of openness, the nature of group interaction patterns, and the leader's level of involvement as policies are framed, this article examines how group decision processes shaped emerging policy definitions and policy signals in six case studies focusing on U.S. policy toward China.[1][1] [1]: #fn-1
DUKSUP: A Computer Program for High Thrust Launch Vehicle Trajectory Design and Optimization

From the late 1960's through 1997, the leadership of NASA's Intermediate and Large class unmanned expendable launch vehicle projects resided at the NASA Lewis (now Glenn) Research Center (LeRC). One of LeRC's primary responsibilities --- trajectory design and performance analysis --- was accomplished by an internally-developed analytic three dimensional computer program called DUKSUP. Because of its Calculus of Variations-based optimization routine, this code was generally more capable of finding optimal solutions than its contemporaries. A derivation of optimal control using the Calculus of Variations is summarized including transversality, intermediate, and final conditions. The two point boundary value problem is explained. A brief summary of the code's operation is provided, including iteration via the Newton-Raphson scheme and integration of variational and motion equations via a 4th order Runge-Kutta scheme. Main subroutines are discussed. The history of the LeRC trajectory design efforts in the early 1960's is explained within the context of supporting the Centaur upper stage program. How the code was constructed based on the operation of the Atlas/Centaur launch vehicle, the limits of the computers of that era, the limits of the computer programming languages, and the missions it supported are discussed. The vehicles DUKSUP supported (Atlas/Centaur, Titan/Centaur, and Shuttle/Centaur) are briefly described. The types of missions, including Earth orbital and interplanetary, are described. The roles of flight constraints and their impact on launch operations are detailed (such as jettisoning hardware on heating, Range Safety, ground station tracking, and elliptical parking orbits). The computer main frames on which the code was hosted are described. The applications of the code are detailed, including independent check of contractor analysis, benchmarking, leading edge analysis, and vehicle performance improvement assessments. Several of DUKSUP's many major impacts on launches are discussed including Intelsat, Voyager, Pioneer Venus, HEAO, Galileo, and Cassini.
Abstract refinement types

We present abstract refinement types which enable quantification over the refinements of data- and function-types. Our key insight is that we can avail of quantification while preserving SMT-based decidability, simply by encoding refinement parameters as uninterpreted propositions within the refinement logic. We illustrate how this mechanism yields a variety of sophisticated means for reasoning about programs, including: parametric refinements for reasoning with type classes, index-dependent refinements for reasoning about key-value maps, recursive refinements for reasoning about recursive data types, and inductive refinements for reasoning about higher-order traversal routines. We have implemented our approach in a refinement type checker for Haskell and present experiments using our tool to verify correctness invariants of various programs.
Retrograde transport of nerve growth factor (NGF) in motoneurons of developing rats: Assessment of potential neurotrophic effects

The potential functional significance of nerve growth factor (NGF) receptors in spinal motoneurons was studied in newborn rats. 125I-NGF was specifically retrogradely transported by motoneurons from their peripheral nerve terminals. This transport was blocked by an excess of unlabeled NGF but not by cytochrome c. 125I-cytochrome c was not transported. The monoclonal anti-rat NGF receptor antibody, but not a control antibody, was also transported. Despite this ability of motoneurons to transport NGF, treatment of newborn rats with this factor did not increase motoneuron size or synthesis of neurotransmitter enzymes and did not prevent cell death after axotomy. We conclude that NGF receptors of spinal motoneurons can bind, internalize, and retrogradely transport NGF. However, these receptors do not mediate the classic trophic effects of NGF.
Ligand-Selective Dissociation of Activation and Internalization of the Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Receptor: Conditional Efficacy of PTH Peptide Fragments

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) mediate the action of many hormones, cytokines, and sensory and chemical signals. It is generally thought that receptor desensitization and internalization require occupancy and activation of the GPCR. PTH and PTHrP receptor (PTH1R) belongs to GPCR class B and is the major regulator of extracellular calcium homeostasis. Using kidney distal convoluted tubule cells transfected with a human PTH1R/enhanced green fluorescent protein fusion protein, quantitative, real-time fluorescence microscopy was used to analyze receptor internalization. In these cells, which are the target of the calcium-sparing action of PTH, PTH(1-34) activated adenylyl cyclase (AC) and phospholipase C (PLC) and PTH1R endocytosis. PTH(1-31), however, stimulated AC and PLC but not PTH1R endocytosis. Conversely, PTH(7-34) rapidly stimulated PTH1R internalization without activating AC or PLC. PTH(2-34) and (3-34) caused PTH1R internalization intermediate between PTH(1-34) and (7-34). PTH1R sequestration occurred in a dynamin- and clathrin-dependent manner. Directly activating AC inhibited PTH1R internalization in response to PTH(7-34). PTH1R endocytosis was sensitive to protein kinase C inhibition. PTH(1-34), (7-34), and (1-31) evoked PTH1R phosphorylation. Removal of most of the C terminus of the PTH1R eliminated receptor phosphorylation and the cAMP/protein kinase C sensitivity of internalization. PTH(1-34) and (7-34) internalized the truncated PTH1R with identical kinetics, and the response was unaffected by forskolin. Thus, the PTH1R C terminus contains regulatory sequences that are involved in, but not required for, PTH1R internalization. The results demonstrate that receptor activation and internalization can be selectively dissociated.
Abnormalities of the electron transport chain in idiopathic parkinson's disease

Idiopathic Parkinson's disease may have a low-level familial association but does not follow mendelian patterns of inheritance. Since inheritance of some components of the electron transport chain is nonmendelian and since inhibition of the electron transport chain with the toxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine models Parkinson's disease in humans and animals, we evaluated catalytic activities of the electron transport chain in platelet mitochondria purified from patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. All 10 patients studied had significant reductions of complex I (NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase) activity. Succinate:cytochrome c oxidoreductase activity was less strikingly reduced. We hypothesize that the complex I abnormality may have an etiological role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease and that this defect may be derived via the mitochondrial genome.
Gene transfer to human joints: Progress toward a gene therapy of arthritis

This article describes the clinical application of gene therapy to a nonlethal disease, rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Intraarticular transfer of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) cDNA reduces disease in animal models of RA. Whether this procedure is safe and feasible in humans was addressed in a phase I clinical study involving nine postmenopausal women with advanced RA who required unilateral sialastic implant arthroplasty of the 2nd-5th metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints. Cultures of autologous synovial fibroblasts were established and divided into two. One was transduced with a retrovirus carrying IL-1Ra cDNA; the other provided untransduced, control cells. In a dose escalation, double-blinded fashion, two MCP joints were injected with transduced cells, and two MCP joints received control cells. One week later, injected joints were resected and examined for evidence of successful gene transfer and expression by using RT-PCR, ex vivo production of IL-1Ra, in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemistry. All subjects tolerated the protocol well, without adverse events. Unlike control joints, those receiving transduced cells gave positive RT-PCR signals. Synovia that were recovered from the MCP joints of intermediate and high dose subjects produced elevated amounts of IL-1Ra (P = 0.01). Clusters of cells expressing high levels of IL-1Ra were present on synovia of transduced joints. No adverse events occurred. Thus, it is possible to transfer a potentially therapeutic gene safely to human rheumatoid joints and to obtain intraarticular, transgene expression. This conclusion justifies additional efficacy studies and encourages further development of genetic approaches to the treatment of arthritis and related disorders.
Plasma Membrane Activities Retained after Lethal Heat Shock

Cultures of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells were examined to determine if heat killing could be attributed to severe damage in the plasma membrane. Three independent transport activities of the plasma membrane were measured. Glucose transport into the cells (measured with the non-metabolizable analogue 3-O-methyl-d-glucose) was stimulated rather than inhibited by heat. Most of the stimulation was found after non-toxic heat doses. Although amino acid transport (measured with the non-metabolizable analogue 2-aminoisobutyric acid) was slightly inhibited by heat, heat-sterilized cells were able to accumulate high intracellular concentrations. Cellular uptake of the nucleoside uridine was unaffected for at least 4 h after heating. In contrast, its incorporation into RNA was immediately inhibited. To further study plasma membrane damage, cells were either heated or treated with drugs which localize to the plasma membrane, ionophore A23187 or amphotericin B. The mode of cell killing by heat was radically diffe...
Analysis of checksums, extended-precision checksums, and cyclic redundancy checks

The effectiveness of extended-precision checksums is thoroughly analyzed. It is demonstrated that the extended-precision checksums most effectively exploit natural redundancy occurring in program codes. Honeywell checksums and cyclic redundancy checks are compared to extended-precision checksums. Two's complement, unsigned, and one's complement arithmetic checksums are treated in a unified manner. Results are also extended to any general radix-p arithmetic checksum. Asymptotic and closed-form formulas of aliasing probabilities for the various error models are derived. >
Tensile bond strengths of orthodontic bonding resins and attachments to etched enamel

The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the tensile bond strengths (TBS) of several orthodontic bonding systems and orthodontic brackets to enamel surfaces exposed to different etching procedures. The TBS of four bonding systems were determined by a test method developed by Kemper and Kilian. Twelve test specimens were prepared for each procedure. The test system was modified to determine the TBS of orthodontic brackets bonded to enamel surfaces by six bonding procedures and the TBS were evaluated 15 minutes and 24 hours after specimen preparation. The specimens were loaded to failure in an Instron machine operated at a crosshead speed of 0.02 inch/min. The TBS were expressed in MN.m-2. The TBS of the four bonding systems to etched enamel were not significantly different (P = 0.2528). The TBS of bonded brackets determined 24 hours after specimen preparation were not significantly different than the TBS recorded after 15 minutes except for brackets bonded with Lee Cleanse and Bond I to enamel surfaces etched with 15% H3PO4 for 30 seconds. The TBS of brackets to enamel etched with 15% H3PO4 for 30 seconds were not significantly different from the TBS to enamel surfaces etched with 5% H3PO4 for 15 seconds except for brackets bonded with Lee Cleanse and Bond II and tested 24 hours after bonding.
Consistency of information from persons with dementia: An analysis of differences by question type

This analysis examines the ability of persons with mild to moderate dementia (MMSE scores 13—30 and/or a dementia diagnosis) to provide consistent and accurate information. Data come from interviews with 213 persons with dementia (PWDs) and their family caregivers (CG). Consistency was assessed by determining agreement between responses provided by PWDs during two in-person interviews. Accuracy was assessed by determining agreement between PWD responses and CG responses. Overall, PWDs provided consistent and accurate responses to fact-based questions and were consistent in their responses to state-dependent items. Less impaired respondents were more consistent in their responses to fact-based items. Among respondents with more severe impairment, there were no significant differences in consistency by question type. This work responds to the need to gain a better understanding of the opinions and experiences of dementia and offers further evidence that many PWDs can provide consistent and accurate informat...
Dynamic positioning concepts and strategies for the mobile offshore base

The Mobile Offshore Base (MOB) is a large, self-propelled, floating, pre-positioned ocean structure formed of three to five modules and reaching up to 1,500 meters in length. In most concepts, the structure is made of several modules, which have to be kept tightly aligned under large environmental loads. The alignment is maintained through the use of thrusters, connectors, or a combination of both. We will address the general Dynamic Positioning (DP) problem for the MOB using an interdisciplinary approach that draws from ocean, electrical, civil and mechanical engineering. The system requirements are quite complex since the roles, relative positions and dependencies of the modules may change during operation, and the system is hybrid (it contains both continuous activities and discrete event features). A hierarchical control architecture has been designed and implemented, both in simulation and on a scaled model of the MOB. A simulation framework has been used to provide low-cost, fast and efficient evaluation of different control strategies and techniques. We are conducting experiments in which three 1:150 scale modules are kept aligned by pivoting thrusters and form a miniature runway. The paper addresses the control architecture and its implementation, both in simulation and in the real-time environment.
Evaluating clouds, aerosols, and their interactions in three global climate models using satellite simulators and observations

Accurately representing aerosol-cloud interactions in global climate models is challenging. As parameterizations evolve, it is important to evaluate their performance with appropriate use of observations. In this investigation we compare aerosols, clouds, and their interactions in three global climate models (Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory-Atmosphere Model 3 (AM3), National Center for Atmospheric Research-Community Atmosphere Model 5 (CAM5), and Goddard Institute for Space Studies-ModelE2) to Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite observations. Modeled cloud properties are diagnosed using a MODIS simulator. Cloud droplet number concentrations (N) are computed identically from satellite-simulated and MODIS-observed values of liquid cloud optical depth and droplet effective radius. We find that aerosol optical depth (τa) simulated by models is similar to observations in many regions around the globe. For N, AM3 and CAM5 capture the observed spatial pattern of higher values in coastal marine stratocumulus versus remote ocean regions, though modeled values, in general, are higher than observed. Aerosol-cloud interactions were computed as the sensitivity of ln(N) to ln(τa) for coastal marine liquid clouds near South Africa (SAF) and Southeast Asia where τa varies in time. AM3 and CAM5 are more sensitive than observations, while the sensitivity for ModelE2 is statistically insignificant. This widely used sensitivity could be subject to misinterpretation due to the confounding influence of meteorology on both aerosols and clouds. A simple framework for assessing the sensitivity of ln(N) to ln(τa) at constant meteorology illustrates that observed sensitivity can change from positive to statistically insignificant when including the confounding influence of relative humidity. Satellite-simulated versus standard model values of N are compared; for CAM5 in SAF, standard model values are significantly lower than satellite-simulated values with a bias of 83 cm−3.
Fast neutron resonance radiography for elemental imaging: theory and applications

Fast neutron resonance radiography (NRR) has been devised as an elemental imaging method with applications such as contraband detection and mineral analysis. In NRR, a two-dimensional (2-D) elemental mapping of hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and the sum of other elements is obtained from fast neutron radiographic images, taken at different neutron energies and chosen to cover the resonance cross-section features of one or more elements. Images are formed using a lens-coupled plastic scintillator charged coupled device (CCD) combination. In preliminary experiments, we have produced NRR images of various simulants using a variable energy beam based on the Li(p,n)Be reaction and a variable energy proton beam. As an alternative to this method, we have studied NRR imaging using the D-D reaction, d(d,He)n, at fixed incident D energy and scanning through various neutron energies by using the angular variation in neutron energy. The object and detector rotate together around the neutron source; different energy (2-6 MeV) neutrons can be obtained at different angles from the target. The radiographic transmission image provides a 2-D mapping of the sum of elemental contents (weighted by the attenuation coefficients). Transmission measurements taken at different neutron energies (angles) then form a set of linear equations, which can then be solved to map individual elemental contents.
The effect of curcumin on human islet amyloid polypeptide misfolding and toxicity

Type 2 diabetes involves aberrant misfolding of human islet amyloid polypeptide (h-IAPP) and resultant pancreatic amyloid deposits. Curcumin, a biphenolic small molecule, has offered potential benefits in other protein misfolding diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Our aim was to investigate whether curcumin alters h-IAPP misfolding and protects from cellular toxicity at physiologically relevant concentrations. The effect of curcumin on h-IAPP misfolding in vitro was investigated by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, ThT fluorescence and electron microscopy. Our in vitro studies revealed that curcumin significantly reduces h-IAPP fibril formation and aggregates formed in the presence of curcumin display alternative morphology and structure. We then tested a potential protective effect of curcumin against h-IAPP toxicity on β-cells. Micromolar concentrations of curcumin partially protect INS cells from exogenous IAPP toxicity. This protective effect, however, is limited to a narrow concentrat...
Profile of an Artifact Assessment Capability

The features of an emerging artifact assessment capability are outlined. Experience developing this capability has led to speculation about the role and practice of experimental software engineering. The objectives of identifying leading indicators and enabling us to “speak with data” are discussed. Viewing our industrial software projects as naturally occurring experiments (and possibly using them in a large, simple trials study) is suggested.
Competitive coevolution through evolutionary complexification

Two major goals in machine learning are the discovery and improvement of solutions to complex problems. In this paper, we argue that complexification, i.e. the incremental elaboration of solutions through adding new structure, achieves both these goals. We demonstrate the power of complexification through the NeuroEvolution of Augmenting Topologies (NEAT) method, which evolves increasingly complex neural network architectures. NEAT is applied to an open-ended coevolutionary robot duel domain where robot controllers compete head to head. Because the robot duel domain supports a wide range of strategies, and because coevolution benefits from an escalating arms race, it serves as a suitable testbed for studying complexification. When compared to the evolution of networks with fixed structure, complexifying evolution discovers significantly more sophisticated strategies. The results suggest that in order to discover and improve complex solutions, evolution, and search in general, should be allowed to complexify as well as optimize.
Racial Attitudes of Police Recruits at the United States Midwest Police Academy: A Second Examination

Schlosser (2013) discussed racial colorblindness data obtained from one police recruit academy class at the Midwest Police Academy (a pseudonym), USA. The data for this study were obtained from a different recruit class (N= 38) from the Midwest Police Academy and compared to Schlosser's. Schlosser (2013) learned that recruits enter the academy with a high level of racial colorblindness ideology. He also learned that those recruits' levels did not significantly decrease after attending academy training. I obtained similar results even after changing the cultural diversity training for the recruit class. A possible explanation could be the short amount of time allotted for this training.
Lifetime Exposure to Intimate Partner Violence and Proinflammatory Cytokine Levels Across the Perinatal Period.

Abstract Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a public health concern, affecting one-third of US women. Prior research suggests an association between exposure to IPV and poor maternal perinatal health, but the underlying biological correlates are not well understood. This study examined the relationship between exposure to IPV and proinflammatory cytokine levels, a candidate mechanism accounting for poor psychiatric and obstetric outcomes, across the perinatal period. Materials and Methods: Data were obtained from a prospective, longitudinal cohort study of 171 women receiving obstetrical care from a hospital-based practice serving a predominantly low-income minority population. Participants completed questionnaires on IPV exposure, psychiatric symptoms, and psychosocial and obstetric factors and provided blood samples at 18 and 32 weeks of gestation and 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum. Serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were assayed via enzyme-linked i...
Seismic Performance of Concrete-Filled Steel Tube to Concrete Pile-Cap Connections

AbstractThis study investigates the seismic behavior of the connection between concrete-filled steel tube piles and concrete pile caps. This connection is an important component of an accelerated bridge construction technique, which involves driving steel piles to a finished elevation just below the design deck level, forming a pile cap around the ends of the driven piles, reinforcing this cap, and then filling both the piles and formwork with concrete. This cap will then serve as the deck support system. In this research, a total of six connection specimens with various details were tested under lateral loads until failure while monitoring applied loads and lateral displacements. All of the specimens achieved the desired moment capacity, and all but one experienced a typical progression of damage in the concrete cap. This progression initiated with crushing of the concrete (interior and exterior), was followed by yielding of the longitudinal reinforcement, and concluded with yielding of the transverse re...
Search for structure in the fusion of O 16 + Ca 40

The fusion of $^{16}\mathrm{O}$ + $^{40}\mathrm{Ca}$ has been studied in small energy steps in the energy range $45\ensuremath{\le}{E}_{\mathrm{lab}}\ensuremath{\le}63$ MeV. Fusion cross sections were measured by the detection of evaporation residues in a $\ensuremath{\Delta}E\ensuremath{-}E$ particle telescope and by measurement of prompt $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray activity. The fusion excitation functions show relatively smooth behavior with no evidence for oscillatory structure of the magnitude observed in the fusion of $^{16}\mathrm{O}$ + $^{12}\mathrm{C}$.NUCLEAR REACTIONS $^{16}\mathrm{O}$+$^{40}\mathrm{Ca}$, ${E}_{\mathrm{lab}}=45\ensuremath{-}63$ MeV; measured ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{\mathrm{fusion}}$.
Three theorems on ρ* random fields

This paper generalizes results by Bradley.(3) Suppose that for 1=1,2,...Xk1:k ∈ ℤd is a centered, weakly stationary ρ*-mixing random field, and suppose liml→∞ Cov(X01,xk1) exists, anyk ∈ ℤd. Then the successive spectral densities converge uniformly to a continuous function. For a sequence of strictly stationary random fields that are uniformly ρ*-mixing and satisfy a indeberg condition, a CLT is proved for sequences of sums from the fields. This result is then applied: given a centered strictly stationary ρ*-mixing random field whose probability density and joint densities are continuous, then a kernel estimator for the probability density obeys the CLT.
Gaussian Elimination and Dynamical Systems

Kathie Yerion (yerion@gonzaga.edu) studied mathematics at the University of Montana (Ph.D. 1978) under the direc? tion of William R. Derrick. She began teaching mathematics in 1977 at Gonzaga University in Spokane, and since retraining at IFRICS she also teaches core courses and analytic upper-division courses in computer science. Her main teaching and research interests are in the applied analysis fields of partial differential equations and numerical analysis.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the bone marrow (MRBM) as an outcome measure for patients with metastatic prostate cancer

14521 Background: Previously we have shown that the distribution of osseous metastases in prostate cancer (PC) matched the distribution of the normal adult marrow. Over 90% of advanced PC patients have disease in bone. Imaging the marrow has the potential to allow detection of metastases before osseous response has occurred and provides a three dimensional volumetric measure that can be quantified and monitored serially for changes over time. We are examining the use of MRBM as an indicator of treatment effect in patients with metastatic PC. Methods: Patients with PC and 2 or more MRBM surveys were identified and extracted from a database of all patients at MSK who have had radiologic studies. Cases were further identified on the basis of having metastatic disease, followup MRBM within 4–7 months, concurrent PSA and bone scans. MRI reports were stratified as either “progression” or “stable/improved” assuming a clinician would change therapy if progression was documented. PSA was similarly recorded, using ...
Contextual care of the patient following weight-loss surgery: Relational views and maintenance activities of couples.

IntroductionMuch research has demonstrated the negative psychological effects of obesity, including low self‐esteem, confidence, and self‐worth (Moskovich, Hunger, & Mann, 2011). Further, there is a physiological consequence associated with the internalization of a fat identity and the stigma of
REVIEWING THE LAST HALF-DECADE

This chapter reviews the economic condition in the last 5 years. During the 30th regular session of the assembly, it was noted that in the first half of the decade there has been a succession of crucial events. The Assembly noted that during 1974 most commodity prices had slumped and existing structural imbalances in agricultural production had been aggravated by a continuation of unfavorable climatic conditions. Analyzing the events of the last 5 years in more detail, the assembly noted that developed countries had not, by and large, implemented the policy measures of the international development strategy, and indeed there has been some retrogression. A major area of shortfall was in the agricultural sector, where less than half the target rate of 4% was realized by the developing countries as a whole. The overall target of 8% per annum in manufacturing output was attained in general, and in some cases exceeded. A main factor conducive to the overall achievements of the developing countries during this period was trade.
Cyclin D3 Is Required for the Germinal Center Reaction

Abstract Germinal Centers (GC) of secondary lymphoid tissues are critical to mounting a high-affinity humoral immune response. B cells within the GC undergo rapid clonal expansion and selection while diversifying their antibody genes through class switch recombination and somatic hypermutation. Although it is generally believed that GC B cells employ a unique proliferative program to accommodate these processes, very little is known about how the GC-associated cell cycle is orchestrated. The D-type cyclins are important regulators of the G1 phase of the cell cycle and are the ultimate targets of many mitogenic and oncogenic stimuli. The Cyclin D3 gene is rearranged and over-expressed in certain mature B cell malignancies, and its overexpression has been reported to predict poor clinical outcome in patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma. It has been observed that during their development, B cells switch from expressing cyclin D2 to cyclin D3 when they are recruited into the GC response. It is unclear, however, whether this switch simply reflects a change in the transcription factors that govern cyclin expression or serves a biological mandate. Here we report that mice deficient in cyclin D3 are profoundly impaired in their ability to form GCs as measured by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. Production of antigen-specific antibodies and affinity maturation, as ascertained by ELISA, are concomitantly reduced in these animals. These phenotypes can be at least partially explained by a significant block in the G1-phase of the cell cycle of GC B cells in vivo. Interestingly, this block in the G1-S transition is observed despite an apparent compensatory increase in cyclin D2 expression. In addition, naive B cells activated in vitro by either LPS or LPS and IL-4 display only minor changes in cell-cycle profile, suggesting that a specific requirement for cyclin D3 is unique to GC B cells. We also find moderately reduced Bcl6 mRNA expression in both naive and GC B cells from the cyclin D3 knockout mice. Since Bcl6 is a master regulator of the GC response, decreased activity of this transcriptional repressor may further contribute to the severity of the GC phenotype. This is the first demonstration that cyclin D3 plays a unique role during the GC response in that it is required for its optimal structure and function. In addition to expanding appreciation for the cell type- and tissue-specific functions of the three D-type cyclin molecules, our findings have implications for understanding the role of Cyclin D3 in human B cell lymphomas.
Effects of D-ring substituents on antiprogestational (antagonist) and progestational (agonist) activity of 11β-aryl steroids

The discovery of antiprogestational steroids by the Roussel-Uclaf group not only was a major scientific advance but also opened the way to new methods of fertility control and new therapies for such conditions as cancer. RU486, the prototype of the series, is distinguished by a p-(N,N-dimethylaminophenyl) substituent at the 11 beta- position of the steroid framework, a 4,9-dien-3-one system and 17 beta-hydroxy-17 alpha-propynyl substituents. We examined the effect of varying the 17 alpha- substituent in 17 beta-hydroxy compounds analogous to RU486, the effect of introducing a progesterone side chain at C-17, and the effects of further substitution at C-17 alpha and C-16 alpha on the activity of these latter compounds. These studies indicate an important role for D-ring substituents in determining the balance of agonist/antagonist activity in this series. For example, 17 alpha-acetoxy-17 beta-acetyl substitution gave a potent antagonist, whereas 16 alpha-ethyl-17 beta-acetyl substitution resulted in a compound with potent progestational (agonist) activity. The compounds present opportunities for further interesting and useful biological investigations.
The circulation of ghostly women and Li Yongping’s affective Sinophone Malaysian identity:

Li Yongping’s writing displays an acute sensitivity to the changing cultural and historical positioning of the Sinophone Malaysian (Mahua) community and his own migratory experiences. This article ...