cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The 1981–1984 automobile fuel economy standards—Can they be achieved?

Abstract The current automobile fuel economy standards were established in June 1977. Several studies completed since then recommended that the Department of Transportation (DOT) modify the current schedule. However, all of the studies were completed before the 1979 gasoline shortage. This paper compares the studies performed to assess alternative schedules and identifies major differences. Major differences among the studies include the definition of‘economic practicability’, cost estimates, estimates of automobile sales losses, and the impact of EPA test procedures. The results of the comparison, along with an analysis of the mix of new cars sold and used car prices since the gasoline shortage, are used to determine if the current schedule can be achieved. Observations regarding improvements to the fuel economy programme for establishing post-1985 standards are also presented.
Feasibility of ultrasonic measurements for characterizing rheological properties of asphalt binders

Abstract Ultrasonic measurement (UM) may provide an inexpensive alternative to sophisticated tests currently used to characterize rheological properties of asphalt binders. This research investigates the feasibility of application of high frequency immersion UM to characterize performance grade (PG) asphalt binders. Nine different PG asphalt binders were selected for this investigation. Short term aged, long term aged and un-aged samples were prepared for ultrasonic measurements. For each binder, velocity ( V ) and integrated response ( IR ) of the ultrasonic wave were measured at five temperatures. Mechanical test to obtain rheological properties were also performed on the same asphalt binder grades. Variation of ultrasonic measured parameters with temperature was studied. Correlations between the ultrasonic measurements and rheological properties were explored. Results indicated that ultrasonic velocity of the asphalt binders decreases with increase in their temperature. Modified asphalt binders showed lower velocity compared to un-modified ones.
A Comparison of Mesh Refinement in the Global MPAS-A and WRF Models Using an Idealized Normal-Mode Baroclinic Wave Simulation

AbstractIdealized normal-mode baroclinic wave simulations are conducted to examine the impact of continuous mesh refinement compared with stepwise changes in resolution using nested grids. The nested-grid results are produced using the Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-ARW) Model, hereafter ARW, and the continuous refinement results are produced using the atmospheric component of the Model for Prediction Across Scales-Atmosphere (MPAS-A). For the nested domain simulations with the ARW, variants of both one-way and two-way nesting techniques are examined. Significant reflection and distortion of waves are evident in results using one-way nesting, with the error increasing with decreasing boundary-update frequency. With continuous updating of the boundary conditions in one-way and two-way nesting, wave distortion is still evident near the lateral boundaries but the distortion is much less than with infrequent boundary updates. The conformal Voronoi meshes in MPAS provide a much smoothe...
Flavor twisted boundary conditions and isovector form factors

We use vector flavor symmetry to relate form factors of isospin changing operators to isovector form factors. Flavor twisted boundary conditions in lattice QCD thus allow isovector form factors of twist-two operators, e.g., to be computed at continuous values of the momentum transfer. These twisted boundary conditions, moreover, are implemented only in the valence sector. Effects of the finite volume must be addressed to extract isovector moments and radii from states projected onto zero Fourier momentum. As an example, we use chiral perturbation theory to assess the volume effects in extracting the isovector magnetic moment of the nucleon from simulations with twisted boundary conditions.
Fault-tolerant thresholds for encoded ancillae with homogeneous errors

I describe a procedure for calculating thresholds for quantum computation as a function of error model given the availability of ancillae prepared in logical states with independent, identically distributed errors. The thresholds are determined via a simple counting argument performed on a single qubit of an infinitely large Calderbank-Shor-Steane code. I give concrete examples of thresholds thus achievable for both Steane and Knill style fault-tolerant implementations and investigate their relation to threshold estimates in the literature.
This systematic review empirically documents that the effectiveness of Orton-Gillingham and Orton-Gillingham-based reading instruction remains to be determined1

How effective are Orton–Gillingham (OG) and Orton–Gillingham-based (OG-based) programs in improving reading and reading-related outcomes for K–16 students? 1 Abstracted from: Ritchey, K.D., & Goeke...
A new member to the astasin family of metalloendopeptidases: A novel 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D-3-stimulated mRNA from chorioallantoic membrane of quail

Abstract 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D-3 is essential for the utilization of eggshell calcium by avian embryo through the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). A cDNA library was constructed from poly(A)+ RNA extracted from vitamin D-deficient CAMs given 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D-3. Screening this library by differential hybridization yielded a full-length (∼ 1.8 kb) cDNA, whose corresponding mRNA is increased 3-fold 2.5 h after a single injection of 1,25-(OH)2D3. The complete nucleotide sequence for the full-length cDNA has been determined. An open-reading frame, corresponding to a 310 amino acid, 41 kDa protein was found. Searching protein sequence data bases revealed a strong similarity to the following proteases: astacin, a crayfish digestive protease, Oryzias latipes hatching enzyme constituent protease (Orz), Xenopus laevis developmentally regulated UVS.2 protein secreted by the hatching gland of embryos, the NH2-terminal domain of human bone morphogenetic protein (BMP-1) and Drosophila dorsal-ventral patterning tolloid. The cDNA has approximately 36% overall identity with astacin and BMP-1, and is more than 60% identical to either Orz or UVS.2. Moreover, multiple alignment analysis indicates that 37 residues, including 3 cysteine residues, are strictly conserved in the complete 200-amino acid astacin sequence. All 6 proteins contain a zinc-binding motif (HEXXH), found at the active site of most metalloendopeptidases. This motif is found within an extended sequence of HEXXHXXGFXHE that is unique to this subgroup of metalloendopeptidases. In addition, the 6 proteins have 50% identity (including the present cDNA) and 79% are conserved in 4 of these proteins in a 24-amino acid sequence that includes the putative active site. The level of mRNA for the new protein reaches a maximum at day 12 of embryonic life and declines thereafter. It is suggested that this clone corresponds to an mRNA encoding for a protease that may play a role in the degradation of eggshell matrix.
Variation in frequency of transformation by plasmid YRp7 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Abstract Hybrid plasmid YRp7 (Escherichia coli plasmid pBR322 carrying a 1.4-kb yeast fragment containing the TRP1 gene) transforms two related haploid yeast strains (trp1) to Trp+ at frequencies per μg DNA varying by two orders of magnitude. The diploid cross of these two strains is transformed at a frequency less than that of the low-frequency parent, indicating that high-frequency transformation is inherited in a recessive fashion. Segregant strains of two tetrads of this cross showed intermediate levels of transformability, suggesting the polygenic inheritance of transformation frequency. Levels of variation are changed extensively when frequencies are expressed as transformants per regenerated spheroplast colony, although the inheritance of higher frequency remains clearly recessive. Storage of spheroplast-DNA preparations at 4°C increases the yield of transformants with some strains.
Schlafstörungen im Kontext der Autonomieentwicklung

In dieser Arbeit soll auf die Problematik von Eltern mit schlafgestorten Sauglingen und Kleinkindern eingegangen werden, fur die Verhaltensanweisungen bzw. Selbsthilfemasnahmen [17, 33] allein nicht ausreichen.Dabei werden Schlafstorungen im Kontext der Autonomieentwicklung betrachtet. Es folgt eine Veranschaulichung tiefenpsychologisch orientierter Interventionen anhand von Fallbeispielen.
Testicular control of prostaglandin E2 production in rat vas deferens.

Orchidectomy decreased and testosterone (T) replacement restored prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) concentrations in adult rat vas deferens. To explain this finding, phospholipase A (PLase-A) and PG synthetic activity were studied in vas tissue from 9-week-old rats orchidectomized with or without T replacement as well as in rats in which the cauda epididymidis was ligated. PG synthetic activity fell to 3% of intact levels in 14- day castrate rats and was restored to normal by T replacement. Although vas PLase-A activity was also significantly (P < 0.01) reduced to 38% of the control level in 14-day castrate rats, this change appears in part to reflect a castration-related increase in endogenous phospholipid concentrations. Further, T replacement only partially restored PLase-A activity to 59% of intact levels. Ligation of the cauda epididymidis in intact rats reduced vas PLase-A activity to castrate levels without altering vas T concentration. These results demonstrate both a direct effect of T on the biosynthesis ...
Propagation in correlated distributions of large-spaced scatterers

Simple asymptotic approximations are derived for the bulk coherent propagation coefficient (K) in pair-correlated distributions of obstacles with minimum separation (b) between particle centers large compared to wavelength (λ). The size of the scatterer (maximum diameter 2a ≤ b) is arbitrary compared to λ. The functional equation for K involves only the forward-scattered and backscattered amplitudes of an obstacle and simple integrals of the total correlation function (F). For large particles with small refractive contrast, the leading terms differ from the leading terms for small-spaced particles in that the scattering cross-section term involves a different packing factor (W). The present W depends on 2a/b and the zeroth moment of F, whereas for small spacing W is the limit of the structure factor for small b/λ. Higher-order terms involving the first and second moments of F are also derived, and the forms are applied to obtain explicit results for spheroids in terms of the volume fraction of statistical particles. More generally, the initial functional equation can be evaluated in terms of existing tabulated values of F.
Large-angle x-ray scatter in Talbot-Lau interferometry for breast imaging.

Monte Carlo simulations were used to investigate large-angle x-ray scatter at design energy of 25 keV during small field of view (9.6 cm × 5 cm) differential phase contrast imaging of the breast using Talbot-Lau interferometry. Homogenous, adipose and fibroglandular breasts of uniform thickness ranging from 2 to 8 cm encompassing the field of view were modeled. Theoretically determined transmission efficiencies of the gratings were used to validate the Monte Carlo simulations, followed by simulations to determine the x-ray scatter reaching the detector. The recorded x-ray scatter was classified into x-ray photons that underwent at least one Compton interaction (incoherent scatter) and Rayleigh interaction alone (coherent scatter) for further analysis. Monte Carlo based estimates of transmission efficiencies showed good correspondence (r2 > 0.99) with theoretical estimates. Scatter-to-primary ratio increased with increasing breast thickness, ranging from 0.11 to 0.22 for 2 to 8 cm thick adipose breasts and from 0.12 to 0.28 for 2 to 8 cm thick fibroglandular breasts. The analyzer grating reduced incoherent scatter by ~18% for 2 cm thick adipose breast and by ~35% for 8 cm thick fibroglandular breast. Coherent scatter was the dominant contributor to the total scatter. Coherent-to-incoherent scatter ratio ranged from 2.2 to 3.1 for 2 to 8 cm thick adipose breasts and from 2.7 to 3.4 for 2 to 8 cm thick fibroglandular breasts.
Multifractality in a broad class of disordered systems.

We study multifractality in a broad class of disordered systems which includes, e.g., the diluted $x\text{\ensuremath{-}}y$ model. Using renormalized field theory we analyze the scaling behavior of cumulant averaged dynamical variables (in case of the $x\text{\ensuremath{-}}y$ model the angles specifying the directions of the spins) at the percolation threshold. Each of the cumulants has its own independent critical exponent, i.e., there are infinitely many critical exponents involved in the problem. Working out the connection to the random resistor network, we determine these multifractal exponents to two-loop order. Depending on the specifics of the Hamiltonian of each individual model, the amplitudes of the higher cumulants can vanish and in this case, effectively, only some of the multifractal exponents are required.
Nutrient cycling and productivity in a desert saline lake: observations from a dry, low-productivity year

Seasonal variability of nutrients and productivity were examined in Pyramid Lake, a hyposaline, N-deficient, terminal desert lake, during a dry period. River inflow and N-fixation during 1990 were minimal allowing internal nutrient cycling to be more closely studied. Nutrient cycling was strongly affected by seasonal thermal stratification that was typical for a warm monomictic lake. Concentrations of nitrate, phosphate, and silicate in surface waters were highest during winter mixing and decreased rapidly in the spring due to a diatom bloom. Maximum average chlorophyll concentration in surface waters was 2.7 ± 1.2 µg 1−1 and occurred in April while surface nutrients were being depleted. In contrast to chlorophyll, maximum particulate carbon in surface waters occurred in July–August when areal productivity was highest (367–398 mg C m−2 day−1). Concurrent with spring nutrient depletion in surface waters was increasing N-deficiency in the plankton. After the spring bloom dissipated in May, particulate matter (POM) became increasingly N-deficient reaching maximum elemental C : N of > 18 during summer-fall. Profiles of the C : N ratio of POM were nearly constant with depth for individual sampling dates suggesting that the residence time of POM in the water column was short (< 1 month). While surface waters were nutrient depleted during summer stratification, nutrient concentrations of bottom waters progressively increased, presumably through the oxidation of POM sinking to the bottom (103 m). Converting the rate of oxygen depletion in bottom waters to carbon equivalents of POM suggests that 42 % of mean annual phytoplankton production in overlying waters during 1990 was mineralized in bottom waters.
Seasonal Distribution of the Lesser Peachtree Borer in Central Georgia as Monitored by Pupal Skin Counts and Pheromone Trapping Techniques

Seasonal distribution of the lesser peachtree borer, Synanthedon pictipes (Grote and Robinson), was monitored from 1967–1975 in central Georgia by counting the pupal skins found on trees and by recording male captures in sticky traps baited with synthetic pheromone in peach orchards. Counts of pupal skins on selected trees in the same orchard over 3 yr revealed that the population of borers increased substantially between 1967 and 1970, even though insecticides were being used. Insecticides, however, were not directed towards lesser peachtree borers but to fruit insect pests. Orchards with both high and low populations could be indexed by using the pupal skin counts and the captures of males in traps baited with synthetic pheromone. However, only high populations provided adequate data to confirm 2 peaks of adult eclosion with either sampling method. The spring (1st) peak always occurred in May; a 2nd peak was usually evident in August or September. However, a 2nd peak occurred in late July (1974) at Zenith, Georgia, and there were indications of a third peak during September. In this same orchard, captures of males in sticky traps baited with synthetic pheromone were very similar to the eclosion pattern made from pupal skin counts.
Servings of Grain Products, Vegetables and Fruits Influence Nutrient Quality of Young Adult Diets

Abstract Three hundred sixty-two people between the ages of 19 and 24 years were chosen from the 1994 and 1995 Continuing Survey(s) of Food Intakes by Individuals (CSFII) with exclusion of those who were pregnant or lactating, on special diets including vegetarian, allergic to any food, or failed to complete two day dietary recalls. Descriptive statistics and Student's t-tests were performed. It was found that for our young adult sample, the intake of the fruit group was noticeably below the recommendation. Variety and proportionality within the grain products group and the vegetable group were missing in young adult's diets. Compared to females, males had higher mean servings for all three food groups and higher intakes of energy and nutrients. However, percent calories from fat were above the 30% limit for both genders. The average calcium and folate intake levels were alarmingly low for the females, while fiber was notably low for both genders. As higher numbers of servings were consumed, men had significantly increased energy and nutrient intakes but this did not hold true for the women. Percent fat calories were numerically lower with higher intakes of fruit and grains, but greater with higher vegetable consumption probably due to high fried potato intake and/or too much added fat. The research implied that, for 19-to-24-year-olds, balancing the food groups and nutritious foods within the groups coupled with reducing fat is especially important.
Overview of Special Issue Articles

The articles in this special issue all address questions of how family members adapt their privacy management to change. In each of these studies, change occurs for these families both in terms of ...
Getting sepsis therapy right

Sepsis—a complication of infection—is a factor in at least a third of all hospital deaths—a sobering statistic ( 1 ). Patients with sepsis frequently present with fever, shock, and multiorgan failure. Because of this dramatic clinical scenario, investigators have generally assumed that sepsis mortality is due to unbridled inflammation ( 2 ). Research in animal models, in which administration of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor–α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 (IL-1) reproduced many features of sepsis, supported that assertion. Yet, over 40 clinical trials of agents that block cytokines, pathogen recognition, or inflammation-signaling pathways have universally failed ( 3 , 4 ). However, on page 1260 of this issue, Weber et al. ( 5 ) show that blocking a cytokine—specifically, IL-3—can indeed be protective against sepsis.
Torsion dystonia, conversion hysteria, and occupational cramps.

Abstract The field of torsion dystonia is rich in implications for psychiatry. At long last one has the means for approaching cases, often hitherto considered intractable examples of conversion hysteria and psychophysiologic disorders, with rational principles of etiology and treatment. Many unusual and mystifying disorders can now be studied with fresh understanding. It is especially the action dystonias and the occupational cramps that have light shed on them which has long been lacking. Much in the pathophysiology of the dystonias remains to be investigated.
Stereoselective synthesis of the obscure mealybug pheromone by hydrogenation of a tetrasubstituted alkene precursor

An improved diastereoselective synthesis of (1R∗,2R∗,3S∗)-1-acetoxymethyl-2,3,4,4-tetramethylcyclopentane 1, the sex pheromone of the obscure mealybug, Pseudococcus viburni, is described. The key step was diastereoselective catalytic hydrogenation of the tetrasubstituted double bond in 2,3,4,4-tetramethyl-cyclopent-2-enone 4 to give the thermodynamically less favored cis-2,3,4,4-tetramethyl-cyclopentanone 3a.
Examining system-wide impacts of solar PV control systems with a power hardware-in-the-loop platform

High penetration levels of distributed solar PV power generation may lead to adverse power quality impacts. Advanced inverter control schemes have the potential to mitigate many power quality concerns. However, interactions between local closed-loop controls may lead to unintended behavior in deployed systems. To study the performance of advanced control schemes in a detailed distribution system environment, a test platform has been developed that integrates Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) with concurrent time-series electric distribution system simulation. In the test platform, GridLAB-D, a distribution system simulation tool, runs a detailed simulation of a distribution feeder in real-time mode at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and supplies power system parameters at a point of common coupling. At the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), a hardware inverter interacts with grid and PV simulators emulating an operational distribution system. The platform is described and initial test cases are presented.
SU-E-J-125: Uncertainty in Accumulated Dose to the Cochlea Due to Setup Error during External Beam Treatment of Head & Neck Cancer Patients.

Purpose:Treatment uncertainties are not included in modeling dose response of hearing loss. We determine uncertainty of accumulated dose to cochleas of head & neck cancer patients due to setup error during treatments of external beam IMRT.Methods: We studied 8 patients: 1 planning CT for each patient and total 40 cone beam CTs. Those patients were treated with 33 fractions. Treatments delivered 70 Gy to PTV, 50 to 60 Gy to nodal and sub‐clinical disease using IMRT dose painting. Setup error was measured using 6‐dimensional rigid registration between planning CT and cone beam scans obtained prior to treatment. Planning CTs were transformed and resliced to produce ‘treatment CTs’ according to the measured setup error matrix to simulate the cochlea position during treatment. We calculated dose delivered to cochleas at each treatment position. Treated dose to the cochlea from each fraction was accumulated on the planning CT using its registration with each ‘treatment CT’. Results: The RMS value of set error of left cochlea is 0.48pm0.28cm, right cochlea is 0.47pm0.26cm. Mean values of left and right cochleas are ∼zero. Uncertainty in the dose to cochlea depends on each treatment plan and relative positions of the cochlea and target volumes. Average uncertainty of mean dose to cochlea is 5.0%, or 5.2cGy per fraction. Conclusion: Patient setup error introduces uncertainty to the position of the cochlea and consequent uncertainties in accumulated dose. Our method calculates accumulated dose delivered to the same cochlea volume at different treatment positions due to setup error. We found uncertainty in cochlea doses was 5% of planned dose after 4 to 7 fractions. The largest uncertainty was 17 cGy per fraction. Our Results will be used to determine uncertainties in dose response of hearing loss in head and neck patients. NIH R01‐CA129182
Elucidation of Nuclear and Organellar Genomes of Gossypium hirsutum: Furthering Studies of Species Evolution and Applications for Crop Improvement.

Plant genomes are larger and more complex than other eukaryotic organisms, due to small and large duplication events, recombination and subsequent reorganization of the genetic material. Commercially important cotton is the result of a polyploidization event between Old and New World cottons that occurred over one million years ago. Allotetraploid cotton has properties that are dramatically different from its progenitors—most notably, the presence of long, spinnable fibers. Recently, the complete genome of a New World cotton ancestral species, Gossypium raimondii, was completed. Future genome sequencing efforts are focusing on an Old World progenitor, G. arboreum. This sequence information will enable us to gain insights into the evolution of the cotton genome that may be used to understand the evolution of other plant species. The chloroplast genomes of multiple cotton species and races have been determined. This information has also been used to gain insight into the evolutionary history of cotton. Analysis of the database of nuclear and organellar sequences will facilitate the identification of potential genes of interest and subsequent development of strategies for improving cotton.
Diagnosis of hepatitis C

Currently, the second- and third-generation enzyme immunoassays (EIA-2 and EIA-3) for hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV) are the most practical screening tests for the diagnosis of HCV infection. The need for and the choice of supplementary or confirmatory tests depend on the clinical setting and the likelihood of a true-positive EIA result. Detection of HCV RNA in serum by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay is the gold standard for the diagnosis of HCV infection. However, the lack of uniformity in current PCR assays has tarnished this standard. Confirmatory tests for the diagnosis of HCV infection are in general unnecessary in anti-HCV-positive patients who present with chronic liver disease. When indicated, the most appropriate test in this setting is a qualitative PCR assay for HCV RNA. Confirmatory tests should always be performed in anti-HCV-positive blood donors and individuals with normal aminotransferase levels. The most appropriate approach is to retest for anti-HCV using recombinant immunoblot assay (RIBA) and then test for HCV RNA using PCR assay in those who are RIBA positive or indeterminate. Liver histology is the gold standard in assessing severity of liver disease. Quantitative tests for serum HCV RNA levels do not help to determine the severity of liver disease. At the moment, HCV genotyping should be considered a research tool and not a part of the diagnostic work-up in clinical practice. The goals of treatment for chronic hepatitis C are sustained biochemical and virological response. Viral clearance should be determined by qualitative PCR assay. Quantifying serum HCV RNA level can help in predicting response to interferon treatment, but further studies using more standardized assays are needed to determine if these values can be used to select patients for treatment.
Patterning of Nanoporous Anodic Aluminum Oxide Arrays by Using Sol−Gel Processing, Photolithography, and Plasma Etching

Patterned anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) arrays were fabricated by using sol−gel processing, photolithography, plasma etching, and two-step anodization. The fabrication process included the following general steps. First, a layer of aluminum was evaporated onto silicon wafers. Second, a silica layer was deposited by spin-coating a sol. Next, a patterned layer of a photoresist was deposited by standard photolithographic procedures. Subsequently, the pattern of photoresist was transferred to the underlying layer of silica by fluorocarbon plasma etching. Finally, AAO arrays were formed by the two-step anodization of exposed aluminum (e.g., not covered by silica). Deposition and etching of the silica layer were monitored by spectroscopic ellipsometry. Electrical measurements were performed to investigate the ability of the silica layer to act as a barrier that prevents anodization of aluminum. The structure of patterned AAO arrays was studied by scanning electron microscopy. A clear boundary was observed between...
Molecular Mechanisms of Signal Integration in Hypothalamic Neurons

Synopsis. The purpose of this paper is to describe our studies focused on the mechanisms by which hypothalamic neurons process multiple signals and produce an integrated response. We illustrate our research strategy by reviewing our work on two separate neural systems: the hypo? thalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). We have focused on different peptidergic subpopulations within these nuclei to address two issues. In the PVN, we concentrate on the population of neurons containing thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). These neurons are inhibited by thyroid hormones, but activated by cold exposure. Using a molecular approach, we have demonstrated that these conflicting signals simultaneously act on the same population of TRH neurons. This system will continue to be a productive model to study the mechanisms by which neurons process multiple signals. In the SCN, we concentrate on the population of neurons containing vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), peptide histidine isoleucine (PHI) and gastrin releasing peptide (GRP). We have demonstrated that injection of all three peptides into the SCN of hamsters mimics the phase-delaying effects of light on circadian wheel running behavior. In addition, the genes encoding these peptides exhibit different 24-hour profiles of changes in neurons of the SCN. These data support the hypothesis that one mechanism by which these neurons produce an integrated response is by changing the concen? tration ratio of co-released peptides.
Naturally evolved G protein-coupled receptors adopt metastable conformations

A wide range of membrane receptors signal through conformational changes, and the resulting protein conformational flexibility often hinders their structural studies. Because the determinants of membrane receptor conformational stability are still poorly understood, identifying a minimal set of perturbations stabilizing a membrane protein in a given conformation remains a major challenge in membrane protein structure determination. We present a novel approach integrating bioinformatics, computational design and experimental techniques that identifies and stabilizes metastable receptor regions. When applied to the beta1-adrenergic receptor, the method generated 13 novel receptor variants stabilized in the intended inactive state among which two exhibit an apparent thermostability higher than WT and M23 (a receptor variant previously stabilized by extensive scanning mutagenesis) by more than 30 °C and 11 °C, respectively. Targeted regions involve nonconserved unsatisfied polar residues or exhibit significant packing defects, features found in all class A G protein-coupled receptor structures. These findings suggest that natural G protein-coupled receptor sequences have evolved to be conformationally metastable through the design of suboptimal polar and van der Waals tertiary interactions. Given sufficiently accurate structural models, our approach should prove useful for designing stabilized variants of many uncharacterized membrane receptors.
Solid-state 113Cd NMR studies of metal-binding to a Datura innoxia biomaterial

Abstract The use of both slurry and solid-state 113 Cd NMR has been applied to the investigation of the chemical moieties involved in cadmium ion binding to a biosorbent. This material was derived from fragments of cell walls cultured from the plant Datura innoxia . Comparison of the −14-ppm chemical shift of the bound metal ion with that of model ligands directly demonstrated the involvement of carboxylate-containing binding sites. The application of solid-state cross-polarization magic angle spinning techniques to the metal-bound material yielded a broad resonance. This was interpreted as indicative of the presence of a distribution of chemically similar sites.
Will daughters walk mom’s talk? The effects of maternal communication about sex on the sexual behavior of female adolescents

Numerous social marketing campaigns exhort parents to talk to their children about sexual abstinence, pregnancy risk, and sexually transmitted disease prevention. The effectiveness of these conversations is difficult to ascertain if parents are more likely to broach discussions related to sexual activity with adolescents who have greater propensities to engage in these risky behaviors. Our baseline empirical results indicate that female adolescents whose mothers communicate more about sex are more likely to have sexual intercourse, practice unsafe sex, and engage in casual sex. However, once we control for the adolescent’s environment and peers through the use of school fixed effects and for the daughter’s own propensity to engage in such behaviors through a rich set of adolescent-specific covariates, the effect of a mother’s talk on her daughter’s behavior is reduced dramatically indicating that mother’s talk is endogenous to the daughter’s sexual behavior. Models employing sister fixed effects to control for family-level unobservables, although imprecisely estimated, confirm this finding.
Searching human brain for mechanisms of psychiatric disorders. Implications for studies on schizophrenia.

Abstract In the past 25 years, research on the human brain has been providing a clear path toward understanding the pathophysiology of psychiatric illnesses. The successes that have been accrued are matched by significant difficulties identifying and controlling a large number of potential confounding variables. By systematically and effectively accounting for unwanted variance in data from imaging and postmortem human brain studies, meaningful and reliable information regarding the pathophysiology of human brain disorders can be obtained. This perspective paper focuses on postmortem investigations to discuss some of the most challenging sources of variance, including diagnosis, comorbidity, substance abuse and pharmacological treatment, which confound investigations of the human brain.
Seasons, Singularities, and Climatic Changes over the Midlatitudes of the Northern Hemisphere during 1899–1969

Abstract The annual regime of atmospheric circulation over the midlatitudes of the Northern Hemisphere for the years 1899–1969 was determined by factor analysis of daily frequencies of Dzerdzeevskii's Northern Hemisphere extratropical latitude circulation types. This analysis found seasons separated by abrupt circulation transitions. Other singularities including Indian summer and the January thaw were identified in the hemispheric circulation. In the mean, summer circulation occurred during 17 June to 31 August, autumn 1 September to 22 October, winter 23 October to 8 March, and spring 9 March to 16 June. Indian summer episodes occurred in late September, mid-October, and mid-November. The January thaw singularity occurred most often during 18–25 January. Maxima in meridional circulation occurred in spring during April and May. The timing of singularities and length of seasons differed among three climatic episodes within the 1899–1969 period of analysis. The warm episode, 1920–52, had the longest summer...
Clear air turbulence: detection by infrared observations of water vapor.

"Forward-looking" infrared measurements of water vapor from the C-141A Kuiper Airborne Observatory of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Ames Research Center show large, distinctly identifiable, signal anomalies from 4 to 10 minutes in advance of subsequent encounters with clear air turbulence (CAT). These anomalies are characteristically different from the signals not followed by CAT encounters. Results of airborne field trials in which the infrared radiometer was used indicate that, out of 51 situations, 80 percent were CAT alerts followed by CAT encounters, 12 percent were "false alarms" (CAT alerts not followed by CAT encounters), and 8 percent were CAT encounters not preceded by an infrared signal anomaly or CAT alert.
Boussinesq-Green-Naghdi rotational water wave theory

article i nfo Using Boussinesq scaling for water waves while imposing no constraints on rotationality, we derive and test model equations for nonlinear water wave transformation over varying depth. These use polynomial basis functions to create velocity profiles which are inserted into the basic equations of motion keeping terms up to the desired Boussinesq scaling order, and solved in a weighted residual sense. The models show rapid convergence to exact solutions for linear dispersion, shoaling, and orbital velocities; however, properties may be substantially improved for a given order of approximation using asymptotic rearrangements. This improvement is accomplished using the large numbers of degrees of freedom inherent in the definitions of the polynomial basis functions either to match additional terms in a Taylor series, or to minimize errors over a range. Explicit coefficients are given at O(μ 2 )a ndO(μ 4 ), while more generalized basis functions are given at higher order. Nonlinear performance is somewhat more limited as, for reasons of complexity, we only provide explicitly lower order nonlinear terms. Still, second order harmonics may remain good to kh ≈10 for O(μ 4 ) equations. Numerical tests for wave transformation over a shoal show good agreement with experiments. Future work will harness the full rotational performance of these systems by incorporat- ing turbulent and viscous stresses into the equations, making them into surf zone models.
ALKANE ISOMERIZATION OVER SOLID ACID CATALYSTS : EFFECTS OF ONE-DIMENSIONAL MICROPORES

Abstract Isomerization of small alkanes is compared over two bifunctional catalysts with similar concentrations of metal and acid sites and similar strenths of Bronsted acid sites. The catalytic performance and the kinetic parameters are significantly different for Pt/H-Mor and Pt/ZrO 2 SO 4 catalysts. Under conditions where n-butane isomerization is rapid over Pt/ZrO 2 SO 4 , it is undetectable over Pt/H-Mor. The apparent activation energy of n-pentane isomerization is significantly higher over the zeolite based catalyst. These differences can be rationalized in terms of different pore geometries: in the one-dimensional pore system of mordenite the rates of monomolecular reactions are single file diffusion controlled; as a result, bimolecular processes such as isomerization via intermediate dimer formation are all but impossible. Likewise, hydride ion transfer, which is the chain propagation step in alkane reactions via carbenium ions, is sterically inhibited in micropores and replaced by a process involving Pt-proton adducts.
Local energy transfer to TLDs by neutrons and photons

Abstract The local energy transferred from neutrons and photons to TLD materials with respect to energy transferred to biological tissues or air has been calculated. Experimental response of TLDs was measured for protons with energies above 1.5 keV.
Ureteric reflux in adults and children treated exclusively by endoscopic Teflon injection: a 10-year experience.

Background: Since 1988 the author has used only endoscopic injection of Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene) paste in the correction of ureteric reflux, in adults and children. Methods: The present paper reports a series of 32 patients, 18 children and 14 adults, with 45 refluxing ureters so treated. Intra-operative cystogram was carried out and a second Teflon paste injection was given under the same anaesthetic where persistent reflux was demonstrated after the initial Teflon injection, to reduce the number of anaesthetics given. Results: In those patients who consented to a delayed cystogram after the first injection of Teflon, there was a cure rate of 83.3% in children and 70% in adults from that first injection. Conclusion: Endoscopic retro-ureteric injection of Teflon paste is done as a day case under general anaesthesia and causes the patient no pain postoperatively. It gives a high cure rate and is an option that should be offered to every patient where a decision has been made to correct ureteric reflux.
Heterolytic H2 Cleavage and Catalytic Hydrogenation by an Iron Metallaboratrane.

Reversible, heterolytic addition of H2 across an iron–boron bond in a ferraboratrane with formal hydride transfer to the boron gives iron-borohydrido-hydride complexes. These compounds catalyze the hydrogenation of alkenes and alkynes to the respective alkanes. Notably, the boron is capable of acting as a shuttle for hydride transfer to substrates. The results are interesting in the context of heterolytic substrate addition across metal–boron bonds in metallaboratranes and related systems, as well as metal–ligand bifunctional catalysis.
Balancing recreation and environmental system in a ‘natural area’, Perdido Key, Florida, USA

Abstract Long term erosion of Perdido Key is the product of a general negative sediment budget exacerbated by the dredging of a navigation channel at the updrift margin of the Key. A positive sediment budget on Perdido, in the area managed as a natural region, may be attained as a consequence of a massive dredging project to widen and deepen the channel. The fate of the abundant sediment and the effects of beach fill were investigated through a pilot beach nourishment project on the Key (c. 20% of the total project volume). Changes included a total alteration of the pre-existing dynamics of the island and its characteristics. Of especial importance was the tremendous accumulation of sand on the free sand beach which is causing the primary management concern to shift from a focus on dune protection to the preservation of the recreational qualities of the beach.
Jet energy loss and fragmentation in heavy ion collisions

Recent LHC results indicate a suppression of jet fragmentation functions in Pb-Pb collisions at intermediate values of $\xi=\ln(1/z)$. This seems to contradict the picture of energy loss based on the induced QCD radiation that is expected to lead to the enhancement of in-medium fragmentation functions. We use an effective 1+1 dimensional quasi-Abelian model to describe the dynamical modification of jet fragmentation in the medium. We find that this approach describes the data, and argue that there is no contradiction between the LHC results and the picture of QCD radiation induced by the in-medium scattering of the jet. The physics that underlies the suppression of the in-medium fragmentation function at intermediate values of $\xi=\ln(1/z)$ is the partial screening of the color charge of the jet by the comoving medium-induced gluon.
The polarity protein Pard3 is required for centrosome positioning during neurulation

Microtubules are essential regulators of cell polarity, architecture and motility. The organization of the microtubule network is context-specific. In non-polarized cells, microtubules are anchored to the centrosome and form radial arrays. In most epithelial cells, microtubules are noncentrosomal, align along the apico-basal axis and the centrosome templates a cilium. It follows that cells undergoing mesenchyme-to-epithelium transitions must reorganize their microtubule network extensively, yet little is understood about how this process is orchestrated. In particular, the pathways regulating the apical positioning of the centrosome are unknown, a central question given the role of cilia in fluid propulsion, sensation and signaling. In zebrafish, neural progenitors undergo progressive epithelialization during neurulation, and thus provide a convenient in vivo cellular context in which to address this question. We demonstrate here that the microtubule cytoskeleton gradually transitions from a radial to linear organization during neurulation and that microtubules function in conjunction with the polarity protein Pard3 to mediate centrosome positioning. Pard3 depletion results in hydrocephalus, a defect often associated with abnormal cerebrospinal fluid flow that has been linked to cilia defects. These findings thus bring to focus cellular events occurring during neurulation and reveal novel molecular mechanisms implicated in centrosome positioning.
Unifying software engineering and systems engineering

The author describes CMMI (Capability Maturity Model Integration) and the emerging project methods which demonstrate the opportunities for process improvement gains open to organizations. The organization that changes from separated software and system engineering processes to a more unified approach will find itself far more suited to developing dynamically changing, software-intensive systems. Culture change is never easy, but the alternative is even less palatable.
Retentive properties of post and core systems

An investigation was conducted in which different post and core systems were subjected to tensile, shear, and torque forces and their abilities to resist such forces were measured. The following conclusions can be drawn: (1) A post and core unit made of composite resin alone, without the additional retention provided by cemented posts or threaded pins, is the least retentive, and its use should be discouraged. (2) The retention of composite resin cores by four threaded pins compares favorably with other accepted techniques. (3) A round post retaining a composite resin core alone provides poor resistance to torque, but with the addition of threaded pins, its ability to resist displacement improves substantially. (4) The procedure in which composite resins are used to restore the coronal portion of pulpless teeth, with threaded pins and/or posts in the root canal, is reliable.
STIP Symposium on Retrospective Analyses and Future Coordinated Intervals

The STIP (Study of Travelling Interplanetary Phenomena) Project of the Scientific Committee for Solar-Terrestrial Physics held its fifth international meeting in Les Diablerets, Switzerland, June 10–12, 1985. The STIP Project has as its objective the interdisciplinary, informal, and internationally cooperative study of specific solar and interplanetary events during all parts of the solar cycle. The purpose of this meeting was to bring together scientists from all areas of solar-terrestrial physics, both theoretical and experimental, to promote this coordinated study of coupling between the sun and the heliosphere and, in particular, to focus attention on 14 specific intervals of study and to outline scientific objectives for five future intervals. The meeting consisted of six successive sessions and an open business meeting. The program was arranged so that previously appointed coordinators could present invited half-hour summaries of the scientific highlights that characterized each of their Intervals. Contributed papers of 20-minute duration were interspersed among the chronological Interval presentations with 10–20 minute informal discussions following the speakers' presentations. There were 42 scientific papers presented at the meeting by 45 participants from 13 countries. The cosponsors of the conference, along with the Scientific Committee on Solar-Terrestrial Physics, were Committee for Space Research, International Astronomical Union, and International Union of Pure and Applied Physics. The papers presented at the Les Diablerets meeting will appear in STIP Symposium on Retrospective Analyses (M. A. Shea and D. F. Smart, Editors), a publication by the STIP Project, which is to be available in late 1986.
Rapid fluorophosphate nerve agent detection with lanthanides.

Abstract We explore the detection of vapors of diisopropylfluorophosphate, a model compound for nerve agents such as Sarin, by means of photoluminescence quenching of filter paper impregnated with sensitized complexes of lanthanides, involving thenoyltrifluoroacetone and 1,10-phenanthroline as sensitizing ligands. We find that the presence of the fluorophosphate vapor is detectable in as little as 2 s, by simple visual observation under illumination with a hand-held low intensity ultraviolet lamp.
Dehydrated Cucumber Slice as a Mount for Conjunctival Biopsy Specimens

Specially prepared segments of thinly sliced cucumber, serving as tissue mounts, facilitated the histologic processing and interpretation of conjunctival biopsy specimens.
Generating exact D-optimal designs for polynomial models

This paper compares several optimization algorithms that can be used to generate exact D-optimal designs (i.e., designs for a specified number of runs) for any polynomial model. The merits and limitations of each algorithm are demonstrated on several low-order polynomial models, with numerical results verified against analytical results. The efficiencies -- with respect to estimating model parameters --of the D-optimal designs are also compared to the efficiencies of one commonly used class of experimental designs: fractional factorial designs. In the examples discussed, D-optimal designs are significantly more efficient than fractional factorial designs when the number of runs is close to the number of parameters in the model.