cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increasing Genomic Complexity by Gene Duplication and the Origin of Vertebrates

abstract: Prevailing hypotheses concerning the origin of the vertebrate genome postulate successive genome duplications before the origin of fishes or tetrapods. These hypotheses predict episodic expansion of gene families early in vertebrate evolution (mostly before the origin of fishes), tetralogous relationships between gene copies samples from invertebrates and vertebrates, and gene family trees with symmetrical shapes. None of these predictions were evident from a phylogenetic analysis of 35 gene families. Overall, the results do not refute the hypothesis that gene family evolution is governed by independent gene duplications occurring with identical probability across gene lineages. These results suggest that the genome complexity of contemporary vertebrates mostly reflect small‐scale (regional) DNA duplications instead of large‐scale (genomic) duplications.
An automated data collector for the study of human-computer interaction

Abstract For my research on computer games as vehicles of instruction, I have developed a workstation that subjects may use to self-collect and record data while interacting with software. The advantage of this type of data-gathering/observational device is that it preserves and supports a subject's sense of autonomy and control in the experimental environment. This paper discusses the rationale and general requirements for such an apparatus, as well as some limitations of building and using this type of research tool.
Build Sequence Scheduling to Minimize Complexity in Mixed-Model Assembly Lines

Build sequence scheduling is an important topic in mixed-model production. It is to determine the order of products being built in the assembly line. Significant research has been conducted to determine good sequences based on various criteria. For example, in Just-In-Time production systems, optimal sequences are searched to minimize the variation in the rate at which different parts were consumed. This paper discusses the selection of optimal build sequences based on complexity introduced by product variety in mixed-model assembly line. The complexity was defined as the information entropy that operator processes during assembly, which indirectly measures the human performance in making choices, such as selecting parts, tools, fixtures, and assembly procedures in a multi-product, multi-stage, manual assembly environment. In an earlier paper by the authors, a simple version of complexity measure has been developed for i.i.d. (independent identically distributed) sequences. This paper extends the concept and takes into account the sequential dependence of the choices and its impact on build sequence schedules. A model based on Hidden Markov Chain is proposed to model the sequence scheduling problem with the constraints by spacing rules. Methodologies developed in this paper enhance the previous work on modeling complexity, and provide solution strategies for build sequence scheduling to minimize complexity.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Mo1234 Endoscopist Variation in Bowel Preparation Quality Assessment and its Impact on Repeat Colonoscopy Recommendations

Endoscopist Variation in Bowel Preparation Quality Assessment and its Impact on Repeat Colonoscopy Recommendations Otto S. Lin*, Richard A. Kozarek Gastroenterology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA Background: Bowel preparation quality assessment is influenced by objective colon cleanliness and subjective endoscopist perception bias. Different endoscopists may have different thresholds for labeling a particular bowel preparation as “suboptimal” or worse. We assessed the variation in the proportion of “suboptimal” bowel preparations between different endoscopists and its possible impact on repeat colonoscopy recommendations. Methods: 6000 random patients who had routine colonoscopies performed in 2009-2010 by 9 endoscopists in our unit were included. The proportions of each endoscopist’s patients with “poor” (requiring abortion of the procedure or immediate repeat colonoscopy) and “mediocre” preparation (with “mediocre”, “fair” or “suboptimal” descriptors in the report, but not to the extent that the colonoscopy had to be aborted) were compared. For each endoscopist, we also assessed the pattern of recommended repeat colonoscopy intervals for patients with suboptimal preparations. Results: The percentage of “poor” preparations reported by each endoscopist was low and showed little variation (range 0-1.1%); however, there was wide (5-fold) variation in the percentage of mediocre preparations (3-15.5%) (Figure). Relevant patient characteristics, such as age, gender, history of constipation, previously failed bowel preparation, family history of colon cancer, and procedure indication, did not differ significantly between endoscopists’ patients, with the exception that the sole female endoscopist had more female patients (62%) than her male counterparts (50%). On logistic regression, the only two independent predictors of “suboptimal” (i.e. “poor” or “mediocre”) preparation were constipation history and the endoscopist. Furthermore, endoscopists with higher proportions of suboptimal preparations also had higher proportions of patients asked to return early for repeat colonoscopy (defined as endoscopist-recommended repeat colonoscopy intervals earlier than that recommended by guidelines) (correlation coefficient 0.68). Overall, for patients with “suboptimal” preparations, 33.5% were asked to return for colonoscopy in 1 year and 66.3% in 3 years. On logistic regression, preparation quality assessment was a predictor for early repeat colonoscopy, independent of adenoma detection at colonoscopy and family history of colon cancer. Conclusions: Since the laxative agent (polyethylene glycol), bowel preparation instructions and patient characteristics were almost identical for all endoscopists, the “objective” preparation quality is unlikely to differ significantly between endoscopists. Thus, the wide variation in “mediocre” bowel preparation assessment is probably due to variation in endoscopist perception, with implications regarding early repeat colonoscopy recommendations and overall endoscopic resource use.
Strain-guided mineralization in the bone–PDL–cementum complex of a rat periodontium

Author(s): Grandfield, Kathryn; Herber, Ralf Peter; Chen, Ling; Djomehri, Sabra; Tam, Caleb; Lee, Ji-Hyun; Brown, Evan; Woolwine, Wood R; Curtis, Don; Ryder, Mark; Schuck, Jim; Webb, Samuel; Landis, William; Ho, Sunita | Abstract: ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to investigate the effect of mechanical strain by mapping physicochemical properties at periodontal ligament (PDL)-bone and PDL-cementum attachment sites and within the tissues per se.DesignAccentuated mechanical strain was induced by applying a unidirectional force of 0.06N for 14 days on molars in a rat model. The associated changes in functional space between tooth and bone, mineral formation and resorbing events at the PDL-bone and PDL-cementum attachment sites were identified by using micro-X-ray computed tomography (micro-XCT), atomic force microscopy (AFM), dynamic histomorphometry, Raman microspectroscopy, AFM-based nanoindentation technique, and were correlated with histochemical stains specific to low and high molecular weight GAGs, including biglycan, and osteoclast distribution through tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining.ResultsUnique chemical and mechanical qualities including heterogenous bony fingers with hygroscopic Sharpey's fibers contributing to a higher organic (amide III - 1240 cm-1) to inorganic (phosphate - 960 cm-1) ratio, with lower average elastic modulus of 8 GPa versus 12 GPa in unadapted regions were identified. Furthermore, an increased presence of elemental Zn in cement lines and mineralizing fronts of PDL-bone was observed. Adapted regions containing bony fingers exhibited woven bone-like architecture and these regions rich in biglycan (BGN) and bone sialoprotein (BSP) also contained high-molecular weight polysaccharides predominantly at the site of polarized bone growth.ConclusionsFrom a fundamental science perspective the shift in local properties due to strain amplification at the soft-hard tissue attachment sites is governed by semiautonomous cellular events at the PDL-bone and PDL-cementum sites. Over time, these strain-mediated events can alter the physicochemical properties of tissues per se, and consequently the overall biomechanics of the bone-PDL-tooth complex. From a clinical perspective, the shifts in magnitude and duration of forces on the periodontal ligament can prompt a shift in physiologic mineral apposition in cementum and alveolar bone albeit of an adapted quality owing to the rapid mechanical translation of the tooth.
Use of Water Conditioners in Water‐Recirculation Systems

Abstract Commercial water conditioners containing concentrated solutions of Nitrosomonas sp. and Nitrobacter sp. bacteria were evaluated for their effectiveness in activating nitrifying biofilters in hatchery water-reconditioning systems. Conditioners were tested in both fresh- and saltwater situations; the freshwater conditioner did not immediately nitrify ammonia as the saltwater conditioner did.
ON THE THEORY OF DIFFUSION COOLING OF NEUTRONS IN A FINITE SOLID MODERATOR ASSEMBLY

An expression was obtained for the diffusion cooling constant of neutrons in a finite solid moderator. The expression utilizes the transport equation in the diffusion approximation and the velocity distribution expansion of the neutron flux in terms of generalized Laguerre polynomials oi order unity and degree n, each of which is multiplied by a Maxwellian distribution function. The first three terms in the Laguerre expansion are retained. The assumption of neutron temperature in the expression is completely avoided. (C.J.G.)
Local and nonlocal contributions to adhesive energies at metallic interfaces

Abstract A self-consistent computation of the adhesive binding energy versus separation is reported for the following contacts: Al(111)-Al(111), Mg(0001)- Mg(0001), Zn(0001)-Zn(0001), and Na(110)-Na(110). Results are obtained for the local density approximation to exchange and correlation as well as for a nonlocal approximation. The resultant shapes of the adhesive binding energy curves varied substantially from metal to metal. The inclusion of nonlocality has little effect on the overall shape of the binding energy curves, but improves agreement of the binding energies as measured from the energy minimum with experimental surface energies.
Cotton dust contains proteolytic and elastolytic enzymes not inhibited by alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor.

Others have found proteolytic activity in cotton dust and correlated this with the prevalence of acute byssinosis. The present study characterized the proteases in aqueous extracts of cotton dust after controlling for potential artifact from microbial contamination. We tested cotton dust, generated in a model card room operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), for total proteolytic activity (hydrolysis of azocasein) and elastolytic activity (degradation of insoluble 3H-elastin). Both coarse dust and a respirable fraction (aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to 1.7 microgram) yielded proteolytic activity. Proteolysis was inhibited by EDTA (39%), diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) (33%) and alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor (alpha 1 PI) (30%), but not by iodoacetic acid or pepstatin. Elastolytic activity was also present, and was inhibited by DFP (80%) and alpha 1 PI (70%), but not by EDTA. We conclude that cotton dust contains preformed metallo- and serine proteases, and serine elastolytic protease(s) which are incompletely inhibited by alpha 1 PI. These findings may be relevant to the development of chronic lung disease in people exposed to cotton dust.
The RING Finger Protein RNF8 Ubiquitinates Nbs1 to Promote DNA Double-strand Break Repair by Homologous Recombination

Ubiquitination plays an important role in the DNA damage response. We identified a novel interaction of the E3 ubiquitin ligase RNF8 with Nbs1, a key regulator of DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair. We found that Nbs1 is ubiquitinated both before and after DNA damage and is a direct ubiquitination substrate of RNF8. We also identified key residues on Nbs1 that are ubiquitinated by RNF8. By using laser microirradiation and live-cell imaging, we observed that RNF8 and its ubiquitination activity are important for promoting optimal binding of Nbs1 to DSB-containing chromatin. We also demonstrated that RNF8-mediated ubiquitination of Nbs1 contributes to the efficient and stable binding of Nbs1 to DSBs and is important for HR-mediated DSB repair. Taken together, these studies suggest that Nbs1 is one important target of RNF8 to regulate DNA DSB repair.
An Extensive Simplex Method Mapping the Global Feasibility

Understanding the global feasibility of engineering decision-making problems is fundamental to the synthesis of rational engineering decisions. An Extensive Simplex Method is presented to solve the global feasibility for a linear decision model relating multiple decision variables to multiple performance measures, and constrained by corresponding limits. The developed algorithm effectively traverses all extreme points in the feasible space and establishes the graph structure reflecting the active constraints and their connectivity. The algorithm demarcates basic and nonbasic variables at each extreme point, which is exploited to traverse the active constraints and merge the degenerate extreme points. Finally, a random model generator is presented with the capability to control the matrix sparseness and the model degeneracy for an arbitrary number of decision variables and performance measures. The results indicate that all these model properties are significant factors affect the total number of extreme points, their connected graph, and the global feasibility.© 2002 ASME
Idea development in small discussion groups

(1964). Idea development in small discussion groups. Quarterly Journal of Speech: Vol. 50, No. 2, pp. 140-145.
Torsional oscillations of a layer bonded to an elastic half-space☆

Abstract The problem of a layer bonded to an elastic half-space, where the layer is driven by torsional oscillations of a bonded rigid circular disk, is solved by means of integral transform techniques. Using a standard technique, the problem is reduced to a Fredholm integral equation of the second kind, the kernel of which involves the calculation of principal value integrals. Dynamic stiffnesses are developed for a range of layer thicknesses, material properties, and frequencies.
Zone-axis x-ray diffraction of single-crystal Fe 1 − x O under pressure

Zone-axis synchrotron x-ray diffraction of single-crystal ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}\mathrm{O}$ to $25\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{GPa}$ is used to study the effect of pressure on the defect cluster superstructure and to obtain further details on the cubic-to-rhombohedral phase transition in this material. ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}\mathrm{O}$ is found to exhibit a pressure-induced long-range order-disorder transition of defect clusters as the satellite reflections originating from an incommensurate defect superstructure disappear around $14.0\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{GPa}$. The wave vectors of the incommensurately modulated defect structure increase with pressure, while the intensity of incommensurate peaks decreases. In contrast to temperature-induced order-disorder transitions, the pressure-induced transition is not reversible. Additionally, twinning is unambiguously observed to accompany the transition from a cubic to a rhombohedral phase at $19.8\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{GPa}$.
Cost Optimization of a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle

In order to decrease the use of petroleum and release of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, the efficiency of transportation vehicles must be increased. One way to increase vehicle efficiency is by extending the electric-only operation of hybrid electric vehicles through the addition of batteries that can be charged using grid electricity. These plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are currently being developed for introduction into the U.S. market. As with any consumer good, cost is an important design metric. This study optimizes a PHEV design for a mid-size, gasoline-powered passenger vehicle in terms of cost. Three types of batteries, Pb-acid, NiMH, and Li-ion, and three all-electric ranges of 10, 20, and 40 miles (16.1, 32.2, and 64.4 km) were examined. System modeling was performed using Powertrain Systems Analysis Toolkit (PSAT), an Argonne National Laboratory-developed tool. Performance constraints such as acceleration, sustained grade ability, and top speed were met by all systems. The societal impact of the least cost optimum system was quantified in terms of reduced carbon emissions and gasoline consumption. All of the cost optimal designs (one for each combination of all-electric distance and battery type) demonstrated more than a 60% reduction in gasoline consumption and 45% reduction in CO2 emissions, including the emissions generated from producing the electricity used to charge the battery pack, as compared with an average car in the current U.S. fleet. The least cost design for each all-electric range consisted of a Pb-acid design, including a necessary battery replacement of the battery pack twice during the 15 year assumed life. Due to the cost of the battery packs, the 10-mile all-electric range proved to be the least costly. Also, this system saved the most carbon dioxide emissions, a 53% reduction. The most fuel savings came from the PHEV40 system, yielding an 80% reduction in gasoline consumption.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Do Foreign-Owned Plants Pollute More?: New Evidence from the U.S. EPA Toxics Release Inventory

Critics of globalization and capitalist expansion suggest that foreign-owned plants pollute more than domestically owned ones. Using the U.S. EPA Toxics Release Inventory, we test the effects of foreign ownership on the environmental performance of chemical plants in the United States. Results suggest that net of other factors, foreign ownership has a negligible impact on the environmental performance of chemical plants. Implications for research on the organizational determinants of environmental degradation are discussed.
Activities of a non-classical estrogen, Z-bis-dehydrodoisynolic acid, with ERα and ERβ

Abstract (±)-Z-bis-Dehydrodoisynolic acid [(±)-Z-BDDA] is highly estrogenic in vivo, yet binds to estrogen receptor (ER) poorly. This paradox has raised the possibility of alternative ERs and/or molecular mechanisms. To address the possibility of high activities of Z-BDDA with ERβ, we determined the activities of (+)-Z-BDDA and (−)-Z-BDDA, in cell culture and in vitro, comparing ERβ to ERα. Transfectional analysis in Hela cells showed (−)-Z-BDDA is an agonist for gene activation with both ERα (EC50≅0.3 nM) and ERβ (EC50≅5 nM), while little to no activity was observed with (+)-Z-BDDA. Similarly, in gene repression assays, (−)-Z-BDDA was active (EC50≅0.2 nM), but again minimal activity was exhibited by (+)-Z-BDDA. Binding to ERα and ERβ in vitro used both competition and a direct binding assay. For ERα, the relative affinity of (−)-Z-BDDA was approximately 6% by competition and 1.7% by direct binding versus 17β-estradiol (E2; 100%), while (+)-Z-BDDA also demonstrated binding, but with relative affinities of only 0.08% by competition and 0.3% by the direct assay. For ERβ, the affinity of (−)-Z-BDDA was approximately 7% by competition and 1.5% by the direct assay relative to E2 (100%), while (+)-Z-BDDA had lower affinity, approximately 0.2% that of E2 by both assays. The paradox of potent in vivo activity but lower activity in receptor binding and in cell culture reporter gene assays, previously seen with ERα is now also associated with ERβ. The failure of ERβ to explain the activity–binding paradox indicates the need for additional in vivo metabolic and pharmacokinetic studies and continued consideration of alternative mechanisms.
Information and trade sizes: The case of short sales

Abstract In this study, we examine short selling of NASDAQ stocks and observe that more information about future returns is contained in small short sales than in medium-sized and large short sales, thus supporting the idea that NASDAQ short sellers stealth trade. These results are robust to different subsamples of stocks with and without tradable options and stocks that are more likely to face binding borrowing constraints. Further, these findings are contrary to the results in Boehmer, Jones, and Zhang (2008) who find that large NYSE short sales contain the most information. Combined, our study supports the idea that NASDAQ's bid test is less restricting than the NYSE's uptick rule and therefore attenuates the likelihood of stealth trading (Diether, Lee, & Werner, 2009a).
The morphology and hormonal responsiveness of developing skeletal elements in chick limb buds

While parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcitonin (CT), and certain prostaglandins (PGs) are known to regulate the metabolism of both osteogenic and osteolytic cells of the adult skeleton through an adenosine 3', 5'-monophosphate-dependent mechanism, little is known about the development of this hormonally mediated response in embryonic skeletal tissues. In the present study, the responsiveness of embryonic skeletal elements to PTH and PGE2 was examined during various stages of development utilizing cAMP concentrations as an indicator of hormone-receptor interaction. The cytology of the limb skeletal system was examined also at each stage tested in order to compare the differentiated cellular phenotypes with their hormonal responsiveness. Prior to differentiation of cartilaginous elements in developing limb buds (stage 20-21), cells were responsive to PGE2 and epinephrine (EPI) but not to PTH. The first consistent response to PTH occurred coincident with the initial differentiation of the cartilage phenotype in limb buds (stage 24-25). A responsiveness to both PTH and PGE2 was progressively increased as maturation of cartilaginous and osteogenic elements occurred (stage 26-35). The initial response to CT was detected within cartilage rods in which osteogenic cells had differentiated (stage 33-35). The results of this study indicate that PGE2-sensitive cells exist within the developing limb prior to cytodifferentiation. The development of PTH responsiveness within embryonic chick limb buds is correlated with the onset of both chondrogenesis and osteogenesis in vivo.
Discontinuous Markoff processes

The present paper is devoted to the theory of discontinuous Markoff processes, that is processes where the transitions between states take place either by “jumps” of some specified kind, or by other means. States are taken as pointx in an abstract space;phases are points (x, t) in the product state×time space; sets of states are denoted byX, sets of phases byS. It is shown in § 2 that such a process is specified bytwo functions:the probabilityχ 0 (X, t|x 0,t 0) of a transitionx 0→X without “jumps” in the time interval [t 0,t), and the probability distribution Ψ (S|x 0,t 0) of the first jump time and the consequent state, given an initial phase (x 0,t 0). The total transition probability χ (X, t|x 0,t 0) is required to satisfy the integral equation (I.E.) $$\chi \left( {\left. {X,t} \right|x_0 ,t_0 } \right) = \chi _0 \left( {\left. {X,t} \right|x_0 ,t_0 } \right) + \int {\chi \left( {\left. {X,t} \right|\xi ,\tau } \right)} \psi \left( {\left. {d\xi ,d\tau } \right|x_0 ,t_0 } \right).$$ The main problem is to study the existence and uniqueness of the solutions of I.E. which also satisfy the conditions (stated in § 1) for being transition probabilities of a Markoff process. Previous work (cf. § 4) on this subject relates to special cases, mainly to processes where transitions occuronly by jumps. In § 5, two auxiliary sets of functions are introduced: the distributions ψ n (|x 0,t 0) of thenth jump time and consequent state (which form a Markoff chain), and the transition probabilitiesχ 0 (X, t|x 0,t 0)
Cohesive zone finite element analysis of crack initiation from a butt joint’s interface corner

The Cohesive zone (CZ) fracture analysis techniques are used to predict the initiation of crack growth from the interface corner of an adhesively bonded butt joint. In this plane strain analysis, a thin linear elastic adhesive layer is sandwiched between rigid adherends. There is no preexisting crack in the problem analyzed, and the focus is on how the shape of the traction–separation (T–U) relationship affects the predicted joint strength. Unlike the case of a preexisting interfacial crack, the calculated results clearly indicate that the predicted joint strength depends on the shape of the T–U relationship. Most of the calculations used a rectangular T–U relationship whose shape (aspect ratio) is defined by two parameters: the interfacial strength σ* and the work of separation/unit area Γ. The principal finding of this study is that for a specified adhesive layer thickness, there is any number of σ*, Γ combinations that generate the same predicted joint strength. For each combination there is a corresponding CZ length. We developed an approximate CZ-like elasticity solution to show how such combinations arise and their connection with the CZ length.
Role of coronal mass ejections in the heliospheric Hale cycle

The 11-year solar cycle variation in the heliospheric magnetic field strength can be explained by the temporary buildup of closed flux released by coronal mass ejections (CMEs). If this explanation is correct, and the total open magnetic flux is conserved, then the interplanetary-CME closed flux must eventually open via reconnection with open flux close to the Sun. In this case each CME will move the reconnected open flux by at least the CME footpoint separation distance. Since the polarity of CME footpoints tends to follow a pattern similar to the Hale cycle of sunspot polarity, repeated CME eruption and subsequent reconnection will naturally result in latitudinal transport of open solar flux. We demonstrate how this process can reverse the coronal and heliospheric fields, and we calculate that the amount of flux involved is sufficient to accomplish the reversal within the 11 years of the solar cycle.
The qualitative analysis of a difference equation of population growth.

The difference equation f b :[0,1]−[0,1] defined by f b (x)=b x(1−x) is studied. In particular complete qualitative information is obtained for the parameter value b=3.83. For example the number of fixed points of (f b )i is given by $$N_i = 1 + \left( {\frac{{1 + \sqrt 5 }}{2}} \right)^i + \left( {\frac{{1 - \sqrt 5 }}{2}} \right)^i$$
An Interactive Scene Analysis Software System

This paper describes a scene analysis system (SAS) which is a general-purpose software package for processing, manipulating, and analyzing digital pictures. The SAS package is structured to allow a sequential operation of image processing operators on pictures stored in core. There are three categories of operators used in SAS: basic operators, general operators and user-developed operators. This paper aims to illustrate the versatility and usefulness of SAS in developing and analyzing image processing techniques.
Deconstructing 9/11: A constructivist commentary

Abstract Like most tragic losses, the events surrounding the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001, initiated a quest for meaning, to which the thoughtful essays in this issue of The Humanistic Psychologist are a partial response. In this capstone commentary, I integrate key themes in the articles bearing on experience and explanation, trauma and transcendence, and constructivism as corrective to some of the underlying psychological dynamics contributing to the violent assertion of one group's perspective against another. I also attempt to extend the predominantly individualistic formulations put forth by the authors by underscoring the importance of the social construction of identities, and reflect on the validating function of “positioning” the other in such a way that aggression is morally justified.
Regulatory roles of zinc in matrix vesicle-mediated mineralization of growth plate cartilage.

Zinc (Zn2+) has long been known to play important roles in mineralization and ossification of skeletal tissues, but the mechanisms of Zn2+ action are not well understood. In this study we investigated the effects of Zn2+ on mineralization in a cell culture system in which terminal differentiation and mineralization of hypertrophic growth plate chondrocytes was induced by retinoic acid (RA) treatment. Addition of Zn2+ to RA-treated cultures decreased mineralization in a dose-dependent manner without affecting alkaline phosphatase (APase) activity. Characterization of matrix vesicles (MVs), particles that initiate the mineralization process, revealed that vesicles isolated from RA-treated and RA/Zn2+-treated cultures showed similar APase activity, but vesicles from RA/Zn2+-treated cultures contained significantly less Ca2+ and Pi. MVs isolated from RA-treated cultures were able to take up Ca2+ and mineralize in vitro, whereas vesicles isolated from RA/Zn2+-treated cultures were not able to do so. Detergent treatment, which ruptures the MV membrane and exposes preformed intravesicular Ca2+-Pi-phospholipid complexes, did not restore the Ca2+ uptake abilities of MVs isolated from RA/Zn2+-treated cultures, suggesting that vesicles from RA/Zn2+-treated cultures did not contain functional Ca2+-Pi− phospholipid complexes. Zn2+ treatment did not affect the content of annexins II, V, and VI in MVs or the Ca2+-dependent, EDTA-reversible binding of these molecules to the membrane surface. However, Zn2+ treatment did affect the EDTA-nonreversible binding of these molecules to the MV membrane, suggesting that Zn2+ interferes with the assembly of annexins in the MV membrane. In addition, Zn2+ inhibited annexin II-, V-, and VI-mediated Ca2+ influx into liposomes. In conclusion, Zn2+ inhibits the mineralizing competence of intravesicular Ca2+-Pi–phospholipid complexes and function of annexin channels, thereby controlling Ca2+ influx into MVs, the formation of the first crystal phase inside the vesicles and initiation of mineralization. (J Bone Miner Res 2000;15:261–270)
NATIVE LANGUAGES AS ETHNOGRAPHIC TOOLS

NATIVE LANGUAGES AS ETHNOGRAPHIC TOOLS DR admirably clarifies article conception of Anthropologist, 41: 189sq., to 1939) MEAD'S recent (American her the linguistic approach ab­ By ROBERT H. LOWIE origina~ cultures. She effectively disposes of at least one grave misunder­ standing. I had supposed that using the native language for participation in the speaker's community meant, mutatis mutandis, what it means for a would-be authority on any advanced contemporary civilization, viz., a fluent command of the vernacular, coupled with ready comprehension of the natives' speech among themselves. Such control, however, Dr Mead vehemently deprecates-almost contemptuously-as linguistic virtuos­ ity (the pejorative term appears at least half a dozen times in as many pages). Her use of native languages bears a Pickwickian sense, involving claims so moderate that they disarm skepticism, let alone, wholesale doubt. Nevertheless, the article raises other issues. Is it historically accurate in defining the indicated revolution in field technique? What are broken or decayed cultures? Does Pickwickian use suffice for the goals set? And what is the true value of virtuosity ? In the following remarks I am not trying to lay down the law, but to give testimony. Nor is it my purpose to engage in controversy, but to make my position clear. Emphasis is solely in the interests of clarity: my previous comments on the subject l were misinterpreted into the exact reverse of their intended meaning by at least two readers, the late Dr Truman Michelson and a British colleague whose reactions reached me second-hand. I repeat what I have often said before: it is not important to me whether others agree or disagree; but it is all-important that the real points of both agreement and disagreement should stand out in relief. HISTORICAL FACTS Although second to none in my appreciation of Professor Malinowski's field researches, I cannot regard him as an innovator in learning the speech of his people twenty-odd years ago. Even if we eliminate as special cases Knud Rasmussen, whose Nye Mennesker appearod in 1905, and William Jones.. whose Fox Texts date back to 1907, there remain a respectable number of investigators who freely employed the vernacular in daily contact with the peoples they studied. This holds for Mrs Gudmund Hatt (Emilie Demant), who learnt Lapp before 1912, the date of the German R. H. Lowie, The Crow Indians (New York, 1935), p. XVIIIsq.
Treatment of Dupuytren's contracture by extensive fasciectomy through multiple Y-V-plasty incisions: Short-term evaluation of 170 consecutive operations

The zigzag incision with Y-V closure has unique advantages for the treatment of Dupuytren's disease. Much skin can be mobilized to the longitudinal finger axis. There is rarely a need for skin grafting in spite of full correction of the deformity. This approach, combined with properly applied tamponade bulk dressing, allows for early use of the hand with minimal morbidity.
Performance of bilingual subjects on Spanish and English versions of the Depression Adjective Check Lists.

To study the performance of bilingual subjects on the Spanish and English versions of the Depression Adjective Check Lists (DACL), 27 males and 34 females completed the three forms of the DACL (E, F, and G), each of which was printed half in Spanish and half in English. Order of language was counterbalanced. No significant effects either for language or sex of subject were found. These findings, together with high correlations (.84 to .89) between the Spanish and English halves of each list, support the use of the Spanish version of the DACL in research with Spanish-speaking subjects from the southwestern United States.
Ethylenebis(triphenylphosphine)platinum as a Probe for Niobium-Mediated Diphosphorus Chemistry

Ethylenebis(triphenylphosphine)platinum is used as a trap for the P2-containing molecule W(CO)5(P2), which is eliminated at room temperature from a niobium-complexed diphosphaazide ligand. The rate of W(CO)5(P2) elimination is unaffected by the presence of the platinum species. Attempts to generate and trap free P2 with the platinum ethylene complex were hindered by the direct reaction between the platinum starting material and the P2 generator, (Mes*NPP)Nb(N[Np]Ar)3. In this case, reductive cleavage of the P−P bond in the diphosphaazide ligand is induced by platinum coordination, resulting in the formation of a trimetallic system with two bridging, three-coordinate phosphorus atoms.
The obstetrician-gynecologist's role in adult immunization

Vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) account for significant morbidities and mortalities in the United States on an annual basis. Despite generally successful childhood vaccine programs, adults remain underimmunized against a variety of common VPDs. Lack of both physician and patient awareness contribute to this deficiency. All primary care providers, including obstetrician-gynecologists, must address this need in their office practices. Clear and authoritative adult vaccine recommendations are established and easily accessible by the clinician. Pregnancy is not an absolute contraindication to vaccine administration. In fact, certain vaccines are specifically indicated during pregnancy in the interest of the mother and her unborn child. Women frequently identify gynecologists as their sole providers of care, further emphasizing the need for attention to this health maintenance activity. New vaccine initiatives, in particular those focused on early newborn infectious conditions, sexually transmitted diseases, and cancer prevention, will likely place the obstetrician-gynecologist at the forefront of this important clinical issue.
Inducible cAMP early repressor can modulate tyrosine hydroxylase gene expression after stimulation of cAMP synthesis.

Members of the CREB/CREM/ATF family of transcription factors either enhance or repress transcription after binding to the cAMP response elements (CREs) of numerous genes. The rat gene for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) bears a canonical CRE, at base pairs -38 through -45 from the transcription initiation site, that is essential for basal and cAMP-stimulated transcription (Kim, K.-S., Lee, M. K., Carroll, J., and Joh, T. H. (1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 15689-15695; Lazaroff, M., Patankar, S., Yoon, S. O., and Chikaraishi, D. M. (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270, 21579-21589). The current study identifies CRE-binding proteins induced in pharmacological paradigms characterized by TH activation. PC12- and rat adrenal gland-derived nuclear proteins retarded a TH-CRE oligonucleotide in gel mobility shift assays with virtually identical patterns. These differed substantially from patterns exhibited by extracts from locus ceruleus or from neuroblastoma (SK-N-BE()C) and locus ceruleus-derived (CATH.a) cell lines. Forskolin stimulation of PC12 cells and reserpine treatment of rats increased, in nuclear extracts derived from cells and adrenal glands, respectively, the amount of a fast moving CRE/protein complex that was supershifted by an anti-CREM antibody. Subsequent Western, Northern, and polymerase chain reaction analyses indicated that a specific member of the CREM family, the inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER), was strongly induced in both systems. Cotransfection of PC12 cells with TH2400CAT plasmid and the expression vector pCMV-ICER-Ib demonstrated that ICER efficiently represses the transcriptional activity of the TH gene promoter. In addition, PKA-stimulated transcriptional activity of the promoter was effectively suppressed by ICER. These results suggest that ICER can modulate cAMP-stimulated transcription of the TH gene and provide a model accounting for rapid reversal of increased TH transcription following elevations in cAMP.
A study of the effect of icing on the helicopter blade-vortex mechanism of interaction using large-eddy simulation

The influence of icing on the helicopter blade-vortex interaction mechanism is investigated using large eddy simulation (LES). The simulations were performed for a Reynolds number of Re = 1.3 x 10 6 based on the chord of the airfoil (NACA0012). Computations are carried out to investigate the influence of icing on the aerodynamic coefficients. Overall larger amplitudes of aerodynamic coefficients were observed for the case of an iced leading edge when compared with the clean NACA0012 case. Also the bladevortex interactions are stronger in the presence of ice, resulting in larger oscillations of the aerodynamic coefficients.
StarTrek illusion--general object constancy phenomenon?

We report a new powerful type of contrast and size illusion caused by apparent motion in depth, which we called theStarTrek illusion. We found that an optic ﬂow pattern consistent with objects moving in depth strongly modulates theirapparent contrast. Disks that appeared to move away from the observer appeared to grow higher in contrast and larger,while their retinal size and contrast remained constant. We explain this illusion of contrast by the term contrast constancy:Normally, objects lose their contrast when viewed from far away, but when this expected loss does not happen, the braininfers that the physical contrast of the object increases as the object moves away. This is perceived as the illusory increaseof the object’s contrast. The contrast constancy is largely analogous to the well-known size constancy phenomenon. Wediscovered that the two phenomena are related. By adjusting the size of the disks during the optic ﬂow motion, the illusorycontrast increase could be easily canceled or even reversed. On the other hand, the illusory size increase could not bemanipulated the same way by contrast modulation. Our results suggest that the brain may use the same scaling factor toaccount for the size and contrast change with distance and that the estimated object size affects the contrast calculation.Keywords: psychophysics, size constancy, contrast constancyCitation: Qian, J., & Petrov, Y. (2012). StarTrek Illusion—General object constancy phenomenon?. Journal of Vision,12(2):15, 1–10, http://www.journalofvision.org/content/12/2/15, doi:10.1167/12.2.15.
Winners and Losers in EU State Aid Policy

Who gains and who loses from the European Union’s state aid policy? Using data published by the Competition Directorate from 1992 to 2007, I employ pooled time series analysis to understand the motives behind state aid allocations and then interpret the findings in light of the political relationship between Member States and the Commission. Demand for aid is shaped by national macroeconomic and institutional characteristics. Governments then bargain with the Commission to allocate aid. As a result, the Commission finds itself in a delicate balancing act as controller of state aids and as an institution subject to the political power of member government.
Allele-specific DNA methylation: beyond imprinting

Allele-specific DNA methylation (ASM) and allele-specific gene expression (ASE) have long been studied in genomic imprinting and X chromosome inactivation. But these types of allelic asymmetries, along with allele-specific transcription factor binding (ASTF), have turned out to be far more pervasive-affecting many non-imprinted autosomal genes in normal human tissues. ASM, ASE and ASTF have now been mapped genome-wide by microarray-based methods and NextGen sequencing. Multiple studies agree that all three types of allelic asymmetries, as well as the related phenomena of expression and methylation quantitative trait loci, are mostly accounted for by cis-acting regulatory polymorphisms. The precise mechanisms by which this occurs are not yet understood, but there are some testable hypotheses and already a few direct clues. Future challenges include achieving higher resolution maps to locate the epicenters of cis-regulated ASM, using this information to test mechanistic models, and applying genome-wide maps of ASE/ASM/ASTF to pinpoint functional regulatory polymorphisms influencing disease susceptibility.
Parental perspectives of children born with cleft lip and/or palate: a qualitative assessment of suggestions for healthcare improvements and interventions.

Abstract Objective: To assess parental perspectives on effective interventions and to summarize parents' suggestions for health care professionals to improve the care provided to their children born with cleft lip and/or palate. Design: Qualitative interviews. Setting: Comprehensive craniofacial center at a Midwest pediatric hospital. Participants: Seventeen parents of children under the age of 1 who were born with CL/P. Results: Interventions that parents identified as effective included repetition of information, showing pictures of other children (before and after surgery), and anticipatory guidance about surgeries and their child's development. Despite the high level of satisfaction, parents expressed a desire for health care professionals to use more written and visual information, to have more contact with other parents of children born with clefts, and for health care professionals outside the Craniofacial Center to be more knowledgeable about CL/P. Conclusions: Although parents of children with CL...
Tropical Cyclogenesis within an Equatorial Rossby Wave Packet

Abstract A packet of equatorial Rossby (ER) waves that lasted 2.5 months is identified in the lower troposphere of the northwest Pacific. Waves within the packet had a period of 22 days, a wavelength of 3600 km, a westward phase speed of 1.9 m s−1, and a near-zero group speed. The wave properties followed the ER wave dispersion relation with an equivalent depth near 25 m. The packet was associated with the development of at least 8 of the 13 tropical cyclones that formed during the period. A composite was constructed around the genesis locations. Tropical cyclones formed east of the center of the composite ER wave low in a region of strong convection and a separate 850-hPa vorticity maximum. The background flow during the life of the packet was characterized by 850-hPa zonal wind convergence and easterly vertical wind shear. Wave amplitude peaked at the west end of the convergent region, suggesting that wave accumulation played a significant role in the growth of the packet. The presence of easterly verti...
Statistical relation between monthly mean precipitable water and surface-level humidity over global oceans

Abstract Monthly summaries of atmospheric soundings taken over 17 years from 49 midocean stations at small islands and weather ships distributed over major oceans are examined. Over tropical oceans, precipitable water is found to be a better predictor of surface-level humidity than surface-level air temperature. A statistical relation in the form of a polynomial is derived; from this relation, the monthly-mean, surface-level mixing ratio can be computed from monthly-mean precipitable water. The root-mean-square differences between the measured and derived values were found to be less than 8 × 10−4 over most ocean areas. Such a relation is useful in deriving large-scale evaporation and latent heal flux data from the ocean, using spaceborne observations. The temporal and spatial variabilities of data deviations from this relation are examined. This relation is found to be applicable to all major ocean basins and can be used to monitor interannual variability. Boundary-layer thermodynamics of different air m...
A simple non-linear model for the effect of partial shade on PV systems

The effect of shade from one PV module on another is incorporated into a model for the power generated by PV systems. The model is calibrated with data from the Tucson Electric Power solar test yard. Shade de-rating factors from the model are compared with data every minute of the day and every day of the year. The model is then used to predict final yields (kWh/kW DC ) for different PV system deployments with various (non-tracking) module orientations and ground-cover ratios. Several heuristics are put forth to help understand how the observed non-linear response to shade can impact the yield from PV systems. In one example, we find that a PV system deployed in the Tucson Electric Power solar test yard could produce 22% more kWh for the month of December (and 3.8% more annually) if the modules were separated by twice as much distance. In another example, we predict that a system in Tucson with south-facing modules at 12-degrees from horizontal can generate 1.5 times as many kWh/yr per square-meter of land compared to a system with modules at 32-degrees (the latitude angle). These examples emphasize the non-linear impact of partial shade on PV system performance.
Ultrasensitive analyte detection with plasmonic paper dipsticks and swabs integrated with branched nanoantennas

Paper-based substrates integrated with plasmonic nanostructures and combined with surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) offer a flexible and lightweight platform for the ultrasensitive optical detection of analytes on any surface. Here, we incorporated multibranched gold nanoantennas (MGNs) on inexpensive filter paper to design MGN-paper dipsticks and swabs for SERS mediated sensing of chemicals, proteins, and pesticides adsorbed on fruits. MGNs are anisotropic nanostructures consisting of a core which serves as the antenna and protrusions that serve as emitters redistributing incident light. The nanoantenna effect gives rise to intense electromagnetic fields on the tips of the protrusions that enabled a detection of 100 pM of 1,4-benzenedithiol and 100 fM of human serum albumin labeled with indocyanine green with the MGN-paper dipsticks. Further, MGN-paper swabs enabled the detection of 62.5 pg of solid state 4-aminothiophenol on a planar surface, and 26.3 μg of methyl parathion adsorbed on an apple. Finite difference time domain simulations demonstrated that the nanoantenna effect can be systematically modulated by altering the core-to-protrusion ratio to generate a ∼65× enhancement in the electromagnetic fields localized on the protrusions which may ultimately result in sub-femtomolar to zeptomolar detection sensitivities.