cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Singapore: Downstream linkages

Singapore’s development since the 1960s has relied heavily on an export-led economic strategy supported by dedicated institutions providing guidance, fiscal incentives and a thriving financial and logistics sector. With little reserves of crude oil, the country has leveraged its unique geographical position as the gateway to Asian markets with world-class port infrastructure. It has attracted a number of large-scale oil refineries and petrochemical industries clustered in an export processing zone, making it the petroleum trading hub of the region. Building on Royal Dutch Shell’s initiative to set up a refinery to exploit the Asian market and taking advantage of its port facilities and strategic location in the Asia-Pacific region, the government implemented an export-driven industrial policy centred around refined oil products. The success over the years has been sustained thanks to the strong fuel consumption trends in rapidly growing Asian economies. Recognizing a shift in the region’s product demand trends, the government has moved further downstream by developing the petrochemicals sector.
Enhanced Thermal Hall Effect in the Square-Lattice Néel State

Common wisdom about conventional antiferromagnets is that their low-energy physics is governed by spin–wave excitations. However, recent experiments on several cuprate compounds have challenged this concept. An enhanced thermal Hall response in the pseudogap phase was identified, which persists even in the insulating parent compounds without doping. Here, to explain these surprising observations, we study the quantum phase transition of a square-lattice antiferromagnet from a confining Neel state to a state with coexisting Neel and semion topological order. The transition is driven by an applied magnetic field and involves no change in the symmetry of the state. The critical point is described by a strongly coupled conformal field theory with an emergent global SO(3) symmetry. The field theory has four different formulations in terms of SU(2) or U(1) gauge theories, which are all related by dualities; we relate all four theories to the lattice degrees of freedom. We show how proximity of the confining Neel state to the critical point can explain the enhanced thermal Hall effect seen in experiments. The remarkably large thermal Hall response recently observed in the copper oxides challenges our understanding of the excitations in an insulating antiferromagnet. Here, a possible explanation of the underlying physics is provided.
425-to-25-GHz CMOS-Integrated Downconverter

An integrated 425-GHz radio frequency (RF) to 25-GHz intermediate frequency (IF) second-order subharmonic downconverter, including an on-chip 8X local oscillator (LO) signal multiplier circuit that provides ~1 dBm at 200 GHz from an externally applied 25-GHz signal, and a 25-GHz IF amplifier, achieves a conversion gain of 6.7 dB and a noise figure of ~17 dB. The downconverter consumes 190 mW of dc power. Compared to the previously reported CMOS and SiGe HBT receivers/downconverters operating around 400 GHz and above, the downconverter achieves ~18−dB lower single side band noise figure. Finally, a passive switching mixer can have an available output noise spectral density less than kT , which can make its NF less than its conversion loss.
Update on an S-Band All-Digital Mobile Phased Array Radar

This paper provides an update on an S-band, polarimetric phased array radar designed to operate in the 2.7 – 3.1 GHz frequency band, which is being designed and built at the University of Oklahoma’s Advanced Radar Research Center (ARRC). This is radar build 1 of 2 for our group in the S-band. Providing optimum radar flexibility, this phased array radar, known as Horus, is digital at every element and polarization.
Multiyear Factor VIII Expression after AAV Gene Transfer for Hemophilia A.

Background The goal of gene therapy for patients with hemophilia A is to safely impart long-term stable factor VIII expression that predictably ameliorates bleeding with the use of the lowest possible vector dose. Methods In this phase 1-2 trial, we infused an investigational adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector (SPK-8011) for hepatocyte expression of factor VIII in 18 men with hemophilia A. Four dose cohorts were enrolled; the lowest-dose cohort received a dose of 5 × 1011 vector genomes (vg) per kilogram of body weight, and the highest-dose cohort received 2 × 1012 vg per kilogram. Some participants received glucocorticoids within 52 weeks after vector administration either to prevent or to treat a presumed AAV capsid immune response. Trial objectives included evaluation of the safety and preliminary efficacy of SPK-8011 and of the expression and durability of factor VIII. Results The median safety observation period was 36.6 months (range, 5.5 to 50.3). A total of 33 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 8 participants; 17 events were vector-related, including 1 serious adverse event, and 16 were glucocorticoid-related. Two participants lost all factor VIII expression because of an anti-AAV capsid cellular immune response that was not sensitive to immune suppression. In the remaining 16 participants, factor VIII expression was maintained; 12 of these participants were followed for more than 2 years, and a one-stage factor VIII assay showed no apparent decrease in factor VIII activity over time (mean [±SD] factor VIII activity, 12.9±6.9% of the normal value at 26 to 52 weeks when the participants were not receiving glucocorticoids vs. 12.0±7.1% of the normal value at >52 weeks after vector administration; 95% confidence interval [CI], -2.4 to 0.6 for the difference between matched pairs). The participants had a 91.5% reduction (95% CI, 88.8 to 94.1) in the annualized bleeding rate (median rate, 8.5 events per year [range, 0 to 43.0] before vector administration vs. 0.3 events per year [range, 0 to 6.5] after vector administration). Conclusions Sustained factor VIII expression in 16 of 18 participants who received SPK-8011 permitted discontinuation of prophylaxis and a reduction in bleeding episodes. No major safety concerns were reported. (Funded by Spark Therapeutics and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; ClinicalTrials.gov numbers, NCT03003533 and NCT03432520.).
Theoretical and experimental insights into cycloaddition reactions

In this article, a description has been given of theoretical and experimental investigations of the factors beyond frontier molecular orbital interactions which are important in influencing mechanisms, rates, and regioselectivities of cycloadditions and related reactions of unsaturated systems. Closed-shell repulsion, geometrical distortions, polarization, and secondary orbital interactions have all been shown to be influential. Electrostatic interactions and correlation effects have not been discussed, but will provide further refinements — or confusion, depending upon the reader's point of view! As Professor Huisgen recently commented, there are now a distressingly large number of “buttons to push”, to explain various phenomena91). This is, indeed, the case at the present time, primarily due to our limited knowledge about the magnitudes of these many effects. The cases discussed here constitute examples where the cited effects seem to prevail over others, but similar effects will be present to some extent in all reactions. Our current research efforts constitute attempts to understand more generally when these effects are significant, and to be able to understand and predict rates and products of organic reactions.
How Social Robots Will Help Us to Diagnose, Treat, and Understand Autism

Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder that is characterized by social and communicative impairments. Social robots recognize and respond to human social cues with appropriate behaviors. Social robots, and the technology used in their construction, can be unique tools in the study of autism. Based on three years of integration and immersion with a clinical research group, this paper discusses how social robots will make an impact on the ways in which we diagnose, treat, and understand autism.
Why Virtual Worlds Matter

In Making Virtual Worlds: Linden Lab and Second Life, Thomas Malaby addresses why virtual worlds matter, with a critical eye to the connection between the “real world” of Linden Lab and the “virtual world” it has created called Second Life. Malaby seeks out in this ethnographic account the processes that govern both worlds, the affordances they provide to their human agents (or “users,” respectively), and how games are employed to engage nonvertical models of bureaucratic institutional organization that are anathema to the ideals of the 1960s out of which the internet, and ultimately virtual worlds, emerged. One of the chief methods Malaby identifies for establishing order and governance within both the virtual world of Second Life and that of its maker, Linden Lab, involves the transition from traditionally executed norms and cultural rules for the workplace (negotiated through traditional media) to the use of what has been called “code/space” (Kitchin and Dodge 2006). Institutionally, this meant the turn from memos, face-to-face meetings, and other traditional vertical, “top-down” bureaucratic methods of communication at Linden Lab to a software product called Jira, which is “designed to help a group of people keep track of the development of a software product and allows for the relatively straightforward coding of further tools that can be layered onto its software to make use of the information it tracks” (Malaby 2009:68). Individually, this meant the use of “games,” or elements of contingency and indeterminacy, to negotiate new media platforms used to convey the tasks and strategies necessary to create the virtual world, which itself is a kind of game. “Games,” says Malaby, “are socially constructed by a shared commitment to their legitimacy as contrived spaces where indeterminate outcomes can unfold” (p. 85). This injects an intentionally irrational element of unpredictability into the business of Linden Lab. He describes Linden Lab during his time there as constantly teetering between success and failure. This irrationality (in the Weberian sense) and unpredictability,
Hysteroscopy: A clinical experience with 320 patients

Abstract Hysteroscopy has added a new dimension to the management of patients with common clinical problems, increasing the accuracy of diagnosis and serving as an adjunct in treatment of intrauterine conditions. This report summarizes the hysteroscopic experience with 320 selected patients, 104 in the reproductive age group with abnormal uterine bleeding, 91 who underwent hysteroscopy for location and retrieval of intrauterine contraceptive devices, 36 with primary or secondary infertility, 36 with postmenopausal bleeding, and 15 with uterine leiomyomas. Paracervical block anesthesia was used successfully in 214 patients. General anesthesia was used in the remainder because of planned additional surgical intervention. Uterine distention was achieved with D5W in 270 patients, with dextran 32% in 30 patients, and with CO 2 gas insufflation in 20 patients. In 71.6 per cent of the patients, visually recognizable or pathologically suspicious intrauterine abnormalities were found. This study further demonstrated the utility of hysteroscopy in diagnosis of endometrial polyps, uterine submucous leiomyomas, uterine malformations, and intrauterine adhesions. Hysteroscopy was also helpful in taking directed biopsies of selected areas of the endometrium in patients with adenomatous hyperplasia and early adenocarcinoma of the endometrium and helpful in removal of intrauterine foreign bodies and evaluation of the recently pregnant uterus when there was a question of persistent pregnancy. Hysteroscopy is a safe ambulatory procedure that is appealing to both patient and gynecologist in its economy and simplicity.
Prostaglandin E1 treatment of NZB/W mice. III. Preservation of spleen cell concentrations and mitogen-induced proliferative responses.

Abstract Treatment with prostaglandin E 1 (PGE 1 ) delays nephritis and death in NZB/W mice. In an effort to determine the effects of PGE 1 on immune dysfunctions in NZB/W mice, spleen cell responses to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and spleen lymphocyte numbers and proportions were compared in PGE 1 -treated and untreated NZB/W mice from 10 through 44 weeks of age. A sharp decline in both unstimulated and PHA-stimulated [ 3 H]thymidine incorporation was observed in spleen cells from untreated mice older than 10 weeks. PGE 1 -treated mice maintained significantly higher unstimulated levels of [ 3 H]thymidine incorporation than control mice from 13.5 through 44 weeks. Responses to PHA stimulation were consistently higher in cells from PGE 1 -treated than from untreated NZB/W mice until 28 weeks. Responses to PHA of spleen cells from both PGE 1 -treated and control NZB/W mice reflected their respective T- and B-cell concentrations. Splenomegaly was prevented, and the numbers of B and null cells were reduced by PGE 1 treatment. Thus, although T-cell numbers were similar, the percentage of T cells in spleens from PGE 1 -treated mice was greater than in spleens from untreated NZB/W mice. Preservation of cell-mediated immunity may, therefore, reflect maintenance by PGE 1 of appropriate T- and B-cell concentrations and may be one of the early mechanisms by which PGE 1 alters the course of murine lupus.
An appreciation of the scientific life and achievements of Bruce Merrifield.

Bruce Merrifield's scientific biography, 'Life During a Golden Age of Peptide Chemistry: The Concept and Development of Solid-Phase Peptide Synthesis', provides a history of solid phase-peptide synthesis (SPPS) from 1959 to 1993 [1]. While many readers will be familiar with SPPS literature after 1963, the inclusion of unpublished material from Merrifield's early laboratory notebooks opens a fascinating window on the development of SPPS from the formulation of concept in 1959 (p. 56, ref. 1) to the synthesis of a tetrapeptide four years later [2]. This early period was characterized by slow progress interrupted by numerous setbacks that led Bruce to later record (p. 90, ref. 1): 'At the end of the first two years the results were so poor, I wonder what made me think that this approach would ever succeed; but from the outset I had a strong conviction that this was a good idea, and I am glad that I stayed with it long enough'. Garland Marshall, Bruce's first graduate student (1963-1966), as well as later colleagues, were essentially unaware of the many highways, byways and dead ends that Bruce had explored in the early years [3].
Hands on software engineering: building a Java software engineering development environment

This paper describes the team and software engineering experiences of a group of undergraduate computer science students doing their final project class before graduation. The project was to build and deliver a Java software engineering development environment The students were organized into teams that had specific assignments to deliver portions of the product. The students established a Web page to track their progress and kept metrics on all of their effort. They defined and followed a software development life cycle. This was the first time these students had worked on a real deliverable product. The results of the semester long class was a bootable system running under Linux that is a complete Java software engineering development environment. It is being used today to drive a Web server and a shared development environment for a consulting organization and their clients. The final delivered cost, including the cost of the CDROM was less than $10.00. This team oriented, product focused class was successful in having the students demonstrate to themselves the value of software engineering disciplines and practices.
Positioning analysis for hospitality firms

Abstract The positioning of hospitality firms in the market-place is an essential component of effective marketing in today's highly competitive environment. Essential to optimal positioning is a knowledge of the importance and perceived deliverability of benefits to the consumer for both the firm and its competition. This paper describes a methodology for the determination and analysis of those benefits that can be utilized most effectively by a hospitality firm and that has practical implications for firms of any size.
Reporting computational experiments in mathematical programming

This paper presents a set of recommended standards for the presentation of computational experiments in mathematical programming.
Synthesis and Characterization of Single-Crystal Strontium Hexaboride Nanowires

Catalyst-assisted growth of single-crystal strontium hexaboride (SrB6) nanowires was achieved by pyrolysis of diborane (B2H6) over SrO powders at 760−800 °C and 400 mTorr in a quartz tube furnace. Raman spectra demonstrate that the nanowires are SrB6, and transmission electron microscopy along with selected area diffraction indicate that the nanowires consist of single crystals with a preferred [001] growth direction. Electron energy loss data combined with the TEM images indicate that the nanowires consist of crystalline SrB6 cores with a thin (1 to 2 nm) amorphous oxide shell. The nanowires have diameters of 10−50 nm and lengths of 1−10 μm.
Mitochondrial metabolism, redox signaling, and fusion: a mitochondria-ROS-HIF-1α-Kv1.5 O2-sensing pathway at the intersection of pulmonary hypertension and cancer

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a lethal syndrome characterized by vascular obstruction and right ventricular failure. Although the fundamental cause remains elusive, many predisposing and...
Aluminized Solid Propellants Burning in a Rocket Motor Flowfield

Combustion and agglomeration processes of aluminum particles emitted from the surface of an aluminized double-base propellant (NC/TMETN) were studied under rocket motor, crossflow conditions. High-speed color photographs (-2000 frames/s) were taken of burning AI/AI2O3 agglomerates forming on the surface, moving along the surface, and entering the flowfield. As an example, a propellant containing 6-^m Al burning at 7 MPa and 6 m/s crossflow produced a mean agglomerate size of about 250 ^m. Analysis of size distributions of the agglomerates leaving the surface revealed that the following parameters decrease with increasing pressure: collision frequency on the surface, the agglomerate stay time on the surface, and mean agglomerate size. Increasing the crossflow velocity decreased the mean agglomerate size. The propellants which contained the large aluminum particles (50 /*m vs 6 j*m) burned without the aluminum igniting or agglomerating on the surface.
Studies of snake venoms on blood coagulation I. The thromboserpentin (thrombin-like) enzyme in the venoms

Abstract An experimental survey was made on the thrombin-like activity of the venoms from forty-three species of all four groups of snakes. The term “thromboserpentin” is introduced for this activity to differentiate it from other endopeptidases contained in snake venoms. Thromboserpentin activity was estimated by the “fibrin time”, denoting the first macroscopic appearance of fibrin strands, and by the gelation time, denoting the appearance of a gel. Thromboserpentin activity was found in most of the Crotalidae group of venoms. Vipera ammodytes venom was the only one in the Viperidae group with thromboserpentin activity, and none was found in the venoms of the Elapidae and Hydrophidae groups of snakes. Heparin and peanut inhibitor were used to characterize the mode of action of the thromboserpentin enzyme. Heat treatment was employed to eliminate other venom containing proteases which might interfere with the gelation time of the fibrinogen-thromboserpentin systems. Rigid fibrin gels were observed in these systems in the presence of high concentrations of heparin. The heparin action on thromboserpentin-fibrinogen systems is discussed in relation to a heparin-thrombin complex and a heparin-fibrin complex. The possibility of the role of heparin on the gelation phase, in addition to its role as an anticoagulant, is discussed in connection with the findings that the fibrin gels induced by the venoms of Agkistrodon mokeson and Lachesis mutus do not dissolve, but remain firm. A close relationship is proposed to exist between heparin and fibrin gel structure, induced either by thrombin or by thromboserpentin. The presented findings of the action of peanut inhibitor suggest that it inhibits specifically thromboserpentin. The application of thromboserpentin is considered useful for studies on the polymerization, gelation and cross-linking of fibrin.
An Interprofessional Diabetes Experience to Improve Pharmacy and Nursing Students’ Competency in Collaborative Practice

Objective. To improve pharmacy and nursing students’ competency in collaborative practice by having them participate in an interprofessional diabetes experience involving social networking.Design. An existing elective course on diabetes management was modified to include interprofessional content based on Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) competency domains. Web-based collaborative tools (social networking and video chat) were used to allow nursing and pharmacy students located on 2 different campuses to apply diabetes management content as an interprofessional team.Assessment. Mixed-method analyses demonstrated an increase in students’ knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of the other profession and developed an understanding of interprofessional communication strategies and their central role in effective teamwork.Conclusion. Interprofessional content and activities can be effectively integrated into an existing course and offered successfully to students from other professional pr...
STEM intervention programs: funding practices and challenges

This study examines the funding practices and challenges of diversity initiatives found in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Interviews with 55 intervention program administrators, representing 48 unique STEM intervention programs, were conducted at nine large research-intensive universities. The interviews, which examined the design, structure, implementation, and funding challenges of STEM interventions, revealed that institutional funding priorities often run counter to national efforts to increase diversity within STEM. As institutions face budget cuts and reduced external funding, institutional support of STEM interventions reflects the university's commitment (or lack thereof) to diversifying the STEM fields. Many programs struggled with changes in funding over time, inadequate staffing and service delivery, and long-term program sustainability.
On boundaries of hyperbolic Coxeter groups

Abstract Assume that the nerve K of a hyperbolic Coxeter group Γ is n -connected and the complement K⧹Δ to every simplex is n -connected. Then the boundary ∂Γ is n -connected and locally n -connected.
Synthesis and Characterization of (μ-H)2Os3(CO)9(PPh3)(μ-CH2) and Related Compounds. Phosphine Ligand Effects on the Methylene/Methyl Tautomerization

Treatment of the phosphine ligand derivatives (μ-H)2Os3(CO)9L (L = PEt3, PEt2Ph, PPh3, PiPrPh2, PCy3) with excess ethereal diazomethane at −78 °C provides a set of compounds with the formula Os3(CO)9L(“CH4”). As isolated solids these compounds exist as methylene ligand complexes, and the structure of (μ-H)2Os3(CO)9(PPh3)(μ-CH2) has been determined by single-crystal X-ray crystallography. A triangular array of osmium atoms supports a methylene moiety bridging one Os−Os vector, and the triphenylphosphine ligand is bound to the remaining osmium center in an "in-plane” position. The hydride ligands have been located and refined; one also bridges the same edge as the methylene ligand, and the other forms a single bridge in a position cis to the phosphine ligand. Analysis of the solution 1H and 13C NMR spectra of (μ-H)2Os3(CO)9(PPh3)(μ-CH2) indicates that the solid-state structure is maintained in solution. However, also present in solution is a methyl tautomer, (μ-H)Os3(CO)9(PPh3)(μ-CH3), the structure of whic...
Relation between mobility factor and diffusion factor for thermoset cure

Abstract The temperature-modulated differential scanning calorimetry (TMDSC) responses during cure of both epoxy/aromatic amine and dicyanate ester/polycyanurate systems are modeled using chemical reaction kinetics with diffusion control. Physical aging effects are incorporated into the model using the Tool–Narayanaswamy–Moynihan (TNM) equation. We investigate the assumption that the mobility factor, which may be obtained from experimental temperature-modulated differential scanning calorimetry reversing heat flow data, is related to the diffusion factor for the two systems.
Mechanism of cerebral edema in children with diabetic ketoacidosis

Abstract Objectives Cerebral edema during diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) has been attributed to osmotic cellular swelling during treatment. We evaluated cerebral water distribution and cerebral perfusion during DKA treatment in children. Study design We imaged 14 children during DKA treatment and after recovery, using both diffusion and perfusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We assessed the apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) and measures reflecting cerebral perfusion. Results The ADC was significantly elevated during DKA treatment (indicating increased water diffusion) in all regions except the occipital gray matter. Mean reductions in the ADC from initial to postrecovery MRI were: basal ganglia 4.7 ± 2.5 × 10 −5 mm 2 /s ( P =.002), thalamus 3.7 ± 2.8 × 10 −5 mm 2 /s, ( P =.002), periaqueductal gray matter 4.3 ± 5.1 × 10 −5 mm 2 /s ( P =.03), and frontal white matter 2.0 ± 3.1 × 10 −5 mm 2 /s ( P =.03). In contrast, the ADC in the occipital gray matter increased significantly from the initial to postrecovery MRI (mean increase 3.9 ± 3.9 × 10 −5 mm 2 /s, P =.004). Perfusion MRI during DKA treatment revealed significantly shorter mean transit times (MTTs) and higher peak tracer concentrations, possibly indicating increased cerebral blood flow (CBF). Conclusions Elevated ADC values during DKA treatment suggests a vasogenic process as the predominant mechanism of edema formation rather than osmotic cellular swelling.
Photoreceptor spike responses in the hardshell clam, Mercenaria mercenaria.

Spikes were recorded from single axons in the siphonal nerve of the hardshell clam Mercenaria mercenaria which respond to dimming of light. No axons were found to respond to the onset, or increase, of illumination. In a dark-adapted state there is little or no ongoing spike activity. The responsive area of a single axon is a circle of approximately 85 µm diameter on the inner siphon wall. The number of spikes elicited at the off of constant-duration flashes grows as approximately the 0.4 power of flash intensity. For constant intensity and constant light-time fraction, the off-response increases with increasing duration at least up to 500 s duration. For long durations, the response grows as the logarithm of stimulus duration. Subthreshold light can suppress the off-response from preceding illumination. In a light-adapted state, the off-response is greater and its latency shorter than in the dark-adapted state. The fine structure of groups of cell processes thought to comprise the photoreceptor in Mercenaria is described. On the basis of morphological and physiological findings it is suggested that phototransduction occurs in the fine distal processes of the axons from which we have recorded. Axonal processes were found to contain well organized pentalaminar whorls which may be the site of photo-pigment concentration. The action spectrum obtained from the integrated responses of nerve bundles appears to be that of a single Dartnall pigment having maximal absorption at about 510 nm.
Putting pressure on pre-eclampsia.

Women with pre-eclampsia, a potentially deadly complication of pregnancy, produce agonistic autoantibodies against angiotensin receptor-1, a transmembrane protein that regulates blood pressure. Findings in mice suggest how these antibodies might help trigger the condition (pages 855–862).
Nanoindentation, Nanoscratch and Wear Studies on Nanoscale Multilayer TiN/CrN Coatings

In the present study, multilayer TiN/CrN coatings at different bilayer thicknesses have been deposited on silicon (100) and 316 stainless steel substrates using reactive DC magnetron sputtering technique. Nanoindentation, nanoscratch and ball-on-disk tribometer tests were used to characterize the films. Nanoindentation measurements showed enhancement in hardness values for all multilayer coatings with maximum hardness reaching 34 GPa which is about 45% improvement over the rule of mixtures. Nanoscratch tests revealed higher critical loads for multilayer coatings compared to monolayer TiN and CrN coatings. The tribometer tests showed better sliding wear performance for TiN/CrN superlattices.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Where the paddle meets the stream: bridging systems design theory and community-based monitoring practice

My research is focused on computer support for community-based monitoring, at the intersection of citizen science, volunteered geographic information (VGI), and mobile crowdsourcing. Local-scale volunteer monitoring programs face a particular tension: the need to demonstrate the quality of the data they collect, while having limited resources available to provision and sustain ICT for data management and provenance tracking. As both a practitioner and an ethnographer, I am exploring ways to resolve this tension by documenting the challenges I observe and by proposing design recommendations where appropriate. My research to date is exemplified in "wq", which is both a set of design principles and a modular software framework I have built to address these challenges.
Translating Structured English to Robot Controllers

Recently, Linear Temporal Logic (LTL) has been successfully applied to high-level task and motion planning problems for mobile robots. One of the main attributes of LTL is its close relationship with fragments of natural language. In this paper, we take the first steps toward building a natural language interface for LTL planning methods with mobile robots as the application domain. For this purpose, we built a structured English language which maps directly to a fragment of LTL.
A polyadenylation factor subunit is the human homologue of the Drosophila suppressor of forked protein.

POLYADENYLATION of messenger RNA precursors is a complex process that requires multiple protein factors (for reviews, see refs 1, 2). Cleavage stimulation factor (CstF) is one of these, function-ing together with cleavage-polyadenylation specificity factor, two cleavage factors, and poly(A)+ polymerase3–7. CstF is composed of three subunits of Mr 77, 64 and 50K8,9. The 64K10 and 50K11 subunits contain, respectively, an RNP-type RNA-binding domain that contacts the pre-mRNA and transducin repeats characteristic of G-protein β-subunits. Here we report the cloning and characterization of the 77K subunit of human CstF (referred to as 77K). We show that the 77K subunit is required for formation of active CstF and bridges the 64K and 50K subunits. Sequence analyses indicate that the 77K subunit is the homologue of the protein encoded by the Drosophila melanogaster suppressor of forked (su(f)) gene12. Mutations insu(f) can enhance or suppress the effects of transposable element insertions13, and our data indicate that this is due to changes in polyadenylation. Both the 77K subunit and the su(f) protein share homology with Saccharomyces cerevisiae RNA14, previously shown to be involved in mRNA metabolism14. Our results thus also indicate that components of the complex polyadenylation machinery are conserved from yeast to man.
A New Cyclic AMP-independent, Gs-mediated Stimulatory Mechanism via the Adenosine A2a Receptor in the Intact Cardiac Cell *

The objectives of this study were to investigate the mechanism underlying the adenosine A2a receptor (A2aR)-mediated positive inotropic response and to define its contractile function using chick embryo ventricular cells as a model. Activation of the A2aR caused a marked stimulation of calcium entry and cell contractility, which were blocked by verapamil or nifedipine. The effects elicited by maximal concentrations of the A2aR agonist 2-[4-(2-carboxyethyl)phenylethylamino]-5′-N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine and the β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol were additive, indicating that the two receptors do not share a common stimulatory mechanism. The cAMP antagonist (Rp)-adenosine cyclic 3′:5′-monophosphorothioate was ineffective in inhibiting the A2aR-mediated stimulation of contractility or the L-type calcium channel, while it completely abolished the isoproterenol effects. Activation of the A2aR had no effect on Na+/Ca2+ exchange or inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate accumulation. Blocking of the A2aR resulted in unopposed A1 receptor-mediated inhibitory effects and led to an inhibition of basal contractility and an enhanced anti-adrenergic effect by A1 agonist. The adenosine A2a receptor mediates a new cyclic AMP-independent mechanism and a new contractile function in the cardiac cell.
Photoaffinity labeling of Escherichia coli ribosomes with an aryl azide analogue of puromycin

Affinity labeling studies have contributed hnportantly in the indentification of several functional sites on the E. coli ribosome [l-3] . The puromycin binding site has been the subject of several such studies [4-91. We have shown that native puromycin can itself be used as a specific photoaffmity label [4,5]. To investigate the question of to what extent the labeling results obtained in this work were dependent on the special photochemical reaction(s) leading to incorporation, we have begun a program to repeat the photoaffinity labeling experiment with several different photolabile derivatives of puromycin. We describe here the synthesis and characterization of a new photolabile derivative of puromycin, 6-dimethylamino-P [ 3’-deoxy-3’-(p-azido-L-phenylalanylamino)/3-D-ribofuranosyl] purine, which we call ‘p-azidopuromycin’ (fig.l), and present preliminary ribosomal photolabeling results obtained with this derivative.
Instrumentation for a boiling water reactor

A description is given of the instrumentation for the Vallecitos Boiling Water Reactor, a small-scale power reactor supplying steam to a turbine operated by the Pacific Gas & Electric Company as part of their generating facilities. An attempt has been made in the design of the plant to keep the instrumentation as simple as possible.
A system generation for a small operating system

A system generation utility has been developed to assist students in producing IBM PC-based multitasking applications targeted for the small operating system (SOS) developed by Jerry E. Sayers. Our aim is to augment SOS by enabling a student to interactively tailor the characteristics of the operating system to meet the requirements of a particular application. The system allows the user to adjust factors such as: initial state, priority, and scheduling method of concurrently executed tasks, and, also, use of system resources. A custom operating system is produced by invoking a MAKE utility to bind SOS with application-specific code, in addition to intermediate source code created during the system generation process.Testing of the system included implementing an application that adds column vectors in a 5 × 5000 matrix concurrently. Further testing involves using the system generation utility along with SOS as part of an undergraduate operating systems class at East Tennessee State University.
Thermodynamic feedback between clouds and the ocean surface mixed layer

A cloud—ocean planetary boundary layer (OPBL) feedback mechanism is presented and tested in this paper. Water vapor, evaporated from the ocean surface or transported by the large—scale air flow, often forms convective clouds under a conditionally unstable lapse rate. The variable cloud cover and rainfall may have positive and negative feedback with the ocean mixed layer temperature and salinity structure. The coupling of the simplified Kuo's (1965) cumulus cloud model to the Kraus—Turner's (1967) ocean mixed layer model shows the existence of this feedback mechanism. The theory also predicts the generation of low frequency oscillation in the atmosphere and oceans.
Deliberate quin2 overload as a method for in situ characterization of active calcium extrusion systems and cytoplasmic calcium binding: application to the human platelet.

The objectives of the title were accomplished by a four-step experimental procedure followed by a simple graphical and mathematical analysis. Platelets are (i) overloaded with the indicator quin2 to cytoplasmic concentrations of 2.9mm and (ii) are exposed to 2mm external Ca2+ and 1.0 μm ionomycin to rapidly achieve cytoplasmic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]cyt) of ca. 1.5 μm. (iii) The external Ca2+ is removed by EGTA addition, and (iv) the active Ca2+ extrusion process is then monitored as a function of time. Control experiments show that the ionophore shunts dense tubular uptake and does not contribute to the Ca2+ efflux process during phases iii–iv and that the extrusion process is sensitive to metabolic inhibitors. The progress curves for the decline of quin2 fluorescence (resulting from active Ca2+ extrusion) were analyzed as a function of [Ca2+]cyt using a mathematical model involving the probability that an exported Ca2+ was removed from a quin2 complex (vs. a cytoplasmic binding element). The observed rates of decline of quin2 fluorescence at a particular [Ca2+]cyt are dependent upon (i) the absolute rate of the extrusion system (a function of itsK m, Vm and Hill coefficient (n)), (ii) the intrinsic Ca2+ buffer capacity of the cytoplasm (a function of the total site concentration ([B] T ) and itsK d) and (iii) the buffer capacity of the intracytoplasmic quin2 (a function of its concentration andK d). The contribution of (iii) was known and varied and was used to determine (ii) and (i) as a function of [Ca2+]cyt. The Ca2+ binding data were verified by45Ca2+ experimentation. The data fit a single binding site ([B] T =730±200 μm) with an averageK d of 140±10n m. This can be accounted for by platelet-associated calmodulin. The rate of the Ca2+ extrusionvs. [Ca2+]cyt curve can be described by two components: A saturable one withV m=2.3±0.3 nmol min−1 mg-membrane−1,K m=80±10 andn=1.7±0.3 (probably identified with a Ca2+-ATPase pump) and a linear one (probably identified with a Na+/Ca2+ exchanger).
Financial services for microenterprises: Principles and institutions

Abstract This article argues for the use of a financial systems approach in the provision of financial services to the poor. The experience of the last decade has produced a successful technology for credit delivery that utilizes sound financial principles as its basis, that is: understanding the needs of the client; increasing efficiency by cutting administrative costs; and using various techniques to motivate repayment. Savings receives equal emphasis as a financial service, and several principles for its provision are discussed. The institutional dimensions behind this approach focus on the need to achieve self-sufficiency, which the article frames as a four-stage process. Finally, the article outlines various factors related to creating financial institutions that reach the poor and the policy implications that these suggest.
S-system modelling of complex systems with chaotic input

Environmental systems are characterized by large numbers of constituents and processes at hierarchical levels of organization. These levels range from elemental chemical and physical phenomena to multi-faceted ecosystems that are subject to natural and anthropogenic influences. The analysis of environmental systems is complicated because the governing processes are usually complex and ill defined. In addition to the structural complexity of the investigated phenomena themselves, environmental systems are difficult to analyze because they are constantly exposed to inputs that appear to fluctuate in a chaotic fashion. S-system models have the potential to address this situation. They are sets of nonlinear ordinary differential equations that were developed as representations for organizationally complex models, primarily in biology and biochemistry. They are characterized by a mathematical structure that allows efficient symbolic and numerical analysis of key features such as steady states, stabilities, sensitivities, and gains. At the same time, S-systems are structurally rich enough to capture virtually all relevant continuous nonlinearities. This paper begins with a brief review of two key features of S-systems: modelling and simulation based on power-law approximation; and the transformation method of recasting which allows differential equations to be formulated exactly as S-systems. The paper then discusses how chaotically fluctuating input can be simulated with a recast S-system based on deterministic chaos and how this recast S-system can be used as an input module for environmental phenomena that are represented as S-system models via power-law approximation.
Unusual Intensities in the Resonance Raman Spectra and Excitation Profiles of an Intervalence Metal-to-Metal Charge Transfer Complex

The resonance Raman spectra of the metal-to-metal charge transfer (MMCT) mixed-valence complex [(OC)5Cr0−CN−OsIII(NH3)5](CF3SO3)2 are measured and analyzed. The excitation profiles (the Raman intensities as a function of excitation wavelength) are obtained using the SO3 stretch of the triflate ion as an internal standard. The ratios of the Raman intensities are not constant with different excitation wavelengths. This unusual observation is attributed to interference between two overlapping electronic states of the molecule. The electronic states are observed in the low-temperature polarized single crystal absorption spectrum. The resonance Raman intensities and excitation profiles are calculated with the time dependent theory of spectroscopy and include the interference between the electronic states. The origin of the unusual intensities is quantitatively explained in terms of the real and imaginary parts of the Raman cross sections from the two states.
Molecular basis of double‐stranded RNA‐protein interactions: structure of a dsRNA‐binding domain complexed with dsRNA

Protein interactions with double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) are critical for many cell processes; however, in contrast to protein-dsDNA interactions, surprisingly little is known about the molecular basis of protein-dsRNA interactions. A large and diverse class of proteins that bind dsRNA do so by utilizing an approximately 70 amino acid motif referred to as the dsRNA-binding domain (dsRBD). We have determined a 1.9 A resolution crystal structure of the second dsRBD of Xenopus laevis RNA-binding protein A complexed with dsRNA. The structure shows that the protein spans 16 bp of dsRNA, interacting with two successive minor grooves and across the intervening major groove on one face of a primarily A-form RNA helix. The nature of these interactions explains dsRBD specificity for dsRNA (over ssRNA or dsDNA) and the apparent lack of sequence specificity. Interestingly, the dsRBD fold resembles a portion of the conserved core structure of a family of polynucleotidyl transferases that includes RuvC, MuA transposase, retroviral integrase and RNase H. Structural comparisons of the dsRBD-dsRNA complex and models proposed for polynucleotidyl transferase-nucleic acid complexes suggest that similarities in nucleic acid binding also exist between these families of proteins.
Hyperhydrating effect of acute administration of angiotensin II in rats.

Abstract Water intake, urine output, and fluid exchange (water intake less urine output) were measured in rats at hourly intervals for 7 hours and at 24 hours following acute administration of angiotensin II (AII, 200 μg/kg SC). AII induced the expected abrupt increase in water intake and a more gradual increase in urine output. The change in fluid exchange (fluid exchange of the AII-treated group less fluid exchange of controls) became positive within the first hour after treatment with AII, decreased linearly with time, and reached 0 at approximately 10 to 12 hours after treatment with AII. When AII was administered intracerebroventricularly (50 ng), similar results were observed. In this case, the change in fluid exchange (ΔF) reached 0 in about 6 hours. Imposition of a water load (1% of body weight, IP) on the group receiving AII SC failed to affect the time required for ΔF to reach 0 if the water load was disregarded. However, inclusion of the load as a part of intake extended the time the rats remained in positive fluid balance beyond that of the nonloaded, AII-treated control group. In the case of the larger water load (3% of body weight, IP), ΔF returned to that of controls in about 4 to 5 hours if the water load was disregarded. However, inclusion of the load as part of intake extended the period of hyperhydration well beyond that of both the nonloaded, AII-treated group and the AII-treated group given the 1% load. The results indicate that an acute injection of AII, either peripherally or centrally, can induce a state of hyperhydration in rats that lasts for approximately 6 to 12 hours, depending on the route of administration of AII. Imposition of a water load in combination with acute administration of AII can extend the duration of hyperhydration. The results are also of interest bea of the duration of hyperhydration following administration of AII and other dipsogenic agents.
Problems in the estimation and interpretation of the reliability of survey data

In this paper I discuss several of the difficulties involved in estimating the reliability of survey measurement. Reliability is defined on the basis of classical true-score theory, as the correlational consistency of multiple measures of the same construct, net of true change. This concept is presented within the framework of a theoretical discussion of the sources of error in survey data and the design requirements for separating response variation into components representing such response consistency and measurement errors. Discussion focuses on the potential sources of random and nonrandom errors, including “invalidity” of measurement, the term frequently used to refer to components of method variance. Problems with the estimation of these components are enumerated and discussed with respect to both cross-sectional and panel designs. Empirical examples are given of the estimation of the quantities of interest, which are the basis of a discussion of the interpretational difficulties encountered in reliability estimation. Data are drawn from the ISR's Quality of Life surveys, the National Election Studies and the NORC's General Social Surveys. The general conclusion is that both cross-sectional and panel estimates of measurement reliability are desirable, but for the purposes of isolating the random component of error, panel designs are probably the most advantageous.
Meeting decision makers' needs for evidence-based information on child and family policy

Explains the rationale behind the Promising Practices Network on Children, Families and Outcomes, discusses its content, and looks at its possible future direction.