cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
WISP3-dependent regulation of type II collagen and aggrecan production in chondrocytes.

Objective WISP3 (Wnt-1–inducible secreted protein 3) is a member of the CCN (connective tissue growth factor, cysteine-rich 61, nephroblastoma overexpressed) family of connective tissue growth factors. WISP3 mutations have been linked to progressive pseudorheumatoid dysplasia (PPRD). The present study was conducted to investigate whether WISP3 is responsible for the expression of cartilage-specific molecules. Methods WISP3 expression in human cartilage was assessed by immunostaining with anti-WISP3 antibody. The effect of WISP3 on chondrocyte-specific gene regulation was determined by transfecting human chondrocyte lines C-28/I2 and T/C-28a2 with a WISP3 expression vector. Alterations in WISP3-mediated messenger RNA and protein expression of cartilage-specific molecules were assessed by reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting. Results Immunohistochemistry experiments demonstrated that WISP3 protein is expressed in the midzone chondrocytes of normal adult articular cartilage, in chondrocyte clusters of osteoarthritic cartilage, and in the zone of proliferating chondrocytes of fetal growth cartilage. Human chondrocyte lines C-28/I2 and T/C-28a2 transfected with a WISP3 expression vector produced increased amounts of the cartilage-specific matrix molecules type II collagen and aggrecan, in part via activation of the sex-determining region Y–type high mobility group box (SOX) family of transcription factors. In contrast, a mutant WISP3, previously found to be associated with PPRD, had impaired effects on cartilage-specific gene expression. Conclusion Our experimental results suggest that WISP3 supports cartilage integrity by regulating the expression of type II collagen and aggrecan, and mutations linked with PPRD can compromise this function and produce cartilage loss.
Stable isotopes in mammalian research: a beginner's guide

We open this Special Feature on stable isotopes in mammalian research with a beginner’s guide, an introduction to the novice and a refresher to the well-versed. In this guide we provide the background needed to understand the more advanced papers that follow. We describe the basic principles of isotopic fractionation and discrimination, briefly explain the processes that govern isotopic incorporation into animal tissues, list some innovative studies, and provide cautionary notes and caveats. In addition to discussing the uses of natural abundance we present the concepts and applications of enriched isotopes and the potential combination of these 2 methodologies. We end with descriptions of analytical and conceptual developments that we believe will be cardinal to the future of isotopic analyses in mammalian research.
Synthesis and characterization of a DNA probe complementary to rat liver 28S ribosomal RNA

Abstract Conditions for the production of a complementary DNA sequence for use in studies of ribosomal RNA are described. E . coli DNA polymerase I is used to transcribe highly purified 28S ribosomal RNA from rat liver. The reaction is sensitive to the tertiary structure of the rRNA template-primer. The complementary DNA hybridizes to its rRNA template with a R o t 1 2 of 0.02. The hybrid formed between 28S ribosomal RNA and complementary DNA has a Tm of 73°C. The probe reacts with total rat nuclear RNA with a R o t 1 2 of 1.0.
Internal structure of coalitions in competitive and altruistic graphical coalitional games

This paper introduces a certain graphical coalitional game where the internal topology of the coalition depends on a prescribed communication graph structure among the agents. The game Value Function is required to satisfy four Axioms of Value. These axioms make it possible to provide a refined study of coalition structures on graphs by defining a formal graphical game and by assigning a Positional Advantage, based on the Shapley value, to each agent in a coalition based on its connectivity properties within the graph. Using the Axioms of Value the graphical coalitional game can be shown to satisfy properties such as convexity, fairness, cohesiveness, and full cooperativeness. Three measures of the contributions of agents to a coalition are introduced: marginal contribution, competitive contribution, and altruistic contribution. The mathematical framework given here is used to establish results regarding the dependence of these three types of contributions on the graph topology, and changes in these contributions due to changes in graph topology. Based on these different contributions, three online sequential decision games are defined on top of the graphical coalitional game, and the stable graphs under each of these sequential decision games are studied. It is shown that the stable graphs under the objective of maximizing the marginal contribution are any connected graph. The stable graphs under the objective of maximizing the competitive contribution are the complete graph. The stable graphs under the objective of maximizing the altruistic contribution are any tree.
Measurement of suberythema UVA radiation effects on skin by 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) scans were obtained from the same anatomical location in four healthy Caucasian individuals before and after 1/2 MED UVA radiation. Suberythema UVA radiation induced in skin production of phosphomonoesters, phosphodiesters, and also depleted phosphocreatine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This data seems to indicate that 31 P MRS is a sensitive enough technique to detect UVA induced changes in skin phosphometabolites. Furthermore, this data also appears to indicate that suberythema UVA radiation and dexamethasone induce in skin nearly identical pharmacodynamic effects.
Intramolecular Homolytic Aromatic Substitution of Alkyl 2-Benzimidazolyl Sulfones as a Means of Entry into Alkyl Radicals for Organic Synthesis

The intramolecular radical aromatic substitution of heteroaryl sulfones by tethered aryl radicals has been investigated as a source of alkyl radicals. The 1-(2-iodobenzyl)benzimidazole-2-sulfonyl system was found to be the most effective, while a tetrazole-based system did not undergo the desired radical aromatic substitution at all. Application of the benzimidazole-based system to the generation of alkyl radical and their subsequent use in radical cyclizations was demonstrated.
Kinetic analysis of dynamic 13C NMR spectra: metabolic flux, regulation, and compartmentation in hearts.

Control of oxidative metabolism was studied using 13C NMR spectroscopy to detect rate-limiting steps in 13C labeling of glutamate. 13C NMR spectra were acquired every 1 or 2 min from isolated rabbit hearts perfused with either 2.5 mM [2–13C]acetate or 2.5 mM [2–13C]butyrate with or without KCl arrest. Tricarboxylic acid cycle flux (VTCA) and the exchange rate between alpha-ketoglutarate and glutamate (F1) were determined by least-square fitting of a kinetic model to NMR data. Rates were compared to measured kinetics of the cardiac glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT). Despite similar oxygen use, hearts oxidizing butyrate instead of acetate showed delayed incorporation of 13C label into glutamate and lower VTCA, because of the influence of beta-oxidation: butyrate = 7.1 +/- 0.2 mumol/min/g dry wt; acetate = 10.1 +/- 0.2; butyrate + KCl = 1.8 +/- 0.1; acetate + KCl = 3.1 +/- 0.1 (mean +/- SD). F1 ranged from a low of 4.4 +/- 1.0 mumol/min/g (butyrate + KCl) to 9.3 +/- 0.6 (acetate), at least 20-fold slower than GOT flux, and proved to be rate limiting for isotope turnover in the glutamate pool. Therefore, dynamic 13C NMR observations were sensitive not only to TCA cycle flux but also to the interconversion between TCA cycle intermediates and glutamate.
Heat Resistance of Salmonella in Dried Milk

Abstract The effects of heat, moisture, storage temperatures, and chemical additives on the growth and survival of salmonellae in nonfat dried milks were determined. Artificially contaminated powders of various moisture levels were subjected to tests which included storage at temperatures of 4.4 to 50 C, storage with chemical additives, exposure of thin layers to oven heat ranging from 60 to 115 C, boiling of fixed beds of powder with hot air streams at 87.7 to 148.8 C, and determination of time-temperature necessary for destruction of salmonellae in fluid and concentrated milks. Moisture levels and storage temperatures influenced growth and survival, and salmonellae added to nonfat dried milk were quite resistant to dry heat.
COMMENTARY: SIMPLE GASES AND COMPLEX SINGLE VENTRICLES

Management of patients born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome or other complex single ventricle anatomy continues to challenge the technical skills of surgeons and the innovation and vigilance of those involved in perioperative care. Although mortality substantially improved after the introduction of palliative techniques for patients with single ventricle physiology who require complex aortic arch reconstruction, 1-3 the national experience still suggests less than optimal outcomes for many patients. 4
The Effects of Parental Divorce on College Students

Abstract This study investigated the experiences of 17 college students whose parents divorced while they were in college. The survey explored three major areas of interest: The student's initial reaction to the divorce, the impact of the divorce on the student's relationship with their parents and family, and the impact of the divorce on the student on a personal level. Results revealed that about half of the students saw their parents' divorce coming. A few students reported that they did not see the divorce coming at that particular time; however, they were not surprised to learn of it. Most of the students believed that their parents had stayed together for as long as they did “for the sake of the children.” Many students responded that the divorce resulted in a closer relationship with their mother and a more strained relationship with their father, and that the divorce caused them particular difficulty around the holidays. Many said the divorce resulted in some sort of difficulty with their own inti...
Low pressure OMVPE of ZnSe with hydrogen selenide and dimethylzinc-triethylamine

The growth and nitrogen doping of ZnSe by low pressure organometallic vapor phase epitaxy (OMVPE) have been investigated in a vertical downflow reactor equipped with a laser interferometer for in-situ growth rate measurements, and a microwave plasma cavity for precracking of ammonia for nitrogen doping. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding growth characteristics obtained with H2Se and the new adduct source dimethylzincrtriethylamine (DMZn:NEt3), as compared to those obtained with H2Se and DMZn. At higher temperatures and pressures, growth results obtained with DMZn:NEt3 are similar to those obtained using DMZn with the morphology exhibiting familiar hillock-shaped features. At lower temperatures (<300°C) and pressures (<30 Torr), growth rates are higher with the adduct source and the surface morphology is improved relative to films synthesized with DMZn. Hall measurements and photo-luminescence spectra of the grown films demonstrate that DMZn and DMZn:NEt3 produce material with comparable electronic and optical properties. Microwave plasma decomposition of ammonia is investigated as a possible approach to increasing nitrogen incorporation in ZnSe and photoluminescence spectra are compared to those realized with conventional ammonia doping.
It's About Time: Catching Method Up to Meaning—The Usefulness of Narrative Inquiry in Public Administration Research

As a form of interpretive research, narrative inquiry contributes to the pursuit of high-quality public administration scholarship, along with other forms of explanatory research that have dominated the field. In this article we discuss the unique features of narrative inquiry, review how this research orientation has been used in public administration, and use our experience with a national, multimodal, multiyear research project on social-change leadership in the United States to identify and illustrate the contributions of narrative inquiry to address two key issues in the field: the concern with good research and the aspiration to cultivate a meaningful connection between researchers and practitioners in the field.
Rapid kinetic studies on the conformation of single-stranded DNA

The conformational states of single-stranded calf thymus DNA were probed using the tmeperature-jump kinetic technique. A rapid decrease in transmission at 260 nm followed by a broad relaxation spectrum was observed for single-stranded DNA at 0.15M KCI, pH, 6.5 at 25°. The relaxation spectrum could also be detected as a hydrogen ion release. Sonicated samples of 103,000 daltons showed identical relaxation kinetics as unsonicated samples. The relaxation kinetics were studied as a function of temperature, pH, and salt concentration and could be interpreted as representing the melting of short, isolated folded segments. The rapid process that could not be kinetically resolved is interpreted as single-strand unstacking. Upon the addition of excess MgCl2 at pH 7.0, a hydrogen ion release from single-stranded DNA was observed that was 3.5 times greater than that observed for a comparable sample of native DNA. Evidence is presented which indicates that charge-pairs exist in folded segments that are A-T rich. There was no kinetic evidence of structures in single-stranded DNA other than single-stranded stacking and short isolated folded regions.
Mathematical myths: Teacher candidates' beliefs and the implications for teacher educators

Abstract For more than 2 decades, professional, state, and federal agencies have adopted educational standards aimed at improving mathematics instruction. One way of measuring the success of these adopted standards is to examine their impact on the mathematics attitudes and beliefs of students who received their education during this reform period. How teachers approach and implement these mathematics standards is heavily influenced by what they believe about mathematics content and pedagogy. For those who seek to improve mathematics education, examining beliefs regarding mathematics and the factors that influence those beliefs is imperative. In this paper we explore the persistence of teacher candidates' beliefs in myths despite changing educational standards. The beliefs of 76 current elementary teacher candidates were compared to beliefs of 131 elementary teacher candidates from 1990. The results confirm the pervasiveness and persistence of math myths among female elementary teacher candidates.
Inhibition of rat liver transaminases by low levels of acetaldehyde and the pharmacologic effects of B6 vitamers

To better define the significance and mechanism of acetaldehyde-mediated transaminase inhibition, acetaldehyde metabolism was studied in rat liver homogenates and cytosols. When either preparation was incubated at 37° with 1.5 mM acetaldehyde for 4 hr, acetaldehyde levels fell rapidly in the first 30 min and little inhibition of aspartate aminotransferase (GOT) or alanine aminotransferase (GPT) resulted. In contrast, incubation with 50 mM ethanol also resulted in a peak acetaldehyde level of 1.0 to 1.5 mM by 2 hr, but this level was then maintained for the next 2 hr and transaminases were inhibited by 20–35%. Sequential addition of low dose (125–250 μM) pulses of acetaldehyde to rat liver preparations resulted in a progressive decrease in the rate of acetaldehyde disappearance. When the pulsing schedule was adjusted accordingly to maintain acetaldehyde levels between 50 and 250 μm for 8 hr, transaminases were again inhibited by 20–40%. Finally, addition of 1–5 mM pyridoxal and pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, aldehydic B6 vitamers, to cytosols 2–4 hr after pulsing with acetaldehyde was begun, almost completely prevented further transaminase inhibition. In contrast, the non-aldehydic B6 vitamers, pyridoxine, pyridoxamine and pyridoxamine 5'-phosphate, did not affect acetaldehyde-mediated transaminase inhibition. These findings suggest that (1) prolonged exposure to low levels of acetaldehyde impairs acetaldehyde metabolism in rat liver homogenates and cytosols; (2) acetaldehyde toxicity may be more dependent on sustained exposure to acetaldehyde than on the peak level of acetaldehyde attained; and (3) aldehydic B6 vitamers can modify on-going acetaldehyde-mediated transaminase inhibition.
Age estimation obtained from analysis of octopus (Octopus vulgaris Cuvier, 1797) beaks: Improvements and comparisons

Two methods are currently available for age estimation in octopus beaks. They have been applied to the same specimen from a sample of 30 individuals of Octopus vulgaris caught in central-eastern Atlantic waters. These techniques aim at revealing growth increments in the rostrum sagittal sections (RSS) and lateral wall surfaces (LWS) of octopus upper and lower beaks. Both methods were improved to reduce the time of sample preparation and to enhance the appearance of the increments. For each individual, two independent readings were done for upper and lower beak sections, as well as for the lateral wall surfaces. Vertical reflected light (epifluorescence) and image analysis system were shown to be useful in the observation and analysis of the sequence of increments. Precision of the ageing, increment counts obtained by both techniques, and increment widths were discussed. Using upper beak RSS led to more precise age estimates, whereas preparing LWS was quicker and simpler, and revealed a higher number of increments. Therefore, our study recommends counting growth increments in LWS of beaks to age adult common octopus.
Protecting patients when their surgeon or dentist is infected with a blood-borne virus

Abstract The vast majority of surgeons and dentists infected with either hepatitis B or HIV do not transmit these infections to patients. When such transmission from health care provider to patients does occur, the precise mechanism of transmission usually remains enigmatic. Attempts to forestall these rare events have produced substantial debate as well as legislative and regulatory initiatives. The routine immunization of medical and dental students with hepatitis B vaccine will eventually eliminate surgeons and dentists as sources of this infection. Serological screening of surgeons and dentists for HIV infection has been considered impractical. Thus, emphasis has been placed on enhancing measures that reduce the risk of blood contact between health care provider and patient. These include developing safer techniques and procedures. When an infected surgeon or dentist is discovered, a review of their professional circumstances is undertaken. In the US many hepatitis B-infected persons are permitted to continue practice; most HIV-infected persons stop performing invasive procedures. Not completely reassured, some patients enquire of their dentist's or surgeon's HIV antibody status.
SnOx Nanocrystallites Supported by Silica Nanostructures

We demonstrate the results of a single-step in-situ synthesis that produces surface decoration of partially agglomerated amorphous silica nanospheres (diameter ∼45 nm) with SnOx nanocrystals of diameter 3−6 nm. The technique would appear to be useful for the dispersal of extremely small tin oxide nanostructures on a silica nanosurface to produce improved sensors and catalysts. Preliminary results indicating improved kinetic activity on this nanoscale are reported.
Raman and infrared spectra, conformational stability, barriers to internal rotation, ab initio calculations and vibrational assignment of dichloroacetyl fluoride

The Raman spectra (3200-10 cm−1) of dichloroacetyl fluoride (CHCL2CFO) of the gas, liquid (with qualitative depolarization ratios) and solid were recorded. The infrared spectra (3200-30 cm−1) of the gas and solid were also obtained. All of these data indicate a trans/gauche equilibrium in the gas and liquid whereas only the gauche conformation remains in the solid. A complete vibrational assignment is proposed for both conformers based on the Raman depolarization data, infrared band contours, group frequencies and normal coordinate calculations. From the studies of the Raman spectra at various temperatures, the enthalpy difference between the stable conformers was determined to be 315 ± 68 cm−1 (0.90 ± 0.19 kcal mol−1) (1 kcal = 4.184 kJ) and 180 ± 4 cm−1 (0.51 ± 0.01 kcal mol−1) for the gas and liquid, respectively, with the trans conformer being more stable in the gas but the gauche conformer more stable in the liquid. These experimental results are compared to those obtained from ab initio Hartree-Fock gradient calculations with the RHF/3-21G* and RHF/6-31G* basis sets, and to the corresponding quantities obtained for some similar molecules.
Intra-arterial rtPA treatment of stroke assessed by diffusion- and perfusion-weighted MRI.

Background—Diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) and perfusion-weighted MRI (PWI) are new techniques that can be used for the evaluation of acute ischemic stroke. However, their potential role in the management of patients treated with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) has yet to be determined. Case Description—The authors present the case of a 73-year-old man who was treated with intra-arterial rtPA, and they compare findings on DWI and PWI scans with angiography. PWI revealed decreased cerebral perfusion corresponding to an area that was not successfully recanalized, but revealed no abnormality in regions in which blood flow was restored. DWI was unremarkable in the region that was reperfused early (3 hours) but revealed hyperintensity in an area that was reperfused 3.5 hours after symptom onset and in the area that was not reperfused. Conclusions—Findings on PWI correlated well with angiography, and DWI detected injured tissue in the hyperacute stage, whereas conventional MRI findings were negativ...
Evaluation of Fuzzy Partitions

Abstract The aim of this study is the development of tools dedicated to fuzzy partition evaluation in the field of satellite image classification. While a traditional crisp partition only provides qualitative information, a fuzzy partition represents a large amount of quantitative information. However, such a partition is often evaluated after “defuzzification” (i.e., it is reduced to a crisp partition). The analysis of a traditional confusion matrix, describing the similarities between the computed crisp partition and a control partition, can then be performed. This approach is rather drastic and is far from satisfactory because the quantitative information is lost after the defuzzification. Some methods do not require preliminary defuzzification, but they are not adequate to evaluate nonprobabilistic fuzzy partitions (i.e., fuzzy partitions such that the sum of the membership degrees is not necessarily equal to 1). To solve these issues, we consider the evaluation of any fuzzy partition μ as the evaluation of a still fuzzy new partition: the plausibilistic closure of μ. This approach comes from the theory of evidence. It allows definition of a set of original tools (plausibility matrices, credibility matrices, and overlap degrees) dedicated to fuzzy partition evaluation. A concrete application illustrates our theoretical work and a tutorial is provided in appendix.
Liquid backmixing in bubble columns via computer-automated radioactive particle tracking (CARPT)

A single, fully wettable, neutrally buoyant, small radioactive particle and 16 scintillation detectors are utilized to monitor particle motion in gas-liquid bubble columns of different heights and diameters and at different gas superficial velocities. Instantaneous velocities, time-averaged velocities, Reynolds stresses and eddy diffusivities are computed from the particle position versus time data. Anisotropy, indicated by the data, was confirmed by Hurst's rescaled R/S analysis of the fluctuating velocities. For the radial direction, Hurst's exponent is about 0.5 in agreement with a random walk (diffusion)-type mechanism, while in the axial direction, Hurst's exponent of about 0.7 indicates the persistence of long-range effects.
Inclusive breakup reactions

Inclusive breakup reactions of the type $d+A\ensuremath{\rightarrow}p+\mathrm{anything}$ require sums over excited states of the unobserved $n+A$ system. We show that the summed distorted-wave Born approximation cross section can be expressed in closed form as an elastic distorted-waves expectation of an optical model propagator for the unobserved system. The contribution of fluctuations to the energy-averaged cross section is automatically contained in the derived identity. Previous results can be recovered from this identity if corresponding surface approximations are introduced. A new approximation simplifies the identity by omitting the imaginary part of the optical potential. This approximation selects the energy-shell part of the propagator and reduces the inclusive cross section to the same form obtained for the ground state reaction $A(d,pn)A$, with a modified (real) optical potential for the unobserved neutron.NUCLEAR REACTIONS Scattering theory, closed form sum rule for inclusive breakup, DWBA, approximations extracted.
Multiplicity, stability, and oscillatory dynamics of the tubular reactor

Abstract Numerical bifurcation techniques were developed for studying the multiplicity, stability, and oscillatory dynamics of the nonadiabatic tubular reactor with a single A → B reaction. The techniques illustrate the existence of one, three, five, or seven steady states and bifurcating periodic solutions. We present numerical procedures for computing the Hopf bifurcation formulas which can determine the stability and location of the oscillation without integrating the parabolic partial differential equations. The combination of our Hopf techniques with steady state bifurcation methods enables us to determine all possible steady and stable oscillatory solutions exhibited by distributed parameter models such as the tubular reactor.
A Framework for Integration of Rule-Oriented Data Management Policies with Network Policies

Traditionally data management software running on top of the Internet has very limited primitives to interact with the networking layer. This limitation has become a major road-block to develop next generation data management applications requiring high-bandwidth and dynamic network configuration. In this work, we present a policy-driven software framework that acts as an adaptation layer between the data management software and SDN networks. This framework allows a tight coupling between the data grid and the network and therefore makes complex workflow-like cross-layer computation possible. We have prototyped this adaptation layer integrated with iRODS, a popular policy-driven data grid software and Floodlight, a popular OpenFlow controller, and demonstrate how network policies become part of the overall data grid policies to improve the application performance.
Initial lessons from AR Façade, an interactive augmented reality drama

In this paper, we describe an augmented reality version of the acclaimed desktop-based interactive drama, Facade [18]. Few entertainment experiences combine interactive virtual characters, non-linear narrative, and unconstrained embodied interaction. In AR Facade players move through a physical apartment and use gestures and speech to interact with two autonomous characters, Trip and Grace. Our experience converting a desktop based game to augmented reality sheds light on the design challenges of developing mixed physical/virtual AI-based drama. We share our initial observations of players from a live demonstration and talk about our work moving forward.
Dealing with the drug problem.

The disease and disability toll of drug use and certain features of current national drug use/abuse policy produce serious negative outcomes for the health and welfare of the United States and its people. Therefore, national drug policy should be the subject of serious review. Neither the central focus of present policy, the "Drug War," nor what is usually presented as the only alternative to this policy, "legalization," effectively deal with the U.S. drug use/abuse problem. In this commentary, we first examine the nature of the total drug problem. Then, an analysis of its causes is presented, followed by a discussion of present policy and how it does or does not address both the problem and its causes. Finally, a proposed new approach to the drug problem, based on well-known public health principles, is offered.
Cyclopalladation of enantiopure oxazolines having the prochiral CMe2 moiety at position 2 of the heterocycle

Abstract (R)-4-Ethyl-2-(1,1-dimethylpropyl)-2-oxazoline (1) and (S)-4-tert-butyl-2-(1,1-dimethylbutyl)-2-oxazoline (2) were synthesized in two steps from the corresponding enantiopure amino alcohols and acid chlorides in a total yield of 95% and 72%, respectively. (S)-2-(1-Adamantyl-1-methylethyl)-4-isobutyl-2-oxazoline (3) was obtained from adamantyl bromide and l -leucinol in five steps in a total yield of 82%. Reactions of oxazolines 1–3 with Pd(OAc)2 in AcOH or CH2Cl2 followed by treatment with LiCl afforded the corresponding μ-Cl dimeric cyclopalladated complexes 15, 17, and 20 in good yield. Compounds 15, 17, and 20 reacted with PPh3 to furnish the corresponding mononuclear complexes 16, 19, and 21. The 31P NMR spectra of trans(N,P) adducts 16, 19, and 21 contained signals of two diastereomers in a ratio of ca. 1.3:1.
Retarded potentials and the radiative arrow of time

Maxwell's equations admit both retarded and advanced solutions, but only the retarded solutions seem to characterize the radiative phenomena that actually occur in nature. The reason for this, however, is not usually explained in electrodynamics textbooks. We justify the use of the retarded solutions by considering a simple toy model, which allows us to avoid the technical complexities of electrodynamics and focus on the physical concepts. In addition, we explain how the use of the retarded solutions is related to a number of fundamental issues in physics, such as time-reversal invariance and the radiative arrow of time.
Coreference for NLP applications

This paper presents several techniques for performing automatic coreference annotation and performance results for each of them. To demonstrate that they can be applied to real-world data, we have built a simple question-answering system which uses the techniques. A system using coreference is compared to a baseline system with the result that the addition of the coreference annotation improves performance.
Understanding Li-ion battery processes at the atomic- to nano-scale

Reducing battery materials to nano-scale dimensions may improve battery performance while maintaining the use of low-cost materials. However, we need better characterization tools with atomic to nano-scale resolution in order to understand degradation mechanisms and the structural and mechanical changes that occur in these new materials during battery cycling. To meet this need, we have developed a micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS)-based platform for performing electrochemical measurements using volatile electrolytes inside a transmission electron microscope (TEM). This platform uses flip-chip assembly with special alignment features and multiple buried electrode configurations. In addition to this platform, we have developed an unsealed platform that permits in situ TEM electrochemistry using ionic liquid electrolytes. As a test of these platform concepts, we have assembled MnO2 nanowires on to the platform using dielectrophoresis and have examined their electrical and structural changes as a function of lithiation. These results reveal a large irreversible drop in electronic conductance and the creation of a high degree of lattice disorder following lithiation of the nanowires. From these initial results, we conclude that the future full development of in situ TEM characterization tools will enable important mechanistic understanding of Li-ion battery materials.
Temperature-induced structural stabilization of the encapsidated RNA of southern bean mosaic virus and its biologic significance.

Virions of southern bean mosaic virus (SBMV) show two distinct sensitivity patterns upon heating. Infectivity loss and capsid denaturation occur concurrently if virions are exposed at 50-55 degrees in 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer, pH 7.5, or 0.1 M glycine-phosphate buffer, pH 9.0. Contrastingly, virions are inactivated without any detectable capsid damage at 65-70 degrees in 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer, pH 6.0, 0.1 M Tris-HCI buffer, pH 7.5, or 0.1 M glycine-NaOH buffer, pH 9.0. Heat treatment causes no genomic degradation in these two situations; the divergent sensitivity of virions is due, apparently, to a differential thermal tolerance of the capsid protein to the buffer components and/or pH. SBMV-RNA isolated from virions inactivated at 65 degrees in 0.1 M Tris-HCl buffer, pH 7.5, possesses low infectivity (1-2%). Observations based upon sucrose gradient sedimentation, temperature: absorbance relationship, and sensitivity to ribonuclease T(1) suggest that such RNA is structurally more compact and stable relative to that of the RNA from the nonheated virions. Neither the capsid protein nor the genome protein plays a direct role in the temperature-induced structural stabilization of SBMV-RNA in situ. If treated with 8 M urea, 50% formamide or exposed at 55 degrees , the infectivity of RNA from the heat-inactivated SBMV is restored and is comparable to that of the RNA isolated from the nonheated virions. The observed mode of SBMV thermal inactivation, i.e., stabilization of RNA structure in situ, is unique among the viruses. Furthermore, these results suggest that the ability to initiate infection depends upon the secondary structure of the SBMV genome.
The photodynamic modification of DNA by hematoporphyrin.

Abstract Illumination (white light: 300–750 nm) of DNA in the presence of hematoporphyrin ( ⩾ 5 · 10 −4 M ) results in selective degradation of the guanine moiety. DNA so illuminated exhibits physical chemical properties (lowered sedimentation coefficients, lower temperatures of helix-coil transitions, increased buoyant density values) consistent with single-chain scissions (and the generation of single-stranded regions) which presumably are secondary to the photodegradation of the guanine residue. Illumination of DNA in the presence of low levels of hematoporphyrin ( ⩽2.5 · 10 −4 M ) results in a biopolymer exhibiting all of the physical properties described above with the exception of a lowered sedimentation coefficient; on the contrary such DNA is aggregated. Of the four usual deoxynucleosides irradiated in the presence of hematoporphyrin, only deoxyguanosine is destroyed.
Targets of Protective Tumor Immunity

The identification of antigens associated with tumor destruction is a major goal of cancer immunology. Several genetic and biochemical techniques have revealed a broad range of gene products that elicit immune recognition in cancer patients, but the biologic importance of these responses in most cases is poorly understood. While some targets are linked to tumor regressions in the context of adoptive cellular therapies or cancer vaccinations, the possible roles of immunity to most antigens in disease pathogenesis and clinical outcomes remain to be elucidated. One strategy for characterizing antigens that elicit clinically significant immune recognition involves the study of patients who achieve durable clinical benefits from immune treatments. Through this approach, we uncovered the immunogenicity of major histocompatibility chain-related protein A (MICA), which is a ligand for NKG2D, and ERp5, a protein disulfide isomerase involved in MICA shedding. Our findings suggest that components of the NKG2D pathway may be attractive targets for therapeutic monoclonal antibodies.
Hydrostatics of H↓ in an inhomogeneous magnetic field

Abstract A model that describes the total and superfluid density profiles of a spin-polarized hydrogen sample in an inhomogeneous magnetic field is proposed. This model can be used to study the effects of modifying the temperature, sample size, and field intensity on the structure of the system.
Evaluation of the Summertime Low-Level Winds Simulated by MM5 in the Central Valley of California

Abstract A season-long set of 5-day simulations between 1200 UTC 1 June and 1200 UTC 30 September 2000 are evaluated using the observations taken during the Central California Ozone Study (CCOS) 2000 experiment. The simulations are carried out using the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–NCAR Mesoscale Model (MM5), which is widely used for air-quality simulations and control planning. The evaluation results strongly indicate that the model-simulated low-level winds in California’s Central Valley are biased in speed and direction: the simulated winds tend to have a stronger northwesterly component than observed. This bias is related to the difference in the observed and simulated large-scale, upper-level flows. The model simulations also show a bias in the height of the daytime atmospheric boundary layer (ABL), particularly in the northern and southern Central Valley. There is evidence to suggest that this bias in the daytime ABL height is not only associated with the large-scale, upper-level b...
La relation comme action collaborative

Traditionnellement, nous avons concu la relation comme etant formee a partir de deux ou plusieurs individus. Toutefois, cette construction de la relation donne une priorite ontologique a l’individu, alors que les relations deviennent une derivee secondaire. En termes des implications ideologiques, nous sommes encourages a donner priorite aux individus. Le resultat fait en sorte que de nombreuses theories en sciences sociales offrent un raisonnement a l’idee d’un individualisme culturel sans meme s’en rendre compte. Dans ce travail, je tente d’offrir une conception alternative de la relation ou on retrouve un processus relationnel a priori a l’individu. Sous cette optique, la conception meme de l’individu en est une d’action collaborative (co-action). Les implications plus larges mettent l’accent sur la confluence de la vie sociale.
Purification and Characterization of TrzF: Biuret Hydrolysis by Allophanate Hydrolase Supports Growth

TrzF, the allophanate hydrolase from Enterobacter cloacae strain 99, was cloned, overexpressed in the presence of a chaperone protein, and purified to homogeneity. Native TrzF had a subunit molecular weight of 65,401 and a subunit stoichiometry of α2 and did not contain significant levels of metals. TrzF showed time-dependent inhibition by phenyl phosphorodiamidate and is a member of the amidase signature protein family. TrzF was highly active in the hydrolysis of allophanate but was not active with urea, despite having been previously considered a urea amidolyase. TrzF showed lower activity with malonamate, malonamide, and biuret. The allophanate hydrolase from Pseudomonas sp. strain ADP, AtzF, was also shown to hydrolyze biuret slowly. Since biuret and allophanate are consecutive metabolites in cyanuric acid metabolism, the low level of biuret hydrolase activity can have physiological significance. A recombinant Escherichia coli strain containing atzD, encoding cyanuric acid hydrolase that produces biuret, and atzF grew slowly on cyanuric acid as a source of nitrogen. The amount of growth produced was consistent with the liberation of 3 mol of ammonia from cyanuric acid. In vitro, TrzF was shown to hydrolyze biuret to liberate 3 mol of ammonia. The biuret hydrolyzing activity of TrzF might also be physiologically relevant in native strains. E. cloacae strain 99 grows on cyanuric acid with a significant accumulation of biuret.
Digits of Pi

Previous authors have shown geometrically that the first \({N}\) digits of \({\pi}\) can be generated by counting the energy conserving, alternate ball-ball and ball-wall collisions in which the mass ratio of the balls is \({100^{N+1}}\). Here, after explicitly demonstrating the equality of separation and approach speeds in a ball-ball collision, the sequence of ball speeds is determined from a pair of linear difference equations. The asserted result is then readily deduced without consideration of the ball displacements and time intervals between collisions.
Multi-stage stochastic linear programs for portfolio optimization

The paper demonstrates how multi-period portfolio optimization problems can be efficiently solved as multi-stage stochastic linear programs. A scheme based on a blending of classical Benders decomposition techniques and a special technique, called importance sampling, is used to solve this general class of multi-stochastic linear programs. We discuss the case where stochastic parameters are dependent within a period as well as between periods. Initial computational results are presented.
The Bear's Lair: Indexed Credit Default Swaps and the Subprime Mortgage Crisis

ABX.HE indexed credit default swaps on baskets of mortgage-backed securities are now the main benchmark used by financial institutions to mark their subprime mortgage portfolios to market. However, we find that current prices for the ABX.HE indices are inconsistent with any finite assumption for mortgage default rates, and that ABX.HE price changes are uncorrelated with changes in the credit performance of the underlying loans. These results cast serious doubt on the suitability of the ABX.HE indices as valuation benchmarks. We also find that ABX.HE price changes are significantly related to short-sale activity in the option and equity markets of the publicly traded builders, the commercial banks, the investment banks and the government sponsored enterprises (GSEs). This suggests that capital constraints, limiting the supply of ABS insurance, may be playing a role here similar to that identified by Froot (2001) in the market for catastrophe insurance.
Cochlin Produced by Follicular Dendritic Cells Promotes Antibacterial Innate Immunity

Cochlin, an extracellular matrix protein, shares homologies with the Factor C, a serine protease found in horseshoe crabs, which is critical for antibacterial responses. Mutations in the COCH gene are responsible for human DFNA9 syndrome, a disorder characterized by neurodegeneration of the inner ear that leads to hearing loss and vestibular impairments. The physiological function of cochlin, however, is unknown. Here, we report that cochlin is specifically expressed by follicular dendritic cells and selectively localized in the fine extracellular network of conduits in the spleen and lymph nodes. During inflammation, cochlin was cleaved by aggrecanases and secreted into blood circulation. In models of lung infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, Coch(-/-) mice show reduced survival linked to defects in local cytokine production, recruitment of immune effector cells, and bacterial clearance. By producing cochlin, FDCs thus contribute to the innate immune response in defense against bacteria.
Bridging the disability gap with distance learning

Distance learning is one of the hottest issues in higher education. Because it depends heavily on digitized information, and because digitized information is displayed independently, distance learning courses are potentially an ideal mechanism for mainstream students with disabilities in education. However, in the rush to move ahead, systems are frequently designed without considering the special interface problems to information technology for students with disabilities. Distance learning can either be an open door to learning and mainstreaming, or it can create new need needless barriers to inclusion. © 1998 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
High-Tc superconductivity in perovskite-type oxides

The concept leading to the discovery of a class of new superconductors will be described. Superconductive and structural properties of both, the La2CuO4-based (40 K) and the RE-Ba-Cu-O-based (90 K) superconductors are discussed. Experiments showing the influence of oxygen deficiency and microstructure on these properties will also be presented.
Sen1p Performs Two Genetically Separable Functions in Transcription and Processing of U5 Small Nuclear RNA in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The Saccharomyces cerevisiae SEN1 gene codes for a nuclear-localized superfamily I helicase. SEN1 is an ortholog of human SETX (senataxin), which has been implicated in the neurological disorders ataxia-ocular apraxia type 2 and juvenile amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Pleiotropic phenotypes conferred by sen1 mutations suggest that Sen1p affects multiple steps in gene expression. Sen1p is embedded in a protein–protein interaction network involving direct binding to multiple partners. To test whether the interactions occur independently or in a dependent sequence, we examined interactions with the RNA polymerase II subunit Rpb1p, which is required for transcription, and Rnt1p, which is required for 3′-end maturation of many noncoding RNAs. Mutations were identified that impair one of the two interactions without impairing the other interaction. The effects of the mutants on the synthesis of U5 small nuclear RNA were analyzed. Two defects were observed, one in transcription termination and one in 3′-end maturation. Impairment of the Sen1p–Rpb1p interaction resulted in a termination defect. Impairment of the Sen1p–Rnt1p interaction resulted in a processing defect. The results suggest that the Sen1p–Rpb1p and Sen1p–Rnt1p interactions occur independently of each other and serve genetically separable purposes in targeting Sen1p to function in two temporally overlapping steps in gene expression.
Gigabit routing on a software-exposed tiled-microprocessor

This paper investigates the suitability of emerging tiled-architectures, equipped with low-latency on-chip networks, for high-performance network routing. In this paper, we present the design, implementation and evaluation of a continuum of software-based routers on the MIT RAW microprocessor. The routers presented in this paper explore 1) several design choices for mapping the routing functions to the RAW tiles, 2) the role and behavior of RAW on-chip interconnects for transporting and switching packets, and 3) the placement of packet buffers and their interaction with the RAW on-chip networks. Our experiments evaluate the performance benefit of streaming on-chip networks for transporting packet payloads, effect of buffering on the linecards, and the cost of scaling our design. Our software-based routers on RAW can achieve a throughput of 15Gb/sec -- an order of magnitude improvement over previous software routers on traditional general-purpose architectures and at least four times faster than Intel's IXP1200 Network Processor.
Conceptualization and Measurement of Interpersonal Communication Motives

The goal of this study was to develop and validate an instrument that could be used to ascertain motives individuals have for interpersonal communication. A 28-item scale is presented along with initial information about the scale’s construct validity. Results indicated there were six prominent motives: pleasure, affection, inclusion, escape, relaxation, and control. Low communicative apprehensives used interpersonal communication for pleasure, affection, and control while high apprehensiues were more aligned with the inclusion motive. The motives of pleasure, affection; and relaxation were more closely related to communication satisfaction. In fact, communication satisfaction was best predicted by low communication apprehension, gender, and the pleasure, affection, relaxation, and escape communication motives.