cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Do Renewables Drive Coal-Fired Generation Out of Electricity Markets?

Coal-fired generation is being retired in many regions. Some argue that these retirements are exacerbated by renewable–generation policy supports. Based on these claims, there are suggestions that renewable supports be phased-out or that coal-fired generators receive their own supports. Given the inherent policy implications, we examine the impacts of renewable–energy supports and other market changes (e.g., low natural–gas prices and carbon policy) on generator profitability. Renewable–energy policy supports can affect negatively the economics of coal-fired generators. However, empirical analyses in the literature find that the main contributor to declining coal-fired generation is low natural-gas prices. To investigate these findings further, we analyze a case study that is based on Japan’s wholesale electricity market. Through this case study, we examine the relative impacts of renewable–energy and other policy and market changes on the economics of coal-fired generation. Renewable–energy policy can impact the financial viability of coal-fired generators. However, natural-gas-price decreases have a much greater impact on the profitability of coal-fired generators than renewables do at current penetration levels.
Adaptable Traces for Program Explanations

Program traces are a sound basis for explaining the dynamic behavior of programs. Alas, program traces can grow big very quickly, even for small programs, which diminishes their value as explanations.
The Study of Humans-Artificial Agents Relationships in Retailing Contexts: The Role of Trust

The retail industry is at the inflection point where Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robots, are transforming not only business practices, but also the lives of consumers. This study focuses on how consumers develop relationships with AI technology in retailing contexts, by positing the role of trust in building human-AI relationships. Specifically, trust is proposed to influence humans’ perceptual (i.e., perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment, and perceived risk) and behavioral responses (i.e., intent to continue use). Supporting the Theory of Social Response (TSR) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this study demonstrates that trust in digital assistants’ competence, benevolence, and integrity increased consumers’ intent to continue use of AAs through perceived usefulness and perceived enjoyment.
Hormone Production by Rat Blastocysts and Midpregnancy Trophoblasts in Vitro

The production of hormones by the trophoblast as well as its susceptibility to regulation by them are important factors in the elucidation of the mechanisms by which the synchrony of the fetal and maternal organisms is accomplished during pregnancy. In the past, clues to the presence in trophoblast tissue of enzyme systems for steroidogenesis have been found by histochemical means (Deane et al., 1962; Ferguson and Christie, 1967; Botte et al., 1968). In spite of the intrinsic limitations of data obtained from in vitro systems, the separation of maternal from fetal contributions is essential if hormone production by the trophoblast is to be detected.
Agency Disclosure in the Real Estate Transaction and the Impact of Related State Policies

Although agency disclosure is required by every state, recent national surveys of home buyers and sellers indicate that disclosure varies significantly across the United States. This study seeks to...
Brain Drain or Brain Exchange

The rich world is worrying about skills shortages, especially at the upper levels of their economies. The causes are many—such as a “demographic cliff” in Japan and in some European countries, significantly reducing the numbers of university-age young people, especially too few students enrolling in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, a leveling off of access, and low-degree completion rates.
The iPad Pilot Project: A Faculty Driven Effort to Use Mobile Technology in the Reinvention of the Liberal Arts

Mobile technology is pervasive in society and in particular among young people. The use of such technology in the classroom can be controversial and case studies and data on student perceptions of the technology are rare. This study presents the results of an iPad Pilot Project sponsored by a college at mid-sized university in a rural area in the United States. The study intersects the use of the iPad in the classroom with the reinvention of liberal arts education. Using case studies and student perceptions from survey data, the study concludes that the use of the iPads in the classroom can enhance critical thinking, collaboration, and participation and that the iPads were not a distraction in the classroom. The study details the different uses of the iPad in the classroom and how the technological use addressed several different problems raised by the use of technology.
Differentiation-induced gene expression in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes: a second differentially expressed gene encoding stearoyl-CoA desaturase

Abstract Previously we isolated and characterized a differentially expressed gene from mouse 3T3-L1 preadipocytes that encodes stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD1; Ntambi, J. M., Buhrow, S. A., Kaestner, K. H., Christy, R. J., Sibley, E., Kelly, T. J., Jr., and Lane, M. D. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 17291-17300). Genomic Southern blot analysis indicated the existence of another closely related gene. Here we report the isolation and characterization of this gene and the corresponding cDNA which encode a second stearoyl-CoA desaturase, SCD2, 3T3-L1 adipocytes. SCD2 cDNA is 5 kilobase pairs in length and encodes a protein of 358 amino acids with greater than 87% amino acid sequence identity to SCD1. RNase protection analysis reveals a 10-fold increase in the expression of SCD2 mRNA during 3T3-L1 preadipocyte differentiation. SCD2 mRNA is expressed constitutively at a high level in brain, is not expressed in liver, and its expression in kidney, adipose, and lung tissue is increased greatly by shifting mice from a diet containing unsaturated fatty acids to a diet devoid of fat. The tissue distribution and the dietary alteration of SCD1 mRNA expression differs markedly from that of SCD2 mRNA being absent from brain, constitutive in adipose tissue, and subject to negative control in liver by feeding a diet containing unsaturated fatty acids. The SCD2 gene spans approximately 15 kilobase pairs and consists of six exons and five introns, with intron/exon junctions similar to those of SCD1. As determined by primer extension analysis the start site of transcription maps 300 nucleotides upstream of the initiator methionine codon. Unlike the SCD1 gene, SCD2 lacks a typical "TATA" box in the 5'-flanking region, but has two "CCAAT" boxes at positions -90 and -135 relative to the transcription initiation site. The SCD2 promoter contains a 140-base pair sequence (located between nucleotides -54 and -201) which possesses 77% sequence identity to a region (located between nucleotides -472 and -325) in the SCD1 promoter. There is a GC-rich sequence in the SCD2 promoter (at nucleotide -175) similar to the binding site for the nuclear transcription factor Sp1 as well as an element with homology to the core consensus sequence for the glucocorticoid regulatory element position -500 and a potential CCAAT box/enhance binding protein sequence at position -540. The SCD gene family provides a new model system for the study of differentiation-induced as well as tissue-specific metabolite controlled gene expression.
Methods of Monte Carlo electron transport in particle-in-cell codes

An algorithm has been implemented in CCUBE and ISIS to treat electron transport in materials using a Monte Carlo method in addition to the electron dynamics determined by the self-consistent electromagnetic, relativistic, particle-in-cell simulation codes that have been used extensively to model generation of electron beams and intense microwave production. Incorporation of a Monte Carlo method to model the transport of electrons in materials (conductors and dielectrics) in a particle-in-cell code represents a giant step toward realistic simulation of the physics of charged-particle beams. The basic Monte Carlo method used in the implementation includes both scattering of electrons by background atoms and energy degradation. Two methods were used to model the elastic scatterings. One is the theory due to Goudsmit and Saunderson and the other is given by Moliere, Hanson, and Bethe. In applying the former method, small angle scatterings were represented by Gaussian distributions with appropriate widths for the individual electrons and large angle scatterings were treated by the screened Coulomb distribution. In using the latter method, all scatterings were treated as small angle events; and, therefore, only the Gaussian term of the distribution was included. For energy degradation, it is assumed that the electrons are subjected to a slowing down force throughout their transport and that the force acts in a direction opposite to the electron's momentum. The energy loss is computed by using Bethe's formula, which treats the energy loss of incoming electrons in matter due to excitation and ionization of bound electrons in the stopping substance. Tests of the codes yielded electron transmission probability and its energy range relation, which agreed very well with empirical results. Furthermore, our results showed that space-charge effects could significantly affect the physics of electron transport. Further inclusion of photonic transport can lead to a new generation of numerical simulation tools.
Ocular Bobbing in Alpha Coma

ABSTRACT.A 54 year-old woman suddenly became unresponsive and developed ocular bobbing. A computed tomographic (CT) scan of the head revealed pontine hemorrhage. An EEG documented the simultaneous appearance of ocular bobbing and alphacoma pattern. The coexistence of such spontaneous eye movements with alpha pattern resembled a normal waking pattern.
Motion modelling of video sequences: applications to compression

Video compression standards are all based on a hybrid coding approach, where the video frames are represented partially as motion information and partially as (residual) intensity information. In this paper we examine the advantages and disadvantages of motion and intensity information as efficient representations of video sequences. We present a simple framework for constructing a full resolution motion field, and an efficient way to code the motion field. We describe a new video coding algorithm, that builds upon the traditional block-based motion compensation scheme, and codes the residual information as motion rather than intensity. Simulation results from the new algorithm show that it compares quite favorably with the traditional approach of coding the intensity residual after block motion compensation.
Growth in Young Filipino Children Predicts Schooling Trajectories through High School

Several studies link childhood malnutrition to adverse schooling outcomes, including delayed or diminished enrollment and increased grade repetition. However, the effects of nutrition on schooling trajectories are obscured by the cross-sectional nature of most previous research and the complex array of other phenomena that affect schooling outcomes. We explored the association between height-for-age Z-score (HAZ) at 2 y and schooling trajectory among 2198 children from the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Survey. Parity, parental education, maternal height, household assets, environmental cleanliness, presence of electricity, and household income were identified as potential confounders. Crude and adjusted logistic and multinomial regressions of schooling outcomes (entrance age, grade repetition, and grades completed) were conducted. Entrance age and IQ were evaluated as potential mediators between HAZ and schooling outcomes. After adjustment for confounders, greater height for age protected against late enrollment among both boys and girls and predicted early enrollment among boys. Taller children were less likely to repeat grades [girls OR = 0.78 (0.67, 0.89); boys OR = 0.86 (0.74, 0.99)] and less likely to drop out during grade school rather than graduate from high school [girls OR = 0.74 (0.56, 0.98; boys OR = 0.66 (0.51, 0.84)]. Models predicting the changes in school outcomes associated with a change in overall height from -2 to 0 SD of HAZ were simulated. Absolute probability of late enrollment dropped substantially, from 6% for both boys and girls to 2% for boys and 1% for girls. Absolute grade repetition dropped approximately 7% for boys and 9% for girls. Improving early childhood nutrition may have long-lasting educational benefits, increasing the likelihood of high school completion in developing countries.
Role of UV illumination for enabling cold temperature operation of a LiNbO3 Q-switched Nd:YAG laser

We have explored using UV illumination as a method to mitigate pyroelectric effects, and their associative loss in hold-off for lithium niobate Q-switch materials under cold temperature operation. It has been observed that by illumination of the LiNbO 3 Q-switch material from the side, the above bandgap light can provide for an increase in conductivity via an increase in photocarriers. In the presence of strong pyroelectric fields associated with a change in temperature, these carriers can be effectively swept in the direction to eliminate the field. We quantified the improvement in conduction by measuring the decay time for the pyroelectric induced loss in extinction. At negative 20°C, the decay rate for the pyroelectric field in the absence of UV illumination was measured to be 16.7 hours. It was found that by illuminating the LiNbO 3 from the side with two UV LEDs operating at 500mA, the decay constant for a built-up pyroelectric charge could be reduced to 1minute. With this technique applied to a LiNbO 3 Q-switched laser, the laser was shown to perform over rapid cooling without a degradation in performance.
The phosphocholine and the polycation-binding sites on rabbit C-reactive protein are structurally and functionally distinct

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein in humans and rabbits that has the ability to bind a number of biologically important ligands including phosphocholine (PCh), histones, and polycations. In addition to this recognition function, ligand-complexed or aggregated CRP is capable of activating the classical complement pathway. We have generated two strains of transgenic mice in order to study CRP-binding to PCh and consequent complement activation. Based on crystallographic and mutagenesis studies in human CRP (huCRP), we mutated Phe66 and Glu81 in the rabbit CRP (rbCRP) gene and generated a strain of transgenic mice (F66Y/E81K), which expressed this variant form of rbCRP. We also mutated Tyr175 in rbCRP to generate transgenic mice which expressed a variant form of rbCRP (Y175A). In vitro, F66Y/E81K rbCRP purified from serum had dramatically reduced binding to PCh. Additionally F66Y/E81K rbCRP not only maintained its ability to bind polycations and histones, but also bound more avidly to specific histones and lysine polymers than wild type (wt) rbCRP. Y175A rbCRP was not able to activate complement when bound to pneumococcal C-polysaccharide (PnC), but was, along with F66Y/E81K and wild type rbCRP, able to activate complement when bound to a small lysine polymer or when directly adsorbed to a solid phase. This complement activation presumably occurs through the classical complement pathway as the three rbCRPs, adsorbed to a solid phase, bound C1q. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the PCh-binding and the polycation-binding sites on rbCRP are distinct but possibly overlapping. The conformational changes in the C1q-binding site of CRP to activate complement depend on the nature of the ligand and on the location of the ligand-binding site.
A hypothetical model for the active site of human cytochrome P4502E1

1. A model for the active site structure of human cytochrome P4502E1 based on the coordinates of cytochrome P450BM- 3 crystal structure and the sequence analysis information on P4502E1 was proposed. 2. The sequence alignment of mammalian P4502 family and P450BM- 3 indicated a 48% similarity and 25% identity. Secondary structural prediction displayed a similar pattern of distribution in the main frame of secondary elements, α-helices and β-sheets. The locations of secondary elements also mapped well. In addition, the amino acids responsible for the conserved secondary structural regions showed the most similarity between the two proteins. In contrast, the amino acids responsible for the loop region had the least similarity in our alignment. 3. The predicted P4502E1 active site model shows that the active site is small and contains mainly hydrophobic residues. The substrate binding pocket is located on top of pyrrole rings A and D of the haem; in contrast, the access to B and C rings is partially or complet...
Problems and progress in the development of standards for quantifying friction at the walkway interface

Abstract Walkway-safety tribometers (WSTs) are instruments that measure the friction between a test foot and a walkway surface. Different WSTs, because they measure friction in different ways, often give different results in a given situation. This creates ‘marketplace confusion’, which has caused the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Committee on Standards (COS) to mandate that ASTM Committee F-13 on Safety and Traction for Footwear implement ‘generic’ standards, which do not reference proprietary equipment. A committee appointed by the ASTM Board of Directors, chaired by the incoming ASTM Chairman of the Board, was formed to assist Committee F-13 in this task. This paper presents the evolution of WST standards and discusses progress in the development of a set of ‘generic’ WST standards.
Nutrient Uptake by Warm-Season Perennial Grasses in a Swine Effluent Spray Field

Haying removes soil nutrients in manured fields. Grass hays were compared for nutrient removal in an effluent spray field. Eastern gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloides L.), indiangrass [Sorghastrum nutans (L.) Nash], johnsongrass [Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers.], switchgrass (Panicum vilgatum L.), and common and 'Coastal' bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] were grown on a Brooksville silty day (fine, montmorillonitic, thermic Aquic Chromuderts) in Mississippi. The field produced johnsongrass hay and received swine (Sus scrofa domesticus) effluent (estimated 371, 61, and 629 kg ha -1 yr -1 of N, P, and K, respectively) for 8 yr before the study. In the 3-yr study, common bermudagrass produced 4.6 to 15.0 Mg dry matter (DM) ha -1 yr -1 and was not different from Coastal bermudagrass (5.2 to 13.7 Mg ha -1 yr -1 ). Highest annual DM yields of johnsongrass, eastern gamagrass, switwgrass, and indiangrass were 9.7, 9.5, 9.1, and 5.5 Mg ha -1 yr -1 , respectively. Highest annual uptakes of N by common and Coastal bermudagrass, johnsongrass, eastern gamagrass, switchgrass, and indiangrass were 314, 280, 188, 181, 167, and 106 kg ha -1 , respectively. Respective highest annual uptakes of P were 44, 35, 23, 21, 19, and 14 kg ha -1 . Uptakes of Ca, K, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn were as high or higher in common bermudagrass as in the other grasses. Dry matter yield of common bermudagrass was correlated (r = 0.99, P = 0.0001) with uptakes of N, P, and K. Replacing johnsongrass with bermudagrass would increase annual DM yield in the field 155 to 249% and P uptake 194 to 259%.
New antiarrhythmic treatment of atrial fibrillation.

Antiarrhythmic pharmaceutical development for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) is moving in several directions. The efficacy of existing drugs, such as carvedilol, for rate control and, possibly, suppression of AF, is more appreciated. Efforts are being made to modify existing agents, such as amiodarone, in an attempt to ameliorate safety and adverse effect concerns. This has resulted in promising data from the deiodinated amiodarone analog, dronedarone, and further work with celivarone and ATI-2042. In an attempt to minimize ventricular proarrhythmia, atrial selective drugs, such as intravenous vernakalant, have demonstrated efficacy in terminating AF in addition to promising data in suppression recurrences when used orally. Several other atrial selective drugs are being developed by multiple manufacturers. Other novel therapeutic mechanisms, such as drugs that enhance GAP junction conduction, are being developed to achieve more effective drug therapy than is offered by existing compounds. Final...
Analysis of Core-Assisted Routing in Opportunistic Networks

Opportunistic networks (ONs) are a newly emerging type of delay tolerant network ( DTN) systems that opportunistically exploit unplanned contacts among nodes to share information. As with all DTN environments ONs experience frequent and large delays, and an end-to-end path from the source to destination may only exist for a brief and unpredictable period of time. Such network conditions present unique challenges to message routing. In this paper, we present the design and performance analysis of a novel core-based routing protocol for ON routing. Under the assumption that messages will have a delivery time constraint, we then provide a set of analytical results for rapid modeling and performance evaluation for the basic performance metrics of message delay, message delivery ratio, and buffer occupancy. We have implemented our protocol in ns-2, and our simulation results show that our protocol is quite effective and our analysis is accurate.
An aggregate study of single-case research involving aided AAC: Participant characteristics of individuals with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) who cannot speak at all or not intelligibly are frequently taught to use aided augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The majority of the research on the use of AAC with individuals with ASD has been single-case research studies. This investigation involved a meta-analysis of the single-case research on the use of aided AAC with individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), investigating the differential impacts of AAC by participant characteristics. An effect size measure, the Improvement Rate Difference (IRD) was used to analyze 24 single-case studies. Two research questions were investigated concerning (a) the impact of AAC interventions on individuals diagnosed with subcategories of ASD and co-morbid conditions, and (b) the effects of AAC interventions on individuals in different age groups. Results indicated that participants with ASD and no additional diagnoses had better outcomes than others and that participants with ASD and developmental disabilities outperformed participants with ASD and multiple disabilities. Further, preschool-aged participants had better outcomes than elementary-aged and secondary-aged participants. Participants in all diagnostic categories and age ranges had moderate or better effects.
Origin of high field strength element enrichment in volcanic arcs: Geochemical evidence from the Sulu Arc, southern Philippines

Abstract Lavas from the Sulu Arc, southern Philippines, exhibit an enrichment in high field strength elements (HFSE) that represents a departure from the typical volcanic arc geochemical signature. It has been postulated that this relative enrichment arises from metasomatism of mantle wedge peridotites by melts derived from the subducting oceanic lithosphere, through formation of amphibole which subsequently breaks down and enriches the mantle source of parental arc magmas in HFSE. Divergent chemical and isotopic characteristics between Sulu Arc HFSE-enriched lavas and the Sulu Sea crust being subducted—the presumed source of slab-derived melts—render it unlikely, however, that HFSE enrichment arises from the influence of such melts. New geochemical data suggest that the varying degrees of HFSE enrichment in Sulu Arc lavas are instead the result of variable amounts of mixing between enriched and depleted mantle end-components—the sources of South China Sea intraplate lavas and Sulu seafloor basalts, respectively—within a compositionally heterogeneous mantle wedge.
Spermiogenesis in the bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus): A study of cytoplasmic events including cell volume changes and cytoplasmic elimination

The process involved in the reduction of both nuclear and cytoplasmic volume was investigated in the bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), a teleost fish. Young spermatids contained centrally positioned nuclei which, with time, moved toward the cell surface to become eccentrically positioned. Chromatin condensation was initiated from a region near the implantation fossa, whereas at the opposite pole of the nucleus an area sparse in heterochromatin (clear area) was noted. The nuclear membrane lying adjacent to the clear area dissolved and subsequently reformed, yielding a nucleus with a reduced volume. During this process, packets of cytoplasm surrounded by a double membrane were formed along the future midpiece. The packets of cytoplasm migrated toward the cell surface, protruded from the surface, and were extruded into the spermatocyst lumen. These structures, termed residual bodies, were subsequently endocytosed, accumulated into large phagocytic vacuoles, and eventually degraded by the nearby Sertoli cell. When the spermatocyst ruptured, spermatozoa containing sparse cytoplasm were released into the excurrent duct system. During spermiogenesis, both the nuclear and cytoplasmic volumes decreased substantially (80%, 92% respectively) leading to an overall 87% reduction in total cell volume.
Fast self-healing gradients

We present CRF-Gradient, a self-healing gradient algorithm that provably reconfigures in O(diameter) time. Self-healing gradients are a frequently used building block for distributed self-healing systems, but previous algorithms either have a healing rate limited by the shortest link in the network or must rebuild invalid regions from scratch. We have verified CRF-Gradient in simulation and on a network of Mica2 motes. Our approach can also be generalized and applied to create other self-healing calculations, such as cumulative probability fields.
Are learning disabled students test-wise?: an inquiry into reading comprehension test items

Previous research has indicated that students in many cases can answer reading comprehension test questions correctly without having read the accompanying passage. The present research compared, in two experiments, the ability of learning disabled (LD) students and more typical age peers to answer such reading comprehension questions presented independently of reading passages. In Study 1, learning disabled students scored appreciably lower under conditions resembling standardized administration procedures. In Study 2, reading decoding ability was controlled for; however, the performance differential remained the same. Results suggested a relative deficiency on the part of LD students with respect to reasoning strategies and test-taking skills. In addition, the validity of some tests of "reading comprehension" was discussed.
A generator program for models of discrete-event systems

Researchers in simulation methodology have been attempting to develop both theories of modelling and software tools to assist in applying those theories. Using results from system theory and automata theory, Oren and Zeigler have demonstrated the need for the design and development of software for modular con struction of models; manipulation, documentation, validation, and generation of simulation programs; and automatic verification of algorithms. We have implemented a software system based on their propo sals. The user describes the structure of the model in a well-defined language. At this time, our system supports only discrete-event models using a next- event strategy; a typical example is a queuing model of service at a bank. However, this simple system demonstrates the feasibility of a more complex system.
FGFR1 inhibits skeletal muscle atrophy associated with hindlimb suspension

Skeletal muscle atrophy can occur under many different conditions, including prolonged disuse or immobilization, cachexia, cushingoid conditions, secondary to surgery, or with advanced age. The mechanisms by which unloading of muscle is sensed and translated into signals controlling tissue reduction remains a major question in the field of musculoskeletal research. While the fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors are synthesized by, and intimately involved in, embryonic skeletal muscle growth and repair, their role maintaining adult muscle status has not been examined. We examined the effects of ectopic expression of FGFR1 during disuse-mediated skeletal muscle atrophy, utilizing hindlimb suspension and DNA electroporation in mice. We found skeletal muscle FGF4 and FGFR1 mRNA expression to be modified by hind limb suspension,. In addition, we found FGFR1 protein localized in muscle fibers within atrophying mouse muscle which appeared to be resistant to atrophy. Electroporation and ectopic expression of FGFR1 significantly inhibited the decrease in muscle fiber area within skeletal muscles of mice undergoing suspension induced muscle atrophy. Ectopic FGFR1 expression in muscle also significantly stimulated protein synthesis in muscle fibers, and increased protein degradation in weight bearing muscle fibers. These results support the theory that FGF signaling can play a role in regulation of postnatal skeletal muscle maintenance, and could offer potentially novel and efficient therapeutic options for attenuating muscle atrophy during aging, illness and spaceflight.
Semantics-based dynamic Web Service composition

This paper presents a semantics-based dynamic service composition architecture that composes an application through combining distributed components based on the semantics of the components. This architecture consists of a component model called Component Service Model with Semantics (CoSMoS), a middleware called Component Runtime Environment (CoRE), and a service composition mechanism called Semantic Graph based Service Composition (SeGSeC). CoSMoS represents the semantics of components. CoRE provides interfaces to discover and access components modeled by CoSMoS. SeGSeC composes an application by discovering components through CoRE, and synthesizing a workflow of the application based on the semantics of the components modeled by CoSMoS. This paper describes the latest design of the semantics-based dynamic service composition architecture, and also illustrates the implementation of the architecture based on the Web Service standards, i.e. WSDL, RDF, SOAP, and UDDI. The Web Service based implementation of the architecture allows existing Web Services to migrate onto the architecture without reimplementation. It also simplifies the development and deployment of a new Web Service on the architecture by automatically generating the necessary description files (i.e. WSDL and RDF files) of the Web Service from its runtime binary (i.e. a Java class file).
Enrichment of (6,5) Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes Using Genomic DNA

Single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have attracted attention because of their potential in a vast range of applications, including transistors and sensors. However, immense technological importance lies in enhancing the purity and homogeneity of SWNTs with respect to their chirality for real-world electronic applications. In order to achieve optimal performance of SWNTs, the diameter, type, and chirality have to be effectively sorted. Any employed strategy for sorting SWNTs has to be scalable, nondestructible, and economical. In this paper, we present a solubilization and chirality enrichment study of commercially available SWNTs using genomic DNA. On the basis of the comparison of the photoluminescence (PL) and near-infrared absorption measurements from the SWNTs dispersed with salmon genomic DNA (SaDNA) and d(GT)20, we show that genomic DNA specifically enriches (6,5) tubes. Circular dichroism and classical all-atom molecular dynamics simulations reveal that the genomic double-stranded SaDNA prefers to interact with (6,5) SWNTs as compared to (10,3) tubes, meanwhile single-stranded d(GT)20 shows no or minimal chirality preference. Our enrichment process demonstrates enrichment of >86% of (6,5) SWNTs from CoMoCat nanotubes using SaDNA.
A laser reflection technique for studying contamination buildup on a fusion reactor liner

Abstract Calculations and measurements of optical reflectance of a gold substrate for various carbon overlayers suggested monitoring a Tokamak liner optically for contamination. A He-Ne laser beam directed at the inner surface of the ORM AK liner reflected back several centimeters in diameter due to the optically rough and irregular surface. Gentle scouring of the liner greatly increased the reflected intensity. A beam splitter in the laser beam directed a portion through a chopper to a photo-multiplier and oscilloscope, this acting as a reference signal. The remainder struck the liner and photomultiplier without being chopped. The reflectance decreased during the first ~200 shots and returned to its original value at about shot 500. Separate reflectance curves were found after clockwise and counterclockwise discharge. Strong temperature effects were seen from liner expansion of gas condensation. Reflectances became erratic after neutral particle injection. We conclude the method is feasible and many have use in plasma diagnostics.
The growth of MnF2 single crystals from the melt

Abstract Optically clear single crystals of MnF 2 , both pure and doped with LiF, were prepared by a modified vertical Bridgman technique. Modifications included the use of a non-uniformly wound resistance furnace, covered crucible with a capillary tip and a crucible sheath that acted as a heat sink during crystal growth. The purity of the starting material, care in its handling during storage and the purity of the furnace atmosphere eliminated the need for additional purification during crystal growth. The melting point of MnF 2 was also measured.
Wireless Temperature Sensor Operating in Complete Metallic Environment Using Permanent Magnets

This paper presents the first wireless temperature sensor operating in a complete metallic environment using permanent rare-earth magnets. The sensor is based on change in magnetic field strength with temperature, which is detected using commercially available Hall Effect sensors. Temperature of a hot plate at a distance of 19 mm in air and through a 9.5-mm-thick nonmagnetic austenitic stainless steel plate is successfully detected from 5 °C to 80 °C as a proof-of-concept demonstration. The curve fit values show excellent response with R2 value greater than 98% for both the cases.
Chiral N-Phosphonyl Imine Chemistry: Asymmetric Synthesis of α-Alkyl β-Amino Ketones by Reacting Phosphonyl Imines with Ketone-Derived Enolates

A series of new chiral syn-alpha-branched beta-amino ketones has been synthesized by reacting chiral phosphonyl imines with ketone-derived enolates. The N-protection group on imine auxiliary was found to be crucial to the asymmetric induction. The absolute stereochemistry has been unambiguously determined by converting a product to a known sample.
Prolyl hydroxylase in pulmonary alveolar macrophages.

It has been reported that cell lines which did not orginate from connective tissue cells either synthesize hydroxyproline-containing polypeptides [l-6] or possess prolyl hydroxylase (EC 1.14.11.2) activity [2,3,7]. Since these cell lines had been maintained in culture for some time, the relationship of these observations to the in vivo function(s) of the cells is uncertain [ 11. Few instances of either the formation of hydroxyproline-containing polypeptides [8] or the presence of prolyl hydroxylase in homogeneous cell populations obtained directly from the intact animal have been reported [9,10]. Pulmonary lavage in humans [ 111 and rabbits [ 12,131 yields a cell population which consists primarily of pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAM). It has been reported that PAM do not either synthesize collagen [ 141 or contain prolyl hydroxylase [7]. The present study demonstrated that rabbit and human PAM do contain significant amounts of prolyl hydroxylase activity.
NEW STATISTICAL FRAMEWORK FOR ESTIMATING CARBON MONOXIDE IMPACTS

The EPA specifies that level-of-service D intersections must undergo detailed microscale carbon monoxide modeling using the recommended software such as CAL3QHCr, which requires an in-depth knowledge of microscale dispersion modeling of pollutants. In this study, a new statistical framework is introduced that is intended to replicate the microscale modeling results achieved with CAL3QHCr. The new framework provides an important means for assessing air quality impacts during the design phase of a transportation project, without having to acquire the modeling skills and/or dispersion modeling knowledge necessary to execute CAL3QHCr. To develop the framework, approximately 23,000 CAL3QHCr simulation scenarios were generated by varying the input values of the major design and dispersion modeling factors. The input values, together with the corresponding output values of CAL3QHCr simulations, were used to specify a statistical model. The proposed model was then validated using field meteorological conditions for five cities in California. The study results show that the proposed model can be easily and reliably used by traffic engineers to predict potential carbon monoxide exceedances at the planning stage.
Interpretation of release rate and extraction measurements made on two types of controlled-release-formulation dispensers containing (Z,Z)-3,13-octadecadien-1-ol acetate.

The release rates of (Z,Z)-3,13-octadecadien-1-ol acetate (ODDA) from two types of controlled-release dispensers were measured by vapor collection. The quantities of ODDA remaining were quantified by gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) after extraction with hexane. The volume of remaining ODDA was measured for one type of dispenser. The release rates determined by vapor collection were lower than expected, and the volume of remaining ODDA indicated low release rates, but the quantities of residual ODDA extracted indicated that much more should have been released. This discrepancy was resolved after infrared spectrometry detected autooxidation products and after four compounds separated by liquid chromatography were shown to arise from autooxidation of ODDA. Therefore, release rates of ODDA cannot be calculated from the residual quantities unless a correction factor is applied.
Crystal Structure of DmdD, a Crotonase Superfamily Enzyme That Catalyzes the Hydration and Hydrolysis of Methylthioacryloyl-CoA

Dimethyl-sulphoniopropionate (DMSP) is produced in abundance by marine phytoplankton, and the catabolism of this compound is an important source of carbon and reduced sulfur for marine bacteria and other organisms. The enzyme DmdD catalyzes the last step in the methanethiol (MeSH) pathway of DMSP catabolism. DmdD is a member of the crotonase superfamily of enzymes, and it catalyzes both the hydration and the hydrolysis of methylthioacryloyl-CoA (MTA-CoA), converting it to acetaldehyde, CO2, MeSH, and CoA. We report here the crystal structure of Ruegeria pomeroyi DmdD free enzyme at 1.5 A resolution and the structures of the E121A mutant in complex with MTA-CoA and 3-methylmercaptopropionate-CoA (MMPA-CoA) at 1.8 A resolution. DmdD is a hexamer, composed of a dimer of trimers where the three monomers of each trimer are related by a crystallographic 3-fold axis. The overall structure of this hexamer is similar to those of canonical crotonases. However, the C-terminal loops of DmdD in one of the trimers assume a different conformation and contribute to CoA binding in the active site of a neighboring monomer of the trimer, while these loops in the second trimer are disordered. MTA-CoA is bound deep in the active site in the first trimer, but shows a 1.5 A shift in its position in the second trimer. MMPA-CoA has a similar binding mode to MTA-CoA in the first trimer. MMPA-CoA cannot be hydrated and is only hydrolyzed slowly by DmdD. Replacement of the sulfur atom in MMPA-CoA with a methylene group abolishes hydrolysis, suggesting that the unique property of the substrate is a major determinant of the hydrolysis activity of DmdD.
A Novel False Lock Detection Technique for a Wide Frequency Range Delay-Locked Loop

A false lock free delay-locked loop(DLL) achieving a wide frequency operation and a fine timing resolution is presented. A novel false lock detection technique is proposed to solve the trade-off between a wide frequency range and false locks. This technique enables a fine timing resolution even at a high frequency. In addition, the duty cycle of the input clock is not required to be 50%. This technique is applied to the DLLs in analog front-end LSIs of digital camera systems, with a range of 4∼65 MHz (×16) and a timing resolution of 9° (40 stages).
NMR Studies of Ion Mobility and Association in Polyether-Based Polymer Electrolytes

Abstract : The results of several investigations of polyether-based polymer electrolytes by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy conducted in the author's laboratory and by other groups are reviewed. For both 7Li and 23Na NMR, the onset of motional line-narrowing occurs at about the glass transition, illustrating the importance of polymer segmental motion to ion transport. Examples of the ability of NMR to probe cation-anion interactions are discussed. These include chemical shift variations corresponding to different Li(+) environments and nuclear quadrupole coupling and relaxation behavior as a probe of Na(+) environment.
Recollections about our 1996 JMR paper on diffusion anisotropy

Abstract We provide scientific background information and personal accounts relating to our publication of “Microstructural and Physiological Features of Tissues Elucidated by Quantitative-Diffusion-Tensor MRI” in the Journal of Magnetic Resonance B. This paper provided a framework for measuring and mapping intrinsic features of diffusion anisotropy obtained from diffusion tensor MRI (DTI) data.
A note on Sun Tzu

The classical Chinese strategist Sun Tzu deserves renewed attention because of recent advances in understanding of the text of his Art of War, as well as his growing relevance to analysis of contemporary Chinese military thought and the revolution in military affairs.
Effects of dietary cholesterol on plasma lipoproteins in Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome.

Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome is a condition of impaired cholesterol synthesis that is caused by mutations in DHCR7 encoding 7-dehydrocholesterol-Δ7 reductase. Birth defects and mental retardation are characteristic. Deficient plasma and tissue cholesterol and excess cholesterol precursors 7 and 8 dehydrocholesterol (7DHC and 8DHC) contribute to the pathogenesis. Cholesterol is transported to tissues via lipoproteins. We measured the effect of dietary cholesterol (egg yolk) on plasma lipoproteins to evaluate this potential treatment. We used the enzymatic method to measure total sterols in lipoproteins (n = 12) and plasma (n = 16). In addition, we analyzed individual plasma sterols by a gas chromatographic method. Samples were evaluated after 3 wk of a cholesterol-free diet and after 6–19 mo of dietary cholesterol. We also analyzed the distribution of sterols in lipoproteins and the apolipoprotein E genotype. Dietary cholesterol significantly increased the total sterols in plasma (2.22 ± 0.13 to 3.10 ± 0.22; mean ± SEM; p < 0.002), in LDL (0.98 ± 0.13 to 1.52 ± 0.17 mM), and in HDL (0.72 ± 0.04 to 0.92 ± 0.07). Plasma cholesterol increased (1.78 ± 0.16 to 2.67 ± 0.25 mM; p < 0.007) and plasma 7DHC decreased in 10 children, but the mean decrease was not significant. The distribution of individual sterols in each lipoprotein fraction was similar to the distribution in plasma. The baseline cholesterol and the response to dietary cholesterol was the same in children with 3/3 and 3/4 apolipoprotein E genotypes. Dietary cholesterol increased total sterols in plasma, LDL, and HDL in children with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome. These favorable increases in the lipoproteins are potentially therapeutic for this condition.
CARClNOlD SYNDROME SECONDARY TO A PRIMARY TUMOUR IN A MECKEL'S DIVERTICULUM

The term carcinoid (karzinoide) was first coined by Oberdorfer in 1907 who found such a tumour in a Meckel’s diverticulum.’ Although Meckel’s diverticulum is the most common developmental abnormality of the gastrointestinal tract (incidence 0.3-1%)2 and carcinoid tumour is the most frequently found tumour in a Meckel’s diverticulum (33% of Meckel’s diverticulum turnours),-’ carcinoid syndrome due to hepatic metastases from a primary carcinoid tumour in a Meckel’s diverticulum is an extreme rarity. Such a case and a review of the relevant literature is presented here.
Small zeros of quadratic forms outside a union of varieties

Let F be a quadratic form in N � 2 variables defined on a vector space VK N over a global field K, and ZK N be a finite union of varieties defined by families of homogeneous polynomials over K. We show that if V \ Z contains a nontrivial zero of F, then there exists a linearly independent collection of small-height zeros of F in V \ Z, where the height bound does not depend on the height of Z, only on the degrees of its defining polynomials. As a corollary of this result, we show that there exists a small-height maximal totally isotropic subspace W of the quadratic space (V,F) such that W is not contained in Z. Our investigation extends previous results on small zeros of quadratic forms, including Cassels' theorem and its various generalizations. The paper also contains an appendix with two variations of Siegel's lemma. All bounds on height are explicit.
Growth of Horizonatal ZnO Nanowire Arrays on Any Substrate

A general method is presented for growing laterally aligned and patterned ZnO nanowire (NW) arrays on any substrate as long as it is flat. The orientation control is achieved using the combined effect from ZnO seed layer and the catalytically inactive Cr (or Sn) layer for NW growth. The growth temperature (<100 °C) is so low that the method can be applied to a wide range of substrates that can be inorganic, organic, single crystal, polycrystal, or amorphous. The laterally aligned ZnO NW arrays can be employed for various applications, such as gas sensor, field effect transistor, nanogenerator, and flexible electronics.
The chitin catabolic cascade in the marine bacterium Vibrio furnissii. Molecular cloning, isolation, and characterization of a periplasmic chitodextrinase.

Abstract Chitin catabolism in Vibrio furnissii comprises several signal transducing systems and many proteins. Two of these enzymes are periplasmic and convert chitin oligosaccharides to GlcNAc and (GlcNAc)2. One of these unique enzymes, a chitodextrinase, designated EndoI, is described here. The protein, isolated from a recombinant Escherichia coli clone, exhibited (via SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) two enzymatically active, close running bands (~mass of 120 kDa) with identical N-terminal sequences. The chitodextrinase rapidly cleaved chitin oligosaccharides, (GlcNAc)4 to (GlcNAc)2, and (GlcNAc)5,6 to (GlcNAc)2 and (GlcNAc)3. EndoI was substrate inhibited in the millimolar range and was inactive with chitin, glucosamine oligosaccharides, glycoproteins, and glycopeptides containing (GlcNAc)2. The sequence of the cloned gene indicates that it encodes a 112,690-kDa protein (1046 amino acids). Both proteins lacked the predicted N-terminal 31 amino acids, corresponding to a consensus prokaryotic signal peptide. Thus, E. coli recognizes and processes this V. furnissii signal sequence. Although inactive with chitin, the predicted amino acid sequence of EndoI displayed similarities to many chitinases, with 8 amino acids completely conserved in 10 or more of the homologous proteins. There was, however, no “consensus” chitin-binding domain in EndoI.