cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of aggrecan in human knee cartilage and synovial fluid indicates that aggrecanase (ADAMTS) activity is responsible for the catabolic turnover and loss of whole aggrecan whereas other protease activity is required for C-terminal processing in vivo

Studies of aggrecan proteolysis in human joints have implicated both the aggrecanase [ADAMTS, a disintegrin-like and metalloprotease (reprolysin-type) with thrombospondin type 1 motif] and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) families. We have analysed the aggrecan core protein species present in vivo in both articular cartilage and synovial fluids from normal, acutely injured and osteoarthritic joints. Normal cartilage contains at least seven major G1 domain (the N-terminal globular domain of aggrecan)-bearing species, of which three (full-length core, G1-NITEGE(373) and G1-VDIPEN(341)) have been identified. The C-terminals of the others are unknown but digestion of fetal human aggrecan with MMP-3 and crude aggrecanase suggests that they are products of MMP-like activity in vivo. Normal synovial fluids contain at least 10 species, of which nine result from ADAMTS-dependent cleavage, and this cleavage occurs at all of the five known aggrecanase sites. Aggrecan fragments in the cartilage and synovial fluids of acutely injured joints are generally similar to normal, but all contain a markedly increased ratio of G1-NITEGE to G1-VDIPEN. Aggrecan from the cartilage of late-stage osteoarthritis patients is remarkably similar to normal, whereas the synovial fluid aggrecan is more fragmented than that from normal or injured knees. The analyses suggest that the role of the ADAMTS and these MMP-like activities in human cartilage are distinctly different. Excessive ADAMTS activity in vivo is destructive to cartilage matrix, since the bulk of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG)-bearing products are released from the tissue into the synovial fluid following cleavage of the Glu(373)-Ala(374) bond. In contrast, the MMP-like activity appears to be essentially non-destructive, since much of the GAG-bearing product is retained in the tissue following cleavages that are in the more C-terminal regions of the molecule.
Black the libertarian

The most serious challenge to Frankfurt-type counterexamples to the Principle of Alternate Possibilities (PAP) comes in the form of a dilemma: either the counterexample presupposes determinism, in which case it begs the question; or it does not presuppose determinism, in which case it fails to deliver on its promise to eliminate all alternatives that might plausibly be thought to satisfy PAP. I respond to this challenge with a counterexample in whichconsidering an alternative course of action is anecessary condition fordeciding to act otherwise, and the agent does not in fact consider the alternative. I call this a “buffer case,” because the morally relevant alternative is “buffered” by the requirement that the agent first consider the alternative. Suppose further that the agent’s considering an alternative action—entering the buffer zone—is what would trigger the counterfactual intervener. Then it would appear that PAP-relevant alternatives are out of reach. I defend this counterexample to PAP against three objections: that considering an alternative isitself a morally relevant alternative; that buffer cases can be shown to containother alternatives that arguably satisfy PAP; and that even if the agent’spresent access to PAP-relevant alternatives were eliminated, PAP could still be satisfied in virtue ofearlier alternatives. I conclude that alternative possibilities are a normal symptom, but not an essential constituent, of moral agency.
Community Readiness: The Journey to Community Healing

Community readiness is a research-based theory that provides a basic understanding of the intervention process in communities. This theory allows us to accurately describe the developmental level of a community relative to a specific issue or problem. In order to move the community toward implementing and maintaining efforts that are effective and sustainable, community mobilization must be based on involvement of multiple systems and utilization of within-community resources and strengths. Successful local prevention and intervention efforts must be conceived from models that are community-specific, culturally relevant, and consistent with the level of readiness of the community to implement an intervention. The community readiness model is an innovative method for assessing the level of readiness of a community to develop and implement prevention programming. It can be used as both a research tool to assess distribution of levels of readiness across a group of communities or as a tool to guide prevention efforts at the individual level. This tool has proven useful in addressing a gamut of problems ranging from health and nutritional issues to environmental and social issues. The model identifies specific characteristics related to different levels of problem awareness and readiness for change.
Design of a smart optically controlled high-power switch for fly-by-light motor actuation systems

In avionic systems, data integrity and high data rates are necessary for stable flight control. Unfortunately, conventional electronic control systems are susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) that can reduce the clarity of flight control signals. Fly-by-Light systems that use optical signals to actuate the flight control surfaces of an aircraft have been suggested as a solution to the EMI problem in avionic systems. Fly-by-Light in avionic systems reduces electromagnetic interference hence improving the clarity of the control signals. A hybrid approach combining a silicon photoreceiver module with a SiC power transistor is proposed. The resulting device uses a 5 mW optical control signal to produce a 150 A current suitable for driving an electric motor.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
On shortest paths and sorting

In finding shortest paths, the operation of finding, successively, a minimum from a list of numbers may require more work than the remainder of the algorithm. It is shown how algorithms from sorting literature can be used to accomplish this part of the shortest path algorithm. Bounds on the largest possible amount of work are established, and results of a computational study are reported.
The functional organization of posterior parietal association cortex

Posterior parietal cortex has traditionally been considered to be a sensory association area in which higher-order processing and intermodal integration of incoming sensory information occurs. In this paper, evidence from clinical reports and from lesion and behavioral-electrophysiological experiments using monkeys is reviewed and discussed in relation to the overall functional organization of posterior parietal association cortex, and particularly with respect to a proposed posterior parietal mechanism concerned with the initiation and control of certain classes of eye and limb movements. Preliminary data from studies of the effects of posterior parietal lesions on oculomotor control in monkeys are reported.The behavioral effects of lesions of posterior parietal cortex in monkeys have been found to be similar to those which follow analogous damage of the minor hemisphere in humans, while behavioral-electrophysiological experiments have disclosed classes of neurons in this area which have functional properties closely related to the behavioral acts that are disrupted by lesions of the area. On the basis of current data from these areas of study, it is proposed that the sensory association model of posterior parietal function is inadequate to account for the complexities of the present evidence. Instead, it now appears that many diverse neural mechanisms are located in part in parietal cortex, that some of these mechanisms are involved in sensory processing and perceptual functions, but that others participate in motor control, and that still others are involved in attentional, motivational, or emotional processes. It is further proposed that the elementary units of these various neural mechanisms are distributed within posterior parietal cortex according to the columnar hypothesis of Mountcastle.
Identification of the fourth allele of the ANS (anthocyanidin synthase) gene and its effect on red color intensity in onions (Allium cepa)

Bulb color in onions (Allium cepa) is an important trait, and homogenous red coloration is desirable in red onion cultivars. The gene encoding anthocyanin synthase (ANS) is required for anthocyanin biosynthesis in onions. We have previously described three different alleles of the ANS gene. Here we report identification of the fourth allele of ANS, ANS-h1, found in a dark red doubled haploid line. ANS-h1 is similar to a non-functional allele found in Brazilian yellow cultivars except that it has several point mutations and indels throughout the promoter and coding regions, none of which are predicted to inactivate enzymatic activity. F2 and backcross populations originating from the crosses between wild-type (ANS-L) allele-containing red and pink (ANS-p) allele-containing white or yellow parents show a discrete segregation ratio of 3 red to 1 light pink, indicating that the wild-type allele is completely dominant over the pink allele. In contrast, segregating populations derived from the crosses between ANS-h1 allele-containing red and the same white or yellow parents show a gradient of red intensity from light pink to dark red, suggesting that other genetic factors may affect expression of ANS-h1. A newly developed PCR-based marker and two previously developed markers for allelic selection of the ANS gene were used to examine allele composition in fifty-six breeding lines and commercial cultivars. Most lines are heterogeneous for the ANS gene with two or three alleles detected. The frequency of the pink allele is low in red breeding lines, but it is predominant in white and yellow lines.
Oral Testing of Beginning Language Students at Large Universities: Is It Worth the Trouble?

ABSTRACT With the current emphasis on developing the communicative competence of our students, most would agree that it is not only desirable but essential that oral skills be tested from beginning levels on. Maintaining a high quality oral testing program is not without difficulties, however, which may be compounded in large universities where beginning level teaching is typically done in large classes by inexperienced graduate students. This article summarizes the findings of a study that examined the place of oral testing in foreign language instructional programs at large institutions today. Problems common to most oral testing programs are described, and suggestions on ways to minimize these problems are proposed.
Silicon Nanowire Growth at Relatively Low Processing Temperature

The Metal Induced Growth (MIG) of nanowires has the potential to alter the conventional lithographic techniques to provide an easier fabrication method in nanoelectronics. Our group has studied the MIG technique to synthesize poly-silicon and nano size structures. This work gave silicon nanowires of 20~200 nm diameter, 3~10µm length and single crystal structure. Until now, the growing of silicon nanowires has been understood by two models. One is an oxideassisted mechanism and the other is a metal catalyst assisted mechanism. Both cases need higher growth temperatures above 900 oC. We are now proposing the repeatable growth of silicon nanowires at a low processing temperature, 550~600 oC, which is the lowest silicon nanowire growth temperature without using a gas type silicon source (silane). This novel method to grow silicon nanowires has several advantages: (1) low processing temperature; (2) straight line growth; (3) single crystal structure and (4) repeatability. This Si nanowire growing mechanism is based on NiSi formation.
Limonoids from Atalantia zeylanica

Abstract A limonoid glucoside and two aglycones, structurally related to the unusual propellane-type limonoid cycloepiatalantin, were isolated from Atalantia zeylanica seeds. The molecular conformation of cycloepiatalantin was determined by X-ray crystallographic analysis. The glucoside, isocycloatalantin 17-β-d-glucopyranoside, is a 6β-hydroxy-7-keto analogue of cycloepiatalantin, and the aglycones, cycloatalantin and dehydrocycloatalantin, are the 7-epimer and the 7-ketone, respectively, of the latter.
THE DECISION PROCESS OF A PROFESSIONALIZED LEGISLATURE: A Cognitive Anthropology Approach

Political science research indicates that some state legislatures have become more professionalized, i.e., taken on many of the characteristics of Congress such as yearround sessions, professional staffs, and formalized bill processes. But is professionalization a factor in legislators' decision making? Triangulated analysis—consensus, cluster, and multidimensional scaling—of two paired comparisons that were administered to a stratified random sample of a professionalized legislature suggests that some of the professionalized characteristics do affect legislators' perception of their decision making on one area of policy, the regulation of and resource allocation to public universities. The analysis also shows that influences on legislators' decision process fluctuate according to issue.
Autologous whole-tumor antigen vaccination in combination with adoptive T cell therapy for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer

Novel therapeutic strategies are warranted in recurrent ovarian cancer. We report two independent consecutive studies of combinatorial immunotherapy comprising dendritic cell (DC)-based autologous whole tumor antigen vaccination in combination with antiangiogenesis therapy. 31 patients with recurrent progressive stage III and IV ovarian cancer with available tumor lysate from secondary debulking surgery enrolled in two different studies. First 6 underwent priming with intravenous bevacizumab and oral metronomic cyclophosphamide followed by vaccination with an autologous DC preparation pulsed with freeze-thaw autologous tumor lysate while the other 25 underwent vaccination with an enhanced vaccine where autologous DCs were loaded with HOCl-oxidized autologous tumor lysate administered intranodally every 2 weeks in combination with intravenous bevacizumab. Both studies were followed by lymphodepletion and transfer of autologous vaccine-primed, ex vivo CD3/CD28-costimulated peripheral blood T-cells, in combination with antiangiogenesis therapy and vaccination. Feasibility, safety, and biological and clinical efficacy were evaluated. Eleven subjects have completed vaccination and T cell transfer to date, while twenty-three additional subjects completed vaccination only. Vaccination was well tolerated and elicited tumor-specific T cell responses against various ovarian tumor antigen in both studies and a clinical benefit of 65% correlated with the immune response with some experiencing prolonged progression free survival. Preliminary results demonstrate that patients’ DCs loaded with HOCl-oxidized lysate elicited strong tumor-specific IFN-γ secretions when incubated with autologous T cells post vaccination. These DC's also produced high levels of Th1-priming cytokines and chemokines, including IL-12. Following lymphodepletion, adoptive transfer of vaccine-primed T-cells was well tolerated and resulted in durable reduction of T-regulatory cells and restoration of vaccine-induced antitumor immunity in patients who experienced clinical benefit. eight out of 11 patients exhibited clinical benefit with one patient achieving a complete response at end of study. Stable disease was observed in 7 subjects to date. Data on additional patients will be presented at the meeting. Our results suggest the use of combinatorial cellular immunotherapy comprising DC vaccination with whole tumor antigen and adoptive lymphocyte transfer using tumor antigen-specific T cells for the treatment of patients with recurrent ovarian cancer is promising yet warrants further investigation.
Early fire detection method in video for vessels

New generation vessels are equipped with fire detecting sensors; however, fire may not immediately be detected if it is far away from the sensors. The fire process therefore cannot be recorded. A video-based fire alarm system is developed to overcome the drawbacks of traditional fire detection equipment. This paper presents a video-based flame and smoke detection method for vessels. For flame detection, the dominant flame color lookup table (DFCLT) is created by using the fuzzy c-means clustering algorithm. The changed video frames are automatically selected and the changed regions deduced from these frames. An elementary, medium, or emergency flame alarm is then triggered by comparing the pixels of changed regions with the DFCLT. The changed video frames are automatically selected for smoke detection. The changed regions are deduced from these frames. If the shape of the changed region conforms to the characteristic which the top area is wider than the bottom area, a dangerous smoke alarm is sounded. The experimental results show that the proposed fire detection approach can detect dangerous flames and smoke, effectively and efficiently.
On the use of approximate velocity profiles for modeling multiphase reactors

The use of an approximate axial gas velocity profile in a two-phase reactor model has been studied. The approximate velocity was assumed to vary linearly with conversion, which reduces the number of differential equations to be solved. The approximate model was studied in systems with one or two reactions. In most cases, the approximate and rigorous solutions were in good agreement. However, when mass transfer strongly influenced the velocity profile, errors in conversion became significant (∼ 15%). Reactions with no change in the number of moles are also subject to errors if the rigorous velocity profile is not accounted for. On a etudie l'utilisation d'un profil de vitesse axiale du gaz approximative dans un modele a reacteur biphasique. On a suppose que la vitesse approximative variait de facon lineaire avec la conversion, ce qui reduit le nombre d'equations differentielles a resoudre. Le modele approximatif a ete etudie dans les systemes avec une ou deux reactions. Dans la plupart des cas, les solutions approximatives et rigoureuses montraient un bon accord. Cependant, lorsque le transfert de matiere influence fortement le profil de vitesse, les erreurs dans la conversion deviennent significatives ( ∼ 15%). Les reactions n'entrainant aucun changement dans le nombre de moles sont egalement susceptibles d'erreurs si on ne tient pas compte rigoureusement du profil de vitesse.
Role of time in the sum-over-histories framework for gravity

I sketch a self-contained framework for quantum mechanics based on its path-integral or “sum-over-histories” formulation. The framework is very close to that for classical stochastic processes like Brownian motion, and its interpretation requires neither “measurement” nor “state-vector” as a basic notion. The rules for forming probabilities are nonclassical in two ways: they use complex amplitudes, and they (apparently unavoidably) require one to truncate the histories at a “collapse time,” which can be chosen arbitrarily far into the future. Adapting this framework to gravity yields a formulation of quantum gravity with a fully “spacetime” character, thereby overcoming the “frozen nature” of the canonical formalism. Within the proposed adaptation, the value of the “collapse time” is identified with total “elapsed” spacetime four-volume. Interestingly, this turns the cosmological constant into an essentially classical constant of integration, removing the need for microscopic “fine tuning” to obtain an experimentally viable value for it. Some implications of the “V = T” rule for quantum cosmology are also discussed.
Flight solar calibrations using the mirror attenuator mosaic: low-scattering mirror

The solar calibration instrumentation and approaches to the scanning radiometers in the ERBE experiment are described in detail. Emphasis is given to evaluating the stability of the mirror attenuator mosaic (MAM) solar diffusing plate. Flight and ground MAM calibration measurements are presented and compared.
Buying greenhouse insurance

Abstract There have been numerous proposals for immediate cutbacks in CO2 emissions. Proponents argue that sizable reductions are necessary as a hedge against unacceptably rapid changes in climate. This paper provides a decision tree analysis of the problem. We examine how the optimal hedging strategy might vary with: a) the damage potential associated with the continued buildup of greenhouse gases; b) the accuracy and timing of climate research; and, c) the prospects for new supply and conservation technologies. The analysis is from the perspective of a single country, the USA. Optimal hedging strategies need to be explored on a region-by-region basis.
Photophysical and Nonlinear Absorptive Optical Limiting Properties of [60]Fullerene Dimer and Poly[60]fullerene Polymer

A systematic study of the photophysical properties and nonlinear absorptive optical limiting responses of the [60]fullerene dimer (C60 dimer) and poly[60]fullerene (poly-C60) polymer in room-temperature solutions is reported. The results are compared with those of C60 and representative C60 derivatives. While the absorption, fluorescence (spectrum, quantum yield, lifetime), and photoinduced electron-transfer properties of the C60 dimer are somewhat different from those of C60, they are qualitatively similar to those of other C60 derivatives. The triplet−triplet absorption of the C60 dimer is noticeably weaker than those of C60 and other C60 derivatives, corresponding to lower optical limiting responses of the C60 dimer at 532 nm. However, the photophysical and nonlinear absorptive optical limiting properties of the poly-C60 polymer are significantly different. The polymer solution shows much weaker fluorescence, barely detectable triplet-state absorption, and marginal optical limiting response. The differ...
Adherence to PEG/ribavirin treatment for chronic hepatitis C: Prevalence, patterns, and predictors of missed doses and nonpersistence

Adherence to treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) maximizes treatment efficacy. Missed doses and failing to persist on treatment are two patient-level processes that are rarely defined or analyzed separately from other factors affecting treatment adherence. We evaluated the prevalence and patterns of missed doses and nonpersistence, and identified patient characteristics associated with these outcomes. Missed doses of ribavirin (RBV) and peginterferon (PEG), measured prospectively in Virahep-C using electronic monitoring technology, were analyzed using generalized estimating equations. Cox proportional hazards models analyzed time to nonpersistence from baseline to week 24 (N=401) and from week 24–48 in Responders (N=242). Average proportion of PEG and RBV missed doses increased over time from 5 to 15% and 7 to 27%, respectively. Patients who were younger, African American, unemployed, or unmarried were at greater risk of missing PEG from week 0–24; higher baseline depression predicted missing PEG from weeks 24–48. Patients who were younger or African American were more likely to miss daily RBV from weeks 0–24; and those without private insurance or employment were more likely to miss RBV from weeks 24–48. Fifty-two patients failed to persist on treatment for patient-driven deviations. Predictors of nonpersistence from weeks 0–24 included younger age, lower education, public or no insurance, or worse baseline headaches. In conclusion electronic monitoring and the prospective Virahep-C design afforded a unique opportunity to evaluate missing doses and nonpersistence separately, and identify patients at risk for nonadherence. These processes will be important to investigate as the dosing schedules of antiviral regimens become increasingly complex.
Rates of protein synthesis in whole and half embryos of the sea urchin

Uptake and incorporation rates of 14C-valine, as measured by the activities of acid-soluble and insoluble fractions, were measured from fertilization to post-gastrula stages of the sea urchin, Lytechinus anamesus. The general pattern of the incorporation rate curve is a complex one consisting of an overall acceleration in rate from fertilization to or after gastrulation interrupted by declines and increases at specific pre-gastrular stages. The uptake rate similarly, although less rapidly, increases after fertilization and during cleavage; the subsequent course of the uptake curve is variable and may or may not resemble its companion incorporation rate curve. Incorporation rate as derived from a pulse measurement is assumed to be a function of both protein synthesis and transport rate of labeled amino acid and it is suggested that rates of protein synthesis may be more accurately reflected by the per cent incorporation, i.e., that percentage of the total labeled amino acid taken up which is incorporated. Per cent incorporation curves indicate two major periods of accelerated rates of protein synthesis: after fertilization through cleavage and shortly after hatching to a late mesenchyme blastula or early gastrula stage. A major decline occurs during ciliation and hatching, minor temporary declines occur at an early cleavage stage and possibly in the early gastrula. It is suggested that comparative levels of protein synthesis during development are pictured more accurately in the per cent incorporation curves; thus the rate of protein synthesis in the early blastula near the close of cleavage is close to the level attained much later during gastrulation. Incorporation rates of 14C-valine in half embryos, obtained by separation of animal and vegetal layers of cells at the 8-cell stage, were measured at times equivalent to early cleavage, late blastula, gastrula and post-gastrula stages. Incorporation rates are essentially similar in both types of embryos. A slightly higher rate of incorporation into vegetal halves during early cleavage may be due to a more rapid transport of the amino acid into the vegetal cells. Per cent incorporation values are approximately the same for animal and vegetal halves at early cleavage and the mesenchyme blastula or early gastrula period. Incorporation rates as well as per cent incorporation values of 14C-methionine were found to be identical in animal and vegetal regions of the fertilized egg through the first cleavage. It is concluded that rates of protein synthesis do not differ in animal and vegetal regions of the egg nor in animal and vegetal half embryos during the period of determination and early differentiation.
A user-focused model for the utilization of evaluation☆

Abstract It is proposed that the present low level of utilization of evaluation findings is traceable in part to their failure to address directly the information needs of a clearly specified decision maker. An alternative model proceeding from such specification is proposed here, with evaluation closely interwoven with the on-going innovation process. The model suggests a number of implications for the organizational role of evalutors, for the design of evaluations, and for directions for methodological development. In particular, we suggest that evaluation designs be assessed against possible “threats to utility” as well as against the traditional “threads to validity.”
Water and magma generation at subduction zones

The basaltic ocean crust, metasomatized and metamorphosed during and after generation at the ocean ridge, contains H2O stored in minerals and pore fluid. Phase equilibrium data establish the conditions for dehydration, and the conditions for melting of amphibole-gabbro or amphibole-quartz-eclogite, or for quartz-eclogite or mantle peridotite if aqueous fluids are available. But there is no concensus about the temperature distribution through the subducted crust, or within the overlying mantle wedge. Therefore, a variety of magmatic models can be derived from the experimental data. According to some calculations, endothermic dehydration reactions in the depth interval 75–125 km cool the oceanic crust to such an extent that it cannot be a major source of magmas; instead, concentrated aqueous fluids released from the crust generate magmas in the overlying peridotite. However, according to most existing thermal models, if temperatures in ocean crust are cool enough to prohibit melting of amphibolite, then temperatures in the mantle above the main sources of expelled fluids are too low for hydrous melting. The ocean crust appears to be effectively dehydrated by 100–125 km depth. Dense hydrous magnesian silicates are not likely candidates for deeper H2O transport. The extent to which H2O can be fixed in metasomatic phlogopite in crust or mantle is a significant but undetermined factor. Experimental data on minerals and liquid compositions do not support the concept of primary magmas for andesites and associated lavas from mantle or subducted crust. Complex, multi-stage processes appear to be more likely, which is consistent with recent interpretations of geochemical data.
Subgroups of LF(2, 2n)

Abstract J. Gierster [ Math. Ann. 26 , 309–368] has proven a number of theorems giving the subgroup structure of LF (2, p n ), p an odd prime, and has given simple necessary and sufficient conditions for two elements of LF (2, p n ) to be conjugate. In this paper we obtain analogous theorems and conditions for LF (2, 2 n ). The methods involve solving congruences mod 2 n .
Dynamic Patterned Expression of Orphan Nuclear Receptor Genes RORα and RORβ in Developing Mouse Forebrain

As a step toward using two closely related members of the nuclear receptor family, RORα and RORβ, as markers and tools for genetic manipulations in mouse forebrain, we have used in situ hybridization to analyze their expression from E10.5 to P7. At later embryonic and early postnatal ages, RORα expression in dorsal thalamus is mainly limited to robust expression throughout the principal sensory nuclei. RORβ is expressed in a similar set of dorsal thalamic nuclei as RORα, but exhibits a more limited expression within the principal sensory nuclei. RORα is expressed as early as E12.5 in dorsal thalamus by presumptive ventroposterior neurons, whereas RORβ expression is not detected until later embryonic ages. RORβ is highly expressed in embryonic neocortex, and exhibits strongly graded rostrocaudal and lateromedial patterns of expression. Over the first postnatal week, the graded expression of RORβ gradually acquires a disjunctive pattern largely restricted to layers 4 and 5 of the primary sensory areas. In contrast, very weak RORα expression is first detected in the neocortex just around birth, and is limited to the middle layer of the cortical plate of the putative somatosensory area. Later, a limited and very weak RORα expression is evident mainly in layer 4 of more caudal areas. To determine whether patterned retinal input is required for the proper postnatal expression and patterning of RORα and RORβ, we performed neonatal bilateral enucleations. We did not detect any significant differences between normal and enucleated mice in expression in visual areas. Although TCA input may be required for proper regulation of the postnatal expression of RORα and RORβ, these findings suggest that aspects of the dynamic postnatal expression and patterning of these genes are regulated independently of patterned visual activity relayed by geniculocortical afferents. The patterned expression of RORα in dorsal thalamus suggests that this gene locus may be useful to genetically modify the development of dorsal thalamus and thalamocortical projections.
The demonstration of two discrete enzymes catalyzing the synthesis of glutamine and γ-glutamylmethylamide in Pseudomonas MS

Abstract Cells of Pseudomonas MS grown on methylamine synthesize both glutamine and γ-glutamylmethylamide. The former activity is detected by the γ-glutamyl transferase assay. Chromatography of extracts of methylamine-grown cells on DEAE cellulose yields 4 peaks of γ-glutamyl transferase activity, but only a single peak of γ-glutamylmethylamide synthetase activity, which coincides with one of the peaks of γ-glutamyl transferase activity. Glucose-grown cells have very minimal (analogue) activity for γ-glutamylmethylamide synthesis, but exhibit the same 4 peaks of γ-glutamyl transferase activity from DEAE cellulose chromatography.
Slow nucleation rates in chain inflation with QCD axions or monodromy

The previous proposal (by two of us) of chain inflation with the QCD axion is shown to fail. The proposal involved a series of fast tunneling events, yet here it is shown that tunneling is too slow. We calculate the bubble nucleation rates for phase transitions in the thick wall limit, approximating the barrier by a triangle. A similar problem arises in realization of chain inflation in the string landscape that uses series of minima along the monodromy staircase around the conifold point. The basic problem is that the minima of the potential are too far apart to allow rapid enough tunneling in these two models. We entertain the possibility of overcoming this problem by modifying the gravity sector to a Brans-Dicke theory. However, one would need extremely small values for the Brans-Dicke parameter in the early universe. Many successful alternatives exist, including other axions (with mass scales not set by QCD) or potentials with comparable heights and widths that do not suffer from the problem of slow tunneling and provide successful candidates for chain inflation.
Nonopioid Analgesics for Osteoarthritis: Availability of Topical NSAIDs

I read with interest the Governmental Reports entitled “Choosing Nonopioid Analgesics for Osteoarthritis: Clinician Summary Guide and Consumer summary Guide from the Agency for Healthcare Research ...
Monitoring streams: a new class of data management applications

This paper introduces monitoring applications, which we will show differ substantially from conventional business data processing. The fact that a software system must process and react to continual inputs from many sources (e.g., sensors) rather than from human operators requires one to rethink the fundamental architecture of a DBMS for this application area. In this paper, we present Aurora, a new DBMS that is currently under construction at Brandeis University, Brown University, and M.I.T. We describe the basic system architecture, a stream-oriented set of operators, optimization tactics, and support for real-time operation.
Performance Evaluation of the 802.16 Medium Access Control Layer

In this work we investigate performance of the medium access control layer of an 802.16 wireless network consisting of 100 subscriber stations (SSs) and a single base stati on (BS). Experimental results show that the average packet queuing delay was virtually the same for weighted round robin and weighted fair queuing scheduling algorithms. Another interesting finding is that adapting the uplink/downlink ratio plays a crucial role in performance as the network load increases and channel conditions change. On the other hand, experiments show that for a higher network load, segmentation of large packets is a necessity in order to achieve performance and QoS conformance. We also observed a smaller average queuing delay for smaller values of frame duration.
A Model Selection-Based Interval-Mapping Method for Autopolyploids

While extensive progress has been made in quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping for diploid species, similar progress in QTL mapping for polyploids has been limited due to the complex genetic architecture of polyploids. To date, QTL mapping in polyploids has focused mainly on tetraploids with dominant and/or codominant markers. Here, we extend this view to include any even ploidy level under a dominant marker system. Our approach first selects the most likely chromosomal marker configurations using a Bayesian selection criterion and then fits an interval-mapping model to each candidate. Profiles of the likelihood-ratio test statistic and the maximum-likelihood estimates (MLEs) of parameters including QTL effects are obtained via the EM algorithm. Putative QTL are then detected using a resampling-based significance threshold, and the corresponding parental configuration is identified to be the underlying parental configuration from which the data are observed. Although presented via pseudo-doubled backcross experiments, this approach can be readily extended to other breeding systems. Our method is applied to single-dose restriction fragment autotetraploid alfalfa data, and the performance is investigated through simulation studies.
Effects of eyestalk removal on cholesterol uptake and ecdysone secretion by crab (Cancer antennarius) Y-organs in vitro.

Abstract Y-Organs and control tissues from intact (intermolt) and 48-hr de-eyestalked Cancer antennarius donors were cultured for 12 and 24 hr in crustacean saline supplemented 10% with crab serum and containing [ 14 C]cholesterol. Under these conditions, Y-organs took up significantly more [ 14 C]cholesterol than ovary or muscle, and Y-organs from 48-hr de-eye-stalked crabs took up threefold more than Y-organs from intact crabs. The labeled cholesterol of the culture medium was observed to bind rapidly to the lipoproteins of the serum supplement; subcellular fractionation of the activated Y-organs after incubation showed 59% of the label localized in the cytosolic fraction. The increase in cholesterol uptake did not result from a change in extracellular volume, and was not accompanied by a change in Y-organ total cholesterol. It was, however, accompanied by a greater than threefold increase in ecdysone secretion.
RF-sputtered ITO and ITO:Zr studied by in situ spectroscopic ellipsometry

We report results from in situ real-time spectroscopic ellipsometry (RT-SE) investigations into the sputter deposition and subsequent annealing behavior of permittivity-engineered transparent conductive oxide (TCO) films. RT-SE reveals information about the growth dynamics and evolution of the films' electro-optical properties during deposition. We investigate the correlations of the ex situ optical and electrical measurements with structural analysis for select films.
A unified multiscale field/network/agent based modeling framework for human and ecological health risk analysis

A conceptual framework is presented for multi-scale field/network/agent-based modeling to support human and ecological health risk assessments. This framework is based on the representation of environmental dynamics in terms of interacting networks, agents that move across different networks, fields representing spatiotemporal distributions of physical properties, rules governing constraints and interactions, and actors that make decisions affecting the state of the system. Different deterministic and stochastic modeling case studies focusing on environmental exposures and associated risks are provided as examples, utilizing the bidirectional mapping between discrete, agent based approaches and continuous, equation based approaches. These examples include problems describing human health risk assessment, ecological risk assessment, and environmentally caused disease.
What's Wrong With This Picture? The Declining Water Table

For over 150 years, people have moved to Colorado in part to see beautiful vistas like the one shown in the photograph. Fourmile Canyon Creek is a typical stream that flows west from the Front Rang...
AN ANALYSIS OF THE SOUTHEASTERN FEEDER PIG MARKET

The production of feeder pigs as a cash com- demand for slaughter hogs. This relationship is modity has been widespread in the southeastern conceptualized in a manner similar to the supply U.S. during the past several years. One indica- relationship. Slaughter hog producers are astion of the extent of marketing pigs at this inter- sumed to maximize expected profits. Therefore, mediate stage is the fact that in 1979, 41 percent the demand for feeder pigs is influenced by the of the total Tennessee pig crop was sold through real price of output and inputs. The demand relaorganized feeder pig sales (Rawls). This spe- tionship is conceptualized as cialized production is continuing in many areas of the Southeast, although a trend has emerged (2) Qd = d(PFP, PMH*, PCORN*, R*) that has more producers holding feeder pigs and feeding them to market weight. where Qd is the quantity of feeder pigs deMany previous studies have dealt with the manded, PFP is the current price of feeder pigs, structure of the pork economy at the slaughter, and PMH* is the expected price of market hogs. wholesale, and/or retail levels (Crom; Harlow; Again all prices are deflated. All other variables Hayenga and Hacklander; Meyers, et al.; Tryfos; were defined earlier. The price of feeder pigs is West). However, no study has considered fac- known to finishers when production decisions tors that directly influence the feeder pig market are made because it is a point-input factor. and the implications that these factors have for Therefore, the current price of feeder pigs is feeder pig producers. most appropriate. This study identifies and quantifies factors that Equations (1) and (2) assume that producers of influence the market for feeder pigs. In order to feeder pigs and hogs reach equilibrium instanfulfill these objectives, an econometric model of taneously. In reality, neither the quantity of the southeastern feeder pig market is fitted, using feeder pigs supplied nor demanded will achieve semiannual data from 1971 to 1980. For this the desired or equilibrium level. The adjustment study, the Southeast includes Alabama, Georgia, process continuously occurs, moving toward the Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South equilibrium amount. The process may be one of Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Medical Diagnosis and Intelligence Levels in Young Mentally Retarded Children.

The relationship of diagnosis to initial and subsequent intelligence test levels in 282 young retarded children was investigated through repeated psychometric evaluation on the Bayley Infant Scales of Mental Development or the Stanford-Binet. It was found that although aetiology relates to first test scores (or rate of initial progress), it has no bearing on changes in scores (or course of development). The implications of the surprisingly stable scores for this heterogeneous population are discussed.
A scalable, incremental learning algorithm for classification problems

In this paper a novel data mining algorithm, Clustering and Classification Algorithm-Supervised (CCA-S), is introduced. CCA-S enables the scalable, incremental learning of a non-hierarchical cluster structure from training data. This cluster structure serves as a function to map the attribute values of new data to the target class of these data, that is, classify new data. CCA-S utilizes both the distance and the target class of training data points to derive the cluster structure. In this paper, we first present problems with many existing data mining algorithms for classification problems, such as decision trees, artificial neural networks, in scalable and incremental learning. We then describe CCA-S and discuss its advantages in scalable, incremental learning. The testing results of applying CCA-S to several common data sets for classification problems are presented. The testing results show that the classification performance of CCA-S is comparable to the other data mining algorithms such as decision trees, artificial neural networks and discriminant analysis.
LPCVD of aluminium in a batch-type load-locked multi-chamber processing system

A reliable aluminium CVD technique for the filling of submicron contacts and vias providing good step coverage has been developed in a load-locked, batch-type, multichamber system. Because of the low resistivity of aluminium the subsequent metallization layer can be realized in the same process sequence. The Al CVD system configured consists of a reactor module, an I/O port, a bake-out annex activation module, a sputter deposition module, and an etch module, all grouped around an evacuated central wafer handling system which transfers wafers, on a single-wafer basis, in a vacuum of 2*10/sup -5/ Pa. The sputter deposition module provides the option to either deposit a sputtered diffusion barrier prior to the CVD film or to cap the CVD film with a Cu-doped sputtered Al layer to further enhance electromigration resistance. For a film thickness of 1 mu m, reflectivities of 55+or-5% are achieved at uniformities of +or-5%. Films exhibit resistivities of 2.8+or-0.2 mu Omega -cm and show good adhesion to most of the commonly used substrates. With a load of 30 wafers for each Al batch reactor, a throughput of 40 wafers per hour can be realized when two Al reactor modules are configured in one system. >
Contributions of gastric volumes and gastric emptying to meal size and postmeal symptoms in functional dyspepsia.

Background & aims: The aim was to assess relative contributions of gastric volumes (GV) and gastric emptying (GE) to meal size and postprandial symptoms in patients with functional dyspepsia. Methods: Patients with chronic upper gastrointestinal symptoms were prospectively evaluated. GV during fasting and after 300 mL Ensure was measured with 99mTc-single-photon emission computed tomography imaging and solid GE (99mTc-egg) by scintigraphy. Maximum tolerated volume (MTV) and symptoms were measured after Ensure challenge. Results: Of 57 adult patients evaluated, 39 (23 women, 16 men) met Rome II criteria for functional dyspepsia and had no other diagnosis to account for dyspepsia. The most frequent symptoms were abdominal pain (90%), pain predominantly after meals (76%), nausea (85%), and early fullness after meals (79%). Relative to established laboratory normal values, MTV was abnormal in 82%, aggregate symptom score >209 in 72%, GE (at 1 hour) accelerated in 41%, GE (at 4 hours) delayed in 41%, and postmeal GV reduced in 52%. Lower body mass was associated with lower MTV and higher postchallenge symptoms. Lower fasting (not postprandial) GV and faster GE were independent predictors of lower MTV, explaining 18% of the variance after adjusting for body weight (32% of variance). GE was an independent predictor of postchallenge symptoms (10% of variance) after adjusting for volume ingested (10%), age (20%), and weight (10%). Conclusions: In adults with functional dyspepsia seen in a tertiary referral practice, decreased meal size and postmeal symptoms are associated with low fasting GV and faster GE. These data provide physiologic targets for ameliorating symptoms of functional dyspepsia.
Lone atrial fibrillation: epidemiology and natural history.

In the case of atrial fibrillation, the old proverb does not apply because not all atrial fibrillators have the same cause or share the same clinical profile or the same natural history. Indeed, this editorial will focus on the heterogeneity that characterizes the syndrome of nonrheumatic or nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.Atrial fibrillation affects approximately 2 million patients in the United States and is associated with a considerable independent increase in mortality rates and a 4-fold to 5-fold increase in the incidence of stroke (approximately 75,000 strokes per year).1-7 Among patients hospitalized in the United States with a primary diagnosis of an arrhythmia,atrial fibrillation was by far the most frequent.2,3 The prevalence of atrial fibrillation increases with age,but in addition, the attributable risk of stroke from atrial fibrillation increases with age. In other words,not only are older patients more likely to develop atrial fibrillation,but their risk of stroke is substantially increased compared with younger patients with atrial fibrillation.4-6 These grim and sobering statistics get worse.The demographic tide has resulted in a burgeoning population of elderly in this and other countries,giving rise to the “epidemic”of atrial fibrillation.8 Moreover, the Framingham Study has demonstrated an increasing prevalence of atrial fibrillation even after adjusting for age, sex,and other comorbidities.9 The explanations for the latter are unclear,but the implications are self-evident.Atrial fibrillation has become the arrhythmia of the 90s and will continue to be a focus of intense interest as we enter the next century.