cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A matrix model for heterotic Spin(32)/Z2 and type I string theory

We consider heterotic string theories in the DLCQ. We derive that the matrix model of the Spin(32)/Z2 heterotic theory is the theory living on N D-strings in type I wound on a circle with no Spin(32)/Z2 Wilson line on the circle. This is an O(N) gauge theory. We rederive the matrix model for the E8 × E8 heterotic string theory, explicitly taking care of the Wilson line around the lightlike circle. The result is the same theory as for Spin(32)/Z2 except that now there is a Wilson line on the circle. We also see that the integer N labeling the sector of the O(N) matrix model is not just the momentum around the lightlike circle, but a shifted momentum depending on the Wilson line. We discuss the aspect of level matching, GSO projections and why, from the point of view of matrix theory the E8 × E8 theory, and not the Spin(32)/Z2, develops an 11th dimension for strong coupling. Furthermore a matrix theory for type I is derived. This is again the O(N) theory living on the D-strings of type I. For small type I coupling the system is 0+1-dimensional quantum mechanics.
Trafficking fraudulent accounts: the role of the underground market in Twitter spam and abuse

As web services such as Twitter, Facebook, Google, and Yahoo now dominate the daily activities of Internet users, cyber criminals have adapted their monetization strategies to engage users within these walled gardens. To facilitate access to these sites, an underground market has emerged where fraudulent accounts - automatically generated credentials used to perpetrate scams, phishing, and malware - are sold in bulk by the thousands. In order to understand this shadowy economy, we investigate the market for fraudulent Twitter accounts to monitor prices, availability, and fraud perpetrated by 27 merchants over the course of a 10-month period. We use our insights to develop a classifier to retroactively detect several million fraudulent accounts sold via this marketplace, 95% of which we disable with Twitter's help. During active months, the 27 merchants we monitor appeared responsible for registering 10-20% of all accounts later flagged for spam by Twitter, generating $127-459K for their efforts.
Achieving R0 resection for locally advanced gastric cancer : is it worth the risk of multiorgan resection?

Abstract BACKGROUND: In gastric adenocarcinoma, only complete resection (R0) translates into survival benefit. Given the potential for increased morbidity and mortality from multiple organ resection we asked the question as to whether extended (multiple organ) resection was justified for advanced gastric cancer. STUDY DESIGN: From July 1985 to July 2000, 1,283 patients underwent gastric resection for adenocarcinoma at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, and were entered and followed in a prospectively recorded database. Four hundred eighteen patients (33%) underwent primary resection and had one or more organs resected in addition to the stomach. Eight hundred twenty-six patients (64%) underwent gastrectomy alone, with 39 patients (3%) not undergoing gastrectomy. Clinicopathologic, operative, and morbidity data were evaluated in this group. Complications were categorized by severity on a scale from 0 to 5, 0 being no complication to 5 being death. Chi-square analysis and the logistic regression method were used to compare and estimate factors significantly associated with having a complication. RESULTS: Three hundred thirty-seven patients had a single additional organ resected, 63 had two organs, and 18 had three organs. Five hundred eighty complications occurred in 33% of patients (404 of 1,283). The perioperative mortality was 4% (48 patients). Logistic regression identified the number of organs resected, two or greater, to be predictive of complications (RR 2.0), as well as age greater than 70 years old (RR 1.57). When excluding minor complications (values 1 and 2), only the number of organs resected (RR 3.8) was a major factor for severe complications (values 3, 4, and 5). CONCLUSIONS: Resection of two or more adjacent organs in advanced gastric adenocarcinoma is associated with a greater risk of developing a complication. The use of a graded surgical complication scale is needed for better reporting and comparison of complications. Achieving an R0 resection should still be considered the goal, even in locally advanced gastric cancer, but resection of additional organs should be performed judiciously.
The Future of Research Publishing: The eReport and eJournal.

I am sure that I sound a familiar chord with other research scientists when I express my excitement at the arrival of the latest edition of my favorite research journal. I carefully peel off the wrapper, reach for my favorite color highlighter, reach for my coffee, and sit down in a comfortable chair to digest the latest articles written by fellow scientists. Even the smell of the fresh print and the crispness of the new paper add to the experience. Reading of new discoveries at the cutting edge of knowledge and determining the place of my own research in those advances can be quite exhilarating. But as familiar and as satisfying as these experiences have been—to say nothing of their contribution to the advancement of science—I sense that it is all about to change in a most extraordinary way. The research article and scientific journal are about to meet the Internet, and the world of scientific reporting will never be the same. I will argue that the transition and result will be nothing short of revolutionary.
Mutational analysis of the adeno-associated virus rep gene.

The replication (rep) gene of the human parvovirus adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a pleiotropic effector of numerous viral functions and experts profound effects on cellular transformation. Of the four Rep proteins, the primarily nuclear Rep78 and Rep68 direct AAV DNA replication, trans activation of the capsid (cap) gene promoter, and inhibition of cellular proliferation mediated by various oncogenes. In an initial attempt to define functional domains in Rep78, we have constructed a comprehensive set of XhoI linker insertion and deletion mutations in the rep gene. Each of the mutant genes has been expressed in cell culture and assayed for the following functions: (i) nuclear localization, (ii) AAV DNA replication, (iii) trans activation of the AAV capsid gene transcription promoter, and (iv) suppression of cellular transformation mediated by the adenovirus E1a and an activated ras oncogene pair. Modest disruptions in the normal conformation of Rep78 inactivated its AAV DNA replication function and trans activation of the cap gene promoter. Linker insertion mutations in the amino-terminal one-third of the protein inactivated Rep789s ability to suppress oncogene-mediated cellular transformation. The transformation suppression domains are not limited to the amino-terminal regions, however, since deletions throughout the protein altered its suppression capabilities. A putative nuclear localization signal that is essential for each of the above functions was found in the Rep proteins. These results provide a preliminary screening of the functional domains in the AAV Rep proteins and pave the way for more subtle mutational analysis. Images
The use of zinc finger peptides to study the role of specific factor binding sites in the chromatin environment.

The once ambitious goal of creating custom DNA-binding factors has been achieved. Advances in construction methodology now enable any laboratory to create site-specific binding proteins to nearly any sequence. Using predefined zinc finger modules, new proteins can be constructed in days with minimal cost and using only standard polymerase chain reaction techniques. The existing spectrum of modules can be rearranged to produce more than one billion different proteins that bind with high affinity and specificity. Artificial transcription factors based on modified zinc finger domains have recently been shown by several groups to be capable of activating or repressing transcription of a handful of endogenous genes in the chromatin environment of plant and animal cells. These proteins can also be used in a number of ways to compete with endogenous factors for specific binding sites in vivo. Zinc finger peptides are therefore useful tools in the study of gene regulation and signal transduction. A detailed description of the construction method is presented, along with a full discussion of potential caveats and future expectations.
The Effects of Leader Motivating Language Use on Employee Decision Making

This study examines the link between strategic leader verbal communication and effective employee decision making. Results show that leader communication (as measured by the motivating language sca...
Etiologies of Chronic Anterior Uveitis at a Tertiary Referral Center over 35 Years

Purpose: To describe the epidemiology of chronic anterior uveitis (CAU) at a tertiary center over 35 years.Methods: Data regarding etiology of CAU was collected from medical records of patients evaluated between 1973-2007. Relative frequencies of each diagnosis of CAU were calculated. Linear regression analyses were performed on the common types of CAU.Results: 5970 patients were evaluated between 1973-2007; 31% carried a diagnosis of CAU. Idiopathic disease was diagnosed in 54% of patients (39 to 72% annually), ocular sarcoidosis in 14% of patients (2 to 20% annually), Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis (FHI) in 12% of patients (4 to 22% annually), and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in 6% of patients (2 to 13% annually). The frequency of diagnosis of idiopathic CAU decreased over time, with no significant change for sarcoidosis, FHI or JIA. An increase in frequency of diagnosis was observed for HLA-B27-related disease and uveitis related to multiple sclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease.Conclusion...
An endobiont‐bearing allogromiid from the Santa Barbara Basin: Implications for the early diversification of foraminifera

[1] Our current understanding of paleoecology and paleoceanography is largely based on the superb Phanerozoic fossil record of foraminiferan protists. The early history of the group is unresolved, however, because basal foraminiferans (allogromiids) are unmineralized and thus fossilize poorly. Molecular-clock studies date foraminiferal origins to the Neoproterozoic, but the deep sea, one of Earth's most extensive habitats and presently hosting a significant fraction of basal foraminiferal diversity, was probably anoxic at that time and, until now, anaerobic allogromiids were unknown. Molecular, cell, and ecological analyses reveal the presence of a previously unknown allogromiid inhabiting anoxic, sulfidic deep-sea sediments (Santa Barbara Basin, California). The fact that the new foraminifer harbors prokaryotic endobionts implicates symbiogenesis as a driving force in early foraminiferal diversification.
The Second Receptor Binding Site of the Globular Head of the Newcastle Disease Virus Hemagglutinin-Neuraminidase Activates the Stalk of Multiple Paramyxovirus Receptor Binding Proteins To Trigger Fusion

The hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) protein of paramyxoviruses carries out three distinct activities contributing to the ability of HN to promote viral fusion and entry: receptor binding, receptor cleavage (neuraminidase), and activation of the fusion protein. The relationship between receptor binding and fusion triggering functions of HN are not fully understood. For Newcastle disease virus (NDV), one bifunctional site (site I) on HN′s globular head can mediate both receptor binding and neuraminidase activities, and a second site (site II) in the globular head is also capable of mediating receptor binding. The receptor analog, zanamivir, blocks receptor binding and cleavage activities of NDV HN′s site I while activating receptor binding by site II. Comparison of chimeric proteins in which the globular head of NDV HN is connected to the stalk region of either human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV3) or Nipah virus receptor binding proteins indicates that receptor binding to NDV HN site II not only can activate its own fusion (F) protein but can also activate the heterotypic fusion proteins. We suggest a general model for paramyxovirus fusion activation in which receptor engagement at site II plays an active role in F activation.
Orientation relationships in heteroepitaxial aluminum films on sapphire

Abstract We investigate the microstructure and orientation relationships observed in aluminum thin films deposited epitaxially on sapphire (0001). The films consist of grains with three distinct types of orientation relative to the substrate. The primary orientation is such that (0001)Al2O3‖(111)Al and [10 1 0] Al2O3‖ [ 1 10] Al. This configuration, which matches the close-packed planes and directions of the metal film with those of the oxygen ion sublattice in the sapphire substrate, allows for growth of two symmetrically equivalent orientation variants resulting in a film composed of interlocking regions of these two domains. Unexpectedly, two additional orientation types are identified in the films. As in the primary variant, the close-packed aluminum {111} planes remain parallel with the sapphire basal planes. However, these orientations are rotated about the aluminum [111] axis such that [10 1 0] Al2O3 is parallel to directions near either [ 1 2 1 ] Al (30° rotation) or [5 4 1 ] Al (∼11° rotation).
Thermal decomposition studies of some solid propellant binders

An experimental investigation using the method of differential scanning calorimetry was conducted to study the thermal decomposition of four composite solid propellant binders—polysulfide (PS), polyurethane (PU), polybutadiene acrylic acid (PBAA), and carboxy terminated polybutadiene (CTPB). Binder samples weighing 1–6 mg were thermally decomposed in a Perkin-Elmer DSC-1B unit. A nitrogen atmosphere at 1 atm pressure was used, and temperature scan rates from 1.25°K/min to 80°K/min were programmed. Energetics and kinetics, as well as physical observations, were obtained during the temperature scans. The relevance of the generated kinetic data to solid propellant combustion is discussed.
Non-invasive mapping of deep-tissue lymph nodes in live animals using a multimodal PET/MRI nanoparticle

The invasion status of tumour-draining lymph nodes (LNs) is a critical indicator of cancer stage and is important for treatment planning. Clinicians currently use planar scintigraphy and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with (99m)Tc-radiocolloid to guide biopsy and resection of LNs. However, emerging multimodality approaches such as positron emission tomography combined with magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) detect sites of disease with higher sensitivity and accuracy. Here we present a multimodal nanoparticle, (89)Zr-ferumoxytol, for the enhanced detection of LNs with PET/MRI. For genuine translational potential, we leverage a clinical iron oxide formulation, altered with minimal modification for radiolabelling. Axillary drainage in naive mice and from healthy and tumour-bearing prostates was investigated. We demonstrate that (89)Zr-ferumoxytol can be used for high-resolution tomographic studies of lymphatic drainage in preclinical disease models. This nanoparticle platform has significant translational potential to improve preoperative planning for nodal resection and tumour staging.
Preference Mapping of Commercial Toasted White Corn Tortilla Chips

: This study was conducted to identify what constitutes consumer preference for and acceptance of white corn tortilla chips. Consumer overall acceptance of tortill chips was modeled by consumer data for acceptance of appearance, flavor, and texture and by descriptive sensory and/or instrumental data. Internal preference mapping (R2= 0.99) showed that flavor was the most important attribute to consumer overall acceptance followed by texture and appearance. The basic salt attribute and aftertaste attributes of salt, raw masa, and toasted grain aftertastes were important to consumer flavor acceptance, and the attributes of crispness, loose particles, hardness and oily/greasy film were responsible for consumer acceptance of texture. One appearance descriptive attribute (char marks) and 1 instrumental color measurement (a) were significantly related to consumer acceptance of appearance.
Evidence for nascent equilibrium nuclei as progenitors of anomalous transformation kinetics in a Pu-Ga alloy

By alloying Pu with Ga, the face-centered-cubic $\ensuremath{\delta}$ phase can be retained down to room temperature in a metstable configuration, which ultimately yields to chemical driving forces by undergoing the $\ensuremath{\delta}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ isothermal martensitic transformation below ${M}_{s}\ensuremath{\approx}\ensuremath{-}100\text{ }\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}\text{C}$. This transformation is found to exhibit anomalous transformation kinetics, the nature of which has remained elusive for over 30 years. Recently, a ``conditioning'' treatment\char22{}an isothermal hold above ${M}_{s}$\char22{}has been shown to dramatically affect the amount of ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ phase formed during the transformation. Herein, we report evidence that the conditioning treatment induces the lower C of the double-C curve and we furthermore implicate the classical nucleation of equilibrium phases as the underlying mechanism of the conditioning effect in Pu-Ga alloys. This mechanism should not be rigorously exclusive to plutonium alloys as it arises from the proximity of energies between the retained metastable phase and the low-energy equilibrium phases.
Selected practices and tools for better accessibility in digital library projects

Purpose – Issues related to accessibility of web based resources are more important than ever. In part this is being driven by demands for more consistent treatment of various accessibility issues on websites. However, recent complaints by students and consumers on commercial sites highlight the fact that issues related to accessibility remain to be resolved. This article aims to review current practice.Design/methodology/approach – The methodology and approach in the article is based on a review of current literature and practice in the area.Findings – Responsive design as well as several techniques and free tools can be used to address many of the most common issues related to accessibility.Originality/value – This article adds to the existing literature in this area by providing a comprehensive overview and guide to the topic area.
Locally Advanced and Unresectable Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Outcomes of Concurrent Cetuximab and Radiotherapy

Background. Advanced age and immune dysfunction are risk factors for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) and often render patients with locally-advanced disease medically inoperable or surgically unresectable, but potentially curable with radiotherapy. Concurrent chemotherapy and radiotherapy may not be well tolerated in this population, but another systemic therapy may improve disease control. Objective. Determine the tolerance and efficacy of concurrent cetuximab and radiotherapy (CRT) for patients with locally advanced and unresectable cSCC. Methods. Retrospective analysis of 12 patients treated with CRT for locally advanced and unresectable cSCC. Results. Patients were elderly and 75% had moderate-to-severe comorbidities, while 42% had immune dysfunction. Grades 3-4 adverse events were noted in 83% of patients; 67% required hospital admission for adverse events. Complete and partial response was noted in 36% and 27% (response rate, 64%). Stable and progressive disease was noted in 3 and 1 patients, respectively (disease control rate, 91%). Median progression-free and overall survival were 6.4 and 8.0 months, respectively. Limitations. Retrospective small-cohort, single-institution analysis. Conclusion. Patients selected for CRT were elderly, with comorbidities and immune dysfunction, but treatment responses were observed. Patients selected for this treatment approach have a poor prognosis with limited capacity for therapy; more effective treatment is needed.
Prediction of uterine rupture associated with attempted vaginal birth after cesarean delivery

Even though uterine rupture during an attempted vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) occurs infrequently, the potential ramifications, such as hysterectomy and neonatal neurodevelopmental disability or death, are of great clinical significance.1 Correspondingly, when pregnant women with a prior cesarean delivery are confronted with the decision of whether to attempt a trial of labor (TOL), the possibility of a uterine rupture is particularly relevant to their decision-making process. In an effort to aid this process, investigators have studied the different factors that are associated with the occurrence of uterine rupture.2–5 The identification of factors associated with uterine rupture may allow physicians to provide general guidance to a woman regarding her chance of uterine rupture during a TOL. However, even though certain factors may be associated with uterine rupture, it does not necessarily follow that those associations can be combined to allow accurate prediction of the probability of a uterine rupture for an individual woman. The development of such a prediction model could further aid women and their caregivers in counseling regarding the decision to attempt a VBAC. Macones et al attempted to develop a model for the prediction of uterine rupture, but were unable to construct an accurate one.6 We have recently demonstrated a methodological technique for developing a graphical nomogram that can be used to accurately predict the probability of another important component of the decision to undergo a TOL, namely, the chance of achieving a vaginal delivery.7 We hypothesized that this technique also could allow the development of an accurate prediction model for uterine rupture. In this study, we have investigated that possibility.
Effect of monolaurin and lactic acid on Listeria monocytogenes attached to catfish fillets

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of monolaurin and lactic acid, singly or combined, on Listeria monocytogenes attached to catfish fillets. Skinless catfish fillets were inoculated with L. monocytogenes and dip treated in monolaurin and/or lactic acid solution for various time periods. Results showed that monolaurin up to 400 micrograms/ml had no influence on counts. Conversely, lactic acid-treated fillets had reduced counts compared to controls. Dipping in 0.85, 1.70, or 2.55% lactic acid for 30 min reduced counts by 0.9, 1.4, or 1.3 logs, respectively. Extending the dipping time to 60 min resulted in little additional decrease in counts. Combining monolaurin with lactic acid yielded results similar to lactic acid alone. Hence, population reduction ability resides with lactic acid and not monolaurin.
Lunar industries and their value for the human environment on Earth

Abstract The task of establishing a Permanent Manned Lunar Laboratory faces two major problem areas: how to achieve permanency with a maximum autonomy, i.e. minimum dependency on logistics from Earth; and how to contribute to the improvement of the human environment on Earth. This paper addresses itself to both problems by taking a synergistic approach. Permanent settlements are treated as center of a selenosphere. The size of the selenosphere is of secondary importance, although there is obviously a minimum size; the modus operandi is of primary significance. It is based on applying the concept of information metabolism: the information oriented and information controlled interaction with the lunar environment on the basis of synergistically integrating three aspects: extraction of lunar materials for local autonomy, cycling, and utilization of the “waste products” for industrial “export products”, in order to supply orbiting installations and lay the foundations for the gradual evolution of a functionally integrated lunar and orbital industrial complex whose ultimate purpose is to reduce the ecological burden on the terrestrial environment, thus improving the human environment without reducing the level of productivity required by modern civilization. This development is not feasible without adequate and economic transportation. But, in the framework of this paper, the transportation problem becomes turned around in the sense that the bulk of the transportation volume is not directed from Earth to Moon, but from Moon to Earth or orbits in geospace. In the first part of the paper, the findings of lunar landings are reviewed in terms of their significance for the selenosphere (in distinction to their scientific significance). The second part deals with aspects of resource extraction from the environmental and economic-industrial standpoint. The third part addresses itself to cyclic processes and resupply requirements (either from Moon or Earth). The final part discusses the industrial utilization of waste products from cyclic processes in the selenosphere, their role in the evolution of an extraterrestrial industrial base and the resultant value of the selenosphere on the terrestrial ecology and the human environment on Earth. Throughout the second to fourth parts of the paper, the discussion of technological possibilities is tempered with considerations of transportation requirements, cost/benefit ratios and relevance to major economic, ecological and social problems of our time.
Cholinergic Deafferentation of Dorsal Hippocampus by Fimbria-Fornix Lesioning Differentially Regulates Subtypes (m1-m5) of Muscarinic Receptors

Unilateral aspiration lesions of the rostral supracallosal stria/cingulum bundle and fimbria-fornix were performed on adult female rats. Ten and 24 days post lesioning, an elevation (17%; p < 0.01) of total muscarinic receptors was observed in lesioned versus control hippocampi. By using antisera selective for each of the five molecularly defined subtypes (m1-m5) of muscarinic receptors, significant changes were observed in the levels of expression for at least four receptor proteins. Three receptor subtypes increased in density: m1 by 14% (from 943 to 1,078 fmol/mg); m3 by 77% (from 150 to 268 fmol/mg); and m4 by 29% (from 220 to 285 fmol/mg). In contrast, a 22% decrease in the density of m2 receptors was found (from 220 to 173 fmol/mg). Detectable levels of m5 receptors were low in the hippocampus (approximately 1% of total receptors), and reliable measurements were not obtained. The directions of these changes are likely to be related to the pre- or postsynaptic localization of these receptor subtypes.
Maternal influences on adult blood pressure of SHRs: a single pup cross-fostering study.

Abstract To examine the effects of the preweanling maternal environment on the development of adult blood pressure, individual spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) normotensive pups were reciprocally cross-fostered between mothers of the same or opposite strain. With this design, each SHR and WKY foster mother reared 7 of her own pups and 1 SHR or WKY foster pup. All litters were weaned at 21 days of age and body weights were obtained. At 110 days of age, SHR and WKY males were weighed and surgically prepared with chronic tail artery catheters. One day later, basal measures of mean arterial pressure (MAP, mmHg) and heart rate (HR, beats per min) were obtained while animals were resting and undisturbed in their home cages. Our findings indicate that adult SHRs reared by WKY foster dams displayed significant reductions in MAP compared to SHRs that were reared by their natural mothers or by SHR foster mothers. In contrast, MAPs of WKYs did not differ across rearing conditions. Weanling body weights of cross-fostered SHRs were significantly greater than control-reared SHRs while weanling body weights of cross-fostered WKYs were significantly lower than control-reared WKYs. However, by 110 days of age, there were no treatment-related effects on body weights of males of either strain. These findings underscore the importance of genotype × maternal environment interactions during the preweanling period for the development of cardiovascular phenotype in SHRs.
Temporal lobe surgery in medically refractory epilepsy: A comparison between populations based on MRI findings

Abstract Introduction High resolution MRI findings suggestive of mesial temporal sclerosis (MRI-MTS) correlate with good outcome after surgery. However, a large group of patients present with normal brain MRI (N-MRI) and temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). We aim to compare pre-operative ictal EEG patterns in predicting surgical outcomes in the population with MRI-MTS vs. N-MRI after selective anterior-mesial temporal lobe (AMTL) resection. Methods 241 patients with unilateral anterior ictal EEG findings underwent selective AMTL resection. 143 MRI-MTS and 98 N-MRI patients were identified. Outcome was based on the modified Engel classification, ictal EEG pattern at seizure onset, demographics and MRI findings. Results Seizure-free outcome was seen in the MRI-MTS in 79% of patients, compared to 59.1% ( p p Discussion and conclusion Surgical treatment for mesial TLE is effective. Positive MRI suggestive of mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS) predicts better seizure control after surgery. Theta rhythm is the most common ictal pattern and seems to carry the best prognosis for TLE. However, a well-selected group of patients with N-MRI will benefit from surgical intervention, and similar outcome to MRI-MTS patients can be achieved if delta ictal EEG pattern is presented at initial onset. Early referral to an epilepsy center cannot be emphasized enough, even in situations when high-resolution brain MRI is normal.
Interspecies communication in bacteria

Until recently, bacteria were considered to live rather asocial, reclusive lives. New research shows that, in fact, bacteria have elaborate chemical signaling systems that enable them to communicate within and between species. One signal, termed AI-2, appears to be universal and facilitates interspecies communication. Many processes, including virulence factor production, biofilm formation, and motility, are controlled by AI-2. Strategies that interfere with communication in bacteria are being explored in the biotechnology industry with the aim of developing novel antimicrobials. AI-2 is a particularly attractive candidate for such studies because of its widespread use in the microbial kingdom.
Renewed interest in the polyphosphoinositides

Abstract The significance of the enhanced cellular phosphatidate and phosphatidylinositol turnover which occurs in response to specific extracellular messengers has been the subject of much interest and speculation. Until recently, much less attention has been paid to the presence of two quantitatively minor phosphorylated derivatives of phosphatidylinositol, known collectively as the polyphosphoinositides. These lipids have an extremely rapid 32 P turnover rate and are presumed to be localized predominantly in the plasma membranes. Their turnover now appears to be linked with that of phosphatidate and phosphatidylinositol, and is discussed here in relation to the consequences of ligand-receptor interactions.
The X-Linked Mental Retardation Gene SMCX/JARID1C Defines a Family of Histone H3 Lysine 4 Demethylases

Histone methylation regulates chromatin structure and transcription. The recently identified histone demethylase lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) is chemically restricted to demethylation of only mono- and di- but not trimethylated histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4me3). We show that the X-linked mental retardation (XLMR) gene SMCX (JARID1C), which encodes a JmjC-domain protein, reversed H3K4me3 to di- and mono- but not unmethylated products. Other SMCX family members, including SMCY, RBP2, and PLU-1, also demethylated H3K4me3. SMCX bound H3K9me3 via its N-terminal PHD (plant homeodomain) finger, which may help coordinate H3K4 demethylation and H3K9 methylation in transcriptional repression. Significantly, several XLMR-patient point mutations reduced SMCX demethylase activity and binding to H3K9me3 peptides, respectively. Importantly, studies in zebrafish and primary mammalian neurons demonstrated a role for SMCX in neuronal survival and dendritic development and a link to the demethylase activity. Our findings thus identify a family of H3K4me3 demethylases and uncover a critical link between histone modifications and XLMR.
Localization on the pushpin computing sensor network using spectral graph drawing and mesh relaxation

This work approaches the problem of localizing the nodes of a distributed sensor network by leveraging distance constraints such as inter-node separations or ranges between nodes and a globally observed event. Previous work has shown this problem to suffer from false minima, mesh folding, slow convergence, and sensitivity to initial position estimates. Here, we present a localization system that combines a technique known as spectral graph drawing (SGD) for initializing node position estimates and a standard mesh relaxation (MR) algorithm for converging to finer accuracy. We describe our combined localization system in detail and build on previous work by testing these techniques with real 40-kHz ultrasound time-of-flight range data collected from 58 nodes in the Pushpin Computing network, a dense hardware testbed spread over an area of one square meter. In this paper, we discuss convergence characteristics, accuracy, distributability, and the robustness of this localization system.
Social scripts for conversational interactions in autism and Down syndrome

The ability of highfunctioning verbal individuals with autism or Down syndrome (DS) to respond appropriately to conversational “social scripts” involving responding to another person's distress was investigated. Subjects were 13 persons with autism and 13 with DS, matched on verbal mental age. During a “tea party” situation, subjects were each told about an examiner's unhappy personal experience (e.g., a stolen wallet). If the subject did not produce an acceptable response after several probes (e.g., “My money's gone; now I can't buy groceries”), the other examiner modeled a sympathetic response and more probes were administered. Subjects with DS gave a significantly greater percentage of relevant suggestions and sympathetic comments, whereas subjects with autism gave a significantly greater percentage of responses relating only to the tea party. Significantly more subjects with autism than DS required modeling. Although a smaller percentage of subjects in the autism group than the DS group exhibited improvement after modeling, some subjects with autism were able to improve, suggesting that they understood some aspects of the social situation (the social script) but needed help formulating an appropriate response.
Tests of male soft scale insects (Homoptera: Coccidae) from America north of Mexico, including a key to the species.

Tests (pupal covers) of twenty-eight species of male Coccidae, representing fifteen genera from America north of Mexico, are described and illustrated. Tests of each of the species exhibit morphological differences which are useful in identification. Terminology is given for the sutures, corresponding plates, and related structures of the generalized test and a key is provided for separation of the described species.
Physical Modeling of Combined Forced and Natural Convection in Wet Geothermal Formations

Wet geothermal formations or reservoirs are of great current interest as a new energy source. Such formations have the potential for large quantities of energy at temperatures of interest for power production and other uses. In these reservoirs the ground water usually contains dissolved solids in such high concentration as to pose a serious disposal problem. For this reason and also to maintain the water table, in most cases, the water will be reinjected into the reservoir after the useful energy has been extracted. Efficient utilization of the potential of a given reservoir requires optimum location of costly producing and reinjection wells. Selection of well location must be based upon an understanding of the heat and mass flows within the reservoir. Some general considerations for physical modeling as well as the results obtained from a laboratory model having two wells to simulate a geothermal energy extraction loop are presented.
Afferent connections of the lateral agranular field of the rat motor cortex

Retrograde axonal transport techniques were used to identify the afferent connections of the lateral agranular field (AG1) of the rat frontal cortex. This cytoarchitectonically distinct cortical field forms the bulk of the primary motor cortex (MI) as defined by intracortical microstimulation studies (Donoghue and Wise, '82). Following injections of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) or wheat germ agglutinin conjugated to HRP into AG1, retrogradely labeled cells are found in the forebrain, thalamus, and brainstem. Within the cerebral cortex labeled neurons are mainly present in the first somatic sensory area (SI), the second somatic sensory area (SII), and the medial agranular field, which lies medial and rostral to AG1. In SI, labeled cells are found primarily in a cytoarchitecturally distinct region called the dysgranular field of SI. Labeled neurons are present in layers II and III, Va, and the deepest part of layer VI in this field and in SII. Labeled cells are also present in layers Va and VI of the densely granular field of SI, which is the part of SI that is strongly activated by cutaneous inputs. Commissural inputs to AG1 arise from layers II-VI of the contralateral AG1 and thalamic inputs arise from the ventrolateral, ventromedial, posterior medial, and central lateral nuclei. Additional afferent fibers originate from neurons in the basal forebrain, the ventral thalamus, the midbrain raphe nuclei, and the locus coeruleus. This combination of inputs to AG1 from somatic sensory and frontal cortical fields, thalamic motor centers, and several other subcortical areas implies that AG1 forms a subdivision of sensorimotor cortex that is important in centrally directed movements as well as those that are guided by somatic sensory feedback.
Interfacial synthesis of bisphenol A tetrachlorocyclotriphosphazene from bisphenol A and hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene

Abstract The effect of solvent purity on the synthesis and yield of bisphenol A tetrachlorocyclotriphosphazene (BATCCP) has not been described in the literature. The purpose of this research was to synthesize BATCCP hybrid monomers and to evaluate the effect of solvent purity on the BATCCP production. BATCCP monomers were prepared by an interfacial procedure in a water/toluene system as a function of time with the assistance of a phase transfer catalyst, tetraoctylammonium bromide. 1 H and 31 P NMR confirmed the production of BATCCP monomer by the appearance of chemical shifts at 7.18 and 5.35 ppm in the 1 H NMR and 23.4 and 13.9 ppm in the 31 P NMR, respectively. Distillation of the toluene, not suggested in previous reports of HCCP hybrid synthesis, resulted in an improvement of actual % yield to 40% and stability of the product throughout the 1440 min reaction as confirmed by MALDI, compared with an 11% actual yield at 15 min, decaying to 2% over a 1440 min reaction when the synthesis was performed with ‘anhydrous toluene’ as provided commercially without further distillation.
More on tariffs vs. import quotas

This paper uses the offer-curve approach to analyze the welfare effects of a tariff and of the static-equivalent quota in a country which experiences changes in its import demand. For a small country, a tariff is always superior to the static-equivalent quota when it experiences an increase in its import demand. On the other hand, a tariff is always inferior to the static-equivalent quota when it experiences a decrease in its import demand. However, one cannot rank a tariff and the static-equivalent quota from a welfare standpoint in a large country. This is true whether the large country experiences an increase or a decrease in its import demand.
Stocking wild adult Florida largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides floridanus): An additional fish management tool

Stocking of largemouth bass is an important management tool for fish management. The stocking of hatchery-produced fingerling or advanced-fingerling bass to supplement bass year-classes, however, has exhibited varying success. Utilizing a different approach, a multiyear stocking programme using wild adult largemouth bass was initiated at the Harris Chain of Lakes (3800 ha Lake Griffin; 1811 ha Lake Dora) in central Florida. Wild adult bass (24 781 fish), ranging in size from 200 mm total length (TL) to over 600 mm TL, were stocked in Lake Griffin (13 932 fish) and Lake Dora (10 849 fish). One month after stocking, the number of stocked bass caught in electrofishing catches in Lake Griffin and Lake Dora was ~10% and 22%, respectively. Estimates of mortality were similar to the native largemouth bass, although the movement of stocked fish into other connecting water bodies was extensive. For the Lake Griffin/Lake Dora stocking programme, bass were transferred at a cost of $10.09–19.89 per fish, depending on how the costs of the project are calculated ($250 000 for just the capture and transport of the fish vs. $492 775 for the total project). Considering only capture and transport costs, conservative benefit/cost ratio estimates would be $1.77/$1.00 spent for replacement and $1.85/$1.00 spent recreational costs, although the benefit/cost ratios could exceed $10/$1. Based on the present study, stocking wild adult largemouth bass is a cost-effective tool for managing largemouth bass.
Intracerebroventricular administration of cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonists AM251 and AM4113 fails to alter food-reinforced behavior in rats.

Rationale Drugs that interfere with cannabinoid CB1 transmission suppress food-motivated behaviors and may be useful as appetite suppressants, but there is uncertainty about the locus of action for the feeding-suppression effects of these drugs.
Antigenic composition of the cell wall of Streptococcus mitis

Abstract Streptococcus mitis, previously described as a serologically unclassifiable species, has been serologically grouped by the cell wall agglutination method. The three ATCC strains and thirty-three oral strains of Strep. mitis were divided into two serological groups. Group I reacted only with antisera for Group N and consisted of ATCC strains 9811M7A, 6249, and twenty-five of the oral strains. Group II consisted of ATCC strain 903 and the remaining eight oral strains all of which reacted with antisera for both Groups O and N. The chemical composition of the cell wall may explain this difference in antigenicity. The cell wall of all strains examined contained alanine, glutamic acid, lysine, aspartic acid, arginine, tyrosine, galactosamine, glucosamine and muramic acid. No quantitative differences in amino acids or amino sugars were found between any of the strains. The differences were in the quantity of cell wall sugars. The sugars found were glucose, rhamnose, galactose, mannose, and arabinose. Serological group I contained a slightly detectable amount of arabinose, while Group II possessed only a trace of arabinose.
Transitioning nutrition education programming delivery to online formats.

As resources decline and clientele demographics change, educators working in informal settings are challenged to maintain programs for traditional adult audiences while using new strategies to reach nontraditional audiences. By combining traditional and online methods, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) Extension has leveraged resources to provide effective nutrition and physical activity programming to participants statewide.
POSTMORTEM QUALITY CHANGES IN ICED PACIFIC SHRIMP (Pandalus jordani)

The postmortem biochemical changes in intact raw shrimp during iced storage were investigated and the relationship between these changes and the quality of the cooked product was evaluated. Changes in pH, microbial numbers, total and nonprotein nitrogen, tyro-sine and carotenoid pigment content, proteolytic and polyphenolase enzyme activities and levels of trimethylamine-oxide, trimethylamine, dimethylamine and formaldehyde were determined. Chemical changes were shown to be mediated by a combination of bacterial action and endogenous enzymatic activity. The washing action of melting ice could have played a major role. Organoleptic quality as shown by flavor panel evaluations progressively declined during an 8-day storage period. Dimethylamine and formaldehyde levels in intact shrimp progressively increased as flavor panel scores decreased and may offer additional sensitive indices of cooked meat quality
Protection for Whom?: Maximum Hours Laws and Women's Employment in the United States, 1880-1920

Around the turn of the century, many states enacted laws restricting the hours women could work. Yet little research has been done on the impact of these laws on women's employment. Traditional feminist political theories suggest that these laws disadvantaged women relative to men by reducing employers' willingness to hire women workers. Traditional class theories, focusing on employers' class interests, suggest that these laws were weakly implemented and enforced, allowing employers continued access to low-wage female labor. A third view, a feminist-class view, suggests that the effects of hours laws reflected both employers' class interests and their gendered interests and that ultimately the impact of the laws advantaged women workers. Quantitative analyses show that hours laws in certain circumstances increased women's share of employment but did not affect patterns of occupational sex segregation. The article concludes that both traditional class and feminist-class theories are supported.
Transforming growth factor beta receptor 1 is increased following abstinence from cocaine self-administration, but not cocaine sensitization

The addicted phenotype is characterized as a long-lasting, chronically relapsing disorder that persists following long periods of abstinence, suggesting that the underlying molecular changes are stable and endure for long periods even in the absence of drug. Here, we investigated Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Type I receptor (TGF-β R1) expression in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) following periods of withdrawal from cocaine self-administration (SA) and a sensitizing regimen of non-contingent cocaine. Rats were exposed to either (i) repeated systemic injections (cocaine or saline), or (ii) self-administration (cocaine or saline) and underwent a period of forced abstinence (either 1 or 7 days of drug cessation). Withdrawal from cocaine self-administration resulted in an increase in TGF-β R1 protein expression in the NAc compared to saline controls. This increase was specific for volitional cocaine intake as no change in expression was observed following a sensitizing regimen of experimenter-administered cocaine. These findings implicate TGF-β signaling as a novel potential therapeutic target for treating drug addiction.
Size-Selective and Epitaxial Electrochemical/Chemical Synthesis of Sulfur-Passivated Cadmium Sulfide Nanocrystals on Graphite

Cadmium metal nanocrystallites (NCs), prepared on graphite surfaces by electrochemical deposition, are employed as precursors to synthesize core−shell nanoparticles consisting of a crystalline cadmium sulfide (CdS) core and a sulfur or polysulfide shell. Core−shell NCs having a large CdS core (radii RCdS > 40 A) were prepared by exposing electrodeposited cadmium particles (RCd > 25 A) to H2S at 300 °C, whereas nanoparticles having a smaller CdS core (down to 17 A) were obtained from cadmium precursor particles via a Cd(OH)2 intermediate. For both large-core and small-core CdS nanoparticles, the addition of the sulfur capping layer (ranging in thickness from 5 to 30 A) occurred during exposure to H2S at 300 °C. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) data show that the synthesis of CdS NCs proceeded on a particle-by-particle basis such that the particle size and monodispersity of the CdS core were directly related to those of the cadmium metal precursor particle...