cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimization of real-time protocols for wireless packet-switched multimedia networks based on partially observed multivariate point processes

Next-generation wireless networks have been designed to transport integrated multimedia services based on a cellular extension of a packet-switched architecture using variants of the Internet protocol (IP). Each call, arriving to or active within the network, carries demand for one or more services in parallel, where each service type has a guaranteed quality of service (QoS). Admission of new calls to the wireless IP network (WIN) from the gateway of a wired network or from a mobile subscriber (MS) is allowed by call admission control (CAC) procedures. MS roaming among the nodes of the WIN is controlled by handoff procedures between base stations (BSs), or BS controllers (BSCs), and the MSs. Both handoff and CAC procedures are typically embedded in the media access control (MAC) and logical link control (LLC) layers of the WIN protocol stack. Performance metrics, such as, probabilities of call blocking and handoff, control procedures within the WIN protocol. Earlier published results by the author present a method for the performance analysis of wireless multimedia networks based on multivariate point-process (MVPP) models and their semi-martingale representations. The models describe the finite-horizon, transient behavior of the packet flows in integrated multimedia traffic. This paper extends the earlier work to focus on the optimization of real-time control procedures embedded in the WIN protocol stack. The point processes corresponding to the packet flow of each service type and to collateral random network events are decomposed into right-continuous, pure jump processes and predictable, integrated random rate processes. Control of the set of point processes describing WIN behavior is implemented through the construction of an absolutely continuous change of a reference probability measure on network events to a controlled measure. With respect to the constructed controlled measure, the integrated random rates in the semi-martingale representations of the network point processes explicitly depend on the parameters of the protocol mechanisms for packet access, routing, switching, handoff, power control, and other resource allocations. The MVPP control approach via constructed probability measure also supports predictive models of packet flows that incorporate measurement-based estimates of the probability distributions for voice, video, data, and other Internet traffic as well as radio path distortions. Optimization of the performance metrics, represented in terms of the MVPPs and the control parameters of candidate WIN protocols for multimedia services, are discussed for both partial and complete observations of network events. The models are further used to develop optimal, recursive stochastic filters of network state, based on partial or incomplete observations of packet flow dynamics.
Richtmyer–Meshkov instability on a low Atwood number interface after reshock

The Richtmyer–Meshkov instability after reshock is investigated in shock tube experiments at the Wisconsin Shock Tube Laboratory using planar laser imaging and a new high-speed interface-tracking technique. The interface is a mixture of helium and argon (50% each by volume) stratified over pure argon. This interface has an Atwood number of 0.29 and a near single-mode, two-dimensional, standing wave perturbation with an average amplitude of 0.35 cm and a wavelength of 19.4 cm. The incident shock wave of Mach number 1.92 accelerates the interface before reflecting from the shock tube end wall with M = 1.70 and accelerating the interface in the opposite direction. The amplitude growth after reshock is reported for variations in this initial amplitude, and several amplitude growth rate models are compared to the experimental growth rate after reshock. A new growth model is introduced, based on a model of circulation deposition calculated from one-dimensional gas dynamics parameters. This model compares well with the amplitude growth rate after reshock and the circulation over one-half wavelength of the interface after the first shock wave and after reshock.
A SVM-based quantitative fMRI method for resting-state functional network detection

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) aims to measure baseline neuronal connectivity independent of specific functional tasks and to capture changes in the connectivity due to neurological diseases. Most existing network detection methods rely on a fixed threshold to identify functionally connected voxels under the resting state. Due to fMRI non-stationarity, the threshold cannot adapt to variation of data characteristics across sessions and subjects, and generates unreliable mapping results. In this study, a new method is presented for resting-state fMRI data analysis. Specifically, the resting-state network mapping is formulated as an outlier detection process that is implemented using one-class support vector machine (SVM). The results are refined by using a spatial-feature domain prototype selection method and two-class SVM reclassification. The final decision on each voxel is made by comparing its probabilities of functionally connected and unconnected instead of a threshold. Multiple features for resting-state analysis were extracted and examined using an SVM-based feature selection method, and the most representative features were identified. The proposed method was evaluated using synthetic and experimental fMRI data. A comparison study was also performed with independent component analysis (ICA) and correlation analysis. The experimental results show that the proposed method can provide comparable or better network detection performance than ICA and correlation analysis. The method is potentially applicable to various resting-state quantitative fMRI studies.
Influence of aggregate size on solute transport as measured using computed tomography

Abstract Application of computed tomography (CT) using selected tracers for in-situ monitoring of solute transport in soil cores is useful for identifying the influence of soil structure on solute movement. The objective of this study was to apply X-ray CT techniques for measurement of solute breakthrough curves for selected soil aggregates and to determine the two-dimensional velocity distributions within soil cores. Soil material from the A horizon of a Mexico silt loam (Udollic Ochraqualf) was brought to the laboratory, passed through selected sieves, and packed in soil cores (76 mm × 76 mm). Solute breakthrough experiments were conducted using a 1 % KI solution with the cores held in an apparatus used to control the bulk fluid velocity. Shapes of average breakthrough curves measured using CT generally compared well with curves measured from effluent samples. Aggregate sizes of 0.50–1.00 and 1.00–2.00 mm gave dispersion coefficients of 0.37 and 1.13 mm 2 /s, respectively, using a pore water velocity of 0.11 mm/s. Aggregate sizes of 0.25–0.50 and 1.00–2.00 mm gave dispersion coefficients of 0.042 and 0.123 mm 2 /s, respectively, using a pore water velocity of 0.05 mm/s. Techniques were developed for calculating the pore water velocity distribution as a function of location within the soil core. Velocities can be calculated at approximately 17,000 locations within a 76-mm diameter soil core, thus achieving a level of detail not previously obtained.
Minimally Invasive Release of the Cubital Tunnel

Abstract Entrapment of the ulnar nerve that leads to cubital tunnel syndrome is a common and often disabling disease. Current surgical treatment options involve simple decompression, medial epicondylectomy, or a variety of anterior transposition procedures. Such techniques often involve extensive exposure of the ulnar nerve with prolonged periods of immobilization. Because of this, patients may often experience significant postoperative pain, scarring, and joint stiffness. In this paper, we describe a minimally invasive technique for treating cubital tunnel syndrome using endoscopic assistance. This procedure enables complete ulnar nerve decompression through one small incision. Direct visualization of all potential anatomic compression sites for a distance of 20 cm around the medial epicondyle is possible. This endoscopic approach to cubital tunnel release is appealing, especially to those patients with mild to moderate symptoms who may otherwise be reluctant to undergo a more involved conventional surgery. It decreases postoperative pain, reduces scarring, and promotes an earlier return to activity than traditional open techniques allow, due to a decreased immobilization period.
7-amido-1,8-naphthyridines as hydrogen bonding units for the complexation of guanine derivatives: The role of 2-alkoxyl groups in decreasing binding affinity

Abstract The unusually low stability of a hydrogen bonded complex between a guanosine derivative and a 7-amido-2-alkoxy-1,8-naphthyridine, containing the DAA-ADD motif, can be explained by a conformational/steric effect.
Cyclic Parenteral Nutrition During Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation

Two adolescents who underwent successful allogeneic bone marrow transplantation were nutritionally managed on a-fat-free cyclic parenteral nutrition (PN) regimen. Serum concentrations of prealbumin, albumin, and transferrin were prospectively evaluated to assess the efficacy of nutritional therapy. Both patients tolerated the cyclic PN metabolically. Serial albumin and transferrin concentrations varied slightly and were less sensitive indices of changing nutritional status. In contrast, prealbumin concentrations decreased uniformly during periods of metabolic stress. At the cessation of PN therapy, all serum proteins were within the normal range. Cyclic PN appears to be a safe, practical approach to the nutritional management of patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation.
Utilization of nanoplatelets in organic–inorganic hybrid separation materials: Separation advantages and formation challenges

Abstract Gas separation demands combined with the need to increase industrial process efficiency have encouraged the use of membranes as attractive alternatives to thermally driven separations. Despite the attractiveness of the membrane platform, intrinsic transport properties of pure polymeric membranes are limited by a tradeoff between productivity and selectivity. This tradeoff can be partially overcome by broadening the spectrum of materials to include hybrid composites (commonly referred to as mixed matrix membranes) of polymer and a dispersed phase of either inorganic or carbon materials. These materials offer processing options that combine the attractive, low cost processing approaches that are already available for the manufacture of pure polymer-based membranes. Hybrid membranes incorporating traditional zeolite materials, with unit aspect ratios ( A r ∼ 1), limit options to create thin selective layers. Recent studies have considered high aspect ratio ( A r > 10) sieving materials ( i.e. flakes or platelets) with significantly higher aspect ratio rather than traditional zeolites. These higher aspect ratios increase the tortuous path of permeation for rejected penetrants, so a low volume fraction of platelet material can be used to produce high performance membranes. In this report we will discuss the advantages of hybrid membranes containing nanoplatelet materials and the challenges associated with creating these advanced materials as well as the unique applications within an asymmetric hollow fiber membrane. We will also report on our initial attempts at producing nanoplatelet-polymer asymmetric hollow fiber membranes.
An Operant Procedure to Teach an Echolalic, Autistic Child to Answer Questions Appropriately'

An operant conditioning procedure to teach an autistic patient with rapid immediate echolalia to answer questions correctly was devised. The procedure involved positively reinforcing the patient immediately after a correct response and preventing incorrect responses. It is simple to implement and eliminates some of the structure and constraints inherent in previously described operant methods. This allows the procedure to be administered by a variety of therapeutic personnel and parents and in a variety of living situations.
Possible new genes as revealed by molecular analysis of a 5-kb Escherichia coli chromosomal region 5' to the rpsU-dnaG-rpoD macromolecular-synthesis operon.

Abstract The complete nucleotide sequence of 5-kb DNA fragment immediately 5′ to the rpsU-dnaG-rpoD macro-molecular-synthesis operon in Escherichia coli has been determined. It encodes for six open reading frames. Transcriptional and translational analysis have shown that three of them ( orf x , orf z1 and orf z2 ) are expressed in exponentially growing E. coli cells. The orf x , directly 5′ to the rpsU gene but transcribed in the opposite direction, may be part of the rpsU-dnaG-rpoD macromolecular-synthesis operon.
Cystic masses of the supraclavicular fossa: clinical features and diagnostic strategies☆

Abstract Purpose Cystic masses of the supraclavicular fossa (SCF) are uncommon. The diverse anatomical structures within the SCF create an extended differential diagnosis for any mass arising in the SCF. This study describes the presenting symptoms, radiologic findings, medical and surgical management, and posttreatment outcomes of various cystic mass presenting in the SCF. A review of the literature and diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms are also provided. Methods A retrospective study of an academic tertiary care head and neck cancer center was done. Seven cases of treated cystic masses of the SCF were identified. Diagnostic and therapeutic interventions are described. Results Cross-sectional imaging and needle aspiration or biopsy were obtained in all 7 cases. Aspirates accurately differentiated benign from malignant lesions in 6 cases, identified the offending pathology in 3 cases, and provided inoculum for culture-directed antibiotic therapy in 1 case. Surgical intervention was used for definitive therapy in 6 cases. All patients achieved complete resolution of signs and symptoms of the mass. Conclusions Effective evaluation of a cystic lesion within the SCF mandates a thorough understanding of the anatomy and differential diagnosis. A well-defined algorithm allows successful management of benign and malignant lesions in the SCF.
A Carpet Cloak Device for Visible Light

We report a cloak device that makes objects undetectable by visible light. It is designed using conformal mapping and is fabricated in silicon nitride waveguide on nano-porous silicon oxide substrate with very low refractive index.
On the density of B 2 -bases

A sequence A of positive integers is called a Sidon sequence or a B2-sequence if the pairwise sums are all distinct. If, in addition every non-zero integer appears in the set of differences we call A a B2-basis.
Effects of stretch or distention on phenylephrine-induced constriction of human coronary artery bypass grafts.

Objective: To determine the effects of grafting saphenous veins into the arterial circulation and to compare the responsiveness of saphenous veins and mammary arteries to vasoconstrictors (phenylephrine or potassium) and a vasodilator (the calcium antagonist isradipine). Design: Prospective, controlled, in vitro study. Setting: Laboratory facility in a university teaching hospital. Participants: Small excess segments of internal mammary arteries or saphenous veins obtained from patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Interventions: Vessel segments were cut into rings to measure isometric tension development in isolated tissue chambers. The law of LaPlace for a cylinder was applied to determine tensions in vitro corresponding with arterial or venous tensions in vivo or distending pressures ex vivo. Measurements and Main Results: Stretching saphenous vein rings from venous to arterial tensions reduced maximal phenylephrine-induced constriction but did not alter their dose response to phenylephrine, potassium, or isradipine. At arterial tensions, potassium, but not phenylephrine, was more potent in constricting mammary artery than saphenous vein; isradipine was more potent as a vasodilator of potassium-constricted mammary artery than saphenous vein. Maximal phenylephrine-induced or potassium-induced constriction was no different for either vessel at arterial tensions; however, prior distention of veins to tensions corresponding with pressures of 200 or 300 mmHg significantly (p < 0.01, Dunnett's test) reduced subsequent constriction. Conclusion: Phenylephrine may be more likely to constrict native internal mammary arteries than distended autogenous saphenous vein grafts in vivo because high-pressure distention of veins markedly inhibits their vasoreactivity.
Brief chronic effects of lithium administration on rat brain phosphoinositides and phospholipids.

Lithium is known to exert its biochemical action on cells and tissues by inhibiting the enzymic conversion of inositol monophosphates to inositol. However, it is not clear whether this inhibitory action may lead to changes in the de novo biosynthesis of phosphatidylinositol and its phosphorylated derivatives. This biosynthetic scheme may have an important bearing with regard to the receptor-mediated signal transduction mechanism involving hydrolysis of polyphosphoinositides and release of inositol trisphosphate as second messenger for mobilization of intracellular calcium. In this study, the effects of brief chronic lithium administration on metabolism of brain phosphoinositides and other phospholipids were examined using the radiotracer technique with 32Pi as precursor. Sprague Dawley rats that were treated with lithium (3-4 meq/kg body wt) twice daily for 2-6 days consistently indicated an increase in the labeling of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphates and a decrease in labeling of phosphatidylinositols and phosphatidylethanolamines. These phosphoiipid changes were found in both cortex and hippocampus and appeared to occur primarily in the synaptosomal fraction. Although the extent of the phosphoiipid changes could vary depending on both duration and dose levels of the lithium administered, these results demonstrated subtle effects of lithium on depressing the biosynthesis of phosphatidylinositol as well as phosphatidylethanolamine but perhaps a compensative increase in the synthesis of the phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphates.
Magnetic properties of single domain samarium cobalt nanoparticles

Samarium cobalt nanoparticles were prepared by ball milling under argon, both with and without surfactant. X-ray diffraction indicated a single SmCo/sub 5/ phase, with an average size of 25 nm from Debye-Scherrer analysis of the peak widths, but a broad size distribution based on TEM. SQUID magnetometry yielded the coercivity as a function of temperature between 4 and 300 K. Large coercivities (H/sub c/=2.1 T at 10 K) were observed in the bare particles, but the values were significantly reduced (H/sub c/=0.12 T at 5 K) for those coated with surfactant, indicating probable surface oxidation.
Functional chest pain of esophageal origin: hyperalgesia or motor dysfunction.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Many patients with functional (noncardiac) chest pain exhibit both hypersensitivity and motor dysfunction of the esophageal wall. We aimed to determine whether the sensory or motor dysfunction plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chest pain. METHODS: We performed graded balloon distentions of the esophagus using impedance planimetry in 16 consecutive patients with chest pain and otherwise normal cardiac and esophageal evaluations and in 13 healthy controls. In those patients who experienced chest pain with balloon distention, the test was repeated after atropine was given. Sensory and biomechanical parameters were measured. RESULTS: Balloon distention reproduced typical chest pain in 13/16 patients (81%) and at lower (p CONCLUSIONS: Even after relaxing the esophageal wall, most patients experienced chest pain and at lower sensory thresholds. Hence, hyperalgesia rather than motor dysfunction appears to be the predominant mechanism for functional chest pain of esophageal origin.
Backbone `Stretched;' Backbone `Curled': Conformational Similarity for Trp Dipeptides Parallels Fluorescence Emission and UVRR W10 Shifts

Tryptophan is a spectroscopic marker of protein environment because the fluorescence emission maximum of its residue, indole, is sensitive to both solvent and the immediate protein environment. The ease of measuring indole fluorescence accounts for the popularity of characterizing proteins via this spectroscopic technique. However, molecular level detail that accounts for emission shifts is lacking. Here we address the problem of emission shifts caused by amino acid conformational changes in aqueous solution by examining a variety of tryptophan dipeptides in the zwitterionic and anionic states. In addition to fluorescence emission, we employ UV resonance Raman (UVRR) spectroscopy, molecular dynamics simulation, and ab initio calculations. In our previous study of TrpGly and GlyTrp dipeptide species, a correlation between fluorescence emission shifts and UVRR W10 band shifts and W7 band intensity ratios were discovered. Nanosecond molecular dynamics simulation coupled with energy minimization showed that the dipeptide species adopt two basic conformations: one with a ‘stretched’ backbone or one with a ‘curled’ backbone. For TrpGly zwitterions in the stretched conformation, the terminal amine cation is 2.44 A from the pyrrole ring C3. The Stark effect predicts that a positive charge near the pyrrole ring blue shifts the emission maximum, which is observed. Remarkably, rotamers do not show a correlation with the dihedral angle, chi 2. Rather, the dihedral angle, chi 1, takes on three discrete values that account for the ‘stretched’ and ‘curled’ backbone conformations. We have continued in this manner to study Trp dipeptides with Glu, Lys, Tyr, His and Trp, showing that both the pattern of backbone interaction with the indole and the spectroscopic pattern of changes with dipeptide species persists in spite of residue variation in charge, aromaticity and size.
Sufficient conditions for the uniform convergence of a difference scheme for a singularly perturbed turning point problem

A number of results exist in the literature for singularly perturbed differential equations without turning points. In particular a number of difference schemes have been proposed that satisfy a stronger than normal convergence criteria known as uniform convergence. This guarantees that the schemes model the boundary layers well. We wish to examine whether these schemes will also be uniformly convergent, if the equation has turning points. To this end we derive sufficient conditions for uniform convergence which are satisfied not only by these schemes but by a more general class of schemes. We show that the rate of convergence is determined by a characteristic parameter of the problem which may be less than one. We confirm these theoretical results by numerical calculations.
Growth-condition dependent expression of Pasteurella haemolytica A1 outer membrane proteins, capsule, and leukotoxin☆

Pasteurella haemolytica, strain P1148 (biotype A, serotype 1) was grown under iron-rich and iron-restricted conditions both with and without serum, and the outer membrane protein (OMP), capsule, and leukotoxin production studied. OMPs were evaluated by SDS-PAGE and examined by immunoblot to identify antigens recognized by sera from P. haemolytica A1 convalescent and vaccinated cattle. Capsule production was evaluated using fluorescent antibody staining and rapid plate agglutination reaction. Leukotoxin production was measured by neutrophil 51Cr-release assay. Expression of specific OMPs, amount and antigenic character of capsule, and quantity of leukotoxin produced by P. haemolytica A1 varied in response to alterations in the growth media. Immunoblots indicated the immune response of convalescent calves differs from vaccinated calves, and convalescent calves produce antibodies to novel OMPs induced by growth in iron-restricted conditions.
Targeting transgene expression to antigen-presenting cells derived from lentivirus-transduced engrafting human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells.

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) represent an important target for the treatment of various blood disorders. As the source of critical cells within the immune system, genetic modification of HSCs can also be used to modulate immune responses. The effectiveness of HSC-mediated gene therapy largely depends on efficient gene delivery into long-term repopulating progenitors and targeted transgene expression in an appropriate progeny of the transduced pluripotent HSCs. Self-inactivating (SIN) lentiviral vectors have been demonstrated to be capable of transducing mitotically inactive cells, including HSCs, and accommodating a nonviral promoter to control the transgene expression in transduced cells. In this study, we constructed 2 SIN lentiviral vectors, EF.GFP and DR.GFP, to express the green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene controlled solely by the promoter of either a housekeeping gene EF-1a or the human HLA-DRa gene, which is selectively expressed in antigen-presenting cells (APCs). We demonstrated that both vectors efficiently transduced human pluripotent CD34 1 cells capable of engrafting nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID) mice. When the EF.GFP vector was used, constitutive high-level GFP expression was obtained in all the human HSC progeny detectable in NOD/SCID mice and in subsequent in vitro differentiation assays, indicating that engrafting human HSCs have been transduced. In contrast, the DR.GFP vector mediated transgene expression specifically in human HLA-DR 1 cells and highly in differentiated dendritic cells (DCs), which are critical in regulating immunity. Furthermore, human DCs derived from transduced and engrafted human cells potently stimulated allogeneic T-cell proliferation. This study demonstrated successful targeting of transgene expression to APCs/DCs after stable gene transduction of pluripotent HSCs. (Blood. 2002;99:399-408)
Synchrotron photoionization measurements of combustion intermediates: Photoionization efficiency and identification of C3H2 isomers

Photoionization mass spectrometry using tunable vacuum-ultraviolet synchrotron radiation is applied to the study of C3H2 sampled from a rich cyclopentene flame. The photoionization efficiency has been measured between 8.5 eV and 11.0 eV. Franck–Condon factors for photoionization are calculated from B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) characterizations of the neutral and cation of the two lowest-energy C3H2 isomers, triplet propargylene (HCCCH, prop-2-ynylidene) and singlet cyclopropenylidene (cyclo-HCCCH). Comparison of the calculated Franck–Condon envelopes with the experimental photoionization efficiency spectrum determines the adiabatic ionization energy of triplet propargylene to be (8.96 ± 0.04) eV. Ionization energies for cyclopropenylidene, propargylene and propadienylidene (H2CCC) calculated using QCISD(T) with triple-ζ and quadruple-ζ basis sets extrapolated to the infinite basis set limit are in excellent agreement with the present determination of the ionization energy for propargylene and with literature values for cyclopropenylidene and propadienylidene. The results suggest the presence of both propargylene and cyclopropenylidene in the cyclopentene flame and allow reanalysis of electron ionization measurements of C3H2 in other flames. Possible chemical pathways for C3H2 formation in these flames are briefly discussed.
Exposure of workers to carbaryl.

Since the carbamate pesticide, carbaryl (l-Naphthyl Nmethylcarbamate), was first registered for agricultural use in 1958 it has enjoyed a reputation as one of the safest compounds as far as hazard to man is concerned. While conducting exposure studies on pesticide applicators and formulating plant workers during the last several years our observations have led us to believe that workers pay very little attention to prevention of excess human exposure when working with this compound which they consider practically nonhazardous. This has been more apparent with formulating plant workers than with spraymen. We have also noticed that these same workers become more cautious and provide more protection to themselves when working with compounds which they consider to be highly toxic. Apparently their safety education has impressed them with the need for protection when exposed to highly toxic compounds but with little respect for any potential effects long-term exposure to less acutely toxic compounds may produce.
Estimation of human carrying capacity in rainforest areas

Tropical rainiorest areas are rapidly being settled as a result of continued growth of local populations, spontaneous migration from non-rainiorest areas and planned settlement projects undertaken by governments. National decision makers frequently view rainiorest settlement as a solution to the problems of other regions undergoing population growth, land tenure concentration, environmental degradation, agricultural mechanization and population displacement by development projects. Natural habitats are replaced by settlements that often cannot support the density of population expected of them. Inappropriate assumptions can lead to estimates that are orders of magnitude too high, such as an FAO calculation that Brazil could support over seven billion people if Amazonia were converted to intensive agriculture. Inadequate information on human carrying capacity allows planners to foster unrealistic expectations.
Visualization of heparin-binding proteins by ligand blotting with 125I-heparin.

Abstract A ligand-blotting procedure which allows detection of heparin-binding proteins is described. Crude commercial heparin was fractionated by chromatography on a column of human plasma low-density lipoproteins immobilized to Sepharose CL-4B. Chromatography yielded an unbound and a bound fraction of heparin, designated URH and HRH, respectively. The HRH fraction was reacted with the N-hydroxysuccinimidyl ester of 3-(p-hydroxyphenyl)propionic acid and then labeled with 125I. Proteins were separated by 3–20% pore-gradient gel electrophoresis, transferred to nitrocellulose, and then assayed for their ability to bind 125I-labeled HRH. Human plasma apolipoproteins B-100, B-48, and E of chylomicrons, very low-density lipoproteins, and low-density lipoproteins bound the 125I-labeled HRH; the radiolabeled heparin did not bind to serum albumin, ferritin, catalase, and lactate dehydrogenase. The ligand-blotting procedure should facilitate the purification of heparin-binding domains from these proteins and, moreover, may be applicable to the investigation of heparin-protein interactions in general.
Constraints on social dilemmas: An institutional approach

Many contemporary political and economic problems have attributes of social dilemmas. These dilemmas are simply characterized as settings in which individuals have a dominant strategy to not cooperate in collective action. However, this choice results in a Pareto-inferior outcome. Likewise, a dominated strategy exists that results in a Pareto-superior outcome. Where cooperation is absent, this problem has been described as ann-person prisoner's dilemma. This paper discusses the environmental problem of acid rain as such a social dilemma. Relying on a series of laboratory experimental settings, the argument is that many social dilemmas can be resolved through the construction of institutional mechanisms allowing for the coordination of the participant's joint strategies. Policy analysts in particular can profit from focusing on institutional solutions to social dilemmas.
Self-Assessment of Oral Communication Presentations in Food Science and Nutrition

ABSTRACT: Self-assessment allows learners to observe, analyze, and evaluate their own performances. Self-reflection allows the student to assess his or her communication skill level and progress against a standard. Additionally, the implementation of self-assessment through carefully prepared classroom experiences enables learners to manage their own learning and encourages the habit of lifelong learning. The objective of this study was to compare self-evaluation formats for assessment of an oral communication activity. Senior students in 2 sections of a 1-credit seminar course were videotaped while presenting 30-min oral presentations to the class. Students viewed their presentations and assessed their work using either a scoring rubric or a reflection assignment. Peer and instructor evaluations were also completed. Average scores by students and instructor were similar for rubric and reflection assessment methods. Oral evaluation scores by peer assessment were higher than by self- and instructor-assessment. Students were able to accurately describe the strengths and weaknesses of their presentations; however, comments from the reflection format were more thoughtful and provided more personal information in comparison to the scoring rubric. This study demonstrated the importance of reflective material such as student thoughts and feelings. Skills in reflective self-evaluation and documentation of their progress in oral communication will help students position themselves to develop their own academic and professional goals, provide feedback to instructors, and compile a record for future employers.
Association Between Peripheral Vascular Disease Indexes and the Numbers of Vessels Obstructed in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract Introduction The numbers of vessels obstructed in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) is an important prognostic factor. Pulse wave velocity (PWV), ankle-brachial index (ABI) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) are associated with increasing CAD risks; however, the association between the numbers of vessels obstructed and PWV, ABI and eGFR is not clear. Methods PWV, ABI and eGFR of 58 patients underwent coronary angiography for angina pectoris and acute coronary syndrome were measured. The variables that may be related to the number of vessels involved were analyzed using univariate linear regression followed by stepwise multivariate linear regression to determine the best-fit model. Results The average PWV, ABI and eGFR were 1523 ± 281 cm/sec, 1.16 ± 0.06 and 76.0 ± 16.7 mL/min/1.73 m 2 for patients with no CAD; 1496 ± 230 cm/sec, 1.14 ± 0.09 and 82.3 ± 12.4 mL/min/1.73 m 2 for 1-vessel CAD; 1733 ± 298 cm/sec, 1.07 ± 0.17 and 63.0 ± 26.3 mL/min/1.73 m 2 for 2-vessel CAD and 1996 ± 664 cm/sec, 0.99 ± 0.19 and 56.2 ± 27.3 mL/min/1.73 m 2 for 3-vessel CAD. Age, diabetes, hypertension, pulse pressure, serum creatinine, eGFR, ABI and PWV were correlated with the numbers of vessel obstructed in univariate regression. In stepwise multivariate linear regression, diabetes, PWV and ABI was independently linked to the numbers of vessels obstructed ( P = 0.021, 0.004 and 0.025). Conclusion Noninvasive indexes for atherosclerotic vascular disease including PWV and ABI are linked to the number of vessels obstructed in patients with CAD.
Interrupted cutting tests of cemented carbide tools coated by physical vapor deposition and chemical vapor deposition techniques

Abstract Refractory compound coatings prolong the life of cemented carbide inserts. The structure of these coatings is vastly different when the same coating is produced by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and physical vapor deposition (PVD) methods. TiC and HfN coatings were applied to cemented carbide tools by both CVD and PVD processes. The coated inserts were tested under interrupted cutting conditions using slotted bar tests. The CVD-coated inserts failed after a few (less than 100) cycles whereas the PVD-coated inserts lasted well past 2000 cycles without failure as did the uncoated inserts. PVD coatings have a much greater fracture toughness than CVD coatings due to their very fine-grained microstructure with a distribution of fine cavities which act as crack stoppers. In contrast, CVD coatings have a fully dense microstructure with a large grain size which does not have much fracture toughness. Another reason for the difference in behavior is the much lower deposition temperature (about 500°C) used in the PVD process as compared with the much higher deposition temperature (about 1000°C) used in the CVD process. Chemical attack of the cemented carbide substrate occurs at high deposition temperatures, thus weakening the area near the coating-substrate interface.
Assessing the Field of Media Management and Economics Research: Looking Back, Looking Forward

I am honored to be asked by my friend and colleague, Dr. German Arango, to provide a contribution to this special issue of Palabra Clave devoted to the topic of media markets and industries, which also will serve to relaunch the Latin American Media Management Association (LAMMA). It has been my privilege to visit Universidad de La Sabana twice in my career, and I have had the opportunity to visit with German and his colleagues at several international meetings over the years. This particular paper will examine the field of media management and economics research by looking at its past and considering the future. In addition to providing a historical overview, the paper will discuss the development of media management and economics as an area of academic research, consider the challenges the field is facing in the 21st century, and present ideas for a research agenda for the next decade. The goal is to provide both a historical perspective and a heuristic look at where the field is headed in terms of re- search and development. For this essay, I am drawing heavily from a paper I presented at the 2012 Research Symposium devoted to �Media Management and Economics Research in a Transmedia Environment,� which was held during the Broadcast Education Association�s annual convention. That paper was published in 2013, and the publisher has given me permission to cite text from that work in this venue (Albarran, 2013).
TPO1, a member of a novel protein family, is developmentally regulated in cultured oligodendrocytes

Abstract: Although the myelin membrane contains only a small set of major proteins, more sensitive assays indicate the presence of a plethora of uncharacterized proteins. We have used an antibody perturbation approach to reversibly block the differentiation of prooligodendroblasts into myelinating cells, and, in combination with a differential screening procedure, identified novel mRNAs that are activated during this period. One cDNA, TPO1, recognizes a 5.5-kb mRNA that is strongly up-regulated in oligodendrocytes after release of the differentiation block and that is expressed at high levels in brain tissue during active myelination. This cDNA represents at least two mRNAs differing from each other in their 5′-termini. The TPO1 cDNA contains an open reading frame of 1,380 bp, encoding a protein of 51.8 kDa with a predicted pl of 9.1 that contains two regions homologous to nonclassic zinc finger motifs. Subcellular localization studies suggest the enriched presence of TPO1 in spherical structures along the major cytoplasmic processes of oligodendrocytes. TPO1, along with homologues expressed in testis, placenta, and PC12 cells, form a novel family of proteins with multiple hydrophobic domains possibly serving as membrane spanning regions. We postulate that in oligodendrocytes, TPO1 encodes a protein factor involved in myelin biogenesis.
Phosphoryltyrosyl mimetics in the design of peptide-based signal transduction inhibitors.

The central roles played by protein–tyrosine kinase (PTK)-dependent signal transduction in normal cellular regulation and homeostasis have made inappropriate or aberrant functions of certain of these pathways contributing factors to a variety of diseases, including several cancers. For this reason, development of PTK signaling inhibitors has evolved into an important approach toward new therapeutics. Since in these pathways phosphotyrosyl (pTyr) residues provide unique and defining functions either by their creation under the catalysis of PTKs, their recognition and binding by protein modules such as SH2 and phosphotyrosyl binding (PTB) domains, or their destruction by protein–tyrosine phosphatases, pTyr mimetics provide useful general starting points for inhibitor design. Important considerations in the development of such pTyr mimetics include enzymatic stability (particularly toward PTPs), high affinity recognition by target pTyr binding proteins, and good cellular bioavailability. Although small molecule, nonpeptide inhibitors may be ultimate objectives of inhibitor development, peptides frequently serve as display platforms for pTyr mimetics, which afford useful and conceptually straightforward starting points in the development process. Reported herein is a limited overview of pTyr mimetic development as it relates to peptide-based agents. Of particular interest are recent findings that highlight potential limitations of peptides as display platforms for the identification of small molecule leads. One conclusion that results from this work is that while peptide-based approaches toward small molecule inhibitor design are often intellectually satisfying from a structure-based perspective, extrapolation of negative findings to small molecule, nonpeptide contexts should be undertaken with extreme caution. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 60: 32–44, 2001
Contribution of the SirA regulon to biofilm formation in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium

Orthologues of the Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. typhimurium) BarA/SirA two-component system are important for biofilm formation and virulence in many γ-Proteobacteria. In S. typhimurium, SirA activates the csrB and csrC carbon storage regulatory RNAs and the virulence gene regulators hilA and hilC. The regulatory RNAs antagonize the activity of the CsrA protein, allowing translation of those same virulence genes, and inhibiting the translation of flagellar genes. In this report, it was determined that SirA and the Csr system also control the fim operon that encodes type 1 fimbriae. sirA orthologues in other bacterial species, and the fim operon of S. typhimurium, are known to play a role in biofilm formation; therefore, all members of the S. typhimurium sirA regulon were tested for in vitro biofilm production. A sirA mutant, a csrB csrC double mutant, and a fimI mutant, were all defective in biofilm formation. Conversely, inactivation of flhDC increased biofilm formation. Therefore, SirA activates csrB, csrC and the fim operon to promote biofilm formation. In turn, csrB and csrC promote the translation of the fim operon, while at the same time inhibiting the translation of flagella, which are inhibitory to biofilm formation.
Numerical simulation of solid state sintering

Abstract This paper discusses in detail the development of a numerical model capable of simulating microstructural evolution and macroscopic deformation during sintering of complex powder compacts. The model based on the kinetic Monte Carlo (Potts) approach simulates grain growth, vacancy diffusion, and pore annihilation at grain boundaries, which is responsible for densification. Results of 2D simulations for perfect close-packed and random starting configurations are presented and discussed. The microstructural evolution is used to obtain the sintering stress––the macroscopic stress that is equivalent to the microstructural driving force for deformation.
Myeloproliferative defects following targeting of the Drf1 gene encoding the mammalian diaphanous-related formin mDia1

Rho GTPase-effector mammalian diaphanous (mDia)-related formins assemble nonbranched actin filaments as part of cellular processes, including cell division, filopodia assembly, and intracellular trafficking. Whereas recent efforts have led to thorough characterization of formins in cytoskeletal remodeling and actin assembly in vitro, little is known about the role of mDia proteins in vivo. To fill this knowledge gap, the Drf1 gene, which encodes the canonical formin mDia1, was targeted by homologous recombination. Upon birth, Drf1+/- and Drf1-/- mice were developmentally and morphologically indistinguishable from their wild-type littermates. However, both Drf1+/- and Drf1-/- developed age-dependent myeloproliferative defects. The phenotype included splenomegaly, fibrotic and hypercellular bone marrow, extramedullary hematopoiesis in both spleen and liver, and the presence of immature myeloid progenitor cells with high nucleus-to-cytoplasm ratios. Analysis of cell surface markers showed an age-dependent increase in the percentage of CD11b+-activated and CD14+-activated monocytes/macrophages in both spleen and bone marrow in Drf1+/- and Drf1-/- animals. Analysis of the erythroid compartment showed a significant increase in the proportion of splenic cells in S phase and an expansion of erythroid precursors (TER-119+ and CD71+) in Drf1-targeted mice. Overall, knocking out mDia1 expression in mice leads to a phenotype similar to human myeloproliferative syndrome (MPS) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). These observations suggest that defective DRF1 expression or mDia1 function may contribute to myeloid malignancies and point to mDia1 as an attractive therapeutic target in MDS and MPS.
URBANIZATION AND NUTRIENT RETENTION IN FRESHWATER RIPARIAN WETLANDS

Urbanization can degrade water quality and alter watershed hydrology, with profound effects on the structure and function of both riparian wetlands (RWs) and aquatic ecosystems downstream. We used freshwater RWs in Fairfax County, Virginia, USA, as a model system to examine: (1) the effects of increasing urbanization (indexed by the percentage of impervious surface cover [%ISC] in the surrounding watershed) on nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations in surface soils and plant tissues, soil P saturation, and soil iron (Fe) chemistry; and (2) relationships between RW soil and plant nutrient chemistries vs. the physical and biotic integrity of adjacent streams. Soil total P and NaOH-extractable P (representing P bound to aluminum [Al] and Fe hydrous oxides) varied significantly but nonlinearly with %ISC (r2 = 0.69 and 0.57, respectively); a similar pattern was found for soil P saturation but not for soil total N. Relationships were best described by second-order polynomial equations. Riparian wetlands...
Promoting Mathematical Communication in the Classroom: Two Preservice Teachers' Conceptions and Practices

Recent reforms in mathematics education have encouraged teachers to engage their students in various forms of communication. Scholars have begun to consider questions such as: In what ways do teachers facilitate and guide classroom discourse? How does the quality of students' reflections impact the development of rich mathematical understanding? In order to address these and similar questions, the authors provide a framework of four constructs that can be used to analyze various forms of classroom communication: uni-directional communication, contributive communication, reflective communication, and instructive communication. Throughout the article,the authors both develop and use these constructs as they consider two preservice teachers concepts of communication and their corresponding classroom practices.