cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Design and development of a multimode waveguide corrugated horn antenna using 3D printing technology and its comparison with aluminium-based prototype

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology based antenna structures have many promising applications. In this study, a triple mode circular waveguide horn antenna with corrugated chokes is presented. In this antenna configuration, three individual modes consisting of TE 11 , TM 01 , and TE 21 are generated in a single structure. The horn antenna prototypes used precision milling and 3D printing process for the aluminium and 3D printed horn antenna prototypes, respectively. The aluminium prototype is used as a reference antenna for comparing the 3D printed horn prototype. For the 3D printed antenna, Polycarbonate - Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (PC-ABS) material is used and later coated with conductive silver ink. Simulation and aluminium based prototype antennas achieve a common bandwidth of 7.45-8.00GHz for all the three modes. However for the 3D printed antenna prototype, the achieved bandwidth is from 7.40 to 7.89GHz. The aluminium and 3D printed horn prototypes were also tested for radiation pattern quality. While aluminium-based prototype agrees closely with the simulation results, the 3D printed horn shows a reduced gain, higher cross-polarisation levels while keeping the pattern beamwidths similar to the simulated and aluminium-based horn prototypes.
The Social Context of Adolescent Co-Use of Cigarillos and Marijuana Blunts

ABSTRACTBackground: The use of cigarillos for smoking as a tobacco product and for making marijuana blunts is increasing among adolescents. Previous research has documented the co-use of these prod...
Comparing inhalation and ingestion exposure to chemical contaminants and odorants in mixtures

Chemical spills polluting drinking water are often mixtures with each chemical having unique characteristics for partitioning, toxicity, and odour leading to significant differences in human risk exposures. A 2014 chemical spill of crude (4-methylcyclohexyl)methanol (MCHM) resulted in a $126 million USD fine to the water utility. The spill consisted of at least ten chemicals including 34% cis - and 60% trans -4-MCHM and 0.7% cis - and 0.3% trans -methyl-4-methylcyclohexanecarboxylate (MMCHC). While a very minor component, trans- MMCHC contributed substantially to odour because of its high Henry9s Law Constant, 2.23 × 10 −2 at 40 °C showering, and low odour threshold concentration (OTC), 0.02 ppb-v, air. Using USEPA risk assessment parameters in a 15-minute shower model with influent concentration of 42 ppb-aq cis- and trans -4-MMCHC, representative of initial spill concentrations in the distribution system, adult ingestion and inhalation for trans -MMCHC were almost equal, 4.00 × 10 −4 and 4.26 × 10 −4 mg/kg/d, respectively. For children, inhalation doses exceeded ingestion dose: 1.72 × 10 −3 mg/kg/d versus 0.93 × 10 −3 mg/kg/day trans -MMCHC. This exposure assessment with varying OTC for crude MCHM chemicals reinforces considering chemical, physical, and biological properties of all chemicals in the spill. Consumers aware of their exposure to chemicals in drinking water lost consumer confidence; the water utility was required to compensate individuals and businesses for financial losses.
The Office Diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis

(2000). The Office Diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis. American Orthoptic Journal: Vol. 50, No. 1, pp. 64-75.
Motor neuronopathy and myelopathy in Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (P6.140)

Objective: To describe a novel clinical phenotype of Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) associated with mt.14484 T>C mutation. Background: LHON is a maternally inherited mitochondriopathy, typically manifesting as a painless subacute bilateral visual loss in early adulthood, caused by DNA point mutations at sites 3460, 11778 and 14484 that encode complex 1 of the respiratory chain. LHON plus syndromes include MS-like syndrome, tremor, parkinsonism, dystonia, peripheral neuropathies, and cardiac arrhythmias. Design/Methods: We describe a 48-year-old female who presented with a two year history of progressive bilateral painless vision loss. She has extensive maternal family history of idiopathic early onset blindness. At age 47, the patient began to have bilateral lower extremity weakness progressing to gait dysfunction, falls, and eventually becoming bed-bound. Bowel and bladder functions remained intact. Sensory symptoms were absent. Examination revealed no funduscopic abnormalities, counting fingers visual acuity, proximal and distal weakness in legs (R>L), brisk knee reflexes, absent ankle reflexes, and upgoing toes. The patient’s vision and upper extremity strength worsened over time. Results: Vitamin B12, Folate, Copper, Vitamin E, HIV, HTLV 1 and 2, ACE, NMO antibody and serum paraneoplastic antibody testing were all normal or negative. CK was 307 U/L (normal up to 223). Electrodiagnosis revealed chronic neurogenic changes with ongoing denervation in right leg muscles, chronic neurogenic changes with fasciculations in the left vastus lateralis, and increased insertional activity with fibrillations in the lumbosacral paraspinal muscles. MRI of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine demonstrated diffuse abnormal increased T2 signal throughout the spine, the majority of which appears centered within the lateral corticospinal tracts. mtDNA panel whole genome sequencing demonstrated mt-ND6 mt.14484 T>C homoplasmic point mutation. Conclusions: We present the first report of LHON plus motor neuronopathy related to mt.14484 T>C mutation, expanding the clinical phenotypes of LHON to include motor neuron pathology. Disclosure: Dr. Sawyer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Turner has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kushlaf has nothing to disclose.
When Fathers are Perceived to Share in the Maternal Decision to Breastfeed: Outcomes from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II.

Objectives The present study investigates the influence of joint feeding preferences of both the mother and father on initiation and duration of breastfeeding. Methods Data from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II was analyzed. Female participants in a national consumer opinion panel were followed from pregnancy through 1 year postpartum, and were asked about infant feeding practices. We examined the association between maternal prenatal perception of the expectant father’s breastfeeding preferences and breastfeeding outcomes (initiation, duration of exclusive breastfeeding and any breastfeeding) and whether concordance between the parents’ infant feeding preferences influenced breastfeeding. Results Mothers who perceived that the father preferred exclusive breastfeeding (vs. no preference) were more likely to initiate breastfeeding [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.9; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.0–3.7], and they had a lower hazard of stopping exclusive and any breastfeeding at any given time [exclusive breastfeeding: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 0.8; 95% CI 0.6–0.9; any breastfeeding: aHR = 0.6; 95% CI 0.5–0.7]. When both the mother and the father preferred exclusive breastfeeding, the hazard of breastfeeding cessation at any given time was lowest (exclusive breastfeeding: aHR = 0.4; 95% CI 0.3–0.5; any breastfeeding: aHR = 0.4; 95% CI 0.3–0.5). The risk of breastfeeding cessation remained lower even when only the father preferred exclusive breastfeeding. Conclusions for Practice Mothers tend to breastfeed for a longer duration when they perceive that the expectant father prefers exclusive breastfeeding and, even more so, when both parental preferences for exclusive breastfeeding concur. Efforts are needed to involve expectant fathers in breastfeeding decision-making and education to achieve breastfeeding success.
Planning graph heuristics for selecting objectives in over-subscription planning problems

Partial Satisfaction or Over-subscription Planning problems arise in many real world applications. Applications in which the planning agent does not have enough resources to accomplish all of their given goals, requiring plans that satisfy only a subset of them. Solving such partial satisfaction planning (PSP) problems poses several challenges, from new models for handling plan quality to efficient heuristics for selecting the most beneficial goals. In this paper, we extend planning graph-based reachability heuristics with mutex analysis to overcome complex goal interactions in PSP problems. We start by describing one of the most general PSP problems, the PSP NET BENEFIT problem, where actions have execution costs and goals have utilities. Then, we present AltWlt, our heuristic approach augmented with a multiple goal set selection process and mutex analysis. Our empirical studies show that AltWlt is able to generate the most beneficial solutions, while incurring only a small fraction of the cost of other PSP approaches.
Behavior Therapy in the Treatment of Childhood Disorders

The past two decades have witnessed the rapid evolution of an empirically based technology for treating a wide range of behavior disorders in children and youth. The conceptual emphasis in applied behavior analysis has resulted in repeated redefinitions of this technology, but in logical and predictable directions.
Update on the Management of Diabetic Neuropathy

IN BRIEF Distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) and diabetic autonomic neuropathies, particularly cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN), are prevalent diabetes complications with high morbidity, mortality, and amputation risks. The diagnosis of DSPN is principally a clinical one based on the presence of typical symptoms combined with symmetrical, distal-to-proximal stocking-glove sensory loss. CAN is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality, arrhythmia, silent ischemia, major cardiovascular events, and myocardial dysfunction. Screening for CAN in high-risk patients is recommended. Symptoms of gastroparesis are nonspecific and do not correspond with its severity. Diagnosis of gastroparesis should exclude other factors well documented to affect gastric emptying such as hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and certain medications. There is a lack of treatment options targeting the neuropathic disease state. Managing neuropathic pain also remains a challenge. Given the high risk of addiction, abuse, psychosocial issues, and mortality, opioids are not recommended as first-, second-, or third-line agents for treating painful DSPN.
(Quick)Silver Masters: Modern and Post-Modern Revivals of Quattrocento Chivalric Poems

ABSTRACTModern revivals of the ‘golden’ age of Italian chivalric epic are widely studied. This essay addresses the less explored legacy of fifteenth-century chivalric poems, traditionally regarded ...
Saddle-Flow Dynamics for Distributed Feedback-Based Optimization

This letter develops a distributed saddle-flow algorithm to regulate the output of a networked system—modeled as static linear map—to the solution of a constrained convex optimization problem. The algorithm is “feedback-based”, in the sense that measurements of the network output are leveraged in the saddle-flow updates to avoid a complete (oracle-based) knowledge of the network map. In the distributed architecture, each actuator has access to only a subset of measurements; nevertheless, supported by a connected communication graph, a distributed protocol is implemented to achieve consensus on pertinent dual variables associated with network-level output constraints and, therefore, on the solution of the constrained problem. Using a LaSalle argument, we show that under an easily satisfiable linear matrix inequality condition the proposed algorithm converges to an optimal primal–dual solution. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in a voltage regulation problem for power systems with high penetration of renewable generation.
Reuben J. Silver (1924−2018).

Reuben J. Silver passed away on April 11, 2018, in Wilmington, North Carolina, his home for the last 18 years. He was born to Hyman Jonah Silver and Shaynah Volk Silver in Medway, Massachusetts, on September 12, 1924. Reuben was nationally recognized for his contributions to the professional practice of psychology. Many of his contributions were made when legal recognition for psychology was still in its infancy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
ngPalmPISC: A Sensitive Method for Proteome-wide Characterization of S-acylation

Protein S-acylation (palmitoylation) reversibly modulates protein localization, and thus regulates protein activity, stability, and complex formation. Accumulating evidence suggests that S-acylatio...
Return to the Sea: The Evolution of Marine Mammals

Early Cetacea are classified as Archaeoceti (six families), and their fossils reveal the morphological and functional evolution of early, terrestrial Artiodactyla to fully aquatic Cetacea over 15 million years during the Eocene (~52 Mya). The evolution of modern Cetacea (Neoceti: Mysticeti and Odontoceti) began in the late Eocene (~37 Mya). As with Mysticeti, late Eocene Dorudontidae were a likely sister group of early Odontoceti. The evolution of Sirenia began in the early Eocene (56–48 Mya). Fossil pinnipedimorphs only extend to the late Oligocene (27–25 Mya). Morphological and molecular evidence support a monophyletic origin for the three extant families of pinnipeds (Otariidae, Odobenidae, and Phocidae) within the taxonomic order Carnivora. The earliest fossils of Enhydra sp. are from early Pleistocene (2.6–1.8 Mya). There is no fossil record to document the evolution of the physiological adaptations that occur in living marine mammals. The dive response and enhanced oxygen stores, which increased the aerobic dive duration, and blubber for thermal insulation may have been early adaptations in each of the marine mammal lineages. The exception are fur seals and the sea otter, which rely on waterproof fur. Adaptations to avoid the detrimental effects of pressure during deep diving may have come later.
Prostaglandins and the renal antihypertensive and natriuretic endocrine function.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the intrarenal prostaglandins and a postulated role for them in the regulation of blood volume and systemic blood pressure. Renal cortex is capable of conjugating various steroids to inactive metabolites. By contrast, the renal papilla is unable to oxidize various substitutes and is unique in that, like the red cell, it is devoid of mitochondria and possesses only the capacity for a high rate of aerobic and anaerobic glycolysis. The outer medulla displays both oxidative and glycolytic pathways and exhibits a marked Pasteur effect. With regard to the humoral activity of the kidney, it is well recognized that the renal cortical juxtaglomerular complex releases the enzyme rennin in response to a volume-depleting stimulus. Renin converts angiotensinogen to angiotensin I, which is in turn converted to angiotensin II in the lung. Angiotensin II stimulates aldosterone production leading to sodium and water retention offsetting the initial volume-depleting stimulus. Another renal hormone is erythropoietin, which stimulates erythropoiesis in response to lowered oxygen tension. The chapter also discusses the kidney hormones, which are prostaglandins and are synthesized in the interstitial cell of the renal papilla and have major actions in the regulation of renal blood flow, systemic blood pressure, and sodium and water excretion.
The Narrow Margin: Convention as Deception

This chapter reads Richard Fleischer’s The Narrow Margin as a self-reflexive, quasi-modernist noir film that works to destabilize many of the thematic and stylistic tropes and conventions that have come to be associated with film noir. Building on George M. Wilson’s work on cinematic point of view and Doug Pye’s work on “suppressive narrative,” I situate the film in a larger tradition of similarly self-reflexive films in studio-era Hollywood. I show how the film uses stereotypical noir conventions, such as the femme fatale figure and chiaroscuro lighting to deliberately mislead the viewer about the nature of both individual character motivations as well as the broader narrative situation. In doing, I argue, the film calls attention to the constructed nature of these tropes and challenges the audience’s tendency to draw quick, unthinking conclusions based on received truths and stereotypes.
Effect of sublingual immunotherapy on airway inflammation and immune imbalance in children with allergic asthma induced by dermatophagoides dust mite

Objective To explore the effect of sublingual immunotherapy on airway inflammation and immune imbalance in children with allergic asthma induced by dermatophagoides dust mite. Methods The clinical data of 150 children with allergic asthma caused by dust mites treated at our hospital from December, 2014 to December, 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. They were divided into a control group (n=78) and an observation group (n=72) according to different treatments. The control group were treated with glucocorticoid, and the observation group with glucocorticoid and dermatophagoides farinae drops. Results After 1 year’s treatment, the scores of day and night asthma symptoms were lower than those before the treatment in the two groups, and were so in the observation group than in the control group (P 0.05). After 1 years’ treatment, the levels of SIg G4 and INF-γ of dust mites was higher than those before the treatment in both groups; and the levels of SIg G4 and INF-γ of dust mites were significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). The FeNO and IL-4 decreased after the treatment in both groups, and decreases more significantly in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). The total score of quality of life was significantly higher in the observation group than in the control group (P< 0.05). Conclusions Sublingual immunotherapy for children with dermatophagoides allergic asthma can effectively improve the clinical symptoms, reduce the inflammatory response, control the number of asthma attacks, ensure the immune indidcators in a balanced state, and promote the children’s recovery. The value of the treatment is affirmed. Key words: Dermatophagoides dust mite allergy asthma; Children; Dermatophagoides farinae drops; Glucocorticoid stimulating agent; Inflammation; Immune indicators
Dynamic Control of Region of Attraction Using Variable Inductor for Stabilizing DC Microgrids With Constant Power Loads

DC microgrids with power electronic converter units are prone to become unstable due to the well-known negative impedance characteristic of constant power loads. For such systems, the global stability cannot be assumed. It is known that the transient stability of the system can be degraded by large and fast disturbances due to the reduced stability region. As a result, the system gets to operate outside the stability region and becomes unstable even if the steady-state operating point is in the stable region. To overcome this problem, a dynamic stabilizer that controls the stability region using variable inductor is proposed to guarantee stable operation during transient-states. The proposed scheme is straightforward and can be implemented with minimal power consumption. Furthermore, it is robust for parameter variation. The feasibility of the proposed method is verified experimentally.
Opto-Thermomechanical Nanoprinting and Nanorepairing

A new printing method based on opto-thermomechanical (OTM) transfer of nanoparticles with a continuous-wave laser is introduced. The OTM method allows for not only additive nanoprinting but also nanorepairing.
Drug-Nutrition Interactions in Infectious Diseases

The interactions between drugs and nutrition can be numerous with potential impact on health outcomes. Several subtypes of drug-nutrition interactions exist, each of which may influence patients receiving medication for infectious diseases. After defining drug-nutrition interactions and their clinical relevance and mechanistic structures, this chapter will describe the various types of drug-nutrition interactions using widely available antimicrobial agents as examples.
Extracellular sulfite is protective against reactive oxygen species and antibiotic stress in Shewanella oneidensis MR-1

In this study, we investigated the extracellular reactive sulfur species produced by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 during growth. The results showed that sulfite is the major extracellular sulfur metabolite released to the growth medium under both aerobic and anaerobic growth conditions. Exogenous sulfite at physiological concentrations protected S. oneidensis MR-1 from hydrogen peroxide toxicity and enhanced tolerance to the beta-lactam antibiotics cefazolin, meropenem, doripenem and ertapenem. These findings suggest that the release of extracellular sulfite is a bacterial defence mechanism that plays a role in the mitigation of environmental stress.
Ecological correlates of fecal corticosterone metabolites in female Greater Sage-Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus)

Measurement of physiological responses can reveal effects of ecological conditions on an animal and correlate with demographic parameters. Ecological conditions for many animal species have deterio...
Polarization Enhanced Deep Optical Dipole Trapping of Λ -Cooled Polar Molecules

We demonstrate loading of SrF molecules into an optical dipole trap (ODT) via in-trap $\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Lambda}}$-enhanced gray molasses cooling. We find that this cooling can be optimized by a proper choice of relative ODT and cooling beam polarizations. In this optimized configuration, we observe molecules with temperatures as low as $14(1)\text{ }\text{ }\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{K}$ in traps with depths up to $570\text{ }\text{ }\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{K}$. With optimized parameters, we transfer $\ensuremath{\sim}5%$ of molecules from our radio-frequency magneto-optical trap into the ODT, at a density of $\ensuremath{\sim}2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{9}\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$, a phase space density of $\ensuremath{\sim}2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}7}$, and with a trap lifetime of $\ensuremath{\sim}1\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{s}$.
Surface functionalization of MXenes

MXenes, a new family of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides and nitrides, have received great research attention in diverse applications, including biomedicine, sensing, catalysis, energy storage and conversion, adsorption, and membrane-based separation, owing to their extraordinary physicochemical properties and various chemical compositions. In recent years, many surface functionalization strategies, such as surface-initiated polymerization and single heteroatom doping, have been cleverly developed to expand the potential of MXenes in different fields. This article reviews and puts into perspective the recent advances in MXene surface functionalization and various applications of the modified MXenes. The effect of surface functionalization on MXene properties (such as electronic, magnetic, mechanical, optical, and hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity) is discussed. Potential applications of pristine and functionalized MXenes in different fields are discussed. Finally, challenges and future directions in MXene surface modification are examined.
Semigroup Methods in Mathematical Physics

The theory of one-parameter semigroups of operators in Banach spaces is concerned with the study of the operator-valued exponential function, its representation and properties, in infinite-dimensional function spaces. The theory can also be considered as a generalization of Stone’s theorem33 on the representation of one-parameter groups of operators in Hilbert space. The theory of semigroups of operators had its origin in 1936, when Hille10 investigated certain concrete semigroups of operators. In 1948, Hille11 published his treatise on semigroups of operators; and in the 1950’s this treatise stimulated a considerable amount of research on semigroups and their applications. In 1957, Hille and Phillips12 published an extensive revision of Hille’s treatise, and at the present time their treatise is the bible of workers in semigroup theory. In addition to the Hille—Phillips treatise, semigroups of operators are the subject of lecture notes by the author2 and Yosida40; chapters on semigroups of operators can be found in the books of Dunford and Schwartz,5 Maurin,20 and Riesz and Sz.Nagy.30 We also refer to the papers of Phillips,27,29 the first of which presents a survey of semigroup theory, while the second gives a very readable introduction to semigroup theory and its applications in the theory of partial differential equations.
Automated parameter estimation for biological models using Bayesian statistical model checking

Probabilistic models have gained widespread acceptance in the systems biology community as a useful way to represent complex biological systems. Such models are developed using existing knowledge of the structure and dynamics of the system, experimental observations, and inferences drawn from statistical analysis of empirical data. A key bottleneck in building such models is that some system variables cannot be measured experimentally. These variables are incorporated into the model as numerical parameters. Determining values of these parameters that justify existing experiments and provide reliable predictions when model simulations are performed is a key research problem. Domain experts usually estimate the values of these parameters by fitting the model to experimental data. Model fitting is usually expressed as an optimization problem that requires minimizing a cost-function which measures some notion of distance between the model and the data. This optimization problem is often solved by combining local and global search methods that tend to perform well for the specific application domain. When some prior information about parameters is available, methods such as Bayesian inference are commonly used for parameter learning. Choosing the appropriate parameter search technique requires detailed domain knowledge and insight into the underlying system. Using an agent-based model of the dynamics of acute inflammation, we demonstrate a novel parameter estimation algorithm by discovering the amount and schedule of doses of bacterial lipopolysaccharide that guarantee a set of observed clinical outcomes with high probability. We synthesized values of twenty-eight unknown parameters such that the parameterized model instantiated with these parameter values satisfies four specifications describing the dynamic behavior of the model. We have developed a new algorithmic technique for discovering parameters in complex stochastic models of biological systems given behavioral specifications written in a formal mathematical logic. Our algorithm uses Bayesian model checking, sequential hypothesis testing, and stochastic optimization to automatically synthesize parameters of probabilistic biological models.
Automatic Reconstruction and Generation of Structured Hexahedral Mesh for Non-planar Bifurcations in Vascular Networks

Abstract Unstructured meshes are widely used to delineate the complex geometry of blood vessels in computational fluid dynamics simulation. However, structured parametric meshes can better represent complex geometries with lower grid density thus enabling faster and more precise computations. Current mesh generation methods require user interaction and cannot be used for automatic generation of parametric mesh representations of vascular networks. Our aim is to present a fully automatic algorithm for parametric mesh representation of vascular networks from subject-specific medical images. The methodology requires no user interaction, can create volumetric meshes for non-planar bifurcations and offers full control over the local mesh resolution at the surface and the lumen of the blood vessels. We demonstrate the reliability of our algorithm in terms of mesh quality by evaluating scaled Jacobian and equiangular skewness. The novel method was applied in case studies to reconstruct real image data for the cerebral angioarchitecture. Accurate subject-specific representations of vascular trees are necessary to perform organ-wide hemodynamics for personalized surgical planning of vascular disease.
An Evaluation of the Use of a Virtual World Experiential Case Study to Teach Information Systems Auditing Skills

The paper presents the results of student feedback on the use of an experiential case study of the site audit of a technology and data center constructed in the 3-D virtual world of Second Life. The unique aspect of this case study was that the entire audit was conducted in a virtual world environment. The results of the assessment were extremely favorable and the exercise was recommended to be utilized in future classes. The results include both quantitative as well as qualitative feedback.
The purified 14-kilodalton envelope protein of vaccinia virus produced in Escherichia coli induces virus immunity in animals.

Abstract Vaccinia virus (VV) was successfully used as a live vaccine to eradicate smallpox, but the nature of viral proteins involved in eliciting viral immunity has not yet been identified. A potential candidate is a 14-kDa VV envelope protein that is involved in virus penetration at the level of virus-cell fusion, in cell-cell fusion late in infection, and in virus dissemination. The 14-kDa envelope protein has been produced in Escherichia coli, with properties similar to those of the native protein found in the virus particle and in infected cells (C. Lai, S. Gong, and M. Esteban, J. Biol. Chem. 256:22174-22180, 1990). In this investigation, we showed that mice immunized with purified VV 14-kDa protein synthesized in E. coli in the form of a monomer or a trimer develop high-titer neutralizing antibodies and are protected when challenged with lethal doses of wild-type VV. Our findings demonstrate that it is possible to confer protection against VV through immunization with the 14-kDa envelope protein.
Probabilistic competing failure analysis in body sensor networks

Body Sensor Networks (BSNs) have been developed to provide real-time, ubiquitous health monitoring and diagnosis for human beings. Due to their life-critical applications, it is significant to model and evaluate reliability of BSNs. A ch allenge is to consider probabilistic competing failures of different BSN components. Particularly there exists a competition in the time domain between the propagated failure of a biomedical sensor (e.g., due to jamming attack) and the local failure of a relay node which is responsible for delivering the physiological information sensed by the biomedical sensor to the sink device. Different failure orderings can lead to dramatically different BSN status. In addition, each biomedical sensor in a BSN can experience two types of local failures which have different statistical relationships with the propagated failure originating from the same sensor. This paper models the reliability of BSNs considering the two different statistical relationships between local and propagated failures of biomedical sensors as well as competing failure propagation and probabilistic failure isolation effect. A combinatorial and analytical method is proposed, which is applicable to arbitrary types of distributions for both component failures and probabilistic failure isolation factors. The proposed method is illustrated through the detailed analysis of an example BSN system.
Some Theoretical Considerations Concerning Life History Evolution

During the last 10 years evolutionary biology has entered a period of expanding theoretical scope following about two decades of rather settled satisfaction with the “modern” or “neo-Darwinian” synthesis. The modern synthesis is characterized, perhaps above all else, both by the elaboration of mathematical structures to describe the genetic diversity and response to natural selection in populations and by a qualitative focus on the properties of species and the process of speciation. The mathematical models of microevolution explored prior to 1970 usually incorporate relatively simple Mendelian genetic descriptions and ecologically simple selection regimes. The focus on species in the modern synthesis brought a much clearer conception of the biological nature of species and some easily grasped, heuristic, models of allopatric and sympatric speciation.
The effect of microbial degradation on the chromatographic profiles of tiki torch fuel, lamp oil, and turpentine.

: Biodegradation can result in selective removal of many of the compounds required for the identification of an ignitable liquid. In this study, the effects of microbial degradation on tiki torch fuel, lamp oil, and turpentine are reported. Samples of soil spiked with 20 μL of the liquids were stored at room temperature for up to 7 days. The ignitable liquids were then recovered using passive headspace concentration onto charcoal strips followed by solvent elution using pentane. Microbial degradation of tiki torch fuel resulted in the loss of the n-alkanes relative to the branched alkanes. Changes in the profile of the lamp oil were minor due to the highly branched nature of its alkanes. Microbial degradation of turpentine resulted in the selective loss of limonene and o-cymene. Overall, significant degradation by microbial action could result in the inability to identify the presence of an ignitable liquid or misclassify the ignitable liquid found.
Natural Gas Vehicle Developments--a Gas Industry And Original Equipment Manufacturer Cooperative Effort

For many years, natural gas has been used as an engine fuel in stationary prime movers driving natural gas compressors, liquid pumps, and simi lar equipment. However, the physical and economic barriers restricting the broad acceptance of natural gas as an alternative fuel in the transportation market have proven to be formidable. In spite of this, new opportunities for natural gas are being developed stimulated by energy security concerns, trade im- balances created by petroleum imports, the abundance of natural gas in North America and the existing transmission and distribution system that can deliver it to almost any-where in the country, and, most importantly, tighter restrictions on vehicle emissions. Although substantial research and development will be required for natural gas to successfully meet the demands of the alternative-fuel vehicle marketplace, the clean burning character- istics of natural gas and the extensive experience gained in stationary gas engine development will help make natural gas vehicles a parti- cularly attractive alternative. The gas industry, through the Gas Re- search Institute (GRI), Is developing and implementing an R&D program to address this opportunity. GRI's efforts will focus on technology improvements for NGVs that will exploit the environmental and per formance benefits of natural gas as a vehicular fuel and will make gas the most cost effective option with-in the alternative fuels market.
Avoiding errors from stray radiation in measuring the spectral emittance of diffusely reflecting specimens.

Stray radiation error reduction in spectral emmittance measurements for diffusely reflecting materials
Thermal Radiation From a Cylindrical Enclosure With Specified Wall Heat Flux

Thermal radiation was considered from the inside surface of a heated cylindrical enclosure. A specified heat input was imposed at the enclosure wall and the surface temperature distribution was determined. The analysis considered both black and diffuse gray-body radiation and obtained a simple relation between the two. The energy equation, a linear integral equation, was solved by three methods: use of a separable kernel, numerical integration, and variational methods. (auth)
Effect of i.c.v. infusion of the α-MSH agonist MTII on meal patterns in male rats following nicotine withdrawal

Abstract The present study explored the role of endogenous α-MSH in the alteration of meal patterns induced by nicotine (NIC) withdrawal. Male Sprague Dawley rats bearing third ventricle cannulas were placed in computerized food intake monitors. On days 1–21, the rats were given 4 mg/kg/day of NIC or saline (SAL) in four equal i.p. doses during the dark period. NIC suppressed (P
Addendum to null values in nested relational databases

We define a new operator, decomposition projection, and show that extended projection is a precise generalization of decomposition projection with respect to unnesting, and that null-extended projection is a precise generalization of decomposition projection with respect to unnesting and PNF possibility function POSS.
Ironing out the role of Toll-like receptors.

In this issue of Blood , Guida et al reveal a novel role for the Toll-like receptors (TLR)2 and TLR6 in mediating hypoferremia in response to inflammatory stimuli. 1
Clinical trials bureaucracy: unintended consequences of well-intentioned policy.

BackgroundAs randomized controlled trials have become the ‘gold standard’ for medical research, a complex regulatory structure for the conduct of clinical trials has emerged. However, this structure has not been adequately assessed to ensure that regulations governing human subjects research actually produce the desired effects.PurposeOur purpose is to identify some of the major shortcomings in the current regulatory system of human clinical trials oversight, and to propose some potential solutions to these problems.MethodsWe discuss the evolution of the current US regulatory environment and its application in the context of several widely-used drug therapies.ResultsDespite numerous randomized controlled trials, performed within a structure of extensive documentation and data collection, serious shortcomings in a number of pharmaceutical therapies were not detected until after the drugs were approved and widely adopted by clinicians.ConclusionThe current system of regulatory bureaucracy in clinical trials...
Relationships of asthma knowledge, self-management, and social support in African American adolescents with asthma

Despite nationwide efforts to manage asthma, the adverse outcomes of asthma continue to increase, especially in African American adolescents. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships among asthma knowledge, self-management, and social support in African American adolescents with asthma. A correlational descriptive study was conducted using a convenience sample of 53 identified asthmatic adolescents from the Southern metropolitan school system in Alabama. Asthma knowledge was measured by the Parcel Knowledge about Asthma Questionnaire, social support by the Norbeck Social Support Questionnaire, and asthma self-management behaviors by the Asthma Behavioral Assessment Questionnaire. Both asthma knowledge and social support had significant positive relationships (r=0.31, r=0.30, respectively) with asthma self-management behaviors and accounted for 14% of self-management behaviors variability. Further studies are needed to understand how to better manage asthma in adolescents.
What is needed to claim adequacy in health services

The answer to the question in the title of this essay is fairly readily available and can be articulated by listing those attributes that spell out adequacy in health services. A series of other concepts are presented to highlight methods of analysis in judging adequacy. These fall into two categories, those value statement that give meaning to the question to begin with as well as to its answers; and those of more mechanical significance. The first appear in the form of general principles, having to do with means, ends and the maintenance of human life; the worth of human life and common ownership of resources; and overriding contradictions with health-oriented life. The second--mechanics and techniques in judging the presence or lack of health services--are addressed by the concepts of conditionality and prioritization. Examples are provided from the current health planning efforts in the United States as viewed by a professional organization, by the Clinton administration's proposal for adequate health care, and finally, those offered by the Republican party.
TIME STRUCTURE OF COSMIC-RAY SHOWERS

The time structure of extensive air showers at sea level has been measured by coincidence of liquid scintillation detectors and auxiliary Geiger tubes. The standard time deviation relative to the mean of single electrons is found to be 2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2 m\ensuremath{\mu} sec; the same quantity for single particles capable of penetrating 20 cm of Pb is 6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2 m\ensuremath{\mu} sec. The mean delay of penetrating particles relative to electrons is 0.9\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.3 m\ensuremath{\mu} sec.
The Renaissance of Natural Law Cosmology: Free Markets and Fettered Minds

In recent years, in the partial vacuum left by the apparent inadequacy of Keynesian economics, there has been a renaissance of natural law cosmology. Accordingly, the social world is again viewed through pre‐Keynesian spectacles as ideally self‐adjusting through the action of the free market. Although the re‐emergence of this outmoded ideology is reactionary, it has been salutary in checking the hubris of the positivistic and technocratic Keynesian fine tuners. The purpose of this article is to trace this revival of natural law cosmology and assess the challenge this ideological reversal poses to the prospects for the evolution of a “social economics”.
Pliocene Role in Assessing Future Climate Impacts

Future warming projected by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has the potential to affect every person on Earth. Extreme weather events, rising sea level, and migrating ecosystems and resources may result in socioeconomic stresses. Although we can plan and prepare for what is expected, the most dangerous aspect of our changing climate is the uncertainty in climate sensitivity. To reduce the uncertainties of climate change, paleoclimatologists are focusing on a possible yet imperfect analog to a future warmer climate.
Experiments with substrate-mode cascaded resonant-grating optical filters

A resonant waveguide grating filter is fabricated to function as a substrate-mode element. As the input light repeatedly interacts with the resonant element, effective cascading is achieved with attendant linewidth narrowing and sideband suppression.
The hemodynamic effects of propofol in children with congenital heart disease.

UNLABELLED We studied the hemodynamic effects of propofol during elective cardiac catheterization in 30 children with congenital heart disease. Sixteen patients were without cardiac shunt (Group I), six had left-to-right cardiac shunt (Group II), and eight had right-to-left cardiac shunt (Group III). The mean (+/-SD) ages were 3.8+/-3.1 yr (Group I), 3.2+/-3.7 yr (Group II), and 1.0+/-0.6 yr (Group III). After sedation and cardiac catheter insertion, hemodynamic data and oxygen consumption were measured before and after the administration of propofol (2-mg/kg bolus, 50- to 200-microg x kg(-1) x min(-1) infusion), and values were compared by using a paired t-test (significance: P < 0.05). After the propofol administration, systemic mean arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance decreased significantly and systemic blood flow increased significantly in all patient groups; heart rate, pulmonary mean arterial pressure, and pulmonary vascular resistance were unchanged. Pulmonary to systemic resistance ratio increased (Group I, P = 0.005; Group II, P = 0.03; Group III, P = 0.10). In patients with cardiac shunt, propofol resulted in decreased left-to-right flow and increased right-to-left flow; the pulmonary to systemic flow ratio decreased significantly (Group II, P = 0.005; Group III, P = 0.01). Clinically relevant decreases in Pao2 (P = 0.008) and Sao2 (P = 0.01) occurred in Group III patients. We conclude that propofol can result in clinically important changes in cardiac shunt direction and flow. IMPLICATIONS The principal hemodynamic effect of propofol in children with congenital heart defects is a decrease in systemic vascular resistance. In children with cardiac shunt, this results in a decrease in the ratio of pulmonary to systemic blood flow, and it can lead to arterial desaturation in patients with cyanotic heart disease.
Characterization of electron-irradiated biaxially-oriented polypropylene films

Post-radiation changes in the electrical and mechanical properties of capacitor-grade isotactic polypropylene films exposed to electron radiation were previously reported by the authors (ibid., vol.NS-34, no.6, p.1822-6, Dec. 1987). Based on the data obtained, it was suggested that crosslinking, chain scission and oxidative degradation were responsible for the radiation-induced changes in the film. In the present investigations, additional electrical characterizations that included the DC breakdown voltage and AC conductivity measurements were performed. Effects of the electron radiation on the physical and chemical properties were also evaluated to identify the actual degradation mechanisms. These studies included scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy and sol-gel measurements. The results obtained confirm that crosslinking and chain scission of the polymer are responsible for the changes in the lower dose range, whereas oxidative degradation becomes predominant at higher dose levels. >
A PC based large finite difference thoracic model for determining current pathways from external voltage or current sources

A 520K element finite difference model of the thorax was developed from ECG gated MRIs. A C++ computer program was developed and run on an IBM compatible 486–40 MHz computer that takes 22.5 hours for 250 iterations. This converges to an impedance values within 04% of the value obtained in 500 iterations. This development demonstrates the successful use of a PC to solve large finite difference problems.
Risk factors for excess mortality in Harlem. Findings from the Harlem Household Survey.

Abstract Introduction: In 1980, age-adjusted mortality rates in Central Harlem were the highest among New York City’s 30 health districts. This population-based study was designed to describe the self-reported frequency of selected health conditions, behavioral risk factors, preventive health practices, and drug use in the Harlem community. Methods: From 1992 to 1994, in-person interviews were conducted among 695 adults aged 18 to 65 years who were randomly selected from dwelling-unit enumeration lists for the Central Harlem health district. Descriptive statistics were computed for men and women separately, and compared to other population-based surveys. Results: Self-reported medical insurance coverage in Harlem was unexpectedly high (74% of men, 86% of women) as was lifetime use of preventive health practices, e.g., blood cholesterol screening (58% of men, 70% of women). However, lifetime rates of substance use, e.g. crack cocaine (14%) and self-reported history of traumatic events, e.g., witnessing someone seriously injured or violently killed (49% of men, 21% of women) were also high in Harlem, especially in comparison to other populations. Conclusions: This study has identified important patterns of similarities and differences in risk behaviors between Harlem and other populations. Potential solutions to the health problems of Harlem may lie in the creation of strategies that operate at the community, municipal, and regional level, as well as at the level of individual behavior and risk-taking.
Application of Computer Programs in the Design of a Fast Reversal Theta-Pinch Experiment

The confinement of plasma in a linear thetapinch should be improved by the application of rapid reversals of the direction of high magnetic fields. In order to create the complex currents for such fields a multiplicity of capacitor banks with greatly different characteristics has to be utilized. The analysis of such a network is complicated furthermore by an important time dependent inductance arising from the motion of the plasma. The system of differential equations for the currents and voltages at the various circuit elements is nonlinear and can only be solved with the aid of computer programs. In an iterative process which compromises the plasma theory requirements and the hardware limitations, an attempt is made to optimize the design of the experiment. A description of this technique, examples for the variation of critical circuit parameters, and a possible design are presented.