cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
From Indigenous Literatures to Native American and Indigenous Theorists: The Makings of a Grassroots Decoloniality

From the coloniality of power to the decolonial swerve, US-centered decolonial academics concur with the foundational points introduced by Peruvian sociologist Anibal Quijano. Nevertheless, they seldom cite Latin American Indigenous or Native American intellectuals’ decolonial perspectives, or examine specific bodies of critical thinking emerging in hemispheric Indigenous communities. In turn, a diversity of Indigenous paradigms and methods are appearing in the Americas, either as literary texts or critical works. Indigenous or Native American writers and theorists are often political actors, working within their respective grassroots movements, or writing to advance specific goals of their own communities. This article will emphasize Native American and Indigenous decolonial issues framed from a critique of contemporary Indigenous narratives. Their views both enrich and complicate Western decolonial theorists’ assumptions. Examining their production provides continuity to the political and epistemological searches of both, while also contributing to breaking down those invisible walls separating them. De la colonialidad del poder al giro decolonial, los academicos decoloniales que trabajan en los Estados Unidos coinciden con los aspectos fundacionales introducidos por el sociologo Anibal Quijano. Sin embargo, rara vez citan las perspectivas descolonizadoras de intelectuales indigenas. Tampoco examinan las corrientes especificas de pensamiento critico que estan surgiendo en las comunidades indigenas del hemisferio. Toda una gran diversidad de paradigmas y metodos indigenas han aparecido en las Americas, sea como textos literarios, o como pensamiento critico. Los escritores o teoricos indigenas suelen ser actores politicos, trabajando dentro de sus respectivos movimientos de base, o bien escribiendo para avanzar metas concretas de estas organizaciones. Este articulo enfatiza las problematicas descolonizadoras indigenas enmarcadas desde una perspectiva de la critica de narrativas indigenas contemporaneas. Sus puntos de vista enriquecen y complican las presuposiciones de muchos teoricos decoloniales occidentales. Examinando su produccion provee continuidad a las busquedas politicas y epistemologicas de ambos, y contribuye a romper los muros invisibles que los separan.
REBT with Children and Adolescents

From its inception, Albert Ellis pioneered the application of REBT with children and adolescents, stressing, in particular, the importance of teaching young clients positive mental health concepts that would promote their social, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive development. Although REBT has been practiced very successfully with young clients, one of the misconceptions is that it is simply a “downward extension of REBT adult methods” (Ellis and Bernard in Rational emotive behavioral approaches to childhood problems: theory, practice, and research. Springer, New York, 2006, p. xi). In fact, there are numerous specific techniques that have been adapted to complement the developmental levels of children and adolescents, helping them learn REBT concepts in their “own language” through unique approaches that enable them to apply the basic theoretical principles to address typical developmental challenges as well as more serious problems.
Data Center Predictions using MATLAB Machine Learning Toolbox

This paper describes a predictive model using MATLAB machine learning tools for nonlinear regression, support vector machine and neural network. Data center performance measures such as run time, waiting time and energy consumption, are predicted based on past events, total workload input and number of IT resources. Predictive analytics enables evidence-based decision making in the case of uncertainty and risk, and helps to evaluate areas of improvement.
Low-Cost Stochastic Hybrid Multiplier for Quantized Neural Networks

With increased interests of neural networks, hardware implementations of neural networks have been investigated. Researchers pursue low hardware cost by using different technologies such as stochastic computing (SC) and quantization. More specifically, the quantization is able to reduce total number of trained weights and results in low hardware cost. SC aims to lower hardware costs substantially by using simple gates instead of complex arithmetic operations. However, the advantages of both quantization and SC in neural networks are not well investigated. In this article, we propose a new stochastic multiplier with simple CMOS transistors called the stochastic hybrid multiplier for quantized neural networks. The new design uses the characteristic of quantized weights and tremendously reduces the hardware cost of neural networks. Experimental results indicate that our stochastic design achieves about 7.7x energy reduction compared to its counterpart binary implementation while maintaining slightly higher recognition error rates than the binary implementation. Compared to previous stochastic neural network implementations, our work derives at least 4x, 9x, and 10x reduction in terms of area, power, and energy, respectively.
Mitoxantrone, Etoposide and Cyclosporine A Therapy for Relapsed and Refractory Acute Myelogenous Leukemia, A Pediatric Oncology Group Phase II Trial

Multidrug resistance remains a major obstacle to effective treatment of patients with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML). A growing body of evidence indicates that over-expression of the MDR1 gene, which encodes the multidrug transporter P-glycoprotein(P-gp), contributes to the resistance of human cancers to many anti-cancer drugs [1,2]. One strategy currently being explored to overcome this resistance is the coadministration of non-cytotoxic drugs that bind to and inhibit the function of P-gp, thereby rendering the cells sensitive to concurrently administered chemotherapy. The Pediatric Oncology Group Phase II clinical trial reported here was designed to test the safety and efficacy of this strategy. Among the agents that are currently approved for clinical trials, Cyclosporine A (CSA) is the most potent inhibitor of P-gp. CSA has been shown to reverse chemotherapeutic resistance due to expression of the MDR1 P-gp both in vitro and in animal models. Phase I trials have demonstrated that blood levels of CSA similar to those required to modulate MDR in vitro can be achieved with acceptable toxicity. Alterations in the pharmacokinetics of MDR related drugs have been reported so that chemotherapy doses need to be chosen carefully to prevent undue toxicity [5].
Randomized, open-label, perioperative phase II study evaluating nivolumab alone versus nivolumab plus ipilimumab in patients with resectable HCC

Abstract Background In HCC, surgical resection is associated with high recurrence rates, and no effective neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapies currently exist. Immunotherapy using anti-PD-1 antibodies has shown promised but limited increase in survival in advanced disease. To maximize the benefit, we are studying the efficacy and safety of anti–PD-1 (nivolumab) and anti–CTLA-4 (ipilimumab) antibodies against HCC for resectable HCC. Methods This is a randomized phase II trial of nivolumab (Arm A) or nivolumab + ipilimumab (Arm B) as pre-operative treatment for patients (pts) with HCC who are eligible for surgical resection. Pts are given nivolumab 240 mg every 2 weeks (wks) for a total of 6 wks. Pt in Arm B are treated concurrently with ipilimumab 1 mg/kg every 6 wks. Surgical resection occurs within 4 wks after last cycle of therapy. Pts continue adjuvant immunotherapy for up to 2 years after resection. The primary objective is the safety/tolerability of nivolumab +/- ipilimumab. Secondary objectives include overall response rate, complete response rate and time to progression. Exploratory objectives include evaluating the pre- and post-treatment immunological changes in tumor tissues and peripheral blood. Results Twenty-six patients were enrolled at the time of this interim analysis, of which 20 have evaluable data.Most pts (55%) were between 60-70yo and male (75%).Seven pts were HCV-positive, 7 had HBV and 6 had no hepatitis. 20 patients proceeded with resection as planned but surgery was aborted for 3 patients (1 for frozen abdomen and 2 development of contralateral liver nodule). Three are still receiving preoperative therapy. Pathologic complete response (pCR) was observed in 5/20 evaluable patients – 2 in Arm A and 3 Arm B (25% pCR rate). Five patients in Arm B and 1 in Arm A experienced grade 3 or higher toxicity prior to surgery. No grade 4 or higher toxicity were observed. Conclusions We report a pCR rate of 25% for resectable HCC after preoperative immunotherapy in a randomized phase II pilot trial. Treatment was safe and surgical resection was not delayed. The study is ongoing. These promising results may contribute to a paradigm shift in the perioperative treatment of resectable HCC. Legal entity responsible for the study BMS Pharmaceuticals. Funding BMS Pharmaceuticals. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
Assessing the Financial Impact of Natural Disasters on Local Governments

In recent decades, the increase in the frequency and the severity of natural disasters has posed growing challenges to governments’ disaster response activities. Disasters can have a considerable financial impact on local governments, but this impact has not been systematically analyzed. This study assesses disaster impact using 17 years of panel data (between 1996 and 2012) from the city and county governments in New York state. The research examines many aspects of local governments’ financial conditions, including liquidity, fund balance, and debt. It tests whether governments’ financial conditions are affected by disasters and whether fiscal institutions moderate disasters’ impacts. The results show that a local government's unreserved fund balance and disaster reserve significantly affect its financial condition, while financial condition indicators are not significantly impacted by natural disasters when the fiscal institution variables are controlled.
Unintentional procrastination, self control, and academic achievements

This study measures students' unintentional procrastination, as captured by ‘the number of days delayed,’ or ‘delay.’ ‘Delay’ is the difference between the day that a student indicated that he or s...
A Variational Multiscale method with immersed boundary conditions for incompressible flows

This paper presents a new stabilized form of incompressible Navier–Stokes equations for weak enforcement of Dirichlet boundary conditions at immersed boundaries. The boundary terms are derived via the Variational Multiscale (VMS) method which involves solving the fine-scale variational problem locally within a narrow band along the boundary. The fine-scale model is then variationally embedded into the coarse-scale form that yields a stabilized method which is free of user defined parameters. The derived boundary terms weakly enforce the Dirichlet boundary conditions along the immersed boundaries that may not align with the inter-element edges in the mesh. A unique feature of this rigorous derivation is that the structure of the stabilization tensor which emerges is naturally endowed with the mathematical attributes of area-averaging and stress-averaging. The method is implemented using 4-node quadrilateral and 8-node hexahedral elements. A set of 2D and 3D benchmark problems is presented that investigate the mathematical attributes of the method. These test cases show that the proposed method is mathematically robust as well as computationally stable and accurate for modeling boundary layers around immersed objects in the fluid domain.
Portable infrared lightbox for improving the detection limits of paper-based phosphate devices

Abstract Herein, we report the development of a portable, iPhone controlled, and inexpensive infrared lightbox for improving the detection limits of paper-based phosphate devices. Commercial devices utilize the molybdenum blue protocol for phosphate detection. Although these devices are user-friendly and have a long shelf life, their standard mode of operation suffers from low sensitivity since it gives semi-quantitative results by comparing to a color chart. To improve the results, we constructed a compact infrared lightbox that communicates wirelessly with a smartphone equipped with a developed colorimetric analyzer. This system measures the absorbance of radiation for the molybdenum blue reaction in the infrared region of the spectrum. By using the infrared lightbox, the detection limits for two popular paper-based commercial devices were improved by a factor of 4 for the Quantofix devices and a factor of 6 for the Indigo units with repeatability of less than or equal to 1.2% RSD.
Novel ACE2-IgG1 fusions with improved in vitro and in vivo activity against SARS-CoV2

Abstract SARS-CoV2, the etiologic agent of COVID-19, uses ACE2 as a cell entry receptor. Soluble ACE2 has been shown to have neutralizing antiviral activity but has a short half-life and no active transport mechanism from the circulation into the alveolar spaces of the lung. To overcome this, we constructed an ACE2-human IgG1 fusion protein with mutations in the catalytic domain of ACE2. This fusion protein contained a LALA mutation that abrogates Fcrγ binding, but retains FcRN binding to prolong the half-life, as well as achieve therapeutic concentrations in the lung lavage. Interestingly, a mutation in the catalytic domain of ACE2, MDR504, completely abrogated catalytic activity, but significantly increased binding to SARS-CoV2 spike protein in vitro. This feature correlated with more potent viral neutralization in a plaque assay. Parental administration of the protein showed stable serum concentrations with a serum half-life of ∼ 145 hours with excellent bioavailability in the epithelial lining fluid of the lung. Prophylactic administration of MDR504 significantly attenuated SARS-CoV2 infection in a murine model. These data support that the MDR504 hACE2-Fc is an excellent candidate for pre or post-exposure prophylaxis or treatment of COVID-19.
Wavefront-selective Fano resonant metasurfaces

Fano resonances are conventionally understood as sharp spectral features with selectivity in the momentum-frequency domain, implying that they can be excited only by plane waves with specific frequencies and incident angles. We demonstrate that Fano resonances can be made generally selective in the space-frequency domain. They can be tailored to resonate only when excited by a frequency, polarization, and wavefront of choice. This generalization reveals that Fano systems are characterized by eigenwaves that scatter to their time-reversed image upon reflection. Although in conventional Fano systems this trivially occurs for normally incident plane waves, we show that, in general, the selected wavefront is locally retroreflected everywhere across the device. These results show that conventional Fano resonances are a subset of a broader dichroic phenomenon with spin, spatial, and spectral selectivity. We demonstrate these concepts with nonlocal metasurfaces whose governing principles are deeply rooted in the symmetry features of quasi-bound states in the continuum. Enhanced light–matter interactions and symmetry-protection make these phenomena uniquely suited for enriching applications in quantum optics, non-linear optics, augmented reality, and secure optical communications, laying the groundwork for a range of novel compact optical sources and devices.
Aesthetics: The Capacity for Relational Aesthetics

Aesthetic competence is defined as the capacity to experience relational beauty, goodness, and truth simultaneously. Beauty, goodness, and truth, which are inseparable, are viewed as modes of encounter, the origin of which is traced developmentally to the experience of aesthetic reciprocity between mother and child. The mother’s face (or smile) embodies her beauty, goodness, and truth. A beautiful mother is a good and true mother. Our original acquired capacity for aesthetic reciprocity is more primary and can contain our predisposition for participating in relational ugliness and untruths.
When cats need to see to step accurately

KEY POINTS Cats, like humans, rely on vision to navigate in complex environments. In cats walking along a horizontally placed ladder we show that visual information required for accurate stepping is collected non-uniformly across the stride cycle. Brief denial of visual input during a swing prolongs the next stance of that forelimb. Denial of visual input during a stance prolongs this stance, as well as the next swing and stance. Denial during the first half of stance has a greater effect than during the second half. The phase-dependence of the use of vision for accurate stepping and the pattern of affected swings and stances are closely related to the previously described pattern of gaze behavior in cats. This new knowledge opens new perspectives for research into neuronal mechanisms of visuo-motor coordination and visual function during walking, and for understanding related disorders. ABSTRACT Locomotion on complex terrains often requires vision. However, how vision serves locomotion is not well understood. Here we asked when visual information necessary for accurate stepping is collected and how its acquisition relates to the step cycle. In cats of both sexes we showed that a brief (200-400 ms) interruption of visual input can rapidly influence cat's walking along a horizontal ladder. Depending on the phase within the step cycle, a 200 ms darkness could be fully tolerated without any changes to the strides, or lead to minor increases of stride duration. Effects of 300-400 ms visual input denial, which typically prolonged stances and/or swings, also depended on the phase of the darkness onset. Increase of the duration of strides was always shorter than the darkness duration. We conclude that visual information for planning a swing is collected starting from the middle of the preceding stance till the beginning of the current swing. For a stance (and/or a swing of the other paw), visual information is collected starting from the end of the previous stance and until the middle of the current stance. Acquisition of visual information during these windows is not uniform, but depends on the phase of the step cycle. Notably, both the extension of these windows and their non-homogeneity are closely related to the pattern of gaze behavior in cats, described previously. This new knowledge will help guiding research and understanding of neuronal mechanisms of visuo-motor integration and modulation of visual function by strides during locomotion. Abstract figure legend: Accurate stepping on crosspieces of a horizontal ladder requires vision. We show that collection of visual information for locomotion is not uniform across the stride cycle. In cats, brief denial of visual input during a swing prolongs the next stance of that forelimb. Denial of visual input during a stance prolongs this stance, as well as the next swing and stance. This dependence of the acquisition of visual information for locomotion and the pattern of affected swings and/or stances are closely related to the pattern of gaze behavior in cats, described previously. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Basics of Hydraulic Systems

INTRODUCTION TO FLUID POWER Power Transmission and Fluid Power Systems Fundamentals of Hydraulic Power Transmission Energy and Power in Hydraulic Systems Exercises HYDRAULIC POWER GENERATION Hydraulic Pumps Control of Power Generation Exercises HYDRAULIC POWER DISTRIBUTION Hydraulic Control Valves Hydraulic Manifolds Hydraulic Lines Energy Losses and Heat Generation in Power Distribution Exercises HYDRAULIC POWER DEPLOYMENT Hydraulic Linear Actuators Hydraulic Rotary Actuators Hydrostatic Transmission Exercises HYDRAULIC POWER STORAGE AND REGENERATION Hydraulic Power Storage and Regeneration Components Power Storage Power Storage Power Regeneration Exercise AUXILIARY COMPONENTS FOR HYDRAULIC POWER SYSTEMS Key Auxiliary Components of Hydraulic Power Systems Hydraulic Fluids Hydraulic Systems Faults Diagnosis Exercises HYDRAULIC SYSTEM CIRCUITS Basic Hydraulic Circuits Integrated Hydraulic Circuits Exercises
On a linearizability condition for a three-web on a two-dimensional manifold

Let W be a three-web formed by three one-parameter families of curves in a two-dimensional differentiable manifold and let K be its curvature. The web W is linearizable (rectifiable) if it is equivalent to a linear three-web, i.e. three-web formed by three one-parameter families of straight lines. A criterion of linearizability is very important in web geometry and especially in its application to nomography. All previous attempts to find the criterion failed. W. Blaschke claimed that it is hopeless to find the criterion. A new approach to the problem allows to find a necessary and sufficient condition for the W to be linearizable in terms of its curvature K, its covariant derivatives and components of the affine deformation tensor of the affine connection induced by W and its covariant derivatives. If a web W is given by an equation u=f(x,y), then this condition is reduced to a condition expressed in terms of the function f(x,y), its partial derivatives and the components of the affine deformation tensor and its covariant derivatives. To find this partial differential equation, a program for symbolic manipulation has been used. To make this condition effective, the components of the affine deformation tensor and its covariant derivatives should are excluded from it.
Validity and Reliability of an Algorithm to Help Select Safe Dietary Supplements

Background: The use of dietary supplements (DS) is widespread in today's military. Service members use these products to enhance their performance and ability to conduct mission-specific tasks; how...
Specification and Verification of Controlled Systems

We propose a conceptual framework to support specification, design and verification of programs controlling physical systems. We introduce a computational model that represents the controller capabilities and distinguishes between synchronous and phase transitions. A graphical system description language is proposed that we believe is readily accessible to control engineers. We formalize the notion of control strategy in controller design.
Case Reports: A Meaningful Way for Massage Practice to Inform Research and Education

Practice-induced challenges to massage research and education include those related to disparate training standards, requirements, and expectations across the US, North America, and internationally. These challenges should not overshadow the need for practice to inform research and education, especially in light of the move towards effectiveness research. What remains constantly applicable to massage practitioners of all locations and from all backgrounds are treatment details regarding the techniques used, client/patient characteristics, condition/issue of complaint, provider and client/patient expectations, and outcomes. Case reports provide a venue for this information to be shared across all practitioners, educators, and researchers. While many massage practitioners are not trained in scientific writing, preparing and publishing a case report need not be daunting, especially with writing partners when writing burden can be shared. Writing in isolation can be challenging, even for trained researchers. Perceived practitioner contribution and credit are not reduced when authorship in a manuscript is shared; rather it may be enhanced with an experienced partner.
Multiscale models and controllers

Presents results in the area of simulation, design, and control of complex systems using a new approach which unifies modeling, prediction, and optimization capabilities for decision making, planning, and real time operation. The system for control and simulation employs multiscale knowledge representation with multiresolutional nesting as a major principle of knowledge organization, programming, and assignment of computational and control procedures. This novel principle is applicable for intelligent systems. >
Rotational spectroscopy of LiCCH (X̃1Σ) in its ground and v5 vibrational states

Abstract The pure rotational spectrum of LiCCH ( X 1 Σ ) in its ground and v 5 vibrational states has been recorded using direct absorption, millimeter/sub-millimeter spectroscopy in the range of 105–538 GHz. For the main isotopomer, 21 transitions were measured for the ground state and 10 transitions each for the excited levels v 5 =1, 2, and 3, where l-type doubling was resolved. Several transitions were also recorded for 6 LiCCH , Li 13 CCH , LiC 13 CH , and LiCCD. All were observed in their natural abundances except for LiCCD. Rotational, l-type doubling and vibration–rotation constants were determined for LiCCH, as well as r s and r o structures.
A comparison of modern and presettlement pollen from southern Michigan (U.S.A.)

Abstract Use of samples of modern pollen to interpret assemblages of fossil pollen requires that the effects of man's impact be identified in the modern pollen. A comparison of the modern and presettlement pollen in 23 short cores taken within the lower peninsula of Michigan reveals a varied effect of man's activities on the vegetation. When obvious indicators of human activity (such as ragweed pollen) are removed from the pollen sum, many differences in the composition of the arboreal pollen are still evident between presettlement and modern records. When compared to presettlement data, birch, elm, and willow pollen in the modern data appear in proportionately higher quantities throughout the state, whereas beech, maple, and hemlock are in lower quantities. Within the region of primeaval pine forests, white pine values are much lower and oak values show an increase. Despite these differences in the pollen record, the modern pollen reflect the same basic patterns in the vegetation as the presettlement pollen. Principal component analysis shows the same patterns to exist in the modern data as are in the presettlement pollen.
Synergistic interaction of kethoxal bis(thiosemicarbazone) and cupric ions in sarcoma 180.

2-KETO-3-ethoxybutyraldehyde bis (thiosemicarbazone) [kethoxal bis(thiosemicarbazone); KTS], an agent that chelates metals of the first, second and third transition series1, has been reported to be an inhibitor of the growth of several transplanted rodent neoplasms2–5. The anti-neoplastic potency of KTS was enhanced by the presence of either cupric or zinc ions6; however, the preformed cupric chelate was found to be the most potent of several different metal chelates of KTS1,5,7. To investigate the relationship of copper ions to the antineoplastic activity of KTS, the effects of combinations of cupric ions (as cupric chloride) and KTS, both on growth and on the synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins, were measured in sarcoma 180 ascites cells.
Optimization of machine setup and tooling using the principles of group technology

Abstract A number of the problems which arise in batch manufacturer are a result of the high variety of components produced. One of the basic features of group technology is to reduce this variety by effectively sorting components requiring similar processes into families to increase efficiency and productivity. This paper presents a research project to study and optimize the choice of toolings, tooling setups and scheduling of component parts to be machined on different kinds of turning machines. A computer program called OPSSP (OPtimization of Setup and Scheduling of Parts) was developed to achieve this goal. Furthermore, as a step toward the completion of automated process planning of parts, the system is designed to select appropriate holders for cutting tools and prepare detailed work instructions containing the clamping device and a list of required tooling for parts. The verification studies indicated that the system is capable of producing realistic practical results and can be effectively be used to achieve effective tooling, setup, and processing of parts.
In vitro induction of tetraploid plants from colchicine-treated diploid daylily callus

Daylily plantlets with tetraploid or octaploid chromosome numbers were induced from colchicine-treated diploid callus (2n=22). Callus tissue of the daylily Hemerocallis flava L. was placed on a morphogenetic induction medium, a modified MS formula supplemented with 1 mg 2,4-D and 1 mg kinetin/liter, plus 0,10, 20, or 40 mg/liter colchicine in the dark at 12°C for 3 days and recuperated for 1 week under the same environmental conditions except that colchicine was left out. The calluses were then returned to the normal growth temperature 25°C. Ploidy was identified by chromosome counts of squashed root-tip cells collected from the newly potted plantlets and later by measurements of stomates and pollen grains. Over 50% of the plants initiated from the colchicine-treated calluses were completely tetraploid. All of the plantlets differentiated from untreated callus had a diploid number of 22. Of the 3 colchicine levels applied, the 20 mg/liter treatment appeared to be the most effective in production of tetraploidy.
Comparison of Effects of Inhibitors of Viral and Cellular Protein Kinases on Human Cytomegalovirus Disruption of Nuclear Lamina and Nuclear Egress

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) kinase UL97 is required for efficient nuclear lamina disruption during nuclear egress. However, cellular protein kinase C (PKC) has been implicated in this process in other systems. Comparing the effects of UL97 and cellular kinase inhibitors on HCMV nuclear egress confirms a role for UL97 in lamina disruption and nuclear egress. A pan-PKC inhibitor did not affect lamina disruption but did reduce the number of cytoplasmic capsids more than the number of nuclear capsids.
Activating and inhibitory functions of DAP12

When associated with different receptors, the signalling adaptor DAP12 has been shown to both potentiate and attenuate the activation of leukocytes. But how can a protein with a single signalling motif elicit qualitatively different cellular responses? We describe a model of DAP12 function, whereby the quality of the cellular response (activation or inhibition) is modulated by the avidity of the interaction between the DAP12-associated receptor and its ligand. This model extends from previous studies of inhibitory signalling mediated by other adaptors, such as the Fc-receptor gamma-chain and CD3zeta, and provides a potential mechanism for the conflicting phenotypes observed in studies of DAP12-deficient mice.
Potential role of interleukin-1 in the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Increased activities of inflammatory mediators unopposed by their inhibitors contribute to chronic lung injury and impaired healing in BPD. The deleterious effects of IL-1 beta, a cytokine involved in inflammation and host defense, are blocked by IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra). We proposed that an imbalance of IL-1 beta and its inhibitors may contribute to the development of BPD. To determine the relative antigen concentrations of IL-1 beta and IL-1Ra and functional IL-1 activity in lung lavage of infants at risk for BPD, lung lavage was serially obtained from 1 to 28 days from 17 infants with evolving BPD, 13 infants with self-limited RDS, and 6 controls ventilated for nonpulmonary reasons. Overall, there was a high correlation between IL-1 beta antigen concentration and IL-1 activity (r = 0.82, p = 0.0001). There were no significant differences among the groups for lung lavage variables on day 1. However, in infants who developed BPD, IL-1 beta antigen concentration and IL-1 activity increased 16- and 61-fold, respectively, during the first week. IL-1Ra remained relatively unchanged during the first month. IL-1 beta/IL-1Ra antigen ratio was significantly higher on days 5 (median 0.024) and 7 (median 0.025) compared with day 1 (median 0.004), p < 0.05. These results suggest that a relative imbalance of IL-1 beta and IL-1Ra may contribute to prolonged inflammation in BPD.
Off-Lattice Simulation of Multifunctional Monomer Polymerizations: Effects of Monomer Mobility, Structure, and Functionality on Structural Evolution at Low Conversion

Fundamental insight into the polymerization behavior and structural evolution of highly cross-linked polymers synthesized from the chain polymerization of multifunctional monomers will benefit a number of current and emerging applications. This contribution reintroduces' an off-lattice kinetic gelation model with refinements to the representations of monomer mobility, structure, and functionality, which more realistically capture low conversion propagation events during cross-linked network evolution. Intramolecularly cross-linked macromolecules (ICMs) are formed by simulation of a single propagating radical within a volume containing ca. 100 000 monomer units. Effects of monomer mobility, structure, and functionality on the relative size, kinetic chain length, and intramolecular cross-link density of ICMs are reported. Finally, aspects of percolation theory are applied to this off-lattice kinetic gelation simulation. The fractal dimension corresponds to the theoretical value for a lattice animal created by a three-dimensional percolation model and it is independent of conversion. Overall, this contribution demonstrates the utility of a unique approach for kinetic gelation simulation of multifunctional monomer polymerizations that affords more realistic representation of monomer structure and dynamics than traditional, lattice-based models.
VITAMIN B12 AND THE MACROMOLECULAR COMPOSITION OF EUGLENA

When vitamin B12 is added to B12-deficient cultures of Euglena gracilis , the cells undergo two relatively synchronous cell divisions within a shorter than usual period of time, apparently as a result of a transitory shortening of the cell cycle. The first cell division pulse, occurring 4.5 h after addition of B12, is preceded by the completion of DNA duplication, but appears to involve no net synthesis of RNA or protein. Before the second round of cell division at about 11 h, a significant amount of DNA synthesis is observed. This time it is accompanied by a minor increase in the RNA and protein content of the culture. The cellular contents of RNA and protein were observed to decrease steadily after the resumption of cell division in B12-depleted cultures receiving the vitamin. Ultimately all three macromolecules returned to their nondeficient, plateau stage levels; by this time, cell division had ceased.
Determination of 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenylethylene glycol 4-sulfate in human urine using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

A major metabolite of norepinephrine (NE) in brain is 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenylethylene glycol (MHPG). In many species, a large fraction of MHPG formed in brain is converted to the sulfate conjugate. Consequently, MHPG sulfate has been proposed as a biomarker for NE metabolism in the central nervous system. As part of the clinical trials of the monoamine oxidase inhibitor selegiline for treating cocaine addiction, we required a method for measuring urine concentrations of MHPG sulfate. Using a deuterium-labeled analogue as an internal standard, we developed a liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/ MS) method for determination of MHPG sulfate in human urine. Sample preparation involves simply diluting 50 microL of urine with 1 mL of ammonium formate buffer and adding the internal standard. The sample is centrifuged, the supernate is transferred to an autosampler vial, and 10 microL is injected into the LC-MS/MS system. Standard curves from 50 to 10,000 ng/mL are generated. Only one sample of 277 clinical samples analyzed had a concentration outside of this range. Precision (coefficient of variation) ranged from 1.9 to 9.7%, and accuracy ranged from 97 to 103% of expected values for controls prepared by spiking sulfatase-treated urine with MHPG sulfate.
Time-dependent methods of quantum dynamics: from few atoms to condensed matter

An overview of theoretical work on quantum molecular dynamics done by our research group at the QTP of the University of Florida is presented. It covers aspects of molecular collisions using time-dependent wavefunctions and scattering propagators, partitioning methods describing resonance scattering and optical potentials, collisional time-correlation functions and related computational procedures for few-atom and many-atom collisions. Applications are mentioned on reactive atom–diatom collisions, atom–polyatomic and atom-surface collisional energy transfer. More recent work has dealt with the spectra and dynamics of many-atom systems in terms of a density operator (DOp) that combines quantal and statistical descriptions. A quantum–classical version of its equation of motion has been developed and applied to photodissociation. Further, work on dissipative dynamics introduces a reduced DOp to describe spectra and dynamics at surfaces and to account for fluctuation and dissipation phenomena, and mentions re...
Differential therapeutic responses of patients with isoproterenol-dependent and isoproterenol-independent vasodepressor syncope

Abstract Orthostatic stress during tilt table testing (TTT) is used to examine patients who may have vasodepressor syncope. This response is thought to be mediated by activation of left ventricular mechanoreceptors. Isoproterenol, by increasing the rate of discharge of these mechanoreceptors, has been proposed to increase the sensitivity of TTT without decreasing its specificity. This mechanism is not, however, totally consistent with recent observations of vasodepressor responses after cardiac transplantation in patients with denervated hearts. These reports and data showing that not all sympathomimetic agents increase the sensitivity of TTT suggest that more than one mechanism may be responsible for a positive TTT result. Therefore we hypothesized that patients with positive TTT results tests not requiring isoproterenol (iso-independent) would have a different clinical and therapeutic response than patients who required isoproterenol (iso-dependent). One hundred sixty-one consecutive patients who underwent TTT for the evaluation of unexplained syncope were included in the study. TTT was performed without and during isoproterenol infusion. A positive TTT result was defined as syncope or presyncope with a sudden decrease in systolic blood pressure and reproduction of the patient's clinical symptoms. Patients with a positive TTT result underwent a second test after 1 to 2 weeks of therapy with an oral β-blocking agent; if the result remained positive, TTT was performed again with other agents until a satisfactory therapeutic response was obtained. Sixty-six (41%) of 161 patients had a positive result; 18 (27%) were iso-independent, and 48 (73%) were iso-dependent. There were no significant differences in age, gender, or presence of underlying heart disease between these two groups. Patients with iso-dependent and underlying heart disease between these two groups. Patients with iso-dependent and iso-independent syncope had similar hemodynamic responses to treatment with β-blockers. However, the response rate to β-blockers in the iso-dependent group was 100% versus 47% in the iso-independent group (p
A 900 MHz Beam Steering Parasitic Antenna Array for Wearable Wireless Applications

A 900 MHz wearable beam steering antenna array is proposed. A wideband driven dipole when assisted by several varactor diode controlled parasitic dipoles allows the array beam to be steered in the azimuth. Antenna array prototypes fabricated using copper, conductive fabrics and conductive threads show good bandwidth and radiation performance. The array when placed against an anatomically correct human body model shows that the array beam can be steered along 3 distinct angles, 0, 45, and 315 degrees with 5.9 dBi peak gain.
The Housing Act of 1954 The Sea Change in National Urban Policy

The Housing Act of 1954 marked a historic turn in housing policy and federal-city relations. The act replaced public housing with commercially oriented urban renewal. It also served to redefine urban liberalism. Before 1954, New Deal class divisions characterized debates about the role of the federal government in the cities; after 1954, a new, powerful alliance of mayors and business groups-led by the Eisenhower administration-created consensus around urban redevelopment policies. The change in the trajectory of policy and politics is explained in this article by a model that emphasizes the importance of state institutions, interest groups, and ideas.
Lactation and reproductive histories of breast cancer patients in greater Athens, 1965-67.

As part of an international collaborative study, an attempt was made to identify all cases of breast cancer among residents of the Cities of Athens and Piraeus newly diagnosed in a period of 2 1/2 years. A total of 956 cases was identified, giving an annual average incidence rate of 34.9 per 100,000 female population. Rates by age and marital status are reported. Of these cases 799 (84%) were interviewed, along with 2,470 controls. The controls were residents of Athens and Piraeus under treatment in the same hospitals as the breast cancer cases but for conditions other than breast cancer. In relation to the controls, the breast cancer cases were of low fertility. After adjustment for this difference there was no difference between cases and controls in any of a variety of measures of lactation experience. The cases differed significantly from the controls in having higher socio-economic status, earlier menarche, later first pregnancy, later menopause and greater height and weight. The ranges of these variables were associated with variations in breast cancer risk of the order of two or three fold.
Gene expression changes following extinction testing in a heroin behavioral incubation model

Background A number of gene expression studies have investigated changes induced by drug exposure, but few reports describe changes that persist following relapse. In this study, genome-wide analysis of gene expression was conducted following an extinction session (90 min) in rats that expressed behavioral incubation of heroin-seeking and goal-directed behavior. As an important modulator of goal-directed behavior, the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) was the target of genomic analysis. Rats were trained to self-administer heroin during 3 h daily sessions for 14 d. Following the self-administration period, rats were reintroduced to the self-administration chambers for a 90-minute extinction session in which they could seek heroin, but received none. Extinction sessions were conducted on groups after either 1 d or 14 d of drug-free enforced abstinence to demonstrate behavioral incubation.
Work Values in Vocational Interest Exploration.

Abstract Work values as an exploratory construct in vocational choice supplemental to inventoried and expressed vocational interest was examined using 42 ninth graders. Data on Kuder Preference Record-Vocational scores, expressed vocational interest, and work values were converted to comparable bases using Holland's environmental model. Analysis of regression comparing a full model using an three variables to a restricted model deleting work values established work values as a significant, independently explanatory variable [ F (1,39) = 4.45, p
Biochemical Markers in the Assessment of Bone Disease

As the mean age of our population increases, increasing attention has been paid to the diseases associated with aging, including diseases of the skeleton such as osteoporosis. Effective means of treating and possibly preventing such skeletal disorders are emerging, making their early recognition an important goal for the primary care physician. Although bone density measurements and skeletal imaging studies remain of primary diagnostic importance in this regard, a large number of assays for biochemical markers of bone formation and resorption are being developed that promise to complement the densitometry measurements and imaging studies, providing an assessment of the rates of bone turnover and an earlier evaluation of the effects of therapy. In this review, emphasizing the recent literature, the major biochemical markers currently in use or under active investigation are described, and their application in a number of diseases of the skeleton including osteoporosis is evaluated.
Modeling GaAs/AlGaAs/Ag Lasers for Photoacoustic Diagnosis of Bone Density by Photonic and Optical Methods

This work develops models to compute coupling coefficients of semiconductor-metal lasers for photoacoustic diagnosis of bone density variations. Numerical results computed by the photonic and the optical methods have close values.
Adolescents ambivalence about becoming pregnant predicts infrequent contraceptive use: a prospective analysis of nonpregnant African American females.

This study prospectively investigated the hypothesis that ambivalence about becoming pregnant is associated with comparatively less frequent use of contraception. Findings from a sample of sexually active African American adolescent, nonpregnant females (n = 375) supported this hypothesis. Prevention programs may benefit from content designed to redress adolescents' positive beliefs about early parenthood.
A far wing line shape theory and its application to the water vibrational bands (II)

Attention is given to a far wing line shape theory based on binary collision and quasi-static approximations. The theory is applicable for both the LF and HF wings of vibrational-rotational bands. It is used to calculate the frequency and temperature dependence of the continuous absorption coefficient for frequencies up to 10,000/cm for pure water vapor. The results are compared with existing laboratory data in the 2400-2700/cm window and in the 3000-4300/cm band center region, with field measurements in the 2000-2225/cm region and with a recent experimental measurement near 9466/cm. It is concluded that both the magnitude and temperature dependence of the water vapor continuum can be accounted for by the present theory without the introduction of any adjustable parameters. Refinements of the theory and extension to foreign-broadened absorption are also discussed.
Ultrahigh-bandwidth DWDM transmission for short, medium-haul, and metro using low bit rates

Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) multiplexes a number of optical signals at different wavelengths in a single optical fiber. Each optical signal comprises a separate channel, and thus the information capacity per channel is bounded by the modulation speed of the transmitter. Therefore, the engineering parameters that determine the complexity of the fiber span and cost of transporting data depend on the number of channels, channel spectral separation, optical power per signal, bit rate, type of fiber and length of fiber link. Based on these, a determination is made if amplification and what type is needed, if dispersion (chromatic, polarization) is significant, if other non-linear effects are considerable, and in general if there are mitigating parameters that affect the integrity and quality of signal. In this paper we present a parallel transmission WDM method by which high-bandwidth throughput is achieved yet with low modulation bitrates and low power source lasers. This method minimizes dispersion and other nonlinear phenomena over a given span, it greatly enhances the quality of signal, it increases transmission reliability and reduces cost per transported bandwidth in short and mediumhaul, Metro and point-to-point, DWDM applications.