cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capacity Building Through Learning in the Global Internet Governance Fora

Multistakeholder (MSH) collaboration for designing the global regime of Internet Governance (IG) is still in its experimental stage. A consensus has already emerged, though, of the significance of multistakeholderism as the 21 century governmentality, or ideology and practice of global governance. This ‘shared power’ mode of governance replaces the conventional intergovernmental order in a historical moment of exploding collective intelligence and forming/fermenting global consciousness (the Information Society thesis).
Sinagua Painted Armbands

ABSTRACTAn unusual painted fiber armband from Lizard Man Village, and related material from elsewhere, suggest that such artifacts are a rarely documented but consistent feature of Sinagua prehistory. Because they are scarce and perishable, their significance is unclear, but they may be more than decorative.
Novel copolymers of styrene. 2. Oxy ring-substituted propyl 2-cyano-3-phenyl-2-propenoates

ABSTRACTNovel trisubstituted ethylenes, oxy ring-substituted propyl 2-cyano-3-phenyl-2-propenoates, RPhCH˭C(CN)CO2C3H7 (where R is 2-methoxy, 3-methoxy, 4-methoxy, 2-ethoxy, 3-ethoxy, 4-ethoxy, 4-propoxy, 4-butoxy, 3-phenoxy, 4-phenoxy) were prepared and copolymerized with styrene. The monomers were synthesized by the piperidine catalyzed Knoevenagel condensation of oxy ring-substituted benzaldehydes and propyl cyanoacetate and characterized by CHN elemental analysis, IR, 1H- and 13C-NMR. All the ethylenes were copolymerized with styrene (M1) in solution with radical initiation (ABCN) at 70°C. The composition of the copolymers was calculated from nitrogen analysis, and the structures were analyzed by IR, 1H and 13C-NMR, GPC, DSC, and TGA. Decomposition of the copolymers in nitrogen occurred in two steps, first in the 200–500°C range with residue (1.2–3.6% wt.), which then decomposed in the 500–800°C range.
MDM2 case study: Computational protocol utilizing protein flexibility and data mining improves ligand binding mode predictions

Recovery of the P53 tumor suppressor pathway via small molecule inhibitors of onco-protein MDM2 highlights the critical role of computational methodologies in targeted cancer therapies. Molecular docking programs in particular, have become essential during computer-aided drug design by providing a quantitative ranking of predicted binding geometries of small ligands to proteins based on binding free energy. In this study, we found improved ligand binding mode predictions of small medicinal compounds to MDM2 based on RMSD values using AutoDock and AutoDock Vina employing protein binding site flexibility. Additional analysis suggests a data mining protocol using linear regression can isolate the particular flexible bonds necessary for future optimum docking results. The implementation of a flexible receptor protocol based on a priori knowledge obtained from data mining will improve accuracy and reduce costs of high throughput virtual screenings of potential cancer drugs targeting MDM2.
Biogenic Amines in Rett Syndrome

Significant reductions in CSF metabolites of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin are reported in 32 female patients with suspected Rett syndrome from the Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.
Severity and Outcome of Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia gravis (MG) severity and long-term prognosis in seronegative, seropositive, and thymoma MG were studied retrospectively in 4 previously reported series of age and sex-matched consecutive patients at Haukeland University Hospital, University of Bergen, Norway.
The Demography of Prehistoric Fishing/Hunting People: A Case Study of the Upper Columbia Area

The calibrated radiocarbon evidence reveals a bimodal distribution indicating aggregated and dispersed occupations in the Upper Columbia region of North America. Through examining changes in settlement and subsistence in conjunction with dating sequences, we propose a model of population dynamics and their changing amplitude through time. The correlated lines of evidence suggest that population levels show a relationship to changing economic systems as well as social structures. In this paper we map these changes from forager to collector type economic systems as well as generalized to more complex forms of hunter-gatherer socio-systems
Tree Regeneration by Seed in Bottomland Hardwood Forests: A Review

Abstract Bottomland hardwood forests (BLH) are found in temperate, humid regions of the southeastern US, primarily on alluvial floodplains adjacent to rivers. Altered hydrology in rivers and floodplains has caused changes in stand development and species composition of BLHs. We hypothesize that the driving mechanisms behind these changes are related to the regeneration process because of the complexity of recruitment and the vulnerability of species at that age in development. Here we review the state of our understanding regarding BLH regeneration, and identify potential bottlenecks throughout the stages of seed production, seed dispersal, germination, establishment, and survival. Our process-level understanding of regeneration by seed in BLHs is rudimentary, thus limiting our ability to predict the effects of hydrologic alterations on species composition. By focusing future research on the appropriate stages of regeneration, we can better understand the sources of forest-community transitions across the...
Motivations for Compliance With Bracing in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

Abstract Study Design Cross-sectional study. Objective To determine motivations for compliance with bracing among female patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Summary of Background Data Bracing prevents the need for surgery for the majority of girls with AIS with curves of 20° to 40° and 2 or more years of growth remaining. The main obstacle to success is compliance. The factors that either promote or impede compliance previously have not been fully clarified. Methods Participants were females 10 to 16 years of age who were prescribed a brace to be worn 16 hours per day for AIS. Each completed a “Scoliosis Compliance Questionnaire” composed of the SRS-22r and five original sections focused on patients' attitudes to scoliosis, situations in which they found wearing the brace to be most and least difficult, factors that motivate brace wear, and interventions that could potentially improve compliance. Results Thirty-nine subjects completed the study, mean age 13 years (range 11–15 years), at a mean of 15.4 months (range 4–39 months) of brace wear at the time of recruitment. More than 90% of patients stated that their main motivations for compliance were the desire to avoid surgery and to prevent curve progression. Compliance was most challenging during the summer and while at school. Many patients reported pain and skin irritation in the brace. The majority reported they would likely improve their hours of wear if they were able to communicate with a peer in the same situation. SRS-22r scores were similar to those of healthy adolescents. Conclusions The most important influences promoting brace wear are the patient's desire to avoid surgery and to prevent curve progression. Peer support potentially may improve compliance. Level of Evidence Level III.
Crucial Issues in the Applied Analysis of Verbal Behavior: Reflections on Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When the Stakes Are High

A popular-press self-help manual is reviewed with an eye toward two issues. First, the popularity of such books documents the existence of considerable demand for technologies that address the everyday problems (in the present case, troublesome conversations) of nondisordered individuals. Second, many ideas invoked in popular-press books may be interpretable within an analysis of verbal behavior, although much more than casual translation is required to develop technologies that outperform self-help manuals. I discuss several challenges relevant to research, theory refinement, technology development, and dissemination, and conclude that behavioral alternatives to existing popular-press resources may not emerge anytime soon.
Building Prevention into Healthcare Services and in the Community

Prevention efforts can reduce obesity risks for all youth not just youth with autism spectrum disorder or other neurodevelopmental disorders. Prevention includes a wide range of interventions from the caregivers, the primary care providers, school, community, and government (at all levels). Each has a role to play in preventing abnormal weight gain in youth, but many of the prevention efforts are aimed at youth without a disability placing youth with autism spectrum disorder or neurodevelopmental disorder at a higher risk for abnormal weight gain. Coordinated efforts need to be made in order to provide youth with a disability the same opportunities for health as youth without a disability.
Novel use of porcine extracellular matrix in recurrent stricture following repair of tracheoesophageal fistula

Anastomotic stricture is a common complication following repair of esophageal atresia (EA). Many factors are thought to contribute to stricture formation and a variety of management techniques have been developed. In this case report, we describe the treatment of a recurrent anastomotic stricture following repair of long-gap esophageal atresia. Porcine bladder extracellular matrix (ECM) was mounted on a stent and delivered endoscopically to the site of recurrent stricture. An appropriate positioning was confirmed using direct endoscopic visualization and intra-operative fluoroscopy. The patient recovered well with persistent radiographic and functional improvements in previous stricture.
Acute cardiac disease in a patient with hyper-IgE syndrome.

Summary We describe the case of a 24-year-old male with hyper-IgE syndrome (HIES) which was diagnosed at 4 years of age and died from a very rare cardiac complication. He had typical clinical and laboratory manifestations of HIES, including total serum IgE as high as > 100,000 IU/mL. Stem cell transplantation was not available. During the 20-year follow-up, he suffered numerous various infections of the skin and deep organs, partial lung resection, as well as multiple bone fractures. At age 24, he developed acute decompensated heart failure associated with elevated serum troponin I and brain natriuretic protein. Two-dimensional echocardiogram revealed global hypokinesis of the left ventricle with estimated ejection fraction 20-25%, and catheterization revealed ectasia of multiple coronary arteries. Endomyocardial biopsy showed lymphocytic myocarditis, focal necrosis, mild fibrosis, and myxoid degeneration, but cultures were negative. The patient improved on corticosteroid therapy and was discharged on heart failure therapy and external defibrillator. Six weeks later, he developed supraventricular tachycardia and persistent global hypokinesis and was treated with amiodarone. A trial of intravenous immunoglobulin was initiated and was repeated as outpatient every four weeks for four times. However, his cardiac function did not improve and he developed severe hypotension and pulseless electrical activity arrest. Resuscitation was unsuccessful. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of HIES complicated with lymphocytic myocarditis. Both immunologists and cardiologists need to be aware of such a complication and practice caution in using immunosuppressants when the patient's immune status is markedly compromised.
2D materials: Curved paths of electron-hole pairs.

The Hall effect with excitons is observed in monolayers of transition metal dichalcogenides.
The Infoterra Network: A Model of International Information Exchange

The international environmental referral system, known as INFOTERRA, was created by the United Nations Environment Programme following the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm, Sweden, in June 1972. INFOTERRA has become the world’s largest environmental information system with 136 National Focal Points (NFPs) covering 99% of the world’s population. The NFPs link national and international institutions and experts in a cooperative venture to improve the quality of environmental decision making by providing timely global access to environmental data.
Depletion of Glucose Activates Catabolite Repression during Pneumonic Plague

Bacterial pathogenesis depends on changes in metabolic and virulence gene expression in response to changes within a pathogen's environment. The plague-causing pathogen, Yersinia pestis, requires expression of the gene encoding the Pla protease for progression of pneumonic plague. The catabolite repressor protein Crp, a global transcriptional regulator, may serve as the activator of pla in response to changes within the lungs as disease progresses. By using gene reporter fusions, the spatial and temporal activation of the crp and pla promoters was measured in a mouse model of pneumonic plague. In the lungs, crp was highly expressed in bacteria found within large aggregates resembling biofilms, while pla expression increased over time independent of the aggregated state. Increased expression of crp and pla correlated with a reduction in lung glucose levels. Deletion of the glucose-specific phosphotransferase system EIIBC (PtsG) of Y. pestis rescued glucose levels in the lungs, resulting in reduced expression of both crp and pla We propose that activation of pla expression during pneumonic plague is driven by an increase of both Crp and cAMP levels following consumption of available glucose in the lungs by Y. pestis Thus, Crp operates as a sensor linking the nutritional environment of the host to regulation of virulence gene expression.IMPORTANCE Using Yersinia pestis as a model for pneumonia, we discovered that glucose is rapidly consumed, leading to a catabolite-repressive environment in the lungs. As a result, expression of the gene encoding the plasminogen activator protease, a target of the catabolite repressor protein required for Y. pestis pathogenesis, is activated. Interestingly, expression of the catabolite repressor protein itself was also increased in the absence of glucose but only in biofilms. The data presented here demonstrate how a bacterial pathogen senses changes within its environment to coordinate metabolism and virulence gene expression.
Scalp Psoriasis: A Review of the Current Therapies and Case Report of the Successful Use of the Excimer Laser in Recalcitrant Disease:

Psoriasis vulgaris is an extremely common immune-mediated inflammatory disease that affects about 0.6% to 4.8% of the general population worldwide. As reported by several surveys, the most common a...
Harmonizing the Calibrator and Microorganism Used in the Folate Microbiological Assay Increases the Comparability of Serum and Whole-Blood Folate Results in a CDC Round-Robin Study.

Background Harmonizing critical reagents for the folate microbiological assay (MBA) may improve among-laboratory comparability. Objective We assessed the comparability of the MBA for serum folate (S-FOL) and whole-blood folate (WB-FOL) in an international comparison study. Methods Eight laboratories obtained a kit containing CDC microorganism inoculum (chloramphenicol-resistant Lactobacillus rhamnosus), CDC calibrator (5-methyltetrahydrofolate), and 23 serum and WB hemolysate samples each. Laboratories analyzed the samples in single measurement over 2 d using 4 conditions: in-house microorganism and in-house calibrator (IH-MO & IH-CAL), in-house microorganism and CDC calibrator (IH-MO & CDC-CAL), CDC microorganism and in-house calibrator (CDC-MO & IH-CAL), and CDC microorganism and CDC calibrator (CDC-MO & CDC-CAL). We calculated geometric mean concentrations for each laboratory and condition and compared data to the CDC MBA (target). Results The among-laboratory arithmetic mean S-FOL concentrations for the 4 conditions were 30.2, 28.1, 30.0, and 29.9 (group 1, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate IH-CAL) compared with 35.3, 33.3, 33.6, and 30.7 nmol/L (group 2, folic acid IH-CAL), respectively; and 428, 405, 398, and 393 (group 1) compared with 469, 423, 477, and 418 nmol/L (group 2), respectively, for WB-FOL. Differences to the CDC MBA target values were smaller for group 1 (range across conditions; S-FOL: 9.9-21%; WB-FOL: 9.0-18%) compared with group 2 laboratories (S-FOL: 13-30%; WB-FOL: 16-32%) and smaller when CDC reagents were used compared with in-house reagents (S-FOL: 12% compared with 22%; WB-FOL: 13% compared with 25%). A linear mixed model estimated a small microorganism effect (S-FOL: 2.3%; WB-FOL: 2.3%) and a larger mean calibrator effect; folic acid compared with 5-methyltetrahydrofolate calibrator produced 12% higher S-FOL and 15% higher WB-FOL results. When laboratories used CDC reagents, the estimated among-laboratory variability was ∼10% for S-FOL and WB-FOL. Conclusion Harmonizing the calibrator and microorganism for the folate MBA has the potential to improve the among-laboratory comparability in future surveys.
Formal Verification of a Fuzzy Rule-Based Classifier Using the Prototype Verification System

This paper presents the formal specification and verification of a Type-1 (T1) Fuzzy Logic Rule-Based Classifier (FLRBC) using the Prototype Verification System (PVS). A rule-based system models a system as a set of rules, which are either collected from subject matter experts or extracted from data. Unlike many machine learning techniques, rule-based systems provide an insight into the decision making process. In this paper, we focus on a T1 FLRBC. We present the formal definition and verification of the T1 FLRBC procedure using PVS. This helps mathematically verify that the design intent is maintained in its implementation. A highly expressive language such as PVS, which is based on a strongly-typed higher-order logic, allows one to formally describe and mathematically prove that there is no contradiction or false assumption in the procedure. We show this by (1) providing the formal definition of the T1 FLRBC in PVS and then (2) formally proving or deducing rudimentary properties of the T1 FLRBC from the formal specification.
Direct and Indirect Effects of Plant Species on Biogeochemical Processes in Arctic Ecosystems

Predicting how biogeochemical cycles in arctic systems will respond to global environmental change requires knowledge of how environmental change will directly affect biological activities controlling biogeochemical cycles, and whether changes in species’ distributions will further influence such cycles. For example, environmental factors like temperature directly influence processes such as microbial respiration and nutrient mineralization (Marion and Black 1986; Nadelhoffer et al. 1991), photosynthesis (Limbach et al. 1982), plant nutrient uptake (Chapin and Bloom 1976; Chapin and Tryon 1982), and plant growth (Kummerow and Elhs 1984). As such processes respond to environmental change, species’ distributions will shift because of species’ differences in physiological tolerance, indirect effects of environmental change (Chapin 1983), and subsequent changes in competitive hierarchies and/or trophic interactions. Indeed, species’ distributions in arctic ecosystems are quite sensitive to the environmental parameters expected to change in northern ecosystems such as temperature (Chapin and Shaver 1985b; Havstrom et al. 1993), hght (op cit.), nutrient availability (Chapin and Shaver 1985b; Jonasson 1992; Havstrom et al. 1993;), and soil moisture (Chapin et al. 1988; Hastings et al. 1989; Shaver and Chapin 1991).
Technology Transfer from Federal Labs

For purposes of this paper, I define technology transfer as: “The sum total of the communication processes whereby new technology in the form of research ideas is translated into innovative products and services in the market place.” By focusing on technology transfer as a communication process with multiple feedback loops, as shown schematically in Figure 1, we can make the role of the intermediary in this process more evident.
Traducción al español de las normas de atención de la asociación profesional mundial Para la salud del transgénero: Introducción

En los dos ultimos anos, las Normas de Atencion (NDA) de la Asociacion Profesional Mundial para la Salud del Transgenero (WPATH, del ingles World Professional Association for Transgender Health) se...
Comment on ``QCD fragmentation functions for B c and B * c production''

For the inclusive production process of heavy pseudoscalar and vector mesons in e{sup +}e{sup {minus}} annihilation, we have improved the analytic calculation of the fragmentation function of heavy quarks up to {tau}{sup 2}ln({tau}{sup 2}) where {tau}{sup 2}=4m{sup 2}/s, m is the meson mass, and s is the square of the total c.m. energy. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}
Where Does Human Resources Sit at the Strategy Table

Two decades ago, McKinsey advanced the idea that large U.S. companies are engaged in a “war for talent” and that to remain competitive they need to make a strategic effort to attract, retain, and develop the highest-performing executives. To understand the contribution of the human resources department to company strategy, we surveyed 85 CEOs and chief human resources officers at Fortune 1000 companies. In this Closer Look, we examine what these senior executives say about the contribution of HR to the strategic efforts and financial performance of their companies. We ask: • What role does HR play in the development of corporate strategy? • Does HR have an equal voice or is it junior to other members of the senior management team? • Do boards see HR and human capital as critical to corporate performance? • How do boards ascertain whether management has the right HR strategy? • How adept are companies at using data from HR systems to learn what programs work and why?
Identification of undecylenic acid as EAG channel inhibitor using surface plasmon resonance-based screen of KCNH channels

KCNH family of potassium channels is responsible for diverse physiological functions ranging from the regulation of neuronal excitability and cardiac contraction to the regulation of cancer progression. KCNH channels contain a Per-Arn-Sim (PAS) domain in their N-terminal and cyclic nucleotide-binding homology (CNBH) domain in their C-terminal regions. These intracellular domains shape the function of KCNH channels and are important targets for drug development. Here we describe a surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based screening method aimed in identifying small molecule binders of PAS and CNBH domains for three KCNH channel subfamilies: ether-a-go-go (EAG), EAG-related gene (ERG), and EAG-like K+ (ELK). The method involves purification of the PAS and CNBH domains, immobilization of the purified domains on the SPR senor chip and screening small molecules in a chemical library for binding to the immobilized domains using changes in the SPR response as a reporter of the binding. The advantages of this method include low quantity of purified PAS and CNBH domains necessary for the implementation of the screen, direct assessment of the small molecule binding to the PAS and CNBH domains and easiness of assessing KCNH subfamily specificity of the small molecule binders. Using the SPR-based method we screened the Spectrum Collection Library of 2560 compounds against the PAS and CNBH domains of the three KCNH channel subfamilies and identified a pool of small molecules that bind to the PAS or CNBH domains. To further evaluate the effectiveness of the screen we tested the functional effect of one of the identified mEAG PAS domain specific small molecule binders on currents recorded from EAG channels. Undecylenic acid inhibited currents recorded from EAG channels in a concentration-dependent manner with IC50 of ~ 1 μM. Our results show that the SPR-based method is well suited for identifying small molecule binders of KCNH channels and can facilitate drug discovery for other ion channels as well.
Community forest management and forest cover change in Lampung, Indonesia

Abstract Community-based forestry (CBF) is often cited as a way for improving livelihood of local communities while conserving biodiversity and mitigating climate change. However, empirical assessments of CBF outcomes are still lacking, especially for their biophysical conditions. This study investigates the extent to which a type of CBF practices in Indonesia, Community Forest (HKM), managed to maintain forest cover. We applied a propensity scoring approach to empirically measure the rates of deforestation between 2007 and 2016 for Conservation Forests and Protection Forests with and without HKM concessions. Our finding is that HKMs are less effective than Conservation Forests (e.g. National Parks) in reducing forest cover loss, but more effective than other similar forests without CBF management. This is a promising starting point for expanding CBF in Indonesia. We recommend: 1) explicit consideration of biophysical characteristics of CBF locations in designating future sites; 2) providing site-specific financial and technical supports for local communities; 3) utilizing remotely sensed data and propensity scoring for monitoring conservation outcomes.
The Chemistry of Mordançage, a Historic Photographic Process

Based on a 19th century method, the process known as mordancage has been used to dramatically alter black and white photographs since the 1960s. Mordancage subjects a fully developed photograph to a series of wet chemical reactions, beginning with an acidic copper(II) chloride and hydrogen peroxide bleaching solution. Different types of photographic paper, time in mordancage solution, and the concentration of hydrogen peroxide, copper(II) chloride, and acetic acid are all variables that influence the degree of emulsion lift and corresponding veils observed. We conducted experiments to explore these variables and analyzed processed prints using ImageJ to measure changes in pixel intensity and SEM-EDS for compositional analysis. Fiber-based and cotton rag papers resulted in more emulsion lift than resin-coated paper, and increased time in the mordancage solution had similar results. Quantitative analysis of the bleaching solution reveals how the process variables affect the formation of veils, and a process scheme is presented. This work provides insight into the chemical transformations involved in this artistic process.
Quantitative analysis of the applicability limits of the model of a one-dimensional infinite square well

Abstract We discuss the influence of several factors on the deviations from energy spectrum of an infinite square quantum well (QW) for real microscopic systems that can be approximately modelled using particle in a box. We introduce the “blurring” potential in the form of the modified Woods-Saxon potential and solve the corresponding Schrodinger equation. It is found that the increase of the degree of blurring δ of the QW leads to the increase of number of the energy levels inside it and to increase of deviations from the quadratic dependence e (n) (e is the particle energy, n is the energy level number) typical for the infinite square QW, especially, for the energy levels close to the QW “tops”. It is most surprising that for relatively “large” values of δ the difference between the levels energies of such well and the appropriate (with the same n) levels energies of the square QW with the same depth changes sign (from positive to negative) as number n increases. We also conclude that the asymmetry of the QW and non-equality min≠mout (where min and mout are the particle effective mass inside and outside the QW) play a significant role for the relatively “shallow” well near the QW top.
Corroborative Autopsy Findings for Current Concerns After Implantation of Self-Expandable Transcatheter Heart Valve.

An 85-year-old man with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was referred to our institution to treat congestive heart failure caused by severe aortic valve stenosis (AS). Pre-procedural computed tomography assessments showed type 1 functional bicuspid AS with fused right and left coronary cusps ([
Use of an SDN Switch in Support of NIST ICS Security Recommendations and Least Privilege Networking

If an attacker is able to successfully subvert a device within a network, that often gives them easier access to spread the intrusion to other devices in the network. Common guidance, such as that provided in NIST SP 800-82, recommends network separation and segregation to enforce least privilege within a network, to act as a mitigation against such attacks. This paper evaluates the use of SDN network switches to implement least privilege networking within an industrial control system, and maps SDN switch capabilities to NIST 800-82 recommendations and the corresponding NIST 800-53 security controls. This paper also reports on experiments conducted with two SDN switches to validate the effectiveness of the switches in support of these mappings. Our findings indicate that with appropriate planning, several aspects of least privilege networking, and several of the NIST controls can be implemented with an SDN switch. However, poor configurations can still result in insecure systems.
Tunable perovskite-based photodetectors in optical sensing

Abstract Broad- and narrow-band, tunable perovskite photodetectors (PPDs) with size-dependent fast response times are demonstrated for the first time in optical sensing of analytes, including gas-phase and dissolved oxygen (DO), as well as glucose. The sensors included a LED excitation source and a polystyrene film with embedded oxygen-sensitive dyes, PtOEP or PdOEP. The analyte’s dose-dependent photoluminescence (PL) intensity I and decay time τ were measured. Using the PPDs enabled monitoring gas-phase O2 at levels of 0 %–100 % with a sensitivity comparable to that of a Si photodiode. A broad dynamic range was similarly observed for DO monitoring and the limit of detection for glucose monitoring was ∼0.02 mM at an initial level of ∼0.26 mM DO. Importantly, the size-dependent fast response time of the PPDs enabled analyte monitoring via the preferred measurement of τ, rather than I, over a broad dynamic range, which was unattainable with organic photodetectors. The use of the narrow-band PPDs eliminated the need for optical filters, which leads to more compact device designs.
Delayed Multivariable Extremum Seeking with Sequential Predictors

We provide a method for gradient-based multivariable extremum seeking that allows different delays in each input channel. We allow output delays, and for the delays to be arbitrarily long. We use averaging and a perturbation based estimate, but our sequential predictor based approach provides a useful alternative to the distributed terms that were used in earlier delay compensation approaches to extremum seeking. We illustrate our approach in a source seeking example.
Frequent, Timed Coding Tests for Training and Assessment of Full-Stack Web Development Skills: An Experience Report

This experience report describes the use of frequent, timed coding tests in a project-intensive software engineering course in which students first learn full-stack web development using Ruby on Rails and then apply their skills in a team project. The goal of the skills tests was twofold: (1) to help motivate students to engage in distributed practice and, thus, gain adequate coding skills to be an effective team member during the team project and (2) to accurately assess whether students had acquired the requisite skills and, thereby, catch deficiencies early, while there was still time to address them. Regarding the first goal, although several students indicated that the tests motivated them to engage in substantial practice coding, it was ultimately inconclusive as to the extent of the tests' impact on students' distributed practice behavior and on their preparation for the project. Regarding the second goal, the skills testing approach was indeed considerably more effective than graded homework assignments for assessing coding skill and detecting struggling students early. Lessons learned from our experiences included that students had significant concerns about the strict time limit on the tests, that the tests caused a spike in mid-semester withdrawals from the course that disproportionately impacted students from underrepresented groups, and that detecting struggling students was one thing, but effectively helping them catch up was a whole other challenge.
Seller marketing capability, brand reputation, and consumer journeys on e-commerce platforms

Seller marketing capability and brand reputation are central to firm performance and customer behaviors. However, little is known about how these two dimensions matter in the increasingly important domain of e-commerce platforms, where sellers are diverse and brand reputations are challenged. This research examines the effects of marketing capability and brand reputation on key customer purchase journey outcomes on e-commerce platforms, from click to browsing time, purchase, and post-purchase frustration. Using smartphone category data from a leading e-commerce platform, the authors demonstrate the positive and increasing effect of marketing capability on consumer journey outcomes. This research also paints a more nuanced view of brand reputation in e-commerce platform environments and illustrates nuanced U-shaped effects of brand reputation on consumer journey outcomes. These findings provide implications for brands and sellers on e-commerce platforms.
Regulation of gene expression in the tumor environment

Preface Chapter 1: Regulation of Melnoma Progression by the Tumor Microenvironment: the Roles of PAR-1 and PAFR. Gabriel J. Villares and Menashe Bar-Eli Chapter 2: Functions of Autocrine Motility Factor at the Tumor Microenvironment. Tatsuyoshi Funasaka and Avraham Raz Chapter 3: Targeting Signaling Pathways - in the search of Melanoma's Achilles' heel. Nikolas K. Haass, Christoph Hoeller and Meenhard Herlyn Chapter 4: Regulation of Gene Expression in Tumor and Non-Tumor Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment. Impact of ErbB2 Over-Expression on Tumor and Tumor Microenvironment that facilitate tumor progression and metastasis. Valerie Stone Hawthorne and Dihua Yu Chapter 5: Intercellular and Cytoskeletal Signaling Converge at PAK's. Anupama E. Gururaj and Rakesh Kumar Chapter 6: Molecular Basis for Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression Tumor. Keping Xie and James Yao Chapter 7: Incipent Event in Human carcinogenesis: A Concept of Forerunner Genes. Bogdan Czerniak
Using the Health Belief Model for Bulimia Prevention

The author discusses application of the Health Belief Model to bulimia prevention (reduction of bulimic-like behaviors of food obsessions, bingeing, and various forms of purging). She considers the individual's beliefs about bulimia and bulimic-like behaviors as a means of predicting the likelihood of behavior change to prevent clinically diagnosable bulimia, includes a description of each Health Belief Model component, and offers implications for further research.
Applied techniques for high bandwidth data transfers across wide area networks

Large distributed systems such as Computational/Data Grids require large amounts of data to be co-located with the computing facilities for processing. Ensuring that the data is there in time for the computation in today's Internet is a massive problem. From our work developing a scalable distributed network cache, we have gained experience with techniques necessary to achieve high data throughput over high bandwidth Wide Area Networks (WAN). In this paper, we discuss several hardware and software design techniques and issues, and then describe their application to an implementation of an enhanced FTP protocol called GridFTP. We also describe results from two applications using these techniques, which were obtained at the Supercomputing 2000 conference.
Hydroides Elegans (Annelida: Polychaeta): A Model for Biofouling Research

The small serpulid polychaete Hydroides elegans is a problem fouling organism in warm water marine harbors around the world. Often the first significant animal biofouler on newly submerged surfaces, its calcareous tubes can accumulate rapidly and create serious problems for ships. H. elegans is easily adapted for laboratory biofouling research because of its rapid generation time (~3 wks) and ease of propagation. The dioecious adult worms spawn readily in the laboratory, and their metamorphically competent larvae develop in ~5 d at 25 oC. The larvae of H. elegans settle in response to natural biofilms or films formed by many, but not all, single marine bacterial species. Tubes of H. elegans adhere very tightly to surfaces and are more resistant to dislodgement than many barnacles. Thus, H. elegans is an excellent model organism for experimental studies, including tests of newly formulated marine coatings.
Designing an American Sign Language Avatar for Learning Computer Science Concepts for Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Students and Deaf Interpreters.

Abstract : The current learning process of Deaf or Hard of Hearing (D/HH) students taking Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) courses needs, in general, a sign interpreter for the translation of English text into American Sign Language (ASL) signs. This method is at best impractical due to the lack of availability of a specialized sign interpreter and at worst nearly valueless as complex STEM concepts do not yet have an associated meaningful ASL sign. This paper describes a practical software signing avatar, called Lamar University’s Signing Avatar (LUSA). This paper includes an evaluation of how the D/HH students and sign interpreters will acquire knowledge of complex Computer Science concepts using LUSA. Similar projects that use signing avatars for learning process focus on K-8 grade concepts. LUSA will establish a new form of direct instruction that can be extended to other courses at universities with D/HH students and interpreters. Keywords: Accessibility, Learning Tool, American Sign Language.
Rapidly "Bit-reversing" data for the past Fourier transform

In most variations of the Fast Fourier Transforms, the data to be transformed must be permuted in a peculiar way either before or after the trigonometric calculations. On typical computer implementations, this adds from 10% to 25% to the running time. Besides the actual data exchanges, much time is consumed computing which data to exchange. The technique described here permits this permutation to be performed on any computer, without special hardware, with very little time for the determination of the exchange indices, and with very little additional storage. It is most useful when the number of points to be permuted is fixed.
Protocatechuate 3,4-Dioxygenase

A key step in the degradation of aromatic compounds in the biosphere is the ring-opening step. Intradiol dioxygenases typically use a nonheme ferric iron to activate the substrate for an electrophilic attack by molecular oxygen to cleave catechol derivatives between the vicinal hydroxyls. Protocatechuate 3,4-dioxygenase (PCD) has been the most thoroughly studied of the intradiol dioxygenases because of the presence of optical and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopic signals. The structures of PCD from Pseudomonas putida and Acinetobacter calcoaceticus alone and in complexes with more than a dozen substrates and inhibitors have been used to visualize steps in substrate binding and ligand dissociation. 3D Structure Keywords: iron; non-Heme Proteins; mononuclear Iron Proteins; enzyme; protocatechuate 3; 4-dioxygenase; EC 1.13.11.13; non-heme iron oxidoreductase
Differential Modulation of Human Melanoma Cell Metalloproteinase Expression by α2β1 Integrin and CD44 Triple-helical Ligands Derived from Type IV Collagen

Tumor cell binding to components of the basement membrane is well known to trigger intracellular signaling pathways. Signaling ultimately results in the modulation of gene expression, facilitating metastasis. Type IV collagen is the major structural component of the basement membrane and is known to be a polyvalent ligand, possessing sequences bound by the α1β1, α2β1, and α3β1 integrins, as well as cell surface proteoglycan receptors, such as CD44/chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG). The role of α2β1 integrin and CD44/CSPG receptor binding on human melanoma cell activation has been evaluated herein using triple-helical peptide ligands incorporating the α1(IV)382–393 and α1(IV)1263–1277 sequences, respectively. Gene expression and protein production of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (MMP-1), -2, -3, -13, and -14 were modulated with the α2β1-specific sequence, whereas the CD44-specific sequence yielded significant stimulation of MMP-8 and lower levels of modulation of MMP-1, -2, -13, and -14. Analysis of enzyme activity confirmed different melanoma cell proteolytic potentials based on engagement of either the α2β1 integrin or CD44/CSPG. These results are indicative of specific activation events that tumor cells undergo upon binding to select regions of basement membrane collagen. Based on the present study, triple-helical peptide ligands provide a general approach for monitoring the regulation of proteolysis in cellular systems.
Clinical Course of Breast Cancer Patients with Isolated Sternal and Full-Thickness Chest Wall Recurrences Treated With and Without Radical Surgery

The role and outcome of radical surgery in contemporary multidisciplinary management of breast cancer patients presenting with isolated sternal or full-thickness chest wall (SCW) recurrence are undefined compared with patients treated without surgery. Detailed analyses of all patients with isolated SCW recurrence treated from 1992 to 2011 at a large cancer institution were performed. Univariate and multivariate comparisons of clinicopathologic and treatment characteristics were analyzed. Overall and progression-free survival were compared using the Kaplan–Meier method. Seventy-six patients were identified, 44 treated surgically and 32 nonsurgically. Overall survival at 5 years was not statistically different between patients who underwent surgery and those who did not (30.6 and 49.6 %, respectively; P = 0.52) although patients selected for surgery presented with more advanced and biologically aggressive disease. Surgically treated patients were more likely to have triple-negative breast cancer at recurrence (52 vs. 17 %; P = 0.006). Among surgical patients, 95 % received preoperative systemic therapy. Clinical response with systemic therapy was significantly different, with surgically treated patients more likely to have responsive or stable disease (54 vs. 25 %, P = 0.04). Complications related to radical surgical resection occurred in 25 % of patients. For hormone receptor–positive recurrence, 5-year progression-free survival was significantly higher among surgical patients (46.3 vs. 14.5 %; P = 0.01). Among patients with isolated SCW recurrence, hormone receptor-positive recurrence is associated with improved survival. Systemic therapy should be the initial treatment, and clinical response can be used to help select patients who may benefit from radical resection.
Effect of interleukin-1 alpha on lipoprotein lipids in cynomolgus monkeys: comparison to tumor necrosis factor.

Abstract Acute inflammation is associated with changes in lipoprotein metabolism. Cytokines are thought to mediate the metabolic effects of the inflammatory process. This study was undertaken to compare the effects of interleukin-1α (IL-1α) to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) on lipoprotein metabolism in non-human primates. Recombinant human IL-1α (100 μg/kg), TNFα (20 μg/kg) and lipopolysaccharide (20 μg/kg) were injected into cynomolgus monkeys. Lipoprotein concentrations, plasma activities of post-heparin lipase (PHLA) and lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) were measured prior to and 24 and 48 h after, injection. All three injectates caused afebrile response in the animals. Interleukin-1α had no effect on plasma lipoprotein concentrations, composition of lipoproteins or enzyme activity. In contrast, injection of TNF caused significant changes in lipoprotein concentrations. There was a 38% increase in plasma triacylglycerol and 30% decrease in plasma cholesterol at 48 h after injection. Concentrations of apolipoproteins A-I and B were decreased 20% and 44%, respectively, at 48 h. Compositional analyses of lipoprotein particles after TNF injection showed that both the LDL and HDL particles had decreased content of cholesterol ester and increased triacylglycerol after injection, and plasma activities of PHLA and LCAT were decreased. These changes were qualitatively similar to those seen after LPS injection. These data suggest that, unlike TNF, IL-1α is not an important mediator of the inflammatory process on lipoprotein metabolism in cynomolgus monkeys.
The Effects of Mood States on Service Contact Strategies

ABSTRACT Mood states have generated considerable activity in many diverse fields, including psychology and marketing. While this research has been extended to include a variety of applications, the uniqueness of services provides a particularly sound environment to apply mood states and their effects on persuasion. In this context, this article reviews current applications of moods, and addresses how they can be strategically used to facilitate persuasion by service marketers who have contact with clients.
Utilizing a Cycle Simulation to Examine the Use of EGR for a Spark-Ignition Engine Including the Second Law of Thermodynamics

The use of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) for a spark-ignition engine was examined using a thermodynamic cycle simulation including the second law of thermodynamics. Both a cooled and an adiabatic EGR configuration were considered. The engine was a 5.7 liter, automotive engine operating from idle to wide open throttle, and up to 6000 rpm. First, the reduction of nitric oxides is quantified for the base case condition (bmep = 325 kPa, 1400 rpm, φ = 1.0 and MBT timing). Over 90% reduction of nitric oxides is obtained with about 18% EGR for the cooled configuration, and with about 26% EGR for the adiabatic configuration. For constant load and speed, the thermal efficiencies increase with increasing EGR for both configurations, and the results show that this increase is mainly due to decreasing pumping losses and decreasing heat losses. In addition, results from the second law of thermodynamics indicated an increase in the destruction of availability (exergy) during the combustion process as EGR levels increase for both configurations. The major reason for this increase in the destruction of availability was the decrease in the combustion temperatures. Complete results for the availability destruction are provided for both configurations.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
What Divides the Subject? Psychoanalytic Reflections on Subjectivity, Subjection and Resistance

The paper argues that the meaning of subjectivity is controversial, even within psychoanalysis. While all schools of psychoanalysis agree that the unconscious creates a subjectivity that is divided, there is great disagreement over what divides the subject, particularly what divides it against itself. The paper examines two controversies that bear on the relation of subjectivity and subjection. The author argues that a psycho-social theory of subjectivity has to account for the effects of the social without succumbing to the reductionism of social determinism, and has to account for the idiosyncrasies of human subjectivity without removing subjectivity from its social and historical context. The author roots one relation between subjectivity, subjection, and resistance in what she calls “normative unconscious processes”: unconscious collusions with normative demands to split off and project such human attributes as dependency, emotion, and assertion. Subjects comply with such demands in order to be recognized as “properly” gendered, raced, classed, and sexed subjects, but relational repetition compulsions often express simultaneous resistance to and collusion with oppressive norms.