cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Computational and statistical models: a comparison for policy modeling of childhood obesity

As systems science methodologies have begun to emerge as a set of innovative approaches to address complex problems in behavioral, social science, and public health research, some apparent conflicts with traditional statistical methodologies for public health have arisen. Computational modeling is an approach set in context that integrates diverse sources of data to test the plausibility of working hypotheses and to elicit novel ones. Statistical models are reductionist approaches geared towards proving the null hypothesis. While these two approaches may seem contrary to each other, we propose that they are in fact complementary and can be used jointly to advance solutions to complex problems. Outputs from statistical models can be fed into computational models, and outputs from computational models can lead to further empirical data collection and statistical models. Together, this presents an iterative process that refines the models and contributes to a greater understanding of the problem and its potential solutions. The purpose of this panel is to foster communication and understanding between statistical and computational modelers. Our goal is to shed light on the differences between the approaches and convey what kinds of research inquiries each one is best for addressing and how they can serve complementary (and synergistic) roles in the research process, to mutual benefit. For each approach the panel will cover the relevant "assumptions" and how the differences in what is assumed can foster misunderstandings. The interpretations of the results from each approach will be compared and contrasted and the limitations for each approach will be delineated. We will use illustrative examples from CompMod, the Comparative Modeling Network for Childhood Obesity Policy. The panel will also incorporate interactive discussions with the audience on the issues raised here.
An attempt to immunize the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, with vertebrate red blood cells.

Nous avons essaye d'augmenter le titre de l'hemagglutinine naturelle qui se trouve dans le serum du crabe bleu,Callinectes sapidus, par l'inoculation d'hematies de vertebres. On a note une augmentation legere de ce titre apres 48 h, mais elle n'etait apparemment pas specifique, puisque on peut la provoquer avec l'antigene heterologique et une solution saline ainsi que l'antigene homologique. Il appert qu'il s'agit la d'une reponse interieure defensive et non-specifique due a quelque force exterieure.
Some properties of the Sobolev-Laguerre polynomials

Abstract In this paper, we study the case α = 0 of the Sobolev-Laguerre polynomials. We determine a generating function for the polynomials and an expansion formula
PIV through moving shocks with refracting curvature

Particle image velocimetry (PIV) is applied to moving millimeter shock waves whose density jump and small radii of curvature make refraction significant. The motion of the shock front is also much larger than the motion of the corresponding mass at the front. A Lagrangian model of particle displacement in response to a moving shock is developed to investigate the relationship between particle displacements and the actual mass velocity behind the shock. Errors in PIV measurements due to light refraction across a curved, moving shock are investigated in terms of both position and velocity errors using a refraction model developed from geometrical optics. The model is experimentally validated and applied to 1-D slices of data extracted from PIV vector fields, and the resulting measurement errors are quantified.
International gifted women: Developing a critical human resource

Gifted women in developing nations constitute a valuable human resource in terms of potential contributions to social, technological, and economic progress. To increase understanding of gifted women around the globe, this article presents the results of a study designed to investigate factors affecting lifespan achievement as perceived by 16 highly select, academically achieving women from 15 countries outside the United States. Data were collected through a combination of individual written questionnaires and focus groups. Specific questions concerned the women's perceptions of factors that encouraged or discouraged their achievement over time and strategies they used to cope with obstacles. Results indicated that gifted women from highly diverse countries share personal characteristics of determination, love of learning, willingness to take risks, and an indomitable will to achieve their goals. Most attributed their success to their own motivation and to family support. Where families were perceived as ...
Crossmodal training reduces behavioral deficits in rats after either auditory or visual cortex lesions

Abstract Rats were trained with either visual or auditory intensity cues until they emitted nine avoidance responses in 10 trials ( 9 10 ) prior to bilateral ablation of the corresponding sensory neocortex. Six days after surgery, rats were trained to 5 10 criterion in one of the following conditions: within-modality direct, within-modality reversal, crossmodality direct, crossmodality reversal, or no training control. The next day all rats were retrained to 9 10 on their preoperative tasks. For visual decorticate rats, the no training and the visual within-modality direct groups relearned the discrimination at the same rate as preoperative learning. Auditory crossmodal direct training enhanced relearning more than other forms of training and visual within-modality reversal training hindered retraining. For auditory decorticate rats, similar postoperative auditory within-modality and visual crossmodality training effects were seen during retraining of the auditory discrimination. These findings suggest crossmodality training facilitates functional recovery through relational information and learning sets transferred from experimental training to the relearning task.
CONJOINT MARRIAGE THERAPY WITH A HUSBAND‐AND‐WIFE TEAM

Husband-and-wife therapists treating couples conjointly add a dimension of reality not available with unmarried co-therapists. This paper discusses the advantages of heterosexual therapy with couples. It then describes the differentness of transference and identification when the therapists are also a couple, the problems of tension between the therapists, selection of therapist couples, and the personality patterns of patients treated.
A case of trichotillomania in a three year old treated by response prevention

Abstract Trichotillomania (chronic hair-pulling) in a 3 yr old boy was successfully treated by his mother after she had been trained to reinforce appropriate play behaviour and ignore hair-pulling. Seventeen days had passed without recurrence of hair-pulling when the mother terminated treatment and hair-pulling returned to baseline levels. The mother refused to reinstate the initial treatment procedure but finally agreed to a response prevention procedure—trimming the child's hair—which immediately terminated hair-pulling. A six month follow-up revealed no reappearance of hair-pulling or other problem behavior. This study demonstrates the successful treatment of trichotillomania through a minimally intrusive response prevention procedure.
Another proof of Wilmes' conjecture

We present a new proof of the monomial case of Wilmes' conjecture, which gives a formula for the coarsely-graded Betti numbers of the G-parking function ideal in terms of maximal parking functions of contractions of G. Our proof is via poset topology and relies on a theorem of Gasharov, Peeva, and Welker (1999) that connects the Betti numbers of a monomial ideal to the topology of its lcm-lattice.
Choosing group projects for advanced systems courses

This paper addresses the selection of projects for advanced information systems and software engineering courses and proposes criteria for group projects which gives students genuine real-world experience in the classroom. A curriculum for an advanced systems workshop is presented and a sample project with group interdependence and its prototyping under UNIX is described.
On skirted drops in an immiscible liquid

Large drops rising or sinking in an immiscible liquid can develop thin trailing structures commonly referred to as “skirts”. The paper describes a mathematical model for the thickness of these skirts accounting for the viscous boundary layer that develops along the surface of the parent drop and of the skirt itself. Unlike earlier theories, the skirt thickness is found to decrease with distance from the drop rim, which illuminates the mechanism which terminates the skirt at a finite length. A scaling of the skirt length is suggested by an analysis of published data, which also leads to a scaling for the volume of liquid in the skirt. The theoretical predictions are compared with the few experimental results for which sufficiently detailed information is available.
Unauthorized firesetting as socioecological disturbance: a spatiotemporal analysis of incendiary wildfires in Georgia, USA, 1987-2010

I analyzed the spatiotemporal patterning of intentional, unauthorized landscape fires in the state of Georgia, USA, for the years 1987 through 2010 with the aim of delineating socioecological constraints on and firesetter preferences for the timing and placement of ignitions. Unauthorized fires represent complex phenomena through which actors compete over social and ecological outcomes that transcend the spatiotemporal confines of individual fires themselves. Current classificatory systems define unauthorized firesetting behavior as irrational, destructive, and malicious. Because landscape fires cause both positive and negative consequences for biological diversity and ecosystems services, perceived costs and benefits of fires are contestable and relative to point of view. The locational and temporal patterns of unauthorized landscape fires examined in this study do not show firesetter preferences for maximizing damage to landscapes. Instead, unauthorized fires in Georgia potentially contribute to the maintenance of landscapes adapted to frequent, dormant- and early growing-season fire regimes.
Correlations and fluctuations in reflection coefficients for coherent wave propagation in disordered scattering media

The relation between the reflection coefficients and the Green's function for a coherent wave propagation in a disordered elastic-scattering medium is derived. The sum rule of the reflection and transmission coefficients corresponding to probability conservation is shown rigorously for an arbitrary scattering potential. The correlation function of the reflection coefficients is then calculated by using a Feynman-diagrammatic approach in the weak-localized multiple-scattering regime (L\ensuremath{\gg}l\ensuremath{\gg}\ensuremath{\lambda}). The result is in agreement with recent experiments on the so-called ``memory effect'' in reflection coefficients. A more general condition under which the memory effect can occur is derived. Differences between the the correlation functions for reflection and that for transmission are discussed.
Social Support During the Postpartum Period: Mothers’ Views on Needs, Expectations, and Mobilization of Support

Research has indicated that social support is a major buffer of postpartum depression. Yet little is known concerning women’s perceptions on social support during the postpartum period. The objective of this study was to explore postpartum women’s views and experiences with social support following childbirth. Four focus groups were conducted with an ethnically diverse sample of women (n = 33) in a large urban teaching hospital in New York City. Participants had completed participation in a postpartum depression randomized trial and were 6–12 months postpartum. Data transcripts were reviewed and analyzed for themes. The main themes identified in the focus group discussions were mother’s major needs and challenges postpartum, social support expectations and providers of support, how mothers mobilize support, and barriers to mobilizing support. Women across all groups identified receipt of instrumental support as essential to their physical and emotional recovery. Support from partners and families was expected and many women believed this support should be provided without asking. Racial/ethnic differences existed in the way women from different groups mobilized support from their support networks. Instrumental support plays a significant role in meeting women’s basic needs during the postpartum period. In addition, women’s expectations surrounding support can have an impact on their ability to mobilize support among their social networks. The results of this study suggest that identifying support needs and expectations of new mothers is important for mothers’ recovery after childbirth. Future postpartum depression prevention efforts should integrate a strong focus on social support.
Sebaceous Gland Differentiation: III. The Uses and Limitations of Freshly Isolated Mouse Preputial Gland Cells for the in Vitro Study of Hormone and Drug Action

The effects of selected hormones and drugs on freshly isolated mouse preputial gland cells have been studied. The steroid hormones, testosterone, DHT, androstanediol, androsterone and androstanedione all failed to stimulate and estradiol failed to inhibit, either DNA or lipid synthesis under the conditions studied. Thyroxine and insulin had no effect on lipogenesis but epinephrine and PGE 2 caused significant stimulation as did Bt 2 cAMP. The antilipemic drugs clofibrate, nicotinic acid and hydroxycitrate were all able to inhibit lipogenesis. Of the anti-acne drugs only L-DOPA was able to inhibit lipogenesis, neither tetracycline nor trans -retinoic acid showed any effect. Pyridoxine was unable to inhibit lipogenesis but DMSO caused dramatic stimulation though it was without effect on DNA synthesis. Evidence is presented which suggests that the lack of response to steroid hormones is not due to the inability of the cells to take up and metabolize the steroids but is due to the fact that the time-span of exposure is not long enough to elicit a cellular response. It is concluded that these freshly isolated cells are suitable for the study of those effects of hormones and drugs which occur within the first 3hr after exposure to the compound.
Movement fields of saccade-related burst neurons in the monkey superior colliculus

The presaccadic burst of superior colliculus (SC) neurons was examined in detail to determine whether or not information concerning the vector components (amplitude and direction) of a saccade is contained within the burst. Results indicate that the pattern of spike activity originating from a single saccade-related burst neuron in the SC does not encode saccade direction or amplitude. Identical discharges may precede a wide range of saccades. Neither the magnitude, configuration nor timing of the discharge are related in any unique way to the duration of the saccade alone or the amplitude of the saccade alone. Furthermore, it is unlikely that information concerning saccade amplitude or direction is encoded by different types of signals originating from different SC neurons. For different neurons, there is no consistent relationship between the parameters of the burst and the optimal saccade amplitude or direction. It is suggested that the discharge of saccade-related burst neurons of the SC serves as a trigger input to pontine circuitry generating the required saccadic burst signals. Information concerning saccade direction and amplitude is not contained within the trigger signal, but must be extracted from the spatial distribution of SC activity.
Neoliberalism, Globalization, and the American Universities in Eastern Europe: Tensions and Possibilities in ‘Exported’ Higher Education

This article explores the presence of US institutions of higher education in Eastern Europe as one facet of the neoliberal global environment. It draws on policy documents, institutional statistics, materials produced by interest groups and NGOs, official mission statements, press releases and media coverage, and personal narratives. The American University in Bulgaria is examined as a case of this wider phenomenon. Exclusively structuralist, critical analyses of such institutions can easily lead to conclusions of homogenization and dominance through the hegemony of ‘exporter’ education institutions and programs. Post-structural analysis—attuned to multiplicities of meanings, nuances of context, and complex interplays of power and knowledge claims—allow for more attention to the local dynamics, while human interpretation and agency may point the way to more hopeful roles for US institutions of higher education abroad. In turn, these roles may challenge the one-way deterministic flow of influence suggested...
The validity of self-reported weight loss and weight gain efforts in adolescents

There has been a proliferation of epidemiological survey studies of weight reducing and eating behaviors in adolescents; however, the validity of these self-report questionnaires has received little attention. The present study was designed to determine whether self-report measures of efforts to lose or gain weight and use of specific weight control methods are consistent with other measures. There were 98 high school volunteers who completed a questionnaire about weight change efforts. Parallel versions of the questionnaire were also returned by a parent and a friend or sibling. There were 165 high school subjects who completed the questionnaire and also recorded food intake, exercise, and various weight control methods for 7 days. External raters agreed with subjects' reports that they were trying to lose weight, and weight losers consumed much less food according to their eating records. Self-reported weight gainers consumed much more food than others, but agreement with external raters was lower. External raters agreed with subjects who reported skipping meals and exercising to lose weight, and the subjects exhibited these behaviors more frequently in their eating records. However, there was low consistency between the self-report questionnaire and external measures of drastic weight control behaviors, such as vomiting and fasting. With the exception of drastic weight control behaviors, the results of this study are generally positive for the validity of self-report questionnaires.
Surgical and radiosurgical results of the treatment of cerebral arteriovenous malformations.

Microsurgical resection of a cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) allows for an immediate therapeutic cure. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a reasonable alternative for inoperable or high-risk lesions requiring treatment. Few series evaluate overall results that include data from both modalities as they more often focus on their treatment method of choice. In this study, we evaluated our AVM database of 129 patients seen over the past eight years at our institution: 73 were treated with microsurgery (57%) while 37 (29%) were treated with SRS. We reviewed angiographic obliteration rates, complication rates, and outcome data, excluding seven patients treated with SRS as they did not have at least two years of angiographic follow-up. Patients undergoing microsurgery had smaller AVM (mean 2.2 cm compared to 3.5 cm for SRS), a smaller proportion of eloquent AVM (53% compared to 83% for SRS), a greater proportion of AVM with superficial drainage only (75% compared to 40% for SRS), and more grade 1 and 2 AVM (78% compared to 17% for SRS). The overall obliteration rate was 80%: 92% for microsurgery and 50% for SRS. The latter increased to 92% for AVM 3 cm. Transient complications, including post-SRS hemorrhage, were seen in 11% of patients overall (8% after microsurgery, 17% after SRS). At follow-up, 53% of patients had improved, 37% remained the same, 7% had become worse and 3% had died. As a result of post-SRS hemorrhage, a greater proportion of patients was worse or had died after SRS (20%) compared to those who had been treated with microsurgery (5%).
Liquid gradient zone electrophoresis in removable capsules for accurate sampling.

Abstract A unique new apparatus provides a simple method for performing zonal density gradient and pH gradient electrophoresis in a capsule. The capsule (a column with removable top and bottom caps) with preformed gradient is inserted into the U-tube, top and bottom caps are removed, and electrophoresis is performed. For sampling, caps are replaced and the capsule is withdrawn from the U-tube. Gradient is then pumped out through a cone-shaped cap and capillary, through a monitor, and into a fraction collector. The instrument also makes possible simultaneous electrophoresis in several separate columns. Convenient and rapid interchange of capsules permits nearly continuous operation.
Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Immigrant Asian and Middle-Eastern Women in the United States

TEXT: Effects of overweight and obesity on the prevalence of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) were investigated in two ethnic groups in the US: Asian and Middle-Eastern (M-E). Prenatal and delivery records of 567 patients (231 Asian and 336 M-E) from two private practice Obstetrics-Gynecology offices were reviewed. Subjects were screened for GDM at 24-28 weeks gestation. Those with plasma glucose 138 mg/dl underwent a 3-hour, 100g glucose tolerance test for diagnosis of GDM by the physician. Overall GDM prevalence (cases/100) was 6.5. Prevalence of 10.0 for Asian women was higher than the 4.2 for M-E women (p 0.006), and 2.7 for a non-Hispanic White population from a previous state-derived study (p 0.000). Women diagnosed with GDM (GDM ) were heavier than women with normal glucose tolerance (GDM ). Average BMI was 25.4 4.7 vs 21.5 3.2 (p 0.000) for Asian women, and 29.1 5.8 vs 25.2 4.6 (p 0.001) for M-E women. Relative risk for developing GDM for women with BMI 25 versus women with BMI 25 was 2.5 for Asians and 1.4 for M-E women. Compared to M-E women, Asians were older (p 0.000), less parous (p 0.000), and had lower BMI (p 0.000). A higher percentage of GDM Asians had pregravida BMI 25 (p 0.024), gained excessive weight (p 0.000), and had prior history of GDM (p 0.023) than the GDM Asians. More GDM M-E women had a family history of diabetes (p 0.003) and delivered heavier babies (p 0.032) than the GDM women. Ethnicity and obesity were important risk factors for developing GDM in this sample.
Magnetic resonance imaging contrast of iron oxide nanoparticles developed for hyperthermia is dominated by iron content

AbstractPurpose: Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MNPs) are used as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and hyperthermia for cancer treatment. The relationship between MRI signal intensity and cellular iron concentration for many new formulations, particularly MNPs having magnetic properties designed for heating in hyperthermia, is lacking. In this study, we examine the correlation between MRI T2 relaxation time and iron content in cancer cells loaded with various MNP formulations. Materials and methods: Human prostate carcinoma DU-145 cells were loaded with starch-coated bionised nanoferrite (BNF), iron oxide (Nanomag® D-SPIO), Feridex™, and dextran-coated Johns Hopkins University (JHU) particles at a target concentration of 50 pg Fe/cell using poly-D-lysine transfection reagent. T2-weighted MRI of serial dilutions of these labelled cells was performed at 9.4 T and iron content quantification was performed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Clonogenic assay wa...
Vibration-torsion interaction in the microwave spectrum of internally hydrogen-bonded methylmalonaldehyde

Abstract The microwave spectrum of methylmalonaldehyde has been measured and the molecule shown to be in an intramolecularly hydrogen-bonded (chelate ring) form in the gas phase. The spectrum shows the effects of two large amplitude internal motions: the torsion of the methyl group about its symmetry axis and the tunneling of the hydrogen-bond hydrogen through a potential barrier to an equivalent position (combined with an appropriate CH3 rotation). The two motions are coupled through the torsion-inversion potential energy term of threefold symmetry in the torsional coordinate. A two vibration-plus-rotation model is developed and applied to explain the sizeable perturbations of the pure rotational transitions from a rigid rotor pattern in four ground-state sublevels. The observed torsion-inversion splittings in the nondegenerate level (2.8004 cm−1 for OCHC(CH 3 )CHOH , 0.35920 cm−1 for OCHC(CH 3 )CHOD and 0.92590 cm−1 for OCHC(CD 3 )CHOH) are quite well determined and, as expected, depend strongly upon appropriate isotopic substitutions. The experimentally derived parameters are discussed in terms of an effective inversion-torsion potential surface. The data are not in disagreement with a range of barrier values determined from comparison of ab initio full geometry-optimized and constrained C2v geometry-optimized molecular orbital calculations. Because of the expected isotope dependence of the effective surface and the large number of parameters involved, it is not clear whether more accurate fitting to the data is justified.
High Mobility 4H-SiC MOSFETs Using Lanthanum Silicate Interface Engineering and ALD Deposited SiO2

In this work, we have developed a novel gate stack to enhance the mobility of Si face (0001) 4H-SiC lateral MOSFETs while maintaining a high threshold voltage. The gate dielectric consists a thin lanthanum silicate layer at SiC/dielectric interface and SiO2 deposited by atomic layer deposition. MOSFETs using this interface engineering technique show a peak field effect mobility of 133.5 cm2/Vs while maintaining a positive threshold voltage of above 3V. The interface state density measured on MOS capacitor with lanthanum silicate interfacial layers is reduced compared to the capacitors without the silicate. It is shown that the presence of the lanthanum at the interface reduces the formation of a lower quality SiOx interfacial layer typically formed at the SiC surface during typical high temperature anneals. This better quality interfacial layer produces a sharp SiC/dielectric interface, which is confirmed by cross section Z-contrast STEM images.
Spontaneous resolution of a syrinx.

Syrinx are often related to trauma, tumours or abnormalities of the craniocervical junction. Only a few cases of spontaneous resolution have been reported in the literature. The authors present a case of spontaneous resolution of a cervical syrinx, and analyse the possible physiopathological mechanisms leading to resolution. Other similar cases reported in the literature were collected and analysed.
Snow Redistribution by Wind and Interactions with Vegetation at Upper Treeline in the Medicine Bow Mountains, Wyoming, U.S.A.

High-elevation areas in the Rocky Mountain treeline ecotone exhibit heterogeneous snow distribution resulting from interactions among topography, vegetation, and wind. Our study area-Libby Flats-is a gently arched ridge at 3200 m a.s.l. in the Medicine Bow Mountains, Wyoming. The Libby Flats snow season (October-May) features sub-freezing temperatures, abundant snow, and strong westerly winds (averaging 10 m s-1). While relief is gentle on Libby Flats, it, together with islands of krummholz and flagged trees, produces snow depths ranging from 0 to 7 m. These variable snow depths have important feedbacks on the occurrence of trees and vegetation, as well as direct controls on ecosystem properties. To better understand the factors controlling these interactions, snow distribution patterns were measured and modeled over a 6.25 km2 area on Libby Flats during the 1997-98 snow season. Snow-depth observations during the snow season were compared with results from the SnowTran-3D model. These tests demonstrated that the model closely reproduces the observed snow distribution patterns and adequately represents snow depths at a 5 m spatial resolution on Libby Flats. Simulation experiments demonstrate the relative importance of wind speeds, precipitation, and vegetation in the natural system.
A Community-Based Gasoline Conservation Project

Two previous studies obtained 20% driving reductions with college students. However, college students are easier to work with than a representative community population because of their common location and lower exposure to environmental contingencies (e.g., job, family). This study found that a community-based project was feasible in terms of recruiting participants, their cooperativeness in reporting mileage, and the 15% average reduction in miles driven. Drivers in an experimental group were paid for individual and team driving reductions relative to baseline and to matched control group drivers who were simply asked to reduce and who were paid an amount approximating the experimental group. This study raised possibilities as well as problems for future community-based studies. For example, given the cooperativeness of some persons and increasing gasoline prices, will small monetary incentives become practical? Problems remain in detecting artifactual effects due to changes in life events, holidays, we...
Time acts as a conditioned stimulus to control behavioral sensitization to amphetamine in rats.

Abstract Repeated exposure to the psychostimulant drug, amphetamine, results in a persistent increase in the ability of the drug to elicit behavioral activation. 14. , 19. The development of sensitized responses to amphetamine involves long-lasting neuroadaptations within defined circuitry. 3. , 6. , 12. , 15. , 23. The behavioral expression of sensitization, however, can come under the control of specific environmental cues. Thus, the sensitized locomotor response to a challenge injection of amphetamine is greater if the drug is given in the environment previously associated with intermittent injections than if given in a different environmental context. 2. , 13. , 16. , 18. , 20. , 21. Contrary to the wealth of information on the significance of contextual cues, little is known about the importance of time cues in the expression of sensitized responding to amphetamine. In the present study we, therefore, asked whether time of injection might influence the expression of amphetamine sensitization. We found that time can readily act as a conditioned stimulus to control the expression of behavioral sensitization to amphetamine in rats. This finding is important for understanding the mechanisms underlying sensitization to psychostimulant drugs and its impact on behavior.
Perceptual masking of the chlordiazepoxide discriminative cue by both caffeine and buspirone.

Abstract Twelve male Sprague-Dawley rats were traitrained to discriminate between the interoceptive stimulus attributes of 5 mg/kg chlordiazepoxide (CDP) and saline in a two-lever operant task under a fixed-ratio 10 (FR-10) schedule of food reinforcement. Caffeine, buspirone, and Ro 15-1788 failed to engender complete generalization when tested in combination with saline. In drug interaction test sessions caffeine (56 mg/kg) blocked the discriminative stimulus properties of the training dose of CDP and shifted the CDP discriminative dose-response function to the right. This rightward shift in CDP discriminative function was paralleled by a concomitant downward shift in the rate-of-responding dose-response function. Drug interaction test sessions conducted with 3.2 mg/kg of buspirone in combination with various doses of CDP engendered a downward shift in both the discriminative and rate-of-responding dose-response functions. Because 3.2 mg/kg buspirone in combination with the training dose of CDP resulted in complete response rate suppression, additional combination tests were conducted with 3 mg/kg CDP, a dose which reliably engendered >90% CDP-appropriate responding, and various doses of buspirone. Similar to the CDP-caffeine interactions, buspirone blocked the cueing properties of 3 mg/kg CDP with a parallel reduction in response rates. Interaction test sessions conducted with Ro 15-1788 and CDP resulted in rightward shifts in both the discriminative and rate functions of CDP. We suggest that the interactions between CDP and both caffeine and buspirone resulted from the perceptual masking of the interoceptive (subjective) effects of CDP, whereas the interaction between Ro 15-1788 and CDP reflect pharmacological antagonism.
Streamline proteomic approach for characterizing protein-protein interaction network in a RAD52 protein complex.

Large-scale identification of protein−protein interactions (PPIs) in functional complexes represents an efficient route to elucidate the regulatory rules of cellular functions. Whereas many methods...
The cardiac beta-adrenergic receptor blocking actions of propranolol and its stereoisomers.

Abstract The ability of propranolol and its dextrorotatory and levorotatory isomers to produce beta -adrenergic receptor blockade was studied in anesthetized dogs and in isolated rabbit atria. 1 -Propranolol, in mean concentrations of 3.8 × 10 −7 M, and 4.9 × 10 −7 M, produced a 50% attenuation of the positive inotropic and chronotropic effects, respectively, of isoproterenol on isolated rabbit atria. The corresponding mean concentrations of dl -Propranolol required were 7.4 × 10 −7 M and 8.4 × 10 −7 M. d -Propranolol failed to attenuate the responses to isoproterenol in concentrations 60–80 times higher than the required concentration of 1 -propranolol. In the anesthetized dog, dl -propranolol, 0.5 mg/kg, produced complete inhibition of the responses to isoproterenol and sympathetic stimulation. In contrast, no specific inhibition was observed following d -propranolol, 5 mg/kg. These findings provide additional support for the thesis that the stereochemical configuration of the sidechain alcoholic hydroxyl group is important in determining whether or not a drug of this class possesses affinity for the beta -adrenergic receptor; thus, allowing it to act as a beta -receptor blocking agent.
Predicting The Outcome Of A Contract Ratification Vote

This study examined the role of employee assessments of psychological and material factors in predicting the outcome of a contract ratification vote. The results show that both the material aspects...
A model for glioma growth

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most invasive form of primary brain tumor. We propose a mathematical model that describes such tumor growth and allows us to describe two different mechanisms of cell invasion: diffusion (random motion) and chemotaxis (directed motion along the gradient of the chemoattractant concentration). The results are in a quantitative agreement with recent in vitro experiments. It was observed in experiments that the outer invasive zone grows faster than the inner proliferative region. We argue that this feature indicates transient behavior, and that the growth velocities tend to the same constant value for larger times. A longer-time experiment is needed to verify this hypothesis and to choose between the two basic mechanisms for tumor growth. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 11: 53–57, 2005This paper was submitted as an invited paper resulting from “Understanding Complex Systems” conference held at University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign, May 2005
Stability and performance of intersecting aircraft flows under sequential conflict resolution

This paper considers the problem of intersecting aircraft flows under sequential conflict avoidance rules. Using an Eulerian standpoint (aircraft flow through a fixed control volume), new air traffic control models and scenarios are defined that enable the study of long-term airspace stability problems. As a generalization to the basic aircraft flow model discussed previously, this paper considers conflict scenarios involving arbitrary encounter angles, different times to conflict, and different aircraft flow speeds. It is shown that airspace stability, defined both in terms of safety and performance, is preserved under sequential conflict resolution algorithms. Performance bounds are derived for the aircraft flow problem. For more than two intersecting aircraft flows, simulations indicate that flow stability may not be guaranteed under simple sequential conflict avoidance rules.
Development of a Versatile Hybrid Testing System for Seismic Experimentation

The hybrid testing method for earthquake engineering was developed to evaluate the seismic performance of civil structural systems. During hybrid testing, part of the structure, called physical substructure, is physically tested using hydraulic loading equipment while the rest of the structure, named numerical substructure, is numerically simulated with a computer model. Thus, hybrid testing allows a complex physical substructure being tested experimentally, while the relatively simple part of the structure is numerically simulated to economically obtain the full structural response. Recently, a versatile hybrid testing system was built at Western Michigan University consisting of a shake table, an actuator/reaction system, and an advanced hybrid testing controller. Such a testing system is capable of conducting various seismic experiments such as displacement-based pseudodynamic substructure testing as well as force-based real time dynamic hybrid testing. Because of its versatility and easy operation at the benchmark scale, the developed testing system is particularly suitable for the development of advanced hybrid testing techniques and, earthquake engineering education/outreach activities. The development of the testing system is described in this article focusing on the hardware and software integrations. A three story shake table hybrid test is presented as an example to demonstrate the system’s capability and feasibility.
SPLENIC AND TOTAL-BODY IRRADIATION TREATMENT OF MY ASTHENIA GRAVIS

X-irradiation is introduced as a new therapeutic technique in the treatment of otherwise intractable myasthenia gravis (MG) and polymyositis (PM), on the basis that these dysimmune diseases are "lymphocyte dyscrasias" and that lymphocytes are the circulating cells most sensitive to x-irradiation. Splenic irradiation, 1000 rads per two-week course, repeated up to three courses, in five MG patients produced objective improvement in three and subjective improvement in another. The improvement was transient and accompanied by a temporary lymphocytopoenia. Total Body Irradiation (TBI), 150 rads over five weeks, in one polymyositis patient was followed by remarkable improvement, sustained and still increasing now after one year, associated with a sustained lymphocytopoenia. One MG patient has had definite improvement, maintained to the present, seven months after TBI, associated with persistent lymphocytopoenia. We suggest TBI may also be a treatment applicable to other types of dysimmune (autoimmune) diseases.
Optical encryption as a function of polarization in optical fiber communications

An optical encryption technique based on polarization property of light is proposed. Many techniques using polarization beam splitters to encrypt the signal have been proposed earlier. They are based on splitting and interference of two light signals, namely message and noise. Only by placing suitable mirrors and a second beam splitter in a suitable position, the two signals are reconstructed at the output. In this paper we report the fiber optic version of a polarization based encryption technique that also has the potential to double the data carrying capacity of the fiber. Using polarization dependent couplers in the fiber optic cables, we are able to achieve encryption of the light signal. Theoretical analysis and simulated results are also presented.
Beating Heart Surgery in a Patient with Dextrocardia and Complete Situs Inversus

We present a 65-year-old female patient with dextrocardia and situs inversus who underwent successful coronary artery bypass without cardiopulmonary bypass. Vessels revascularized included right internal mammary artery to the left anterior descending artery and a saphenous vein graft to the first obtuse marginal branch. The procedure was performed on a beating heart through a median sternotomy with the use of a compression epicardial stabilizer. The patient was discharged to her home after an uneventful recovery. Only 12 similar cases of myocardial revascularization in patients with dextrocardia have been reported so far, and this is one of the first procedures, in patients with dextrocardia, performed off pump. (J Card Surg 2003;18:170-172)
A further estimate of maximum transport of the Somali current

Abstract An estimate is given of geostrophic volume transport of the Somali current during the southwest monsoon in the region 7°–9°N where full strength is reached just before turning offshore to the east. Transport values of 48 × 10 6 m 3 /sec for 0–200 m and 74 × 10 6 m 3 /sec for 0–1000 m from a 1960 Commandant Robert Giraud section compare favorably with that of a Discovery 1964 section previously reported.
Climate change: lessons from a distant monsoon.

The burden of global warming falls most heavily on the developing world. A connection forged between the Indian Ocean climate, Asian monsoons and drought in Indonesia makes for an especially bleak outlook for that nation.
E-Procurement in Taiwan: Issues and Viewpoints

Much advancement has taken place in E-commerce, especially in the area of e-procurement. This article describes some essential characteristics of e-procurement and its role in e-commerce and industry as a whole. We also discuss some of the newer developments in e-procurement and surmise the necessary modification of these developments for companies in Taiwan.
Near-optimal and computationally efficient detectors for weak and sparse graph-structured patterns

In this paper, we review our recent work on detecting weak patterns that are sparse and localized on a graph. This problem is relevant to many applications including detecting anomalies in sensor and computer networks, brain activity, co-expressions in gene networks, disease outbreaks etc. We characterize such a class of weak and sparse graph-structured patterns by small subsets of weakly activated nodes with a low cut in an underlying known graph. On one hand, the combinatorial nature of this class renders traditional detectors such as GLRT (aka scan statistic) computationally intractable for general graphs. On the other hand, attempts to develop feasible detectors such as fast subset scanning or averaging/thresholding sacrifice statistical efficiency. We describe and compare three detectors for weak graph-structured patterns that are developed using tools from graph theory, optimization and machine learning. These detectors are computationally efficient, applicable to graphs and patterns with general structures and come with precise theoretical guarantees, often achieving near-optimal statistical performance.
Relative Defect Density Measurements of Laser Shock Peened 316L Stainless Steel Using Positron Annihilation Spectroscopy

The surface of an annealed 316L stainless steel coupon was laser shock peened and Vickers hardness measurements were subsequently taken of its surface. This Vickers hardness data was compared with measurements taken using the technique of positron annihilation Doppler broadening spectroscopy. When compared, a correlation was found between the Vickers hardness data measurements and those made using Doppler broadening spectroscopy. Although materials with a high defect density can cause the S-parameter measurements to saturate, variations in the S-parameter measurements suggest that through further research the Doppler broadening technique could be used as a viable alternative to measuring a material’s hardness. In turn, this technique, could be useful in industrial settings where surface hardness and surface defects are used to predict lifetime of components.
The isolation of new norcycloartene triterpenoids from the tropical marine alga (chlorophyta)

Abstract Three new Δ 3 -norcycloartene triterpenoids, with differing side chain functionalities, have been isolated from the tropical green alga Tydemania expeditionitis collected in Guam. The structures of these new compounds were secured by x-ray crystallography and by chemical interconversion.
Endor frequencies of randomly oriented triplets by electron spin echo spectroscopy

Abstract ENDOR frequencies of randomly oriented triplets have been measured from the fast Fourier transform of electron spin echo envelope modulation. Important experimental conditions are low temperatures, high microwave power and long phase memory time in a proper form of solvent. The technique is exemplified by using diphenylmethylenes in rigid glasses, polycrystalline forms and single crystals of benzophenones.
The inherence heuristic across development: systematic differences between children's and adults' explanations for everyday facts

Abstract The inherence heuristic is a basic cognitive process that supplies quick-and-easy answers to what are, in reality, incredibly complex questions about why the broad patterns of the world are as they are ( Cimpian and Salomon, 2014-a , Cimpian and Salomon, 2014-b ). This explanatory heuristic satisfies the human need to understand, but it is also a source of bias because the heuristic relies too often on the (easily accessible) inherent features of the entities in the patterns being explained. Here, we investigated the developmental trajectory of this heuristic. Given that the cognitive resources that help override the typical output of the inherence heuristic are scarce in childhood, we hypothesized that the heuristic’s output would be more broadly endorsed by children than by adults. Five experiments involving young children and adults (N = 480) provided consistent support for this hypothesis. The first three experiments (Part I) investigated participants’ explanations for broad patterns (e.g., fire trucks are red) and suggested that, consistent with our predictions, children were particularly likely to endorse inherence-based explanations. The last two experiments (Part II) investigated two intuitions that accompany the output of the inherence heuristic: namely, that the patterns being explained cannot be changed and are temporally stable. As predicted, participants’ judgments on these dimensions showed the same developmental differences as the explanations investigated in Part I, with children being particularly likely to see patterns as inalterable and temporally stable. The developmental differences found across these five experiments suggest that children start out with a broad reliance on the explanatory output of the inherence heuristic, a reliance that narrows in scope to some extent as children develop.
Novel silica membranes for high temperature gas separations

Abstract This article describes fabrication of novel silica membranes derived via controlled oxidative thermolysis of polydimethylsiloxane and their gas separation performance. The optimized protocol for fabrication of the silica membranes is described and pure gas separation performance in the temperature range 35–80 °C is presented. It is observed that the membranes exhibit activated transport for small gas penetrants such as He, H 2 and CO 2 . The membranes can withstand temperatures up to 350 °C in air and may ultimately find use in H 2 /CO 2 separations to improve efficiency in the water-gas shift reactor process.