cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Handling and Storage

Fluorinated ionomer products in the precursor form generally do not require special precautions in handling and storage. Products in the ionic form are subject to mechanical damage, particularly when folded or creased. In addition, products in the free sulfonic acid form also tend to pick up contaminants from the environment. A razor blade, knife or scissors may be used for cutting. Because membranes are usually installed wet, a decision must be made whether to cut wet or dry. Cutting dry is more convenient but requires careful estimation of the dimensional changes on wetting, particularly with respect to positioning bolt holes. Membranes change dimension based on moisture and cation content. Installation of a dry membrane in an electrolyzer will, therefore, result in wrinkling after exposure to the electrolyte. It is the purpose of the pretreatment to obtain an operating membrane that is flat without wrinkles or excessive tension.
Fluorescence Interference Contrast Microscopy (FLIC) - A New Tool to Study the Collective Motor Dynamics

Further development of an accurate model of actomyosin network function requires detailed knowledge of the interaction between actin and myosin. The majority of data demonstrating the function of myosins has been obtained either in a single molecule fashion (where the isolated motors have been studied) or in a gliding filament assay (where multiple motors work collectively). Here, I present a technique that joins collective motor mechanics with single molecule detection of binding events, using Fluorescence Interference Contrast Microscopy (FLIC).In the FLIC assay, the distance between a fluorescently labeled actin filament and a reflective surface of a slide can be determined. The locations of myosin molecules that tether the actin filament to the surface are clearly visible. An attachment lifetime of each actin-motor interaction can be easily extracted from these data. The length of actin between two myosins (buckled or under tension) provides information about the relative speed of the two myosins. Moreover, segments of actin under tension and compression transduce different amounts of force to the myosins at each end.Our data show that the attachment lifetimes of Myosin 6 and Non-Muscle Myosin IIB are much longer in gliding filament assay than the attachment lifetimes previously obtained in single molecule bead assay. We argue that this difference, at least partially, can be attributed to mechanical coupling through the actin filament.
Stator winding turn-fault detection for closed-loop induction motor drives

Sensorless diagnostics for line-connected machines is based on extracting fault signatures from the spectrum of the line currents. However, for closed-loop drives, the power supply is a regulated current source and hence, the motor voltages must also be monitored for fault information. In this paper, a previously proposed neural network scheme for turn fault detection in line-connected induction machines is extended to inverter-fed machines, with special emphasis on closed-loop drives. Experimental results are provided to illustrate that the method is impervious to machine and instrumentation nonidealities, and that it requires lesser data memory and computation requirements than existing schemes, which are based on data look-up tables.
Sensitivity studies on fracture network variables for modelling carbon dioxide storage and enhanced recovery in the Chattanooga Shale Formation

Horizontal drilling and multi-stage stimulation technologies make enhance methane production and carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration feasible for shale reservoirs. In March 2014, approximately 462 tonnes of CO2 was injected into horizontal well in Morgan County, Tennessee over a 13-day period in order to examine the injectivity and the adsorption of CO2. The horizontal well was hydraulically fractured and stimulated in four stages. Due to the lack of microseismic data available for the well, the volume of the stimulated reservoir was unknown. Sensitivity analysis by using numerical modelling can help to determine the size of the stimulated reservoir volume (SRV). In this paper, grid refinement in fracture network, fracture spacing and fracture porosity, fracture network permeability, and fracture network volume were changed to identify the most important parameters for matching the gas and the bottom-hole pressure of the wellbore. [Received: January 7, 2015; Accepted: February 13, 2015]
Increased risk of liver toxicity secondary to nivolumab therapy in the treatment of cancer.

e14559Background: Nivolumab, a humanized immunotherapy targeting PD-1, is approved for the treatment of a number of solid and liquid cancers and is associated with liver toxicity. This meta-analysis was conducted to determine the overall risk of hepatotoxicity with nivolumab therapy in cancer patients. Methods: An analysis from all phase I, II, and II clinical trials up to December 2016 examining the role of nivolumab in a variety of cancers was conducted. Eligible trials included those in which patients received nivolumab. Data on all-grade and high-grade (grade 3 and 4) elevations in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were extracted from the safety profiles of each clinical trial. Incidence and relative risk (RR) were calculated using random - or fixed - effect models with 95% confidence intervals. Results: The data from 27 eligible trials were included for analysis. A total of 5,287 patients were evaluated (Nivolumab: n = 3515, Control: n = 1772). The incidences of all-...
Surgeon attitudes and practice patterns in managing small bowel obstruction: a qualitative analysis.

Abstract Background Historical training instructs surgeons to, “never let the sun set on a small bowel obstruction (SBO)” due to concern for bowel ischemia. However, the routine use of computed tomography scans for ruling out ischemia provides the opportunity for trial of nonoperative management, allowing time for resolution of adhesive SBO. In light of advances in practice, little is known about how surgeons manage these patients, in particular, whether there is consistency in the stated duration for safe nonoperative management. Methods Using a case vignette (a patient with computed tomography scan diagnosed complete SBO without bowel ischemia), we interviewed a purposive sample of general surgeons practicing in Washington State to understand stated approaches to clinical management. Interview questions addressed typical practice, preferred timing of surgery, and approach. We conducted a content analysis to understand current practice and attitudes. Results We interviewed 15 surgeons practicing across Washington State. Surgical practice patterns for patients with SBO varied widely. The period of time that surgeons were willing to manage patients nonoperatively ranged from 1-7 d. Interviews revealed insight into surgical decision-making, the importance of patient preferences, variation in practice, and evidence gaps. All surgeons acknowledged a lack of evidence to support appropriate management of patients with SBO. Conclusions Interviews with practicing surgeons highlight a changing paradigm away from routine early surgery for patients with adhesive SBO. However, there is lack of consensus in the appropriate duration of nonoperative management and practices vary considerably. These revealed attitudes inform the feasibility and design of future randomized studies of patients with adhesive SBO.
Pathologic assessment of gastrointestinal tract and pancreatic carcinoma after neoadjuvant therapy

Neoadjuvant therapy is increasingly used to treat patients with a wide variety of malignancies. Histologic evaluation of treated specimens provides important prognostic information and may guide subsequent chemotherapy. Neoadjuvant therapy is commonly employed in the treatment of locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma, hepatic colorectal metastases, esophageal/esophagogastric junction carcinoma, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Numerous tumor regression schemes have been used in these tumors and standardized approaches to evaluate these specimens are needed. In this review, the various tumor regression scoring systems that have been used in these organs are described and their associations with clinical outcomes are discussed. Recommendations regarding how to handle and report the histologic findings in these resections specimens are provided.
Biosynthesis and Endocytosis of Yolk Proteins in the Mosquito

The maturation of insect eggs requires the fat body production of large amounts of a protein, vitellogenin (Vg), that is secreted into the hemolymph, selectively accumulated by the oocytes and stored in yolk bodies as crystalline vitellin (Vn). The coordination of activity in fat body and oocytes during vitellogenesis is achieved through a complex regulatory mechanism. The mosquito, Aedes aegypti, has proven to be a valuable organism in the study of vitellogenesis.
Older marijuana users' marijuana risk perceptions: associations with marijuana use patterns and marijuana and other substance use disorders

ABSTRACTBackground:Compared to their non-using age peers, older marijuana users are known to have lower marijuana risk perceptions. We examined associations of older marijuana users' risk perceptions with their marijuana use patterns and substance use disorders. Methods Data are from 2013 to 2015 National Survey of Drug Use and Health (N = 24,057 respondents aged 50+ years). Bivariate logistic regression was used to compare risk perceptions among never users, former users, and past-year users aged 50+ years. Multivariable logistic regression was used to test associations between risk perception and marijuana use status and between risk perception and marijuana use patterns. Results Among the total sample, former (AOR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.27-0.32) and past-year (AOR = 0.05, 95% CI = 0.04-0.06) marijuana users had significantly lower odds of moderate/great risk perception (as opposed to no/slight risk perception) than never users. Among past-year users, odds of moderate/great risk perception were lower among those who used marijuana more frequently (AOR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.07-0.28 for 300+ days of use compared to 1-11 days of use) and who reported any medical marijuana use (AOR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.14-0.51). However, those who had marijuana use disorder were 3.5 times more likely to report moderate/great risk perception (AOR = 3.50, 95% CI = 1.62-7.58). Those who had a college education, had higher incomes, and resided in states with medical marijuana laws also had lower risk perceptions. Conclusions Public health education on scientific evidence about marijuana's benefits and harms and age-appropriate treatment for older adults with substance use problems are needed. Research on risk perception formation using longitudinal data among older adults is also needed.
A Nonparametric Ensemble Postprocessing Approach for Short-Range Visibility Predictions in Data-Sparse Areas

AbstractThis work develops and tests the viability of obtaining skillful short-range (<20 h) visibility predictions using statistical postprocessing of a 4-km, 10-member Weather Research and Foreca...
Maximizing the impact of the in-person one-shot in community colleges: Selecting courses to target for library instruction through curriculum analysis

A t many colleges, library instruction is not a curricular requirement. The predominant approach to library instruction in community colleges continues to be the provision of face-to-face, course-integrated sessions taught by librarians at the request of teaching faculty. Participating teaching faculty usually schedule a single library instruction session for their classes—the “one-shot”—which may constitute a student’s only library instruction session during their undergraduate experience.
Analyzing environmental sustainability methods for use earlier in the product lifecycle.

Abstract Environmental sustainability information in the manufacturing industry is not easily shared between stages in the product lifecycle. In particular, reliable manufacturing-related information for assessing the sustainability of a product is often unavailable at the design stage. Instead, designers rely on aggregated, often outdated information or make decisions by analogy (e.g., a similar manufacturing process for a similar product yielded X and Y results). However, smart manufacturing and the Internet of Things have potential to bridge the gap between design and manufacturing through data and knowledge sharing. This paper analyzes environmental sustainability assessment methods to enable more accurate decisions earlier in design. The techniques and methods are categorized based on the stage they apply to in the product lifecycle, as described by the Systems Integration of Manufacturing Applications (SIMA) reference architecture. Furthermore, opportunities for aligning standard data representation to promote sustainability assessment during design are identified.
Non-linear Lagrangians and relativistic SU(6)

A method for constructing a phenomenological nonlinear Lagrangian of the hadrons within the relativistic framework is presented. A particular SL(6, C)-invariant series of meson-meson and meson-baryon interactions are introduced and it is shown that in a first-order calculation a relation between the various coupling is possible if PCAC is maintained. Using the coupling constant forϱππ as input the following results are noted:Γ(X0→ηππ)= 2 MeV,Γ (ω→3π)=8.9 MeV,\(g\tfrac{2}{N}_{N\rho \backslash 4\pi } = 0.54\).
Instrumentation for Transesophageal Echocardiography

Though transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) first started with single crystal devices and motor driven sector scanners, ultrasound instrumentation using phased array technology has now been universally adopted for the use of TEE in patients with congenital heart disease, including applications in neonates and infants. This chapter reviews the history, technology, methods, and instrumentation related to TEE utilized during support of surgical and interventional catheterization procedures, particularly in regard to the treatment and diagnosis of congenital heart disease. The instruments to be reviewed include miniaturized fully functional phased array probes and their utlity for cardiac imaging from transesophageal, epicardial, and intracardiac imaging locations. An important theme of this chapter is the role of miniaturization: the smaller and more versatile the probes, the better adapted they will be for use in children, especially neonates born with serious forms of congenital heart disease.
Biochar does not attenuate triclosan's impact on soil bacterial communities.

Abstract Triclosan, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial, has been widely used in pharmaceutical and personal care products. It undergoes limited degradation during wastewater treatment and is present in biosolids, most of which are land applied in the United States. This study assessed the impact of triclosan (0–100 mg kg−1) with and without biochar on soil bacterial communities. Very little 14C-triclosan was mineralized to 14CO2 (
Pole Placement Control for Doubly-Fed Induction Generators Using Compact Representations in Complex Variables

The paper presents three algorithms to synthesize a dynamic controller for a doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG). In each case, the pole placement approach is used to compute the parameters of a feedback controller that regulates the active and reactive powers produced using the rotor voltages. Due to the special structure of the DFIG's model, the analysis and design of the feedback control loop are simplified by transforming its representation into an equivalent system with complex coefficients and half the number of states. This approach yields analytic solutions of the problem with remarkable simplicity. The complex framework facilitates the direct placement of the DFIG system poles in the left half-plane, which ensures stability and performance of the closed-loop system. Additionally, this framework can be used to evaluate the robustness properties of the closed-loop systems. The ability of the synthesized controllers to provide a desirable dynamic and steady-state response is investigated through experiments on a laboratory testbed.
Aquatic Exercise for Pain Management in Older Adults with Osteoarthritis

This literature review focused on the effects of aquatic exercise programs in reducing pain in older adults with osteoarthritis (OA). Studies were included that involved adults 50 years of age and older with OA. Effects of aquatic exercise programs involving strength, endurance, balance, stretching and aqua jogging on pain in these individuals were examined. Significant outcomes included reduced pain as well as improved motor functioning, reduced body weight, improved self-efficacy and enhanced quality of life. Based on results, programming recommendations are provided to assist therapists in recognizing how facilities, water temperature, session length, frequency of programs, accessory equipment, education and social support can all contribute to positive outcomes.
Chemical Compositions of the Bark Essential Oils of Croton Monteverdensis and Croton Niveus from Monteverde, Costa Rica:

The essential oils of the barks of Croton monteverdensis Huft and C. niveus Jacq. (Euphorbiaceae) from Monteverde, Costa Rica, were isolated by hydrodistillation in yields of 0.03% and 0.10%, respe...
The Far Right Today

In The Far Right Today, author Cas Mudde makes a decent argument for his central thesis, which is that there is a discernable trend in which erstwhile mainstream right-wing political parties have e...
Chapter III – The Estimators

Publisher Summary This chapter presents five kinds of estimators: (1) least square estimators, (2) the generalized ridge regression estimator, (3) the mixed estimators, (4) the minimax estimator, and (5) the linear Bayes estimator. To obtain each kind of estimator, a different optimization problem is solved. Thus, each estimator is optimum with respect to a certain criterion of goodness. The chapter describes the concept of estimability, which is seen to be the criterion for uniqueness of least square estimators for the non-full rank model. It presents a proof of the Gauss–Markov Theorem. This theorem states that the least square estimator is the unbiased linear estimator with the smallest variance. The chapter presents a derivation of generalized ridge regression estimator.
Is It Alzheimer’s?: 101 Answers to Your Most Pressing Questions about Memory Loss and Dementia: by Peter V. Rabins, Baltimore, MD, Johns Hopkins University Press, 2020, 147 pp., $29.00/$12.95/$12.95, (hardcover/paperback/ebook), ISBN 9781421436395

Peter V. Rabins, MD, MPH has written a book on Alzheimer disease, memory loss and dementia directed toward individuals with questions, diagnosed patients, families and caregivers. Rabins is profess...
The Programmable Web: Agile, Social, and Grassroots Computing

Web services, the Semantic Web, and Web 2.0 are three somewhat separate movements trying to make the Web a programmable substrate. While each has achieved some level of success on their own right, it is becoming apparent that the grassroot approach of the Web 2.0 is gaining greater success than the other two. In this paper we analyze each movement, briefly describing its main traits, and outlining its primary assumptions. We then frame the common problem of achieving a programmable Web within the context of distributed computing and software engineering and then attempt to show why Web 2.0 is closest to give a pragmatic solution to the problem and will therefore likely continue to have the most success while the other two only have cursory contributions.
E-cigarette and dual product use as an emerging health threat to the US military.

Introduction Cigarette and e-cigarette use are threats to the health and readiness of the US military. The study objective was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with e-cigarette, cigarette, and dual use among active duty service members (SMs). Methods We used data from the 2015 Health Related Behaviors Survey-a crosssectional survey weighted to represent the US military (n=16699). Weighted prevalence and odds ratios assessed associations between risk factors and e-cigarette/cigarette use via weighted multinomial logistic models. Results The prevalence of cigarette use in the US military declined from 24% in 2011 to 13.8% in 2015. However, e-cigarette use (12.4%) and dual product use (4.7%) increased during this period. Additionally, prevalence of e-cigarette use was higher in the military compared to the general population (12.4% vs 3.5%), particularly among those aged 17-24 years (22.8% vs 5.2%); cigarette use was also higher in the military in this age group (19.3% vs 13.0%). After adjustment, SMs who were enlisted, lacked a Bachelor's degree, and/or had probable alcohol use disorder had significantly greater odds of cigarette, e-cigarette, and dual use. While SMs aged 17-24 years had the highest prevalence of all types of product use, only being aged ≥45 years was significantly associated with decreased odds of product use in adjusted models. Conclusions Military efforts to control cigarette use among SMs seem to have been successful, as demonstrated by the dramatic declines in its use and the lower prevalence seen in the military compared to the general population. However, the concurrent increases in e-cigarette use are concerning, particularly among the youngest members of the military. The US military must continue to monitor emerging trends in e-cigarette, cigarette, and dual use and rapidly take steps to address them as threats to health and readiness.
A strategic analysis of global warming: Theory and some numbers

We model the global warming process as a dynamic commons game in which the players are countries, their actions at each date produce emissions of greenhouse gases, and the state variable is the current stock of greenhouse gases. The theoretical analysis is complemented by a calibration exercise. The first set of results establishes theoretically, and then with illustrative numbers, the over-emissions due to a “tragedy of the commons.” The power of simple sanctions to lower emissions and increase welfare is then examined as is the effect of cost asymmetry. Finally, a complete theoretical charactrization is provided for the best equilibrium, and it is shown that it has a very simple structure; it involves a constant emission rate through time.
Abstract LB-300: Reintroduction of tumor-suppressor miR-34a shows therapeutic efficacy in triple-negative breast cancer

Proceedings: AACR 106th Annual Meeting 2015; April 18-22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for a disproportionate share of the total breast cancer morbidity because of its aggressive behavior and lack of effective targeted therapies to treat the disease. MicroRNAs, global regulators of survival and proliferation pathways important in tumor development and maintenance, are highly dysregulated in cancer. We identified miR-34a to be aberrantly lost in TNBC lines when compared to both a luminal cancer subtype as well as normal breast cells. Re-introduction of miR-34a in TNBC lines results in inhibition of cell proliferation and invasion, reactivation of senescence, and enhanced sensitivity to apoptosis inducing agents. Furthermore, intratumoral delivery of miR-34a into subcutaneous tumors in nude mice, as well as systemic delivery of poly(amine-co-ester) PACE-loaded miR-34a in an orthotopic setting, delayed tumor growth. In conclusion, re-introduction of miR-34a in TNBC promotes potent anti-tumorigenic phenotypes in vitro and in vivo, and could be a promising targeted therapeutic agent to treat the disease. Citation Format: Brian D. Adams, Vikram Wali, Chris Cheng, Sachi Inukai, David Rimm, Lajos Pusztai, Mark Saltzman, Frank Slack. Reintroduction of tumor-suppressor miR-34a shows therapeutic efficacy in triple-negative breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr LB-300. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-LB-300
Electrochemical Study of the Sodium-Graphite Reaction

(1969). Electrochemical Study of the Sodium-Graphite Reaction. Nuclear Science and Engineering: Vol. 38, No. 2, pp. 187-189.
Healthcare Game Design: Behavioral Modeling of Serious Gaming Design for Children with Chronic Diseases

This article introduces the design principles of serious games for chronic patients based on behavioral models. First, key features of the targeted chronic condition (Diabetes) are explained. Then, the role of psychological behavioral models in the management of chronic conditions is covered. After a short review of the existing health focused games, two recent health games that are developed based on behavioral models are overviewed in more detail. Furthermore, design principles and usability issues regarding the creation of these health games are discussed. Finally, the authors conclude that designing healthcare games based on behavioral models can increase the usability of the game in order to improve the effectiveness of the game's desired healthcare outcomes.
Protein synthesis during encystment of Azotobacter vinelandii.

Proteins synthesized during the encystment of Azotobacter vinelandii were radiolabeled with (/sup 35/S) methionine and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Pulse labeling was used to demonstrate that early encystment-specific proteins were beginning to be synthesized by 2 h and reach peak levels about 12 h after initiation of encystment. One such protein was identified as a ..beta..-ketoacyl acyl-carrier protein synthase. The concentration of early proteins began to decrease at 16 h, when intermediate proteins specific to the differentiation process began to be synthesized. The cessation of synthesis of intermediate proteins began at 20 h postinitiation, and the labeling pattern of proteins then remained constant throughout the remaining 4 days of encystment.
Paths to Development in Asia: South Korea, Vietnam, China, and Indonesia

Part I. Divergent National Paths of State Development: 1. State formation dynamics and developmental outcomes 2. South Korea: confrontation and the formation of a cohesive state 3. Indonesia: from accommodation to confrontation 4. Rival state formations in China: the republican and Maoist states 5. Vietnam: accommodation and arrested revolution Part II. Variants of Accommodation: Vietnam and Indonesia Compared: 6. Organizing accommodation in Vietnam: coalition government, united front, and the Leninist party 7. Organizing accommodation in Indonesia: parliament and status-based parties 8. Talking accommodation in Vietnam: nation, the people, and class struggle 9. Talking accommodation in Indonesia: nation, the people, God, and Karl Marx 10. Rethinking developmental states Bibliography.
Fruit Quality and Phytochemical Attributes of Some Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) Cultivars as Affected by Genotypes and Seasons

This study was conducted over two growing seasons (2010 and 2011) to evaluate effects on fruit quality and phytochemical properties of new Turkish cultivars, hybrid between Irano-Caucasian- and European eco-geographic groups, and some important apricot cultivars in the eastern Mediterranean region of Turkey. Fruit quality characteristics, sensory traits, and phytochemical parameters were investigated. The data showed that considerable variation existed in fruit quality and phytochemical properties of Turkish, and foreign apricot cultivars based on genotypes and growing seasons. The new hybrid cultivar â€˜A‡aAŸataybeyâ€™ contained the highest total soluble solid content (14.6%), rich total phenolic (93.9 mg GAE 100g-1 fw), and total antioxidant capacity levels (9.8 mmol Fe2+ kg-1 fw), and >50% of blush color on the fruit peels among the cultivars. The fructose and sucrose values showed positively significant correlations with total phenolics (r = 0.55 and r = 0.69, at p< 0.05, respectively). The authors had estimated that the data will be useful for breeding studies to improve fruit quality and nutritional contents of apricot cultivars.
Design, Manufacturing, and Testing of an Improved Watertight Door for Surface Ships

Designed in the 1950s to be watertight during flooding and airtight under normal operating conditions, the Navy standard watertight door for surface ships is inexpensive to manufacture but expensive to properly install and maintain. Furthermore, by today's requirements, it is too heavy. The need for a lightweight, affordable, low maintenance watertight door led to a collaborative project involving the Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division, Ship Systems Engineering Station, and Northrop Grumman Corporation Newport News to design, fabricate, and test an improved watertight door for surface ships. The design and manufacturing of this door is entirely new and based on advances in laser cutting and welding technology. Its novel design reduces the number of dogs (latches) and linkages of the Navy standard watertight door, decreasing the weight of the complete door assembly from 290 to 213 lbs. The door is fabricated from corrosion resistant stainless steel, and its opening and closing forces are extremely low, reducing the potential for mechanical and gasket wear. Pending successful completion of certification testing and with technical warrant holder approval, the new door will offer an attractive choice for insertion by Acquisition Program Managers and Fleet Maintenance Managers.
Diversity of astrocyte functions and phenotypes in neural circuits

Astrocytes tile the entire CNS. They are vital for neural circuit function, but have traditionally been viewed as simple, homogenous cells that serve the same essential supportive roles everywhere. Here, we summarize breakthroughs that instead indicate that astrocytes represent a population of complex and functionally diverse cells. Physiological diversity of astrocytes is apparent between different brain circuits and microcircuits, and individual astrocytes display diverse signaling in subcellular compartments. With respect to injury and disease, astrocytes undergo diverse phenotypic changes that may be protective or causative with regard to pathology in a context-dependent manner. These new insights herald the concept that astrocytes represent a diverse population of genetically tractable cells that mediate neural circuit-specific roles in health and disease.
O social e o tecnológico: questões da ultramodernidade

Entrevista sobre Pos-modernidade. A entrevista foi conduzida por Adriana Amaral com o professor e coordenador do Departamento de Sociologia do Boston College, Massachussets, Estados Unidos, Stephen Pfohl.
Little mirror, big science

It will be decades before a flagship class mission in the ultraviolet will be implemented to succeed the Hubble Space Telescope. However, advances in technology can enable smaller aperture systems to achieve and surpass HST sensitivity by reducing attacking the noise portion of the signal/noise calculation. Through the use of ultra-low noise photon counting detectors, low scatter optics, and optical design, instruments in the ultraviolet can be developed that can attack critical science questions that cannot be addressed by current instrumentation, even in an Explorer class mission.
SPECTROSCOPY OF 1,4,4-TRIFLUOROCYCLOBUTENE*

A new compound, 1,4,4-trifluorocyclobutene (144FCB), has been obtained as a byproduct in the reduction of perfluorocyclobutene with sodium borohydride. A comprehensive spectroscopic study of 144FCB has been undertaken including microwave, IR, Raman and NMR data. Ground state rotational constants, A = 3629.34, B = 2600.74, and C = 2098.93 MHz, were derived from the microwave data and used to distinguish 144FCB from other possible isomers and to propose a structure. NMR chemical shifts and coupling constants and the vibrational fundamentals are assigned and compared to other members of the cyclobutene family. Frequencies of vibrational fundamentals of 144FCB (cm-‘) are: (a’) 3126,2967, 1679, 1457, 1377, 1245, 1179, 1045, 914, 752,690,577,453,263,213; (a” ) 3000,1198,1061,938,821,577,381,190, - . A small amount of 3,3,4trifluorocyclobutene has also been found in the products of the reduction reaction, and its NMR spectra and its IR spectrum are reported.
Performance and task scheduling studies of a multiprocessor in histopathologic image analysis

The performance of a multiprocessor computer system in histopathology applications was studied. Specifically, timing studies have been done on an operational multiprocessor, the Heidelberg Polyp, running expert system-guided scene segmentation and image analysis software. A number of actual and potential system bottlenecks and methods of attack for removing them are discussed.
A bioecological analysis of risk and protective factors associated with early sexual intercourse of young adolescents

Microsystem risk and protective factors associated with early sexual intercourse among low-income adolescents were assessed using bioecological theory and a risk and resiliency framework. Waves 1 and 2 of Welfare, Children and Families: A Three-City Study were used (N=984, 10-14 years). Findings showed age, gender, race, two-parent households, separated households, households where the mother formed a union between waves, transitioning onto welfare between waves, and delinquency increased the odds that adolescents were sexually active. Protective factors for early sexual activity included maternal education and father involvement. Risk factors for early sexual debut were age, gender, race, two-parent households, separated households, and delinquency. A protective factor for early sexual debut was maternal education. Findings differed by gender, race, and race*gender. Policy implications include increasing social and human capital among low-income mothers to promote family stability and providing diversified sexual education programs due to gender differences.
A nuclear localization domain in the hnRNP A1 protein

The heterogeneous nuclear RNP (hnRNP) A1 protein is one of the major pre-mRNA/mRNA binding proteins in eukaryotic cells and one of the most abundant proteins in the nucleus. It is localized to the nucleoplasm and it also shuttles between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. The amino acid sequence of A1 contains two RNP motif RNA-binding domains (RBDs) at the amino terminus and a glycine-rich domain at the carboxyl terminus. This configuration, designated 2x RBD-Gly, is representative of perhaps the largest family of hnRNP proteins. Unlike most nuclear proteins characterized so far, A1 (and most 2x RBD-Gly proteins) does not contain a recognizable nuclear localization signal (NLS). We have found that a segment of ca. 40 amino acids near the carboxyl end of the protein (designated M9) is necessary and sufficient for nuclear localization; attaching this segment to the bacterial protein beta-galactosidase or to pyruvate kinase completely localized these otherwise cytoplasmic proteins to the nucleus. The RBDs and another RNA binding motif found in the glycine-rich domain, the RGG box, are not required for A1 nuclear localization. M9 is a novel type of nuclear localization domain as it does not contain sequences similar to classical basic-type NLS. Interestingly, sequences similar to M9 are found in other nuclear RNA-binding proteins including hnRNP A2.
Investigating the Accuracy of Three Estimation Methods for Regression Discontinuity Design.

Regression discontinuity design is an alternative to randomized experiments to make causal inference when random assignment is not possible. This article first presents the formal identification and estimation of regression discontinuity treatment effects in the framework of Rubin's causal model, followed by a thorough literature review of three major methods for estimating regression discontinuity effects. The authors conducted a Monte Carlo simulation to compare the accuracy of 3 estimation methods and evaluate the effects of sample sizes, cutoff score locations, and distribution assumptions on the accuracy of parameter estimates. Although all 3 methods can produce reasonably accurate parameter estimates under various manipulated data conditions, extreme cutoff scores tend to introduce large parameter estimate biases when the variance of the outcome variable differs across groups. Implications and directions for further research are discussed.
Literary Retailing and the (Re)making of Popular Reading

Le club du livre comme lieu de la pratique litteraire et de la lecture connait un renouveau parmi les lecteurs populaires aux Etats-Unis. Cette pratique s'est accompagnee par l'offre commerciale de manuels populaires de lecture, de guides de conversation pour groupes de lectures, sortes de lecons litteraires indiquant les bonnes pratiques et les bons choix litteraires. Les AA. explorent le contexte commercial, la position d'autorite du milieu litteraire, et la nature specifique des routines pedagogiques que promeut et autorise l'industrie du livre a travers ces publications. Ils montrent comment ces guides contribuent a redefinir les ordres du discours (Fairclough N.), comment l'industrie du livre devient ainsi une source d'autorite culturelle pour le public de lecteurs, mettant en lumiere les processus a travers lesquels certaines approches de la lecture sont integrees en tant que connaissances autorisees ou officielles disponibles pour le lectorat populaire.
The Bergman projection as a singular integral operator

We show that the Bergman projection operator, associated to one of three classes of domains (all smoothly bounded)-a finite type domain ℂ2; a decoupled, finite type domain in ℂn; or a convex, finite type domain in wfn-may be viewed as a generalized Calderon-Zygmund operator. As an application of this observation, we show that the Bergman projector on any of these domains preserves the Lebesgue classesL p , 1 <p < ∞.
Effectiveness of Noncontingent Attention to Decrease Attention-Maintained Disruptive Behaviors in the General Education Classroom

This study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of noncontingent attention (NCA) on disruptive talking-out behavior in a student diagnosed with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder in the general education classroom. Functional analysis indicated that the talking-out behavior was maintained by teacher attention. We used an ABAB design in which the teacher implemented NCA. Results indicated that the strategy decreased the participant's talking-out behavior. Furthermore, social validity data indicated that the participant was able to spend more time on-task. Results and implications for research and practice are discussed.
A Heckscher–Ohlin–Samuelson Model of Immigration and Capital Transfers

Given that the flow of immigrants from a developing country to an industrialized country increases with the gap in living standards, a welfare version of a Heckscher–Ohlin–Samuelson model is developed in which the equilibrium level of per capita utility in the developing country is some fixed fraction of that in the industrialized country. In searching for an optimal combination of immigration to the industrial country and capital transfer to the poorer country in order to raise that country's standard of living and reduce the number of emigrants, it is found that the international optimum is a corner solution with zero immigration and a positive capital transfer.
Fatty acid metabolism and cell proliferation. V. Evaluation of pathways for the generation of lipid peroxides

Primary cultures of smooth muscle cells were established from the medial layer of guinea pig aorta. Confluent cells at passage level 4-6 were challenged with arachidonic acid and treated with a number of antioxidants and inhibitors of specific lipid peroxidation pathways. Lipid peroxidation was measured by the thiobarbituric acid test for malondialdehyde (MDA) and the isolation of hydroperoxy fatty acids (HPETE) by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Prostanoids were measured by radioimmunoassay and the separation of labeled compounds by HPLC. MDA, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, and PGE2 were formed when cells were challenged with arachidonic acid and these cells synthesized small amounts of one HPETE isomer, 15-HPETE. The HPETE isomers characteristic of the lipoxygenase pathway, 12-HPETE and 5-HPETE, were not detected. Furthermore, the lipoxygenase inhibitors, eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA) and 6,7-dihydroxycoumarin (Esculetin), did not block MDA formation. These data show that MDA is not generated in the cells by a lipoxygenase pathway. The cyclooxygenase inhibitors, indomethacin and ETYA, did not block MDA formation but these agents blocked the formation of 15-HPETE. These data show both that 15-HPETE is generated by a cooxidation pathway and that 15-HPETE and cooxidation are not involved in MDA formation. Three inhibitors of cytochrome P450 linked lipid peroxidation, 2-amino-3-ethoxycarbonyl-6-benzyl-4, 5,6,7-tetrahydrothieno-[2,3-C]-pyridine (Tinoridine), 3-methyl-1,2-di-3-pyridyl-1-propanone (Metyrapone) and phenobarbital, did not block MDA formation. These data support earlier studies that indicated that MDA is not generated by a P450 pathway. Cells contained a bound precursor that decomposed to MDA when cells were treated with Fe3+. The cells exhibited autofluorescence and concentric lamellae in lipid droplets that are characteristic of ceroid-lipofuscin. These observations are consistent with lipid peroxidation through increased peroxisomal activity leading to the generation of MDA and the accumulation of ceroid-lipofuscin. The natural antioxidants, vitamin E and vitamin E quinone (EQ), and the synthetic antioxidants, butylated hydroxytoluene and nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), alpha-naphthol (alpha-N) and propyl gallate (PrGa), all blocked MDA formation in confluent smooth muscle cells, showing that these antioxidants did not function solely as specific inhibitors of lipoxygenase, cooxidation or P450 pathways. Cell proliferation was measured in cells challenged with arachidonic acid and treated with antioxidants and other inhibitors. The least cytotoxic and most potent antioxidant, EQ, blocked MDA formation in confluent cells and promoted grow
Effects of deposition temperature and substrate bias on orientation and hardness of thick sputter deposited beryllium foils

Abstract Sputter deposited beryllium examined in this investigation displayed strong crystallographic textures for deposition temperatures ranging from 9 °C to 560 °C. Texture varied with deposition temperature and substrate bias, with {002}, {100}, and {110} textures being observed. Deposit hardness ranging from 275 to 880 DPH were obtained. The data obtained in this investigation indicate that it should be possible to sputter-deposit free-standing beryllium foils with specified properties. The strong crystallographic texture of such foild should minimize dimensional instability arising from non-uniformity of texture.
Technical analysis of the Slosson written expression test

The Slosson Written Expression Test was designed to assess students ages 8-17 years at risk for difficulties in written expression. Scores from three independent samples were used to evaluate the test's reliability and validity for measuring students' written expression. Test-retest reliability of the SWET subscales ranged from .80 to .94 (n = 151), and .95 for the Written Expression Total Standard Scores. The median alternate-form reliability for students' Written Expression Total Standard Scores was .81 across the three forms. Scores on the Slosson test yielded concurrent validity coefficients (n = 143) of .60 with scores from the Woodcock-Johnson: Tests of Achievement-Third Edition Broad Written Language Domain and .49 with scores on the Test of Written Language-Third Edition Spontaneous Writing Quotient. Exploratory factor analytic procedures suggested the Slosson test is comprised of two dimensions, Writing Mechanics and Writing Maturity (47.1% and 20.1% variance accounted for, respectively). In general, the Slosson Written Expression Test presents with sufficient technical characteristics to be considered a useful written expression screening test.
Synergistic effects of endothelin-1 (ET-1) and transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α) or epidermal growth factor (EGF) on DNA replication and G1 to S phase transition

The cooperative cell kinetic actions of ET-1 with TGF-α or EGF in normal rat kidney fibroblasts (NRK-49F) and KNRK cells (Kirsten MSV transformed) were analyzed by [3H]-thymidine incorporation assay and flow cytometry. A marked synergistic effect of TGF-α and ET-1 (or EGF and ET-1) on DNA synthesis and G1 to S transition was observed in NRK cells; 15–20% S for TGF-α and 12% S for ET-1 alone but 45–50% S in combination. There was no detectable effect on cell cycle kinetics by TGF-α (1 ng/ml) or EGF (1 ng/ml) plus ET-1 (1 ng/ml) in KNRK cells treated for 22 hours. Insulin, insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), fibroblast growth factor (FGF), platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) were also tested and found to have no significant synergistic effects on ET-1 actions. Our findings suggest that the combination of TGF-α (EGF) and ET-1 is an important part of an intricate network which coordinates progression of G1 to S phase in normal cells.
Using exploratory focus groups to inform the development of targeted COPD self-management education DVDs for rural patients

This exploratory study assessed the self-management learning needs, experiences, and perspectives of COPD patients treated at a Certified Federal Rural Health Clinic to inform the development of a COPD self-management DVD. A purposive, homogeneous sample of COPD patients participated in focus group interviews. Data from these interviews were referenced to edit a library of Rvision COPD self-management DVDs into a single condensed DVD containing only the most pertinent self-management topics. Patients reported a lack of knowledge and skill development related to purse lipped breathing, controlled coughing, and stress management; while medication management skills were found to be quite adequate. Engaging rural communities in formal qualitative inquiries to describe COPD specific needs for self-management may lead to future use of educational technologies aimed at improving quality of life for these rural, hard to reach populations.
Coronary microcirculatory vasodilator function in relation to risk factors among patients without obstructive coronary disease and low to intermediate Framingham score.

Aims The study aim was to evaluate the relation between the Framingham risk score (FRS) and the presence of coronary risk factors to coronary microcirculatory vasodilator function in patients with early coronary atherosclerosis. Methods and results We evaluated 1063 patients (age: 50 ± 12 years, 676 (64%) females) without significant narrowing (<30%) on coronary angiography who underwent invasive assessment of coronary endothelial function. Coronary blood flow (CBF) in response to the endothelium-dependent vasodilator acetylcholine was evaluated as well as the microvascular (endothelium-independent) coronary flow reserve (CFR) in response to intracoronary adenosine. Coronary blood flow and CFR were analysed in relation to the FRS and the presence of traditional and novel risk factors. The estimated 10 years risk in this group was 5.4 ± 5.2%. Higher FRS was associated with lower CBF in men ( P = 0.008), and was a univariate predictor of lower CFR ( P = 0.012) in all patients. Multivariable analysis identified a higher FRS ( P < 0.001), female sex ( P < 0.001) and a positive family history of coronary disease ( P = 0.043) as independent predictors of reduced CFR. Conclusion In patients without obstructive coronary disease, a higher FRS was an independent predictor of reduced CFR. The current study provides insight into the relation between cardiac risk profile and coronary microcirculatory function, and suggests that impaired microcirculatory vasodilator function may be present even in patients with a low to intermediate Framingham score.