cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review of Single-Case Research on Video Analysis as Professional Development for Special Educators

Studies using video analysis are being reported more frequently in the literature. Although the body of research suggests that video analysis is effective for changing educators’ instructional prac...
TGFβ promotes breast cancer stem cell self-renewal through an ILEI/LIFR signaling axis

FAM3C/Interleukin-like EMT Inducer (ILEI) is an oncogenic member of the FAM3 cytokine family and serves essential roles in both epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and breast cancer metastasis. ILEI expression levels are regulated through a non-canonical TGFβ signaling pathway by 3′-UTR-mediated translational silencing at the mRNA level by hnRNP E1. TGFβ stimulation or silencing of hnRNP E1 increases ILEI translation and induces an EMT program that correlates with enhanced invasion and migration. Recently, EMT has been linked to the formation of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) that confer both tumor cell heterogeneity as well as chemoresistant properties. Herein, we demonstrate that hnRNP E1 knockdown significantly shifts normal mammary epithelial cells to mesenchymal BCSCs in vitro and in vivo. We further validate that modulating ILEI protein levels results in the abrogation of these phenotypes, promoting further investigation into the unknown mechanism of ILEI signaling that drives tumor progression. We identify LIFR as the receptor for ILEI, which mediates signaling through STAT3 to drive both EMT and BCSC formation. Reduction of either ILEI or LIFR protein levels results in reduced tumor growth, fewer tumor initiating cells and reduced metastasis within the hnRNP E1 knock-down cell populations in vivo. These results reveal a novel ligand-receptor complex that drives the formation of BCSCs and represents a unique target for the development of metastatic breast cancer therapies.
Diet Quality in Early Care and Education Centers: A Comparison of Menu, Served, and Consumed Lunch Measures

Abstract Objective Assess if diet quality (DQ) differs among 3 lunch measures commonly used to assess DQ in early care and education (ECE) centers, which include what is listed on the menu, served, and consumed. Design This quantitative observational study measured DQ of food and beverage items listed on the menu, what children were served, and what they consumed during one lunch meal. Setting Alabama ECE centers. Participants ECE centers (n = 28) with attendance of ≥10 children ages 3 to 5 years and provided lunch daily. Main Outcome Measure(s) DQ measured through Healthy Eating Index–2015 (HEI) scores, which were calculated for the menu, served, and consumed lunch measures. Analysis Menu, served, and consumed HEI scores compared using either Kruskal-Wallis or ANOVA. Dunn Bonferroni or Duncan post hoc tests identified which group differed. Results Total HEI scores were significantly higher among menus, compared with served and consumed (P = .001). Served and consumed total HEI scores were not different. Conclusions and Implications Menu DQ differed from both the served and consumed lunch measures. These findings support the need for nutrition education on the importance of menu adherence in ECE centers.
Mime: A Movement Program for the Visually Handicapped.

Describes an experimental study with two groups of subjects to determine whether mime techniques are useful for teaching movement to the visually handicapped. Includes class and subject description...
Oral care for the homebound and institutionalized.

This article uses a case history to show how a simple dental problem can affect nutrition, mood, behavior, and the use of medication for a resident of a long-term care institution. Barriers to oral health in institutions are identified and suggestions to overcome these barriers are offered. The components of an effective oral health care program for institutions also are presented.
Processes underlying restoration of temperate savanna and woodland ecosystems: Emerging themes and challenges

Abstract Open forests of savanna and woodlands span the spectrum between closed canopy forests and treeless grasslands, and therefore contain structure, composition, and function distinctive from either endpoint. In this special issue, researchers provide examples from different open forest ecosystems to examine the underlying ecological principles and specific management challenges affecting successful restoration of these systems. Emergent themes include the role of open forest systems for biodiversity, fire as an underlying process, and the similarities and differences in ecosystem restoration goals under different ecological and social contexts. Consistent challenges include effective application of fire, the commonly observed pattern of “mesophication” that occurs in the absence of fire (including woody densification and changes to belowground processes) and the distinction between structural restoration and compositional restoration – where the former is necessary but not sufficient to restore the latter. Given the uncertainty of ecosystems increasingly stressed by human activity, the restoration of open forests should be among the suite of options considered given both their historic prevalence and current benefits to ecosystem services and biodiversity.
Local learning from municipal ransomware attacks: A geographically weighted analysis

Abstract The prevalence of security threats like ransomware continues to increase and victimize a wide range of targets, which includes municipal information systems. These attacks are commonly reported in media outlets available in attacked communities. This study seeks to understand how effective news reporting can be toward influencing the behavior of people who live within the proximity of the attack. The results suggest a geographic influence on individual behaviors that could well extend beyond the context of information security into other areas of behavioral IS research.
Psychological Response to the Diagnosis of Advanced Cancer: A Systematic Review.

Background Despite major efforts to address psychological distress and quality of life (QOL) in people with cancer, only none to small intervention effect has been observed. There is reason to question whether psychosocial needs of patients have already been met under the usual oncology care. Purpose The purpose of this systematic review was to examine changes in depression, anxiety and QOL during the existential plight in advanced cancer. Methods A literature search was performed in the PubMed and APA PsycINFO databases from year 1976 up to May 31, 2021. Longitudinal observational or experimental research targeting depression, anxiety or QOL in advanced cancer (stage III or IV), with baseline time since cancer diagnosis within 100 days, follow-up within 16 weeks post-baseline were eligible. Quality rating was based on the GRADE guidelines. Results Overall QOL did not reveal clinically relevant changes for the majority of studies as evaluated by effect size and raw score changes (median effect size 0.01, interquartile range -0.10-0.15). Nonetheless, modest to moderate improvement was found for depression (median effect size 0.28, interquartile range 0.03-0.38) and anxiety (median effect size 0.57, interquartile range 0.32-0.79). Conclusion Transient distress symptoms and temporarily reduced functioning in the oncology setting may be considered normal, whereas impaired overall QOL needs to be addressed. Developing innovative interventions that enhance QOL for patients newly diagnosed with advanced cancer without interfering with patients' natural adaptation process is imperative.
Common Carriage: The Once and Potentially Future Form of Communications Regulation

Common carriage was the primary concept of communications regulation in 20th century, and it may very well be the primary concept in the future. The vintage of common carriage is likely more of an indication of its enduring strength rather than it being a weakness. In this paper, we focus on a rarely considered question: what exactly is a common carrier? Relatedly, what isn’t a common carrier? One might assume that with hundreds of years of legal precedent, the answers to these questions would be unambiguously answered. As it turns out, they are not.
A functional magnetic bead/biocell sorter using fully integrated magnetic micro/nano tips

This paper presents a new functional magnetic sorter using micromachined magnetic micro/nano tips for magnetic bead or biocell sorting in microfluidic systems. Magnetic interconnection technology using through-hole vias can hide fully integrated electromagnetic inductors underneath the device, so only magnetic micro/nano tips are exposed to integrated microchannels, which gives a wide flexibility in constructing microfluidic systems with the magnetic sorter. Using the developed magnetic sorter, magnetic beads have been functionally sorted.
Quickest Change Detection

Abstract The problem of detecting changes in the statistical properties of a stochastic system and time series arises in various branches of science and engineering. It has a wide spectrum of important applications ranging from machine monitoring to biomedical signal processing. In all of these applications the observations being monitored undergo a change in distribution in response to a change or anomaly in the environment, and the goal is to detect the change as quickly as possibly, subject to false alarm constraints. In this chapter, two formulations of the quickest change detection problem, Bayesian and minimax, are introduced, and optimal or asymptotically optimal solutions to these formulations are discussed. Then some generalizations and extensions of the quickest change detection problem are described. The chapter is concluded with a discussion of applications and open issues.
Computer Resource Optimization for Differentiated Customer Services

In enterprise computing, customer requests often need to be distinguished, with different request characteristics and customers different service requirements. In this paper, we consider a set of computer resources used by a service provider to host enterprise applications for differentiated customer services subject to a service level agreement. We present an approach for resource optimization in such an environment that minimizes the total cost of computer resources used by a service provider for such an application while satisfying the QoS metric that the response time for executing differentiated service requests is statistically bounded. That is, each a(r)% of the time the response time is less than a pre-defined value for class r customers. This QoS metric is more realistic than the mean response time typically used in the literature. Numerical results show the applicability of the approach and validate its accuracy.
Imitation and social learning for synthetic characters

An increasing amount of evidence suggests that in human infants the ability to learn by watching others, and in particular, the ability to imitate, could be crucial precursors to the development of appropriate social behavior, and ultimately the ability to reason about the thoughts, intents, beliefs, and desires of others [6]. We have created a number of imitative characters and robots [2], the latest of which is Max T. Mouse, an anthropomorphic animated mouse character who is able to observe the actions he sees his friend Morris Mouse performing, and compare them to the actions he knows how to perform himself. This matching process allows Max to accurately imitate Morris’s gestures and actions, even when provided with limited synthetic visual input. Furthermore, by using his own perception, motor, and action systems as models for the behavioral and perceptual capabilities of others (a process known as Simulation Theory in the cognitive literature), Max can begin to identify simple goals and motivations for Morris’s behavior, an important step towards developing characters with a full theory of mind.
Pharmacotherapy for allergic rhinitis

Background Pharmacotherapy for allergic rhinitis is a mainstay of treatment for patients with mild to severe nasal allergy symptoms. A wide array of medical treatment options is available for both episodic relief and prevention of symptoms. Treatment regimens can be tailored to individual patients based on nasal symptoms, severity, and associated atopic disorders. The purposes of this review are to identify available pharmacotherapies for allergic rhinitis, to discuss the benefits and limitations of each treatment option, and to help guide practitioners in providing optimal medical treatment for patients with allergic rhinitis. Methods A comprehensive review of pharmacotherapies for allergic rhinitis was performed using a PubMed search. Secondary sources within indexed studies were also compiled to review current medication options for patients with allergic rhinitis. The benefits and limitations of each class of allergy medication were reviewed to provide information on selecting the optimal treatment regimen for patients with allergic rhinitis. Results Pharmacotherapies for allergic rhinitis that are currently used in clinical practice include antihistamines, corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers, mast cell stabilizers, expectorants, and decongestants. Symptoms of nasal congestion, itching, sneezing, and rhinorrhea can be targeted with specific therapies that modulate the acute-phase or late-phase allergic reactions. Associated atopic disorders, including conjunctivitis and asthma, can help guide medication selection. Conclusion Pharmacotherapies for allergic rhinitis offer numerous options that are safe, effective, and readily available to target specific nasal symptoms. Symptom-based selection of allergy medications can result in optimal treatment for patients with allergic rhinitis.
Proximal metatarsal osteotomies: a comparative geometric analysis conducted on sawbone models.

We evaluated the change in position of the first metatarsal head using a three-dimensional digitizer on sawbone models. Crescentic, closing wedge, oblique shaft (Ludloff 8° and 16°), reverse oblique shaft (Mau 8° and 16°), rotational “Z” (Scarf), and proximal chevron osteotomies were performed and secured using 3-mm screws. The 16° Ludloff provided the most lateral shift (9.5 mm) and angular correction (14.5°) but also produced the most elevation (1.4 mm) and shortening (2.9 mm). The 8° Ludloff provided lateral and angular corrections similar to those of the crescentic and closing wedge osteotomies with less elevation and shortening. Because the displacement osteotomies (Scarf, proximal chevron) provided less angular correction, the same lateral displacement, and less shortening than the basilar angular osteotomies, based upon this model they can be more reliably used for a patient with a mild to moderate deformity, a short first metatarsal, or an intermediate deformity with a large distal metatarsal arti...
Gas-Phase Metal Ion Ligation: Collision-Induced Dissociation of Fe(N2)x+ (x = 1−5) and Fe(CH2O)x+ (x = 1−4)

Thresholds for collision-induced dissociation of Fe(N2)x+ (x = 1−5) and Fe(CH2O)x+ (x = 1−4) with xenon are measured by using guided ion beam mass spectrometry. Values for the 0 K (N2)x-1Fe+−N2 bond energies (in eV) are determined to be 0.56 ± 0.06, 0.86 ± 0.09, 0.47 ± 0.06, 0.56 ± 0.04, and 0.64 ± 0.04 for x = 1−5, respectively. Values for the 0 K (CH2O)x-1Fe+−CH2O bond energies (in eV) are determined to be 1.43 ± 0.07, 1.79 ± 0.08, 1.06 ± 0.05, and 0.83 ± 0.06 for x = 1−4, respectively. The bond energy for Fe+−Xe is determined as 0.47 ± 0.08 eV. The results for the singly ligated species are in good agreement with values in the literature. These bond energies are compared with those for several other FeLx+ series including previously published values for Fe(CO)x+ (x = 1−5), which are reevaluated in light of theoretical information. The observation that the relative bond strengths vary nonmonotonically with the number of ligands is discussed in terms of spin conservation and ligand field theory.
On fast and accurate block-based motion estimation algorithms using particle swarm optimization

Both fast and accurate block-matching algorithms are critical to efficient compression of video frames using motion estimation and compensation. While the particle swarm optimization approach holds the promise of alleviating the local optima problem suffered typically by existing very fast block matching methods, motion estimation algorithms based on particle swarm optimization in the literature appear to be either much slower than some leading fast block-matching methods for a given accuracy of motion estimation, or less accurate for a given computational complexity. In this paper, we show that the conventional particle swarm optimization approach, which was originally designed to solve general optimization problems where fast convergence of the algorithm might not be a primary concern, could be modified appropriately so that it could provide accurate motion estimation with very low computational cost in the specific context of video motion estimation. To this end, we proposed a new block matching algorithm based on a set of strategies adapted from the standard particle swarm optimization approach. Extensive simulations showed that the proposed method could achieve significant improvements over leading fast block matching methods including the diamond search and the cross-diamond search methods, in terms of both estimation accuracy and computational cost. In particular, the proposed method based on particle swarm optimization is not only much faster, but also remarkably more accurate (about 2dB higher in terms of the Peak Signal-to-Noise-Ratio) than the competing methods on video sequences with large motion.
Financial Literacy and the Academic Library: Exploring the Peer-to-Peer Approach

Colleges and universities employ a variety of strategies to deliver financial education to students. Among these approaches is peer-to-peer financial education, which has been explored in many settings but never in an academic library. Following a review of financial literacy approaches used on college and university campuses by libraries, and other units and departments, this article describes the Student Financial Education Center located at Pennsylvania State University Libraries and discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of implementing a peer-to-peer financial education program in this setting.
Teaching computer applications using computer cases

The case method of teaching is used to encourage continued use of computers and programming in a student's major area after the initial course(s) in computer programming. The computer case demonstrates the real-life need for the computer application, promotes independent problem-solving and computer code generation, and exposes the student to a broad spectrum of educational experiences. The flexibility of classroom operation provided to the instructor by the case method permits efficient introduction of supplementary content material and provides the instructor with the opportunity to custom classroom discussion to elicit the maximum change in student performance with a minimum of time.The teaching of extended program applications in courses using the computer, beyond the basic computer programming courses, suffers in many curricula for a number of reasons: lack of student interest, student "fear" of programming, lack of instructor training in use of the computer, inability of instructors to relate the computer application to an existing need in real-life, excess time and effort for major project programming, and others. One approach to the teaching of computer applications which can alleviate many of these difficulties is the use of computer cases.
Cardiomyocytes from late embryos and neonates do optimal work and striate best on substrates with tissue-level elasticity: metrics and mathematics

In this review, we discuss recent studies on the mechanosensitive morphology and function of cardiomyocytes derived from embryos and neonates. For early cardiomyocytes cultured on substrates of various stiffnesses, contractile function as measured by force production, work output and calcium handling is optimized when the culture substrate stiffness mimics that of the tissue from which the cells were obtained. This optimal contractile function corresponds to changes in sarcomeric protein conformation and organization that promote contractile ability. In light of current models for myofibillogenesis, a recent mathematical model of striation and alignment on elastic substrates helps to illuminate how substrate stiffness modulates early myofibril formation and organization. During embryonic heart formation and maturation, cardiac tissue mechanics change dynamically. Experiments and models highlighted here have important implications for understanding cardiomyocyte differentiation and function in development and perhaps in regeneration processes.
An analysis by chemical class of Salmonella mutagenicity tests as predictors of animal carcinogenicity.

Abstract For a number of years, investigators have recognized that humans potentially are exposed to large numbers of genotoxicants. Many efforts have attempted to validate various short-term bioassays for use as rapid, inexpensive screens for genotoxicants — especially carcinogens. In this analysis, we examine Salmonella mutagenicity as an indicator of potential carcinogenicity by comparing published (and when possible, evaluated) Salmonella results with the evaluated Gene-Tox animal carcinogen data base. The Salmonella bioassay does especially well in those cases where the level of evidence for carcinogenicity is the strongest. Analysis shows that except for specific classes of compounds, the plate-incorporation protocol and the preincubation protocol are equally efficient at detecting mutagens. This paper also demonstrates how validation values (sensitivity, specificity, etc.) vary with chemical class. Overall, this analysis demonstrates that when used and interpreted in a meaningful chemical class context, the Salmonella bioassay remains extremely useful in identifying potential animal carcinogens.
Stress relaxation of polyisoprene–laponite nanocomposites monitored by magic angle spinning 1H NMR and optical microscopy

In order to illustrate the capacity of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to monitor compression-induced changes in the morphology of nanocomposites, solid-state NMR results were directly contrasted with optical microscopy. Increases in the interfacial area of Laponite clay in cis 1,4-polyisoprene composites were monitored during uniaxial compression. Interaction of the Co+2 in the clay galleries with the polymer decreases the polymer's 1H spin-lattice relaxation time constant (T1). The composite showed a decrease in T1 time constant with increasing compressive strain. This behavior is consistent with an increase in interfacial area of the aggregate as it breaks apart. Increases in interfacial area of the aggregate were confirmed with optical micrographs. POLYM. COMPOS., 26:799–805, 2005. © 2005 Society of Plastics Engineers
Assessment of the Disposal of Radioactive Petroleum Industry Waste in Nonhazardous Landfills Using Risk-Based Modeling

Certain petroleum production activities cause naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) to accumulate in concentrations above natural background levels, making safe and cost-effective management of such technologically enhanced NORM (TENORM) a key issue for the petroleum industry. As a result, both industry and regulators are interested in identifying cost-effective disposal alternatives that provide adequate protection of human health and the environment. One such alternative, currently allowed in Michigan with restrictions, is the disposal of TENORM wastes in nonhazardous waste landfills. The disposal of petroleum industry wastes containing radium-226 (Ra-226) in nonhazardous landfills was modeled to evaluate the potential radiological doses and health risks to workers and the public. Multiple scenarios were considered in evaluating the potential risks associated with landfill operations and the future use of the property. The scenarios were defined, in part, to evaluate the Michigan policy; sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate the impact of key parameters on potential risks. The results indicate that the disposal of petroleum industry TENORM wastes in nonhazardous landfills in accordance with the Michigan policy and existing landfill regulations presents a negligible risk to most of the potential receptors considered in this study.
Cognitive Predictors of Final Grades in Finite Mathematics.

The purpose of this study was to determine the predictive validity of using intelligence quotients, high school ranks, College Board Scholastic Aptitude Test-Mathematics (SAT-M) scores, and high school mathematics grades as predictors of the final grade in finite mathematics. A group of 123 freshmen who entered York College of Pennsylvania in September 1976 was the basis of the study. A stepwise multiple linear regression was conducted to test the predictive value of each of the variables. The findings of this research indicate that all combinations of the variables were significant at the .01 level. The SAT-M was the best predictor followed by the high school rank, high school mathematics grades, and intelligence quotients. The full model had a correlation of .611.
Health Capital and the Prenatal Environment: The Effect of Ramadan Observance during Pregnancy

This paper uses the Islamic holy month of Ramadan as a natural experiment in diurnal fasting and fetal health. Among births to Arab parents in Michigan, we find prenatal exposure to Ramadan results in lower birth weight. Exposure in the first month of gestation also reduces the number of male births. Turning to long-term "fetal origins" effects, we find Muslims in Uganda and Iraq are 20 percent more likely to be disabled as adults if early pregnancy overlapped with Ramadan. Estimated effects are larger for mental (or learning) disabilities. Our results suggest that relatively mild prenatal exposures can have persistent effects. (JEL I12, J16, O15, O17, Z12 )
An investigation of the action of diphenylhydantoin on sodium efflux in barnacle muscle fibres.

Bittar, E. E., S. S. Chen, B. G. Danielson AND E. Y. Tong. An investigation of the action of diphenylhydantoin on sodium efflux in barnacle muscle fibres. Acta physiol. scand. 1973. 89. 30–38. Sodium efflux from barnacle fibres is suppressed by external but not by internal application of diphenylhydantoin (DPH). DPH (10-4 M) at pH 7.8 reduces the Na efflux by 32 %, a value slightly less than half that obtained with 10-4 M ouabain. Ouabain has the ability to abolish the remaining Na efflux, whereas DPH incompletely abolishes the ouabain-insensitive Na efflux. The onset of inhibition by DPH is slower than that by ouabain. At lower external pH the onset of peak action by DPH is more rapid than at pH 7.8. The sensitivity of the Na efflux to DPH is unaffected by external K. However, the residual efflux from fibers poisoned with ouabain following K removal is insensitive to DPH. DPH prevents the Na efflux from responding to external acidification. It also has the power to almost completely reverse the effect of external acidification on the Na efflux. It is provisionally concluded that the T-system is the site of DPH action.
Cluster Ion Formation in Electrosprays of Acetonitrile Seeded with Ionic Liquids

Clusters formed in positive electrosprays of several room-temperature molten salts A+B- dissolved (∼1 mM) in acetonitrile are investigated in their natural charge state by high resolution differential mobility analysis. They exhibit a peculiar pattern of singly and doubly charged cluster ions (A+)z(AB)n. For z = 1, there is a first series of clusters with n values typically from 0 to 3, peaking at about n = 1, and a second series with n values up to 8−12, peaking at about n = 6. Doubly charged clusters exhibit also two well-separated groups of ions. The two distinct series observed are attributed to two different ionization mechanisms, the small clusters forming by ion evaporation, and the large ones as charged residues from evaporating drops. The new ability to distinguish ions formed by either scheme provides information on the ranges of cluster sizes that may ion evaporate. Noteworthy is the observation that clusters grouping two cations do evaporate directly from the liquid surface.
Recognition of seven base pair sequences in the minor groove of DNA by ten-ring pyrrole-imidazole polyamide hairpins

A new upper limit of binding site size is defined for the hairpin polyamide-DNA motif. Ten-ring hairpin polyamides containing pyrrole (Py) and imidazole (Im) amino acids were designed for recognition of seven base pair (bp) sequences in the minor groove of DNA. The DNA binding properties of two polyamides, ImPyPyPyPy-γ-ImPyPyPyPy-β-Dp, and ImImPyPyPy-γ-ImPyPyPyPy-β-Dp were analyzed by footprinting and affinity cleavage on a DNA fragment containing the respective match sites 5‘-TGTAACA-3‘ and 5‘-TGGAACA-3‘. Quantitative footprint titrations demonstrate that ImPyPyPyPy-γ-ImPyPyPyPy-β-Dp binds the 7-bp match sequence 5‘-TGTAACA-3‘ with an equilibrium association constant (K_a) of K_a = 1.2 × 10^(10) M^(-1) and 18-fold specificity versus the single base pair mismatch sequence 5‘-TGGAACA-3‘. ImImPyPyPy-γ-ImPyPyPyPy-β-Dp differs from ImPyPyPyPy-γ-ImPyPyPyPy-β-Dp by a single amino acid substitution and binds its match 5‘-TGGAACA-3‘ site with K_a = 3.6 × 10^9 M^(-1) and 300-fold specificity versus its corresponding single base pair mismatch sequence 5‘-TGTAACA-3‘. Ten-ring hairpin polyamides have binding affinities similar to those of eight-ring hairpin polyamides. These results indicate that the affinity of hairpin binding ceases to increase as the length of the polyamide subunits increases beyond four rings, analogous to the behavior of unlinked subunits. Therefore, recognition of seven base pairs by a ten-ring hairpin polyamide most likely represents an upper limit to the effective targetable site size of the hairpin polyamide-DNA motif.
Transfer factor: a potential agent for immunotherapy of cancer.

Transfer factor (TF) is an extract from human leukocytes which has been shown to transfer specific skin test reactivity to previously nonreactive human recipients, and to produce measurable increases in in Vitro tests of lymphocyte activity. The results of the experimental use of TF as an immunotherapeutic agent for cancer are reviewed. TF therapy has been associated with tumor regression, temporary stabilization or reduced need for other treatment modalities in several reported cancer patients, and may have value as an adjuvant therapy in certain malignancies. However, most of the reports involve uncontrolled studies, and no agreement exists about the definition of TF donors. Controlled studies and the use of well characterized TF donors are essential before any conclusions can be drawn about the value of TF in the therapy of cancer and other diseases.
Estimating Spatiotemporal Variability of Ambient Air Pollutant Concentrations with A Hierarchical Model.

Studies have linked exposure to air pollutants to short-term and sub-chronic health outcomes. However, individual-level air pollution exposure is difficult to measure at a high spatial and temporal resolution and for larger populations due to limitations in sampling techniques. We presented a hierarchical model to capture spatiotemporal variability of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) concentrations in Southern California by combining high temporal resolution data from routine monitoring stations with high spatial resolution data from investigator-initiated episodic measurements. In this model, the spatiotemporal field of concentrations was first decomposed into a mean and residual and the mean representing the seasonal trend was further decomposed into a constant and varying temporal basis functions. The mean of the spatially varying coefficients of temporal basis functions were modeled by local covariates using non-linear generalized additive model and least square fitting using measurements from both routine monitoring and additional episodic sampling locations, while the spatially-correlated residuals of the coefficients were co-kriged. We found traffic, land-use and wind accounted for a large portion of the variance (beyond 35%) for the long-term average trend of concentrations. Spatial residuals accounted for a large portion of the variance of the temporal components (about 30% for NO2 and 20% for NOx). Leave-one-out cross validation produced an R-2 of 0.84 for NO2 and 0.81 for NOx when comparing the modeled weekly concentration with the observed trends at all routine monitoring stations. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Tillich and Plato

Although Tillich frequently denies that "being-itself "~ is a being, 1 there is, nevertheless, a residual sense in which Tillich allows that being-itself is also a singular existing individual, z I t can be seen, for example, when TiUich identifies being-itself as "the divine life", a or when he proclaims that "there is of course that being which is beyond essence and existence, which . . . we call God or, if you prefer, 'being-itself'. ''~ Moreover, TiUich informs us that being-itself has "qualities ''~ and "manifestations". ~ Most important, however, is the fact that Tillich is never hesitant in using "being-itself" as an irreducible abstract proper name viz., as the singular subject of subject-predicate assertions. 7
Testosterone dependence of scent marking by male hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus).

Flank marking by male hamsters in response to the odors of other males was studied when the males were intact, castrated, and given testosterone replacement therapy. Marking frequency decreased after castration and increased to original levels after testosterone replacement; the latency to mark showed reciprocal changes. These data support the hypothesis that mammalian scent marking related to agonistic behaviors and dominance status is testosterone dependent.
The R&D Outsourcing Decision: Environmental Factors and Strategic Considerations

We develop a framework for understanding the direct and indirect influence of various strategic considerations and environmental factors on the project-level R&D outsourcing decision. We argue that environmental factors can act as shift parameters that increase or decrease the costs of outsourcing. We further posit that it is important to consider firm-level strategic considerations in addition to the project- and transaction-level characteristics that are typically the focus of an R&D outsourcing decision, which highlights the importance of integrating the information possessed by managers from different levels of the organization. Finally, we discuss several directions for future research in this increasingly important area of innovation and technology management.
Signaling pathways underlying muscarinic receptor-induced [Ca2+]i oscillations in HEK293 cells.

Abstract We have investigated the signaling pathways underlying muscarinic receptor-induced calcium oscillations in human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. Activation of muscarinic receptors with a maximal concentration of carbachol (100 μm) induced a biphasic rise in cytoplasmic calcium ([Ca2+]i) comprised of release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores and influx of Ca2+ from the extracellular space. A lower concentration of carbachol (5 μm) induced repetitive [Ca2+]i spikes or oscillations, the continuation of which was dependent on extracellular Ca2+. The entry of Ca2+ with 100 μm carbachol and with the sarcoplasmic-endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase inhibitor, thapsigargin, was completely blocked by 1 μmGd3+, as well as 30–100 μm concentrations of the membrane-permeant inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor inhibitor, 2-aminoethyoxydiphenyl borane (2-APB). Sensitivity to these inhibitors is indicative of capacitative calcium entry. Arachidonic acid, a candidate signal for Ca2+ entry associated with [Ca2+]i oscillations in HEK293 cells, induced entry that was inhibited only by much higher concentrations of Gd3+ and was unaffected by 100 μm 2-APB. Like arachidonic acid-induced entry, the entry associated with [Ca2+]i oscillations was insensitive to inhibition by Gd3+ but was completely blocked by 100 μm 2-APB. These findings indicate that the signaling pathway responsible for the Ca2+ entry driving [Ca2+]i oscillations in HEK293 cells is more complex than originally thought, and may involve neither capacitative calcium entry nor a role for PLA2 and arachidonic acid.
The physics of the τ lepton

Abstract A comprehensive review of the status of τ-lepton physics is presented. We include the knowledge on the properties of the tau, the decay branching fractions and tests of the standard model. Discussions of possible puzzles and an indication of the future possibilities in this field are a lso presented.
Instrument for underwater measurement of optical backscatter

ABSTRACT A backscatter sensor has been developed for rapidly measuring, in situ, the volume scattering function (VSF) in the back-ward direction. The backscatter sensor uses a bistatic optical geometry to measure backscatter from a small volume of sea-water over a range of scattering angles from approximately 1 15° to 170°. The calibration of the sensor yields a weighted,angular averaged value of the VSF with a centroid located at a scattering angle of about 150°. The backscatter sensor designis based on a sensitive synchronous detector and pulsed, light-emitting diode that has been used at visible and near-infraredwavelengths. The entire sensor package, which includes circuitry for digitizing the signal, is contained in a compact, ruggedhousing. The sensor has been deployed both in towed arrays and in stationary profiling mode. Scattering profiles from tworecent deployments are presented. 1. INTRODUCTION SRI's backscatter sensors were originally developed as part of a suite of instruments designed to measure optical parame-ters of seawater that are of particular importance as "sea-truth" for undersea lidar applications.1 These instruments weredeployed by SRI in support of DARPA's LIDEX experiments in 1982 and 1983.2,3 'fl backscatter sensors have since beenused on several Navy experiments to provide depth profiles of optical backscatter in ocean water'1. We have also successfullyused the backscatter sensor, with minor modifications, to detect marine particles and determine their concentration and sizedistribution.5The backscatter sensor uses a bistatic optical geometry to measure backscatter from a small volume of seawater. Asshown in Section 2, the scattered light received by the detector results from scattering over a range of angles from approxi-mately 1 15° to 170°. The calibration of the sensor, described in Section 3, yields a weighted, angular averaged value of thevolume scattering function (VSF) from the digital signal produced by the sensor. Data taken in ocean waters are presented inSection 4.
Fluctuation conductivity in inhomogeneous superconductors

We analyze the superconducting transition of inhomogeneous and fractal materials. We show that the relevant dimensionality for the fluctuations spectrum is the spectral dimension of the self-similar regime. We model general inhomogeneous materials by percolation theory and calculate their superconducting transition as a superposition of the homogeneous and the self-similar regimes. Our calculations agrees well with measurements on Al−Ge thin films that exhibit percolation structure. We further analyze various possibilities of inhomogeneous materials where an homogenization procedure is possible.
Impotence in diabetes: an overview.

Abstract Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of organic impotence; upwards of 40% of diabetic men suffer from impotence. The author describes the various factors and mechanisms involved in diabetic impotence and discusses the secondary psychological reactions that may develop. Guidelines are given for diagnosis (including a discussion of the special laboratory studies that may be required) and treatment (which is dictated by the partic ular diagnosis).
Z Disc Ultrastructure in Scutal Depressor Fibers of the Barnacle

The ultrastrlucture of Z discs in nonglycerinated, striated muscle fibers of the barnacle Balanus nubilus Darwin was examined in contracted, resting, and stretched preparations. At all sarcomnere lengths, the Z discs are perforated sheets comprised of "Z rimns" and "Z perforations," extending continuously across the myofibril; the dimensions of the rims and perforations change with changes in sarcomere length. Accordingly, with shortening of the sarcomere, there was an accompanying decrease in the transverse width of the Z rims and an increase in the diameter of the Z perforations.
Arylsulfatase A and beta-galactosidase activities in leukocytes and lymphocytes from normal and psychiatric subjects. Effects of blood-processing delay and interleukin-2 stimulation.

Arylsulfatase A (ASA) and cerebroside-β-galactosidase activities in leukocytes serve as a diagnostic tool for determining the presence of metachromatic leukodystrophy and globoid cell leukodystrophy, respectively. It has not been demonstrated whether a delay in blood processing and the presence of mixed cell types in different proportions in leukocytes affect the activities of the two enzymes in these cells. We have in the present study determined the specific activity in leukocytes and lymphocytes (T-cells) prepared from blood samples processed immediately after, 4, and 24 h after collection. In order to determine whether the enzyme activitiies in lymphocytes reflect expression of genetic trait, and not environmental or “state” influence, the activities of the two enzymes in interleukin 2-stimulated T-cells and resting T-cells were compared. A delay of up to 24 h in blood processing did not significantly change the specific activities of the two enzymes in both leukocytes and lymphocytes. The specific activity of ASA and β-galactosidase in lymphocytes was 1.4–1.8 times that in leukocytes. The activities of the two enzymes in interleukin 2-stimulated T-cells did not differ from those in resting T-cells. These results indicate that blood-processing delay had no significant effects on ASA and β-galactosidase activity. The data further indicate that the ASA and β-galactosidase activity in interleukin 2-stimulated T-cells was not significantly different from resting lymphocytes from either normal or psychiatric subjects exposed to various medications. The activity levels in lymphocytes from psychiatric subjects thus reflect expression of genetic trait, rather than environmental or state influence.
Comparative group art therapy research to evaluate changes in locus of control in behavior disordered children

This paper is a report of a research study that examined the use of art therapy to modify the locus of control (LOG) and adaptive classroom behavior of children with behavior disorders. The research developed from the thesis that art therapy can be a vehicle for helping children gain control over behavior and change perceptions of power and control. Prior to a description of the research, important concepts related to the development of the study are reviewed, including: a definition and summary of LOC concepts, and the rationale for researching both a cognitivebehavioral approach to art therapy and an art as therapy approach to group art therapy.
Changing landscapes for white-tailed deer management in the 21st century: Parcelization of land ownership and evolving stakeholder values in Michigan†

White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) create positive and negative effects incurred by stakeholders throughout the midwestern United States. Knowledge of deer ecology and stakeholder values for deer are needed to match the level of acceptable impacts with the capabilities of management. To address this challenge, we 1) quantified how landscape characteristics in southwestern and south-central Michigan, USA affect the distribution and population characteristics of deer throughout agro-forested landscapes, 2) quantified factors affecting stakeholder acceptance capacity for deer, and 3) present a deer management framework based on desired levels of impacts in relation to existing conditions. We investigated ecological components by radiocollaring deer during 2001-2006 and analyzed their movements, survival, and mortality factors in landscapes with diverse land-ownerships. Sociological components were investigated through interviews and questionnaires sent to 3,520 households. Southern Michigan residents identified a visible deer herd (a perceptual cue to the naturalness of the area) as a positive impact. Concerns about deer, especially deer-vehicle collisions, were weighed against positive impacts in determining acceptable levels of deer- human interactions. Nonhunting, nonfarming rural residents, a stakeholder of increasing size and influence, perceived impacts distinct from those perceived by hunters and farmers. Small annual home ranges of yearlings-adults (77-202 ha) and fawns (60-116 ha) and high survival rates (yearling-adult ¼ 0.40-0.94, fawns ¼ 0.51-0.76) may be attributed to the parcelization of land, habitat quality, and positive values stakeholders hold for deer. Knowledge of the impacts perceived and the effect of impacts on acceptance capacity for deer may enable managers to develop management actions that complement existing programs and address stakeholder values. Knowledge of deer ecology, landscape characteristics, and responses of stakeholders to deer are critical for managing the impacts of white-tailed deer. 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Continuous transversus abdominis plane block catheter analgesia for postoperative pain control in renal transplant

Purpose Continuous transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block using a catheter has proven its usefulness in reducing opioid requirements and pain scores after lower abdominal surgery. However, there are no reports of its successful use after renal transplant. We tested the hypothesis that continuous TAP block would retrospectively reduce opioid requirement, nausea score and hospital stay after renal transplant surgery.
Edge Effects in Laminated Composite Plates

The attenuation of self-equilibrated edge stress states into the interior of a laminated plate composed of an arbitrary number of bonded, elastic, anisotropic layers is investigated in the context of Saint-Venant’s principle using the exponential decay results of Toupin, Knowles, and Horgan. To model the plate’s behavior, a semianalytical method is used with finite element interpolations over the thickness and exponential decay into the plate’s interior. The formulation leads to a second-order algebraic eigensystem whose eigenvalues are the characteristic inverse decay lengths, and corresponding right eigenvectors depict the displacement distributions of self-equilibrated traction states. Orthogonality relations between these right and left eigenvectors of the adjoint system are established. An eigenvector expansion for representing arbitrary self-equilibrated edge tractions is then presented. This approach is useful in revealing the interlaminar effects and their decay rates in a laminated composite plate under plane strain. Two examples are provided where the interlaminar phenomena due to eigenstates of self-equilibrated edge stress are illustrated.