cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Equalization and Interference Cancelation

This chapter concentrates on the modeling of intersymbol interference (ISI) channels and the various signal processing methods for recovering digital information transmitted over such channels. The chapter begins with a treatment of ISI channel modeling, including a vector representation of digital signaling on ISI channels. We then develop the maximum likelihood receiver for ISI channels, leading to an equivalent model of the ISI channel known as the discrete-time white noise channel model. We also consider the effects of using fractional sampling or over-sampling at the receiver, where the sampling rate is an integer multiple of the modulated symbol rate. We then consider the various time-domain equalization techniques, including the linear zero-forcing and minimum mean-square-error equalizers, and the nonlinear decision feedback equalizer. Later, we consider sequence estimators beginning with maximum likelihood sequence estimation (MLSE) and the Viterbi algorithm. Since the MLSE receiver can have high complexity for channels that have a long impulse response, we consider some reduced complexity sequence estimation techniques such as reduced state sequence estimation (RSSE) and delayed decision feedback sequence estimation (DDFSE). The chapter goes on to provide an analysis of the bit error rate performance of MLSE on static ISI channels and multipath fading ISI channels, and fractionally spaced MLSE receivers for ISI channels. Finally, the chapter provides a discussion of co-channel demodulation for digital signals on ISI channels, and concludes with a receiver structure that incorporates a combination of optimal combining and sequence estimation as implemented with the Viterbi algorithm.
Hepatocarcinogenic Mechanisms in Hepadnavirus-infected Hosts

Chronic hepadnavirus infection is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in natural hosts including humans, woodchucks, and Beechey ground squirrels. Several possible oncogenic mechanisms have been identified. These include a potential role of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) X (hbx) gene which has been shown to transactivate transcription regulated by certain cis-acting sequences including regulatory sequences of HBV and heterologous regulatory sequences of other viruses and cellular genes. The diversity of regulatory sequences that appear to be activated by hbx suggests that the hbx protein acts by a general mechanism that is not DNA sequence-specific. The oncogenic potential of hbx is suggested by the observation of HCC in hbx transgenic mice, oncogenic transformation of cells expressing hbx in culture, and transactivation of oncogenes c-myc and c-jun by hbx. Cis-activation of cellular oncogenes N-myc and c-myc by viral promoter insertion has been observed in woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV)-associated HCC in woodchucks by Buendia, Tiollais, et al. No such cis-activation of any cellular gene has been shown in virus-associated HCC of ground squirrels or humans. Amplification and overexpression of the c-myc gene has been found in some HCC of ground squirrels but not in woodchuck or human HCC. Point mutations in the p53 gene and allelic deletion of p53 have been found in some human HCC but not in HCC of woodchucks or ground squirrels.
Multivariate bias corrections of mechanistic water quality model predictions

Abstract Water quality networks usually do not include observations on a continuous timescale over a long period. Statistical models that use streamflow and mechanistic models that use meteorological information and land-use are commonly employed to develop continuous streamflow and nutrient records. Given the availability of long meteorological records, mechanistic models have the potential to develop continuous water quality records, but such predictions suffer from systematic biases on both streamflow and water quality constituents. This study proposes a multivariate bias correction technique based on canonical correlation analysis (CCA) – a dimension reduction technique based on multivariate multiple regression – that reduces the bias in both streamflow and loadings simultaneously by preserving the cross-correlation. We compare the performance of CCA with linear regression (LR) in removing the systematic bias from the SWAT model forced with precipitation and temperature for three selected watersheds from the Southeastern US. First, we compare the performance of CCA with LR in removing the bias in SWAT model outputs in predicting the observed streamflow and total nitrogen (TN) loadings from the Water Quality Network (WQN) dataset. We also evaluate the potential of CCA in removing the bias in SWAT model predictions at daily and monthly time scales by considering the LOADEST model predicted loadings as the predictand for CCA and LR. Evaluation of CCA with the observed dataset and at daily and streamflow time scales shows that the proposed multivariate technique not only reduces the bias in the cross-correlation between streamflow and loadings, but also improves the joint probability of estimating observed streamflow and loadings. Potential implications of the proposed bias-correction technique, CCA, in water quality forecasting and management are also discussed.
Can Federal Home Loan Banks effectively self-regulate lending to influential banks?

In principle, the threat of partial or full revocation of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) System’s charter by Congress should limit advances (collateralized loans) by FHLBs to member banks with high risks of failure that increase potential losses to the Deposit Insurance Fund. In practice, even as the risk of insolvency became apparent in the financial crisis, FHLBs renewed and in some cases increased lending to several large-bank members that eventually failed. We argue FHLBs continue to lend to large risky members both because the cooperative structure enables these banks to exert significant influence over their FHLBs, and because the risk of insolvency can be difficult to assess. Policy makers should consider regulatory or supervisory measures that limit the use of advances by large-bank members.
III-nitride photonic crystal emitters by selective photoelectrochemical etching of heterogeneous quantum well structures

We demonstrate a top-down fabrication strategy for creating a III-nitride hole array photonic crystal (PhC) with embedded quantum wells (QWs). Our photoelectrochemical (PEC) etching technique is highly bandgap selective, permitting the removal of QWs with well-defined indium (In) concentration. Room-temperature micro-photoluminescence (μ-PL) measurements confirm the removal of one multiple quantum well (MQW) while preserving a QW of differing In concentration. Moreover, PhC cavity resonances, wholly unobservable before, are present following PEC etching. Our results indicate an interesting route for creating III-nitride membranes with tailorable emission wavelengths. Our top-down fabrication approach offers exciting opportunities for III-nitride based light emitters.
Successful Treatment of Vitiligo with Crisaborole 2% Ointment

Vitiligo is a common disorder of skin pigmentation resulting from autoimmune destruction of melanocytes. A variety of topical and systemic treatment options have been tried with varying success. Here we describe the case of a man with refractory vitiligo successfully treated with topical crisaborole ointment. Crisaborole ointment is a topical phosphodiesterase (PDE)-4 inhibitor recently FDA-approved for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Previous literature has discussed the possible role of systemic PDE-4 inhibitors in vitiligo; herein, we discuss the ability of topical crisaborole to accelerate repigmentation in treatment-resistant vitiligo.
Development of a 2D Model of a SCR Catalyst on a DPF

A computationally efficient, 2D SCR catalyst on a DPF (SCR-F) model was developed to simulate the pressure drop, filtration efficiency, outlet NO, NO2, and NH3 concentrations, PM, temperature, and NH3 storage distributions. The model extends previous work (Mahadevan et al. :J. Emiss. Control. Sci. Technol.1, 83–202, 2015; Mahadevan et al. :J. Emiss. Control. Sci. Technol.1, 255–283, 2015; Mahadevan et al.:J. Emiss. Control. Sci. Technol. 3, 171–201, 2017) by adding a 2D reaction-diffusion scheme-based chemical species solver with SCR reactions inside the substrate wall (Park et al. :Ind. Eng. Chem. Res. 51, 5582–15592, 2012). The experimental data (Kadam, 2016) used for the model calibration was collected on a Johnson Matthey SCRF® operated with a 2013 Cummins 6.7L ISB engine with tests spanning a wide range of operating conditions including PM loading and oxidation with and without urea injection. The major features in the model consist of (a) inhibition of SCR reactions by wall PM, (b) SCR reaction–based energy release, and (c) diffusion in the channels, forward diffusion between PM cake and substrate wall layers. The model can simulate transient conditions including the prediction of a 60–70% decrease in the NO2-assisted PM oxidation rate during urea injection, 2D temperature distribution within 5 °C of the experimental data, and the resulting PM and NH3 storage distribution by simulating the 10–15 °C temperature rise during urea injection. The maldistribution of NO, NO2, and NH3 concentrations caused by the temperature distribution and the inhibition of SCR reactions by PM in the substrate wall was simulated and the resulting outlet emissions agreed with the experimental data. The model can also be used for 2D CPF analysis by turning off the SCR reactions.
IL8 Expression Is Associated with Prostate Cancer Aggressiveness and Androgen Receptor Loss in Primary and Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Chronic inflammation and African ancestry are implicated in prostate cancer aggressiveness, and inflammation-related genes are more highly expressed in prostate cancer in African American men. IL8 secretion is also implicated in prostate cancer progression and castration resistance. We used RNA in situ hybridization to localize IL1β, IL6, IL8, and IL10 mRNA in low- and high-grade prostate cancer from African American and European American men. IL8 was the most abundantly expressed and the only interleukin detected in tumor cells. We further interrogated IL8 expression in primary and metastatic prostate cancer tissue microarrays and both androgen-dependent and castration-resistant patient-derived xenografts (PDX). IL8 was significantly increased in both tumor and benign regions of higher grade cases (ISUP Grade Group 4-5), but there was no difference between races. We determined that IL8 expression in prostate cancer cell lines, distant metastases, and PDX lines was associated with androgen receptor (AR) loss, but not castration resistance. Reciprocal IL8 and AR expression was also observed in high IL8-expressing atrophy lesions with simultaneous AR downregulation. Finally, we show that IL8 is likely repressed by AR binding to the IL8 promoter and is inducible in prostate cancer cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide only in cells with AR loss. Likewise, AR knockdown in androgen-dependent cells induced IL8 expression, further demonstrating that AR represses IL8 expression. In conclusion, IL8 expression in the tumor microenvironment is associated with aggressive prostate cancer and with AR loss in metastatic disease. IMPLICATIONS: IL8 expression is repressed by AR and is associated with prostate cancer aggressiveness and AR loss in metastatic disease.
Low Temperature Specific Heat of Layered Transition Metal Dichalcogenides

The early work on superconductivity in layered transition metal dichalcogenides, the prototypical two-dimensional material, at Stanford in the Geballe group is reviewed. Specific heat played an important role as a characterization tool.
Youth in transition and foster care alumni as empowered consumers

This study examined perceptions of youth in transition and recent foster care alumni, regarding how child welfare services and resources may have helped them to succeed, and whether their connectio...
The association between regular cocaine use, with and without tobacco co-use, and adverse cardiovascular and respiratory outcomes.

Abstract Background Understanding the potential impact of cocaine use on health is increasingly important as cocaine use rises in the U.S. Objectives This study evaluated the associations of regular cocaine use, with and without tobacco co-use, with cardiovascular and respiratory outcomes. Methods Analysis of a limited dataset obtained through IBM Watson Health Explorys, a platform integrating electronic health record data. Matched controls were defined for: 1) cocaine-using patients (n = 8244; 44 % female); and subgroups of cocaine-using patients: 2) with an encounter diagnosis for tobacco use disorder (TUD; n = 4706); and 3) without a TUD diagnosis (non-TUD; n = 3538). Patients had at least one documented medical evaluation in the MetroHealth System (Cleveland, Ohio). Cocaine-using patients had an encounter diagnosis of cocaine abuse/dependence and/or ≥2 cocaine-positive drug screens. Control patients, with no documented cocaine-use, were matched to the cocaine-using patients on demographics, residential zip code median income, body mass index, and, for the total sample, TUD-status. Outcomes were encounter diagnosis (yes/no) of cerebrovascular accident, heart arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, subarachnoid hemorrhage, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and all-cause mortality. Results TUD-patients had the greatest prevalence of cardiovascular and respiratory disease, regardless of cocaine-use indication. In the total sample, TUD, and non-TUD subgroups, regular cocaine use was significantly associated with greater risk for cerebrovascular accident, arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, asthma, COPD, pneumonia and mortality. Conclusions Cocaine use is associated with significantly greater risk of adverse cardiovascular and respiratory diagnoses and all-cause mortality.
Evaluation of sequencing batch bioreactor followed by media filtration for organic carbon and nitrogen removal in produced water

Abstract Produced water contains high concentrations of total dissolved solids (TDS), metals, and organic matter. In areas of high water stress, beneficial reuse of produced water needs to be considered. This study evaluates the treatment capabilities, efficiency, and limitations of a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) to remove organic material and nutrients from produced water. SBRs have been used to facilitate biological organic and nutrient removal from municipal and industrial waste streams. Although the bacteria responsible for the treatment of municipal and most industrial wastewaters cannot tolerate the high TDS concentrations in produced water, the microorganisms native to produced water have the capacity to treat produced water. In a bench scale bioreactor test using produced water from the Denver-Julesburg Basin, the produced water was determined to be nutrient limited with respect to phosphorus. By adding a phosphorus supplement, soluble chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal was increased by over 20 % and ammonia removal increased by approximately 40 %. Various supplements, including KH2PO4, centrate from an anaerobic digester, and activated sludge from a municipal SBR, were added to the bioreactors to determine which of them was more effective. A pilot scale SBR followed by media filtration was used to evaluate the effects of operating conditions on produced water treatment. The hydraulic residence time ranged from 1.67 to 8.3 days during various phases of operation, with no measured effect on treatment performance. Adding 7.5 mg-P/L of KH2PO4 as a phosphorus supplement had the most significant effect on treatment performance of the system. The majority of COD removal switched locations from the filter columns to the bioreactors. Comparing total organic carbon to COD, the biologically available portion of COD appears to be treated in the SBR while recalcitrant carbon and inorganic material may need to be removed via physical or chemical methods.
Performance Assessment of Discrete-Event Drag Modulation for Mars Entry with Real-Time Guidance

Entry flight performance is assessed for single-stage discrete-event drag-modulation trajectory control on Mars with two different real-time guidance algorithms: a heuristic velocity trigger and nu...
Noninvasive Approximation of Linear Dynamic System Networks Using Polytrees

We consider the problem of approximating a complex network of linear dynamic systems via a simpler network, with the goal of highlighting the most significant connections. Indeed, paradoxically, an approximate network with fewer edges could be more informative in terms of how a system operates than a more accurate representation including a large number of “weak” links. Broadly, this article explores the meaning of approximating a network belonging to a certain class using another network belonging to a subset of its class (the set of approximators). We posit that any network approximation algorithm is expected to satisfy at least a congruity property. By congruity, we mean that if the approximated network belongs to the set of approximators, then the algorithm should map it into itself. From a technical perspective, we choose a class of dynamic networks with a directed tree (polytree) structure as a set of approximators and analytically derive a technique, which asymptotically satisfies the congruity property when the observation horizon approaches infinity. Also, we test such a technique using high-frequency financial data. Financial data provide a challenging benchmark since they are not expected to meet the theoretical assumptions behind our methodology, such as linearity or stationarity.
Engaging Institutional Stakeholders to Develop and Implement Guidelines for Recruiting Participants in Research Studies Using Social Media: Mixed Methods, Multi-Phase Process.

Background: Limited regulatory guidance surrounding the use of social media channels for participant recruitment is an interdisciplinary challenge. Establishing stakeholder-informed procedures is essential for ethical and effective use of social media for participant recruitment. Objective: This study aims to provide replicable procedures for developing and implementing guidelines for using social media to recruit participants in research studies. Methods: Social media use cases at the university were used to identify institutional stakeholders for the initiative. After establishing workflow procedures, a scoping review of web-based materials about recruitment and research on the internet and social media from 19 peer institutions and 2 federal agencies was conducted to inform the structure of the policies and procedures. End users (investigators and study coordinators; N=14) also provided feedback on the policies and procedures and implementation. Results: Representatives (n=7) from 5 institutional offices and 15 subject-matter experts from 5 areas were identified as stakeholders in the development of policies and procedures. Peers with web-based materials (n=16) identified in the scoping review revealed 4 themes that served as a basis for developing our policies and procedures. End user feedback further informed the policies and procedures and implementation. A centrally managed social media account for communicating with participants and hosting advertising campaigns on social media was also established and, when combined with the policies and procedures, resulted in 39 advertising campaigns, and 2846 participants were enrolled in health and clinical research studies. Conclusions: Our policies and procedures allow research teams to harness the potential of social media to increase study recruitment and participation; the transparent, stakeholder-informed process can be replicated by institutional administrators to establish policies and procedures that meet the interests and needs of their research community.
A NEW MODEL OF RATE DEPENDENT ELASTIC-PLASTIC FLOW

We present the results of 2D lagrangian hydrodynamic simulations of cylinder impact experiments using a recently developed model for rate-dependent elastic-plastic flow. This model, which takes advantage of empirical scaling relations in terms of melting temperature and shear modulus is consistent with the very high strain-rate behavior deduced from overdriven shock data and is in good agreement with the temperature and density dependence of the flow stress where known. Calculations for uranium and copper are discussed.
The Hot White Dwarf Population in the EUVE Survey

The processes leading to the formation of white dwarf stars are known only in their most general principles; post-asymptotic giant branch evolution, leading to the formation of C-O degenerate cores, is possibly the main formation channel of white dwarf stars. In contrast, observations of hot white dwarf stars and studies of their main population characteristics offer detailed insights into the origin and evolution of these objects. We examine some new facts uncovered in the study of the survey of hot white dwarf stars at extreme ultraviolet (EUV) wavelengths. We describe model atmosphere techniques required to interpret these observations and discuss some implications of our findings for stellar evolution theory.
The IntraCluster Medium: An Invariant Stellar IMF

Evidence supporting the hypothesis of an invariant stellar Initial Mass Function is strong and varied. The intra-cluster medium in rich clusters of galaxies is one of the few contrary locations where recent interpretations of the chemical abundances have favoured an IMF that is biased towards massive stars, compared to the `normal' IMF. This interpretation hinges upon the neglect of Type Ia supernovae to the ICM enrichment, and a particular choice of the nucleosynthesis yields of Type II supernovae. We demonstrate here that when one adopts yields determined empirically from observations of Galactic stars, rather than the uncertain model yields, a self-consistent picture may be obtained with an invariant stellar IMF, and about half of the iron in the ICM being produced by Type Ia supernovae.
Proteins in a small world

Layering three-dimensional structural information on top of protein interaction networks reveals two different kinds of highly connected proteins or "hubs."
Microimmunoelectrophoresis: comparison of template with nontemplate methods.

Abstract An improved template microscope slide immunodiffusion technique is described and compared with the form of nontemplate microscope slide immunoelectrophoresis currently used. The template technique is shown to have numerous advantages over nontemplate techniques which include greater sensitivity, more universal reproducibility, greater adaptability and simplicity, and more freedom from technical factors which lead to development of confusing artifacts. A comparison of immunoelectrophoresis tests carried out in agar gels made up at 1 and 2 per cent shows that the latter concentration yields finer precipitin arcs and better resolution but may cause a loss in sensitivity and has photographic disadvantages. The common practice of agar-precoating glass slides to be used in agar immunoelectrophoresis has been discarded in favor of waterproofing them, a procedure which lowers fraction trailing and increases resolution.
Silent Combat: Do Managers Use Share Repurchases to Trade Against Short Sellers?

We provide large sample evidence in response to anecdotal accounts that some managers increase corporate share repurchases in response to an increase in short selling. We discover a robust positive association exists between changes in quarterly share repurchases and contemporaneous changes in short interest. The positive association exists in univariate tests, multivariate models, and subsamples. Some companies are therefore increasing share repurchases when shorts believe the stock is overvalued. The next question is whether they do so to support overvalued equity, which would be a serious violation of the SEC requirement that price be set by “independent market forces without undue influence by the issuer” (SEC 2003). We examine future stock prices, accounting fundamentals, and trading by insiders for evidence of overvaluation. The overall evidence is more consistent with equity that is fairly valued, which would mean that managers trade against the shorts when shorts are mistaken. An unsolved puzzle is why the shorts sellers do not react by unwinding their higher positions.
The value of routine evaluation of gastric residuals in very low birth weight infants.

Little information exists regarding gastric residual (GR) evaluation prior to feedings in premature infants. The purpose of this study was to compare the amount of feedings at 2 and 3 weeks of age, number of days to full feedings, growth and incidence of complications between infants who underwent RGR (routine evaluation of GR) evaluation versus those who did not. Sixty-one premature infants were randomized to one of two groups. Group 1 received RGR evaluation prior to feeds and Group 2 did not. There was no difference in amount of feeding at 2 (P=0.66) or 3 (P=0.41) weeks of age, growth, days on parenteral nutrition or complications. Although not statistically significant, infants without RGR evaluation reached feeds of 150 ml kg−1 per day 6 days earlier and had 6 fewer days with central venous access. Results suggest RGR evaluation may not improve nutritional outcomes in premature infants.
On the gains to acquiring capital-stock savings and loan associations in merger conversions: a re-examination of the regulatory-approval hypothesis

Abstract This paper examines the regulatory-approval effect for bidding firms in mutual savings and loan association (MS&L) merger conversions. In a MS&L merger conversion, a mutually-owned thrift converts to stock form of ownership and is simultaneously acquired by an existing or newly formed capital-stock savings and loan. Because the regulatory environment in which capital stock savings and loan associations may acquire MS&Ls introduces uncertainty, it is expected that the abnormal returns surrounding the Office of Thrift Supervision (formerly the Federal Home Loan Bank Board) approval will be positive and significant. This paper finds that the two-day announcement period excess return is negative but not statistically different from zero.
Tree-based, Two-stage Risk Factor Analysis for Spontaneous Abortion

The authors utilize an analytic strategy that combines tree-based analyses with the method of Mantel-Haenszel to evaluate the association of 11 putative risk factors to spontaneous abortion by controlling for 19 potential confounders. Logistic regression is also used for comparison. The data for this study were collected in southern Connecticut, during 1988-1991. The putative risk factors are employment ; standing, walking, or sitting more than 2 hours at work ; exposure to vibration at work ; commuting to work ; reaching over the shoulders at work ; carrying loads over 9 kg on the job ; drinking alcohol or coffee in the first month of pregnancy ; and gynecologic problems before pregnancy. The potential confounding factors are maternal age, marriage status, race, years of education, mother's height, use of birth control, number of pregnancies, smoking before pregnancy, years of smoking, whether the mother stopped smoking, smoking marijuana, passive exposure to marijuana, chronic problems, infertility, cocaine use, and history of negative pregnancy outcomes. This analysis indicates that carrying loads over 9 kg on the job at least once a day increases the risk of spontaneous abortion by 70% (relative risk (RR) = 1.71, 95% CI 1.25-2.32). Drinking three or more cups of coffee daily in the first month of pregnancy also elevates the risk of spontaneous abortion (RR = 2.34, 95% Cl 1.45-3.77). Reaching over the shoulders at least once daily has a marginally significant impact on spontaneous abortion (RR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.02-1.78). The authors conclude that this analytic strategy offers an efficient approach to the exploration of new risk factors for a disease where many potential confounders already exist.
Analysis of emergent fault element behavior in Virtual California

The Virtual California simulation tool can be used to study fault and stress interaction scenarios for realistic California earthquakes and produces a large data set, which is ideally suited for statistical analysis. As with any complex system, it can produce emergent phenomena unexpected by its designers; these can be studied in order to gain insight into real world geophysical phenomena. We have developed a statistical method to analyze Virtual California data that enables us to determine the correlation relationships between the simulated fault elements. We present the results of this analysis of 40 000 years of data for 59 faults (639 elements). We focus on five specific cases that display noteworthy behavior that includes long-range fault interactions, activation–quiescence, and complex small-scale interactions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulation of TLR2 Expression and Function in Human Airway Epithelial Cells

Toll-like receptor (TLR1–6) mRNAs are expressed in normal human bronchial epithelial cells with higher basal levels of TLR3. TLR2 mRNA and plasma membrane protein expression was enhanced by pretreatment with Poly IC, a synthetic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) known to activate TLR3. Poly IC also enhanced mRNA expression of adaptor molecules (MyD88 and TIRAP) and coreceptors (Dectin-1 and CD14) involved in TLR2 signaling. Additionally, mRNA expression of TLR3 and dsRNA-sensing proteins MDA5 and RIG-I increased following Poly IC treatment. In contrast, basal mRNA expression of TLR5 and TLR2 coreceptor CD36 was reduced by 77% and 62%, respectively. ELISA of apical and basolateral solutions from Poly IC-stimulated monolayers revealed significantly higher levels of IL-6 and GM-CSF compared with the TLR2 ligand PAM3CSK4. Pretreatment with anti-TLR2 blocking antibody inhibited the PAM3CSK4-induced increase in IL-6 secretion after Poly IC exposure. An increase in IL-6 secretion was also observed in cells stimulated with Alternaria extract after pretreatment with Poly IC. However, IL-6 secretion was not stimulated by zymosan or lipothechoic acid (LTA). These data demonstrated that upregulation of TLR2 following exposure to dsRNA enhances functional responses of the airway epithelium to certain (PAM3CSK4), but not all (zymosan, LTA) TLR2 ligands and that this is likely due to differences in coreceptor expression.
High Resolution Measurement of Polarization Mode Dispersion in Discrete Telecom Devices using Quantum Interferometry

A quantum interferometric technique for measuring polarization mode dispersion (PMD) of commercial telecommunication wavelength selective switch (WSS) demonstrates advantages of quantum optical technology over conventional measurement.
The "Albatross" of Immigration Reform: Temporary Worker Policy in the United States

PIP: The author examines the history of U.S. labor and immigration policies, paying particular attention to the evolution of the temporary worker policy. Complications in the immigration reform process caused by efforts to admit more temporary workers are discussed. The position of the Reagan administration, Senate and House consideration of immigration and temporary worker bills, and the political controversies surrounding this issue are reviewed. The author points out that it was not until the major temporary worker proposals were finally removed from the Simpson-Rodino Act that passage of legislation was achieved, and he anticipates that efforts will eventually be made to revive temporary worker policy and thereby rekindle the debate
An unconventional approach to the enantioselective synthesis of caryophylloids.

The chiral enones 4 and ent-4 have been synthesized enantiomerically as configurationally stable compounds that can be used for the synthesis of caryophylloids. For instance, ent-4 has been converted to the marine natural product coraxeniolide A.
Testing tapping timesharing, II: Auditory secondary task ☆

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to extend earlier time-sharing results of Kantowitz and Knight (1974). The simultaneous performance of a paced tapping task and a digit-naming task with auditorally presented digits was required in dual-task conditions. Single-task conditions required only tapping or naming. When a verbal naming response was required (Experiment 1) additivity between tapping and naming was obtained for single- vs. dual-task comparisons and for only dual-task comparisons. When the naming response was made by moving a lever (Experiment 2) the additivity for only dual-task comparisons remained while an interaction was obtained for single- vs. dual-task comparisons. Results support a hybrid processing model with serial and parallel arrangements of stages.
CRIME AND THE POLICE A Multivariate Analysis

In an effort to assess the correlates of the variations in the rate of crime aggregated at a city level, data are analyzed using multiple correlation analysis that includes indicators of socioeconomic and social control (police) characteristics of the cities The results indicate that the rate of police and money budgeted to police contributes little to the explained variation in rates of crime. In addition, these indicators of social control variations do not correlate with variations in clearance rates The data are interpreted in terms of their implications for public policy, evaluation of police, and deterrence theory.
Multifunctionality of three-dimensional self-assembled composite structure

Microstructures with minimal-surface interfacial morphologies have been found to enhance simultaneous transport. To compare the transport properties of such systems with those formed naturally, we calculated transport properties governed by Laplace’s equation such as thermal and electrical transport for bicontinuous structures resulting from coarsening after phase separation and found them nearly as efficient as those with minimal-surface morphologies. Our finding indicates that spinodal decomposition may provide a plausible route to self-assembly of three-dimensional two-phase composites with nearly optimized multifunctionality.
Prediction of the opacity of detached plumes formed by condensation of vapors

Abstract In a smoke plume resulting from a combustion process, the opacity may increase in the region of the plume where hot stack gas is mixed with the cooler atmosphere. The increased opacity is due to aerosol formation which may result from the condensation of vapors, such as sulfuric acid, present in the stack gases. These plumes are persistent and do not disappear as rapidly as condensed water plumes. This paper presents a mathematical model of the condensation processes occurring in such plumes. After release from the stack, the plume is cooled and diluted by mixing with the ambient air. The rate of mixing depends upon the local plume and ambient properties such as velocity and temperature. A dew point may eventually be reached in the plume leading to an onset of condensation of vapors. Both heterogeneous condensation and homogeneous nucleation of vapors are considered in the model. The condensation process and plume dilution change the size distribution/concentration of aerosols in the plume and thus change plume opacity. The model is dynamic in nature and follows the plume as it travels downwind. Continuous and gradual dilution of the plume is considered, and plume properties are determined as a function of time. Initially, binary condensation of sulfuric acid and water is considered because of the interest in air pollution. Vapor concentration and the presence of sub-μm particles in the plume gases are shown to have strong effect on plume opacities. Good agreement of the model has been obtained with rather sparse data that are available in the literature.
The Impact of Volunteer Corn on Crop Yields and Insect Resistance Management Strategies

Volunteer corn (VC) has reemerged as a problematic weed in corn/soybean rotational cropping systems. This reemergence and increasing prevalence of volunteer corn has been correlated to an increased adoption of herbicide-resistant (HR) corn hybrids and the adoption of conservation tillage. Since the introduction of HR crops, control options, weed/crop competition, and other concerns (i.e., insect resistance management of Bt traits) have increased the amount of attention that volunteer corn is receiving. The objective of this review is to discuss what is known about VC prior to and after the introduction of HR crops, and to discuss new information about this important weed.
The Need for Research and Publishing on the Hispanic Caribbean

Examine la production de publications en bibliotheconomie et sciences de l'information dans la region hispanique des Caraibes. Accentue l'importance de la recherche et de la publication pour les professionnels de bibliotheque et suggere les ressources de reference potentiellement necessaires dans cette zone. Examine les lieux ou publier, mais aussi les strategies et les opportunites pour conduire la recherche. Les organisations bibliothecaires doivent jouer un role plus agressif afin de publier ou de sponsoriser la publication pertinente pour les bibliotheques et les bibliothecaires de la region hispanique des Caraibes.
An exploratory analysis of sex differences in gossip

This study examined sex differences in the quantity, targets, tone, and topics of gossip in the conversations of 76 male and 120 female college students. Contrary to popular beliefs, results indicated that the gossip of men and women contained similarities as well as differences. The data revealed that women spent more time gossiping than men and that women were much more likely than men to gossip about close friends and family members. However, no significant sex differences were uncovered regarding the derogatory tone of gossip and men and women were found to gossip about many of the same topics.
A nicotinic acetylcholine receptor regulating cell adhesion and motility is expressed in human keratinocytes.

Acetylcholine is synthesized and released by human epidermal keratinocytes and modulates the adhesion and motility of these cells, To understand the molecular basis of the effects of acetylcholine on keratinocytes, we investigated the presence, pharmacology, structure, and function of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in human epidermal keratinocytes. Patch-clamp studies indicated that keratinocytes express acetylcholine receptors with ion gating and pharmacologic properties similar to those observed so far only in neurons, and containing the α 3 subunit. Specific binding of the receptor-specific ligand 125 I-κ-bungarotoxin revealed approximately 5500 binding sites per cell on undifferentiated keratinocytes in cell cultures and approximately 35,400 binding sites per cell on mature keratinocytes freshly isolated from human neonatal foreskins, Antibody binding and polymerase chain reaction experiments demonstrated the presence of α 3 , β 2 , and β 4 nicotinic receptor subunits. Binding of subunit-specific antibodies indicated that nicotinic receptors were associated with the suprabasal keratinocytes in epidermis and localized to the cell membranes of differentiated keratinocytes in cell cultures. Acetylcholine and the nicotinic agonist nicotine increased cell-substrate and cell-cell adherence of cultured keratinocytes and stimulated their lateral migration. The specific antagonists κ-bungarotoxin and mecamylamine caused cell detachment and abolished migration. Thus, a nicotinic receptor expressed in keratinocytes may mediate acetylcholine control of keratinocyte adhesion and motility.
An epidemiologic approach to the study of retinopathy: the Pittsburgh diabetic morbidity and retinopathy studies.

Summary Diabetic retinopathy was studied in two cohorts of insulin-dependent diabetics (IDDs) from the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. The first cohort ( n = 696) consisted of IDDs of long duration. Severe retinopathy was self-reported in 70% of this cohort by 30 years duration of diabetes. Associations between severe retinopathy, hypertension and smoking were observed. In order to examine the relationship between metabolic control and early diabetic retinopathy, a second cohort of adolescent IDDs ( n = 58) were referred for standardized fluorescein angiography. Sixty-four percent had early retinopathy. None had proliferative changes. Significant differences in individual mean whole blood glycosylated hemoglobin (GHb), averaged over 3 years before angiography, were consistently seen between those with and without early retinopathy. Also, the number of microaneurysms was positively correlated with individual mean GHb. Before the advent of GHb testing, those IDDs who later had retinopathy were more likely to have experienced at least one hospitalization for diabetic ketoacidosis. These observations provide strong support that poor metabolic control preceded the development of diabetic retinopathy. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that improvement of metabolic control early in the course of IDDM may prevent or delay the development of the early changes of diabetic retinopathy.
INACTIVATION OF E. COLI PYRUVATE FORMATE-LYASE: ROLE OF AdhE AND SMALL MOLECULES

Escherichia coli AdhE has been reported to harbor three distinct enzymatic activities: alcohol dehydrogenase, acetaldehyde-CoA dehydrogenase, and pyruvate formate-lyase (PFL) deactivase. Herein we report on the cloning, expression, and purification of E. coli AdhE, and the re-investigation of its purported enzymatic activities. While both the alcohol dehydrogenase and acetaldehyde-CoA dehydrogenase activities were readily detectable, we were unable to obtain any evidence for catalytic deactivation of PFL by AdhE, regardless of whether the reported cofactors for deactivation (Fe(II), NAD, and CoA) were present. Our results demonstrate that AdhE is not a PFL deactivating enzyme. We have also examined the potential for deactivation of active PFL by small-molecule thiols. Both β-mercaptoethanol and dithiothreitol deactivate PFL efficiently, with the former providing quite rapid deactivation. PFL deactivated by these thiols can be reactivated, suggesting that this deactivation is non-destructive transfer of an H atom equivalent to quench the glycyl radical.
Multiple instance learning framework for landmine detection using ground-penetrating radar

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) data provides a powerful technique to identify subsurface buried threats. Although GPR data contains a three-dimensional representation of the subsurface, object truth (i.e. labels and positions of true threat objects in training lanes) is often provided in only two dimensions (GPS coordinates along the earth's surface). To mitigate uncertainty in an object's location in depth, many successful feature extraction/ object recognition techniques in GPR extract feature vectors from several depth regions, and attempt to combine information across these feature vectors to make final decisions. However, many machine learning techniques are not well suited for learning under these conditions. Multiple Instance Learning (MIL) is a type of supervised learning method in which labels are available for sets of samples, but not for individual samples. The goal of learning in MIL is to classify new sets of samples as they become available. This set-based framework is useful in processing GPR responses since features are often extracted independently from multiple un-labeled depth bins, and thus a set of features is produced at each potential threat location. In this work, a comparison of several previous approaches to MlL applied to landmine detection in GPR data is presented. One recent algorithm, the p-Posterior Mixture Model approach (pPMM) is given special attention, and several slight modifications to the pPMM approach are presented and compared.
The role of sales of new motorcycles in a recent increase in motorcycle mortality rates.

Abstract Introduction The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that mortality rates from crashes among motorcycle riders in the United States increased from 21.0 per 100 million motorcycle miles traveled in 1997 to 38.4 per 100 million motorcycle miles traveled in 2003. At the same time, annual domestic sales of new, on-road motorcycles increased from 247,000 in 1997 to 648,000 in 2003. Method This study used data from the NHTSA Fatality Analysis Reporting System and annual sales figures for on-road motorcycles to determine if newer motorcycles were more likely to be involved in fatal crashes and if fatal crashes involving newer motorcycles could account for the mortality increase after 1997. Results Mortality rates were 7.9, 8.1, 5.4, and 2.9 per 10,000 motorcycles sold for motorcycles Conclusions Two possible explanations for the association between high sales volumes and mortality rates are: (a) increased exposure from more extensive use of motorcycles when they are new; and (b) inexperience with motorcycle riding or with specific motorcycles. Impact on industry This study suggests that the deaths of growing numbers of motorcyclists are a consequence of the financial success of the motorcycle industry.
EGF-conjugated Near-infrared quantum dots as nanoprobes for in-vivo imaging of EGFR expression

Noninvasive imaging of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) expression can provide valuable molecular information that could aid diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, particularly with targeted cancer therapies utilizing anti-EGFR antibodies. In this study we report on the development and validation of a nanoprobe for in-vivo imaging and discrimination of EGFR-overexpressing tumors from surrounding normal tissues that also expresses EGFR. Near-infrared quantum dots (QDs) were coupled to EGF using thiol-maleimide conjugation to create EGF-QD nanoprobes. These nanoprobes demonstrated excellent in-vitro and in-vivo binding affinity. In-vivo imaging demonstrated three distinct phases of tumor influx (~3min), clearance (~60min) and accumulation (1-6hrs) of EGF-QD nanoprobes. Both QD and EGF-QD demonstrated non-specific rapid tumor influx and clearance followed by an apparent dynamic equilibrium at ~60min. Subsequently (1-6hrs), while QD concentration gradually decreased in tumors, EGF-QDs progressively accumulated in tumors. At 24hrs, tumor fluorescence decreased to near baseline levels for both QD and EGF-QD. Ex vivo whole-organ, tissue-homogenate fluorescence, confocal microscopy and immunofluorescence staining confirmed tumor-specific accumulation of EGF-QD nanoprobes at an early time-point (4hrs). The favorable pharmacokinetics, the ability to discriminate EGFR-overexpressing tumors from surrounding normal tissues using low concentration (10-pmol) of EGF-QD nanoprobe underscores the clinical relevance of this probe to evaluate therapeutic intervention.
Modern Data Analytic Techniques for Multisource Feedback

For nearly three decades, the use of multisource ratings of organizational phenomena for developmental feedback to managers has grown. As work on multisource feedback moved from the practitioner to academic realms, scholars have sought to advance theoretical and methodological understanding of multisource ratings. The intent of this feature topic is to develop the use of rigorous analytic methods for the evaluation of the construct validity and psychometric properties of multisource ratings and feedback. In this introductory article, an overview of the four articles and techniques that comprise this feature topic are presented. Common themes and issues of the analytic methods, another technique for the analysis of multisource data, Within and Between Analysis, and directions for future research also are highlighted.