cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Vanishing Point Appears

THE SHARPEST critique of Wynne-Edwards came from George C. Williams, in his 1966 book Adaptation and Natural Selection: A Critique of Some Current Evolutionary Thought. Williams was driven by a distaste for multi-level evolutionary thought that went back to his early years teaching at the University of Chicago in the mid-1950s. The triggering event may have been a lecture by A. E. Emerson, a renowned ecologist and termite specialist. The lecture dealt with what Emerson termed beneficial death, an idea that included August Weismann’s theory that senescence was evolved to cull the old and impaired from populations so that fitter youthful individuals could take their place. My reaction was that if Emerson’s presentation was acceptable biology, I would prefer another calling. (quoted by Borello 2010, p. 107) Likewise, Williams’s tone in a letter to David Lack indicates that he considered the idea of group selection rather ridiculous. You probably had some trouble with the wording of your discussion of Wynne-Edwards. The subject requires great care to avoid the appearance of sarcasm or ridicule. I know that when I got to that part about the epideictic function of the vertical movement of plankton [Wynne-Edwards’s Chapter 16] I suddenly wondered if I had fallen for a really elaborate joke.” (quoted by Borello 2010, p. 111) Williams insisted that adaptations should be attributed to no higher a level of organization than is demanded by the evidence. In explaining adaptation, one should assume the adequacy of the simplest form of natural selection, that of alternative alleles in Mendelian populations, unless the evidence clearly shows that this theory does not suffice. (Williams 1966, pp. 4–5) Conflating the principle of parsimony with the a focus on the small, Williams continued his argument in the following terms: Various levels of adaptive organization, from the subcellular to the biospheric, might conceivably be recognized, but the principle of parsimony demands that we recognize adaptation at the level necessitated by the facts and no higher. It is my position that adaptation need almost never be recognized at any level above that of a pair of parents and associated offspring. (Williams 1966, p. 19)
A family of iterative quadratic optimization algorithms for pairs of inequalities, with application in diagnostic radiology

We are concerned with systems of pairs of inequalities of the form γ≤(α, y)≤δ, where the dimensionality of the unknown vector y is typically 103 to 105. Such systems arise in certain problems in diagnostic radiology. We present and prove the convergence of a family of iterative algorithms for finding the feasible y with minimum norm. The algorithms are based on Hildreth’s quadratic optimization procedure for inequality constraints, but they exploit the special form of the feasible region to reduce significantly both computer time and storage.
Characterizing the pulse velocity and electrical resistivity changes in concrete with piezoresisitive smart cement binder using Vipulanandan models

Abstract In this study the behavior of concrete made using piezoresisitive smart cement as the binder was investigated to test and model the concrete as a bulk sensing material. The coarse aggregate content in the concrete was varied up to 75% (by volume). The concrete property changes during curing were tested using the ultrasonic pulse velocity and compared it to the electrical resistivity, since it can be easily adopted for real-time monitoring. The initial (immediately after mixing) compressive pulse velocity for the piezoresistive smart cement (binder only) was 1050 m/s and it increased to 1490 m/s with the addition of 75%, a 42% increase in the initial pulse velocity. After 28 days of curing, the pulse velocity of smart cement increased from 3520 m/s to 4750 m/s with the addition of 75% aggregate, a 35% increase in the pulse velocity. Also the addition of coarse aggregates increased the initial electrical resistivity of the smart cement composite as well as the long term electrical resistivity. The initial electrical resistivity of smart cement was 1.02 Ω·m which increased nonlinearly to 3.74 Ω·m. with the addition of 75% aggregate, a 267% increase in the initial electrical resistivity. After 28 days of curing, the electrical resistivity of smart cement was 14.14 Ω·m and with 75% aggregate it increased to 61.24 Ω·m, a 333% increase in the electrical resistivity. Applicability of the mixture theory to predict the resistivity of the concrete from the constituents was verified and a new composite resistivity model was developed. Also Vipulanandan p-q curing model was used to predict the resistivity changes in the concrete with the curing time. The piezoresistivity of the smart cement without and with 75% aggregate after 28 days of curing were 204% and 101% at the peak compressive stresses of 21.7 MPa and 12.4 MPa respectively. The reduction in the piezoresistivity at peak compressive stress was due to not only the reduction of smart cement content in the composite but also the strength. Compared to the compressive failure strain of 0.3%, the resistivity change for the concrete with 75% gravel after 28 days of curing was over 336 times (33,600%) higher making the concrete with the smart cement binder a highly sensing bulk material. The composite behaviors (with curing time and applied stress) were modeled using the Vipulanandan pulse velocity, concrete resistivity and piezoresistivity models and compared with the current models used in the literature. Based on the coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE), Vipulanandan models predicted the experimental results very well.
The influence of socioeconomic factors on technological change: the case of high-tech states in the U. S.

This paper examines the technological level of 74 counties in technologically advanced states in the United States at the end of the 1990s. The conceptual framework is that selected socioeconomic dimensions influence the level of technological development for advanced communities; i.e., technology does not develop by itself but in concert with pre-disposing characteristics of the environment. The influence of socioeconomic factors was studied through correlation and regression analysis. The findings reveal that, on a national basis, factors that are important across several technology sectors are college education, ethnicity, income, and federal grant funds. There are distinctive influences for high-tech counties in the "rust belt" versus the "sunbelt." Taken together, the results highlight the association of socioeconomic factors with the per capita magnitude of the technology sectors. The findings are discussed relative to research literature and data collected, and policy and ethical implications are presented.
Psychosocial Impact of Long-Term Growth Hormone Therapy

Human growth hormone has been administered to children of short stature for over two decades. Some research has focused on aspects of the patients while they were involved in the treatment program, but remarkably little information is available concerning the longer-range impact of the treatment on the patients. This study was designed to assess important areas of the patients’ lives as adults, and to use this information in helping physicians be aware of long-term effects of this treatment program.
Declarative rules for inferring fine-grained data provenance from scientific workflow execution traces

Fine-grained dependencies within scientific workflow provenance specify lineage relationships between a workflow result and the input data, intermediate data, and computation steps used in the result's derivation. This information is often needed to determine the quality and validity of scientific data, and as such, plays a key role in both provenance standardization efforts and provenance query frameworks. While most scientific workflow systems can record basic information concerning the execution of a workflow, they typically fall into one of three categories with respect to recording dependencies: (1) they rely on workflow computation steps to declare dependency relationships at runtime; (2) they impose implicit assumptions concerning dependency patterns from which dependencies are automatically inferred; or (3) they do not assert any dependency information at all. We present an alternative approach that decouples dependency inference from workflow systems and underlying execution traces. In particular, we present a high-level declarative language for expressing explicit dependency rules that can be applied (at any time) to workflow trace events to generate fine-grained dependency information. This approach not only makes provenance dependency rules explicit, but allows rules to be specified and refined by different users as needed. We present our dependency rule language and implementation that rewrites dependency rules into relational queries over underlying workflow traces. We also demonstrate the language using common types of dependency patterns found within scientific workflows.
Conclusions and Hypotheses

We began this book with the intention of presenting a picture of the advances in the study of procedural justice that have occurred in the decade since Thibaut and Walker published their book on the topic. We have considered the work that Thibaut and Walker themselves drew upon, as well as more recent studies on the perceived fairness of legal, political, and organizational procedures. We will now move back from the trees, as it were, and contemplate the forest. In this chapter we consider two questions. First, what conclusions can we reach on the basis of the whole body of procedural justice research? And second, what hypotheses can we advance about topics or phenomena as yet unstudied?
Computational Analysis of Leukemia Microarray Expression Data Using the GA/KNN Method

We recently developed a multivariate method that selects a subset of discriminative genes for sample classification based on gene expression data. The method combines a search tool, a genetic algorithm (GA), and a non-parametric pattern recognition method, based on the k-nearest nearest neighbors (KNN) approach. We begin by selecting many subsets of genes that can discriminate among classes of samples using a training set. Subsequently, the genes are ranked according to the frequency of gene selection. The top-ranked genes (e.g. 50) are then used to classify test set samples. For a widely-available set of leukemia data, the top 50 genes identified by the GA/KNN method not only correctly classified 33 of the 34 test set samples, but also discovered the two distinct clinical subtypes within ALL without applying prior knowledge. The method has been successfully applied to several expression data sets. It may be used to identify a subset of informative genes (biomarkers) for sample classification for a variety of profiling studies including tumors.
Online Reverse Auctions: Challenges and Best Practices

There were several challenges in the early years of online reverse auctions, and significant learning had to occur. This chapter focuses on these challenges, and offers a range of best practices in order to manage them. Specific aspects emphasized include the importance of having the right bid package, the importance of preparation, the importance of education and training, and the move of companies toward self-proficiency; tied to this was also the role played by the online auction provider and how they changed over the years in terms of their value-added services—the evolution of their business model will be reviewed. The chapter also introduces a set of common myths that were circulated in the early years, coupled with advice on how to not fall victim to them. Lastly, an illustrative example of a successful online reverse auction implementation is provided.
Sleep problems in adolescence are prospectively linked to later depressive symptoms via the cortisol awakening response

Sleep disturbance is a symptom of and a well-known risk factor for depression. Further, atypical functioning of the HPA axis has been linked to the pathogenesis of depression. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of adolescent HPA axis functioning in the link between adolescent sleep problems and later depressive symptoms. Methods: A sample of 157 17-18 year old adolescents (61.8% female) completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory (PSQI) and provided salivary cortisol samples throughout the day for three consecutive days. Two years later, adolescents reported their depressive symptoms via the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Results: Individuals (age 17-18) with greater sleep disturbance reported greater depressive symptoms two years later (age 19-20). This association occurred through the indirect effect of sleep disturbance on the cortisol awakening response (CAR) (indirect effect = 0.14, 95%CI [.02 -.39]). Conclusions: One pathway through which sleep problems may lead to depressive symptoms is by up-regulating components of the body's physiological stress response system that can be measured through the cortisol awakening response. Behavioral interventions that target sleep disturbance in adolescents may mitigate this neurobiological pathway to depression during this high-risk developmental phase.
Twenty-First-Century North Africa: Nationalism, Globalization, and the Struggle for Tamazight Language

Sociolinguists and academics have recognized the centrality of ideology as one of the hidden agendas of language policies that aim at selecting one dominant language over others in multilingual societies. Looking principally at the post-independence era in North Africa, this chapter discusses the evolution of the sociolinguistic situation of Morocco from the nationalist ideology to the era of twenty-first-century global phenomenon. While the chapter focuses mainly on Morocco, its insights are relevant to the countries of the Maghreb in general because of their common use of French and their similar language planning policies. The chapter provides a working definition of the concept of globalization and discusses the emergence of the signs of globalization and its impact on Morocco’s multicultural and multilingual landscape.
Phase 2 study of the CDK4 inhibitor abemaciclib in dedifferentiated liposarcoma.

11004Background: The oncogene cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) is amplified in > 90% of de-differentiated liposarcomas (DDLS). We previously demonstrated that treatment with the CDK4 inhibitor palb...
Overbasalization: Addressing Hesitancy in Treatment Intensification Beyond Basal Insulin

The proportion of patients with type 2 diabetes achieving recommended treatment goals remains suboptimal despite advances in diabetes care (1). Only 30% of patients with type 2 diabetes who use basal insulin achieve an A1C <7%, with the probability of doing so diminishing greatly if not achieved within 1 year of insulin initiation (2–6). Factors underlying these delays are complex and may involve therapeutic inertia, which is defined as failure to intensify or deintensify therapy when appropriate (7). The clinical course of type 2 diabetes is characterized by a progressive decline in β-cell mass and function, as well as insulin resistance (8). Early in the course of the disease, the addition of basal insulin addresses decreasing β-cell function and is an efficient step in controlling fasting blood glucose but has little effect on controlling postprandial blood glucose (9). In patients with type 2 diabetes and elevated A1C, the relative contribution of fasting hyperglycemia is dominant with higher A1C, and postprandial hyperglycemia is a larger contributor when A1C is closer to 7% (10). Thus, titration of basal insulin when A1C is close to 7% will have minimal effect on postprandial hyperglycemia or on attainment of the A1C goal (11). Basal insulin is not designed to address postprandial hyperglycemia; its role is mainly to suppress hepatic glucose production, address insulin resistance, and correct fasting hyperglycemia. In theory, the ideal basal insulin dose should allow a patient with type 2 diabetes to fast for 24 hours without hypoglycemia. Once basal insulin has been initiated, appropriate titration is necessary to avoid “overbasalization,” or titration of basal insulin beyond an appropriate dose in an attempt to achieve glycemic targets. Several evidence-based titration algorithms exist (12–14); however, no particular algorithm has been shown to provide superior clinical benefit over others (15 …
Predicting Concussion Outcome by Integrating Finite Element Modeling and Network Analysis.

Concussion is a significant public health problem affecting 1.6 to 2.4 million Americans annually. An alternative to reducing the burden of concussion is to reduce its incidence with improved protective equipment and injury mitigation systems. Finite element (FE) models of the brain response to blunt trauma are often used to estimate injury potential and can lead to improved helmet designs. However, these models have yet to incorporate how the patterns of brain connectivity disruption after impact affects the relay of information in the injured brain. Furthermore, FE brain models typically do not consider the differences in individual brain structural connectivities and their purported role in concussion risk. Here, we use graph theory techniques to integrate brain deformations predicted from FE modeling with measurements of network efficiency to identify brain regions whose connectivity characteristics may influence concussion risk. We computed maximum principal strain in 129 brain regions using head kinematics measured from 53 professional football impact reconstructions that included concussive and non-concussive cases. In parallel, using diffusion spectrum imaging data from 30 healthy subjects, we simulated structural lesioning of each of the same 129 brain regions. We simulated lesioning by removing each region one at a time along with all its connections. In turn, we computed the resultant change in global efficiency to identify regions important for network communication. We found that brain regions that deformed the most during an impact did not overlap with regions most important for network communication (Pearson’s correlation, $\rho$ = 0.07; p = 0.45). Despite this dissimilarity, we found that predicting concussion incidence was equally accurate when considering either areas of high strain or of high importance to global efficiency. Interestingly, accuracy for concussion prediction varied considerably across the 30 healthy connectomes. These results suggest that individual network structure is an important confounding variable in concussion prediction and that further investigation of its role may improve concussion prediction and lead to the development of more effective protective equipment.
Cognitive Phenotype and Differential Gene Expression in a Hippocampal Homologue in Two Species of Frog.

The complexity of an animal's interaction with its physical and/or social environment is thought to be associated with behavioral flexibility and cognitive phenotype, though we know little about this relationship in amphibians. We examined differences in cognitive phenotype in two species of frog with divergent natural histories. The green-and-black poison frog (Dendrobates auratus) is diurnal, displays enduring social interactions, and uses spatially distributed resources during parental care. Tungara frogs (Physalaemus=Engystomops pustulosus) are nocturnal, express only fleeting social interactions, and use ephemeral puddles to breed in a lek-type mating system. Comparing performance in identical discrimination tasks, we find that D. auratus made fewer errors when learning and displayed greater behavioral flexibility in reversal learning tasks than tungara frogs. Further, tungara frogs preferred to learn beacons that can be used in direct guidance whereas D. auratus preferred position cues that could be used to spatially orient relative to the goal. Behavioral flexibility and spatial cognition are associated with hippocampal function in mammals. Accordingly, we examined differential gene expression in the medial pallium, the amphibian homolog of the hippocampus. Our preliminary data indicate that genes related to learning and memory, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis were upregulated in D. auratus, while genes related to apoptosis were upregulated in tungara frogs, suggesting that these cellular processes could contribute to the differences in behavioral flexibility and spatial learning we observed between poison frogs and tungara frogs.
Exploratory analysis to enhance operational efficiency of new patient screenings.

Objective The aims of this study were to 1) evaluate patient demographic data for new patient exams (NPE) and 2) analyze lead response time for checked-in and no-show appointments in predoctoral clinics in a dental school. Methods The data for the study were collected from the predoctoral clinics at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) for patients with NPE appointments with American Dental Association's (ADA) diagnostic code of D100. A total of 26,826 appointments and 24,419 unique patients were reviewed from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019. Patient demographic variables such as age, gender, zip codes, and lead response time were analyzed. Results From 26,826 total number of appointments, 10,454 appointments were categorized as no-show appointments (38.97%). In the no-show appointments, the sex distribution was 59.93% female and 40.07% male, and in checked-in category, the sex distribution was 53.75% female and 46.25% male. As the lead response time increased over 5 days, the no-show rate increased to 49.79%. Approximately 55% of the entire NPE was from Greater Boston area. Conclusion The association between lead time and no-show rate was shown that when lead time was reduced, no-show rate decreased. By identifying the no-show appointments and lead time, schools and clinics can improve operational efficiency, reduce financial loss, and maintain continuation of care by supporting patients who need access to care and creating secondary automated recall system to maximize communication and chair use.
Echo intensity as an indicator of skeletal muscle quality: applications, methodology, and future directions.

This narrative review provides an overview of the current knowledge of B-mode ultrasound-derived echo intensity (EI) as an indicator of skeletal muscle quality. PubMed and Google Scholar were used to search the literature. Advanced search functions were used to find original studies with the terms ‘echo intensity’ and/or ‘muscle quality’ in the title and/or abstract. Publications that conceptually described muscle quality but did not include measurement of EI were not a focus of the review. Importantly, the foundational premise of EI remains unclear. While it is likely that EI reflects intramuscular adiposity, data suggesting that these measurements are influenced by fibrous tissue is limited to diseased muscle and animal models. EI appears to show particular promise in studying muscular aging. Studies have consistently reported an association between EI and muscle function, though not all chronic interventions have demonstrated improvements. Based on the existing literature, it is unclear if EI can be used as a marker of muscle glycogen following exercise and nutritional interventions, or if EI is influenced by hydration status. Inconsistent methodological approaches used across laboratories have made comparing EI studies challenging. Image depth, rest duration, participant positioning, probe tilt, and the decision to correct for subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness are all critical considerations when interpreting the literature and planning studies. While some areas show conflicting evidence, EI shows promise as a novel tool for studying muscle quality. Collaborative efforts focused on methodology are necessary to enhance the consistency and quality of the EI literature.
Performance After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in National Basketball Association Players.

Background:Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in National Basketball Association (NBA) players can have a significant impact on player longevity and performance. Current literature reports a h...
Neonatal Nurses' Report of Family-Centered Care Resources and Practices.

BACKGROUND A paucity of studies describes the prevalence of family-centered care (FCC) practices and resources in US neonatal units. PURPOSE To identify US prevalence of FCC practices and resources and to identify the largest gaps in resource provision. METHODS Neonatal nurses completed an online survey through national conferences (eg, NANN educational conference), neonatal organization Web sites (eg, NANN research survey), and social media (eg, NANN and NPA Facebook). Nurses provided demographics and the National Perinatal Association Self-Assessment on Comprehensive Family Support, a 61-item checklist of FCC practices and resources from 6 categories: family-centered developmental care, staff education/support, peer support, palliative care, discharge education, and mental health support. RESULTS Nurses (n = 103) reported lowest resources for Peer Support and Mental Health Support. About a third had a neonatal intensive care unit parent advisory committee (n = 39; 37.9%). Only 43.7% (n = 45) had necessary amenities for families to stay with their infants. Less than a third felt that mental health professionals were adequately staffed to provide counseling to parents (n = 28; 27.5%). Very few nurses had adequate training on providing parents psychological support (n = 16; 15.8%). More than half (n = 58; 56.3%) stated that all staff receive training in family-centered developmental care. Finally, less than half (n = 42; 40.8%) stated that staff see parents as equal members of the care team. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE We demonstrate a consistent and widespread lack of training provided to neonatal staff in nearly every aspect of comprehensive FCC support. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH Researchers need to identify unit/organizational interventions that increase adoption and implementation of FCC practices and resources.
Pif97, a von Willebrand and Peritrophin Biomineralization Protein, Organizes Mineral Nanoparticles and Creates Intracrystalline Nanochambers.

The formation of the mollusk nacre layer involves the assembly and organization of mineral nanoparticles into fracture-toughened mesoscale-sized aragonite tablets that possess intracrystalline nanoporosities. At least one nacre protein family, known as the framework proteome, is strategically located as part of a macromolecular coating around each nacre tablet and is believed to participate in tablet formation. Here, we report new studies of a recombinant form (rPif97) of a unique Japanese pearl oyster (Pinctada fucata) nacre framework biomineralization protein, Pif97. This unique protein possesses both a von Willlebrand factor type A domain (vWA, F23–Y161) and a Peritrophin A chitin-binding domain (PAC, E234–D298). rPif97 self-associates or aggregates to form amorphous protein phases that organize both amorphous and single-crystal calcium carbonate nanoparticles in vitro. Further, in the presence of nucleating calcite crystals, rPif97 protein phases deposit onto these crystals and become occluded over ti...
Perceived risk and condom use among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa: a latent class analysis

While studies have examined factors associated with condom use behaviors, few have assessed risk perception and condom use among SSA adolescents. This work sought to fill this gap. Data for this study are derived from the National Survey of Adolescents (2004-2005), a survey of 12-19 year olds in Burkina Faso, Ghana, Malawi, and Uganda. Latent class analysis was conducted. Two risk profiles emerged in the data. Percent of adolescents in the high perceived risk sub-groups ranged from 49.6% - 90.8% and moderate risk from 29.1-83.8%. Those in the high perceived risk class were 2.26 to 5.10 times more likely to report condom use. The findings provide additional information about the factors that influence condom use among adolescents in these four countries. Because an individual’s development is influenced by his/her settings and systems, expanded views of behavior must be included in prevention efforts. (Afr J Reprod Health 2014; 18[4]: 26-33).
Increasing Platelet Concentration in Platelet-Rich Plasma Inhibits Anterior Cruciate Ligament Cell Function in Three-Dimensional Culture

Tissue engineering is one new strategy being developed to treat ACL ruptures. One such approach is bio-enhanced ACL repair, where a suture repair is supplemented with a bio-active scaffold containing platelets. However, the optimal concentration of platelets to stimulate ACL healing is not known. We hypothesized that increasing platelet concentrations in the scaffold would enhance critical cell behaviors. Porcine ACL fibroblasts were obtained from explant culture and suspended in platelet poor plasma (PPP), 1× platelet-rich plasma (PRP), 3× PRP, 5× PRP, or phosphate buffered saline (PBS). The cell suspensions were cultured in a 3D collagen scaffold. Cellular metabolism (MTT assay), apoptosis (TUNEL assay), and gene expression for type I and type III collagen were measured. 1× PRP significantly outperformed 5× PRP in all parameters studied: Type I and III collagen gene expression, apoptosis prevention, and cell metabolism stimulation. ACL fibroblasts cultured with 1× PRP had the highest type I and type III collagen gene expression. 1× PRP and PPP groups had the highest cell metabolism and lowest apoptosis rates. Concentration of platelets had significant effects on the behavior of ACL fibroblasts; thus, it is an important parameter that should be specified in clinical or basic science studies.
Study quality in quantitative l2 research (1990-2010): A methodological synthesis and call for reform

This article builds on the growing line of inquiry into methodological practices in quantitative second language (L2) research. Specifically, the study uses synthetic techniques to examine changes over time in research and reporting practices. 606 primary reports of quantitative L2 research from two journals- Language Learning and Studies in Second Language Acquisition-were surveyed on different design features, statistical analyses, and data reporting practices. Frequencies and percentages of each feature were then calculated and compared across the 1990s and the first decade of the 2000s to examine changes taking place in the field. The results, while not necessarily representative of all substantive and methodological approaches within the domain of L2 research, indicate numerous changes including increases in sample sizes, delayed posttesting, and the availability of critical data such as effect sizes, reliability estimates, and standard deviations to accompany means. With respect to statistical procedures, the range of analyses has not changed, and the field continues its unfortunate reliance on statistical significance. The findings are grouped according to three themes, which are discussed in light of previous reviews in this and other fields: (a) means-based analyses, (b) missing data, null hypothesis significance testing, and the 'power problem,' and (c) design preferences. The article concludes with an extended call for reform targeting six groups of stakeholders in the field. Most notably, an argument is made for field-specific methodological standards and enhancements to graduate curricula and training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Key management engine techniques for sensitive or classified equipment initialization

The technology exists to reduce the threats to sensitive keying materials by maintaining those materials in an unclassified format until they are actually inserted in the target equipment. This reduces the HUMINT threats and overcomes some of those shortcomings discovered during various operations where multi-service task forces have entered action without common cryptographic keying materials. The Tactical Net Server (TNS) can provide the ability to integrate a completely cold and disjointed start to a fully secured and interoperable task force. >
Fission yeast myosin-II isoforms assemble into contractile rings at distinct times during mitosis

Myosin-II is required for cytokinesis in Schizosaccharomyces pombe [1-3], but unlike other unicellular organisms, S. pombe has two structurally distinct myosin-IIs, Myo2p and Myp2p, which are required under different conditions [4]. Disruption of myo2(+) is lethal, whereas disruption of myp2(+) leads to defects in cytokinesis when nutrients are limiting and to cold-sensitivity in 1 M KCl. In dividing cells, both myosin-IIs localize to a ring in the center of the cell, which is thought to contract, separating the cytoplasms of the daughter cells. Using deconvolution microscopy, we obtained three-dimensional reconstructions of fission yeast cells expressing green fluorescent protein-labeled (GFP)-myosin-II, providing for the first time detailed images of GFP-myosin-II rings. By time-lapse microscopy, we observed ring assembly and contraction in three dimensions using GFP-tubulin as a cell cycle marker. We determined that the Myo2p ring forms in metaphase/anaphase A whereas the Myp2p ring forms much later, at the end of anaphase B. Myo2p initiates ring formation while Myp2p acts later to increase the efficiency of cytokinesis.
Performance of the LAMPF Particle Separator

The electrostatic beam separator in the EPICS channel at LAMPF is now nearly fully operational. Improvements to the high voltage transmission system and the electronic controls as well as a higher quality channel vacuum have allowed the unit to be operated at its design field strengths. The bias electrode has proven to be useful in reducing ion-exchange currents and associated electrode heating. The detachable shielding and other apparatus for removing the separator from the activated channel has been perfected and its application is described.
Teaching about Gender and Negotiation: Sex, Truths, and Videotape

Empirical evidence and theory frequently present conflicting observations about what, if any, role gender plays in negotiation. The author reviews the history of theory development on gender and negotiation, and suggests that the differing opinions present opportunities for a negotiation teacher. She offers a series of prescriptions on how to make the subject of gender integral to the negotiation class. Among the techniques she describes is the use of videotape to combat the “lie” that sex is necessarily a determinant of the way one views or behaves in negotiation.
Phantom sensations of internal organs

Abstract This paper reports a clinical study of two women who described having recurrent pelvic pains during the immediate postoperative period following a total hysterectomy. The cramping pains were subjectively indistinguishable in quality, intensity, duration and location from previously experienced menstrual cramps and labor pains. These postoperative cramping pains are here termed “phantom uterine contraction pains”. Reports of phantom sensations of other internal organs (bladder, rectum, stomach, genitalia) occurring after removal or denervation of the organ are reviewed. These data support the conclusion that phantom phenomena occur after interruption of sensory input from any internal organ with a mental representation. The interruption of afferent input to the brain from external organs leads to phantom organs, whereas the interruption of afferent input from internal organs does not lead to the subject's experiencing a phantom of the organ but rather leads to the experience of phantom sensations. Both clinical and experimental data support hypothesis that a necessary condition for the development of phantom phenonmena is the interruption of sensory input. The clinical data on phantom phenomena are not explained by the Freudian wish-fulfillment theory of hallucinations. Rather, these data are compatible with theories arising out of research on dreaming and sensory deprivation which say that the organism has built-in needs for sensory stimuli. It is hypothesized that the interruption of sensory input causes the central nervous system to create its own discharge of sensory centers, experienced as an hallucination.
Creating a space where teachers can locate their voices and develop their pedagogical awareness

Abstract The claim is made here that we need to prepare teachers who can locate their voices in teaching situations, recognize their relationship with other voices in those situations, and reflect on their pedagogical intentions. In a teacher education course, stories written about practicum experiences offered students an opportunity to reflect on the location of their voice in classroom situations and to discuss with peers different classroom situations and possibilities for teaching and learning. This study examines more closely the reflections of two of the students with seemingly distinct orientations to learning to teach. Their practicum stories and reflective essays were analyzed for positioning of voice as described by Belenky et al. (1986). The two students located their voices in distinct ways, and also expressed growing awareness of classroom dynamics and the value of peer dialogue in broadening and deepening their understandings of teaching and learning.
Fallout240Pu and239Pu in Atlantic marine samples

Abstract Mass spectrometric analyses of low levels of global fallout plutonium separated from Atlantic marine samples have differentiated fallout239Pu and240Pu in aquatic samples for the first time. The results show no single characteristic240Pu/239Pu ratio in marine samples; the observed range is from 0.11 to 0.24 on an atom basis. There are indications that differences exist in the chemical or physical form of plutonium from atmospheric fallout in Atlantic surface water and that selective concentration in surface organisms is occurring. No single240Pu/239Pu value is found in pelagic sediments collected from different depths and locations. Discounting sources other than fallout, our results show that the plutonium deposited at any given time since atmospheric testing began may have carried a unique240Pu/239Pu tag. This label may be extremely useful to trace fallout plutonium through biogeochemical cycles.
A dynamic fMRI study of illusory double-flash effect on human visual cortex

Functional MRI (fMRI) combined with the paired-stimuli paradigms (referred as dynamic fMRI) was used to study the “illusory double-flash” effect on brain activity in the human visual cortex. Three experiments were designed. The first two experiments aimed to examine the cross-modal neural interaction between the visual and auditory sensory systems caused by the illusory double-flash effect using combined auditory (beep sound) and visual (light flash) stimuli. The fMRI signal in the visual cortex was significantly increased in response to the illusory double flashes compared to the physical single flash when the inter-stimuli delay between the auditory and visual stimuli was 25 ms. This increase disappeared when the delay was prolonged to ~300 ms. These results reveal that the illusory double-flash effect can significantly affect the brain activity in the visual cortex, and the degree of this effect is dynamically sensitive to the inter-stimuli delay. The third experiment was to address the spatial differentiation of brain activation in the visual cortex in response to the illusory double-flash stimulation. It was found that the illusory double-flash effect in the human visual cortex is much stronger in the periphery than the fovea. This finding suggests that the periphery may be involved in high-level brain processing beyond the retinotopic visual perception. The behavioral measures conducted in this study indicate an excellent correlation between the fMRI results and behavioral performance. Finally, this work demonstrates a unique merit of fMRI for providing both temporal and spatial information regarding cross-modal neural interaction between different sensory systems.
The clinical nurse researcher: institutionalizing the role

The role of the clinical nurse researcher is central to the conduct of clinically relevant research and the integration of research findings into nursing practice, particularly within inpatient settings. Interviews with clinical nurse researchers revealed that implementation of the role occured under four major models: nursing research unit, dual roles, collaborative roles, and functional role division. Organizational and colleague support were critical to the visibility and viability of the clinical nurse researcher role.
Power, Borders, Security, Wealth: Lessons of Violence and Desire from September 11

America's “war on terror” and Al Qaeda's “jihad” reflect mirror strategies of imperial politics. Each camp transnationalizes violence and insecurity in the name of national or communal security. Neoliberal globalization underpins this militarization of daily life. Its desire industries motivate and legitimate elite arguments (whether from “infidels” or “terrorists”) that society must sacrifice for its hypermasculine leaders. Such violence and desire draw on colonial identities of Self vs. Other, patriotism vs. treason, hunter vs. prey, and masculinity vs. femininity that are played out on the bodies of ordinary men and women. We conclude with suggestions of a human security to displace the elite privilege that currently besets world politics.
A multi-input/multi-output optimal PI controller for redundant robots in the presence of flexible disturbances

The two-stage synthesis of a multi-input/multi-output optimal proportional-integral (PI) controller is described for linear, time-invariant systems. In the first stage the PI controller is designed by solving a steady state algebraic Riccati equation. As a result, the optimal cost is expressed in terms of the system's constant output set-points. In the second stage the cost is further reduced by optimally selecting the output set-points to minimize a static quadratic performance index subject to linear algebraic constraints. The design framework is applied to a planar redundant robotic manipulator equipped with four joints and mounted at the tip of a long flexible arm. We then address the problem of self-motion control in the presence of vibratory disturbances.
PM-14MODELING GBM IN MICE USING THE CRISPR NUCLEASE SYSTEM TO FUNCTIONALLY VALIDATE NOVEL CANDIDATE DRIVER GENES AND TEST NEW THERAPIES

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common malignant primary brain tumor and has a dismal survival rate of less than 20% in pediatric patients and less than 5% in adults. Identifying and functionally validating driver genes is needed to develop novel therapies to better treat GBM. To this end, we developed a novel method to induce de novo GBM in mice via in vivo gene transfer of the CRISPR nuclease system to functionally validate and/or screen candidate drivers. The CRISPR system is composed of the Cas9 nuclease that uses a RNA guide molecule (gRNA) to identify specific DNA sequences and induce double strand breaks (DSBs). These DSB are repaired by either the error prone process of non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or perfectly repaired by homologous recombination (HR), allowing the opportunity for gene knockout (KO) or introduction of new sequences into the genome, respectively. To test our system, we utilized information from a pre-validated set of genes shown to induce GBM via in vivo gene transfer of Sleeping Beauty transposons harboring NRASG12V and shTrp53. Thus, Polyethylenimine (PEI) complexed Cas9, Trp53-gRNA, SB100X transposase, and NRASG12V transposon plasmids were injected into the lateral ventricles of neonatal mice and aged for tumor development. Animals injected with Cas9 and Trp53-gRNA or SB100X and NRASG12V alone did not develop tumors whereas all animals receiving both developed rapid onset GBM in 60 ± 16 days. Analysis of the Trp53-gRNA target site from tumors demonstrated clonal frame-shift mutations. These results demonstrate that the CRISPR is highly efficient in vivo to KO gene function. Currently, we are replacing the NRASG12V transposon with the use of HR to incorporate the G12V mutation at the endogenous Nras locus. Future studies will focus on validating candidate GBM driver genes identified from human genomics data and forward genetic screens and attempts to model GBM subgroups.
Retirement and transition phenomena in the family purchase process

Research is needed on the family purchase process of retirement-age couples, because 78 million baby boomers are rapidly approaching retirement age. Both boomers and the retirement-age couples in this study present special opportunities to marketers through new roles adopted in retirement. This study reports on perceptions of family purchase process participation among retirement-age couples. Results indicate that transition retirees' family purchase process participation differs from that of post-transition retirees. This finding has managerial implications for marketers wishing to serve desirable segments of current and future retirement-age consumers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nuclear triiodothyronine receptor sites in brain: probable identity with hepatic receptors and regional distribution.

Studies were undertaken to compare the physicochemical characteristics of solubilized nuclear T3 receptors obtained from rat liver and brain and to establish the regional distribution of receptor sites in various areas of the brain. Scatchard analysis revealed that nuclear receptors from brain and liver had similar equilibrium association constants (2.3 ± 0.51 and 1.8 ± 0.54 × 1010 M-1, respectively). Simultaneous chromatography of mixed extracts of the soluble receptor sites on DEAE-Sephadex A-50 resulted in an identical elution pattern with a single peak at 0.15 M NaCl in a continuous saline gradient. Indistinguishable sedimentation patterns were observed on a 5–20% sucrose gradient. The relative affinities of several analogs of T3 including L-T4, 3′-isopropyl-3,5-L-diiodothyronine, 3,3′-5-triiodothyroacetic acid, and L-rT3 were nearly identical. These findings suggest that the nuclear T3 re eptor in brain and liver are the same. The concentrations of T3 specifically bound to nuclear sites in various re...
The Effect of Visual Biofeedback on the Propulsion Effectiveness of Experienced Wheelchair Users

Abstract Kotajarvi BR, Basford JR, An K-N, Morrow DA, Kaufman KR. The effect of visual biofeedback on the propulsion effectiveness of experienced wheelchair users. Objective To determine the effect of visual feedback on the propulsion effectiveness of experienced manual wheelchair users. Design Controlled trial. Setting A motion analysis laboratory. Participants A convenience sample of 16 healthy men and 2 healthy women with T4-L2 traumatic paraplegia, a mean age of 38±9 years, and a mean duration of manual wheelchair-based mobility of 14±8 years. Intervention Propulsion was assessed as the subjects propelled an instrumented wheelchair (with and without visual biofeedback) on a custom-built dynamometer at propulsion intensities of .15 and .25W/kg for 10 minutes. Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome variable was the fraction of effective force (FEF) (ie, the ratio of effective to total force) applied by the subject to the wheelchair's pushrim. Secondary variables included velocity, stroke frequency, and stroke angle. Results A 2-factor analysis of variance with repeated measurements was used to detect significant differences between the outcome variables. The FEF ratio was 73.9% without feedback and 72.5% with feedback at the lower-intensity level. Propulsion during the higher intensity condition both with and without feedback resulted in a statistically significant improvement in the FEF (73.9%–78.7% with no feedback, 72.5%–80.2% with feedback), compared with the lower-intensity level. Stroke angle increased from 84.3° to 98.7° and frequency decreased from 66 to 57.8 strokes/min with feedback. Conclusions Visual biofeedback may have little utility in improving the force effectiveness of manual wheelchair propulsion in experienced wheelchair users. Experienced wheelchair users may have already optimized their stroke in a manner that balances energy expenditure with stroke efficiency. Other variables such as stroke length and frequency may be more amenable to visual biofeedback.