cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Actuator/Sensor Placement Using Degree of Controllability and Observability for Digitally Controlled Orbiting Platforms

In this paper, definitions of degree of controllability/observability, which are defined based on a scalar value dependent on the controllability/observability Grammian matrix, are presented for discrete-time systems. The concepts of degree of controllability/observability are applied to the actuator/sensor placement problem for thin flexible orbiting square platforms. The LQG transient time responses for several typical systems with different degrees of controllability and observability are also displayed.
Infection risks in multiple myeloma: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials from 2015 to 2019.

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) remain at an increased risk of infection due to the disease process, as well as the ensuing treatments. We performed a systematic review to evaluate the monthly risk of grade III/IV infection, pneumonia, and neutropenia in patients with myeloma enrolled in randomized clinical trials (RCTs). The risk of grade III or higher infection, pneumonia, and neutropenia persists among all phases of treatment. There was no statistical difference in grade III or higher infection, pneumonia, and neutropenia between frontline and relapsed/refractory setting. In the maintenance setting, the complications of infection, pneumonia, and neutropenia were low, but not negligible. Three-drug regimens were no more likely than two-drug regimens to have an increased risk of Grade III or higher infection. This is the first study to quantify the monthly risk of grade III or higher infection, pneumonia, and neutropenia across different treatment regimens in the frontline, maintenance, and relapsed/refractory settings. The results of our systematic review demonstrate a significant risk for severe infection, pneumonia, and neutropenia in patients with MM. Further studies are needed to determine the value of antibiotic prophylaxis in a broader myeloma patient population, as well as other approaches that will further mitigate the morbidity and mortality related to infection in this vulnerable patient population. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-08451-x.
Understanding the relations among adverse childhood experiences (ACE), substance use, and reoffending among detained youth.

Abstract Background System-involved youth experience elevated rates of exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACE), which is related to reentry in the criminal legal system and increased risk of using substances, but there is little research on the indirect role of substance use in the relation between adversity and offending in youth offenders. Notably, the majority of youth report exposure to multiple adverse events and these experiences vary by gender. Objective The present study aimed to expand upon current literature by evaluating gender differences in the relations among cumulative ACEs, substance use severity, and reoffending in a sample of rural detained youth (N = 417). Methods and Results Using Poisson (count) regression analyses, cumulative adversity significantly predicted reoffending among girls and boys. Additionally, there was a significant indirect effect of ACEs on reoffending via substance use. Girls reported higher exposure to adversity and substance use, and gender significantly interacted with ACEs to predict substance use and reoffending. Conclusions These findings demonstrate the importance of cumulative experiences of adversity in childhood and substance use as predictors of youth reentry into the criminal legal system. Understanding the role of substance use in the relation between ACEs and reoffending has the potential to contribute to our knowledge of detained youth's treatment needs and reoffending risk.
A High Accuracy Characterization Method of Busbar Parasitic Capacitance for Three-level Converters Based on Vector Network Analyzer

Parasitic capacitance in power loop can impact switching performance of converters. Depending on the locations of those capacitors, they can mitigate switching stress if paralleled to DC-link capacitors, or introduce additional switching loss if paralleled to device output capacitance, Coss, or intensify common-mode EMI noise if paralleled to switching-node stray capacitance. Thus high-accuracy characterization of parasitic capacitance is necessary to estimate the performance of converter. This paper proposes novel method to measure stray capacitance in laminated busbar. Such method is based on a vector network analyzer (VNA). The direct assessment of each node-to-node capacitance is the key advantage compared to the traditional method. It also simplifies measurement process, avoids complicated math operation, and improves measurement accuracy in applications of assessing capacitance of the multiple-node systems, for example, three-level converters. This paper illustrates proposed method by measuring a laminated busbar. Design of customized fixtures is discussed for improving measurement consistency and accuracy. Measurement results are compared to the traditional method and ANSYS Q3D simulation to prove its accuracy.
Sensitivity and specificity of modified RUST score using clinical and radiographic findings as a gold standard.

Aims The modified Radiological Union Scale for Tibia (mRUST) fractures score was developed in order to assess progress to union and define a numerical assessment of fracture healing of metadiaphyse...
Applied Stochastic Models in Operations Research

A set of selected models in operations research and management science is applied here to show the various problems of real-life applications. In theory the decision-maker (DM) is supposed to know the type of model to apply in a given situation, also its parameters and the constraints of the environment. In real life this is a specification search process: a trial and error method with revisions at several stages from specification to estimation. One way to illustrate the search process is through some examples both empirical and analytical. With this objective the following examples are considered: 1. Optimal water allocation under stochastic demand (stochastic quadratic programming). 2. Specifying risk aversion in supply response (optimal control and optimal estimation). 3. Optimal fleet selection in a transportation network (optimizing a queuing model). 4. Optimal strategy of a monopolist under incomplete information (problem of uncertain entry). 5. Selected applications of stochastic programming dealing with fuzzy systems, computation of efficiency of multivariate systems and nonlinear estimation.
Building a Fuzzy System from Input--Output Data

We propose a new neural network for implementing fuzzy systems, and we prove that it can represent any continuous function over a compact set. We propose and test a method for building a fuzzy neural system from input-output data. We analyze the output data using fuzzy c-means to obtain the number of rules and to set some of the initial weights in the network. Then, we use this fuzzy neural network to identify the input variables and to determine the number of input membership functions. We show that the resulting model is simpler and yields better performance than previously proposed methods for extracting fuzzy systems and neural networks from input-output data.
Amperometric enzyme electrodes

Abstract A rapid, simple method for the measurement of ethanol or methanol has been developed by coupling amperometric hydrogen peroxide monitoring to the alcohol oxidase enzyme system. Alcohols can be measured within several seconds at concentrations as low as 0.5 mg/100 ml. The only reagent required is alcohol oxidase in phosphate buffer.
The Complexity of Universalism in Human Rights

I want to suggest, at the outset, that we must approach all claims of universality with caution and trepidation. There can be little doubt that visions of universality and predestination have been intertwined throughout modern history, and have been deployed as the linchpin for advancing narrow, sectarian, and exclusionary ideas and practices. At the purely theoretical level, therefore, we are chastised to look not once, but twice, and again, at universalizing creeds, messages, ideas, and phenomena. This is not to suggest that universality is always wrong-headed, or devious, but it is rather to assume that universality is not a natural phenomenon. In other words, universality is always constructed by an interest for a specific purpose, with a definite intent.
Estrategias en la prevención primaria de la enfermedad aterosclerosa coronaria

La enfermedad aterosclerosa coronaria constituye la primera causa de mortalidad en adultos. A fin de alcanzar una disminucion eficiente en la morbilidad y mortalidad por esta causa, se necesita implementar tanto la estrategia preventiva a nivel clinico como a nivel poblacional. Las ventajas y limitaciones de estas estrategias complementarias ejemplifican la necesidad del trabajo conjunto de medicos, profesionales en Salud Publica e Instituciones Gubernamentales en la prevencion de enfermedades cronicas con magnitud epidemica. Estrategias en la prevencion primaria de la enfermedad aterosclerosa coronaria
Creating electrical contacts between metal particles using directed electrochemical growth

Electrical connections in microelectronics are usually established by means of photolithography to define the conducting channels. But methods that do not involve lithography have been explored, such as the use of electrodeposition1 or electropolymerization2,3,4,5,6 to grow random structures of conducting material between two electrodes. This approach has been used to make diodes, transistors and signal amplifiers based on conducting polymers2,3. Template-based7,8,9,10,11,12 and thermal plating13 strategies have also been used to direct the growth of electrically conducting media. One advantage of these approaches over photolithography is the possibility of forming contacts in three dimensions and so achieving enhanced data-processing densities. Previous electrochemical approaches have required that the electrodes to be connected are physically linked to the external voltage source. Here we show that electrodissolution and electrodeposition processes in an applied electric field can be exploited to create directional growth of copper deposits between copper particles that are not connected to an external circuit. Moreover, the particles distort the electric field in such a way as to focus the diffusion of copper ions and consequently the direction of ‘wire’ growth, enabling the particles to be connected to one another in a directional and controllable manner. This suggests that appropriately directed electric fields may be used to connect an array of such particles into an arbitrary circuit pattern.
Cardiovascular changes in vaginal deliveries and cesarean sections.

Abstract There was no statistically significant difference in cardiac output between vaginal delivery or cesarean section. Central venous pressure was lower in cesarean section than vaginal deliveries at all points after anesthesia. Mean arterial pressure is lower in cesarean section than vaginal deliveries at all points after anesthesia. All values were within normal range. Mean circulation time was longer in the vaginal delivery group than the cesarean section group at Point F, the end of the procedure. Total peripheral resistance was less in the cesarean section group than the vaginal group, only at Point B, after administration of the anesthesia. None of the differences in the parameters measured would imply that cesarean section imposes a greater cardiac stress than vaginal delivery. This study indicates that cardiac strain is very similar in vaginal and abdominal delivery. Therefore, the length and type of labor should be a primary consideration in the pregnant cardiac patient.
Role of acid and pepsin in acute experimental esophagitis.

The roles of acid and pepsin in the production of acute feline esophagitis have been studied. Acid alone in high concentrations (pH 1.6 and 1.3) caused esophagitis. At lower acid concentration (pH 1.6 and 2.0), pepsin is an important factor in producing esophagitis. A suitable acid-pepsin solution has been selected for use as a standardized insult in an experimental model of esophagitis.
The Effects Of Extroversion On Conflict Resolution In Student Teams: A Cross-Cultural Comparison

This paper reports the results of a cross-cultural investigation of the role of Extroversion in determining the conflict resolution styles of business students in the United States and the Republic of Armenia. PLS modeling showed that Extroversion was associated with the Dominating style among US students and with the Compromising and Obliging styles among Armenian students. Extroversion was associated with the Integrating style in both cultures. Findings are discussed along with their implications for cross-cultural research.
Malls without stores (MwS): the affectual spaces of a Buenos Aires shopping mall

As shopping malls have become increasingly common in urban and suburban landscapes, retail and consumer sciences have made these spaces more affectively intense by targeting the body of the consumer directly. Through a case study of a shopping mall in central Buenos Aires, Argentina, I suggest that non‐representational theory offers advantages in studying spaces like malls for two reasons. First, shopping malls offer an opportunity to study the engineering of affect that is central to this emerging literature on materiality, politics and technology. The analysis, then, will lead to a discussion of the mall’s capacity to function as a biopolitical technology as well as an economic one. Second, this approach sutures a false binary in the consumption literature between strong theories of producer power and the creativity of consumers. Interviews with mall visitors, participant observation and findings from ethnographic field work inform the figure of malls without stores (MwS), an analytic concept adapted from Deleuze and Guattari’s body without organs (BwO) that reconfigures a binary reading of the consumption literature and expands the purview of what is political about these spaces.
Recurrent central nervous system white matter changes in charcot–Marie–Tooth type X disease

Introduction: X-linked Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT1X) disease is caused by mutations in the GJB1 gene. We describe a young man who presented with recurrent central nervous symptoms and transient white matter changes in the setting of a novel mutation in the GJB1 gene. Methods: Evaluation included clinical examination, neuroimaging, electrophysiological, and molecular genetic studies. Results: Clinical examination on 2 admissions 5 years apart demonstrated hemiparesis with findings of underlying peripheral neuropathy. Electrophysiologic studies revealed a sensorimotor polyneuropathy. MRI studies from both admissions revealed white matter changes, with improvement on an intervening study. Mutation analysis showed a novel mutation (c.98T>A; p.Ile33Asn) in the GJB1 gene. Conclusions: Mutations in GJB1 can result in recurrent central nervous system symptoms with transient white matter signal changes on MRI. In patients presenting with hemiparesis, the presence of signs of a peripheral neuropathy may facilitate identification of CMT1X, and is likely to affect clinical management. Muscle Nerve 49:451–454, 2014
The estimation of a family of measures of economic inequality

Abstract This paper shows that a broad class of measures of inequality (including those of Herfindahl and Theil) can be readily (and accurately) estimated from grouped data. The methods are similar to those developed earlier by the author for estimating the Gini index. The results are illustrated by estimating Thiel's index from tax data and show that the standard textbook grouping method of assuming that all incomes in any class are at the mid-point can lead to serious error in the resulting estimate of inequality.
Offshore Oregon: Observations on Regional Geology: ABSTRACT

The continental margin west of Oregon consists of a generally convex-upward surface 35 to 60 mi. (nautical) wide. The continental shelf, which forms the upper part of the surface, slopes seaward at less than 1° and ranges irregularly in width from 9 to 35 mi. Several elongate hills or banks rise above the general shelf level. The lower portion of the continental margin (continental slope) increases in average declivity from about 1°-10°, and is modified by numerous ridges, hills, benches, and submarine canyons. Off the central part of the Oregon coast the shelf widens from 13 mi. at 45°00^primeN. to 35 mi. at 43°58^primeN., and then narrows abruptly to 16 mi. at 43°55^primeN. Two essentially north-trending shoals, Stonewall Bank and Heceta Bank, dominate the topography of the shelf in this area. The apparent offlap relationship of late Eocene to middle Miocene marine sedimentary rocks along the shore and the occurrence of Pliocene marine sedimentary rocks on the two banks suggest that one or more Tertiary sedimentary basins exist beneath the continental shelf and slope. Gravity measurements indicate that thick sections of sedimentary rocks may be present. From echo soundings, Stonewall and Heceta Banks are interpreted to be the surface expressions of structures associated with the Tertiary basins. Fine to very fine detrital sands and glauconite-rich silts and clays cover the shelf in areas between the gravel and rock outcrops common on and in the vicinity of the shoals. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1758------------
Solvent effects in the electroreduction of [diamine-N,N′-polycar☐ylato]chromate(III) complexes at a mercury electrode

Abstract The effect of the solvent on the electroreduction of ethylenediaminetetraacetatochromate(III) ([CrEDTA] − ), cyclohexanediamine-tetraacetatochromate(III) ([CrCYDTA] − ) and (2-hydroxyethyl)ethylenediaminetriacetato-chromium(III) ([CrHEDTRA]) has been investigated in different solvents on a mercury electrode using convolution potential sweep voltammetry. The observed electron transfer rate constant and the transfer coefficient have been corrected for double-layer effects. It has been shown that the formal potential for the reduction of all three complexes in a series of solvents is a linear function of the solvent acceptor number. The logarithm of the corrected standard rate constant for the EDTA and CYDTA complexes depends on the solvent acceptor number and the logarithm of the solvent's longitudinal relaxation time, whereas for [CrHEDTRA] it depends on the solvent's acceptor and donor numbers. It is concluded that, in the case of the EDTA and CYDTA complexes, no solvent molecules are incorporated as ligands in the first coordination sphere. However, in the HEDTRA complex the coordinated water molecule originally present is substituted by the solvent in which the reaction takes place.
A simulation using data from a primary care practice database closely replicated the women's health initiative trial.

Abstract Objective In contrast to prior observational studies, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) did not prevent coronary heart disease in the Women's Health Initiative Randomized Controlled Trial (WHI RCT). To assess the validity of a novel observational study design, we compared the WHI RCT with a simulation using data from the United Kingdom General Practice Research Database (GPRD). Study Design and Setting A cohort from GPRD was used to simulate the WHI RCT by replicating, to the extent possible, all aspects of the RCT except randomization. The study included 37,730 Unexposed and 13,658 Exposed women treated with estrogen and norgestrel. Results Myocardial infarction (adjusted hazard ratio 0.95 [0.78–1.16]) was not decreased significantly in the GPRD Exposed group. Similar to the WHI RCT, stroke, venous thromboembolic events, and breast cancer were increased; and colorectal cancer was decreased. Although death appeared to decrease in the total cohort, it was unaltered in a subset of subjects without missing data on baseline covariates. Conclusion A structured comparison using data from GPRD was largely concordant with the WHI RCT and did not show a cardioprotective effect of HRT. These findings further generalize the results of WHI and reinforce the potential utility of this analytic approach
Nest survival of Red-winged Blackbirds in agricultural areas developed for wind energy

Wind energy development is a major priority in the United States, both economically and environmentally. However, there are growing concerns about the impacts to wildlife, including direct mortality and indirect effects such as displacement. Yet little knowledge has been gained regarding effects on reproduction. We monitored 534 Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius pheoniceus) nests at three wind farms and paired control sites in Iowa during 2011 and 2012 to determine what effect, if any, wind turbine proximity had on the survival of nests. We modeled daily nest survival rates during the incubation and nestling stages in program MARK. In addition to proximity to turbine, we included other covariates which are known to effect nest survival including nest height, vegetation above nest, Robel pole vegetation density measures, age of nest, distance to woodlot, and Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater) parasitism. We found no differences in survival between our control and turbine sites at any site or year, and no effect of turbine proximity during the incubation stage. The best model for the nestling stage included a small effect of turbine proximity, with nest survival being slightly higher, though not significantly so, closer to turbines. Our results indicate that, for a generalist species breeding in an agricultural landscape, wind turbine proximity has negligible effects on reproductive success.
Buoyancy compensation of juvenile chinook salmon implanted with two different size dummy transmitters

Abstract We investigated the effect of two different sizes of surgically implanted transmitters on the buoyancy compensation of juvenile chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha. We determined buoyancy by measuring the density of fish with a filled air bladder in graded salinity baths. In addition, we examined the effect of pressure changes on buoyancy by measuring the pressure reduction (PR ) at which fish became neutrally buoyant. We found no significant difference between the density of control and tagged groups, indicating that fish were able to compensate for the transmitter by filling their air bladders. However, both groups of tagged fish had significantly lower PR than control fish. Regression analysis of fish density on PR indicated that density of the tagged groups changed at a higher rate than that of the controls. As a result, tagged fish attained neutral buoyancy with less pressure reduction even though the tagged and control groups exhibited similar densities. This relation was confirmed by u...
Examination of protein crystals in the hanging drop using digital image capture techniques

Abstract One of the current methods of producing protein crystals in a microgravity environment is to grow them in a hanging droplet suspended from a two barrel syringe. A large number of these hanging drop experiments have been with mixed success since there has been no way to constantly monitor growth rate or events that could perturb the growth of the crystals. In our research we have been using image capture techniques using a monochrome CCD and a microscope objective lens to record images of the crystals within the hanging drop. Using a two barrel syringe, we extrude a solution of lysozyme and salt so that a drop is produced at the tip of the syringe. As the crystals begin to grow, we record the images of the backlit drop with an Imaging Technology frame grabber connected to an IBM PC XT. Sequential pictures are stored for further analysis. From the stored pictures we can measure crystal sizes, their distribution in the droplet and any movements which occur, as well as relative size changes from which we can calculate rates of growth or changes in morphology. This system is a prototype for a flyable unit which will be enclosed in an hermetically sealed box containing six droplets and six cameras. Each cell will be monitored by a small CCD microscope and the images will be recorded on the video tape unit in the Space Shuttle. It will also be possible for the principal investigator to view the activity within each drop in real-time.
A BROADLY TUNABLE AUTOCORRELATOR FOR ULTRA-SHORT, ULTRA-HIGH POWER INFRARED OPTICAL PULSES

Abstract We describe the design of a crossed-beam, optical autocorrelator employing an uncoated, birefringent beamsplitter to split a linearly polarized incident pulse into two orthogonally polarized pulses, and a type II SHG crystal to generate the intensity autocorrelation function. The sapphire beamsplitter accommodates extremely broadband tunability while precluding any temporal distortion of the ultrashort optical pulses at the dielectric interface, while the specific design provides efficient operation between 1 and 4 μm. Furthermore, the use of Type II SHG completely eliminates any single-beam doubling, so the autocorrelator can be operated at very shallow crossed-beam angles without generating a background pedestal. The autocorrelator has been constructed and installed in the Mark III laboratory at Duke University as a broadband diagnostic for ongoing compression experiments on the chirped-pulse FEL.
Numerical model of unsteady subsonic aeroelastic behavior

A method for predicting unsteady, subsonic aeroelastic responses was developed. The technique accounts for aerodynamic nonlinearities associated with angles of attack, vortex-dominated flow, static deformations, and unsteady behavior. The fluid and the wing together are treated as a single dynamical system, and the equations of motion for the structure and flow field are integrated simultaneously and interactively in the time domain. The method employs an iterative scheme based on a predictor-corrector technique. The aerodynamic loads are computed by the general unsteady vortex-lattice method and are determined simultaneously with the motion of the wing. Because the unsteady vortex-lattice method predicts the wake as part of the solution, the history of the motion is taken into account; hysteresis is predicted. Two models are used to demonstrate the technique: a rigid wing on an elastic support experiencing plunge and pitch about the elastic axis, and an elastic wing rigidly supported at the root chord experiencing spanwise bending and twisting. The method can be readily extended to account for structural nonlinearities and/or substitute aerodynamic load models. The time domain solution coupled with the unsteady vortex-lattice method provides the capability of graphically depicting wing and wake motion.
Metabolic responses to dietary fatty acids in obese women

Abstract Background The composition of fatty acids in a diet may differentially affect metabolism, thus playing a role in the development of obesity. Our purpose was to study the effects of three high-fat (HF) meals with different dietary fatty acid compositions on the thermic effect of meal (TEM) and substrate oxidation in obese premenopausal women. Methods 16 healthy obese women, aged 18–39 years, participated in a single-blinded randomized cross-over study, in which they consumed isocaloric HF meals (70% of energy from fat) rich in either saturated fat (SFA), monounsaturated fat (MUFA) or polyunsaturated fat (PUFA). Indirect calorimetry was used to measure respiratory gases for a 5-hour postprandial period. Data collected was used to determine respiratory exchange ratio (RER) for assessing substrate oxidation, and energy expenditure for the determination of TEM. Results There was a significant time effect on both substrate oxidation and TEM (p Conclusions In premenopausal obese women, HF meals rich in either MUFAs, PUFAs, or SFAs did not differentially affect TEM or postprandial substrate oxidation.
A STEP-TO GAIT DECREASES PRESSURES ON THE FOREFOOT

Physical therapists use various gait training strategies to reduce stress on the lower extremities, but we could find no description or evaluation of the step-to gait using a cane. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a step-to gait pattern and a cane on peak plantar pressures on the forefoot and the heel. Ten healthy subjects were evaluated (five females, five males, mean age = 24.6 ± 4.9 years). In addition, one subject with peripheral neuropathy was tested to determine if a patient could be trained to use the step-to walking pattern and show similar results. All subjects were instructed in four walking conditions: step-to with and without a cane and step-through with and without a cane. Walking speed during the step-through pattern (normal walking) was matched to the speed of the step-to pattern. For the 10 healthy subjects, peak plantar pressures and walking speed of each of the four conditions were compared using a 2 × 2 repeated measures analysis of variance. One factor was gait p...
Production and metabolic effects of site of starch digestion in dairy cattle

Milk solids yield in modern dairy cows has increased linearly over the last 50 years, stressing the need for maximal dietary energy intake to allow genetic potential for milk energy yield to be realized with minimal negative effects on health and reproduction. Feeding supplemental starch is a common approach for increasing the energy density of the ration and supplying carbon for meeting the substantial glucose requirement of the higher yielding cow. In this regard, it is a long held belief that feeding starch in forms that increase digestion in the small intestine and glucose absorption will benefit the cow in terms of energetic efficiency and production response, but data supporting this dogma are equivocal. This review will consider the impact of supplemental starch and site of starch digestion on metabolic and production responses of lactating dairy cows, including effects on feed intake, milk yield and composition, nutrient partitioning, the capacity of the small intestine for starch digestion, and nutrient absorption and metabolism by the splanchnic tissues (the portal-drained viscera and liver). Whilst there appears to be considerable capacity for starch digestion and glucose absorption in the lactating dairy cow, numerous strategic studies implementing postruminal starch or glucose infusions have observed increases in milk yield, but decreased milk fat concentration such that there is little effect on milk energy yield, even in early lactation. Measurements of energy balance confirm that the majority of the supplemental energy arising from postruminal starch digestion is used with high efficiency to support body adipose and protein retention, even in early lactation. These responses may be mediated by changes in insulin status, and be beneficial to the cow in terms of reproductive success and well-being. However, shifting starch digestion from the rumen impacts the nitrogen economy of the cow as well by shifting the microbial protein gained from starch digestion from potentially absorbable protein to endogenous faecal loss.
Post-proteasomal antigen processing for major histocompatibility complex class I presentation

Peptides presented by major histocompatibility complex class I molecules are derived mainly from cytosolic oligopeptides generated by proteasomes during the degradation of intracellular proteins. Proteasomal cleavages generate the final C terminus of these epitopes. Although proteasomes may produce mature epitopes that are eight to ten residues in length, they more often generate N-extended precursors that are too long to bind to major histocompatibility complex class I molecules. Such precursors are trimmed in the cytosol or in the endoplasmic reticulum by aminopeptidases that generate the N terminus of the presented epitope. Peptidases can also destroy epitopes by trimming peptides to below the size needed for presentation. In the cytosol, endopeptidases, especially thimet oligopeptidase, and aminopeptidases degrade many proteasomal products, thereby limiting the supply of many antigenic peptides. Thus, the extent of antigen presentation depends on the balance between several proteolytic processes that may generate or destroy epitopes.
Cultivating knowledge: Development, dissemblance, and discursive contradictions among the Diola of Guinea-Bissau

Development practitioners are eager to “learn from farmers” in their efforts to address Africa's deteriorating agricultural output. But many agrarian groups, such as Diola rice cultivators in Guinea-Bissau, regulate the circulation of knowledge—whether about agriculture, household economy, or day-to-day activities. In this article, I thus problematize the assumptions that knowledge is an extractable resource, that more knowledge is better, and that democratized knowledge leads to progress. I consider how the Diola tendency to circumscribe information both challenges external development objectives and contours the ways Diola themselves confront their declining economic conditions. [agrarian change, knowledge, development, Africa, secrecy, Guinea-Bissau]
Performance and Analysis of Perfluoropolyalkyl Ether Grease Used on Space Shuttle Actuators--A Case Study

Actuators used on the U.S. space shuttle fleet are lubricated with unspecified amounts of Braycote 601 grease consisting of a perfluorinatedpolyalkyl ether (PFPAE) base oil thickened with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Each shuttle has four body flap actuators (BFAs; two on each wing) on a common segmented shaft and four rudder speed brake (RSB) actuators. The actuators were designed to operate for 10 years and 100 flights without periodic relubrication. Visible inspection of two partially disassembled RSB actuators in continuous use for 19 years raised concerns over possible grease degradation due to discoloration of the grease on several places on the surfaces of the gears. Inspection revealed fretting, micropitting, wear, and corrosion of the bearings and gears. A small amount of oil dripped from the disassembled actuators. New grease is beige in appearance, whereas the discolored grease was both grey and reddish. Grease samples taken from the actuators together with representative off-the-shelf new a...
At the Listening Post, or, do machines perform?

Listening Post, a collaboration between statistician Mark Hansen and media artist Ben Rubin, samples conversations from public Internet chat sites. The sampled texts are displayed on small LCD scre...
A portable diffuse reflectance spectrophotometer for the rapid and automatic measurement of meat pigments

A portable reflectance spectrophotometry system, which can measure a wide range of absorbance and has an adhesive pad type fibre optic probe, was developed to improve the availability of non-invasive reflectance spectrophotometry. A Czerny-Turner type spectrometer, which can be connected to an optical fibre probe, was developed, and a linear charge coupled device (CCD) was used as its light detector to increase data acquisition speed. The scanning time of the linear CCD is automatically controlled in accordance with the reflectance of meat to increase the dynamic range of absorption. The author tried to apply this instrument to samples of meat pigments in order to demonstrate whether reflectance spectrophotometry is suitable for evaluating the freshness of meat. The author examined myoglobin solution in the form of the met-derivative in order to detect the concentration of myoglobin. The absorbance spectrum of myoglobin in the range of 0-4 mg dl-1 was successfully distinguished with this instrument.
Viral-mediated Labeling and Transplantation of Medial Ganglionic Eminence (MGE) Cells for In Vivo Studies

GABAergic cortical interneurons, derived from the embryonic medial and caudal ganglionic eminences (MGE and CGE), are functionally and morphologically diverse. Inroads have been made in understanding the roles of distinct cortical interneuron subgroups, however, there are still many mechanisms to be worked out that may contribute to the development and maturation of different types of GABAergic cells. Moreover, altered GABAergic signaling may contribute to phenotypes of autism, schizophrenia and epilepsy. Specific Cre-driver lines have begun to parcel out the functions of unique interneuron subgroups. Despite the advances in mouse models, it is often difficult to efficiently study GABAergic cortical interneuron progenitors with molecular approaches in vivo. One important technique used to study the cell autonomous programming of these cells is transplantation of MGE cells into host cortices. These transplanted cells migrate extensively, differentiate, and functionally integrate. In addition, MGE cells can be efficiently transduced with lentivirus immediately prior to transplantation, allowing for a multitude of molecular approaches. Here we detail a protocol to efficiently transduce MGE cells before transplantation for in vivo analysis, using available Cre-driver lines and Cre-dependent expression vectors. This approach is advantageous because it combines precise genetic manipulation with the ability of these cells to disperse after transplantation, permitting greater cell-type specific resolution in vivo.
IMAGINATION AND THE WORLD: A CALL FOR ECOLOGICAL EXPRESSIVE THERAPIES

Several years ago, standing in the caves of Font de Gaume in France before the graceful animal images dancing on the walls, I felt as connected to the 17,000-year-old paintings as if I had just watched them emerge in an art therapy session or in a painting studio. And more, I felt a profound sense of gratitude that moved me to tears. It was as if I had just been introduced to my ancestors and they had spoken to me about life, the surrounding world, spirit and art-making. Later, seated in the sunshine at a nearby village cafe, I wondered at the power of these colored marks on a rocky surface to connect me not only to the animals they represented but also to the people who painted them. Like many others before me, I speculated on how the artists had traveled deep into the warren of caves and searched the surface of the walls to find just the right curve to swell out this antelope’s belly, that deer’s haunches. How had they mixed their colors and applied them, by flickering torch-light, to surfaces often higher than arms-reach or hidden low beneath an overhang? How and why? And, all these millennia later, yet another small group of people of assorted nationalities, and perhaps worldviews, would not only agree that those colored splotches depicted animal-forms but would also respond to the life they represented and to the artists’ appreciation for that life. Art is indeed magical and mysterious, reaching as it does, through time and space, deep into our core. Having once seen these images how can we view our world, our selves, our history, in quite the same way? Franck (1973) describes his own response to cave paintings where he experienced:
Progress and Outlook of Inorganic Nanoparticles for Delivery of Nucleic Acid Sequences Related to Orthopedic Pathologies: A Review

The anticipated growth in the aging population will drastically increase medical needs of society; of which, one of the largest components will undoubtedly be from orthopedic-related pathologies. There are several proposed solutions being investigated to cost-effectively prepare for the future—pharmaceuticals, implant devices, cell and gene therapies, or some combination thereof. Gene therapy is one of the more promising possibilities because it seeks to correct the root of the problem, thereby minimizing treatment duration and cost. Currently, viral vectors have shown the highest efficacies, but immunological concerns remain. Nonviral methods show reduced immune responses but are regarded as less efficient. The nonviral paradigms consist of mechanical and chemical approaches. While organic-based materials have been used more frequently in particle-based methods, inorganic materials capable of delivery have distinct advantages, especially advantageous in orthopedic applications. The inorganic gene therapy...
Silicate Biomaterials for Orthopaedic and Dental Implants

Many developed nations including the U.S.A. have increasingly older populations as birth rates have declined and life expectancy has increased over the twentieth century. A corresponding factor of two increase in demand for artificial joint and dental implants is anticipated over the next thirty years (Piehler 2000). The development of biomaterials for orthopaedic and dental implants with improved properties and durability in the human body is critical to deal with this aging population. Broadly speaking, the first-generation of biomaterials was bioinert, whereas bioactive and bioresorbable materials represented improved, second-generation materials. Still, one third to one half of the prostheses fail within 10–25 years and require a second surgery (Shirtliff and Hench 2003 and references therein). The challenge facing the development of improved orthopaedic and dental biomaterials for the future is to design materials that are biocompatible, capable of bearing high stress and loads, and that invoke positive cellular and genetic responses for the rapid repair, modification, regeneration and maintenance of the affected tissue in the human body, i.e., tissue engineering. In this chapter, we will provide a brief history of the use of implants, and review the requirements that a biomaterial must fulfill to be used effectively as an orthopaedic or dental implant, the chemical composition-structure-activity of different types of silicate biomaterials including glasses and ceramics, the chemical reactions that occur at the silicate implant/solution interface involving inorganic ions and organic biomolecules (mainly proteins). We will also review studies that show the effects of different synthetic solutions, used experimentally to mimic human blood plasma, on in vitro tests of bioactivity. Our focus will be on dense silicate biomaterials that have up to ~20% porosity and high mechanical strength, in contrast to porous biomaterials with ~40–60% porosity and scaffold materials that have ~80% porosity and almost no mechanical strength. We will …
Information processing capacity in children: A test of Pascual-Leone's model☆

Pascual-Leone's (1970) model was tested in an experiment where 8-year-old children reproduced actions and where the number of actions requested varied. A key assumption that k, the estimate of cognitive capacity, is constant and independent of n was not supported by the data, and the model was statistically rejected by a number of goodness-of-fit tests. These findings were replicated in analyses of Pascual-Leone's (1970) own data. It was also found that k did not increase with age and stage in a manner assumed by Pascual-Leone. Several errors, confounds, and artifacts in Pascual-Leone's (1970) study are indicated. The problem of measuring capacity limits when both structural and subject control processes are confounded is also discussed.
Inhibition of aortic histamine synthesis by α-hydrazinohistidine inhibits increased aortic albumin accumulation in experimental diabetes in the rat

We examined the interrelationship between inhibition of aortic histamine synthesis through inhibition of aortic histidine decarboxylase and intra-aortic albumin accumulation in rats made diabetic by a jugular vein injection of 60 mg/kg of streptozotocin under ether anesthesia. Animals were held for 4 weeks following overt manifestation of diabetes. At the end of 3 weeks, at least six animals in each of the diabetic and non-diabetic groups received intra-peritoneal injections of α-hydrazinohistidine (25 mg/kg at 12 h) for the last 7 days. Aortic albumin accumulation was measured by quantification of aortic uptake of fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugated to rat serum albumin injected in the jugular vein 1 h before sacrifice. The aortic albumin mass transfer and flux rates of the diabetic group were more than 300% higher than that of the control group; α-hydrazinohistidine treated diabetic rats had aortic albumin mass transfer rates equivalent to control values. The aortic albumin content was nearly tenfold higher in untreated diabetic rats, but again treatment with α-hydrazinohistidine returned this to control values. These data offer strong support to the premise that accelerated aortic histamine synthesis, which occurs in experimental diabetes, is an important mediator of increased aortic macromolecule uptake, and as such, may be one component of the multitude of factors responsible for increased susceptibility of atherosclerosis among individuals having diabetes mellitus.
Teinobasis budeni sp. nov. from Pohnpei, Eastern Caroline Islands, Micronesia (Odonata: Coenagrionidae)

Abstract Teinobasis budeni sp. nov. is described from Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia. Holotype ♂: Micronesia, Pohnpei, Sokehs, Nanpil River headwaters, 01 July 2001; allotype ♀: same locality, 03 February 2001, both leg. D.W. Buden; to be deposited in FSCA, Gainesville, FL, USA. The new species belongs in the Fortis-group and differs from all species in that group by characters of the male appendages, female ovipositor, hind prothoracic lobe, and coloration of immatures.
Information Transmission in Viable Systems.

Le modele de systeme viable de Beer est utilise pour exposer les exigences en information d'un systeme qui doit engager un processus d'adaptation, pour preciser la source de cette information et l'effet de la transmission de l'information sur la cohesion du systeme. Quatre hypotheses sont etablies et testees de facon empirique a partir de donnees collectees chez des agents d'assurances en Australie.(INTD)
Paget's disease.

A review of the signs, symptoms, and treatment of Paget's disease is presented. Paget, or osteitis deformans, is a chronic, progressive, bone disease of viral etiology. Recent investigations about the causative agent of this disorder have implicated the measles virus of the paramyxovirus family. Additional studies have demonstrated that abnormal virus-infected osteoclasts generate interleukin (IL)-6, a resorptive cytokine from the bone marrow of patients with Paget's bone disease.
Cultural Anchoring in the Service Sector

Examines a new addition to thinking on adoption and diffusion of service innovations – the Cultural Anchoring Diffusion/Assimilation Model. Suggests that certain service innovations may encourage a type of psychological dependence that leads an individual′s self‐concept to become linked to his or her usage of a new service. Recommends, as a result of this model, several strategies for service marketing managers.
Interconnect prediction for programmable logic devices

Classical interconnect prediction would seem to be a perfect fit for the design of programmable logic architectures (PLDs). Yet theoretical models such as those based on Rent's Rule are usually only used for rough estimates in the early stages of an architecture development. In practice, empirical methods (evaluation via many test designs) dominate the evaluation of fitting and performance for PLD architectures.The primary reasons for this gap between theory and practice are that the models are difficult to extend to fixed architectures with hierarchy and heterogeneous resources and that many of the cost metrics are different between gate-arrays and PLDs.In this paper and the accompanying talk I will survey some of the issues with line-count estimation for the design of PLDs. I will point out some of the inherent differences between the way interconnect is used in PLDs and gate arrays which lead to new opportunities in the development of the theory. Some previous results will show how interconnect is typically researched in the PLD community. For an idealized PLD architecture, I will attempt to define a simple line-count estimation model using the classical theory and compare it to results in practice. I will also present some empirical and anecdotal data useful for understanding the issues and pitfalls involved in architecture evaluation.The primary goal of this work is to motivate new directions in the theory of interconnect prediction and interconnect prediction specifically for PLDs.