cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An extrapolation procedure to shorten time domain simulations

Time-domain simulation algorithms are widely used in the analysis and design of electromagnetic systems. Many of them are characterized by high Qs. Thus, the simulations have to employ many time steps in order to achieve a complete characterization of these systems. This time-consuming computational effort can be avoided if the late instants of time are extrapolated by applying a parametric estimation algorithm. An optimized implementation of a time-domain extrapolation method and a stop criterion are discussed in this paper. The latter criterion is based upon a normalized squared difference between the waveforms extrapolated from two different sets of initial data and it is used as a means to stop the time domain simulation algorithm.
Selective depletion of CD8+ T lymphocytes for prevention of graft- versus-host disease after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation

The effects of selectively depleting CD8+ cells from donor bone marrow were assessed in 36 patients receiving transplantation from an HLA-identical sibling as treatment for leukemia. Donor bone marrow underwent ex vivo treatment using anti-Leu-2 monoclonal antibody and complement. Patients received cyclosporine post-transplant for 6 months. Thirty-three patients had initial engraftment. Three failed to have hematologic recovery, and one patient with initial engraftment had late graft failure. The actuarial incidence of grade greater than or equal to 2 acute graft-versus-host disease was 28% +/- 18% and was usually confined to the skin. Of 33 patients with engraftment, 32 were complete chimeras and one had mixed chimerism. The tempo of hematologic and immunologic recovery was comparable with that reported with transplantation of unmodified bone marrow, although CD4+ and CD8+ T cells recovered at comparable rates. The actuarial rate of leukemia relapse was 11% +/- 10%, occurring in three patients with acute leukemia but in none of 13 patients transplanted for chronic myelogenous leukemia. Actuarial survival was 57% +/- 17% at 2 years. These data indicate that after transplantation of marrow depleted of CD8+ cells, engraftment with prompt hematologic and immunologic recovery generally occurs, with a relatively low rate of acute graft-versus-host disease. Graft failure remains a problem despite retention of CD4+ cells within the donor marrow. The lack of leukemia relapse in patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia suggests retention of a graft-versus-leukemia effect, at least for this malignancy.
DNA-PK and ATR are responsible for the G2 checkpoint activation by the nucleoside analog CNDAC

Proc Amer Assoc Cancer Res, Volume 47, 2006 4902 The nucleoside analog CNDAC (2’- C -cyano-2’-deoxy-1-β-D-arabino-pentofuranosyl-cytosine) has a novel mechanism of action of causing a single strand break subsequent to its incorporation into DNA, which associates with activation of the G2 checkpoint. The Chk1-Cdc25C-Cdk1/Cyclin B pathway is activated in instituting this G2 arrest (Cancer Res. 2005, 65:6874-81). In order to define the role of upstream DNA damage checkpoint sensors, particularly the major PI 3-kinase family proteins, we used genetically defined cell lines and PI 3-kinase inhibitors to determine the biological response to CNDAC at minimal concentrations causing cell cycle arrest. Exposure of fibroblasts, ATM mutant, vector control and repleted lines, to CNDAC for 24 hr increased the G2 population equally; also phospho-Ser345 of Chk1 increased in both mutant and repleted lines, suggesting ATM is not required to activate the G2 checkpoint in response to CNDAC. However, clonogenic assays showed the CNDAC concentration needed to kill 90% of the ATM mutant cells was 20-fold less than that for the repleted cells, indicating ATM is essential for cell survival after DNA damage by CNDAC. In contrast to the AT lines, there was no sensitization of clonogenicity in DNA-PK mutant glioblastoma cells (M059-J) compared to the wild type (M059-K). Both M059-K and -J cells arrested in G2 upon CNDAC treatment. However, significantly more M059-J cells progressed through G2 following CNDAC treatment and were trapped in mitosis by nocodazole compared to the wild type. M059-K cells incubated with CNDAC and nocodazole had a mitotic index of <3%, whereas the mitotic index of M059-J cells (10.8%, p<0.01) was about half of that in cells treated with nocodazole alone. Thus, it appears that DNA-PK is partially responsible for G2 checkpoint activation by CNDAC. Two PI 3-kinase inhibitors, caffeine and wortmannin, were used to suppress CNDAC-induced G2 checkpoint. Caffeine (3 mM) was capable of abolishing CNDAC-induced G2 arrest in human AML ML-1, ATM mutant and colon cancer HCT116 cells. Considering that ATM is not involved, it appears that ATR might be important for this G2 checkpoint activation. Wortmannin completely abolished CNDAC-induced G2 arrest in ML-1 and ATM mutant cells at a lower concentration (10 μM). As ATM was not detectable in ML-1 cells, even under the condition of IR, these results indicated that DNA-PK is essential for the G2 checkpoint activation by CNDAC in these lines. In HCT116 cells, CNDAC-induced G2 arrest was reduced from 48% to 33% by 10 μM wortmannin, and was further abolished to a level less than untreated cells (17%) by 100 μM wortmannin, indicating participation of ATR in this G2 checkpoint pathway. Together, our data demonstrated both DNA-PK and ATR are responsible for CNDAC-induced activation of the G2 checkpoint.
Implementation of three robotic control architectures for robot navigation

In this paper three simple robotic control architectures for the safe navigation across a small room with static obstructions will be implemented. The first system is to be deliberative. It is to have a method for storing the room information, determining an appropriate path across the room, and executing the determined solution. The second system is to be reactive. It will have no knowledge of the room. Instead it will use its sensors and a set of rules to safely navigate across the room. The last system is to make use of a neural network in determining the navigation path.
ESTRUCTURA Y TEMA RETORICOS EN EL "SERMON DE NUESTRA SEÑORA DEL CARMEN" DE JUAN DE ESPINOSA MEDRANO

En su analisis de la historia literaria hispanica, Damaso Alonso sostiene que el estado olvidado de la oratoria sagrada no desmiente su importancia y que con la comedia es el mas importante de todos los generos de su tiempo (974). Su capacidad de captar al publico con poder penetrante, declamaciones, gestos y teatralidad (Lopez Santos 353) es semejante a la del teatro de Calderon o a la de las obras de Quevedo, Gongora y Ledesma (Vargas Ugarte 21). Tanto Gongora como Lope resenaron o criticaron la obra de muchos predicadores del Siglo de Oro espanol, uno de los cuales fue el Padre Hortensio Felix Paravicino, quien introdujo el nuevo gusto barroco a la oratoria sagrada (Alonso 977). Este estilo, con todas sus extravagancias apasionadas y cultismos elevados, puso el genero en crisis y dio mayor enfasis a la forma que al fondo (Alonso 977, Herrero Garcia LVIII).
Stochastic hybrid systems modeling and performance verification of behavior-based robots

Behavior-based robotics (BBR) has gained popularity because of its simplicity, flexibility and adaptability. However, lack of formalization from performance guarantee aspect has been a concern in BBR especially for safety critical applications. Motivated by this challenge, we propose a formal model for BBR using a discrete-time controlled stochastic hybrid system (dt-cSHS) framework. Uncertainties from sensors, actuators, and the environment are modeled by stochastic kernels in the dt-cSHS. For performance verification, safety and reachability specifications are considered; abstraction and model checking are carried on the hybrid system model. The modeling and verification procedures are illustrated by examples of BBR applications.
Serum adipokine and inflammatory markers before and after liver transplantation in recipients with major cardiovascular events.

In the nontransplant setting, aberrant serum adipokine levels are associated with cardiovascular (CV) disease. The effects of liver transplantation (LT) on serum adipokine levels and their association with post-LT CV disease have not been studied. A nested case-control study of 77 patients with major CV events more than 4 months after LT analyzed serum adiponectin, resistin, leptin, C-reactive protein, and apolipoprotein levels measured before transplantation and 4, 12, and 24 months after LT. Adiponectin and resistin levels decreased dramatically after LT in all patients. Recipients with CV disease had lower levels of adiponectin and higher levels of resistin, leptin, C-reactive protein, and apolipoprotein B100 than controls. The pre-LT adiponectin level was associated with a 16% increased risk for CV events for every 1 μg/mL decrease in adiponectin [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.84, P = 0.046]. Pre-LT C-reactive protein levels (HR = 1.03, P = 0.047) and 12-month C-reactive protein levels (HR = 1.03, P = 0.03) were associated with CV events after LT. Pre-LT Diabetes (HR = 2.14, P = 0.09), and post-LT resistin (HR = 1.07, P = 0.07), and apolipoprotein B (HR = 1.08, P = 0.08) were associated with a nonsignificantly increased risk of CV events in this small sample size. In conclusion, pre- and post-LT changes in serum adipokine and inflammatory markers may be signals of an increased risk of CV events after LT, but further study is needed.
DSN water vapor radiometer development: Recent work, 1978

A water vapor radiometer (WVR) was developed that measures the atmospheric noise temperature at two different frequencies near 22 GHz. These noise temperature are used in empirical-theoretical equations that yield tropospheric range delay, in centimeters, through the atmosphere along the beam of the WVR. This range correction is then applied, as needed, to measurements concerning spacecraft range and to VLBI baseline determinations. The WVR design and calibration techniques are discussed.
Singularities and Oscillations in a Nonlinear Variational Wave Equation

This paper analyzes a nonlinear variational wave equation in which the wave speed is a function of the dependent variable. The wave equation arises is a number of different physical contexts and is the simplest example of an interesting class of nonlinear hyperbolic partial differential equations. We describe a blow-up result for the one-dimensional wave equation which shows that smooth solutions break down in finite time. We illustrate this result with some numerical solutions. We also derive a closed system of equations which describe the interaction between the mean field of a solution and oscillations in its spatial derivative.
Midtrimester abortion induced with a single intra-amniotic instillation of prostaglandin F2α

Abstract Midtrimester abortion was successfully induced in 20 patients with a single intra-amniotic instillation of 40 mg. of prostaglandin F 2α administered over a 10 minute period. Seventeen patients aborted completely and three aborted incompletely. The mean abortion time from the intra-amniotic instillation of the PGF 2α to the abortion of the fetus was 16.24 hours. Uterine activity was present in all patients 20 to 30 minutes after the PGF 2α instillation and activity continued with increasing amplitude of contractions and stable frequency of contractions throughout the abortion. Only two patients did not abort within 24 hours; they were, therefore, given an intravenous infusion of oxytocin and both aborted subsequently without complications. The side effects in this series were minimal and the average postabortion bleeding was approximately 150 to 200 ml. The mean abortion time and the outcome in this series of prostaglandin-induced midtrimester abortions compared favorably with the results of saline-induced abortions.
High electric field strength two‐dimensional peptide separations using a microfluidic device

New instrumentation has been developed to improve the resolution, efficiency, and speed of microfluidic 2D separations using MEKC coupled to high field strength CE. Previously published 2D separation instrumentation [Ramsey, J. D. et al., Anal. Chem. 2003, 75, 3758-3764] from our group was limited to a maximum potential difference of 8.4 kV, resulting in an electric field strength of only approximately 200 V/cm in the first dimension. The circuit described in this report has been designed to couple a higher voltage supply with a rapidly switching, lower voltage supply to utilize the best features of each. Voltages applied in excess of 20 kV lead to high electric field strength separations in both dimensions, increasing the separation resolution, efficiency, and peak capacity while reducing the required analysis time. Detection rates as high as six peptides per second (based on total analysis time) were observed for a model protein tryptic digest separation. Additionally, higher applied voltages used in conjunction with microfluidic chips with longer length channels maintained higher electric field strengths and produced peak capacities of over 4000 for some separations. Total separation time in these longer channel devices was comparable to that obtained in short channels at low field strength; however, resolving power improved approximately threefold.
Bone mass and soy isoflavones in socially housed, premenopausal macaques

BACKGROUND Soy consumption is associated with a lower incidence of hip fracture in Asian than in Western women, an effect often attributed to estrogen-like compounds (isoflavones) in soy. It is not known whether premenopausal soy exposure initiated in adulthood can increase bone mass and thereby reduce fracture risk. OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine whether a high-isoflavone soy diet influences bone mass in soy-naive, premenopausal cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). DESIGN Ninety-four skeletally mature females were randomly assigned to consume diets whose protein content came from either high-isoflavone soy or casein and lactalbumin. Animals were socially housed. Bone mass and circulating isoflavone concentrations were measured at baseline and 19 and 31 mo after the start of treatment; bone biomarkers were measured at baseline and 31 mo. RESULTS There were no significant differences at any timepoint in whole-body bone mineral content between casein-fed (112.5 +/- 2.1, 119.2 +/- 1.9, and 120.7 +/- 2.1 g) and soy-fed (117.2 +/- 2.1, 122.4 +/- 2.0, and 125.4 +/- 2.3 g; P=0.12) monkeys. Similar results were seen for spinal bone mineral density (casein-fed: 0.46 +/- 0.01, 0.50 +/- 0.01, and 0.52 +/- 0.01 g/cm(2); soy-fed: 0.47 +/- 0.01, 0.51 +/- 0.01, and 0.52 +/- 0.01 g/cm(2); P=0.30) and bone biomarker measurements-bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (soy-fed: 82.3 +/- 4.1 and 63.2 +/- 3.4 ng/mL; casein-fed: 94.1 +/- 4.5 and 61.7 +/- 4.3 ng/mL; P=0.22) and C-terminal crosslink of type 1 collagen (soy-fed: 0.944 +/- 0.06 and 0.89 +/- 0.08 nmol/L; casein-fed: 0.97 +/- 0.07 and 0.78 +/- 0.06 nmol/L; P=0.20). CONCLUSION A soy diet high in isoflavones does not significantly affect bone characteristics in initially soy-naive premenopausal monkeys.
Prostaglandin A1 and E1 inhibit the plating efficiency and proliferation of murine melanoma cells (Cloudman S-91) in soft agar

Abstract PGA1 and PGE1 reduced the plating efficiency and inhibited proliferation of Cloudman S-91 murine melanoma cells in a dose dependent manner, as assessed by their effects on colony formation in soft agar. PGF2α did not reduce plating efficiency but was as effective as PGA1 in raising cAMP and cGMP levels. This data suggests that the inhibition of Cloudman S-91 murine melanoma cell growth occurs via a non-cyclic nucleotide mechanism.
Murine ferritin heavy chain: isolation and characterization of a functional gene.

Abstract A mouse liver genomic library screened with a full-length cDNA encoding murine ferritin heavy chain (mFHC)[Torti et al., J. Biol. Chem. 263 (1988) 12638–12644] yielded a functional genomic clone m FHC . The genomic clone isolated included a region of approximately 3 kb containing four exons and three introns. Sequence comparisons of the mouse genomic clone with other genomic clones from rat, human and chicken showed a high degree of similarity among species in the coding regions. Introns and flanking sequences were less conserved. However, comparison of m FHC promoter elements with FHC genes from other species revealed common elements. Analysis of the genomic structure of FHC suggested the presence of pseudogenes. S1 nuclease analysis, however, confirmed that this mouse clone, when transfected into human MRC-5 fibroblasts, was transcribed, indicating that this clone contains an FHC functional gene.
Learning continuance of accounting information systems an expectation-confirmation perspective

This study examines factors that contribute to the intention to study accounting information systems (AIS) after one's formal course training is over. A modified form of the expectation-confirmation theory (ECT) is applied, but deeper insights are uncovered after considering perceived AIS capabilities as a moderator. ECT's construct relationship is mostly confirmed, except that perceived usefulness is not statistically significant as a predictor for satisfaction. The main sources of motivation for the respondent group with less confidence in their own AIS capabilities are confirmation and usefulness. The group with much AIS confidence is motivated to continue their learning more by confirmation and satisfaction. Further academic and managerial implications are provided.
Winning the Battle, Losing the War: The Noncurative “Curative” Resection for Stage I Adenocarcinoma of the Lung

Background Understanding recurrence of surgically "cured" stage I adenocarcinoma of the lung is important given expected benefits of adjuvant therapy for advanced disease. Therefore, this study characterizes cancer recurrence and its risks, assesses survival after recurrence, and contextualizes overall survival and its risks. Methods From 1991 to 2001, 285 patients underwent resection of stage I adenocarcinoma (pathologic) of the lung. They were followed cross-sectionally for evidence of cancer recurrence (mean follow-up 7.7 ± 4.3 years). Risk factors for recurrence and all-cause mortality were sought among demographic, medical history, cancer pathology, and surgical procedure data. Results Cancer recurred in 99 patients. Freedom from recurrence was 92%, 72%, and 57% at 1, 5, and 10 years. Two phases of risk were found: an early hazard phase and an essentially constant late phase after 5 years, with recurrences equally distributed. Early recurrence was associated with larger tumor size in patients who did not undergo mediastinal lymphadenectomy (p = 0.004). Late recurrence was more common in patients with higher pack-years of smoking (p = 0.007). Survival after recurrence was 40% and 17% at 1 and 5 years. Overall survival (65% and 40% at 5 and 10 years) depended not only on variables related to cancer recurrence, but also those of vitality (older age, pulmonary dysfunction, postpneumonectomy state). Conclusions Stage I adenocarcinoma of the lung recurs. Identifying high-risk patients will simplify decision making for adjuvant therapy and surveillance. Thorough mediastinal lymphadenectomy dissociates tumor size as a predictor of survival and may itself provide an important survival benefit.
Another look at anti-scalping laws: Theory and evidence

This paper investigates the impact of anti-scalping laws on the face value of tickets in professional football and baseball. Previous theoretical models have suggested that scalpers might cause an increase in prices at the ticket window because they represent an increase in demand. This paper provides a model in which ticket scalping has an ambiguous impact on ticket window prices, making the actual impact an empirical question. Empirical analysis suggest that in cities with anti-scalping laws average per-game season ticket prices are approximately $2 greater in baseball and $10 greater in football. Anti-scalping laws actually increase team revenues, as the laws have no adverse effect on attendance. Thus, event promoters might have sufficient pecuniary incentive to tacitly or explicitly support anti-scalping legislation.
Water makes it hydrophobic: contraphilic wetting for polyurethanes with soft blocks having semifluorinated and 5,5-dimethylhydantoin side chains.

A series of polyurethanes with novel copolymer soft blocks display a new surface phenomenon, contraphilic wetting, in which the dry surface is hydrophilic and the wetted surface is hydrophobic. A precursor polymer was prepared with copolymer soft blocks containing semifluorinated (trifluoroethoxy, 3FOx, or pentafluoropropoxy, 5FOx) and bromomethyl functional pendant groups with 2:1, 1:1, and 1:2 semifluorinated/bromomethyl ratios. The hard block consists of isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) and 1,4-butanediol (BD). 5,5-Dimethylhydantoin was introduced by the substitution of Br via reaction-on-polymer. The composition, structure, and percent of 5,5-dimethylhydantoin substitution for both the precursor and the 5,5-dimethylhydantoin-substituted polyurethanes were analyzed by 1H NMR. The difference between the advancing contact angle on the wetted surface and that on the dry surface (ΔC) is highest (38°) for the polyurethane with the highest ratio of semifluorinated/hydantoin soft block side chains. A model is p...
Consumption Insurance: An Evaluation of Risk-Bearing Systems in Low-Income Economies

The hypothesis of full risk sharing can be taken to data from low-income countries and evaluate formal and informal financial systems. In many contexts, idiosyncratic risks are high, so credit/insurance arrangements could be beneficial. Statistical tests reveal that households in southern India take advantage of these possibilities; villages in Cote d'Ivoire and countries in Thailand do not do as well. The paper includes an empirical description of the devices used to smooth consumption and a theoretical discussion of private information and incentives on ideal operating systems. The full information and mechanism design frameworks provide benchmarks for policy analysis.
A two-dimensional bimetallic oxide constructed from ζ-octamolybdate clusters and Ag(I)-tpyprz cationic polymer components (tpyprz = tetra-2-pyridylpyrazine)

Abstract The hydrothermal reaction of Na2MoO4, Ag(CH3CO2), tetra-2-pyridylpyrazine (tpyprz), HF and water at 170 °C for 48 h yields [{Ag4(tpyprz)2(H2O)}Mo8O26] (1) as colorless plates. The structure of 1 is a two-dimensional network, constructed from {Ag4(tpyprz)2(H2O)}4n+n chains linked through ζ- Mo 8 O 26 4 − clusters. The chains exhibit three distinct Ag(I) environments: a four coordinate {AgN4} site, a three coordinate {AgN2Oaqua} site, and four coordinate {AgN3Ooxo} site which links to the molybdate cluster. Each cluster is connected by bridging oxo-groups to two silver/tpyprz chains to form the network architecture. Crystal data: C24H17Ag2Mo4N6O13.5, fw 1204.94, orthorhombic P c c n , a = 20.8234 ( 9 ) A , b = 14.5076 ( 6 ) A , c = 20.3537 ( 9 ) A , V = 6148.9 ( 5 ) A 3 , Z = 8 , D calc = 2.603 g cm −3 .
Live cell lithography: using optical tweezers to create synthetic tissue.

We demonstrate a new method for creating synthetic tissue that has the potential to capture the three-dimensional (3D) complexity of a multi-cellular organism with submicron precision. Using multiple laminar fluid flows in a microfluidic network, we convey cells to an assembly area where multiple, time-shared optical tweezers are used to organize them into a complex array. The cells are then encapsulated in a 30 μm × 30 μm × 45 μm volume of photopolymerizable hydrogel that mimicks an extra-cellular matrix. To extend the size, shape and constituency of the array without loss of viability, we then step to an adjacent location while maintaining registration with the reference array, and repeat the process. Using this step-and-repeat method, we formed a heterogeneous array of E. coli genetically engineered with a lac switch that is functionally linked to fluorescence reporters. We then induced the array using ligands through a microfluidic network and followed the space-time development of the fluorescence to evaluate viability and metabolic activity.
Differentially Expressed MicroRNAs in Chondrocytes from Distinct Regions of Developing Human Cartilage

There is compelling in vivo evidence from reports on human genetic mutations and transgenic mice that some microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important functional role in regulating skeletal development and growth. A number of published in vitro studies also point toward a role for miRNAs in controlling chondrocyte gene expression and differentiation. However, information on miRNAs that may regulate a specific phase of chondrocyte differentiation (i.e. production of progenitor, differentiated or hypertrophic chondrocytes) is lacking. To attempt to bridge this knowledge gap, we have investigated miRNA expression patterns in human embryonic cartilage tissue. Specifically, a developmental time point was selected, prior to endochondral ossification in the embryonic limb, to permit analysis of three distinct populations of chondrocytes. The location of chondroprogenitor cells, differentiated chondrocytes and hypertrophic chondrocytes in gestational day 54–56 human embryonic limb tissue sections was confirmed both histologically and by specific collagen expression patterns. Laser capture microdissection was utilized to separate the three chondrocyte populations and a miRNA profiling study was carried out using TaqMan® OpenArray® Human MicroRNA Panels (Applied Biosystems®). Here we report on abundantly expressed miRNAs in human embryonic cartilage tissue and, more importantly, we have identified miRNAs that are significantly differentially expressed between precursor, differentiated and hypertrophic chondrocytes by 2-fold or more. Some of the miRNAs identified in this study have been described in other aspects of cartilage or bone biology, while others have not yet been reported in chondrocytes. Finally, a bioinformatics approach was applied to begin to decipher developmental cellular pathways that may be regulated by groups of differentially expressed miRNAs during distinct stages of chondrogenesis. Data obtained from this work will serve as an important resource of information for the field of cartilage biology and will enhance our understanding of miRNA-driven mechanisms regulating cartilage and endochondral bone development, regeneration and repair.
Rethinking software design in participation cultures

The research activities in software engineering at the Center for LifeLong Learning & Design (L3D) in the past have been grounded in the basic assumption that important aspects of software engineering are best understood as human-centered design activities. Some of the major objectives were to support designers with domain-oriented design environments, allowing them to interact at the problem domain level and to frame activities and artifacts based on an evolutionary approach. A fundamental shift occurring over the last few years is the formation of participation cultures enhanced and supported by a change from an industrialized information economy (specialized in producing finished goods to be consumed passively) to a cyber-enabled networked information economy (in which all people are provided with the means to participate actively in personally meaningful problems). Some of the implications of this fundamental shift for software engineering, including meta-design, lessons learned from open source software, and distribution and diversity in communities, are explored, and their implications for the "automate/informate" perspectives are briefly discussed.
Early-onset drug use and risk of later drug problems

Prior research has suggested that among illicit drug users there is an increased risk of drug abuse or dependence problems associated with earlier onset of illicit drug taking. This study examined whether the observed association might be understood best as the result of a process by which earlier onset users accumulate more time during which they can develop a drug problem (that is, more time since first illicit drug taking). Survival data analysis was employed to investigate this issue, with self-report data from 1525 illicit drug using individuals, all of whom were 18-24-year-old participants in the multi-site collaborative Epidemiologic Catchment Area Program. In the first year after initial illicit drug use, there was no appreciable variation in the estimated risk of developing a drug problem. However, with passage of some 5-7 years after initial use, the estimated risk of developing drug problems became clearly greater for youths whose drug taking had started during the pre-adolescent and very early adolescent years. The previously reported relationship between early-onset drug use and subsequent drug problems was not, therefore, an artifact of time. It is possible that duration of drug use should be considered as one 'mechanism' by which early-onset drug users experience greater risk of drug problems, but there also are other interpretations to be investigated in future research.
FPGA-based multi-channel fluorescence lifetime analysis of Fourier multiplexed frequency-sweeping lifetime imaging

We report a fast non-iterative lifetime data analysis method for the Fourier multiplexed frequency-sweeping confocal FLIM (Fm-FLIM) system [ Opt. Express 22, 10221 ( 2014)]. The new method, named R-method, allows fast multi-channel lifetime image analysis in the system’s FPGA data processing board. Experimental tests proved that the performance of the R-method is equivalent to that of single-exponential iterative fitting, and its sensitivity is well suited for time-lapse FLIM-FRET imaging of live cells, for example cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) level imaging with GFP-Epac-mCherry sensors. With the R-method and its FPGA implementation, multi-channel lifetime images can now be generated in real time on the multi-channel frequency-sweeping FLIM system, and live readout of FRET sensors can be performed during time-lapse imaging.
Fire Whirl Evolution Observed during a Valley Wind-Sea Breeze Reversal

This observational study documented the atmospheric environment of a prescribed fire conducted in a narrow valley when a small fire whirl developed during a mesoscale wind reversal. Based on analysis of in situ meteorological measurements, it is hypothesized that the fire whirl formed due to the presence of strong vertical wind shear caused by the interaction of a sea breeze front with a weaker up-valley wind. Vorticity generated by the interaction of the wind shear and the fire front was estimated to be ~0.2 s−1. Peak turbulence kinetic energy was caused by the wind shear rather than the buoyancy generated by the fire front. It was also found that the convective Froude number itself may not be sufficient for fire whirl prediction since it is less relevant to the near-surface boundary-layer turbulence generated by environmental wind shear. Observations from this case study indicate that even low-intensity prescribed fires can result in the formation of fire whirls due to mesoscale changes in the ambient atmospheric environment.
COMPARISONS OF MENTAL AND MOTOR TEST SCORES FOR AGES 1-15 MONTHS BY SEX, BIRTH ORDER, RACE, GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION, AND EDUCATION OF PARENTS.

the study population is found to be representative of the United States., Comparisons of means and standard deviations of total scores for each of the 15 months were made for a series of subsamples of the population. No differences in scores were found for either scale between boys and girls, first-born and later-born, education of either father or mother, or geographic residence. No differences were found between Negroes and whites on the Mental Scale, but the Negro babies tended consistently to score above the whites on the Motor Scale. Scores for a small sample of Puerto Rican babies were the same as for the total white sample. In a discussion of the interpretation of these findings, emphasis was placed on the need to study in careful detail the development of mental processes in the second year of life. Within this period evidently will be found the explanation of the socioeconomic and ethnic differences in mental functioning that are repeatedly found for children of 4 years and older.
Resolution and Noise in Fourier-Transform Spectroscopy*

Resolution and noise in Fourier transform spectrometer, considering mechanical limitations and diffraction effects
Nampt/visfatin/PBEF affects expression of myogenic regulatory factors and is regulated by interleukin-6 in chicken skeletal muscle cells

Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt/visfatin/PBEF) has been identified as a rate-limiting NAD(+) biosynthetic enzyme and an adipokine found in the circulation. Human and chicken skeletal muscles are reported to have the highest level of Nampt expression among various tissues whose functional significance remains undetermined. Expression of Nampt is regulated by interleukin-6 (IL-6), an essential cytokine for postnatal muscle growth in mammals. The objective of the current study was to characterize expression of Nampt in chicken (Gallus gallus) myogenic cells and to determine the effect of Nampt on expression of IL-6, myogenic transcription factors, and glucose uptake. We also sought to determine the effect of IL-6 on Nampt expression in chicken myogenic cells. Nampt mRNA and protein were identified in both myoblasts and myocytes, although expression did not differ between the two cell types. Treatment with recombinant human Nampt was found to decrease myoD and mrf4 expression but to increase myf5 expression in myocytes, while glucose uptake was unaffected. In response to treatment with recombinant Nampt, IL-6 expression in myocytes was increased at 24h but decreased when treated for 48 or 72 h. Forced over-expression of chicken Nampt cDNA significantly decreased myf5 expression in myoblasts. Treatment of myogenic cells with lower levels (1 ng.mL(-1)) of recombinant IL-6 increased Nampt expression, whereas a higher IL-6 concentration (100 ng.mL(-1)) decreased Nampt mRNA abundance. Collectively, these results demonstrate that Nampt, regulated in part by IL-6, alters the expression of key myogenic transcription factors and thereby may influence postnatal myogenesis.
Heating/melting of a semitransparent particle including radiation effects

The effect of internal absorption and emission of radiation on the heating and melting of a semitransparent solid particle has been theoretically studied by characterizing the local radiative transfer inside the particle. Different radiative models affecting the heating and melting processes are discussed in the paper. The study reveals that the melting rate of a particle is significantly enhanced by the internal absorption of radiation. For small particles, the interior temperature distributions in the solid phase are rather uniform throughout the melting process. From the numerical results obtained it is evident that the uniform volumetric absorption and emission of radiation model may be an acceptable approach for evaluating the melting rate of a spherical semitransparent particle if the computation time is of major concern.
Dose-dependent suppression of DNA synthesis in vitro as a predictor of clinical response in adult acute myeloblastic leukemia☆

We determined for 14 patients with acute myeloblastic leukemia, prior to therapy with an anthracycline-ara-C combination, the relationship of clinical response to dose-dependent DNA synthesis inhibition produced by each agent on each patient's cultured leukemic cells. Using a microculture system ara-C and adriamycin sensitivity (D2) was determined for each patient based upon each individual's dose response curve. The 9 patients achieving complete remission and one patient who died during induction had D2 values to both agents less than 7, while 4 non-responding patients had D2 values in excess of 9. Correlation of D2 levels with in vivo chemotherapy-induced bone marrow cytoreduction was noted for adriamycin (P < 0.005) and for ara-C (P = 0.1). A relationship between in vitro ara-C and adriamycin sensitivity (P < 0.05) suggests that they act upon similar leukemic cell populations. Inhibition of thymidine synthesis over a range of concentrations deserves further study as a rapid in vitro test for drug sensitivity in acute myeloblastic leukemia.
Working Successfully with Diverse Studentsand Communities The Community-Based Block Counselor Preparation Program

Pressing societal needs and professional guidelines call for multiculturally competent counselors who can successfully work with diverse individuals and communities. Using a mixed-methods case study, this article describes an innovative counselor preparation program that for 33 years has successfully prepared more than 800 counselors to work with diverse individuals and communities by supporting the development of counseling/professional skills, self-awareness, sensitivity to diversity, and social justice agency. This article reviews multicultural counseling literature that highlights the successes and challenges of teaching students about cultural diversity and oppression. It then elaborates on the Community-Based Block Program model and reports findings from three program assessments. It concludes with implications for counselor preparation programs.
Effect of controlled defects on the microwave transport and dielectric constant of tetrathiofulvalene–tetracyanoquinodimethane

The introduction of controlled disorder in TTF-TCNQ through irradiation provides information on the transport mechanism. The large changes in the magnitude and temperature dependence of the conductivity in the conducting regime are consistent with either 1d localization or pinning of CDW fluctuations by impurities. However, studies at low temperatures appear to be inconsistent with the localization ideas. Furthermore, the frequency dependence in the conducting regime at microwave frequencies suggests a substantial contribution of fluctuating CDW's to the low frequency transport. The introduction of controlled defects allows a separation of the low temperature conductivity into an intrinsic contribution plus a second contribution of impurity origin. Information on the frequency dependence of the intrinsic conductivity is obtained from comparison of the dc and microwave data. The results are interpreted in terms of soliton transport inhibited by the Larkin-Lee tunneling. Das Einbringen kontrollierter Fehlordnung in TTF-TCNQ mittels Bestrahlung liefert Information uber den Transportmechanismus. Die grosten Anderungen der Grose und Temperaturabhangigkeit der Leitfahigkeit im Leitfahigkeitsbereich sind konsistent entweder mit 1d-Lokalisierung oder Festsetzung von CDW-Fluktuationen durch Storstellen. Jedoch scheinen Untersuchungen bei tiefen Temperaturen inkonsistent mit Lokalisierungsvorstellungen zu sein. Daruberhinaus weist die Frequenzabhangigkeit im Leitfahigkeitsbereich bei Mikrowellenfrequenzen auf einen wesentlichen Anteil fluktuierender CDW's am Transport bei tiefen Frequenzen hin. Die Einfuhrung von kontrollierten Defekten erlaubt eine Separation der Tieftemperaturleitfahigkeit in einen Grundgitteranteil und einen zweiten Anteil mit Storstellenursprung. Informationen uber die Frequenzabhangigkeit der Intrinsicleitfahigkeit wird aus einem Vergleich der Gleichspannungs- und Mikrowellenwerte erhalten. Die Ergebnisse werden mit Solitonentransport erklart, der durch Larkin-Lee-Tunneln gehemmt ist.
Implementation of New Technology

New technology is dramatically changing the workplace in order to allow companies to increase efficiency, productivity, quality, safety, and overall profitability. An effective new technology implementation is necessary in order for companies to compete successfully in the global marketplace. Time and money wasted on unsuccessful and improper new technology implementation is counterproductive to the overall goal of improving the competitiveness and profitability of the company. Therefore this new technology challenges the current state of traditional implementation methods and techniques. To effectively utilize these new technologies it is best to consider all of the factors involved in the implementation process, such as: new technology characteristics, organization structure, task factors, and environmental characteristics, and most importantly the human elements involved. It is also recommended to utilize a cooperative approach to new technology implementation, which relies heavily on soliciting employ...
Nerve-Derived Sonic Hedgehog Defines a Niche for Hair Follicle Stem Cells Capable of Becoming Epidermal Stem Cells

In adult skin, stem cells in the hair follicle bulge cyclically regenerate the follicle, whereas a distinct stem cell population maintains the epidermis. The degree to which all bulge cells have equal regenerative potential is not known. We found that Sonic hedgehog (Shh) from neurons signals to a population of cells in the telogen bulge marked by the Hedgehog response gene Gli1. Gli1-expressing bulge cells function as multipotent stem cells in their native environment and repeatedly regenerate the anagen follicle. Shh-responding perineural bulge cells incorporate into healing skin wounds where, notably, they can change their lineage into epidermal stem cells. The perineural niche (including Shh) is dispensable for follicle contributions to acute wound healing and skin homeostasis, but is necessary to maintain bulge cells capable of becoming epidermal stem cells. Thus, nerves cultivate a microenvironment where Shh creates a molecularly and phenotypically distinct population of hair follicle stem cells.
Urinary growth hormone excretion rates in normal and acromegalic man: a critical appraisal of its potential clinical utility.

The assessment of growth hormone (GH) secretory status is often difficult because of the intermittent nature of GH release and resulting wide swings in plasma GH levels. Urinary GH excretion holds promise as an index of integrated plasma GH free of this limitation, but technical problems have prevented its use until recently. We adapted a recently developed method for accurately measuring GH and its various molecular forms in urine to the determination of GH excretion rates. The method involves diafiltration and immunoextraction of GH from urine, with monitoring of recovery and final quantification by radioimmunoassay. Twenty-four h GH excretion rates were determined in 30 normal adults (15 men and 15 women) and 4 acromegalic patients. They ranged from 1 to 81 ng/24 h in men, from 1 to 70 ng/24 h in women and from 87 to 1660 ng/24 h in acromegaly (medians = 8.7, 18.0 and 267 ng/24 h, respectively). Excretion rates varied widely, not only between subjects, but also within the same subject on different days. Women and younger subjects tended to excrete more GH than men and older subjects, although these trends were not statistically significant. Acromegalics excreted significantly more GH than normals (p < 0.001). Twelve normal subjects underwent simultaneous assessment of 24 h integrated plasma GH (sampling every 20 min) and urine GH excretion. Urine GH correlated weakly (r = 0.45) with integrated plasma GH. We conclude that 24 h urinary GH excretion may provide a useful, non-invasive means of assessing GH secretory status at the extremes of secretory abnormality (e.g., acromegaly), but that its inherent variability and wide normal range may limit its usefulness in milder forms of pituitary dysfunction.
Visual Model-Based Algorithms For Halftoning Images

The limitations of human vision provide the justification for design of systems for printing or display of halftone images that are perceived to be nearly identical to a continuous-tone original. Despite this fact, a review of existing halftone algorithms indicates that only limited use has been made of the extensive research on human vision. This review also emphasizes the common features of the many algorithms that have been proposed. It is suggested that iterative techniques may provide a means of incorporating a much more complete visual model within the halftoning algorithm.© (1981) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Mechanical properties of the stimulated papillary muscle in quick-release experiments

Abstract The behavior of heart muscle in the stimulated state is a subject of much controversy. A brief summary of the conclusions drawn by some investigators is given to bring the conflicts to focus. In 1970 Fung formulated the general problem incorporating Hill's three-elements model and Huxley's sliding element theory. This formalism is of general validity and is adopted here to study the papillary muscle behavior. Preliminary results obtained using quick-release technique are presented.
Focal adhesion kinase gene silencing promotes anoikis and suppresses metastasis of human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells

Abstract Background Inadequate or inappropriate cell-substrate contact triggers a subset of apoptotic cell death, termed anoikis. Resistance to anoikis is a characteristic of malignant cells that is associated with increased tumorigenesis and metastasis. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is an important regulator of cell survival and migration and cell cycle progression. We tested the hypothesis that FAK gene silencing would promote anoikis and reverse acquired anoikis resistance in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells. Methods FAK expression was assessed by Northern and Western blot analysis. Anoikis was induced in PANC1, BxPC3, MiaPaCa2, and MiaAR (an anoikis-resistant derivative of MiaPaCa2) with the use of polyHEMA culture. FAK expression was suppressed by RNA interference. Anoikis was detected by YO-PRO-1/propidium iodide staining and flow cytometry. Fluorometric caspase profiling was performed. Metastasis was assayed in a nude mouse orthotopic xenograft model. Results The cell lines that were tested showed marked variation in their anoikis resistance, greater resistance being associated with higher levels of FAK expression. FAK gene silencing promoted anoikis in all cell lines and reversed acquired anoikis resistance in MiaAR, which was associated with increased caspase activation. Suppression of FAK expression also inhibited metastasis in the nude mouse model. Conclusion FAK gene silencing suppresses anoikis resistance in pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells. FAK represents a potential target for novel antimetastatic therapies.
Self-Injury and Postvention: Responding to the Family in Crisis:

Postvention actions are commonly employed after completed suicides and suicide attempts but can be adapted to assist affected family members in dealing with other types of crisis. The authors adapt a postvention model to be applied to systemically working with families who have a member engaging in self-injurious behavior. Recommendations for counselors who work with youth who self-injure and their families are provided.