cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
AttentivU: A Biofeedback System for Real-time Monitoring and Improvement of Engagement

It is increasingly hard for adults and children alike to be attentive given the increasing amounts of information and distractions surrounding us. We have developed AttentivU: a device, in a socially acceptable form factor of a pair of glasses, that a person can put on in moments when he/she wants/needs to be attentive. The AttentivU glasses use electroencephalography (EEG) as well as Electrooculography (EOG) sensors to measure attention of a person in real-time and provide either audio or haptic feedback to the user when their attention is low, thereby nudging them to become engaged again. We have tested this device in workplace and classroom settings with over 80 subjects. We have performed experiments with people studying or working by themselves, viewing online lectures as well as listening to classroom lectures. The obtained results show that our device makes a person more attentive and produces improved learning and work performance outcomes.
Dependent Stress Mediates the Relation Between ADHD Symptoms and Depression

Objective: Depression and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are prevalent and highly comorbid. ADHD symptoms are associated with specific dependent (i.e., self-generated) stressors in children, and there is a strong link between dependent stress and depression. Despite continued comorbidity of ADHD and depressive symptoms into adulthood, it is unknown whether stress generation mediates the relation between ADHD and subsequent depressive symptoms in emerging adulthood, a period of heightened stress. Method: We tested this mediation model in a semester-long longitudinal study of 224 college students (aged 18-23 years). We additionally tested whether this model differed between inattentive versus hyperactive/impulsive ADHD symptoms given evidence that they vary in their relations to stress and depression. Results: Dependent stress mediated the association between total ADHD symptoms at baseline and later depressive symptoms; these effects were equivalent for inattentive versus hyperactive/impulsive ADHD symptoms. Conclusion: These findings suggest stress generation as a mechanism for increased depression in individuals with ADHD symptoms.
On the Theoretical Properties of Exchange Algorithm.

Exchange algorithm is one of the most popular extensions of Metropolis-Hastings algorithm to sample from doubly-intractable distributions. However, theoretical exploration of exchange algorithm is very limited. For example, natural questions like `Does exchange algorithm converge at a geometric rate?' or `Does the exchange algorithm admit a Central Limit Theorem?' have not been answered. In this paper, we study the theoretical properties of exchange algorithm, in terms of asymptotic variance and convergence speed. We compare the exchange algorithm with the original Metropolis-Hastings algorithm and provide both necessary and sufficient conditions for geometric ergodicity of the exchange algorithm, which can be applied to various practical applications such as exponential random graph models and Ising models. A central limit theorem for the exchange algorithm is also established. Meanwhile, a concrete example, involving the Binomial model with conjugate and non-conjugate priors, is treated in detail with sharp convergence rates. Our results justify the theoretical usefulness of the exchange algorithm.
Precision millimeter and submillimeter wave measurements of material properties

Dielectric measurement techniques developed over last twelve years are reviewed. Varieties of measurement techniques are necessary in order to cope with material problems such as absorption characteristics, size and thickness, shape and temperature and frequency coverage. Precision data are now required on absorption coefficient, refractive index, real and imaginary parts of dielectric permittivity and loss tangent for varieties of classes of materials over a wide frequency range for applications such as substrate, window and lens material, as dielectric waveguide, quarter wave plates, insulators and in integrated circuitry.
Fission fragment decay simulations with the CGMF code

Abstract The CGMF code implements the Hauser-Feshbach statistical nuclear reaction model to follow the de-excitation of fission fragments by successive emissions of prompt neutrons and γ rays. The Monte Carlo technique is used to facilitate the analysis of complex distributions and correlations among the prompt fission observables. Starting from initial configurations for the fission fragments in mass, charge, kinetic energy, excitation energy, spin, and parity, Y(A,Z,KE,U,J, π ), CGMF samples neutron and γ-ray probability distributions at each stage of the decay process, conserving energy, spin and parity. Nuclear structure and reaction input data from the RIPL3 library are used to describe fission fragment properties and decay probabilities. Characteristics of prompt fission neutrons, prompt fission γ rays, and independent fission yields can be studied consistently. Correlations in energy, angle and multiplicity among the emitted neutrons and γ rays can be easily analyzed as a function of the emitting fragments. In its current version, CGMF is limited to certain spontaneous fission reactions on Pu and Cf isotopes, as well as neutron-induced fission reactions up to 20 MeV on U, Np, and Pu isotopes. Program summary Program Title: CGMF 1.1 CPC Library link to program files: https://doi.org/10.17632/jrtt73npzw.1 Licensing provisions: BSD-3 clause Programming language: C++ Nature of problem: Modeling of fission fragment decay Solution method: Monte Carlo implementation of the Hauser-Feshbach statistical theory of nuclear reactions to describe the de-excitation of fission fragments on an event-by-event basis. Additional comments including restrictions and unusual features: spontaneous fission reactions for 238,240,242,244Pu and 252,254Cf; neutron-induced fission reactions from thermal up to 20 MeV for n+233,234,235,238U, n+237Np, and n+239,241Pu. Binary fission only (no ternary fission).
Detailed X-Ray Line Properties of Theta2 Ori A in Quiescence

We investigate X-ray emission properties of the peculiar X-ray source Theta2 Ori A in the Orion trapezium region using more than 500 ksec of HETGS spectral data in the quiescent state. The amount of exposure provides tight constraints on several important diagnostics involving O, Ne, Mg, and Si line flux ratios from He-like ion triplets, resonance line ratios of the H- and He-like lines and line widths. Accounting for the influence of the strong UV radiation field of the O9.7V star we can now place the He-like line origin well within two stellar radii of the O-star's surface. The lines are resolved with average line widths of 341+-38 km/s confirming a line origin relatively close to the stellar surface. In the framework of standard wind models this implies a rather weak, low opacity wind restricting wind shocks to temperatures not much larger than 2x10^6 K. The emission measure distribution of the X-ray spectrum, as reported previously, includes very high temperature components which are not easily explained in this framework. The X-ray properties are also not consistent with coronal emissions from an unseen low-mass companion nor with typical signatures from colliding wind interactions. The properties are more consistent with X-ray signatures observed in the massive Trapezium star Theta1 Ori C which has recently been successfully modeled with a magnetically confined wind model.
Making Migrants 'Il-Legible

In South Africa, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) – the department charged with managing migration – has struggled to control growing migration flows, particularly the increased demand on the asylum system. The DHA has both relied on and sought to undermine documentation attempts as part of its migration management efforts. These shifting practices reveal an official ambivalence toward grant- ing foreign migrants documents and the rights that accompany them. Ensuring that foreign migrants remain undocumented fulfils the DHA’s objective of facilitating their removal, but it undercuts the administration’s ability to know who is in the country, another expressed DHA goal. Examining two documentation schemes – the asylum system, and the three-month documentation programme targeting undocumented Zimbabweans – this article highlights these conflicting purposes. It explores the DHA’s administrative strategies and practices to withhold or deny documentation, and hence legal rights, to foreign migrants even when its stated goal is documenta- tion. Looking at the role that documentation plays in state administration, the article argues that the street-level organisational approach and its focus on implementation best captures the actions of the DHA, underscoring the ways in which street-level bureaucrats can influence documentation policy and practice by determining who gets access to documents.
Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Expressing Neurons of the Pontine Micturition Center Inhibit Volitional Micturition

Lower urinary tract or voiding disorders are prevalent across all ages and affect over 40% of adults over 40 years old leading to decreased quality of life and high healthcare costs. The pontine micturition center (PMC) contains a large population of neurons that co-localize the stress-related neuropeptide, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and project to neurons in the spinal cord to regulate micturition. How the PMC and CRH-expressing neurons in the PMC control volitional micturition is of critical importance for human voiding disorders. To investigate the specific role of these CRH-expressing PMC neurons, these neurons were optogenetically stimulated during in vivo cystometry in unanesthetized mice. Optogenetic activation of CRH-PMC neurons led to increased intermicturition interval and voided volume, similar to the altered voiding phenotype produced by social stress. These effects were eliminated by CRH-receptor 1 antagonist pretreatment. In a cyclophosphamide cystitis model of bladder overactivity, optogenetic stimulation of CRH-PMC neurons returned the voiding pattern to normal. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that CRH in PMC spinal projections has an inhibitory function on micturition and may be a potential therapeutic target for human disease states such as voiding postponement, urinary retention, and under- or over-active bladder.
Valvular regurgitation flow jet assessment using in vitro 4D flow MRI: Implication for mitral regurgitation.

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of four-dimensional (4D) flow MRI for direct assessment of peak velocity, flow volume, and momentum of a mitral regurgitation (MR) flow jets using an in vitro pulsatile jet flow phantom. We systematically investigated the impact of spatial resolution and quantification location along the jet on flow quantities with Doppler ultrasound as a reference for peak velocity. METHODS Four-dimensional flow MRI data of a pulsatile jet through a circular, elliptical, and 3D-printed patient-specific MR orifice model was acquired with varying spatial resolution (1.5-5 mm isotropic voxel). Flow rate and momentum of the jet were quantified at various axial distances (x = 0-50 mm) and integrated over time to calculate Voljet and MTIjet . In vivo assessment of Voljet and MTIjet was performed on 3 MR patients. RESULTS Peak velocities were comparable to Doppler ultrasound (3% error, 1.5 mm voxel), but underestimated with decreasing spatial resolution (-40% error, 5 mm voxel). Voljet was similar to regurgitant volume (RVol) within 5 mm, and then increased linearly with the axial distance (19%/cm) because of flow entrainment. MTIjet remained steady throughout the jet (2%/cm) as theoretically predicted. Four and 9 voxels across the jet were required to measure flow volume and momentum-time-integral within 10% error, respectively. CONCLUSION Four-dimensional flow MRI detected accurate peak velocity, flow rate, and momentum for in vitro MR-mimicking flow jets. Spatial resolution significantly impacted flow quantitation, which otherwise followed predictions of flow entrainment and momentum conservation. This study provides important preliminary information for accurate in vivo MR assessment using 4D flow MRI.
Feminist Family Therapy: A Casebook

Outlines the principles of feminist family therapy, challenges gender stereotyping, and discusses actual cases.
Galileo Probe Measurements of the Deep Zonal Winds of Jupiter

During the Galileo probe’s descent into the upper atmosphere of Jupiter, data from the six science instruments on the probe were transmitted to the orbiter for 57.5 minutes. Accurate measurements of the probe’s signal frequency, driven by an ultrastable oscillator (USO), enabled an accurate time history of the probe motions to be created. Removal from the frequency profile of known Doppler contributions, including the orbiter trajectory, the probe descent velocity, and the rotation of Jupiter, left a measurable frequency residual due to the horizontal and vertical winds of Jupiter, and probe spin and swing. Assumption of the dominance of the zonal horizontal winds allowed the frequency residuals to be inverted and resulted in the first in situ measurements of the deep zonal winds of Jupiter. It is found that beneath the cloud tops (about 5–700 mb) the winds are prograde, and rise rapidly to 170 m/s at 4 bars. Beyond 4 bars to the depth at which the link with the probe was lost, nearly 22 bars, the winds remain essentially constant and strong. When corrections for the effect of the adverse thermal environment on the probe USO frequency stability are included, the previously seen tendency for the zonal winds to increase at the deepest levels vanishes.
A review of learning with normal and altered sound-localization cues in human adults

Humans use several cues to determine the position of sound sources in space. Here we provide a review of the literature on how practice influences sound-localization performance in human adults. We divided this literature into two categories: adaptation to alterations in sound-localization cues and learning with normal, unaltered cues. For altered cues, partial adaptation has been reported with a variety of cue transformations, except in the extreme case in which the cues were reversed between the two ears. For normal cues, improvement has been observed in some but not all experiments, though the most recent data generally show learning. Thus, the reviewed data indicated that human adults can recalibrate, as well as refine the use of, sound-localization cues, and that training regimens can be developed to enhance sound-localization performance in individuals with normal and impaired localization abilities.
Real‐time inversion of GPS data for finite fault modeling and rapid hazard assessment

[1] Responses to recent great earthquakes and ensuing tsunamis in Sumatra, Chile, and Japan, with the resulting loss of life and damage to infrastructure demonstrate that our ability to ascertain the full extent of slip of catastrophic earthquakes and their tsunamigenic potential in the first minutes after the initiation of rupture is problematic. Regional GPS networks such as those in western North America and Japan are complementary to seismic networks by being able to directly measure displacements close to the source during large earthquakes in real time. We report on rapid modeling of two large earthquakes, the 2003 Mw 8.3 Tokachi-oki earthquake 100 km offshore Hokkaido Island using 356 GEONET stations and the 2010 Mw 7.2 El Mayor-Cucapah earthquake in northern Baja California using 95 CRTN stations in southern California about 75 km northwest of the epicenter. Working in a simulated real-time mode, we invert for finite fault slip in a homogeneous elastic half-space using Green's functions obtained from Okada's formulation. We compare two approaches: the first starts with a catalog of pre-defined faults, while the second uses a rapid centroid moment tensor solution to provide an initial estimate of the ruptured fault plane. In either case, we are able to characterize both earthquakes in less than two minutes, reducing the time necessary to obtain finite fault slip and moment magnitude for medium and greater earthquakes compared to traditional methods by an order of magnitude.
Regulation of Th2 Cytokine Expression in NKT Cells: Unconventional Use of Stat6, GATA-3, and NFAT2

NKT cells are unique in that they can produce high levels of both Th1 and Th2 cytokines, yet little is known about how NKT cells control the transcription of Th2 cytokines. The expression of IL-4 by NKT cells is independent of the Th2-associated transcription factor Stat6. We have found that Stat6 is critical for the expression of IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13 by NKT cells. However, the Th2 cell-associated transcription factor GATA-3, normally induced by Stat6 activation, is expressed at low levels in NKT cells. CD4+ NKT cells are highly enriched for Th2 cytokine expression compared with CD4- NKT cells, and we searched for transcription factors that are up-regulated in CD4+ NKT cells that could control Th2 cytokine expression. We found that the NFAT family member NFAT2 is selectively increased in CD4+ NKT cells. We tested the roles of NFAT2 and also GATA-3 in Th2 cytokine expression by retrovirus-mediated gene transduction into NKT cells and nonpolarized conventional T cells. Expression of NFAT2 increased the expression of IL-4 in both NKT cells and conventional T cells, and NFAT2 activated IL-10 in conventional T cells but not in NKT cells. GATA-3 strongly activated IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 expression in conventional T cells but had comparatively weak effects on these cytokines in NKT cells. Thus, NFAT2, GATA-3, and Stat6 have surprisingly different roles in NKT cells than in conventional T cells. We propose that one mechanism by which CD4+ NKT cells express IL-4 independent of Stat6 is via increased NFAT2 activity.
Predicting Elections: Considering Tools to Pool the Polls

Surveys have long been critical tools for understanding elections and forecasting their results. As the number of election surveys has increased in prevalence, researchers, journalists, and standalone political bloggers have sought to learn from the wealth of information released. This paper explores three central strategies for pooling surveys and other information to better understand both the state of an election and what can be expected when voters head to the polls. Aggregation, predictive modeling, and hybrid models are assessed as ways of improving on the results of individual surveys. For each method, central questions, key choices, applications, and considerations for use are discussed. Trade-offs in choices between pooling strategies are considered, and the accuracies of each set of strategies for forecasting results in 2012 are compared. Although hybrid models have the potential to most accurately pool election information and make predictions, the simplicity of aggregations and the theory-testing capacity of predictive models can sometimes prove more valuable.
Examining the Use of Model-Based Work Instructions in the Aviation Maintenance Environment

A fundamental tenet of product lifecycle management (PLM) environments is the use of high-fidelity, 3D product models. The capability to create models with high degrees of fidelity to the physical world has driven companies to extract as much benefit and use from these digital assets as possible throughout the design, production, and support stages of the lifecycle. This is particularly apparent in the aviation industry where aircraft lifecycles routinely reach 80 years or longer. As the aviation industry migrates to the use of 3D model-based communications mechanisms in lieu of 2D drawings, multiple factors will impact the use of digital model-based work instructions, including the device, the form of the product model data, and levels of detail in geometry and interactivity. This paper will present a series of short studies conducted over the last three years using novice university students and expert university staff aircraft mechanics to evaluate the use of model-based work instructions in a general aviation maintenance environment. The results indicate that varying levels of detail and levels of interactivity have an effect on number of errors, time on task, and mental workload.
Historia Mathematica: 25 Years/Context and Content

Abstract This year marks the completion of the first quarter-century ofHistoria Mathematica, which initially appeared exactly 25 years ago, in February of 1974, under the editorship of Kenneth O. May. The brief survey presented here is intended to illuminate the context of the journal within the history of periodicals for the history of mathematics (dating back to 1855 when Olry Terquem launched theBulletin de bibliographie, d'histoire et de biographie mathematiquesin Paris). The origins ofHistoria Mathematicaand its connections to the international community of historians of mathematics on the one hand and to mathematicians on the other are also discussed.Copyright 1999 Academic Press. La revue,Historia Mathematica(HM), apparut en fevrier 1974, il y a vingt-cinq ans cette annee, sous la direction de Kenneth O. May. L'etude presentee ci-dessous cherche a situerHMdans le contexte du developpement historique des revues devouees a l'histoire des mathematiques, dont la premiere fut leBulletin de bibliographie, d'histoire et de biographie mathematiquesfonde a Paris en 1855 par Olry Terquem. Les origines d'HMy sont discutees aussi, ainsi que les liens entre la revue et la communaute internationale d'historiens des mathematiques d'une part et la communaute mathematique internationale d'autre part.
Fictive Temperature and the Glassy State

Within the glass science community, it is common to describe the state of a glass in terms of a fictive temperature or a distribution of fictive temperatures. However, a number of different definitions of fictive temperature are being practiced in the field. Based on the previous literature, at least three definitions are possible: (a) microscopic, which entails a mapping of the nonequilibrium glassy structure to comparable equilibrium liquid structures; (b) macroscopic, by representing the property values of a glass in terms of equilibrium states with equivalent configurational property values; and (c) kinetic, where the fictive temperatures are used to represent the various relaxation modes within the glass. Of these, the first, microscopic definition offers the possibility of writing a simplified statistical mechanical model of the nonequilibrium glassy state in terms of a linear combination of equilibrium liquid states. However, in this paper, we show that the microscopic physics of a glass cannot, in general, be described in this manner. The fictive temperature description of the glassy state is rigorous only under special circumstances, such as the case of an infinitely fast quench through the glass transition regime. Nevertheless, the microscopic definition of fictive temperature can provide a reasonable description of ensemble-averaged state properties such as enthalpy and molar volume, where there is a cancellation of errors. The concept of fictive temperature distribution cannot, however, capture accurately the fluctuations in enthalpy and molar volume in the glassy state. We also show that fictive temperature mapping does not provide an accurate description of the low-temperature dynamics of glass. An alternative description of the glassy state in terms of an enthalpy landscape can account for the true statistical mechanics of the glassy state without relying on any notion of fictive temperature.
Collocation Method for Finite Length Squeeze Film Dampers With Variable Clearance

Utilisation de la methode de collocation pour l'etude d'un amortisseur a film comprime de longueur finie avec un jeu variable
The Tensile Behavior of a Ni3Al-Based Composite with TiC Reinforcement

The tensile properties of a powder processed intermetallic matrix composite (IMC) and a similarly processed matrix alloy were investigated in the temperature range 298–1273K. The matrix alloy utilized in the study was the advanced nickel-aluminide IC-221 (Ni-16Al-8Cr-1Zr-0.05B). The composites contained 25 vol% TiC particulate reinforcement. The specific modulus of the composites was 20–30% higher than that of typical Ni-base superalloys. The yield strength of the composites were 10–20% greater than that of the matrix at all test temperatures. However, the composites exhibited lower ductility than the matrix. SEM fractography revealed that tensile failure occurred at the matrix/particulate interface. However, remnants of the matrix was observed on TiC particles on the fracture surface, suggesting good matrix/particle bonding. The strengths of the composites were very competitive with Ni-base superalloys.
Drawing on the benefits of RFID and bluetooth technologies

The advantages of RFID include a no line of sight requirement, long read range, ability of tags to withstand harsh environment, multiple tag read/write, and if utilized efficiently it can contribute significantly to improved efficiency and cost reduction in relevant engineering applications. Similarly, Bluetooth technology in addition to its low cost, offers the advantage of using a standard protocol to achieve wireless transmission with low interference and low energy consumption. This paper focuses on the integration of these two technologies and proposes a novel approach to the automation of parking spaces identification. A prototype of the proposed design is implemented and tested with favorable results.
Family Relations Test responses of retarded readers: reliability and comparative data.

Summary The Family Relations Test (FRT) was administered to 46 retarded readers and readministered after a 3-week interval. Test-retest reliabilities were in the .70s, .80s, and .90s for major response classifications. Responses of the retarded readers were similar in configuration to those reported for other clinic groups and normal Ss but not to response patterns of institutionalized emotionally disturbed children. Future research may need to consider children's perceptions of family relationships in the context of parental and sibling data. Specific tactics for future research are suggested.
Solubilization and functional reconstitution of a chloride channel from Torpedo californica electroplax.

Chloride channels were detergent-extracted fromTorpedo electroplax plasma membrane vesicles and reconstituted into liposomes by rapid detergent removal and a freeze-thawsonication procedure. Concentrative uptake of36Cl−, driven by a Cl− gradient was used to determine conductance properties of reconstituted channels. Chloride flux assayed by this method is strongly selective for Cl− over cations, is blocked by SCN−, inactivated by treatment with DIDS, and exhibits an anion selectivity sequence Cl−>Br−>F−>SO 4 2− , as does the voltagegated Cl− channel fromTorpedo observed in planar lipid bilayers. The channels are localized to the noninnervated face of the electrocyte, and a novel trapped-volume method is used to estimate a channel density on the order of 500 pmol/mg protein. An initial fractionation of the membrane extract by anion exchange chromatography yields fivefold enrichment of the channel activity.
Auditory and Auditory-Visual Perception of Clear and Conversational Speech

Research has shown that speaking in a deliberately clear manner can improve the accuracy of auditory speech recognition. Allowing listeners access to visual speech cues also enhances speech understanding. Whether the nature of information provided by speaking clearly and by using visual speech cues is redundant has not been determined. This study examined how speaking mode (clear vs. conversational) and presentation mode (auditory vs. auditory-visual) influenced the perception of words within nonsense sentences. In Experiment 1, 30 young listeners with normal hearing responded to videotaped stimuli presented audiovisually in the presence of background noise at one of three signal-to-noise ratios. In Experiment 2, 9 participants returned for an additional assessment using auditory-only presentation. Results of these experiments showed significant effects of speaking mode (clear speech was easier to understand than was conversational speech) and presentation mode (auditory-visual presentation led to better performance than did auditory-only presentation). The benefit of clear speech was greater for words occurring in the middle of sentences than for words at either the beginning or end of sentences for both auditory-only and auditory-visual presentation, whereas the greatest benefit from supplying visual cues was for words at the end of sentences spoken both clearly and conversationally. The total benefit from speaking clearly and supplying visual cues was equal to the sum of each of these effects. Overall, the results suggest that speaking clearly and providing visual speech information provide complementary (rather than redundant) information.
Spin and spectral signatures of polaron pairs in π-conjugated polymers

We have studied polaron pair photoexcitations in a variety of {pi}-conjugated polymer films by photoinduced absorption (PA) and optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR). Both luminescent and nonluminescent polymers have been studied. An exchange interaction between polarons broadens their magnetic resonance spectrum, permitting the unambiguous identification of the polaron pair species by ODMR. Both isotropic and anisotropic exchange interactions have been observed. An isotropic exchange interaction broadens the spin-(1)/(2) resonance associated with polarons, whereas an anisotropic exchange interaction gives rise to both full-field and half-field powder patterns. We have successfully modeled the observed spin-(1)/(2) ODMR spectra and estimate the strength of the isotropic exchange interaction I. An anisotropic exchange interaction has been observed in C{sub 60}-doped 2,5-dioctyloxy poly(p-phenylene vinylene) and cis-rich polyacetylene. Both polarons and polaron pairs are characterized by two absorption bands. However, the high-energy PA band of polaron pairs is blueshifted with respect to that of isolated polarons and the low-energy PA band of polaron pairs is relatively weak. We have also observed neutral soliton pair excitations in polymers with degenerate ground states. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}
The Metalloprotease ADAM12 Regulates the Effector Function of Human Th17 Cells

A key modulator of immune homeostasis, TGFβ has an important role in the differentiation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and IL-17-secreting T cells (Th17). How TGFβ regulates these functionally opposing T cell subsets is not well understood. We determined that an ADAM family metalloprotease called ADAM12 is specifically and highly expressed in both Tregs and CCR6+ Th17 cells. ADAM12 is induced in vitro upon differentiation of naive T cells to Th17 cells or IL-17-secreting Tregs. Remarkably, silencing ADAM12 expression in CCR6+ memory T cells enhances the production of Th17 cytokines, similar to suppressing TGFβ signaling. Further, ADAM12 knockdown in naive human T cells polarized towards Th17/Treg cells, or ectopically expressing RORC, greatly enhances IL-17-secreting cell differentiation, more potently then inhibiting TGFβ signals. Together, our findings reveal a novel regulatory role for ADAM12 in Th17 cell differentiation or function and may have implications in regulating their aberrant responses during immune pathologies.
Increased locus coeruleus glutamate levels are associated with naloxone-precipitated withdrawal from butorphanol in the rat.

Extracellular fluid levels of glutamate were measured in the locus coeruleus during butorphanol (a mixed agonist at μ-, δ-, and κ-opioid receptors) withdrawal by using microdialysis in conscious butorphanol-dependent Sprague-Dawley rats. Guide cannulae were implanted chronically and rats were given intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) infusions of butorphanol (26 nmol/l μl/hr) or saline (1 μl/hr) for 3 days. Microdialysis probes (2 mm tip) were inserted into the locus coeruleus 24 hr before precipitation of withdrawal by i.c.v. injection of naloxone (48 nmol/5 μl). A separate series of rats was rendered dependent by peripheral injection of butorphanol (20 mg/kg, s.c., b.i.d.) for 5 days and naloxone (5 mg/kg, i.p.) was given to precipitate withdrawal. Single injections of butorphanol (26 nmol/5 μl, i.c.v.) had no effect on the extracellular fluid levels of glutamate, compared to rats injected with vehicle. Behavioral evidence of withdrawal was detected following naloxone challenge in butorphanol-dependent rats (both i.c.v. and s.c. models), but not in nondependent, vehicle-treated rats. Significant increases (P<0.05) in levels of glutamate were noted after naloxone-precipitated withdrawal only in the butorphanol group. The glutamate levels in the locus coeruleus increased from 8.37±2.01 before, to 21.93±4.58 μM in the first 15 min sample following i.c.v. injections of 48 nmol/5 μl naloxone and from 10.84±1.74 before, to 26.01±6.19 μM in the 15–30 min sample following i.p. injections of 5 mg/kg naloxone in the butorphanol-dependent rats, respectively. These results provide direct evidence to support the role of excitatory amino acids within the locus coeruleus in butorphanol withdrawal.
The effect of hormones on phosphorylase activity in skeletal muscle.

CORTISONE is reported to increase glycogen storage in rabbit muscle and inhibit the activity of the enzyme phosphorylase which catalyzes reversibly the conversion of glucose-1-phosphate to glycogen (1). Epinephrine increases or maintains this enzyme activity, depending on conditions, in the isolated rat diaphragm (2). In an attempt to elucidate some unexplained interactions of these hormones in regulating muscle glycogen storage (3, 4), the following study was made on the effect of these hormones on phosphorylase activity in rat skeletal muscle.
A Cost-Effective Wireless Sensor Network System for Indoor Air Quality Monitoring Applications

Abstract Indoor air pollution has become a serious issue affecting public health. An indoor air quality monitoring system helps in the detection and improvement of indoor air quality. The monitoring systems presently available are very expensive. In this paper, we present a low-cost indoor air quality monitoring wireless sensor network system developed using Arduino, XBee modules, and micro gas sensors. The system that we have developed is capable of collecting six air quality parameters from different locations simultaneously. We have also developed a linear least square estimation-based method for sensor calibration and measurement data conversion. The performance and usefulness of the system are demonstrated by comparing measurement results of our system and a professional-grade air quality measurement device.
Low-cost, inflatable, lighter-than-air remote surveillance system

The force that is able to obtain the greatest amount of information will dominate tomorrow's battlefields. Although battlefield situation information can come from a number of sources, one particularly important segment of intelligence gathering is aerial surveillance. For the small, lightly armed unit in the field, the location and force structure of local enemy troops is critically important. Systems Planning and Analysis has conceived and performed a preliminary analysis of a low-cost, lighter-than-air surveillance system. The preliminary analysis includes the concept definition, a detailed trade study to determine the optimal configuration of the surveillance system, high-pressure inflation tests, and a control analysis. This paper will provide the details in these areas of the design and provide an insight into the feasibility of such a system.
Myoinositol decreases N-nitroso-N-methylurethane induced lung surfactant deficiency

Abstract Administration of 7.5 mg/kg body wt. of N-nitroso-N-methylurethane subcutaneously to rabbits decreased disaturated phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol, and increased the minimum surface tension of alveolar lavage return. As compared to rabbits treated with N-nitroso-N-methylurethane alone, myoinositol supplementation (3–7 g/kg per day) of N-nitroso-N-methylurethane treated animals largely prevented both the decrease in disaturated phosphatidylcholine, and the increase in minimum surface tension. Myoinositol may be an important nutrient following damage of alveolar epithelium.
The nucleoporin Nup98 associates with the intranuclear filamentous protein network of TPR

The Nup98 gene codes for several alternatively spliced protein precursors. Two in vitro translated and autoproteolytically cleaved precursors yielded heterodimers of Nup98-6kDa peptide and Nup98-Nup96. TPR (translocated promoter region) is a protein that forms filamentous structures extending from nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) to intranuclear sites. We found that in vitro translated TPR bound to in vitro translated Nup98 and, via Nup98, to Nup96. Double-immunofluorescence microscopy with antibodies to TPR and Nup98 showed colocalization. In confocal sections the nucleolus itself was only weakly stained but there was intensive perinucleolar staining. Striking spike-like structures emanated from this perinucleolar ring and attenuated into thinner structures as they extended to the nuclear periphery. This characteristic staining pattern of the TPR network was considerably enhanced when a myc-tagged pyruvate kinase-6kDa fusion protein was overexpressed in HeLa cells. Double-immunoelectron microscopy of these cells using anti-myc and anti-TPR antibodies and secondary gold-coupled antibodies yielded row-like arrangements of gold particles. Taken together, the immunolocalization data support previous electron microscopical data, suggesting that TPR forms filaments that extend from the NPC to the nucleolus. We discuss the possible implications of the association of Nup98 with this intranuclear TPR network for an intranuclear phase of transport.
Hydrogen Peroxide Cycling in Surface Geothermal Waters of Yellowstone National Park

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), iron, and sulfide ion were measured every 4 h over 40-h periods at four hot springs in Yellowstone National Park, WY: an alkaline spring (Black Sand Pool); the sulfur-rich, near-neutral Roadside Spring near Nymph Lake; and two iron-rich, acidic springs (Chocolate Pots and the iron-rich Roadside Spring near Nymph Lake). Hydrogen peroxide concentrations reached 200−600 nM by late afternoon and decreased, in most cases, to less than 50 nM during the night. Diel changes in H2O2 concentrations suggest that photochemically mediated processes were responsible for its formation. Photochemical reactions with DOC are likely the primary pathway responsible for H2O2 formation in geothermal waters. Although microbially mediated processes are important in limiting the buildup of H2O2, the inverse relationship between H2O2 and sulfide ion suggests that H2O2 decay may also occur via chemically mediated processes in the sulfur-rich waters.
Interactions of Human Complement with Virus Particles Containing the Nipah Virus Glycoproteins

Complement is an innate immune response system that most animal viruses encounter during natural infections. We have tested the role of human complement in the neutralization of virus particles harboring the Nipah virus (NiV) glycoproteins. A luciferase-expressing vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) pseudotype that contained the NiV fusion (F) and attachment (G) glycoproteins (NiVpp) showed dose- and time-dependent activation of human complement through the alternative pathway. In contrast to our findings with other paramyxoviruses, normal human serum (NHS) alone did not neutralize NiVpp infectivity in vitro, and electron microscopy demonstrated no significant deposition of complement component C3 on particles. This lack of NiVpp neutralization by NHS was not due to a global inhibition of complement pathways, since complement was found to significantly enhance neutralization by antibodies specific for the NiV F and G glycoproteins. Complement components C4 and C1q were necessary but not sufficient by themselves for the enhancement of antibody neutralization. Human complement also enhanced NiVpp neutralization by a soluble version of the NiV receptor EphrinB2, and this depended on components in the classical pathway. The ability of complement to enhance neutralization fell into one of two profiles: (i) anti-F monoclonal antibodies showed enhancement only at high and not low antibody concentrations, and (ii) anti-G monoclonal antibodies and EphrinB2 showed enhancement at both high and very low levels of antibody (e.g., 3.1 ng) or EphrinB2 (e.g., 2.5 ng). Together, these data establish the importance of human complement in the neutralization of particles containing the NiV glycoproteins and will help guide the design of more effective therapeutics that harness the potency of complement pathways.
Asthma in the Inner City and the Indoor Environment

Inner-city residents continue to suffer disproportionate asthma morbidity despite recent progress in reducing asthma morbidity and mortality in other strata of the United States population. Studies over the past decade indicate that the indoor environment is a strong contributor to poor asthma control and asthma-related health care use in inner-city populations. Certain indoor exposures are more common and occur in higher concentrations in inner-city communities than in suburban communities. Identification of "asthmagenic" indoor exposures has paved the way for the development of intervention strategies aimed at reducing asthma morbidity. This article reviews the growing body of evidence that certain indoor environmental exposures contribute to the burden of asthma in the inner city.
Laser Flash Method for Non-Opaque Materials

The laser flash method for thermal diffusivity measurement is a standard method for opaque solid materials. It can also be used to measure liquid in a specially designed cell. The theoretical basis for the method is established based on pulse heating of one side of a thin opaque sample and measure the temperature response of the other side. In cases where the material is non-opaque or semi-transparent for the laser wavelength, existing theoretical models cannot be used directly. One way to overcome the problem is to coat a thin layer of graphite on the sample surface. The coating can absorb the laser energy and create a surface heating effect. However, coating may not be possible for special cases due to concerns of contamination of liquid samples. This paper reports the development of a theory that includes the transmission and absorption of the laser energy through out the sample thickness. The theory can be applied for samples with different absorption coefficient to obtain simultaneously thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity of the sample. The original theory of the laser flash method becomes a limiting case of the current theory with an infinitely large absorption coefficient. The uncertainty analysis was performed and results indicated that that laser flash method can be used on non-opaque samples.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Casting Doubt on the Predictability of Stock Returns in Real Time: Bayesian Model Averaging using Realistic Priors

Previous studies have identified several variables that would have predicted future stock returns, though other studies suggest these results may be due to data snooping. To guard against data snooping, researchers have suggested use of Bayesian model averaging (BMA) to account for the uncertainty about prediction models. In common with other researchers, I find evidence of predictability during time periods when a hypothetical investor uses BMA with no restrictions on what variables may be included in the model. However, when the hypothetical investor is limited to using only variables whose predictive ability would have been known at the time of the forecast, predictability disappears. Moreover, predictability also disappears when data are updated through 2010, even without constraints on variable use. The results cast doubt on whether stock returns were ever predictable in real time and also suggest that returns may no longer be predictable even if real-time constraints are removed.
Some properties and generalizations of multivariate Eyraud-Gumbel-Morgenstern distributions

Abstract The admissible values of the coefficient in a bivariate Eyraud-Gumbel-Morgenstern (EGM) distribution are found. For multivariate EGM distributions necessary and sufficient conditions are given for its coefficients, and its conditional distributions are found and shown to belong to a family of distributions further extending the multivariate EGM family.
Irrational beliefs and bulimia symptoms

The psychological correlates of bulimia include affective disorder and emotional liability. In addition, emotional liability appears to precipitate binge-purge episodes. It has been proposed that emotional liability is a function of irrational beliefs regarding personal performance, interpersonal relationships and self-control. Irrational beliefs and bulimia symptoms were assessed with psychometrically valid self-report measures. Correlational analyses showed that the irrational beliefs of Anxious Overconcern, Problem Avoidance, Helplessness and Blame Proneness are separately correlated with bulimia symptoms. The implications for the psychological assessment and treatment of bulimia symptoms are discussed.
Designing UML diagrams for technical documentation: continuing the collaborative approach to publishing class diagrams

This paper provides an updated discussion of the authors' ongoing efforts in developing a design framework for UML diagrams in technical documentation.UML diagrams are a key part of program design. They can enhance understanding of complex programming concepts, and assist in problem analysis and solution design. In a previous paper, "Designing UML diagrams for technical documentation" [1], the authors presented a collaborative process that applies established design principles to UML diagrams, improving diagram presentation and shrinking publication costs and schedules. This paper expands on that work, showing how the established process can now be applied to several different modeling tools, including IBM Rational® XDE and Microsoft Visio. It also provides a detailed description of how to export modeling files to other file formats. The authors show how their process workflow has evolved over the past year as it has been applied by developers, writers, and graphic designers at IBM's Toronto Software Laboratory, and discuss ways in which they will continue to monitor and improve the efficacy of both the process and resulting diagrams.
Smoking Prevention Messages for Adolescents: How Intensity, Valence, and Recipient of Consequences Affect Attitude Toward the ad and Intent to Smoke

An examination of the literature and applicable theories suggests contradictory optimal antismoking ad executions. This research examined the relative impact of intensity of the message, valence of the message, and intended recipient (i.e., self versus other) of the consequences conveyed in the message on adolescents' attitudes toward the ad and intent to smoke. The results indicated that relative intensity of the ad message had no significant effect on attitude toward the ad or intent to smoke. However, positive ads were better received than negative ones, in terms of both attitude toward the ad and intent to smoke. Finally, ads that emphasized personal consequences were more likely to evoke positive responses than those that emphasized social consequences, again in terms of both attitude toward the ad and intent to smoke. Findings are discussed in terms of applicable theories and suggestions are offered for improving the design of antismoking ads aimed at adolescents.