cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Building Immigration Policy Back Better

Since 2017, President Trump and his allies have hurtled the politics and policy of immigration in xenophobic directions to an extent without modern precedent, and with devastating effect. The Trump presidency has instituted hundreds of restrictionist measures, including high profile initiatives that have prompted significant public controversy and many less prominent, often technical measures that have erected a sprawling, “invisible wall” and placed millions at heightened risk of deportation. With the onset of the novel coronavirus pandemic, the administration has intensified this crackdown further, using the outbreak as a pretext to institute even more sweeping restrictions that it previously had tried but failed to achieve. Because these measures have been implemented almost entirely through executive action, rather than new legislation, the incoming Biden administration will be well-positioned to roll back many of them—that is, provided that it commits the resources, energy, and political capital required. But even as it seeks to dismantle the Trump immigration legacy, the new administration should also lay the foundation for a more fundamental paradigm shift away from the entrenched regime of comprehensive immigration severity that enabled the Trump presidency’s xenophobic crackdown in the first place. In both its executive actions and legislative agenda on immigration, the new administration has an opportunity to embrace the more ambitious objective, as it has in other policy domains, to "build back better" in the aftermath of Trump.
Association between redundant endometrium and endometrial polyps: a pilot study.

OBJECTIVE To explore the organic features of redundant endometrium (RE), we examined the expression of different endometrial hormone receptors, oncogenes, and cell replication markers, in normal endometrium (NE), endometrial polyps (EP) and RE specimens. METHODS This was an experimental study examining endometrial tissue expression of estrogen receptors (ER1 and 2), progesterone receptors (PR-A+B), androgen receptor (AR), insulin receptor (Insulin-R), insulin-like growth factor receptor 1 (IGFR-1), thyroid hormone receptor (TH-RB), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Ki67, HOXA10, in women with NE, EP and RE, of women undergoing hysteroscopy for benign gynecologic pathology. Specimens were separated in 3 groups: NE, EP, RE. Endometrial samples were processed for real-time RT-PCR analyses. Main outcome measure was tissue expression of the markers in the three groups. RESULTS Of the 16 patients, 2 had NE, 8 had RE, 5 had EP, 1 had both, RE and EP. Compared to NE, RE and EP showed significantly increased Bcl-2, Insulin-R, ER-s, PR-A+B, and TRB expression (p<0.044), with EP showing significantly increased PR-A+B, compared to RE (3.29±0.47 fg/μg RNA versus 1.86±0.34 fg/μg RNA; p=0.023). The other markers were not significantly different across the three groups: Ki67 appeared non-significantly decreased, while HOXA10, IGF-R1, AR, and ER-α, were non-significantly increased. CONCLUSIONS RE showed biochemical characteristics different from NE. Similar to endometrial polyps, RE showed enhanced cell differentiation, but not cell replication. These changes in RE could be detrimental for embryo implantation and should be of consideration in women undergoing fertility treatments.
Justification and Doctrinal Evolution

In the Common Law, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. noted that rules that were justified under an earlier set of customs or beliefs might continue to exist after the original justification no longer supported them. In that case, a new justification might be articulated, but the new justification might result in some adaptations of the rule itself. While Holmes said this, and provided a few examples of rules evolving, he did not explore mechanisms for this evolution of justification and doctrine. This article sets out to do just that. The article begins with a description and analysis of four forms of justification that might be offered for a specific doctrine or procedure. The four are justice, pragmatism, theory, and history. While there is some overlap among the four, they are distinct forms of justification, each with its own implications and usages. The article then shows how changes in justification has affected changes in three specific doctrines or procedures - the special verdict, personal jurisdiction, and the civil jury, in rising order of complexity. While the focus is on civil procedure, it is believed that the analysis set forth in this article would apply to other areas of law as well, perhaps with some minor modifications.
E(race)ing Race from a National Conversation on Mathematics Teaching and Learning: The National Mathematics Advisory Panel as White Institutional Space

In this paper, I wish to argue that several factors support a characterization of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel as an instantiation of the white institutional space (Moore, 2008) that characterizes mathematics education research and policy contexts more generally. In particular, my analysis highlights that mathematics education research and policy contexts such as the National Mathematics Advisory Panel are not immune to the structural and institutional racism that characterize many other areas of U.S. society.
Basement-cover relationships and metamorphic patterns in the foreland of the Torngat Orogen in the Saglek-Hebron area, Labrador

The Archean Nain Province of northern Labrador displays a variable imprint of Early Proterozoic thermotectonism several tens of kilometres east of its collisional boundary (Torngat Orogen) with the Archean Rae (eastern Churchill) Province, the latter extensively reworked by Early Proterozoic events. This imprint is discerned by the west-ward increase in metamorphic grade in the Early Proterozoic Domes diabase dykes and from the degree of retrogression of Archean granulite-facies gneisses. Early Proterozoic tectonic effects also include the translation of Raman Group cover rocks over their Archean basement, and the subsequent folding of both the basement decollement and the cover. Later steep reverse faults dissect the boundary zone between the Rae (Churchill) Province and the Archean foreland. All these features are believed to be related to Early Proterozoic oblique continental collision between two Archean crustal blocks.
Metalorganic polymer route to superconducting yttrium-barium-copper-oxide wire

A metalorganic polymer process for producing both wires and coated wires is presented. High-molecular-weight metalorganic polymers are synthesized which contain yttrium, barium, and copper. These linear polymers, which are thermoplastic and highly soluble in common solvents, can be utilized for wire drawing and coating processes by controlling the polymer viscosity. The processing chemistry and the fabrication techniques for preparing superconducting ceramics by this method are discussed. >
Two‐Dimensional Vibrational Spectroscopy by Doubly Vibrationally Enhanced Four‐Wave Mixing

The sections in this article are Introduction Theory History Site Selective Spectroscopy Multiresonant Electronic Nonlinear Mixing Spectroscopy Multiresonant Six-Wave Mixing Spectroscopy and 2D Raman Spectroscopy Photon Echo and Stimulated Photon Echo Methods 2D Correlation Spectroscopies and Femtosecond Pump–Probe Experiments Experimental 2D DOVE Spectroscopy Mode Selection in DOVE Component and Isotopic Selection in DOVE Time Resolved Structure Determinations Solvent Background Suppression Line Narrowing Conclusions Acknowledgments
Interactions of the Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein with a G-Quadruplex Formed by the FMRP mRNA

Fragile X syndrome, the most common form of inherited mental retardation in humans, affects about 1 in 3000 males and 1 in 5000 females. It is caused by the loss of expression of the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) due to a CGG trinucleotide repeat expansion in the 5’-untranslated region (UTR) of the fragile x mental retardation-1 (fmr1) gene. FMRP has been shown to use its arginine-glycine-glycine (RGG) box RNA binding domain to bind with high affinity and specificity to G quadruplex forming mRNA sequences. The binding of FMRP to a proposed G quadruplex structure in the coding region of its own mRNA (100 nucleotide fragment named FBS) has been proposed to affect mRNA splicing events for isoforms 1 through 3. In this study we truncated the original 100 nt FMRP-FBS to 42 nt and used biophysical methods to directly demonstrate its folding into a G-quadruplex structure and the binding affinity of the different FMRP isoforms to it.
Using Component-based Middleware to Design and Implement Data Distribution Service (DDS) Systems

This short paper presents a framework named integrated CCM (iCCM) for integrating DDS into the CORBA Component Model (CCM). The goal of iCCM is (1) to promote reuse as opposed to reinvention without compromising performance, (2) reduce deployment and configuration complexities associated with DDS; and (3) to allow DRE system developers to focus more on the business-logic of the application instead of low-level implementation details.
Efficient robust DTMF decoding using the subband NDFT

Abstract Digital dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) decoding is often performed by applying a frequency transformation to the received DTMF signal to measure the energies present at the DTMF frequencies. A DTMF decoding algorithm is developed using the concepts of non-uniform frequency sampling and subband decomposition. Since DTMF signals occupy the low-frequency band of the telephone bandwidth, an efficient computation is achieved by retaining only the higher subband in a two-band decomposition of the received signal. Simulations based on the AT&T TouchTone standard are presented to compare the performances of DTMF decoding algorithms based on the subband non-uniform discrete Fourier transform (SB-NDFT), NDFT, SB-DFT and DFT. Results show that the SB-NDFT-based algorithm is more robust to the variation of DTMF frequencies within the specified tolerance bands. Besides, it also requires a significantly lower computational effort to attain a specified level of performance.
An Alternative Technique in the Management of Bullous Emphysema: Thoracoscopic Endoloop Ligation of Bullae

Study objective With the improvements in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, more older patients and patients with respiratory impairments are undergoing bulla ablation using new and costly technology. We evaluated the cost-effective technique of thoracoscopic endoloop ligation of bullae in patients with bullous emphysema. Patients: From March 1992 through January 1996, 79 advanced age (mean age, 64 years) and oxygen dependency patients underwent thoracoscopic procedure using endoloop ligation for treatment of bullous emphysema. Clinical data were collected from chart review. Only patients with radiographically confirmed diagnosis of bullous emphysema were included in this evaluation. Thoracoscopic endoloop ligation of bulla was carried out under general anesthesia with double-lumen endotracheal tube and single-lung ventilation. Results Sixty-five patients (82%) exhibited subjective improvement in their symptom status at 3-month follow-up (from grade 2 or 3 to grade 1 or 2) according to the Modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale. The mean duration of chest drainage was 6 days (range, 4 to 16 days). Average hospital stay was 9.5 days (range, 5 to 26 days). There was no postoperative death. A comparison of preoperative and postoperative functional evaluation was available in only 16 patients who showed an increase in FEV 1 (from 0.85 to 1.02 L) and a decline in residual volume after operation. Complications include persistent airleak over 10 days in seven patients (8.9%), wound infection in three patients, and localized empyema in two patients. There was no recurrence after a mean follow-up of 21 months. Conclusion These encouraging results have shown that thoracoscopic endoloop ligation of bulla has proved to be a safe, reliable, and cost-effective technique for bullous emphysema. With careful preoperative evaluation and meticulous postoperative care, many patients could be rehabilitated by endoloop litigation of the bullae.
Cassini detection of water‐group pick‐up ions in the Enceladus torus

[1] This study reports direct detection by the Cassini plasma spectrometer of freshly-produced water-group pick-up ions within the proposed Enceladus torus, a radially narrow toroidal region surrounding Saturn that contains a high density of water-group neutrals. This torus is produced by the icy plumes observed near the south pole of Enceladus. The ions are created by charge exchange collisions between water-group neutrals in the Enceladus torus and thermal ions corotating with Saturn. They are identified in the Cassini data via their characteristic ring-like signatures in ion velocity distributions. In the radial distance range of 4.0 to 4.5 RS, the density of these non-thermalized ions is estimated to be at least 5.2 cm−3, about 8% of the total ion density. The estimated density together with ionization, charge exchange, and loss times, yield an ion thermalization time of at least 3150 s, in reasonable agreement with hybrid particle simulations.
Simplified Analysis of Air-Bubble Plumes in Moderately Stratified Environments

Analyse simplifiee des panaches provoques par des bulles de gaz ascendantes dans un liquide moderement stratifie. Proposition d'un modele mathematique diphasique pour calculer le flux liquide vertical turbulent induit et sa temperature. Obtention de solutions numeriques simultanees des equations de continuite, de quantite de mouvement et d'energie pour les 2 cas suivants: jet d'air axisymetrique et jet d'air bidimensionnel noye dans l'eau
The Cost Consequences of Universal Leukoreduction

SUMMARY Purpose: To review the published literature on cost analysis of the use of leukoreduced allogeneic blood components or autologous blood for transfusion versus the use of nonleukoreduced blood transfusions and to assess the implications for the universal leukoreduction of blood components. Methods: A total of three retrospective cohort studies, one randomized, controlled trial and one implementation trial are included in the review. In addition, an overview is provided of the medical issues concerning universal leukoreduction and the current controversy surrounding the instituting of such a policy in the United States. Results: All five studies reported overall cost savings with the use of leukoreduced or autologous products compared with the use of unmodified allogeneic blood components. Conclusion: The use of leukoreduced blood components for transfusion provides an overall cost benefit for patients undergoing transfusion for surgery or hematologic malignancy, many of whom would receive nonleukoreduced blood under current recommendations. The savings due to the reduction in morbidity in surgical patients alone could well equal or exceed the added expense of universal leukoreduction.
Quality control methods for optimal BCR-ABL1 clinical testing in human whole blood samples.

Reliable breakpoint cluster region (BCR)–Abelson (ABL) 1 measurement is essential for optimal management of chronic myelogenous leukemia. There is a need to optimize quality control, sensitivity, and reliability of methods used to measure a major molecular response and/or treatment failure. The effects of room temperature storage time, different primers, and RNA input in the reverse transcription (RT) reaction on BCR-ABL1 and β-glucuronidase (GUSB) cDNA yield were assessed in whole blood samples mixed with K562 cells. BCR-ABL1 was measured relative to GUSB to control for sample loading, and each gene was measured relative to known numbers of respective internal standard molecules to control for variation in quality and quantity of reagents, thermal cycler conditions, and presence of PCR inhibitors. Clinical sample and reference material measurements with this test were concordant with results reported by other laboratories. BCR-ABL1 per 103 GUSB values were significantly reduced (P = 0.004) after 48-hour storage. Gene-specific primers yielded more BCR-ABL1 cDNA than random hexamers at each RNA input. In addition, increasing RNA inhibited the RT reaction with random hexamers but not with gene-specific primers. Consequently, the yield of BCR-ABL1 was higher with gene-specific RT primers at all RNA inputs tested, increasing to as much as 158-fold. We conclude that optimal measurement of BCR-ABL1 per 103 GUSB in whole blood is obtained when gene-specific primers are used in RT and samples are analyzed within 24 hours after blood collection.
SU‐E‐T‐217: Characterization of the Respisens™ Motion Sensor Device for Intra‐Fraction Patient Tracking

Purpose: To assess the accuracy and response characteristics of the novel Respisens™ intra‐fraction motion monitoring device. Methods: The Respisens™ (CIVCO, Orange City IA) device is a highly sensitive, real time (20Hz sampling frequency) magnetic distance sensor used for patient motion tracking during radiotherapy—i.e. intra‐fraction motion monitoring. The device consists of both a miniaturized magnetic transmitter and receiver which measure the coplanar distance between the two probes real‐time. The device was evaluated for five different characteristic prior to clinical implementation: (1) Distance accuracy, (2) Distance range, (3) Off‐plane (non‐coplanar) response, (4) Angular response, and (5) Displacement detection accuracy. Results: The Respisens™ showed a distance tracking range from 7.5 to 23.5cm. The distance accuracy was 16.5cm, a varying response of up to 2.0% was noted. Conclusions: Based on the preliminary findings, the Respisens™ intra‐fraction motion monitoring device can be used to accurately measure patient motion realtime. Precaution must be taken to ensure that the probes are coplanar and not rotated relative to one another.
Analysis of collective neutrino flavor transformation in supernovae

Author(s): Duan, H; Fuller, GM; Carlson, J; Qian, YZ | Abstract: We study the flavor evolution of a dense gas initially consisting of pure monoenergetic νe and νe. Using adiabatic invariants and the special symmetry in such a system we are able to calculate the flavor evolution of the neutrino gas for the cases with slowly decreasing neutrino number densities. These calculations give new insights into the results of recent large-scale numerical simulations of neutrino flavor transformation in supernovae. For example, our calculations reveal the existence of what we term the "collective precession mode." Our analyses suggest that neutrinos which travel on intersecting trajectories subject to destructive quantum interference nevertheless can be in this mode. This mode can result in sharp transitions in the final energy-dependent neutrino survival probabilities across all trajectories, a feature seen in the numerical simulations. Moreover, this transition is qualitatively different for the normal and inverted neutrino mass hierarchies. Exploiting this difference, the neutrino signals from a future galactic supernova can potentially be used to determine the actual neutrino mass hierarchy. © 2007 The American Physical Society.
Dynamic demand estimation and microscopic traffic simulation of a university campus transportation network

Abstract This article documents the authors' experience with the modeling, simulation, and analysis of a university transportation system, using the TRansportation ANalysis and SIMulation System (TRANSIMS). The processes of data preparation and network coding are described, followed by the algorithm developed to estimate the dynamic 24-hour demand, which includes a procedure for estimating the ‘desirability’ of the different parking lots from readily available data. The dynamic demand estimation algorithm is validated by comparing estimated and observed parking lot occupancies, where it is shown that the algorithm is capable of replicating observed results. Finally, an example is included to demonstrate how the developed model can be used in campus transportation planning. Besides serving as a first case study for using TRANSIMS to model a university campus, the study's contributions include the development of a procedure for parking lot desirability ranking and a practical procedure for estimating dynami...
Clinical review 109: Contrasting paradigms for hereditary hyperfunction of endocrine cells.

Hereditary endocrine hyperfunction is categorized here as neoplastic or not neoplastic. The disorders and their mutated genes are subdivided further by hyperfunctional hormone secretory tissue (Table 1). For example, the parathyroids hyperfunction in at least three hereditary neoplastic syndromes [multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2a (MEN2a), and hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumor syndrome (HPT-JT)], each associated with one distinct gene (1, 2) or locus (3–5). Alternately, the parathyroids can be overactive in two hereditary non-neoplastic syndromes–familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) or neonatal severe primary hyperparathyroidism (NSHPT). Either is usually caused by mutations of the CaSR gene (6–9); two other undiscovered genes account for FHH in a few families (10, 11). A similar classification dichotomy applies to hereditary hyperfunction of pancreatic islet b cells (1, 12–17), of thyrocytes (18–23), or of Leydig cells (19, 24–26) (Table 1). For didactic purposes, this analysis omits endocrine tissue without separate hereditary disorders in each of the two categories. For example, hereditary pheochromocytoma may arise from neoplasia with germline mutation of VHL (12), RET (2), or NF1, but apparently not from non-neoplastic processes. This analysis also excludes dysfunctions outside the hyperfunctional endocrine tissue (for example, hereditary hyperandrogenism can be caused by activation of the CRF/ACTH axis secondary to defective cortisol synthesis).
Screech noise source structure of a supersonic rectangular jet

The near-field of the screech noise source structure of an under-expanded supersonic rectangular jet was studied in detail. A miniature probe microphone was used along with a reference microphone to determine the amplitude and phase of the sound pressure near and in the high speed flow field. The transverse structure of the unsteady pressure field was investigated by moving the probe microphone sufficiently far into the jet so that pressure fall-off was observed. Five islands of high sound pressure level have been distinguished which may be associated with the actual local sources of sound production. These sources of screech noise are closely associated with the jet shock structure as would be expected, with the peak region of noise level being found slightly downstream of each of the five observed shocks. The third and fourth noise sources have the highest levels and are about equal in strength. All of the apparent noise sources have their peak levels in the subsonic flow region. Strong cancellations in the acoustic field are observed in the downstream and sideline directions which may account for the predominant upstream propagation of the fundamental tone noise.
Seismic Modeling of Compositional And Geochemical Effects In CO 2 Sequestration

Summary Time-lapse seismic monitoring of CO2 injection into a hydrocarbon reservoir can be important for either enhanced recovery or CO2 sequestration tasks. In the latter case, over long time periods, the interaction of CO2 with in-situ brine and host rock minerals generates a variety of geochemical reactions that significantly aect reservoir rock properties and reservoir fluid properties. Dissolution of CO2 in brine to attain gas-brine equilibria alters brine density, which changes the bulk properties of reservoir fluids. Furthermore, slow mineral reactions between CO2 reservoir fluids and host rock minerals change porosity and the salinity of the reservoir fluids. Here we present results of a modeling study that combines direct simulation of geochemical processes with fluid flow and seismic models. The results show that the CO2 injection leads to P-wave velocity reduction of up to 12% for the first 10 years, while chemical eects largely associated with salinity changes become observable seismically only after longer time periods of hundreds of years, producing small velocity changes of about 2%. In general, the results suggest that it will be dicult to distinguish mineral reactions and intra-aqueous reactions from the reduction in bulk modulus caused by injection of CO2 into brine, especially with noisy data. Therefore, this type of geochemical reaction may not be too important for monitoring of sequestration eorts.
Using Item Response Theory to Assess Changes in Student Performance Based on Changes in Question Wording

Five years of longitudinal data for general chemistry student assessments at the University of Georgia have been analyzed using item response theory (IRT). Our analysis indicates that minor changes in question wording on exams can make significant differences in student performance on assessment questions. This analysis encompasses data from over 6100 students, giving an extremely small statistical uncertainty. IRT provided us with a new insight into student performance on our assessments that is also important to the chemical education community. In this paper, IRT, in conjunction with computerized testing, indicates how nuances in question wording impact student performance on assessments.
Spacers made from sealed cold-drink bottles were as effective as conventional spacers in children with acute asthma

Source Citation Zar HJ, Brown G, Donson H, et al. Home-made spacers for bronchodilator therapy in children with acute asthma: a randomised trial. Lancet. 1999 Sep 18;354:979-82. 10501359
Flow analysis of MHC molecules and other membrane proteins in isolated phagosomes

A method was developed to apply flow cytometry analysis to the characterization of individual phagosomes. Macrophages were incubated with latex beads and homogenized to release the phagosomes. Intact cells and nuclei were removed by low speed centrifugation, and a crude phagosome preparation was fixed with paraformaldehyde. Distinct optical properties of latex bead phagosomes allowed their analytic isolation from other organelles and cell fragments by flow analysis using a narrow gate based on scatter parameters. Furthermore, separate gates were established for phagosomes containing one, two and even three beads, which were sorted and examined by electron microscopy (EM). EM showed that the phagosomal membrane was closely apposed to the latex bead in most phagosomes, but some more spacious phagosomes were also observed. Phagosomes were immunolabeled and subjected to flow analysis for MHC-I and MHC-II molecules and lysosomal membrane markers (LAMPs). The proportion of LAMP-positive phagosomes increased with incubation time, reflecting maturation of phagolysosomes. Significant staining for MHC-I and MHC-II was demonstrated and remained relatively constant with time. Flow analysis of phagosomes allows the characterization and comparison of individual phagosomes, and the identification of subpopulations of phagosomes with differing membrane compositions. It also provides the advantage of analytically isolating phagosomes from other components of the cell without the need for extensive prior physical purification. Thus, it can be used to rapidly assess changes in phagosomal membrane composition as a function of phagosome maturation.
Re-examination of the McCoy cell line for confirmation of its mouse origin: karyotyping, electron microscopy and reverse transcriptase assay for endogenous retrovirus.

Abstract Background: The McCoy cell line originally derived from human synovial fluid in 1955, has been later found useful for cultivation of Chlamydia trachomatis . This cell line has been subcultured and exchanged between laboratories for many years. In recent years, the McCoy cell line has been widely used in many clinical diagnostic laboratories and has been supplied through commercial companies for the isolation and identification of Chlamydia trachomatis from clinical specimens. Objectives: Since retrovirus-like particles have been observed in McCoy cells and the species of origin of the currently used cell line has not been adequately documented, further characterization of McCoy cell line obtained from commercial sources was carried out. Study design: This study includes karyotypes analysis using G-banding for the confirmation of species origin of McCoy cells, electron microscopy for examination of virus particles associated with the cells and biochemical assay for reverse transcriptase activity for detection of retrovirus. Results: Our results showed by karyotype analysis that McCoy cells are of mouse origin. Electron microscopic examination revealed the presence of endogenous retrovirus type-A and type-C virions. Biochemical assays of culture supernatant fluids from McCoy cells detected reverse transcriptase activity which required Mg 2+ ions. Conclusions: The present study has confirmed that McCoy cells currently used by many laboratories are mouse cells, not the original McCoy cells derived from human cells. Laboratory workers should be aware of the presence of endogenous murine retrovirus in this cell line and appropriate precautions should be taken.
Anticancer effects of fenretinide in human medulloblastoma.

Abstract N-(4-hydroxyphenyl) retinamide (4-HPR, fenretinide) a synthetic retinoid is in clinical trials for the treatment of several malignancies. However, its biological effects and therapeutic value in childhood brain tumor medulloblastoma (MB) has not been investigated. In this study, we report for the first time that fenretinide (2.5–10 μM) induces apoptotic cell death in human MB cells. We observed significant inhibition of cell survival in four MB cell lines (D425MED, D458MED, D283MED and D341MED) as determined by MTT assays. These results were further supported by inhibition of anchorage-independent colony formation in soft agar. Fenretinide-induced decrease in cell viability was in part due to activation of caspase-3 dependent cell death, which was further supported by the cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1), a caspase-3 substrate. Cell death was partially prevented by the antioxidant, l -ascorbic acid suggesting that free radical intermediates might be involved in fenretinide effects. These results suggest that pharmacologically achievable concentrations of fenretinide are effective in killing MB cells and thus show its therapeutic potential to treat human MB.
Who is occupied? Consciousness, self awareness and the process of human adaptation

Abstract This article explores consciousness and its relevance to the field of occupational science. Selected literature from Eastern and Western schools of philosophy and consciousness is explored in relation to the process of human adaptation. The article highlights the inner world of occupational beings with particular emphasis on the nature of identity as experienced through the self/I. This paper explores consciousness further from the standpoint of advances made in science and psychology. The theories of uncertainty, chaos and complexity are discussed from a process oriented perspective that considers the importance of self awareness. This article suggests that occupational scientists should consider the dynamic potential that exists for evolving awareness in consciousness, and the implications that this has for occupational beings and the process of human adaptation.
Educating Professionals for Practice in a Multicultural Society: Understanding Oppression and Valuing Diversity

The United States is a society diverse in culture, race, ethnicity, religion, and income; one struggling with a past involving oppression. inequality, and buried knowledge. In order to heal and strengthen. we must educate ourselves about the many strands of our history; grow to appredate and enjoy the multiple cultures, races, and realities; and recognize the consequences of current and historical oppression. Social work professionals can and should play a lead role. Social work educators can provide leadership in developing learning opportunities with parallel foci on the history and impact of oppression, and the strength and joy of diversity. After a review of the issues, a model is presented for guidinglfadlitating this early learning.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy drug discovery – the application of utrophin promoter activation screening

Introduction: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a devastating genetic muscle wasting disease caused by mutations in the DMD gene that in turn lead to an absence of dystrophin. Currently, there is no definitive therapy for DMD. Gene- and cell-based therapies designed to replace dystrophin have met some degree of success, as have strategies that seek to improve the dystrophic pathology independent of dystrophin. Areas covered: In this review the authors focus on utrophin promoter activation-based strategies and their implications on potential therapeutics for DMD. These strategies in common are designed to identify drugs/small molecules that can activate the utrophin promoter and would allow the functional substitution of dystrophin by upregulating utrophin expression in dystrophic muscle. The authors provide an overview of utrophin biology with a focus on regulation of the utrophin promoter and discuss current attempts in identifying utrophin promoter-activating molecules using high-throughput screening...
Rational Equiangular Polygons

The main purpose of this note is to investigate equiangular polygons with rational edges. When the number of edges is the power of a prime, we determine simple, necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of such polygons. As special cases of our investigations, we settle two conjectures involving arithmetic polygons.
Intestinal absorption of D-xylose by germfree rats.

Les observations faites sur les rats gnotobiotiques et les rats normaux montrent que l'absorption ded-xylose est beaucoup plus elevee chez les rats normaux que chez les rats gnotobiotiques. Cette difference est attribuee au changement de transport muqueux produit par la presence de microrganismes intestinaux.
Photo-formed Metal Nanoparticle Arrays in Monolithic Silica-Biopolymer Aerogels

Transparent monolithic aerogels based on silica, the bioderived polymer chitosan, and coordinated ions have been employed to serve as a three-dimensional scaffold decorated with Au, Pt and Pd ions. The coordination states of metal ions and the initial gel in one or several of the ions are established in the thickness of the monolith that is produced by supercritical CO2 extraction to form the aerogels. Also in this work, it has been found that the Au(III) aerogels can be imaged photolytically in the two planar dimensions. The spatially controlled photolysis produces nanoparticles, (Au)n in the range of from 5 to 85 nm, for example, that constitute two dimensionally imaged arrays whose volumetric concentration also varies in the third dimension. These images microarrays of nanoparticles provide a basis for localization and detection of thiols, disulfides, amino acids and protein molecules. The formation of these arrays, including the dependence of their properties on light intensity, frequency and exposure, and distribution of target molecules and ions in the initial aerogel is presented.
Electrooxidation of carbon monoxide and methanol on platinum-overlayer-coated gold nanoparticles : Effects of film thickness

The electrooxidation of carbon monoxide and methanol on Pt-coated Au nanoparticles attached to 3-aminopropyl trimethoxysilane-modified indium tin oxide electrodes was examined as a function of Pt film thickness and Au particle coverage. For the electrodes with medium and high Au particle coverages, the CO stripping peak position shifts to more negative values with increasing Pt film thickness, from ca. 0.8 V (vs Ag/AgCl) at 1 ML to 0.45 V at 10 ML. Accompanying this peak potential shift is the sharpening of the peak width from more than 150 to 65 mV. For the electrode with low Au particle coverage, similar peak width narrowing was also observed, but the peak potential shift is much smaller, from 0.85 V at 1 ML of Pt to 0.65 V at 10 ML. These observations are compared with the CO oxidation on bulk Pt electrodes and on Pt films deposited on bulk Au electrodes. The film-thickness-dependent CO oxidation is explained by d band theory in terms of strain and ligand effects, the particle size effect, and the particle aggregation induced by Pt film growth. Corresponding to the increasing CO oxidation activity, the current density of methanol oxidation grows with the Pt film thickness. The peak potential and current density reach the same values as those obtained on a polycrystalline bulk Pt electrode when more than 4 ML of Pt is deposited on the Au particle electrodes with a particle coverage higher than 0.25. These results suggest that it is feasible to reduce Pt loading in methanol fuel cells by using Pt thin films as the anode catalyst.
Representation of the supercritical Pomeron propagator

Abstract Analytic continuation in the bare Pomeron intercept is discussed in the context of a representation of the Pomeron propagator derived by the renormalization-group approach. When the bare intercept is above the critical value, the leading singularity turns out to be a branch point fixed at J = 1. The resulting cross section grows like (ln s ) r . where r is a ratio of critical exponents. In the one- and two-loop approximations, r ≈ 1.
An archival study of decision-making in child custody disputes

Investigation files and court records of 282 disputed child-custody cases (San Diego, 1982) were coded and analyzed to determine predictors of judicial decision. Log-linear analysis of physical custody decisions as a function of factors contained in the files suggested that three categories of factors (mother, father, and child) were linked causally to a counselor's recommendation, which was linked subsequently to the judge's decision. Judicial decisions could be predicted accurately by a model that took very few factors into account. Only two factors directly affected the judge; counselor's recommendation and child preference. The major factor that influenced decisions was counselor recommendation (60% of the cases); cases that lacked this recommendation were predicted by an inferential measure of the child's preference (15% of the cases).
Fragmentation of nitrous oxide by monochromatic soft x rays

Studies of the fragmentation of nitrous oxide using time‐of‐flight mass spectroscopy following excitation by monochromatic synchrotron radiation are reported. The consequences of core electron excitation of all three atoms to the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital are described. Clear changes in the mass spectra with the atomic site of excitation are observed. These changes can be understood qualitatively in terms of the atomic populations, which govern the Auger decay channels, and the overlap populations, which determine the bond structure, of the valence molecular orbitals. Mass spectra correlated with Auger electrons are very similar to mass spectra correlated with events producing low energy electrons. This result may indicate that the selectivity of the primary Auger decay process is not affected by additional excitation events.
A cross-national assessment of the values of Latin America managers: contrasting hues or shades of gray?

We draw upon studies from the social sciences to develop and test hypotheses about similarities and differences in the importance of values among managers in 12 Latin American countries. Using the Rokeach Value Survey, data from 1015 owner-managers of small businesses indicated convergence among values relating to group interests, but significant variation among values serving individual interests. In addition, several groups of countries were identified as culturally similar, whereas Brazil and Mexico remained culturally discrete. The results suggest that common perceptions of Latin America as a culturally homogeneous region are stereotypical and incorrect, and that divergence in the importance of values can explain differences in business phenomena across the region.
Process effects on activated carbon performance and analytical methods used for low level mercury removal in natural gas applications

Abstract Type HGR® activated carbon is frequently employed to protect aluminum heat exchangers in liquefying natural gas. Residual mercury levels in the treated gas are frequently at or near the limits of detection, challenging the analytical methods employed. Additionally, process variables and variations in the testing environment can affect the analytical procedures used to measure low levels of mercury. This paper will describe the analytical procedures used to routinely measure mercury levels to below 0.01 μg/Nm3 under challenging process and field conditions. The impact of process variables on adsorbent performance will also be described.
Minimum critical current density of 105 A/cm2 at 77 K in the thin layer of Bi1.8Pb0.4Sr2.0Ca2.2Cu3.0Oy superconductor near the Ag in Ag-sheathed tapes

Abstract We report for the first time a minimum critical current density in a BSCCO/Ag polycrystalline sample of 1.1. × 5 A/cm 2 at 77 K in a self-field. For practical applications of (Bi, Pb)2Sr2Ca2Cu3Oy (BSCCO-2223) high-temperature superconducting material, the critical current density (Jc) is a limiting factor. A requirement for a Jc of 105 A/cm2 in long length wires and tapes, at 77 K and high magnetic field, has been established. The transport Jc were measured on samples that retained a 10 μm thickness of the superconducting core after they were removed from rolled tapes. The thin superconducting layer region next to the silver sheath was shown to be the actual current carrying region in the tape. These results confirm the presence of a high critical current density region adjacent to the silver-sheathed tapes, and provide a basis for further improvements in Jc. Regions of silver were also found to be present in the superconducting core.
A generalized hierarchical model of resource allocation

Abstract This study presents a three-level, linear version of the Generalized Hierarchical Model (GHM) and demonstrates how the model can be used in allocating resources for a hypothetical university. The GHM uses a composition approach to organizational modeling. By applying the model to a rather large university planning problem, it is demonstrated that the composition approach can serve as a planning tool that may be useful in allocating resources within hierarchical organizations.
Effect of vanadate on reproductive efficiency in normal and streptozocin-treated diabetic rats

The effects of oral vanadate treatment on the reproductive efficiency of normal and diabetic female rats were studied. Vanadate treatment in a dose-dependent manner reduced both the conception rate and the ability to carry pregnancy to term compared with a control group. These effects were more severe in diabetic groups as compared with nondiabetic groups. At the 0.25 mg/mL vanadate dose, the conception rate was reduced by 13% and 33% for the nondiabetic group and the diabetic group, respectively. At the 0.50 mg/mL dose, this rate decreased by 20% and 47% for the nondiabetic and diabetic groups, respectively. With an identical oral vanadate regimen of 0.25 mg/mL, the ability to sustain pregnancy to term was reduced by 30% and 90% for the nondiabetic and diabetic groups, respectively, and by 84% and 100% for these groups at a dose of 0.50 mg/mL. Although the blood vanadate concentrations were an order of magnitude higher in diabetic animals treated with vanadate than in nondiabetic animals under an identical vanadate treatment, oral vanadate treatments had no measurable effects in ameliorating hyperglycemia in these diabetic pregnant animals. In conclusion, vanadate is ineffective in normalizing blood glucose in pregnant diabetic rats, and it impairs reproductive capacity and the ability to sustain pregnancy to term in both nondiabetic and diabetic animals.
Antibody-ligand interaction studied by flourescence enhancement methods—III: Binding activity of anti-p-azobenzene sulfonate antibody by 2-anilinonaphthalene-6-sulfonate

Abstract 2-anilinonaphtalene-6-sulfonate (2,6-ANS) flouresce strongly when bound to antibody made against p -azobenzene-sulfonate. This ligand 2,6-ANS specifically binds antibody against p -azobenzene-sulfonate while the flourescence enhancement of this ligand is minimal when it is reacted with antibody against p -azobenzene-arsonate and also p -azobenzoate. The flourescence enhancement of 2,6-ANS with anti-para-azobenzene-sulfonate is far greater than the flourescence enhancement obtained when this anti-body reacts with 1,4-ANS, 1,5-ANS and 1,8-ANS. The antisera were prepared in the rabbit and purified specifically by immunoadsorbent. The binding of 2,6-ANS has been examined by the method of “fluorescence enhancement” and the intrinsic association constant was obtained.
Monophasic action potential recordings: Evaluation of antiarrhythmic drugs☆

The use of MAP recording techniques has been said to have bridged the gap between basic in vitro investigation of the transmembrane action potential and observations made in situ from the beating heart. With regard to antiarrhythmic agents, MAP recordings are particularly useful in evaluating drugs which prolong repolarization. The simultaneous measurement of MAP and ERP at the same site permits the comparison of drug effects on repolarization and refractoriness. The ability to safely and reliably record the MAP contributes importantly to the evaluation and classification of antiarrhythmic drug effects in vivo and may ultimately lead to more rational selection of drug therapy for individual patients. Antiarrhythmic drug effects demonstrated with MAP recordings have generally shown good agreement with the Vaughan Williams classification of electrophysiological actions. An important key to drug efficacy may be that some drugs prolong refractoriness beyond their effect on repolarization. Conversely, a potential explanation for proarrhythmia may lie in slowing of conduction without the concomitant protective effect of postrepolarization refractoriness. The phenomenon of use dependence, which has been demonstrated for many drugs, suggests why an agent that prevents induction of arrhythmia during programmed stimulation in the electrophysiology laboratory may not prevent spontaneous arrhythmia initiation at slower heart rates. The paramount task of clinical electrophysiology is the successful treatment of rhythm disturbances. The more detailed and quantitative evaluation of drug effects afforded by MAP recordings may ultimately result in the more effective use of antiarrhythmic drugs in general and to more precise tailoring of therapy for individual patients.
A new electroluminescent display device

Abstract In this device hot electrons are introduced into the phosphor by electron tunneling through a thin dielectric to excite the luminescent centers.
Anxiety, depression and students’ religiosity

Many studies have examined the protective factors associated with religion and mental illness. In some studies, religiosity had an inverse relationship to mental health problems, whereas in other studies, religiosity has no effect. The current study examines the relationship between religious beliefs, anxiety, and depression in college students. The Beck Anxiety Inventory and the Beck Depression Inventory were administered as well as questions about religious beliefs and religiosity. No difference was found between Catholic and other Christian denominations in rates and levels of depression and anxiety. Self-reported religious influence and self-reported religiosity were significantly related to depression but not anxiety. Religious service attendance was negatively correlated with both anxiety and depression. These results suggest that certain aspects of religiosity may play a more influential role in the protection against depression, indicating these aspects of religion play different roles in individu...