cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
HSP90 inhibitors in the context of heat shock and the unfolded protein response: effects on a primary canine pulmonary adenocarcinoma cell line.

AbstractBackground: Agents targeting HSP90 and GRP94 are seldom tested in stressed contexts such as heat shock (HS) or the unfolded protein response (UPR). Tumor stress often activates HSPs and the UPR as pro-survival mechanisms. This begs the question of stress effects on chemotherapeutic efficacy, particularly with drugs targeting chaperones such as HSP90 or GRP94. We tested the utility of several HSP90 inhibitors, including PU-H71 (targeting GRP94), on a primary canine lung cancer line under HS/UPR stress compared to control conditions.Methods: We cultured canine bronchoalveolar adenocarcinoma cells that showed high endogenous HSP90 and GRP94 expression; these levels substantially increased upon HS or UPR induction. We treated cells with HSP90 inhibitors 17-DMAG, 17-AAG or PU-H71 under standard conditions, HS or UPR. Cell viability/survival was assayed. Antibody arrays measured intracellular signalling and apoptosis profiles.Results: HS and UPR had varying effects on cells treated with different HSP90 ...
Effects of increasing soybean hulls in finishing diets with wet or modified distillers grains plus solubles on performance and carcass characteristics of beef steers

Two experiments evaluated feeding soybean hulls (SBH) in finishing diets that contain distillers grains plus solubles on performance and carcass characteristics. Dietary concentrations of SBH were 0, 12.5, 25, and 37.5% of diet DM. In Exp. 1, 167 crossbred yearling steers (395 ± 22 kg of BW) were fed for 117 d in a randomized block design in which pelleted SBH replaced dry-rolled corn. All diets contained 25% modified distillers grains plus solubles, 15% corn silage, and 5% liquid supplement. As SBH concentration increased, DMI decreased linearly (P = 0.04). Gain and G:F decreased linearly (P < 0.01) in response to increasing concentrations of SBH, which decreased relative energy value from 91 to 79% of corn. Hot carcass weight linearly decreased (P < 0.01) by 24 kg as SBH increased. In Exp. 2, a randomized block design used 160 backgrounded steer calves (363 ± 16 kg of BW) in a 138-d finishing study with 0, 12.5, 25, or 37.5% SBH in the meal form. Basal ingredients consisted of a 1:1 ratio of high-moisture corn and dry-rolled corn, 40% wet distillers grains plus solubles, 8% sorghum silage, and 4% dry meal supplement. There was a tendency (P = 0.12) for a quadratic increase in ADG and G:F as dietary SBH increased, with numerically greatest ADG and G:F with 12.5% SBH. Feeding 12.5 to 25% SBH with 40% wet distillers grains plus solubles (Exp. 2) had little effect on performance but decreased ADG and G:F in diets with 25% modified distillers grains plus solubles (Exp. 1).
RF-based Monitoring, Sensing and Localization of Mobile Wireless Nodes

Spectrum sensing and characterization play a very important role in the implementation of cognitive radios and adaptive mobile wireless networks. Most practical mobile network deployments require some level of sensing and adaptation to allow individual nodes to learn and reconfigure based on observations from their own environment. Spectrum sensing can be used for detection of a transmitter in a specific band, which can help cognitive radios to detect spectrum holes for secondary users and to determine the presence of a transmitter in a given area. In addition to determining the existence of a transmitter, information obtained from spectrum sensing can be used to localize a transmitter. In this paper, we focus in oner particular aspect o that problem: the distributed and collaborative sensing, characterization and location of emitters in an open environment. Thus, we propose a software defined radio (SDR)-based spectrum sensing and localization method. The proposed approach uses energy detection for spectrum sensing and fingerprinting techniques for estimating the location of the transmitter. A Universal Software Radio Peripheral (USRP) managed via a small, low-cost computer is used for spectrum sensing. Results obtained from an indoor experimental setup and the K-nearest neighbor algorithm for the fingerprinting based localization are presented in this paper.
Bi-Graceful Graphs

A graph G is said to be bi-graceful if both G and its line graph L(G) are graceful. In this paper we study bi-graceful graphs and prove that C4 with two disjoint paths of the same length attached at any two adjacent points is bi-graceful.
The Role of Competence in the Study of Children and Adolescents Under Stress

“Stress” and “coping” have virtually become paired associates in numerous titles of books, chapters, and journal articles (e.g., Antonovsky, 1979; Compas, 1987; Compas, Malcarne, & Fondacaro, 1988; Field, McCabe, & Schneiderman, 1985; Garmezy & Rutter, 1983; Holroyd & Lazarus, 1982; Lazarus & Folkman, 1984; Milgram, 1986; Roth & Cohen, 1986). By comparison, the linkage of “stress” and “competence” is a less common pairing. The term “competence” refers to those skills, capacities, and knowledge that enhance cognitive, social, and emotional adaptation (see White, 1979; Garmezy, Masten, Nordstrom, & Ferrarese, 1979). It is the central theme of this chapter that it is more productive to integrate the competence construct in studying adaptation to stress than to employ the more elusive and unstable formulations of coping. Three sections of this chapter seek to justify this somewhat atypical viewpoint.
Robust Fault Tolerant Rail Door State Monitoring Systems: Applying the Brooks-Iyengar Sensing Algorithm to Transportation Applications.

In a moving train, the acceleration and deceleration adversely effects the sensor systems, which may induce errors into the system. Todayâ€™s technology does not guarantee success and safety in all situations. There are two important situations that are critical for the safety of passengers when embarking and disembarking. Distributed sensing networks needed to control the train doors require a fusion of the sensor inputs to provide accurate automatic opening and closing with minimum traction. Brooks-Iyengar Distributed Sensing algorithm can be used to provide a fault tolerant automatic sensing platform for closing doors based on the following scenario. An automatic sensor network can be installed in the motor circuit to collect current data through a wireless protocol. The data can be transmitted by cellular communication to servers, where the Brooks-Iyengar distributed sensing algorithm can be applied to identify and categorize the data signals to safely and automatically open and close the doors. This paper describes the performance evaluation of the signal output of Brooks-Iyengar algorithm in this application. Based upon the performance results, the Brooks-Iyengar Algorithm provides the best robust algorithm for implementation under faulty sensor conditions, such as those encountered in real-world transportation applications.
POD Assessment of NDI Procedures- Results of a Round Robin Test

Inspection, according to damage tolerance criteria, requires that the NDI procedures be quantified in terms of their sensitivity and reliability as defined by probability of detection (POD) and confidence limit measurements. The POD for NDI procedures can be assessed experimentally by inspecting statistically valid numbers of flawed and flaw-free parts using procedures that duplicate maintenance inspections. A comprehensive document describing testing and evaluation procedures for assessing the capability of an NDI system using POD and confidence limits has been published by AGARD [1].
TV After the Nineties

This chapter identifies thematic continuities and discontinuities from nineties television to television in the early twenty-first century. Launching the reality television show boom, Survivor rewarded anti-communal strategy in its contestants. Acclaimed yet unpopular in its own time, The Wire depicts the mixed results for earnest efforts at community improvement; while attempts to repair community issues in America may be doomed on the grand scale, small victories do happen. The underlying existential loneliness in Seinfeld was carried on in Louie and numerous other tonally similar shows. NYPD Blue’s workplace-as-family theme reemerged in comedies like The Office and Parks and Recreation. The latter also addresses Obama Era political polarization, just as The X-Files and Touched by an Angel grappled with the polarization of the nineties culture wars.
Improving Customer Reactions to Brokered Ultimatums: An Application of Justice Theory

Due to the growth of discount travel intermediaries such as Priceline, researchers have become interested in customer reactions to brokered ultimatum bargaining contexts. In this study, utilizing justice theory, we examine how procedural variations in a brokered ultimatum game (BUG) affect customer perceptions of informational and distributive justice. We also examine the degree to which justice perceptions affect customer behavior (repatronage) and attitudes (willingness to recommend the service to others). We find that offer acceptance/rejection and an enriched/non-enriched explanation exhibit direct effects on informational and distributive justice perceptions. We also find an interactive effect, such that, when an offer is rejected, justice perceptions can be improved through the use of an enriched explanation. Finally, we find that informational and distributive justice perceptions exhibit unique effects on repatronage behavior and the willingness to recommend the service to others.
Repeating earthquakes, episodic tremor and slip: Emerging patterns in complex earthquake cycles?: Research Articles

The lack of regularity in earthquake cycles continues to be a confounding issue in earthquake science. Lately, observations of episodic nonvolcanic tremor and slip (ETS) along a few well-instrumented tectonic plate boundaries are intriguing: these features recur together with predictable time intervals. Data now trace recurring ETS back to 1990 and no significant earthquake ever followed an ETS episode. This observation and the fact that stress drops associated with episodic slips are low, only on the order of 0.01 MPa, suggests that repeated ETS has little cumulative effects in priming the fault for the next large earthquake. Another known regularity in seismic activity is the so-called repeating earthquakes that rupture the same patch of fault repetitively. Current hypotheses for repeating earthquakes point to the interaction of continual, aseismic fault slip with locked, seismogenic patches of the fault. Interestingly, ETS also recur near where the transition between brittle faulting and plastic flow is expected, although it is not clear how and why regularities in space and time are interconnected. New data show that ETS recurs throughout the entire length of the Cascadia subduction zone, thus ruling out any special, local factors as necessary conditions for ETS. Recurrence intervals of ETS vary along the Cascadia. Such variations are not governed by the rate of plate motion that ultimately drives the earthquake process, but they do coincide with variations in the geology of the overriding plate that can influence the rheology along the plate interface. To this end, we call attention to the Portevin-Le Chatelier effect (PLC, or jerky flow) as a potential analog to the earthquake process. The dynamics of the PLC has been extensively studied and shows many intriguing features as the system goes from chaotic to self-organized critical regimes as strain rate increases. In particular, the PLC exhibits not only stick-slip behavior (stress serration) over time but also spatial interactions over extended regions—features that are necessary to account for complex spatio-temporal variations associated with earthquake activities. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 12: 33–43, 2007 This paper was submitted as an invited paper resulting from the “Understanding Complex Systems” conference held at the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign, May 2005
TG2: Player That Dictates the Rules in Cancer Progression

Resistance to systemic therapy and metastasis is the most devastating feature of cancer, which accounts for more than 90 % of cancer-related deaths. A clear understanding of molecules that contribute to the development of drug resistance and metastasis could offer promising biomarkers for early stratification of aggressive tumors as well as therapeutic targets for effective control and treatment of the disease. Genetic changes are considered essential for cancer development, but they are not sufficient to cause disease progression. Early-stage tumors (e.g., ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast or prostate gland), for example, require some ancillary changes to become invasive and to metastasize. Many inflammatory mediators produced in the tumor milieu can induce persistent epigenetic changes that impact processes necessary for generating tumor cell variants with metastatic ability. However, information on how inflammation impacts some master regulator genes involved in invasion and metastasis remains elusive. Here, we summarize current knowledge on a stress-response gene tissue transglutaminase (TGM2), whose expression is aberrantly upregulated in multiple tumor types and is associated with poor survival rates in cancer patients. Chronic expression of TGM2 results in activation of multiple interacting proinflammatory signaling pathways that play fundamental roles in promoting chemoresistance and metastatic competence in epithelial cancer cells.
Neural Representations Supporting Spatial Navigation and Memory

Neural representations of spatial information are substrates for behaviors that range from simple limb movements and basic locomotion to sophisticated navigation through complex environments. The processing of different types of spatial information, including the storage and recall of related neural representations, is integral to the ability to navigate through and interact with the external environment. Finding food, shelter, and potential mates requires an animal to develop an understanding of the spatial relationships between itself and numerous objects and goals within its environment. Two forms of information necessary for spatial navigation are the knowledge of one’s location within an environment and directional heading, or orientation. This information is represented by neural activity distributed over several nuclei within the limbic system and neocortex. Furthermore, the ability to integrate, store, and recall these representations is essential for long-term survival strategies. This chapter discusses the neural representations of spatial location and orientation and how they can contribute to a spatial memory system.
Case Study: Irinotecan (CPT-11), A Water-soluble Prodrug of SN-38

Irinotecan (CPT-11) is a potent anticancer agent approved for use in the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer, as either a first-line therapy in combination with 5-fluorouracil or in the treatment of 5-flurouracil refractory cases (Sawada et al., 1995; Saltz, 1997). Irinotecan is a prodrug designed to deliver the poorly soluble parent molecule SN-38, an analog of a highly potent plant alkaloid camptothecin (CPT). Camptothecin and its analogs inhibit the nuclear enzyme topoisomerase I, inhibiting replication and demonstrating antitumor activity as an S-phase-specific drug (Garcia-Carbonero and Supko, 2002). The structure and enzymatic bioconversion of CPT-11 to SN-38 is shown in Scheme 1.
Optimal treatment for women with a persisting pregnancy of unknown location, a randomized controlled trial: The ACT-or-NOT trial.

Abstract Objective Pregnancy of unknown location (PUL) is not a diagnosis but a transient state used to classify a woman when she has a positive pregnancy test without definitive evidence of an intra-uterine or extra-uterine pregnancy on transvaginal ultrasonography. Management of a persisting PUL varies substantially, including expectant or active management. Active management can include uterine cavity evacuation or systemic administration of methotrexate. To date, no consensus has been reached on whether either management strategy is superior or non-inferior to the other. Design Randomized controlled trial. Setting Academic medical centers. Patients We plan to randomize 276 persisting PUL-diagnosed women who are 18 years or older from Reproductive Medicine Network clinics and additional interested sites, all patients will be followed for 2 years for fertility and patient satisfaction outcomes. Interventions Randomization will be 1:1:1 ratio between expectant management, uterine evacuation and empiric use of methotrexate. After randomization to initial management plan, all patients will be followed by their clinicians until resolution of the PUL. The clinician will determine whether there is a change in management, based on clinical symptoms, and/or serial human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) concentrations and/or additional ultrasonography. Main outcome The primary outcome measure in each of the 3 treatment arms is the uneventful clinical resolution of a persistent PUL without change from the initial management strategy. Secondary outcome measures include: number of ruptured ectopic pregnancies, number and type of re-interventions (additional methotrexate injections or surgical procedures), treatment complications, adverse events, number of visits, time to resolution, patient satisfaction, and future fertility. Conclusion This multicenter randomized controlled trial will provide guidance for evidence-based management for women who have persisting pregnancy of unknown location.
Transparent and Conducting Oxide Films: SiO₂-Doped ZnO.

(SiO₂)x(ZnO)100-x films with x = 2, 3, 4, and 5 wt.% were deposited on slide glass substrates at room temperature by the conventional Rf magnetron sputtering method. Their resistivities were investigated as a function of SiO₂ content. The lowest resistivity of 4.5×10-3 Ω.· cm was obtained for the (SiO₂)x(ZnO)100-x film with x = 2 wt.%. This film showed an excellent average transmittance of 85% in the visible range with a wide band gap over 3.4 eV and a high refractive index of 2.1. In addition, the electrical conductivity of the films was improved by annealing at a temperature films decrease range from 100 °C to 400 °C in vacuum. The resistivities of (SiO₂)x(ZnO)100-x with increasing annealing temperature. In particular, SZO film with x = 2 wt.% shows a minimum resistivity of ~10-3 Ω.cm after the heat treatment for 30 min at 300 °C in vacuum. Thus, we suggest that (SiO₂)x(ZnO)100-x films being sufficiently transparent and having a high conductivity, are suitable for application as transparent and conductive oxide films.
Mechanical Property Characterization of Single Scan Laser Tracks of Nickel Superalloy 625 by Nanoindentation

Laser-based additive manufacturing of metals relies on many micro-sized welds to build a part. A simplified, well-studied case of this process is a single scan of the laser across a single layer of powder. However, there is a lack of mechanical property measurements of the tracks produced in such experiments. Nanoindentation measurements on laser track cross sections of nickel superalloy 625 reveal hardness differences between the track melt pool and base material as well as variations with laser scan speed. There is a change from ≈5.5 GPa in the track melt pool to ≈4.8 GPa in the base material for laser settings of 195 W and 800 mm s−1. In comparison, the increase in hardness in the melt pool is not observed for settings of 195 W and 200 mm s−1. It is believed that the difference in thermal histories supported by thermographic measurements causes a difference in the dislocation density in the melt pool. This results in a difference in hardness between the two tracks. The effects of the local crystal orientation, dendritic spacing, and residual stress are considered in the interpretation of results.
Simultaneous High Data Rate Communication and Highly Efficient Wireless Power Transfer Through a Coplanar Link

A coplanar link consisting of a Conformal Strongly Coupled Magnetic Resonant (CSCMR) system for a unified wireless power transfer (WPT) and high data rate communication is proposed in this paper. The proposed system has the ability to simultaneously transmit power with high efficiency (i.e., 75% efficiency) and high data rate (i.e., 3 Mbps). Different parameters that affect the resonant frequency of CSCMR are investigated and reported. The proposed topology is designed to operate at 120 MHz, with an achieved bandwidth of 7 MHz.
The distribution of body fluids in congestive heart failure. II. Abnormalities in serum electrolyte concentration and in acid-base equilibrium.

Thedistribution ofvalues ofserum concentrations ofsodium, chloride, potassium, andtotal carbon dioxide werestudied ina large groupofpatients withcongestive heart failure, andcompared with thevalues ina smaller group ofnormal subjects usedascontrols. Thedepression ofsodium and chloride concentration, andtheelevation oftotal carbon dioxide content were evaluated interms ofrenal function andmercurial therapy. In11ofthecaseswithhigh serum contents oftotal carbon dioxide theacid-base equilibrium was precisely defined bymeasurement ofpHincutaneous wholeblood andcalculation ofthepressureofcarbon dioxide andoftheconcentration ofbuffer base. T HE PLASMA orserumofblood isthe mostreadily sampled portion ofthebody fluids. Itwouldtherefore seemlogical to begin aninvestigation ofdisturbances indistribution ofwaterandelectrolytes inany clinical condition byobserving theconcentrationofsomeoftheprincipal electrolytes in plasmaorserum. Sucha survey inpatients withcongestive heart failure isthesubject of this report, andisthefirst stepinastudyof someoftheproblems outlined inthepreceding paper.'
Identifying words that emerge into consciousness: Effects of word valence and unconscious previewing

Abstract Words with negative valence capture attention and this increase in attentional resources typically enhances perceptual processing. Recently, data using continuous flash suppression (CFS) appear to contradict this. In prior research when Chinese words were unconsciously presented in CFS and contrast was raised until the word was identified, RTs to identify words with negative valence were slower than RTs to words with neutral valence. This result might be limited to situations where a logographic writing system is used and could reflect a type of cognitive aftereffect where previewing the word causes habituation. Data (N = 60) indicate that results generalize from a logographic (Chinese) to an orthographic writing system (English). In addition, when words were previewed in CFS RTs were slowed for words with negative valence relative to words with neutral valence and this was reversed when words were shown binocularly. Implications for theories of unconscious word processing and cognitive aftereffects are discussed.
The intersection of bronchoscopy and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Central airway obstruction (CAO), which results from malignant, benign or iatrogenic etiologies, causes significant morbidity and mortality and can be seen in both the pediatric and adult patient population. Patients frequently present to the hospital with dyspnea, stridor, and respiratory distress, indicating impending respiratory failure. Heliox is used to help alleviate symptoms while procedural planning takes place. A multidisciplinary approach to airway management is often needed. Interventional pulmonologists treat CAO with rigid of flexible bronchoscopy in order to deliver therapeutic interventions under general anesthesia. In severe CAO where there is concern for total loss of the airway creating a life-threatening situation for the patient during procedural intervention, short term extracorporeal membrane oxygenation or ECMO has been successfully reported in the literature to provide ventilation and oxygenation support throughout the procedure. Venoarterial ECMO can be used to augment cardiac output in cases of central tumors with cardiac involvement. ECMO can also be used for the removal of tracheal stents when there is a concern that ventilation will be interrupted for a prolonged period of time. ECMO has also been reported as a salvage measure for patients with life threatening hemoptysis until more definitive interventions can be performed. Short term ECMO cannulation can be used with limited associated morbidity and a heparin-free approach can be pursued when there is a concern for bleeding. We will briefly review the anesthetic considerations in CAO as well as review cases of CAO where ECMO was employed to safely alleviate the airway compromise.
Analysis of the OITE Oncology Section: An Updated Review of Years 2013 to 2019.

Objectives The importance of the Orthopaedic In-Training Examination (OITE) is well documented. The purpose of this study is to provide an updated analysis of the oncology section compared to the review by Frassica et al. from 2002 to 2006, as a means to provide insight into more focused resident study. Design This study is a retrospective database review using published OITE exams from years 2013 to 2019. Methods were based off a previous review by Frassica et al. where oncology-related questions were analyzed for underlying diagnosis, benign versus malignant condition, imaging and histology provided, and genes/translocations tested. Questions were classified by category and taxonomy. Results Oncology-related questions per exam ranged from 19 (7%) to 23 (8.4%) of total questions, which is fewer than years 2002 to 2006. Twenty malignant and 27 benign entities were tested with malignant conditions tested at a higher rate of 1.3:1 versus benign. Eighteen combinations of imaging modalities were provided for analysis versus 11 from 2002 to 2006. With regard to taxonomy, the average number of questions per classification ranged from 2.4 to 5.4. The least common classification tested was treatment modality and the most commonly tested classification was treatment from diagnosis (taxonomy 3). Previously, tumor knowledge (taxonomy 1) was most tested with an average of 8.8 questions per exam. 12 questions were directly related to genes and translocations across all years. Conclusions Oncology questions made up a smaller percentage of the OITE exam than previous years, although more conditions were tested using more imaging combinations, necessitating a wider range of knowledge. However, malignant conditions continue to be tested more commonly. There has been a shift toward Taxonomy 3 level questions, indicating a higher level of thought processing required from residents as opposed to recall. Additionally, genes and translocations became more commonly tested throughout the most recent analysis, indicating a focus for future years of study.
Heterogeneous creep deformation behavior of functionally graded transition joints (GTJs)

Dissimilar metal welds (DMWs) made between ferritic steels and austenitic alloys are used extensively in high-temperature power plant components. These DMWs experience premature creep failure in the ferritic steel’s heat affected zone (HAZ), close to the weld interface. Steep variations in microstructure and chemical composition across the dissimilar weld interface have been the contributing factors for the failure. Graded transition joints (GTJs), developed by functionally grading the chemical composition in layers, have been proposed as potential candidates to replace DMWs. In this research, GTJ coupons were fabricated between 2.25Cr-1Mo steel and Alloy 800H base material using two filler materials: (i) Inconel 82 and (ii) P87. These samples were aged at 600°C for 2000h to accelerate high-temperature microstructural evolution seen in service conditions, before subjecting them to short-term (~1 month) creep tests. Surface strains were measured using digital image correlation (DIC) technique to extract creep strain rates at different locations within GTJs. Both the GTJs exhibited heterogeneous creep strain distribution. Creep strain accumulated in the FGHAZ of 2.25Cr-1Mo steel, similar to type IV failure associated with Cr-Mo steel weldments. Microstructure based creep model framework was developed to describe the discrete creep strain rates observed in various 2.25Cr-1Mo steel regions of GTJs.
Widening Socioeconomic Disparities in Pain and Physical Function Among Americans Are Linked with Growing Obesity.

Objectives: We investigate whether obesity accounts for widening socioeconomic disparities in pain. Methods: Based on nationally representative samples of Americans aged 25–74 in 1995–1996 and 2011...
UniPose+: A unified framework for 2D and 3D human pose estimation in images and videos.

We propose UniPose+, a unified framework for 2D and 3D human pose estimation in images and videos. The UniPose+ architecture leverages multi-scale feature representations to increase the effectiveness of conventional backbone feature extractors, with no significant increase in network size and no postprocessing. Current pose estimation methods heavily rely on statistical postprocessing or predefined anchor poses for joint localization. The UniPose+ framework incorporates contextual information across scales and joint localization with Gaussian heatmap modulation at the decoder output to estimate 2D and 3D human pose in a single stage with state-of-the-art accuracy, without relying on predefined anchor poses. The multi-scale representations allowed by the waterfall module in the UniPose+ framework leverage the efficiency of progressive filtering in the cascade architecture, while maintaining multi-scale fields-of-view comparable to spatial pyramid configurations. Our results on multiple datasets demonstrate that UniPose+, with a ResNet or SENet backbone and waterfall module, is a robust and efficient architecture for single person 2D and 3D pose estimation in images and videos.
A six-valued logic for representing incomplete knowledge

A novel six-valued logic useful in representing incomplete knowledge is introduced. A practical advantage of this logic is that it allows a system to reason progressively about what it will or will not know (or what can or cannot happen) as time advances and further knowledge is acquired from the external world. Applications of this approach to deductive question-answering systems, as well as to decision-making and planning under time constraints, are investigated. A rule-based inference model based on the six valued logic has been built for this purpose. The results of this research indicate that an extension of the classical definition of modus ponens based on designated truth values would be a useful rule of inference. >
Implementation of rapid HIV testing programs in community and outreach settings: perspectives from staff at eight community-based organizations in seven U.S. cities.

a SYNOPSIS Objectives. The goals of this research were to evaluate perceptions of staff about the effectiveness of methods used by eight community-based organiza- tions (CBOs) to implement human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) counseling and rapid testing in community and outreach settings in seven U.S. cities, and to identify operational challenges. Methods. A survey was administered to CBO staff to determine their percep- tions about the effectiveness of methods used to select testing venues, pro- mote their testing programs, recruit people for testing, provide test results, and link HIV-positive people to health care. Using a Likert scale, respondents rated the effectiveness of methods, their agreement with statements about using mobile testing units (MTUs) and rapid HIV test kits, and operational challenges. Results. Most respondents perceived the methods they used for selecting testing venues, and particularly using recommendations from people receiv- ing testing, to be effective. Most respondents also thought their promotional activities were effective. Respondents believed that using MTUs improved their capacity to reach high-risk individuals, but that MTUs were associated with sub- stantial challenges (e.g., costs to purchase and maintain them). Programmatic challenges included training staff to provide counseling and testing, locating and providing confirmatory test results to people with reactive rapid tests, and sustaining testing programs. Conclusions. CBO staff thought the methods used to select venues for HIV testing were effective and that using MTUs increased their ability to provide testing to high-risk individuals. However, using MTUs was expensive and posed logistical difficulties. CBOs planning to implement similar programs should take these findings into consideration and pay particular attention to training needs and program sustainability.
Influence of the oviduct on sperm capacitation in the rabbit.

In an effort to evaluate the influence of the oviduct on sperm capacitation in vitro fertilization of freshly-ovulated rabbit ova was used to assay the fertilizing ability of spermatozoa. New Zealand white rabbits were used. 9 1/2 hours after injection of human chorionic gonadotrophin half the animals had fimbriae of both tubes resected; 2 hours later the ovaries were excised and the ova in cumulus removed from the surface of the ovaries. Half the animals serving as donors of uterine spermatozoa had their oviducts removed; half were intact. Both had spermatozoa recovered from their uteri 6-48 hours after mating. Study technique is detailed. Studies of 617 ova showed best fertilization rates when spermatozoa had remained in the uteri 16-18 hours. Spermatozoa recovered from capacitators without oviducts produced similar cleavage rates as those with intact oviducts. Results indicate that spermatozoa can be capacitated in the uterus of rabbits without oviducts but it is possible that part of the capacitation normally takes place in the oviducts. Others have shown capacitation takes longer by several hours with the uterotubal junction ligated than when this junction is patent. Ova were fertilized by spermatozoa recovered from the uterus after 8 hours but not by those recovered after 6 hours. In the present experiment spermatozoa recovered from the uterus 36 hours postcoitus were still able to fertilize ova.
On Aristotelianism and Structures as Parts

Aristotelian substance theory tells us that substances have structures (read: forms) as proper parts. This claim has recently been defended by Kathrin Koslicki who dubbed it the ‘Neo-Aristotelian Thesis.’ Strangely, Aristotelianism has not yet been universally embraced by philosophers – partly because some of its claims, such as the Neo-Aristotelian Thesis – are viewed by some as counterintuitive at best. In this paper, I argue for Aristotelianism by showing its philosophical usefulness: specifically, I put it to use in saving the metaphysical doctrine of endurantism and some central mereological doctrines (such as Transitivity) from recent attacks. This utility gives us reason to endorse Aristotelianism. Along the way, I defend Koslicki's argument for the Neo-Aristotelian Thesis from a recent criticism, thus helping provide still more reason to endorse Aristotelianism: namely, Koslicki's vindicated argument.
Differential DNA binding of nuclear proteins to a long terminal repeat region of the MCF13 and Akv murine leukemia viruses.

Abstract Long terminal repeat (LTR) sequences of murine leukemia viruses (MLVs) have been demonstrated to be mainly responsible for the pathogenic differences in these retroviruses. A region of the LTR which is downstream of the enhancer elements has been shown to contribute both to enhancer activity as well as to disease specificity of MLVs. We have identified protein-DNA complexes generated by this region of a lymphomagenic MLV (MCF13) and one which is nonpathogenic (Akv). One protein-DNA complex we have observed for this region is unique to MCF13 DNA sequences. Detection of protein involved in this unique MCF13 complex in different cell lines revealed that it was ubiquitous.
F-RISC/G: AlGaAs/GaAs HBT standard cell library

A standard cell library for implementing Rensselaer's fast reduced instruction set computer (F-RISC/G) project with Rockwell's AlGaAs/GaAs heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) technology is presented. The processor is targeted at an instruction cycle time of 1.0 ns. Differential current mode logic (CML) is used, and unloaded gate delays are 15-20 ps. >
Performance Comparison of Heuristic Combinatorial Alorithms For Seismic Inversion

Heuristic combinatorial algorithms search for optimum solutions in a large or global solution domain in an intelligent way. The algorithms to be discussed in this work are: the genetic algorithm, simulated annealing, the greedy algorithm and the modified stochastic hillclimbing. For seismic inversion process, the results show that all the algorithms obtain a reasonable inverted pseudovelocity log. However, the computational efficiencies differ significantly. The study shows that the modified stochastic hillclimbing method have the ability to adjust the a priori pseudo-velocity or impedance probability distribution function. Because these algorithms only require the probability distribution function to initialize the solution and constraint the solution, they do not require running the inversion starting from the surface or from some stable layer.
Realization of a Functional Cell for Quantum-Dot Cellular Automata

This paper presents an experimental demonstration of a basic cell of the quantum-dot cellular automata, a transistorless approach to computation that addresses the issues of device density, interconnection, and power dissipation. The device under study was composed of four metal dots, connected with tunnel junctions and capacitors, and operated at <50 mK. Operation was evidenced by switching of a single electron between output dots controlled by a single electron switching in input dots, demonstrating a nonlinear, bistable response.
Microstructology: The Realistic and Quantitative Description of Microstructural Evolution

Microstructology embodies an approach to the description of the geometric state of microstructures, and the processes by which they evolve, which strives to be realistic and quantitative. This viewpoint explicitly recognizes that microstructures are three-dimensional (3D), space-filling, not-regular, not-random geometric entities. Their description should be framed in terms of geometric concepts that have unambiguous meaning for real 3D microstructures. These fundamental geometric concepts are reviewed along with the stereological methodology that permits their quantitative estimation. This realistic and quantitative attitude can also be applied to the description of the evolution of microstructures in processing by applying a set of geometrically general kinematic equations. These concepts are illustrated for four processes: precipitate growth, coarsening, sintering and grain growth.
Recurrence of a choroidal neovascular membrane in a patient with punctate inner choroidopathy treated with daily doses of thalidomide.

Purpose To determine whether thalidomide therapy can prevent a recurrence of a choroidal neovascular membrane in a patient with punctate inner choroidopathy. Methods Case report. In a 38-year-old woman with bilateral punctate inner choroidopathy, thalidomide therapy was initiated three days after laser photocoagulation of a choroidal neovascular membrane. Results The patient had a recurrence of the choroidal neovascular membrane eight months after the start of thalidomide therapy. Conclusions The failure of thalidomide to prevent a recurrence of a choroidal neovascular membrane in this patient suggests that this medication may have only a limited benefit in preventing recurrences of choroidal neovascular membranes.
A transcription-initiating mutation within a structural gene of the tryptophan operon☆

Abstract Spontaneously arising mutants, designated trpE R , result in the loss of trpE gene function, and simultaneously confer partial constitutivity on the trp operon of E. coli . The mutational defect in the E R strain has been characterized as a single, small alteration; transduction crosses with deletion and point mutants place the altered site in the operator-distal region of the trpE gene. On the basis of genetic analyses, it appears that the remainder of the genetic material of the trp operon of the E R strain is unaltered, since the regions responsible for normal operator, promoter and the other structural genes of the operon can be separated from the E R strain. Furthermore, the capacity for normal functioning of these elements in messenger RNA and enzyme synthesis is demonstrable in the E R strain. The E R mutant reverts spontaneously to prototrophy (frequency ~ 2 × 10 −8 ), but reversion is not induced by 2-aminopurine, nitrosoguanidine, ethylmethane sulphonate or ICR. Reversion to prototrophy has always been observed to result in loss of the constitutivity of E R . No effect on the properties of E R are observed in the presence of suppressors of the nonsense codons UAG, UAA, or UGA. The constitutivity of E R is cis -dominant, and is not influenced by the introduction of a strong polar mutation preceding it in the E gene; thus constitutivity is not mediated by a nascent or released altered product of the E gene. Constitutivity is clearly the result of the internal initiation of transcription at or near the E R altered site, as proved by hybridization studies of trp messenger RNA synthesis. This point is confirmed by the lack of dependence of expression upon derepression of the operator, and in part by the indifference of constitutivity to the presence of a nonsense mutation within the operator-proximal region of the E gene. Initiation at the E R locus alone (in an operator-repressed cell) shows an efficiency which is 30 to 50% of the maximum value observed for operator-controlled initiations (in a trpR − cell under steady-state conditions). No repression of the E R initiations was detected ha cells grown in very rich medium.
Towards mimicking natural protein channels with aligned carbon nanotube membranes for active drug delivery

Abstract Aims Carbon nanotube (CNT) membranes offer an exciting opportunity to mimic natural protein channels due to 1) a mechanism of dramatically enhanced fluid flow 2) ability to place ‘gatekeeper’ chemistry at the entrance to pores 3) the ability for biochemical reactions to occur on gatekeeper molecules and 4) an ability to chemically functionalize each side of the membrane independently. Main methods Aligned CNT membranes were fabricated and CNT pore entrances modified with gatekeeper chemistry. Pressure driven fluid flow and diffusion experiments were performed to study the mechanisms of transport through CNTs. Key findings The transport mechanism through CNT membranes is primarily 1) ionic diffusion near bulk expectation 2) gas flow enhanced 1–2 orders of magnitude primarily due to specular reflection 3) fluid flow 4–5 orders of magnitude faster than conventional materials due to a nearly ideal slip-boundary interface. The transport can be modulated by ‘gatekeeper’ chemistry at the pore entrance using steric hindrance, electrostatic attraction/repulsion, or biochemical state. The conformation of charged tethered molecules can be modulated by applied bias setting the stage for programmable drug release devices. Significance The membrane structure is mechanically far more robust than lipid bilayer films, allowing for large-scale chemical separations, delivery or sensing based on the principles of protein channels. The performance of protein channels is several orders of magnitude faster than conventional membrane materials. The fundamental requirements of mimicking protein channels are present in the CNT membrane system.
TEMPERATURE-TRANSFORMING MODEL FOR BINARY SOLID-LIQUID PHASE-CHANGE PROBLEMS PART II: NUMERICAL SIMULATION

Abstract The model and numerical scheme developed in Part I were first verified with upward freezing experiments of an NH4Cl-H2O solution on a cold isothermal surface. Then, two-dimensional convection problems with different buoyancy terms in binary solid-liquid phase-change systems were studied. Finally, the model was used to simulate the solidification of an aqueous ammonium chloride solution in a rectangular cavity. The comparison of the results obtained from the present studies with the experimental and numerical results from the literature revealed a good agreement.
Cortical influences on sizes and rapid plasticity of tactile receptive fields in the dorsal column nuclei.

The cerebral cortex influences subcortical processing. In the somatosensory system, descending cortical inputs contribute in specific ways to the sizes and plasticity of tactile receptive fields (RFs) in the thalamus, but less is known about cortical influences on these aspects of brainstem RFs. The present studies evaluated how loss of cortical inputs affects sizes and plasticity of RFs in the brainstem dorsal column nuclei (DCN) when peripheral inputs were normal and when peripheral inputs were acutely disrupted. Loss of cortical inputs was produced by acute lesion of somatosensory, motor, and adjacent cortex, whereas disruption of peripheral inputs was produced by cutaneous microinjection of lidocaine (LID). Modest or no changes in sizes of DCN RFs, comparable to changes during control periods of no treatment, were seen in response to cortical lesion. LID caused rapid enlargements in RFs when cortex was intact. LID also caused rapid RF enlargements after cortical lesion, and these enlargements were greater than post-LID enlargements when cortex was intact. These results indicate that normally sized RFs continue to be produced in the DCN after loss of cortical input. Cortex is also not required for RF enlargements after LID; however, cortical inputs have a constraining effect on these enlargements. Considered with findings from previous thalamic studies, these results suggest that cortical influences on RF size and plasticity in the DCN and thalamus differ in some respects. J. Comp. Neurol. 489:241–248, 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
An Exploratory Study Using Science eTexts With Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Supported electronic text (eText), or text altered to provide support, may promote comprehension of science content for students with disabilities. According to the Center for Applied Special Technology, Book Builder™ uses supported eText to promote reading for meaning for all students. Students with autism spectrum disorder experience difficulty comprehending science content because of the extensive amount of background knowledge required in conjunction with difficulties understanding abstract and figurative language. Investigations on the most effective methods for reading comprehension and teaching science to this population are equally limited. In this pilot study, feasibility was supported in high levels of treatment fidelity and teacher- and student-reported satisfaction. A multiple probe across participants with an embedded ABCD design was used to evaluate various modifications of Book Builder™ on measures of vocabulary, literal comprehension, and application questions. Considerations for students ...
Pseudo almost periodic solutions to some differential equations

Abstract This paper is concerned with the pseudo almost periodic solutions to the abstract differential equations of the form: d d s w ( s ) = Aw ( s ) + Bw ( s ) + f ( s ) ( * ) , where A , B are densely defined closed linear operators acting in a Hilbert space H , and f : R ↦ H is a H -valued pseudo almost periodic function. Using the theory of the invariant subspaces for unbounded linear operators, we show that every bounded solution to ( * ) is a pseudo almost periodic function.