cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Future climate scenarios project a decrease in the risk of fall armyworm outbreaks

Spodoptera frugiperda, or the fall armyworm (FAW) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is an endemic and important agricultural pest in America. Several outbreaks have occurred with losses estimated at millions of dollars. Insects are affected by climate factors, and climate change may affect geographical range, growth rate, abundance, survival, mortality, number of generations per year and other characteristics. These effects are difficult to project due to the complex interactions among insects, hosts and predators. The aim of the current research is to project the impact of climate change on future suitability for the expansion and final range of FAW as well as highlight the risk of damage due to the pest under current and future conditions. The modelling was carried out using two general circulation models (GCMs), CSIRO Mk3.0 and MIROC-H, for 2050 and 2100 under the A2 Special Report on Emissions Scenarios (SRES), using the known distribution of the species and the CliMond meteorological database. The possible number of generations was estimated to exceed five in the south-eastern USA by 2100. A unique modelling approach linking environmental suitability and number of generations was developed to project the risks of FAW damage. The results show changes in suitability and risk across America, with an increase in the northern hemisphere and decreases or extinction in the southern hemisphere, except for southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and northern Argentina, which indicate high future levels of risk. The current study highlights the possible extinction of a tropical pest in areas near the Equator. The two GCMs both projected increases in the low-risk category of 40% by 2050 and 23% by 2100, with the medium- and high-risk categories decreasing by >50% by 2050 and >39% by 2100, compared with the current risk. In general, agricultural pest management may become more challenging under future climate change and variation, and thus, understanding and quantifying the possible impacts of FAW under future climate conditions is essential for the future economic production of crops.
Computational multispectral video imaging [Invited].

Multispectral imagers reveal information unperceivable to humans and conventional cameras. Here, we demonstrate a compact single-shot multispectral video-imaging camera by placing a micro-structured diffractive filter in close proximity to the image sensor. The diffractive filter converts spectral information to a spatial code on the sensor pixels. Following a calibration step, this code can be inverted via regularization-based linear algebra to compute the multispectral image. We experimentally demonstrated spectral resolution of 9.6 nm within the visible band (430–718 nm). We further show that the spatial resolution is enhanced by over 30% compared with the case without the diffractive filter. We also demonstrate Vis-IR imaging with the same sensor. Because no absorptive color filters are utilized, sensitivity is preserved as well. Finally, the diffractive filters can be easily manufactured using optical lithography and replication techniques.
Nitric Oxide in Cardiovascular Biology and Pathophysiology

During the past 2 decades, our understanding of the role of endothelium-derived nitric oxide (NO) in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis has increased significantly. The physiologic synthesis, secretion, and function of NO form the basis for healthy endothelial function. The endothelium is usually a quiescent monolayer of cells that lines the luminal surface of blood vessels and the heart. Because of its location at the interface between flowing blood and the vascular wall, the endothelium is ideally situated to sense changes in hemodynamic forces and humoral mediators and to respond in a way that maintains structural and functional stability of the vessel. Although endothelial cells secrete several constriction and dilation factors, NO is the most important, particularly in areas of high laminar shear stress such as arterial endothelial beds. However, over time and in the presence of risk factors for atherosclerosis, NO function may become impaired, a feature common to most major cardiovascular disease states in contemporary Western civilization. Dysregulation of NO has been proposed as both cause and consequence of the pathophysiology that accompanies cardiovascular disease. In recent drug intervention studies in humans, therapy targeted toward restoring NO function to normal levels has yielded favorable results, including stabilizing the disease state and reducing events.
Jean Rouch’s Moi, un Noir in the French New Wave

This article highlights the significance of Jean Rouch’s experimental ethnographic film Moi, un Noir (1958) in the genesis of the quintessential New Wave film, A bout de souffle (Jean-Luc Godard, 1...
Retina-specific loss of Ikbkap/Elp1 causes mitochondrial dysfunction that leads to selective retinal ganglion cell degeneration in a mouse model of familial dysautonomia.

ABSTRACT Familial dysautonomia (FD) is an autosomal recessive disorder marked by developmental and progressive neuropathies. It is caused by an intronic point-mutation in the IKBKAP/ELP1 gene, which encodes the inhibitor of κB kinase complex-associated protein (IKAP, also called ELP1), a component of the elongator complex. Owing to variation in tissue-specific splicing, the mutation primarily affects the nervous system. One of the most debilitating hallmarks of FD that affects patients9 quality of life is progressive blindness. To determine the pathophysiological mechanisms that are triggered by the absence of IKAP in the retina, we generated retina-specific Ikbkap conditional knockout (CKO) mice using Pax6-Cre, which abolished Ikbkap expression in all cell types of the retina. Although sensory and autonomic neuropathies in FD are known to be developmental in origin, the loss of IKAP in the retina did not affect its development, demonstrating that IKAP is not required for retinal development. The loss of IKAP caused progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) by 1 month of age. Mitochondrial membrane integrity was breached in RGCs, and later in other retinal neurons. In Ikbkap CKO retinas, mitochondria were depolarized, and complex I function and ATP were significantly reduced. Although mitochondrial impairment was detected in all Ikbkap-deficient retinal neurons, RGCs were the only cell type to degenerate; the survival of other retinal neurons was unaffected. This retina-specific FD model is a useful in vivo model for testing potential therapeutics for mitigating blindness in FD. Moreover, our data indicate that RGCs and mitochondria are promising targets.
Treatment of Subclinical Hypothyroidism in the Infertile Female

Overt hypothyroidism characterized by an elevated TSH accompanied with low free T4 has been associated with oligo-ovulation, pregnancy complications, and adverse fetal neurodevelopment. Subclinical hypothyroidism has been classically defined as an elevated TSH above the laboratory normal value with a normal free T4. Recently, some have advocated lowering the upper limit of normal to 2.5 mIU/L in some patient groups at high risk of hypothyroidism including women with infertility. While subclinical hypothyroidism when defined by the classic definition may be associated with adverse outcomes, data are lacking regarding the impact of TSH between 2.5 and 4 mIU/L with respect to fertility, pregnancy outcomes, or fetal neurodevelopment. In addition, the association between the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibody and infertility or miscarriage is controversial. TSH screening test has become a standard test in the basic evaluation of infertility, and clinicians are obligated to decide how to manage TSH valued between 2.5 and 4 mIU/L without strong evidence in the literature.
Abstract 1088: Defining bone metastatic potential of Abi1 CRISPR prostate cancer cell lines

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in American men, and it is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in American men. Distant stage and metastatic disease is often treated with androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT); however, this treatment ultimately fails, leading to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). This further emphasizes the need for better therapeutic targets. Our work focuses on understanding the role of the Abi1 gene in prostate cancer tumor progression. Our current in vitro data demonstrate an invasive phenotype with our CRISPR-mediated Abi1 knockout (KO) cell lines. In total, using CRISPR-mediated technology we have generated four Abi1 gene KO cell lines, PC-3, DU145, LnCaP, and RWPE-1. Importantly, the androgen-dependent cell line, LNCaP, demonstrated upregulation of Abi1 to the androgen receptor stimulation and the opposite response to the receptor inhibition upon treatment with enzalutamide. These data indicated that low Abi1 level could be induced by ADT therapies and are consistent with our previous observation of low Abi1/WAVE complex in prostate tumor samples. To learn more about this mechanism, we set out to investigate the role of Abi1 in castrated mice. The overall goal of the experiment is to compare the ability of cells lacking the Abi1 gene to engraft in bone under androgen deprivation condition and compare it to the control cells and examine any change in the engraftment phenotype. It is hoped that this research will lead to better understanding of the Abi1/WAVE complex role in CRPC. Supported by NCI R01 CA16101. Citation Format: Alexander Nappi, Dawn Post, Disharee Das, Ishita Joshi, Megan Oest, Gennady Bratslavsky, Leszek Kotula. Defining bone metastatic potential of Abi1 CRISPR prostate cancer cell lines [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 1088.
Pediatric Central Retinal Vein Occlusion and Macular Edema Secondary to Isolated Retinal Racemose Hemangioma

Isolated retinal racemose hemangioma is a rare disorder that may lead to vision loss due to late complications, most commonly central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). We describe the longitudinal cli...
Does polarization affect even the inattentive? Assessing the relationship between political sophistication, policy orientations, and elite cues

Abstract In this paper we focus on how individuals’ level of political sophistication conditions how they respond to growing elite polarization. The party coalitions in the electorate have become increasingly ideologically sorted. We assess whether all citizens have sorted into the ideologically “correct” partisan camp or whether this phenomenon is limited only to the highly sophisticated. Using a combination of ANES and DW-NOMINATE data we show that individuals of all sophistication levels have become more likely to identify with and vote for the party that best matches their policy orientations as a function of increasing elite-level polarization. Our findings suggest that the effects of increasing polarization are felt throughout the electorate.
Current dysphoria, past major depression, and memory for affective facial expressions

Memory for others’ sad affective facial expressions may be relevant to depression risk, given that biases have been linked to major depression and transient sad mood states. However, no study has addressed whether stable, subclinical dysphoria is associated with similar biases, or whether depression history might moderate a relationship between dysphoria and memory for affective facial stimuli. These questions were examined in the present study. Participants completed an incidental encoding task involving sad, happy, and neutral facial expression stimuli, and then they later completed a recognition memory task. Results indicated that dysphoria alone was not associated with memory differences. Rather, past depression moderated the effect of dysphoria such that dysphoric individuals with past depression showed greater recognition memory for sad faces relative to dysphoric/never depressed and nondysphoric/formerly depressed individuals. Findings are partially consistent with cognitive models of depression and could have implications for interpersonal functioning in susceptible or resilient individuals.
Endoscopic transcribriform resection of an olfactory groove meningioma and technical nuances.

This video illustrates a transcribriform resection of a symptomatic olfactory meningioma ([figure 1][1]). The patient described in this video is a 70-year-old man who presented with headaches and dysosmia. He was found to have an expanding olfactory meningioma on radiographic studies. Multiple
The levelized cost of carbon: a practical, if imperfect, method to compare CO2 abatement projects*

ABSTRACTCalculating the cost effectiveness of projects and policies with respect to reducing carbon emissions provides a simple way for local government agencies to consider the climate impacts of ...
Alignment of Theoretically Grounded Constructs for the Measurement of Science and Chemistry Identity.

Identity has been theorized to aid in student persistence within STEM disciplines. In this study, science and chemistry identity were defined as being recognized as a science or chemistry person within the classroom. To generalize the effects that identity has on student persistence, a measurable construct must be defined, operationalized, and tested in multiple settings with different populations. This project addressed the first step in the process, defining the construct and grounding it in an established theoretical framework. This qualitative project utilized a previously described physics identity framework, with sub-constructs of performance/competence, recognition, and interest, as a starting point for the alignment of students’ perceptions of identity to the broader theoretical frameworks of identity. Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted with students from a range of chemistry courses at Portland State University. The interviews consisted of questions pertaining to the sub-constructs of identity. Thematic analysis was used to define emerging themes within student responses. These themes were found to align with an array of affective constructs, including mastery experiences, verbal persuasion, vicarious experiences, situational interest, and mindset. These constructs will be used to develop an identity measure for chemistry education that is grounded in the broader theoretical frameworks of identity.
Brief of Amici Curiae Scholars of Constitutional Law, First Amendment Law, and Media Law in Support of the Defendant in United States v. Terry J. Albury

Amici are seventeen professors whose research and teaching primarily focus on constitutional law, First Amendment law, and media law. The professors have an interest in ensuring the continued operation of a free, fair, and robust press in the United States. The sentencing of Terry Albury requires this Court to determine what criminal punishment should appropriately be imposed on a government employee who disclosed to a journalist information of significant public interest to his fellow citizens. In making that determination, this Court can and should consider the important First Amendment interests at stake. It is for this Court, at sentencing, to craft a punishment that properly weighs the constitutional protection of free speech and the public interest in the newsworthy disclosure at issue in this case against any actual harm to national security caused by Mr. Albury’s act of conscience. To aid the Court in making this determination, amici draw the Court’s attention to several factors that underscore the important interests that should weigh in the sentencing decision.
Disorder-tunable ZnGeP 2 for epitaxial top cells on Si

There has been a longstanding search for top cell materials for Si-based tandems. ZnGeP 2 is one material that could fit this need. It is lattice matched to Si and has the potential for tuning its band gap at fixed lattice constant via cation ordering. In this study, we investigate the effects of growth and annealing conditions on the structure of ZnGeP 2 thin films. Films were deposited amorphous and then annealed ex-situ. Using low anneal temperatures or short anneal times, we were able to kinetically trap the disordered phase. We also found composition to play a role in the degree of ordering in our films. Our findings support the hypothesis that ZnGeP 2 could be implemented as a material with tunable properties at fixed lattice constant through cation ordering.
Investigation on the structural property of the sputtered hcp-phase boron nitride tunnel barrier for spintronic applications

Recently, two-dimensional (2D) materials have attracted considerable interest for use in spintronic applications, especially hexagonal close-packed (hcp)-phase boron nitride (BN) as a tunnel barrier. In this paper, we experimentally investigated the structural properties of a sputtered hcp-BN thin film. By optimizing the experimental conditions, we obtained the stoichiometric BN thin film with a ratio of 1:1 of the Ar/N2 sputtering gas. Then the Co/BN/Co magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) stacks were prepared to study the crystalline structure of the BN tunnel barrier and their epitaxial relationship. We found that the as-deposited BN tunnel barrier layer follows the texture of the bottom Co layer and forms a polycrystalline structure. After the high-temperature treatment of the MTJ stack, texturing of the BN tunnel barrier layer is observed, however, this annealing process makes the BN tunnel barrier noncontinuous and induces serious interdiffusion between layers. These results will open the door for development of spintronic devices based on MTJs with hcp-phase BN tunnel barrier and hcp-phase perpendicular magnetic anisotropy ferromagnetic layer.
ISOLATED SURGICAL TRICUSPID REPAIR VERSUS REPLACEMENT: META-ANALYSIS OF 15,069 PATIENTS

Tricuspid valve disease is increasingly encountered, but surgery is rarely performed in isolation, in part because of a reported higher risk than other single-valve operations. Although guidelines recommend valve repair, there is sparse literature for the optimal surgical approach in isolated
The epidemiology of FIRS in term and late preterm births.

Abstract The definition of FIRS requires systemic inflammation and elevated levels of IL-6 in fetal plasma. That definition does not specify how systemic inflammation is to be recognized, and perinatal measurement of IL-6 is not a standard procedure. FIRS has not been examined in a population-based study that included post-neonatal outcome so its incidence and natural history are not known. The overlap, and similarities and differences, of FIRS as compared with other causes of neonatal encephalopathy, and how these relate to findings in the placenta, have not been jointly examined in a generalizable sample. FIRS has chiefly been discussed in the obstetric literature because of the need for decisions about management of delivery and antibiotic use. If the term “FIRS” is to be employed in other contexts, consensus should be sought as to which clinical, placental, and laboratory findings are most appropriate for identification of perinatal inflammatory processes, infectious or sterile.
Dynamic Algorithms for Online Multiple Testing

We derive new algorithms for online multiple testing that provably control false discovery exceedance (FDX) while achieving orders of magnitude more power than previous methods. This statistical advance is enabled by the development of new algorithmic ideas: earlier algorithms are more "static" while our new ones allow for the dynamical adjustment of testing levels based on the amount of wealth the algorithm has accumulated. We demonstrate that our algorithms achieve higher power in a variety of synthetic experiments. We also prove that SupLORD can provide error control for both FDR and FDX, and controls FDR at stopping times. Stopping times are particularly important as they permit the experimenter to end the experiment arbitrarily early while maintaining desired control of the FDR. SupLORD is the first non-trivial algorithm, to our knowledge, that can control FDR at stopping times in the online setting.
Atlas-independent, N-of-1 tissue activation modeling to map optimal regions of subthalamic deep brain stimulation for Parkinson disease.

Abstract Background Motor outcomes after subthalamic deep brain stimulation (STN DBS) for Parkinson disease (PD) vary considerably among patients and strongly depend on stimulation location. The objective of this retrospective study was to map the regions of optimal STN DBS for PD using an atlas-independent, fully individualized (N-of-1) tissue activation modeling approach and to assess the relationship between patient-level therapeutic volumes of tissue activation (VTAs) and motor improvement. Methods The stimulation-induced electric field for 40 PD patients treated with bilateral STN DBS was modeled using finite element analysis. Neurostimulation models were generated for each patient, incorporating their individual STN anatomy, DBS lead position and orientation, anisotropic tissue conductivity, and clinical stimulation settings. A voxel-based analysis of the VTAs was then used to map the optimal location of stimulation. The amount of stimulation in specific regions relative to the STN was measured and compared between STNs with more and less optimal stimulation, as determined by their motor improvement scores and VTA. The relationship between VTA location and motor outcome was then assessed using correlation analysis. Patient variability in terms of STN anatomy, active contact position, and VTA location were also evaluated. Results from the N-of-1 model were compared to those from a simplified VTA model. Results Tissue activation modeling mapped the optimal location of stimulation to regions medial, posterior, and dorsal to the STN centroid. These regions extended beyond the STN boundary towards the caudal zona incerta (cZI). The location of the VTA and active contact position differed significantly between STNs with more and less optimal stimulation in the dorsal-ventral and anterior-posterior directions. Therapeutic stimulation spread noticeably more in the dorsal and posterior directions, providing additional evidence for cZI as an important DBS target. There were significant linear relationships between the amount of dorsal and posterior stimulation, as measured by the VTA, and motor improvement. These relationships were more robust than those between active contact position and motor improvement. There was high variability in STN anatomy, active contact position, and VTA location among patients. Spherical VTA modeling was unable to reproduce these results and tended to overestimate the size of the VTA. Conclusion Accurate characterization of the spread of stimulation is needed to optimize STN DBS for PD. High variability in neuroanatomy, stimulation location, and motor improvement among patients highlights the need for individualized modeling techniques. The atlas-independent, N-of-1 tissue activation modeling approach presented in this study can be used to develop and evaluate stimulation strategies to improve clinical outcomes on an individual basis.
Spectral discrete dislocation dynamics with anisotropic short range interactions

Abstract Discrete dislocation dynamics models dislocation-mediated plastic deformation and microstructural evolution in solids whilst discretely representing and tracking all line defects present in the medium. Hybrid methodologies for evaluating mechanical fields using continuum approaches while retaining the discrete formalism for evaluating dislocation kinematics and interactions have greatly improved the numerical efficiency of the method. In the present work, we propose a spectrally-based continuum solution of the mechanical fields based on the field dislocation mechanics framework which produces highly accurate elastic fields near dislocation cores in both isotropic and anisotropic media. Application of the model to a few elementary cases (i.e. dislocation junction formation, dislocation migration) show that the model proposed predicts accurate elastic fields both on the short and long range.
RRAM for Compute-in-Memory: From Inference to Training

To efficiently deploy machine learning applications to the edge, compute-in-memory (CIM) based hardware accelerator is a promising solution with improved throughput and energy efficiency. Instant-on inference is further enabled by emerging non-volatile memory technologies such as resistive random access memory (RRAM). This paper reviews the recent progresses of the RRAM based CIM accelerator design. First, the multilevel states RRAM characteristics are measured from a test vehicle to examine the key device properties for inference. Second, a benchmark is performed to study the scalability of the RRAM CIM inference engine and the feasibility towards monolithic 3D integration that stacks RRAM arrays on top of advanced logic process node. Third, grand challenges associated with in-situ training are presented. To support accurate and fast in-situ training and enable subsequent inference in an integrated platform, a hybrid precision synapse that combines RRAM with volatile memory (e.g. capacitor) is designed and evaluated at system-level. Prospects and future research needs are discussed.
Why the cognitive “fountain of youth” may be upstream: Pathways to dementia risk and resilience through social connectedness

Research suggests social connectedness may help older adults with dementia maintain cognitive functionality and quality of life. However, little is known about its specific social and biological mechanisms. This paper proposes two pathways through social bridging (i.e., cognitive enrichment through expansive social networks) and bonding (i.e., neuroendocrine benefits of integration in cohesive social networks). We provide preliminary evidence for these pathways using neuroimaging, cognitive, and egocentric social network data from the Social Networks and Alzheimer's Disease (SNAD) study (N = 280). We found that network size, density, and presence of weak ties (i.e., social bridging) moderated the association between brain atrophy and cognitive function, while marriage/cohabitation (i.e., social bonding) moderated the association between perceived stress and cognitive function. We argue that social connectedness may have downstream implications for multiple pathophysiological processes in cognitive aging, even negating existing structural damage to the brain, making it a strong candidate for clinical or policy intervention.
Genome engineering with CRISPR/Cas9, ZFNs, and TALENs

Abstract Zinc-finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat)-guided endonucleases allow site-specific genomic editing. Each of these technologies has enormous therapeutic potential, and ongoing studies have shown their therapeutic potential in various diseases in both mammalian and human stem cell. These technologies use different methods to introduce a double-strand break at the target DNA site, and subsequent gene disruption or editing, depending on which repair pathway is undertaken. Here, we will review these three genetic engineering techniques, describing and comparing their function, efficacy, and use in recent studies.
Network Graph Theory Analysis of Semantic Fluency in Russian - English Bilinguals (P4.205)

Objective: To compare semantic fluency networks in Russian-English bilinguals using network graph theory to assess the similarity of resultant networks using three analytical methods. Background: Semantic fluency testing is a common neuropsychological tool, and many demographic factors, cognitive status, and language usage in bilinguals affect test performance. Semantic networks may be derived from the naming patterns. Design/Methods: 51 Russian-English bilinguals took the 1-minute animal naming test in both languages. Audiotaped results were translated by a native Russian speaker. Graph theory metrics including clustering coefficients (CC) mean path length (MPL), and small world network metrics (sigma- a measure comparing CC and MPL to random networks with equal node and edge number) were compared between languages. We compared 1) networks using edges whenever words were given consecutively by at least one subject; (Lerner et al., 2009), 2) after transformation accounting for word clustering beyond chance (Goni et al., 2011), and 3) after creating a Planar maximally filtered graph (PMFG; when a planar graph fits on the xy plane with no edge crossings.; Kennett et al., 2013). Results: Subjects produced 144 English words with 579 edges, and 147 Russian words with 662 edges. Russian networks showed lower CC (0.20 vs.0.18) and greater MPL (7.2 vs 7.8). Sigma, was 6.21 vs. 4.97 respectively. Using an alpha=0.05, only 12 English and 10 Russian words showed significant association, mostly farm animals. PMFG networks were similar (English 104 nodes: 423 edges vs Russian 124 nodes: 435 edges), but slightly higher sigma in English (13.19 vs.13.07) Conclusions: Different graph theory analytical methods of semantic fluency are emerging. The results mirror the gradient seen between Normals, MCI and AD suggesting an element of “forgetting” operative as first-acquired language use declines. Small sample size reduced the number of words co-occurring beyond chance. The three methods produce similar results suggesting they reflect basic aspects of semantic fluency. Disclosure: Dr. Mahajan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lissemore has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lerner has nothing to disclose. Dr. Woyczynski has nothing to disclose.
Chunkfs: using divide-and-conquer to improve file system reliability and repair

The absolute time required to check and repair a file system is increasing because disk capacities are growing faster than disk bandwidth and seek time remains almost unchanged. At the same time, file system repair is becoming more common, because the per-bit error rate of disks is not dropping as fast as the number of bits per disk is growing, resulting in more errors per disk. With existing file systems, a single corrupted metadata block requires the entire file system to be unmounted, checked, and repaired--a process that takes hours or days to complete, during which time the data is completely unavailable. The resulting "fsck time crunch" is already making file systems only a few terabytes in size impractical to administrate. We propose chunkfs, which divides on-disk file system data into small, individually repairable fault-isolation domains while preserving normal file system semantics.
An Integrated Genetic Algorithm and Integer Programming Approach to the Network Design Problem with Relays

The network design problem with relays (NDPR) arises in many real-life telecommunication and supply chain networks. Similar to the multi-commodity network design problem, a set of commodities is given, and each commodity k is to be routed through single path from the source node s (k ) to the sink node t (k ). However, an upper bound *** is imposed on the distance that a commodity k can travel on the path from the source node s (k ) to the sink node t (k ) without visiting special nodes, called relays. For example, in digital telecommunication networks, relays represent points where attenuated communication signals are regenerated. A fixed cost of f i is incurred when a node i is dedicated as a relay, and each edge (i , j ) has an installation cost of c i ,j and a length of d i ,j . The NDPR is defined as selecting a set of edges from a given set of candidate edges and determining relay nodes to minimize the network design cost while making sure that each commodity k is routed through a single path on which the distances between the node s (k ) and the first relay, between any consecutive relays, and between the last relay and the node t (k ) are less than the upper bound *** .
Research collaboration tools for the U.S. Department of Defense

America's adversaries have shown their ability to quickly incorporate new technologies that threaten the U.S. and its interests. The Defense Technical Information Center DTIC serves the Department of Defense DoD research and engineering community as the central resource for DoD-funded scientific, technical, engineering, and business information and exchange. Furthermore, DTIC fulfills a key role by producing secure collaborative tools that facilitate a rapid response to current and emerging threats. The new Research & Engineering R&E Gateway created by DTIC, which includes DoDTechipedia, DoDTechSpace, Search and Analytics, and the Information Analysis Centers and Defense Innovation Marketplace, are aimed at enhancing DoD's ability to collaborate across the defense enterprise, identify solutions for technology challenges, and seek ways to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent in an efficient manner. This article will examine the approach taken to develop the collaborative tools, intended goals, challenges to adoption of the sites, and some lessons learned. It will also review how DTIC has provided its registered customers with robust social media tools, albeit limited to the defense community.
Analysis of complement receptors on B-lymphocytes in human milk

Abstract Experiments were performed on human B-lymphocytes in paired samples of milk and blood from the same patient to determine the numbers and percentages of lymphocytes with complement receptors, utilizing the erythrocyte-antibody-complement (EAC) rosette assay. Studies on nine paired samples show the numbers, as well as the percentages, of complement-reactive cells (CRCs) in milk are significantly lower than in blood. Milk lymphocytes were cultured in media containing serum for a 24 hour period to determine if the observed lower numbers of CRCs in milk were due to saturation of the lymphocyte receptors with free complement, as well as to determine if the culture of the cells in nutrient media might result in the reformation of shed complement receptors. Similarly, peripheral blood lymphocytes were incubated in milk supernatant to determine if free complement or other factors in milk might interfere with the EAC assay. These studies support previous findings from this laboratory that B-lymphocytes in milk represent a subpopulation of cells different from those in peripheral blood. The paucity of B-lymphocytes bearing complement receptors in milk may be due to the following: (1) B-lymphocytes in milk may be plasmablasts and/or antibody-producing plasma cells—both known to lack complement receptors; (2) selective processes operating at the mammary alveolar epithelium allowing transit of certain subclasses of maternal immunoglobulins may also allow transepithelial passage of B-lymphocytes with surface immunogiobulins, but no complement receptors. These possibilities are currently being studied.
Full-field detection of surface defects using real-time holography and optical correlation techniques

Innovative optical NDE techniques are being developed for the full-field detection and evaluation of surface defects and defect precursors in titanium and aluminum based alloys. The techniques are based on frequency-translated holography and optical correlation principles, and use bacteriohodopsin (bR) holographic films and temporal correlation techniques for real-time storage and retrieval of Surface Acoustic Waves (SAW) features and embedded surface defect information. The SAW waves induced on the material surface being studied are made to interfere with optical light waves, and fringes are produced that are a function of optical Doppler shifts induced by phonon-photon interaction on the surface of the materials. Visualization of these SAW patterns allow for NDE characterization of features on and near the surface of the materials, including defect and defect precursor sites. Preliminary results are provided for real-time bR holographic recordings of acoustic patterns induced on Al2024-T3 material surfaces.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Divergence or Convergence in the U.S. and Brazil: Understanding Race Relations Through White Family Reactions to Black-White Interracial Couples

Different approaches to race mixture in the U.S. and Brazil have led to the notion that they are polar opposites in terms of race relations. However, the end of de jure segregation in the U.S., the acknowledgement of racial inequality, and subsequent implementation of affirmative action in Brazil have called into question the extent to which these societies are vastly different. By examining race mixture as a lived reality, this study offers a novel approach to understanding racial boundaries in these two contexts. I analyze 87 interviews with individuals in black-white couples in Los Angeles and Rio de Janeiro to examine the cultural repertoires and discursive traditions they draw on to understand white families’ reactions to black spouses. I find that U.S. couples employ “color-blindness” to understand opposition to Blacks marrying into the family. Brazilian couples perceive overt racism and the use of humor from white family members. Nevertheless, couples with black males experienced more hostility in both sites. In addition, white male autonomy was related to the lower hostility that black female-white male couples experienced in both societies. By examining contemporary race mixture as a lived reality, this study complicates simplistic understandings of race relations as similar or different in these two societies. Furthermore, with the increase of multiracial families in both societies, it reveals the family as an important site for redrawing and policing racial boundaries.
Antihypertensive Effect of Cicletanine is Exaggerated in NaCI-Sensitive Hypertension

ABSTRACT Cicletanine (CIC), a furopyridine derivative, lowers blood pressure in hypertensive animals and humans. We have previously identified an NaCl-sensitive substrain of spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR-S) that displays enhanced sensitivity to the depressor effects of exogenous atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) when fed a high NaCl diet. The current study tested the hypotheses that CIC has an exaggerated antihypertensive effect in NaCl-supplemented SHR-S and that this effect might be ANP dependent. CIC (40 mg/kg/day) or vehicle was administered by gavage in a single daily dose for three weeks beginning immediately prior to initiation of 1% or 8% NaCl diets in seven-week-old male SHR-S. CIC significantly decreased mean arterial pressure (MAP) and the ratio of left ventricular and septum weight to body weight (LV + S/BW) in both 8% NaCl- and 1% NaCl-fed SHR-S. The depressor effect of CIC was greater in the 8% NaCl group (—26 mmHg) than in the 1% NaCl group (—13 mmHg). CIC was associated with significant reduction in RAP in the 8% NaCl group but not in the 1% NaCl group. Neither CIC treatment nor 8% NaCl significantly altered plasma ANP or cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP) levels in plasma, aorta, or kidney. CIC was associated with significant decreases in plasma norepinephrine (NE) levels in the 1% NaCl group but not in the 8% NaCl group. The data demonstrate that the antihypertensive effect of CIC is exaggerated in NaCl-sensitive hypertension. The antihypertensive effect of CIC appears not to be related to ANP or cyclic GMP but may be related to a combination of a sympatholytic and natriuretic/diuretic effects in SHR-S.
The Political Economy of Defense Spending in South Korea

The collapse of communism in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, as well as developments surrounding peace talks in the Korean peninsula, have led to public demands in South Korea for reductions in defense spending. Those favoring cutbacks argue that reductions in defense spending will stimulate a 'peace dividend'. The opposition points to the recent nuclear crisis with North Korea as evidence of the need to maintain or even increase current levels of military spending. According to this argument, defense cutbacks are premature in view of existing threats to national security. In this study, I evaluate both sides of the argument by examining the impact of defense spending on economic growth on South Korea. Overall, the results show that military expenditures have no significant, direct effects on economic growth in South Korea.
Computer‐Controlled Random Access Audio in the Comprehension Approach to Second‐Language Learning

A microcomputer controlling a random access audio device is a practical method for providing flexible interactive practice in foreign language listening comprehension. The audio passages available at a given point in a lesson are determined by the lesson author, and can include hints, translations, cultural notes, and slower re-recordings of natural language segments. The particular audio segment played can be determined by the student's response at the computer keyboard. In addition to more traditional drill or tutorial lessons, two innovative lesson types are described: the “interactive story” and “hyper-speech.”
Electrochemical behavior of benzenepolycarboxylic acids on solid electrodes in aqueous and mixed solutions

Electrochemical behavior of biologically active benzenepolycarboxylic (trimellitic, trimesic, pyromellitic, mellitic) acids is studied by a voltammetry method on Pt, Cu, Ta, and Cu-Hg in aqueous media and water mixtures with ethanol and pyridine. In all cases, voltammograms for the acids display waves corresponding to the discharge of hydrogen ions. In the case of Cu-Hg, voltammograms for trimellitic, trimesic, and pyromellitic acids additionally exhibit poorly pronounced prewaves. Concentrations of ionized and non-ionized forms in dilute solutions of the acids are calculated. Apparent dissociation constants K a II and K a III for mellitic acid are calculated from the voltammetry data.
No comfort in the rural South: women living depressed

Despite the widespread notion of the bucolic life in the country, major depressive disorder (MDD) is common among impoverished women in the rural South. Women with MDD seldom get treated because of the paucity of treatment available, the inability to pay for services because of no insurance, and the distance they must travel to reach care. Even if treatment was available, impoverished rural Southern women are unlikely to seek services because of cultural and social prohibitions. These include incongruence between the biomedical model of MDD and sociocultural explanations for its causes and manifestations, stigma, and traditional viewpoints of women that keep them isolated and invisible. Innovative treatment strategies must be devised for these women that are based on local views of MDD and its treatment, and people and monetary resources available in poor rural economies. Needed research with this population include ethnographic studies to gain understanding of the cultural factors associated with MDD and its treatment and evaluation of outreach, and other novel paradigms of rural service delivery including the use of nonprofessional personnel. Although the problems of treatment and research with this population are daunting, there is an opportunity for imagination, innovation, and creativity in devising local solutions to local problems. Copyright 2003, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Effects of Photoperiod on Reproduction, Nymphal Developmental Timing, and Diapause in Amblyomma maculatum (Acari: Ixodidae)

Female engorgement weight, oviposition, and molting times of larvae and nymphs of Amblyomma maculatum Koch (Acari: Ixodidae) were studied at various photoperiods under constant humidity and temperature in the laboratory. Ticks were held at photoperiods of 0:24, 10:14, 12:12, or 14:10 (L:D) h from egg through unfed nymphal stage and then at either the same or a different regime from fed nymphs to adults. No significant effects were observed on oviposition, female engorgement weights, survival, or molting time to unfed nymphs. Nymphal molting times were significantly shorter at the short-day regime (10:14) during the larval stage and 12:12 during the nymphal stage compared with those held at either 14:10 during both life periods or at 0:24 during both life periods. Longer molting times also were observed in ticks held at 12:12 during the larval phase and either 10:14, 12:12, or 0:24 during the nymphal phase compared with 14:10 during both life periods or 0:24 during both life periods. Ticks held at 10:14 during the larval phase and at 0:24 or 10:14 had longer molting times compared with those at 14:10 or 0:24 during both life periods. No differences in survival to either nymphal or adult stages were observed at any regime, and at day 25 no individuals were observed to be in developmental diapause. This study demonstrates that developmental diapause does not seem to be photoperiodically induced in fed nymphal A. maculatum in the laboratory.
Statewide survey of physician attitudes to controversies about child abuse

To assess physician attitudes and practices in controversial areas of child abuse and neglect, anonymous questionnaires were mailed to pediatricians, family practitioners, and emergency medicine physicians in Pima County (Tucson) and Arizona (statewide). The effects of respondent characteristics on responses to each item were analyzed. Three hundred and ninety-three questionnaires (49.3%) were returned. Responses differed according to gender, age, specialty, and practice or training status. Females estimated a higher percentage of adult women had been sexually abused as children (26.6 vs. 21.6, p < .01) and a lower incidence of false accusations, when sexual abuse was alleged in custody disputes (48.1 vs. 56.1, p < .005) than did males. Older physicians were more likely to refer cases of sexual abuse to a specialist, were more concerned about false reports of child abuse, and gave higher estimates of the percentage of adolescent child sexual abuse offenders who could be rehabilitated (54.4 vs. 43.4, p < .05). Pediatricians expected a lower percentage of sexual abuse exams to be positive than did family practitioners (32.6 vs. 40.7, p < .05). Pediatricians were less likely to agree to involvement of Child Protective Services (CPS) in failure to thrive cases or to criminal prosecution of maternal drug use in pregnancy than either family practitioners or emergency physicians. Respondents were uncertain that reporting to CPS would lead to an improvement in the child's welfare. Exposition and explanation of physician attitudes may benefit medical education about child abuse.
Gap junctions couple astrocytes but not neurons in dissociated cultures of rat suprachiasmatic nucleus.

Abstract Individual neurons dissociated from rat suprachiasmatic nucleus can express independently phased circadian firing rhythms in culture. The phases of these rhythms are unperturbed by reversible blockade of neuronal firing lasting 2.5 days, indicating that multiple circadian clocks continue to operate in the absence of conventional synaptic transmission. The possibility remains, however, that these circadian rhythms might depend on some other form of intercellular communication. In the present study, a potential role for gap junctional coupling in SCN cultures was evaluated by introduction of the tracer molecule Neurobiotin into both neurons (n = 98) and astrocytes (n = 10), as well as by immunolabeling for specific connexins, the molecular components of gap junctions. Astrocytes were extensively coupled to each other by connexin43-positive gap junctions, but no evidence was found for coupling of neurons to each other or to astrocytes. These data support the hypothesis that neurons expressing independently phased circadian rhythms in SCN cultures (‘clock cells’) are autonomous, single cell circadian oscillators, but do not exclude a role for glia in synchronizing neuronal clock cells in vivo.