cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evolving Mixtures of n -gram Models for Sequencing and Schedule Optimization

In this paper, we describe our work on Estimation of Distribution Algorithms (EDAs) that address sequencing problems, i.e., the task of finding the best ordering of a set of items or an optimal schedule to perform a given set of operations. Specifically, we focus on the use of probabilistic models that are based on n-gram statistics. These models have been used extensively in modeling statistical properties of sequences. We start with an EDA that uses a bigram model, then extend this scheme to higher-order models. However, directly replacing the bigram model with a higher-order model often results in premature convergence. We give an explanation on why this is the case along with some empirical support for our intuition. Following that, we propose a technique that combines multiple models of different orders, which allows for smooth transition from lower-order models to higher-order ones. Furthermore, this technique can also be used to incorporate other heuristics and prior knowledge about the problem into the search mechanism.
Can the Dispersal Behavior of Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) Inform the Use of Insecticide-Treated Netting to Mitigate Homeowner Issues From its Fall Invasion?

Brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stal) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is a serious agricultural pest and can be a significant nuisance when it invades human dwellings during its fall dispersal to overwintering sites. Methods informed by behavioral data to exclude or reduce its entry into buildings are needed. The temporal and spatial distribution of adults on an invaded building was assessed over multiple years, revealing its seasonal dispersal pattern and that its numbers varied by wall aspect. Moreover, its density was higher in recessed doorways than on associated walls, raising questions about its behavioral response to dark, contrasting surfaces. This response was evaluated using black, framed panels of deltamethrin-incorporated netting, non-treated netting, and an open frame with no netting, deployed in pairs on the wall of a private residence. More dispersing adults landed on panels of non-treated netting than on open panels, but there was no difference between panels with treated and non-treated netting. Adults remained on treated panels for less time than on non-treated panels, and most walked rather than flew from both. Adult male and female H. halys collected during the dispersal period were exposed to panels of treated and non-treated netting in a laboratory, using durations derived from field recordings. Exposures to treated panels intoxicated but did not kill them over a 7-d assessment period. The deployment of insecticide-treated netting, guided by the behavior of adult H. halys alighting on buildings, is discussed in relation to potential options to mitigate homeowner issues from this serious annual problem.
Astrocyte Elevated Gene-1 Regulates Macrophage Activation in Hepatocellular Carcinogenesis

Chronic inflammation is a known hallmark of cancer and is central to the onset and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hepatic macrophages play a critical role in the inflammatory process leading to HCC. The oncogene Astrocyte elevated gene-1 (AEG-1) regulates NFκB activation, and germline knockout of AEG-1 in mice (AEG-1-/-) results in resistance to inflammation and experimental HCC. In this study, we developed conditional hepatocyte- and myeloid cell-specific AEG-1-/- mice (AEG-1ΔHEP and AEG-1ΔMAC, respectively) and induced HCC by treatment with N-nitrosodiethylamine (DEN) and phenobarbital (PB). AEG-1ΔHEP mice exhibited a significant reduction in disease severity compared with control littermates, while AEG-1ΔMAC mice were profoundly resistant. In vitro, AEG-1-/- hepatocytes exhibited increased sensitivity to stress and senescence. Notably, AEG-1-/- macrophages were resistant to either M1 or M2 differentiation with significant inhibition in migration, endothelial adhesion, and efferocytosis activity, indicating that AEG-1 ablation renders macrophages functionally anergic. These results unravel a central role of AEG-1 in regulating macrophage activation and indicate that AEG-1 is required in both tumor cells and tumor microenvironment to stimulate hepatocarcinogenesis.Significance: These findings distinguish a novel role of macrophage-derived oncogene AEG-1 from hepatocellular AEG-1 in promoting inflammation and driving tumorigenesis. Cancer Res; 78(22); 6436-46. ©2018 AACR.
Turbulent Prandtl number in the atmospheric boundary layer - where are we now?

Abstract First-order turbulence closure schemes continue to be work-horse models for weather and climate simulations. The turbulent Prandtl number, which represents the dissimilarity between turbulent transport of momentum and heat, is a key parameter in such schemes. This paper reviews recent advances in our understanding and modeling of the turbulent Prandtl number in high-Reynolds number and thermally stratified atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) flows. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that there are strong linkages between the mean flow properties such as the turbulent Prandtl number in the atmospheric surface layer (ASL) and the energy spectra in the inertial subrange governed by the Kolmogorov theory. Such linkages are formalized by a recently developed cospectral budget model, which provides a unifying framework for the turbulent Prandtl number in the ASL. The model demonstrates that the stability-dependence of the turbulent Prandtl number can be essentially captured with only two phenomenological constants. The model further explains the stability- and scale-dependences of the subgrid-scale Prandtl number in large-eddy simulation. The connections between mean flow properties and microscale energy distributions shed novel insights into the breakdown of Monin-Obukhov similarity theory under strongly stable conditions.
Abstract WP142: Baseline and Demographic Factors Associated With Improvements in Physical Activity, Cognition and Mood: Preliminary Data from the Bugher Foundation’s Stroke and Exercise Study

Background: The Bugher Stroke and Exercise Study examines the impact of a structured exercise and cognitive training program after stroke. In this preliminary analysis we investigated baseline pred...
Deer Browsing Influences Population Dynamics of the Ozark Baltimore Checkerspot (Euphydryas Phaeton Ozarkae: Nymphalidae)

White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) have been shown to be detrimental to a number of Lepidoptera. Potential host plants for specialist butterfly species can be reduced and removed from native areas through deer browsing. The Ozark Baltimore Checkerspot (Euphydryas phaeton ozarkae) is a univoltine nymphalid butterfly endemic to the Ozark regions of Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. In the area around the Buffalo River in Arkansas, the larval host for this butterfly is Smooth Yellow False Foxglove (Aureolaria flava). We examined the timing and quantified the effect that deer foraging had on A. flava in four E. p. ozarkae populations. Browsing occurred in late spring and reduced plant availability by as much as 87% over a two-month period. Browsed plants lost an average of 44 cm in height; data show taller plants were more likely to be browsed than shorter ones. Extensive herbivory caused early-fall-active and late-spring-active larvae to contend with reduced host plant availability, which likely resulted in increased mortality. We also found that browsed plants were less likely to be selected for oviposition. The amount of plant loss appeared to be associated with deer abundance and area attributes (i.e., slope, human activity, plant density, etc.). We found that browsing by White-tailed Deer that is too intense or prolonged can have important consequences for the Ozark Baltimore Checkerspot.
Current Practices in Central Venous Catheter Position Confirmation by Point of Care Ultrasound: A Survey of Early Adopters

ABSTRACTPurpose:Although routine chest radiographs (CXR) to verify correct central venous catheter (CVC) position and exclude pneumothorax are commonly performed, emerging evidence suggests that this practice can be replaced by point of care ultrasound (POCUS). POCUS is advantageous over CXR because
Training Programs for Paraprofessionals

The importance of paraprofessionals within the mental health field can hardly be overestimated. Paraprofessionals constitute the single largest category of mental health staff; there are an estimated 145,000 paid paraprofessionals in all mental health facilities throughout the country including more than 10,000 in community mental health centers (James, 1979). These figures represent 50.4% and 29.6% of the full-time equivalent positions in these agencies, respectively. Moreover, the number of part-time volunteers participating in helping programs probably exceeds the number in permanent staff positions. Paraprofessionals have become so extensively and intimately involved in the mental health field that the effective delivery of services, particularly in community mental health centers, is often predicated on paraprofessional personpower. Indeed, many of the community projects described elsewhere in this volume rely heavily on paraprofessional change agents.
Novel Pyrene Excimer and Fluorogenic Probe for the Detection of Alkylating Agents.

A pyrene-containing salicylic acid derivative (4) was found to be low in fluorescence, but its derivative pyrene-containing methyl salicylate (3) was found to be highly fluorescent in aqueous solut...
Inverse Relationship of BMI to TSH and Risk of Papillary Thyroid Cancer in Surgical Patients

Abstract Background Obesity and thyroid cancer has increased in recent decades. Thyroid malignancy is linked with elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, which may have a positive association with body mass index (BMI). This study examines obesity and TSH level effect on papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) risk in a surgical population. Methods A retrospective review of prospectively collected data for 991 patients who underwent thyroidectomy at a single institution was performed. Patients were stratified according to BMI into three groups: nonobese (18.5-29.9 kg/m2), obese (30-39.9 kg/m2), and morbidly obese (≥40 kg/m2). Further subdivisions into benign and malignant outcomes based on final pathology were compared with preoperative TSH levels. Subanalyses according to sex were also performed. Results Of 517 patients with PTC, rate of malignancy (ROM) decreased (55% versus 48% versus 41%, P Conclusions Higher BMI correlates with decreased PTC rates and lower TSH levels and suggests other factors may be involved in thyroid tumorigenesis. Obese patients with thyroid cancer should not be managed differently compared with nonobese patients.
Telestroke Program Participation and Improvement in Door-To-Needle Times

Background: Telestroke can provide indispensable expert stroke care for rural hospitals. The Stroke Telemedicine for Arizona Rural Residents program was developed in 2006 by Mayo Clinic to provide ...
An ontogenetic framework for functional studies in the model fern Ceratopteris richardii.

As the sister group to seed plants, ferns are a phylogenetically informative lineage. Functional studies in representatives of the fern lineage are helping bridge the knowledge gap in developmental mechanisms between angiosperms and non-vascular plants. The fern life cycle has the advantage of combining a sizable free-living haploid gametophyte, more amenable for developmental studies than the reduced seed plant gametophyte, with an indeterminate and complex diploid sporophyte. Ceratopteris richardii has long been proposed as a model fern and has recently become tractable due to stable transgenesis and increasing genomic resources, allowing researchers to test explicit questions about gene function in a fern for the first time. As with any model system, a detailed understanding of wild-type morphology and a staged ontogeny are indispensable for the characterization of mutant phenotypes resulting from genetic manipulations. Therefore, the goal of this study is to provide a unified reference ontogeny for this emerging model fern as a tool for comparative evolutionary and developmental studies. It complements earlier research by filling gaps in major stages of development of the haploid gametophyte and diploid sporophyte generations, and provides additional descriptions of the shoot apical meristem and early leaf development. This resource is meant to facilitate not only studies of candidate genes within C. richardii, but also broader ontogenetic comparisons to other model plants.
Neuromuscular weakness syndromes from immune checkpoint inhibitors: A case series and literature review

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs) (anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4, anti-programmed death 1, and anti-programmed death-ligand 1) have transformed the landscape of cancer therapy. However, their increasing use has unleashed immune-related adverse events in various organs, among which neurologic ones, while rare, are increasingly being recognized and remain incompletely characterized. Herein, we report five patients with nonmelanoma cancers who developed weakness after receiving CPIs. The etiology was attributed to radiculoneuritis (one patient), myositis (one patient), Miller Fisher/myasthenia gravis (MG) (one patient), neuropathy/myositis/MG (one patient), and myositis/MG (one patient). Weakness developed after a median of two doses (range: 1–3) and 4 weeks (range: 3–10) from initiation of therapy. Two patients had severe manifestations without improvement while the other three experienced partial improvement despite discontinuation of the CPI (s) and initiation of immunosuppressive therapy. A review of literature identified 62 similar cases. This report highlights the challenges in the diagnosis and management of neurologic adverse events related to the use of CPIs. It also addresses the crucial need for early recognition, proper workup, and better biomarkers to help improve the outcomes of these adverse events.
Irreversible toxic inclusion body anemia; a rarely recognized syndrome; clinical and experimental studies.

1. "Inclusion bodies," distinguishable from the Howell-Jolly bodies, were observed in the red blood cells of a patient with a severe refractory fatal anemia, who had been receiving erythrol tetranitrate over a period of one year. 2. "Bodies" with similar staining characteristics were reproduced in cats with large oral doses of erythrol tetranitrate and other nitrates. These were generally accompanied by a temporary fall in the red cell count, followed by recovery upon withdrawal of the drug.
Current Status of AMOEBA-IL: A Multipolar/Polarizable Force Field for Ionic Liquids.

Computational simulations of ionic liquid solutions have become a useful tool to investigate various physical, chemical and catalytic properties of systems involving these solvents. Classical molecular dynamics and hybrid quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) calculations of IL systems have provided significant insights at the atomic level. Here, we present a review of the development and application of the multipolar and polarizable force field AMOEBA for ionic liquid systems, termed AMOEBA–IL. The parametrization approach for AMOEBA–IL relies on the reproduction of total quantum mechanical (QM) intermolecular interaction energies and QM energy decomposition analysis. This approach has been used to develop parameters for imidazolium– and pyrrolidinium–based ILs coupled with various inorganic anions. AMOEBA–IL has been used to investigate and predict the properties of a variety of systems including neat ILs and IL mixtures, water exchange reactions on lanthanide ions in IL mixtures, IL–based liquid–liquid extraction, and effects of ILs on an aniline protection reaction.
Relationship of Barbell and Dumbbell Repetitions With One Repetition Maximum Bench Press in College Football Players.

ABSTRACT Heinecke, ML, Mauldin, ML, Hunter, ML, Mann, JB, and Mayhew, JL. Relationship of barbell and dumbbell repetitions with one repetition maximum bench press in college football players. J Strength Cond Res 35(2S): S66-S71, 2021-Dumbbell training to augment barbell training is gaining popularity. However, information is lacking that details the compatibility of strength and endurance between dumbbell and barbell performances in the same exercise. Therefore, the purposes of this study were to compare the similarity of muscular endurance performance between dumbbell and barbell exercises and to assess the accuracy of predicting one repetition maximum (1RM) barbell bench press from barbell and dumbbell repetitions to fatigue (RTF). College football players (n = 40) performed 1RM barbell bench press and RTF with a 90.9-kg barbell. On separate days, unilateral (45.5 kg) and bilateral dumbbell (90.9 kg) RTF were performed. Barbell RTF (13.8 ± 9.2) were significantly greater (effect size [ES] = 0.14) than bilateral dumbbell RTF (12.5 ± 9.5) but highly correlated (r = 0.96). Unilateral dumbbell RTF were significantly greater (ES = 0.13) for dominant hand (10.8 ± 10.1) than nondominant hand (9.5 ± 9.7) but highly correlated (r = 0.97). Prediction of 1RM barbell bench press was equally effective using a constant weight barbell (r = 0.90) or equivalent weight bilateral dumbbells (r = 0.87) with total errors of 7.3 and 8.2%, respectively. Barbell and dumbbell repetitions with equivalent weights place a similar demand on the upper-body musculature for training and testing purposes in football athletes.
Modern Philosophical Views of Self

The three foundational philosophical Self questions are again the focus. Modern views investigated include many and varied accounts of (1) Self-Constitution; and (2) the Self that one is concerned with when one is concerned with one’s survival. Under each of these two categories there are a few views that feature evolutionary considerations—Agency views, for example, and an account owing to S. Buss highlighting the Self with respect to constraints of minimal human flourishing. This chapter also explores a number of Classic Thought Experiments designed to reveal the nature of Self—Body-Brain Exchange (B. Williams); Closest Continuer (Nozick); Tele-transporting with Percentage change (Parfit)—experiments which will be adapted for empirical Experimental Philosophy studies in Chapter 7.
Compassionate embryo transfer: physician practices and perspectives.

Objective To assess reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI) physicians’ basic knowledge of compassionate embryo transfer, current practices, and perceived barriers to offering compassionate transfer. Design Cross-sectional survey study. Setting Not applicable. Patients Not applicable. Intervention None. Main Outcome Measures Number of physicians offering and performing compassionate transfer, barriers, beliefs and demographics of physicians. Results A total of 744 members of the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility were sent the survey, and 202 (27.1%) responded. Of the 168 (83.2%) physicians who had heard of compassionate transfer, 75 (44.6%) had offered it. In all, 130 physicians stated that they would offer compassionate transfer if there was patient demand, and 74 would offer it if there were American Society for Reproductive Medicine guidelines. Among physicians who did not offer compassionate transfer, 97 cited lack of patient interest as a barrier. In all, 55 physicians had performed compassionate transfer (range 0−8) performed within the past 2 years. The majority of physicians (76.4%) placed embryos in the endometrium, and there was no consensus on timing. Of the physicians, 27 restricted the number of embryos transferred. Three physicians reported pregnancies following compassionate transfer; none were ectopic. Conclusion Data from this survey suggest that REI physicians have a wide range of knowledge and practices concerning compassionate transfer. Individual practices should be encouraged to develop written protocols regarding the use of embryos for nonreproductive purposes. American Society for Reproductive Medicine should develop recommendations to standardize the practice of compassionate transfer for those physicians who plan to offer this procedure.
Denatonium benzoate bitter taste perception in chronic rhinosinusitis subgroups.

BACKGROUND Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), and aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) have varying levels of inflammation and disease severity. Solitary chemosensory cells (SCCs) are enriched in nasal polyps, are the primary source of interleukin 25 (IL-25) in upper airways, leading to type 2 inflammation, and are activated by bitter-tasting denatonium benzoate (DB). Thus, we sought to evaluate DB taste perception at a range of concentrations in order to identify 1 that most differentiates CRS subgroups from controls. METHODS CRSsNP (n = 25), CRSwNP (n = 26), and AERD (n = 27) patients as well as controls (n = 25) tasted 6 DB concentrations in a fixed, random order, rating on a category scale of 0 (no intensity) to 12 (extremely intense). Sinonasal epithelial cultures were treated with and without denatonium and analyzed for IL-25 via flow cytometry. RESULTS CRSsNP patients rated DB as significantly less intense than did controls at all concentrations: 5.62 × 10-9 M, 1.00 × 10-8 M, 1.78 × 10-8 M, 3.16 × 10-8 M, 5.62 × 10-8 M, and 1.00 × 10-7 M (all p < 0.0083). CRSwNP patients did not show significant differences from controls. AERD patients rated DB as significantly more intense than did controls at concentrations of 1.00 × 10-8 M and 3.16 × 10-8 M (p < 0.0083). In vitro data demonstrated significant increase in IL-25-positive cells after denatonium stimulation (n = 5), compared to control (n = 5) (p = 0.012). CONCLUSION Our findings link in vitro DB stimulation of sinonasal tissue with increased IL-25 and show differential DB taste perception in CRS subgroups relative to the control group, with CRSsNP being hyposensitive and AERD being hypersensitive. We propose a concentration of 3.16 × 10-8 M for future study of clinical utility.
Thermal Infrared Spectral Imagers Based on Graphene-Loaded Slot Antennas

We propose a compact thermal infrared spectral imager comprising a meta-surface composed of subwavelength-spaced graphene-loaded slot antennas. We establish a model for the antennas’ properties and simulate a metasurface with broadband efficient absorption.
О приватизации государственной собственности

The process of privatizing state-owned property assets such as agricultural or manufacturing enterprises is considered in the paper. An optimal timing model is employed to investigate the question of the best time to privatize a state-owned property asset. Beyond the optimal timing question, the author also analyses the simultaneous question of the optimal amount of new fixed investment that should accompany privatization. In both cases, comparative static analysis is employed to determine how fluctuations in net income streams before and after privatization and tax rates that apply to land and capital improvements affect the optimal timing and capital investment decisions. The results provide important insights for the design of privatization policies.
Postpartum vertebral artery dissection: case report and review of the literature.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are associated with vascular complications, including ischemic stroke and cervical artery dissection. Vertebral artery dissection (VAD), however, is rare. We describe a 31-year-old female who presented with vertigo, nausea, and vomiting and was found to have a VAD. In addition, we discuss the presentation, differential diagnosis, and pathogenesis of this uncommon but clinically significant vascular event and summarize other cases of vertebral artery dissection described in the medical literature. A 31-year-old Hispanic woman presented 10 days postpartum with a one-day history of vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and frontal headache. The patient’s pregnancy course had been complicated by preeclampsia, chorioamnionitis, and iron-deficiency anemia, and her delivery was complicated by acute hemorrhage. Physical examination was significant for left leg ataxia. Laboratory studies showed marked thrombocytosis. Emergent computed tomography (CT) scan of the head was obtained and revealed a left cerebellar ischemic large vessel stroke. Subsequent CT angiography of the head and neck showed a left VAD. Based on correlation of the clinical history and laboratory and imaging findings, a diagnosis of vertebral artery dissection secondary to reactive (secondary) thrombocytosis from overlapping iron-deficiency anemia and acute hemorrhage was established. The patient was started on a heparin infusion and experienced significant improvement after a four-day hospitalization. VAD is a rare but important cause of neurologic symptoms in the postpartum period and should be considered in the differential diagnosis for women who present with headache and/or vertigo. Women aged 30 years or older and those with a history of a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy are at particularly high risk. Prompt diagnosis and management of VAD is essential to ensure favorable outcomes.
Blockchain technology in healthcare: Challenges and opportunities

Patients and healthcare practitioners are faced with the challenge of accessing, managing, integrating, and sharing health records securely. Patients should be able to manage their health records a...
Neurological Functional Connectivity in Unilateral Coronal Synostosis: A Side-Based Comparison.

Purpose Unicoronal synostosis (UCS) has been associated with reading, language, and social dysfunction. Limited brain function connectivity studies exist for UCS with none devoted to comparing outcomes by side of synostosis (left versus right-sided UCS). Methods Twelve patients with surgically treated UCS, 7 right-sided and 5 left-sided, were age matched to healthy controls. Resting state functional MRI was acquired in a 3T Siemens TIM Trio scanner (Erlangen, Germany). Data was collected with intrinsic connectivity distribution and seed-connectivity analysis using BioImage Suite (Yale School of Medicine). Region of interest analysis was performed based on Brodmann areas related to emotional, executive, language, motor, and visuo-spatial function. Significance was set at P Results Compared to controls, all UCS patients demonstrated decreased connectivity in areas of the parietal and temporal cortices responsible for visuo-motor coordination and language function. Right UCS patients demonstrated decreased intrinsic connectivity in regions related to complex motor movement and proprioception relative to control subjects. Left UCS patients demonstrated decreased seed connectivity between regions of the parietal lobe and occipital lobe related to motor coordination, visual function, and language compared to right UCS patients. Conclusion Unicoronal synostosis had decreased functional connectivity in regions associated with memory, visual information processing, and motor function. Moreover, left-sided UCS had decreased connectivity in circuits for motor coordination and language when compared to right-sided UCS. This study provides data suggestive of long-term sequelae of UCS that varies by sidedness, which may be responsible for neurocognitive impairments found in previous cognitive analyses.
Meeting the Perinatal Palliative Care Needs of a Region: Development of a Novel Palliative Care Consultative Program with a Children’s Hospital Fetal Medicine Clinic

Families facing life-limiting fetal diagnosis benefit from palliative care consultation. Differing models of perinatal palliative care (PPC) programs exist in a variety of academic and community-based medical systems to provide medical, social and family-centered care during pregnancy complicated by life-limiting fetal diagnosis. We describe the development of a novel PPC consultative program within a children’s hospital multidisciplinary fetal medicine clinic. Program Goals: Through referral from obstetric specialists, we actively partner with maternal providers within our region to ensure that principles of pediatric palliative care are explored and employed for each mother-infant dyad without …
Misery Implicitly Loves Company: Implicit Homophily and Bully Victimization:

This study focuses on the formation of bullied individuals’ friendships and romantic relationships. Individuals bullied in their past may be more likely to form connections with those who share sim...
Anisotropic Electron Transport in Metallic Multilayers

This paper discusses the measurement of anisotropy in electron diffusivities in metal lic multilayers, and its importance in understanding the interfacial scattering in such materials. It is argued that this measurement should be more easily related to the the structure of the multilayer through appropriate theoretical analysis, than are conventional measurements of the temperature and modulation wavelength dependence of the resistivity. A new technique for measuring transport anisotropy, one using the phenomenon of Weak Localization (WL), is introduced. The technique involves precise measurements of the low temperature magnetoresistance of a multilayer for two different orientations of the applied field (parallel, and perpendicular to the film plane). Measurements in which this technique is applied to Cu/Si multilayers are described, and the need for additional theoretical work in this area is pointed out.[1]
Studies on the structure and binding properties of the cysteine-rich domain of rat low affinity nerve growth factor receptor (p75NGFR).

Abstract The binding domain of p75NGFR contains four "repeats" of a 6-cysteine pattern. To test whether these repeats have any structural or functional independence, each repeat has been separately deleted. In each case, deletion led to the loss of most nerve growth factor (NGF) binding activity. The epitopes of two monoclonal antibodies, MC192 and 271c, could be distinguished, however. Repeat IV was found to be unnecessary for binding MC192, whereas Repeat I was not required for binding 217c. This suggests that either terminal repeat can be removed without loss of native-like structure in the remaining repeats. Trp155 in the fourth repeat forms an essential part of the 217c epitope but is not required for either MC192 or NGF binding. Deletion of the linker region between the membrane-spanning domain and the cysteine-rich domain does not affect the binding of NGF or MC192, and has only a slight, if any, effect on 217c binding. Cyclic permutation of the four repeats failed to yield protein capable of binding NGF or MC192.
Antidumping Laws: A Bright Future for a Bad Idea

This paper reviews the evolution of antidumping laws, the negative effects they have had on trade, and the recent changes in these laws that resulted from the Uruguay Round. The author then focuses on the human rights abuses that are inherent in any antidumping law regime and concludes that the only way to stop such abuses is to abolish the antidumping laws, the sooner the better.
Automatic synthesis of CMOS RF front-ends

An automatic synthesis tool for RFIC design is demonstrated. The tool incorporates built-in numerical simulators for fast evaluation of the performance metrics. Nonlinearity is modeled using Volterra series method. The tool additionally provides the dimensions of the on-chip inductors along with their values. To validate this approach, a low noise amplifier (LNA) at 900MHz is synthesized using a 0.35/spl mu/m CMOS process. The synthesis results are verified with the simulation data, obtained from Cadence SPECTRE circuit simulator.
Drugs that Suppress Proliferation

Microtubules are polymeric filaments composed of α-Tubulin/β-Tubulin hetero-dimers. Their complex polymerization dynamics are crucial to their key role in cell division. Microtubules are also a major component of the mitotic spindle that separates chromosomes during mitosis. Hence, the inhibition of microtubules can slow the proliferation of cancer cells. Several families of compounds that interact with the Tubulin subunits, thereby disrupting the microtubule dynamics involved in mitosis, have potent anti-cancer activity.
Determination of Bilirubin in Amniotic Fluid A New, Simple, and Efficient Method

A simple, speedy, and efficient method is described for the quantitative determination of unconjugated bilirubin in amniotic fluid. The method makes it possible to use an uncentrifuged sample and to detect as little as 0.00125 mg of bilirubin per 100 ml of amniotic fluid without interference by hemoglobin. The analysis can easily be completed in 30 min. Bilirubin is completely separated from all contaminants, except in samples that are grossly contaminated with meconium. If such interference is absent only one reading, at one wavelength, is necessary; a scanning spectrophotometer is therefore not required.
Bits and Relative Order from Residues, Space Efficiently

For each k, let P_k be the product of the first k primes. By the Chinese remainder theorem, each integer in the interval [0, P_k) is determined by its residues modulo these k primes. We address the problems of space-efficiently computing the bits and the relative order of such numbers from their residues.
Stellar Properties of Pre-Main-Sequence Stars from High-Resolution Near-Infrared Spectra

We present high-resolution (R = 50,000) spectra at 2.2 ?m of 16 young stars in the ??Ophiuchi dark cloud. Photospheric features are detected in the spectra of 11 of these sources, all Class II young stellar objects. The five featureless spectra consist of two Class I, two Class I.5, and one Class II. One star, GSS 29, is identified as a spectroscopic binary based on radial velocity variations. The radial velocities for the remaining sample are consistent with 12CO and H2CO gas velocities and further confirm the membership of the sources in the ??Oph cluster. For the 10 spectroscopically single Class II sources, we measure effective temperatures, continuum veiling, and v sin i rotation from the shapes and strengths of atomic photospheric lines by comparison with spectral synthesis models at 2.2 ?m. We measure surface gravities in two stars from the integrated line flux ratio of the 12CO line region at 2.3 ?m and the Na I line region at 2.2 ?m. Although the majority (8/10) of the Class II stars have similar effective temperatures (3530 ? 100 K), they exhibit a large spread in bolometric luminosities (a factor of ~8), as derived from near-IR photometry. In the two stars for which we have surface gravity measurements from spectroscopy, the photometrically derived luminosities are systematically higher than the spectroscopic luminosities. The spread in the photometrically derived luminosities in our other sources suggests either a large spread in stellar ages or nonphotospheric emission in the J band since anomalous and significant veiling at J has been observed in other T Tauri stars. Our spectroscopic luminosities result in older ages on the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram than are suggested by photometry at J or K. Most of our sources show a larger amount of continuum excess (FK ex) than stellar flux at 2.2 ?m (FK*), substantially higher in many cases (rK ? FK ex/FK* = 0.3?4.5). The derived veiling values at K (rK) appear correlated with mid-IR disk luminosity and with Brackett ? equivalent width, corrected for veiling. The derived v sin i rotation is substantial (12?39 km s-1), but systematically less than the rotation measured in Class I.5 (flat) and Class I sources from other studies in Ophiuchus. In four stars (Class I and I.5 sources), the absence of any photospheric lines is likely due to large continuum excess and/or rapid rotation if the stars have late-type photospheres.
Precision Density Determination of Large Single Crystals by Hydrostatic Weighing

In connection with a study of crystal imperfections, the density of Si, quartz, Ca${\mathrm{F}}_{2}$, CsI, Ge, TlCl, TlBr, and polycrystalline Al have been determined by an hydrostatic weighing method using ethylene bromide as the immersion liquid. Random and systematic errors have been discussed and the present accuracy of the order of ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$ reached.
A critical performance pedagogy that matters

Some think of ethnography as a journey, others see it as a destination. With Ellis and Bochner, I want an autoethnography that shows struggle, passion, an embodied life that embraces a social justice agenda. Critics want to tame ethnography, categorize it, place it under the control of reason and logic. I want an unruly ethnography fractured, a mosaic of sorts, layered performance texts, messy, a montage, part theory, part performance, multiple voices, a performance with speaking parts: a critical performance ethnography that makes a difference in the world.
An Introduction to Issues of Gender in Stalking Research

Stalking research has increased substantially in the past 20 years. This special issue is intended to contribute to this literature by using gender as a focus point in 1) applying new theoretical perspectives that incorporate the role of gender to the study of stalking perpetration (Davis et al. 2010; Duntley and Buss 2010), 2) addressing divergent findings regarding gender in experiences of victims (Sheridan and Lyndon 2010) and perpetrators (Thompson et al. 2010), and 3) furthering the study of how gender influences perceptions of stalking (Cass and Rosay 2011; Dunlap et al. 2011; Sinclair 2010; Yanowitz and Yanowitz 2010). To place this special issue in context of the current state of knowledge on gender and stalking, we review the state of the existing research as it relates to the domains covered by articles present in this issue.
Performance of hotel real estate investment trusts: a comparative analysis of Jensen indexes

Abstract This empirical study investigated the performance of hotel real estate investment trusts (REITs) over the 1993–1999 period in comparison with the overall market and six other REIT sectors. The Jensen Index was employed to measure the performance of each REIT sector relative to the market portfolio. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted and the Tukey multiple comparison method was used to enable performance comparisons across the REIT sectors. The results indicate that hotel REITs carried the highest market risk as compared to other REIT sectors. The risk-adjusted return of hotel REITs was in line with that of the overall market. Moreover, as a portfolio, the hotel REIT sector underperformed office, industrial, and diversified REIT sector. In terms of individual stock performance, the average performance of hotel REITs was inferior to those of office, industrial, residential, and diversified REITs. These findings suggest that a conservative growth strategy accompanied by an internally oriented financing policy may help lower hotel REITs’ risk and improve their return, thus improving their risk-adjusted performance.
Use of fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography for the differentiation of cerebral lesions in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome.

Intracranial mass lesions comprise approximately half of all acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)–related neurological complications. Although toxoplasmosis and lymphoma are the most common causes of these lesions, diagnosis and treatment can be delayed because computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging studies cannot accurately differentiate between them. The authors retrospectively studied nine patients with AIDS in whom, after a 6-hour fast, [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)–positron emission tomography (PET) scanning demonstrated intracranial mass lesions. The FDG uptake within each lesion was classified as either increased or not increased. In six patients there was no increase in FDG uptake, which suggested a diagnosis of toxoplasmosis, and lymphoma was suggested in two patients in whom increased FDG uptake was demonstrated. In a patient with two lesions, one lesion was shown to have increased FDG uptake whereas the other was shown to have no increased FDG uptake. All patients in whom...
Predation risk assessment by green frog ( Rana clamitans ) tadpoles through chemical cues produced by multiple prey

Many prey assess predation risk through predator chemical cues. Numerous studies have shown that (1) prey sometimes respond to chemical cues produced by heterospecifics and (2) that many species are capable of associative learning. This study extends this research by focusing on predation risk assessment and antipredator behavior in environments containing chemical cues produced by multiple prey species. The results show that green frog (Rana clamitans) tadpoles (1) assess risk from the chemical cue produced during predation by a heterospecific (gray tree frog, Hyla versicolor, tadpoles) and (2) can exhibit similarly strong behavioral responses to a mix of conspecific and heterospecific cues compared to conspecific cue alone, depending on their conditioning environment. I then discuss how the prey choice of the predators and the relative abundances of the prey species should influence the informational value of heterospecific cues.
Influence of public affairs offices on corporate planning and of corporations on government policy

This article reports the findings of an extensive study of the process by which corporations manage their external affairs. The major portion of the data is drawn from the responses to a ten page questionnaire sent to 1000 of the largest corporations in the U.S.A. With a response rate of over 40 per cent, this is the largest database yet assembled with respect to the management of external affairs. The author has determined that the influence of public affairs offices varies considerably from industry to industry and from company to company, and this article identifies the factors which correlate strongly with a high degree of influence. In addition, the article identifies the factors which correlate strongly with a high degree of corporate influence in Washington.
Analysis of global pressure relaxation for flows with strong interaction and separation

Abstract A global or pressure relaxation formulation for the reduced form of the Navier-Stokes equations, frequently referred to as semi-elliptic or partially parabolized or just “parabolized” Navier-Stokes (PNS), ‡ is presented. Difference procedures and relaxation solutions for the ( u , v , p ) system are described. The continuity equation is satisfied exactly at each grid point and a poisson pressure equation is not required explicitly. Several model problems, e.g. finite flat plate, trough, boattail and airfoil, are considered. Strong pressure interaction is evident in each case and axial flow separation occurs for several of the problems. The questions of accuracy, stability, convergence rate, and implied difference forms of the pressure and vorticity equations are addressed. Solutions for laminar and turbulent modelling are presented.
Recent advances in the study of zebrafish extracellular matrix proteins

The zebrafish extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic and pleomorphic structure consisting of numerous proteins that together regulate a variety of cellular and morphogenetic events beginning as early as gastrulation. The zebrafish genome encodes a similar complement of ECM proteins as found in other vertebrate organisms including glycoproteins, fibrous proteins, proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans, and interacting or modifying proteins such as integrins and matrix metalloproteinases. As a genetic model system combined with its amenability to high-resolution microscopic imaging, the zebrafish allows interrogation of ECM protein structure and function in both the embryo and adult. Accumulating data have identified important roles for zebrafish ECM proteins in processes as diverse as cell polarity, migration, tissue mechanics, organ laterality, muscle contraction, and regeneration. In this review, I highlight recently published data on these topics that demonstrate how the ECM proteins fibronectin, laminin, and collagen contribute to zebrafish development and adult homeostasis.
Synthetic Human Antibodies: Selecting and Evolving Functional Proteins

Abstract Phage display of antibody fragments provides a convenient format for directed molecular evolution of this biologically important protein architecture. Current understanding of the natural evolution of antibodies in vivo has allowed their synthesis and selection in vitro. Synthetic antibodies have been demonstrated to utilize the same mechanisms of molecular recognition as those used by natural antibodies. The ability to produce synthetic human antibodies that bind any antigen should eliminate the need for animals in the production of monoclonal antibodies. Furthermore, synthetic antibody libraries selected in the phage display format allow the preparation of antibodies that are not limited by tolerance mechanisms or to simple binding functions. Finally, methods have been developed for the mechanism-based selection of catalytic antibodies. Refinement of this method of molecular selection should allow the laboratory evolution of catalytic proteins.[ep [rs
New Theoretical Perspectives on Molecular Shape Resonances: Feshbach-Fano Methods for Mulliken Orbital Analysis of Photoionization Continua

Recent progress is reported in theoretical, computational, and semiempirical studies of shape resonances in the partial photoionization cross sections of diatomic and polyatomic molecules. A multi-channel Feshbach-Fano formalism is described which is particularly well suited for the analysis of resonance ionization channels. The development allows calculations in non-degenerate point-group-symmetry scattering waves, provides compact expressions for partial-channel cross sections, and gives generalized Fanolike absorption lineshapes of parametrizable form. An appropriately selected Q space of zeroth-order molecular configurational states, corresponding to the (σ, σ*) charge-transfer excitations of Mulliken, is seen to account for the appearance of prominent features in the cross sections of simple molecules. These zeroth-order states further provide a basis for understanding and elaborating upon semi-empirically determined correlations between bond lengths and resonance energies in the valence-and K-shell cross sections of linear and quasi-linear molecules. A universal correlation is derived theoretically in these cases which relates resonance energies to effective bond lengths, square-well quantum numbers, and effective potentials, each of which is obtained a priori from elementary considerations. Recent studies of C2H2, C2H4 and C2H6 photoionization cross sections illustrate the complexities that can arise in compounds which exhibit two σ* resonances (C-C and C-H) in some channels. Mulliken configurational states underlying resonance features in these compounds are seen to account satisfactorily for the natures of calculated and measured partial cross sections in the absence of simple square-well correlation behaviour. Connections of the development with conventional computational methods based on K-matrix, S-matrix, or eigenchannel states are indicated, and cautionary remarks are made on the use of well models in describing photoionization resonances.