cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The shifting landscape of Arctic politics: implications for international cooperation

AbstractThe landscape of Arctic politics is shifting. Transregional issues have taken on increased prominence, and numerous non-Arctic states are developing a growing interest in Arctic affairs. Increasing tensions between Russia and the West have cast a shadow on the cooperative practices characterizing the work of the Arctic council. There is no shortage of efforts to address needs for governance in the Arctic relating to matters of shipping, fishing, energy development, scientific research and the protection of sensitive ecosystems. But a major challenge is to manage interplay among these discrete developments, avoiding friction and promoting synergy. What we can expect is the growth of an Arctic regime complex encompassing a number of distinct elements that all deal with matters relating to the Arctic but that are not hierarchically related to one another. An important priority in this regard will be to improve the integration of this evolving complex of institutional arrangements. Addressing this cha...
Phenotypic and Functional Analysis of T-Cells Mobilized in HLA-Matched Sibling Donors Following Treatment with the Chemokine Antagonist AMD3100.

We are currently evaluating a novel method for the procurement of peripheral blood stem cells from HLA matched sibling donors using a direct antagonist of the CXCR4/SDF-1 interaction called AMD3100 (A). Donors receive a single subcutaneous injection of A and then undergo a 20 liter leukapheresis (LP) four hours later. The LP product is then cryopreserved and subsequently transplanted following ablative conditioning. To date, we have performed 15 transplants with allografts collected following A alone. In comparison to allografts collected following five days of G-CSF, A mobilized allografts contain approximately 50% less CD34+ cells but 2–3 times more CD3+ cells. Nevertheless, the kinetics of neutrophil and platelet engraftment have been virtually identical to that observed following G-mobilized allografts and grades 2–4 acute GVHD has been observed in only 20% of recipients. We sought to analyze the functional and phenotypic properties of T cells collected following A alone to understand the relatively low rates of acute GVHD despite the transplantation of higher T-cell doses. In 3 donors, extensive T cell phenotyping was performed on donor peripheral blood prior to A, 6 hours following A, and also on the LP product collected after A. Specifically, we were seeking to determine whether any alteration in CD4+ or CD8+ subsets had occurred. We analyzed T-cell subsets using well described markers for central memory, effector memory, naive, and effector memory RA phenotypes. We also assessed expression of CD62L, CD127, CCR7, and SLAM family members (CD48, CD150, and CD244) on both CD4+ and CD8+ cells. The activation status on CD4 and CD8 cells was assessed using markers for CD25, CD30, and CD69. Finally we assessed for quantitative changes in the mobilization of regulatory T cells by assaying the proportion of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ cells mobilized following A. In none of these analyses could we detect any significant alteration in the relative ratios of CD4 or CD8 subsets mobilized by A. Finally, the functional capacity of purified CD3+ cells collected following A was assessed using a NOD/SCID xenogeneic GVHD model we have recently developed. In that model, survival of mice transplanted with A mobilized T-cells was similar to that observed with untreated T cells, suggesting that A mobilized T cells retain their GVHD-inducing capacity. In summary, these preliminary data suggest that AMD3100 induces a “pan-mobilization” of T cell subsets without any apparent skewing toward a particular subset. These studies are in contrast to others suggesting subtle phenotypic and functional changes in donor T cells after mobilization with G-CSF. Further studies evaluating A mobilized allografts are ongoing.
Financialization and the non‐financial corporation: An investigation of firm‐level investment behavior in the United States

Changes in the portfolio and financing behavior of non-financial corporations (NFCs) over the post-1970 period in the U.S. economy point to the financialization of the NFC and raise the question of accompanying changes in fixed investment behavior. Using a firm-level panel, this article econometrically investigates the relationship between financialization and investment, exploring the implications of changes in financing behavior, increasingly entrenched shareholder value norms and rising firm-level demand volatility for NFC investment in the U.S. economy between 1971 and 2013. Shareholder value orientation is, in particular, identified as a characteristic of the post-1970 U.S. economy associated with a statistically and economically significant decline in NFC investment rates. The stock of financial assets, conversely, is found to be a positive correlate of firm investment. The analysis also highlights key differences by firm size. In particular, shareholder value norms are found to primarily influence the investment behavior of large NFCs, while rising volatility most substantially impacts small firms.
Frequency and correlates of sleep disturbance in methadone and buprenorphine-maintained patients

Background Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a significant public health problem, and opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) on methadone or buprenorphine is a common approach. This study characterized sleep impairment in patients maintained on methadone or buprenorphine, and evaluated its association with psychiatric and medical comorbidities.
N-polar GaN MIS-HEMTs on sapphire with a proposed figure of merit f max ·V DS, Q of 9.5THz.V

GaN-based HEMTs have demonstrated outstanding performance in solid-state power amplifiers [1]. Products of f T /f max and three-terminal breakdown voltage are commonly cited to characterize the high frequency performance of power devices [2]. However, such metrics mix the results of small-signal measurements and DC breakdown measurements taken separately and therefore don't consider side effects of high voltage operation on RF performance, such as dispersion, self-heating, and material degradation. To solve this problem, a new figure of merit defined as a product of f max and its associated quiescent drain bias (V ds, q ) is proposed. Exploiting the advantages of the N-polar orientation [3] and the high film quality of MOCVD SiN x passivation layer, a 9.5 THz-V f max ·V DS, Q is achieved in this work and exceeds those of the previously reported planar MIS-HEMTs passivated by PECVD SiN x [4, 5].
Equipping the child welfare workforce to improve the well-being of children

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discuss ways of equipping the child welfare (CW) workforce to improve the well-being of children through graduate education and post-MSW training. Design/methodology/approach This paper analyses the barriers to providing mental health (MH) services to vulnerable children and families and discusses three evidence-based ways of overcoming them. Findings Child and family social workers need to do more than case management if they are to influence the well-being of the children and families they seek to help. A variety of methods is necessary to implement this changed role and three initiatives – Partnering for Success, Motivational Interviewing for Child Welfare Trainees and Training Adoption-Competent Welfare Professionals – show promising results. CW workers can learn to implement evidence-informed MH practices with high fidelity. Research limitations/implications None of the studies are controlled studies. Practical implications The paper offers innovative ideas about workforce implications and implementation strategies. Social implications Abused and neglected children’s well-being is deserving of more effective methods. Originality/value The paper provides details of three innovative evidence-based projects – national models in the USA – concerned with promoting children’s well-being.
Risk of developing pyoderma gangrenosum after procedures in patients with a known history of pyoderma gangrenosum—A retrospective analysis

Background The risk of postoperative pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) in patients with a known history of PG is unknown. Objective To quantify risk and identify patient- and/or procedure-related risk factors for postsurgical recurrence or exacerbation of PG in patients with a known history of PG. Methods We retrospectively evaluated the likelihood of postsurgical recurrence or exacerbation of PG for all patients with a confirmed diagnosis of PG at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital from 2000 to 2015. Results In all, 5.5% of procedures (n = 33) led to recurrence of PG in 15.1% of patients (n = 25). Compared with skin biopsy, small open surgical procedures had an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 8.65 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.55-48.33) for PG recurrence or exacerbation; large open surgical procedures had an aOR of 5.97 (95% CI, 1.70-21.00); and Mohs micrographic surgery/skin excision had an aOR of 6.47 (95% CI, 1.77-23.61). PG chronically present at the time of the procedure had an aOR of 4.58 (95% CI, 1.72-12.22). Immunosuppression, time elapsed since the original PG diagnosis, and procedure location did not significantly influence risk. Limitations Our study is limited by its retrospective nature and relatively small sample size. Conclusion There is a small but clinically meaningful risk for postsurgical recurrence or exacerbation of PG in patients with a known history of PG; higher risks occur with more invasive procedures and chronically present PG.
Theoretical Analyses of Electron-Transfer Reactions

Photosynthetic bacterial reaction centers provide a rich territory for exploring the nature of biological electron-transfer reactions. The crystal structures of reaction centers from two species of bacteria are known, and the structures can be modified by site-directed mutagenesis or by substituting other pigments for the natural bacteriochlorophylls, bacteriopheophytins or quinones. Femtosecond laser excitation pulses of various wavelengths can be used to prepare the initial excited state in a variety of conditions, and the kinetics of the subsequent charge separation and recombination reactions can be measured with extremely high time resolution. Measurements can be made under an extraordinarily wide range of conditions, including low temperatures and the presence of external electrical or magnetic fields. Further, there are many intriguing observations to explain. Several of the reactions occur extremely rapidly and become even faster with decreasing temperature; electron transfer along the active ‘L’ branch of the pigments is much faster than that along the ‘M’ branch; and seemingly drastic changes in the structure sometimes have little effect on the directionality or rates of the reactions. What is it, then, that determines the speed and temperature dependence of an intermolecular electron-transfer reaction in a protein?
INSECT DIETETICS: COMPLEXITIES OF PLANT-INSECT INTERACTIONS

A phytophagous insect which can freely move from one place to another must locate a plant before attempting to feed upon it. Stimulated by Professor Gottfried Fraenkel’s historic paper (Fraenkel, 1959), much excellent work has been done on how insects locate hosts and are repelled by non-host species, often through the effects of various allelochemics. Still another aspect is how suitable the plant is to the insect once it has settled down to feed. The chosen plant must be .capable of supporting growth, development and reproduction, if it is to be a suitable host. The feeding insect must ingest food “that not only meets its nutritional requirements, but is also capable of being assimilated and converted into the energy and structural substances required for normal activity and development” (Beck, 1972; Beck and Reese, 1976). This concept, termed insect dietetics by Beck (1972), is thus considerably broader than classical nutrition which deals with specific nutrient requirements of a species.
Molten Salt Electric Experiment

The design, construction, and checkout of the Molten Salt Electric Experiment has recently been completed at the Central Receiver Test Facility in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This project is a full system demonstration of the use of molten nitrate salts as the receiver heat transfer fluid and also the thermal storage medium in a solar central receiver. Steam is produced to drive a 750 kWe turbine-generator. The Molten Salt Electric Experiment is now entering a 6-month test period of system performance characterization and component reliability verification. During this time, teams of design engineers and power plant operators from the private companies and public utilities who are project sponsors will be trained on-site in the operation of the system. Their feedback will be valuable in the design of future systems. Plans are presently being formulated for future testing and operation of the system which will optimize the technical value of this project.
Image analysis with deep learning to predict breast cancer grade, ER status, histologic subtype, and intrinsic subtype

RNA-based, multi-gene molecular assays are available and widely used for patients with ER-positive/HER2-negative breast cancers. However, RNA-based genomic tests can be costly and are not available in many countries. Methods for inferring molecular subtype from histologic images may identify patients most likely to benefit from further genomic testing. To identify patients who could benefit from molecular testing based on H&E stained histologic images, we developed an image analysis approach using deep learning. A training set of 571 breast tumors was used to create image-based classifiers for tumor grade, ER status, PAM50 intrinsic subtype, histologic subtype, and risk of recurrence score (ROR-PT). The resulting classifiers were applied to an independent test set (n = 288), and accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of each was assessed on the test set. Histologic image analysis with deep learning distinguished low-intermediate vs. high tumor grade (82% accuracy), ER status (84% accuracy), Basal-like vs. non-Basal-like (77% accuracy), Ductal vs. Lobular (94% accuracy), and high vs. low-medium ROR-PT score (75% accuracy). Sampling considerations in the training set minimized bias in the test set. Incorrect classification of ER status was significantly more common for Luminal B tumors. These data provide proof of principle that molecular marker status, including a critical clinical biomarker (i.e., ER status), can be predicted with accuracy >75% based on H&E features. Image-based methods could be promising for identifying patients with a greater need for further genomic testing, or in place of classically scored variables typically accomplished using human-based scoring.
Mediated Skewed Diffusion of Issues Information: A Theory:

The modern media ecology has changed drastically over the last decade yet scholarly theoretical perspectives lag behind lay theories regarding news diffusion making it difficult to fully articulate...
Candida albicans colonization exacerbates skin inflammation in a murine model of psoriasis

In addition to being a primary site of exposure to pathogens, the skin is also home to a complex microbiota that modulate skin immune homeostasis. Notably, our previous work revealed that defined microbes differentially regulate the skin immune landscape. In clinical settings, shifts in skin microbiota composition have been shown in the context of skin inflammatory disorders, such as atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris and psoriasis. However, the precise role of cutaneous microbiota in the initiation, control or promotion of skin inflammatory states remains unclear. To clarify the mechanisms by which the skin microbiota influence host immunity under inflammatory conditions, we focused on psoriasis, a common inflammatory skin disorder mediated by both innate and adaptive immune systems. Murine studies have shown that topical application of imiquimod, a TLR7 agonist, can induce psoriasis-like skin inflammation, mediated by the IL-23/IL-17 axis. Using this experimental model, we found that previous skin association of mice with C.albicans but not other skin microbes (e.g., S.aureus) , significantly enhanced skin inflammation. Notably, C.albicans topical association promoted IL-17A production from CD4+ effector T cells in the skin and skin draining lymph nodes. Our work currently explores how adaptive immunity directed against C.albicans could contribute to the etiology of this important skin disorder. This work aims to define the causative association between defined microbes and the development of skin inflammatory disorders and may allow for the development of tailored clinical interventions aiming at controlling skin microbiota and/or aberrant responses to these microbes.
Improving Startup Performance in Dynamic Binary Translators

A Dynamic Binary Translation (DBT) system dynamically translates program binaries built for a guest platform into code for the host machine that runs the program, one basic block at a time. Even after optimizations, auxiliary tasks performed alongside program emulation by the DBT system introduce performance overheads as compared to executing the program on the native guest platform. In this work, we analyze the extent and causes for a DBT system's startup performance latency. We then focus on understanding and alleviating the program translation cost that is a significant contributor to and disproportionately impacts the startup overhead. We propose and assess the potential of a new technique that parallelizes program translations on multi-core machines to reduce its evident run-time costs. We explain the challenges in achieving such parallelization and discuss and evaluate solutions.
Numerical Calculation of Relaxation Distributions

In linear viscoelasticity, the spectrum of relaxation times, H(τ), or retardation times, L(τ), represent the common connection among numerous measurable functions such as stress relaxation, creep recovery, dynamic storage and loss moduli, and even shear dependent viscosity. In general, these spectra are defined by convolution integrals such as, for example, the following: $$F(t) = \int_\infty ^\infty {H(\tau )\exp ( - t/\tau )d\ln } \tau $$ (1) $$F(\omega ) = \int_{{ - \infty }}^{\infty } {{{\omega }^{2}}{{\tau }^{2}}H(\tau ) {{{(1 + {{\omega }^{2}}{{\tau }^{2}})}}^{{ - 1}}}d\ln \tau }$$ (2) These and other representations are discussed by Ferry1. The kernel functions exp(-t/ τ) and (1 +ω2“τ 2)”1 are cutoffs with values ranging from 0 to 1 that diminish and eventually eliminate the contribution of elements for which the relaxation time τ is greater than the experimental time t, or 1/ω , or 1/∈ .
Can the Perceived Difficulty of a Task Enhance Trainee Performance

BACKGROUND Human understanding of how to efficiently train learners in procedural skills is imperfect. The concept of self-efficacy – confidence in one's ability to successfully complete a task – may be useful to learners. Theories of motivation and instructional design suggest there are specific targets for improving learner success. We aimed to study the effects of induced conceptions of ability on motor learning using both undergraduate and medical students. METHODS Forty undergraduate and medical students underwent a 15-minute training session teaching the basics of colonoscopy on a low-cost, moderate fidelity colonoscopy simulation model. Students were then tasked to intubate the cecum of a similarly constructed colonoscopy model with a real colonoscope. Before each task, participants were given a note which either read “90% of your peers completed the task in less than 5 minutes” (positive [+] comparison group) or “10% of your peers completed the task in less than 5 minutes” (negative [−] comparison group). Immediately after receiving the note, participants were then asked to complete a self-efficacy questionnaire, ranking their confidence on a scale from 0 to 10 for successfully completing the task. A NASA TLX was collected to understand the students’ mental effort with the task. Participants then underwent stratified randomization into 2 crossover groups (G1 = + note, then − note; G2 = − note, then + note) and again performed the colonoscopy task. Following the session completion, all students had received both notes and crossed over to complete both tasks. Time spent on both tasks and task completion (reaching the cecum) was the measured outcomes. RESULTS Self-efficacy (confidence) levels were significantly higher in the positive note condition for both comparison groups in (p CONCLUSIONS This prospective, cross-over study suggests that performance expectancies can be influenced by preinduced conceptions. Performance was enhanced in Task 1 when participants were given a relatively “low success rate prediction.” This may be due to an enhanced focus that led to increased performance—while participants who were given the prediction of a “higher success rate” were more confident but performed less well. The crossover groups for Task 2 performed in a similar manner despite different confidence levels. This study supports the idea that self-efficacy expectations are relevant for trainee education and performance.
Factors associated with late recurrence after parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism.

Abstract Background A recent study with unusually lengthy follow-up after surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism reported higher recurrence rates than previously appreciated. We sought to identify specific factors associated with late recurrence after seemingly curative parathyroidectomy. Methods Prospectively collected data were retrieved for patients who had surgical treatment of sporadic primary hyperparathyroidism with ≥ 3-year follow-up (3–17.6 years). Recurrence was defined by 6 months of eucalcemia with subsequent hypercalcemia and a high or unsuppressed parathyroid hormone. Recurrent patients were compared with cured patients (defined by consistent eucalcemia). Results Among 261 patients, 28 (10.7%) had recurrence and 233 (89.3%) were cured. The mean time to recurrence was 77 months (range 13–170). The mean final intraoperative parathyroid hormone (49.0 pg/mL vs 37.5 pg/mL, P Conclusion Long-term follow-up after apparent curative surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism identified a high late recurrence rate (10.7%), up to 17 years later. A 6-month calcium >9.7 mg/dL and eucalcemic parathyroid hormone elevation at 6 months may be associated with recurrence, and such findings may help guide management.
Just Popping In: Collections and Outreach Collaborations to Increase Student Engagement with Electronic Resources

Promoting electronic resources in a physical space takes ingenuity and cross-library partnership. This article discusses a collaborative approach to promote electronic resources by an outreach libr...
Colchicine treatment in children with periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and cervical adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome: A multicenter study in Spain.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of colchicine therapy in pediatric patients with PFAPA syndrome who present with an incomplete response to the standard treatment or with frequent episodes (an interval of less than 14 days between two disease flares). Methods A multicenter cohort study of children diagnosed with PFAPA syndrome and treated with colchicine was performed in three separate hospitals located in Spain. The patients clinical and laboratory data were reviewed by accessing their medical records. Response to colchicine was evaluated after 12 months of treatment for frequency, duration, and intensity of PFAPA episodes. Results A total of 13 children were included in our study, 43% of whom were boys. Median age of the colchicine therapy initiation was 6 years (interquartile range (IQR)=3-9.5). Following a 12-month period of colchicine therapy (median dosage of 0.02 mg/kg/day; IQR=0.02-0.03), a significant decrease in the median number of flares (median 8; IQR=7-14 vs 3; IQR=2-4; p=0.005) and the duration of disease episodes (median 4 days; IQR=3.25-5.125 vs 1 day; IQR=1-2; p=0.003) was observed. Furthermore, the highest degree of fever during disease flares was reduced from median 40oC (IQR=39.5-40) to 38.5oC (IQR=37.7-38.9) (p=0.002). Conclusion Colchicine therapy decreased the frequency and intensity of PFAPA. The use of colchicine could be an effective treatment in pediatric patients with PFAPA syndrome who present with frequent or severe relapses.
The effects of prolonged sitting, standing, and an alternating sit-stand pattern on trunk mechanical stiffness, trunk muscle activation and low back discomfort.

Sit-stand desks continue to be a popular intervention for office work. While previous studies have reported changes in subjective measures, there is limited understanding of how sit-stand work diff...
Shock compression of silver to 300 GPa: Wave profile measurements and melting transition

Recent in-situ x-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements on laser-shock compressed Ag foils demonstrated a face-centered-cubic to body-centered-cubic transformation at \ensuremath{\sim}150 GPa and melting between 172 and 197 GPa [Phys. Rev. Lett. 124, 235701 (2020)]. As a complement to the XRD work, we conducted plate impact experiments to obtain shock velocity and wave profile measurements on thicker Ag samples shock-compressed to peak stresses between 30 and 300 GPa. The shock velocity--particle velocity results were fitted very well by a linear relation over the entire stress range, providing an accurate determination of the Ag Hugoniot (locus of the stress-volume states achieved under shock compression). For peak stresses below 187 GPa and above 210 GPa---corresponding to the solid and liquid phases, respectively---the wave profiles show clean single waves. No wave profile features related to the fcc-bcc transformation at \ensuremath{\sim}150 GPa were observed, implying minimal volume change for the transformation. For stresses between 187 and 210 GPa, an initial jump was followed by a time-dependent increase in the particle velocity (20--80 ns risetime) to the peak state---corresponding to the solid-liquid mixed phase response. Unlike the solid and liquid response, the mixed-phase response cannot be readily analyzed analytically. Instead, numerical simulations incorporating an accurate multiphase equation of state for Ag---not currently available---are required to analyze the wave profiles measured at 187--210 GPa stresses. The present work shows the potential for using wave profile measurements to examine the melting transition under shock compression.
Modular Multilevel Converter Based Reconfigurable Ac Load Emulator

Numerous testing of power electronics converters with various load types/conditions shall always be conducted before finalizing the design parameters, wherefore load emulator, also known as active power electronics load or dc/ac electronic load, is superior to passive load and real load in terms of testing flexibility and cost especially in high voltage, high power applications. This paper proposes a concept that by paralleled operation of modular multilevel converters, a versatile testing platform for dc-ac/ac-dc voltage source converters, so called Reconfigurable Ac Load Emulator, can cover extremely wide range of operation voltage and frequency while effectively emulating different types/conditions of load. The emulator enables faster, more efficient and flexible testing of power electronics converters. Both simulation and experiments prove the feasibility.
Sleep Quality Among Latino Farmworkers in North Carolina: Examination of the Job Control-Demand-Support Model

Sleep problems are associated with physical and mental health disorders and place individuals at an increased risk of workplace injuries. The demand-control-support model posits that job demands and the capacity to control work processes influence workers’ level of distress, thereby affecting their physical and mental health; supervisor support can buffer the negative effect of high demands and low control. Data on the sleep quality and the organization of work of Latino men were collected in agricultural areas in North Carolina in 2012. 147 Mexican-born farmworkers ages 30 and older, most of whom had H-2A visas, provided information about sleep quality and organization of work. Most (83 %) farmworkers reported good sleep quality. The association between working more than 40 h per week and reporting poor sleep quality approached statistical significance. Additional research is needed to understand whether job demands, job control, and social support affect farmworkers’ sleep quality.
Food Safety or Food Fight: Administrative Impact on Trade Policies Relating to Genetically Modified Organisms

By comparing US, Canadian, and EC regulatory regimes, this paper examines the impact of each government’s regulatory administrative structures on GMO trade policies. Although the Office of the United States Trade Representative, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, and Europe’s Directorate-General For Trade have primary responsibility for developing and implementing trade policies, the scope of this paper is limited to exploring the respective regulatory regimes. This introductory section of the paper discusses the background and history of GMOs along with the health and safety concerns raised by the introduction of GMOs into the environment. The following three sections present an overview of the regulatory regimes in the US, Canada, and the EC respectively. Section V then discusses the relevant WTO disputes involving the US, Canada, and the EC. A comparative analysis of the regulatory regimes in the context of the trade disputes is presented in Section VI. Section VII concludes the paper with a discussion of risk and recommendation that substantial equivalence doctrine expand to include novel processes.
PerspectiveSpace: Opinion Modeling with Dimensionality Reduction

Words mean different things to different people, and capturing these differences is often a subtle art. These differences are often "a matter of perspective". Perspective can be taken to be the set of beliefs held by a person as a result of their background, culture, tastes, and experience. But how can we represent perspective computationally? In this paper, we present PerspectiveSpace, a new technique for modeling spaces of users and their beliefs. PerspectiveSpace represents these spaces as a matrix of users, and data on how people agree or disagree on assertions that they themselves have expressed. It uses Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to reduce the dimensionality of that matrix, discovering the most important axes that best characterize the space. It can then express user perspectives and opinions in terms of these axes. For recommender systems, because it discovers patterns in the beliefs about items, rather than similarity of the items or users themselves, it can perform more nuanced categorization and recommendation. It integrates with our more general common sense reasoning technique, AnalogySpace, which can reason over the content of expressed opinions. An application of PerspectiveSpace to movie recommendation, 2-wit, is presented. A leave-one-out test shows that PerspectiveSpace captures the consistency of users' opinions very well. The technique also has applications ranging from discovering subcultures in a larger society, to building community-driven web sites.
Excitability of auditory neurons in the dorsal and ventral cochlear nuclei of DBA/2 and C57BL/6 mice.

Abstract Extracellular response properties were studied in neurons of the dorsal and ventral divisions of the cochlear nucleus (DCN and VCN, respectively) of DBA 2 (DBA) and C57BL 6 (C57) mice. Mice of the former inbred strain show susceptibility to audiogenic seizures and have severe high frequency hearing loss when young; mice of the latter strain do not. Whereas afterdischarges had been readily observed in the inferior colliculus of DBA mice in a previous study, they were never observed in the cochlear nucleus. The incidence of nonmonotonic intensity functions, the slopes of intensity functions, and the incidence of inhibition in response areas indicated that inhibition was diminished in the DCN of DBA mice. However, in the VCN, these response properties did not differ between the two strains. There appeared to be an “amplification” of excitability (i.e., attenuation of inhibition) from VCN to DCN to inferior colliculus in DBA mice.
Genetic algorithm design of antenna arrays

Genetic algorithms are capable of optimizing the performance of antenna arrays. They model biological evolution to find the parameters that optimize the output of a function. In this paper, the genetic algorithms find the quantized phase weights that optimize the sidelobe levels of an array over its scanning region.
Design of a parallel-group balanced controlled trial to test the effects of assist-as-needed robotic therapy

In this methods paper, we report on the design of a clinical study testing the efficacy of a newly developed control scheme for robot-aided rehabilitation. To measure the value added by a new control scheme, we pursued a parallel-group controlled clinical study design. This approach enables comparing the effects of the novel scheme, based on the Assist-As-Needed (AAN) paradigm, with those of a less sophisticated, fixed gain, Subject-Triggered (ST) controller. We describe the steps followed in the design of this clinical study, including details on the implementation of the two control modes, and a power analysis to determine the required number of subjects to test a clinically significant difference hypothesis. Finally, we present a method for sequential group assignment with co-variates minimization, capable of guaranteeing a desired level of balance of prognostic factors in the two study groups, a crucial requisite for small-scale clinical studies in rehabilitation. To the best of our knowledge, the study presented is the first one testing, in a controlled fashion, the differential effects of a specific control mode in upper extremity rehabilitation after incomplete spinal cord injury.
Some Characteristics of Tryptophan Uptake in Claviceps species

Tryptophan serves as a precursor for the biosynthesis of alkaloids in the ergot fungus, Claviceps purpurea (Fries) Tulasne, and also is believed to act as an inducer of the enzymes necessary for alkaloid production. The characteristics of the transport system responsible for the accumulation of tryptophan in ergot mycelium were investigated, with the goal of clarifying the complex relationships among tryptophan uptake, size of the free intracellular pool of tryptophan, and alkaloid production. The characteristics of tryptophan uptake were studied by pulse feeding radioactively labeled tryptophan to cultures of Claviceps species, strain SD-58, which represented a variety of ages and nutritional states. Tryptophan accumulation in strain SD-58 is mediated by an energy-requiring system which exhibits specificity for neutral aromatic and aliphatic l-amino acids, is pH and temperature dependent, and shows saturation at high substrate concentrations. Tryptophan transport is a function of the intracellular concentration of free tryptophan, the nitrogen deficiency of the mycelium, the rate of growth, and alkaloid production, which were measured in Claviceps strain SD-58 growth in several culture media, some of which promoted alkaloid production and some of which did not. The results indicate that the initial velocity of tryptophan transport is not directly related to alkaloid production.
Hydrogen peroxide formation by lactobacilli and its effect on Staphylococcus aureus.

Abstract Culture filtrates of Lactobacillus lactis and Lactobacillus bulgaricus were observed to contain material inhibitory against Staphylococcus aureus . The concentration of inhibitor increased on storage of the lactobacilli at 5C, and the maximum was attained after five days. A carbohydrate source was necessary for the formation of this inhibitory activity by resting cell suspensions. The inhibitory factor was identified as hydrogen peroxide. Storage of lactobacilli in dextrose at neutral pH and at 5C resulted in maximum accumulation of hydrogen peroxide.
Neovascularization following traumatic brain injury: possible evidence for both angiogenesis and vasculogenesis.

Abstract Objective: Our goal was to characterize the angiogenic response following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods: Western analysis for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, double immunofluorescence labeling of endothelium and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), bromodioxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation and measurement of capillary density, were all used to determine the temporal angiogenic response following TBI. Results: The angiogenic factors, VEGF and VEGFR2, increase following trauma. Capillary density increases and BrdU incorporation confirm the presence of newly formed vessels up to 48 hours post-injury. Discussion: Our results indicated that following TBI, there is a substantial increase in angiogenesis and based on morphologic characterization of BrdU-positive nuclei within the endothelium, we provide evidence for vasculogenesis following injury.
Agents of Manifest Destiny: The Lives and Times of the Filibusters

During the 1850s the doctrine of Manifest Destiny sanctioned a popular movement in which adventurers sought to enlarge the nation's boundaries by military incursions into Latin American countries. Brown portrays the leaders of the expeditions and describes the filibuster movement as a part of larger affairs--the slavery issue, the Monroe Doctrine, the rivalry for commercial supremacy in the Caribbean, and the assertion by the United States of its claim to national greatness.Originally published in 1980.A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.
Design of Telemetering Networks for Flood-Control Reservoir Operation

Automatic equipment is described to fulfill a requirement for optimized operation of reservoirs and other flood-control structures by allowing rapid and unattended reporting of river levels and precipitation amounts from remote points. The emphasis is on design of telemetering networks and system engineering for VHF-radio transmission of the data. A recent development in precipitation telemetering is also described.
MO‐D‐M100F‐01: Emerging Techniques Using Digital Tomosynthesis

In‐room radiolographic imagingsystems is being rapidly implemented in routine clinical operations for target localization. A typical system consists of a kV x‐ray source and an amorphous‐silicon flat panel detector mounted orthogonally to the MV‐beam axis. The available clinical imaging capabilities from this configuration are 2‐D radiographic or fluoroscopic imaging and 3‐D CBCT. These techniques may have potential limitations either on not sufficient anatomical information for positioning verification (such as 2‐D technology) or long imaging time (several breathing cycles), mechanical constraints, and excessive dose to the imaging volume (such as CBCT technology). Therefore, limited‐angle digital tomosynthesis (DTS) is being investigated as an alternative 3‐D imaging technique. Much of the investigations have been focused on the clinical feasibility and efficacy of using DTS for on‐board target localization and comparison between DTS technology with 2‐D radiographic and CBCT technologies. This talk will summarize emerging clinical research to develop the DTS technology for on‐line patient positioning and target localization for image guided radiation therapy, specifically for anatomical sites of head and neck, abdomen, breast and prostate. Educational Objectives: 1. Brief review of DTS imaging technique in the treatment room. 2. Clinical feasibility and efficacy of using DTS for in‐room target localization.
On correlation, with applications to the radar and raingage measurement of rainfall

Abstract A mathematical analysis shows how the magnitude of the correlation coefficient increases with the range over which linearly related variables are measured. This dependence should be taken into account when comparing correlation coefficients. Our treatment is applied here to comparisons of rainfall estimated by radar and raingage. The magnitude of the coefficient of correlation between measures of the same quantity by different processes is defined by an equation that accounts for standard errors of estimates, the range of values, and the density distribution function. We present one equation for uniform densities of variables and another for densities inversely proportional to magnitude. The latter density distribution corresponds to raw rainfall data and the former to logarithms of the same data.
DALÍ'S HOMAGE TO ROTHKO: A DEFENSE AGAINST FUSION WITH THE VICTIM

This paper explores the thematic content of a painting by Salvador Dali in homage to artist Mark Rothko, completed after the latter's suicide. The manifest title of the work suggests respect for Rothko, but the latent intent of the painting, the author suggests, is more of a memoriam to Rothko in a complex identification with him. Among other psychological issues, the author elaborates on two factors that may have played a part in Dali's artistic reaction to Rothko's suicide: the death of the artist's infant brother nine months before his own birth, and his lifelong struggle against fusion with the victim (Orgel 1974a, 1974b).
Henoch-Schonlein purpura associated with cancer of prostate

Abstract The first case of Henoch-Schonlein purpura associated with cancer of the prostate is presented. This is a syndrome rare in adults and believed to be a form of an immune complex disease. It has been associated with several tumors but has never been reported in conjunction with prostatic cancer. The pathophysiology of the skin and renal lesions are discussed as well as the relationship to the immune system. The immunocompetence of patients with cancer of the prostate is considered. We postulate a theory why this syndrome developed in this patient.
The IUE Spectra of Three Optically Narrow-Line O VI Planetary Nebulae: NGC 1501, IC 1747, and IC 1297

The IUE spectra of NGC 1501, IC 1747, and IC 1297 have been analyzed with the Final Archive NEWSIPS processing and contain a large amount of new information. The UV spectra of the first two objects have received very little attention up to now, although they belong to the astrophysically rare but important group of planetary nebulae that exhibit O VI, O VII, and O VIII emission lines. Terminal wind velocities in the range -2500 < V∞ < -3880 km s-1 were derived for the three objects from P Cygni profiles of the O V λ1371 and C IV λ1549 lines and are thought to be the first detection of stellar winds for these planetaries. Electron densities for IC 1297 have been redetermined, and more than 60 emission lines were identified.
Preferential hepatic galactose uptake in the newborn

Previous studies demonstrated impaired carbohydrate tolerance with a delayed and excessive rise in plasma glucose and insulin following oral glucose in healthy full term newborns less than 24 hours of age. To evaluate the role of the liver in determining carbohydrate tolerance, galactose tolerance tests were carried out in 6 full term infants of comparable age. following a 3 hour fast, galactose (2 gr/kg) was given by gavage. Blood samples were obtained from umbilical vein and from heel sites before and half-hourly to 3 hours following galactose feeding. Results indicate a rapid rise in total sugar and glucose with an early peak following the galactose feeding with little change in insulin concentration in either umbilical or capillary blood. Paired data analysis revealed a significant difference between total sugar and glucose in umbilical venous blood which was absent in capillary blood. Similarly there was a significant difference between umbilical venous and capillary blood total sugar but no difference in glucose. The data indicate rapid hepatic uptake of galactose as opposed to glucose without change in circulating insulin. The concomitant rise in glucose suggests almost immediate conversion of galactose to glucose in the newborn, which is not seen in older children.
Parent-Professional Partnership in Behavioral Support: A Qualitative Analysis of One Family's Experience:

Behavioral support with families is a multifaceted endeavor that should be studied from the various perspectives that affect its feasibility, efficacy, and potential to produce outcomes that are du...
Memory for object locations in boys with and without ADHD.

Objective: To determine whether 7- to 12-year-old boys with ADHD, relative to non-ADHD age-mates, exhibit greater difficulty learning and remembering object locations. The second purpose was to examine the functional utility of mnemonic strategies, specifically speech-to-self, used by boys with and without ADHD. Method: Boys with and without ADHD were videotaped while completing a well-established, laboratory-based object location learning and memory task. Results: Boys with ADHD evinced a deficit while learning the location of objects and employed less sophisticated forms of private speech during the memory task. Conclusion: These findings reveal details about the utility of private speech during spatial working memory performance and further a theoretical understanding of ADHD.
Using undergraduates as teaching assistants at a state university

This paper describes a program that uses undergraduates as teaching assistants to staff large computer science classes, particularly at the introductory level. Creating such a program at a state school presented special challenges, but the program has become a mainstay for the department's undergraduate program. The program has been so successful that we have expanded it to cover some sophomore and junior level courses, including a discrete mathematics course. Among the benefits of the program are reduced overall cost, improved quality of instruction, the formation of an undergraduate community and the practical experience that the undergraduate teaching assistants themselves gain.
Age-related differences in memory-encoding fMRI responses after accounting for decline in vascular reactivity

BOLD fMRI has provided a wealth of information about the aging brain. A common finding is that posterior regions of the brain manifest an age-related decrease in activation while the anterior regions show an age-related increase. Several neurocognitive models have been proposed to interpret these findings. However, one issue that has not been sufficiently considered to date is that the BOLD signal is based on vascular responses secondary to neural activity. Thus the above findings could be in part due to a vascular change, especially in view of the expected decline of vascular health with age. In the present study, we aim to examine age-related differences in memory-encoding fMRI response in the context of vascular aging. One hundred and thirty healthy subjects ranging from 20 to 89 years old underwent a scene-viewing fMRI task and, in the same session, cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) was measured in each subject using a CO2-inhalation task. Without accounting for the influence of vascular changes, the task-activated fMRI signal showed the typical age-related decrease in visual cortex and medial temporal lobe (MTL), but manifested an increase in the right inferior frontal gyrus (IFG). In the same individuals, an age-related CVR reduction was observed in all of these regions. We then used a previously proposed normalization approach to calculate a CVR-corrected fMRI signal, which was defined as the uncorrected signal divided by CVR. Based on the CVR-corrected fMRI signal, an age-related increase is now seen in both the left and right sides of IFG; and no brain regions showed a signal decrease with age. We additionally used a model-based approach to examine the fMRI data in the context of CVR, which again suggested an age-related change in the two frontal regions, but not in the visual and MTL regions.