cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mapping dispossession: Eviction, foreclosure and the multiple geographies of housing instability in Lexington, Kentucky

Abstract Housing is increasingly recognized as playing a crucial role in shaping any number of other social processes and domains. But fundamental inequalities in housing mean that the benefits of quality housing accrue unequally to different groups of people. In order to explore how housing works not only to reflect, but also produce, socio-spatial inequality, this paper explores the geographies and temporalities of housing dispossession in Lexington, Kentucky by drawing on an extensive dataset of all evictions and foreclosures in the city from 2005 to 2016. The paper demonstrates that while mortgage foreclosure has tended to dominate discussions of housing dispossession since the financial crisis of 2007–2008, residential evictions are both far more widespread and much more consistent over time. The paper also concludes that while foreclosure rates are much more strongly correlated with variables of racial and class segregation, evictions are more spatially concentrated across multiple scales. The paper demonstrates that many of those places experiencing the most acute forms of housing dispossession are not gentrifying inner-city neighborhoods, but rather persistently or increasingly impoverished inner-ring suburbs. Ultimately, this paper argues that these spatialities are the result not of individual failings, but rather of powerful actors in the local housing market acting in conjunction with broader forces of racialized capitalist urbanization.
Salivary uric acid: Associations with resting and reactive blood pressure response to social evaluative stress in healthy African Americans.

Abstract High levels of uric acid are associated with greater risk of stress-related cardiovascular illnesses that occur disproportionately among African Americans. Whether hyperuricemia affects biological response to acute stress remains largely unknown, suggesting a need to clarify this potential connection. The current study examined how salivary uric acid (sUA) is associated with resting and reactive blood pressure – two robust predictors of hypertension and related cardiovascular disease and disparity. Healthy African Americans (N = 107; 32% male; M age = 31.74 years), completed the Trier Social Stress Test to induce social-evaluative stress. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings were recorded before, during, and after the task to assess resting and reactive change in blood pressure. Participants also provided a saliva sample at baseline that was assayed for sUA. At rest, and controlling for age, sUA was modestly associated with higher systolic (r = .201, p = .044), but not diastolic (r = .100, p = .319) blood pressure. In response to the stressor task, and once again controlling for age, sUA was also associated with higher total activation of both systolic (r = .219, p = .025) and diastolic blood pressure (r = .198, p
Erythropoietin Prevents Anemia and Transfusions in Extremely Premature Lambs Supported by an EXTrauterine Environment for Neonatal Development (EXTEND).

BACKGROUND We recently developed an EXTrauterine Environment for Neonatal Development (EXTEND) that provides physiologic support for premature lambs. Here, we assess the efficacy of exogenous erythropoietin (EPO) to prevent anemia and transfusions on EXTEND. MATERIALS AND METHODS Lambs were cannulated at 0.7 gestation and supported on EXTEND for up to 4 weeks. The lambs were divided into three groups: (1) No EPO, (2) Low EPO (300 U kg-1 per day), and (3) High EPO (800 U kg-1 per day). Daily hematocrit and weekly complete blood count were assessed. RESULTS The mean percentage change in hematocrit from baseline was significantly different between the groups (No EPO -23.6 ± 7.8% vs. Low EPO -16.6 ± 6.4% vs. High EPO +2.6 ± 6.6%; p = 0.02). This occurred despite a greater median number of blood transfusions in the No EPO group (5 vs. 1 vs. 0; p = 0.02). EPO administration was associated with a higher mean corpuscular volume (MCV; p < 0.01) and reticulocyte count (p = 0.02). The High EPO group was comparable to in utero control fetuses with respect to hematocrit (p = 0.49), MCV (p = 0.24), and reticulocyte count (p = 0.68). CONCLUSIONS EPO (800 U kg-1 per day) prevents anemia, eliminates transfusions, and restores normal red blood cell indices in premature lambs supported by EXTEND.
Constructing Language Processors for Little Languages

From the Publisher: This unique book is an extremely practical, step-by-step guide to developing language processors. At the same time, it tells you everything you need to know to build, from scratch, custom-made little languages that will considerably streamline your programming chores. Long on nuts-and-bolts, hands-on guidance with just enough theory, the book is packed with specific real-world examples of all topics covered, and is organized around the design, development, debugging, and implementation of an interpreter and compiler to process a little language for storing, retrieving, and manipulating images. An excellent guide for seasoned programmers who need to develop special purpose languages and the processors needed to run them, Constructing Language Processors for Little Languages is also a superior introduction to the basics of building compilers and interpreters for students and beginners.
Quantum unique ergodicity for SL2 (Z) H

We eliminate the possibility of "escape of mass" for Hecke-Maass forms of large eigenvalue for the modular group. Combined with the work of Lindenstrauss, this establishes the Quantum Unique Ergodicity conjecture of Rudnick and Sarnak for Hecke-Maass forms on the modular surface SL 2 (ℤ)\ℍ).
Toward Integration of the Niche Diversity Hypothesis With Other Explanations for Personality Covariation: Reply to Međedović's (2019) Commentary on Lukaszewski et al. (2017):

The hypothesis of a human-universal personality structure is undermined by cross-cultural studies in small-scale societies. To explain cross-population differences in patterns of behavioral covaria...
Mitral Stenosis Assessment Using Left Atrial Pressure Via Radial Approach: An Alternative to Transseptal Puncture

A 67-year-old woman with systemic hypertension and morbid obesity (50.6 kg/m2) was referred for invasive hemodynamic assessment of her mitral valve in the setting of exertional dyspnea. Transthoracic echocardiography previously showed normal left ventricular (LV) size and systolic function, severe
In situ electron-beam processing and cathodoluminescence microscopy for quantum nanophotonics

Non-linear manipulation of light at the nanoscale is increasingly important for quantum optics and photonics. Plasmonic media provide one important workbench for the manipulation of these nonlinearities.1 The design of plasmonic structures typically involves time-consuming, iterative, computer simulations, nanofabrication and characterization with large suites of independent tools. Hence, in-situ fabrication and characterization along with real time design optimization is an appealing option for the development of hybrid quantum nanophotonic devices. Here, we will describe emerging capabilities for in situ electron beam induced deposition (EBID) and cathodoluminescence (CL) microscopy in an environmental SEM. We outline our work writing and characterizing nanoplasmonic structures that exhibit well-defined field localization and multiple tunable resonances over a broad spectrum as part of the development of new high-efficiency nanophotonic nonlinear media. Developing deter- ministic high-quality single photon emitters is an equally important direction for photonic quantum information processing. Due to the sub-nanometer footprint of such emitters, optical methods are often insufficient for local characterization. We describe our efforts to create, manipulate and characterize color centers in 2D and bulk materials such as hBN. We discuss e-beam induced effects for localized defect creation and EBID based control of color centers to allow emission tuning. Cathodoluminescence lifetime and autocorrelation measurements are utilized for sub-diffraction-limited in-situ assessment of the single photon emission properties.
A General Multipatch Model of Ebola Dynamics

A model for the transmission dynamics of Ebola virus in a multipatch network setting is studied. The model considers the contribution to the dynamics by people who are susceptible, infectious, isolated, deceased but still infectious and not yet buried, as well as the dynamics of the pathogen at interacting nodes or patches. Humans can move between patches carrying the disease to any patch in a region of n communities (patches). Both direct and indirect transmission are accounted for in this model. Matrix and graph-theoretic methods and some combinatorial identities are used to construct appropriate Lyapunov functions to establish global stability results for both the disease-free and the endemic equilibrium of the model. While the model is focused on Ebola, it can be adapted to the study of other disease epidemics, including COVID-19, currently affecting all countries in the world. © 2021 Nonautonomous Dynamical Systems. All right reserved.
Epidemiology of Acute Extensor Mechanism Injuries in Collegiate-Level Athletes in the United States.

Background:Extensor mechanism injuries involving the quadriceps tendon, patella, or patellar tendon can be a devastating setback for athletes. Despite the potential severity and relative frequency ...
SMOKE-INDUCED GERMINATION IN THE ENDANGERED ERIODICTYON CAPITATUM (NAMACEAE)

Understanding the germination cues of rare plants is critical to their conservation, restoration, and management. We used a greenhouse study to investigate the germination of Eriodictyon capitatum Eastw. (Lompoc yerba santa) seeds to understand the species' life history and to inform restoration efforts. Eriodictyon capitatum is a woody shrub that is listed as rare by the state of California and endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Limited to just seven extant occurrences, E. capitatum does not currently readily produce seeds at most sites, but it does spread clonally, sometimes leading to low genetic diversity in aboveground vegetation. We collected seeds from one wild occurrence and measured germination rates in response to each of five physical treatments: control, dry heat, hot soak, liquid smoke, and scarification. Each physical treatment was replicated under both light and dark conditions. The highest percent germination was recorded with the liquid smoke treatment and the fastest germination occurred when seeds were sown in the dark and treated with liquid smoke. The significant impact of liquid smoke on seed germination suggests that E. capitatum is adapted to fire and that periodic fires could potentially promote aboveground genetic diversity by eliciting a flush of germination from the soil seed bank. These results can facilitate future propagation efforts, inform management, and also highlight the important role of fire in the life history of this endangered plant.
A simulation model with multi-attribute utility functions for energy consumption scheduling in a smart grid

When consumers’ use of electricity is mainly driven by convenience, coincident demand occurs, resulting in electric load peaks. Consequently, the undesirable large gaps between peak and off-peak loads will adversely affect the system’s efficiency due to unused capacity during off-peak hours and extra ancillary generators required during peak hours. Demand response (DR) has long been proposed to reduce peak load by providing incentives to encourage consumers to shift their peak loads to off-peak periods. In most DR literature, incentive schemes are purely financial in assuming that cost is the only parameter to influence consumers’ load-shifting behavior. In this paper, we assume that in addition to cost, convenience of energy usage is also an important factor when consumers respond to DR programs. Hence, we use multi-attribute utility functions consisting of both cost and convenience factors to model consumer behavior on energy consumption for home appliances. The “convenience” herein is defined as being able to use an appliance during one’s preferred time window. A simulation model is developed to study a residential population consisting of heterogeneous households with varying preference of convenience over cost. We study the effects of time-of-use pricing structure on users’ utility-based load shifting behaviors and subsequently on system-wide performances such as peak to average ratio (PAR) and load variance (LV). We also describe a method of design of experiment (DOE) for determining an optimal time-of-use rate structure that minimizes both PAR and LV for the system.
Structure and magnetic properties of SmCo7−xTix with TbCu7-type structure

The SmCo7−xTix, x=0–0.56 bulk samples are prepared by arc melting. X-ray diffraction indicates that samples with 0.2<x<0.4 form a single disordered TbCu7-type structure phase and other minor phases appear for other values of x, which indicates that Ti helps stabilize the 1-7 phase. The lattice parameters ratio (c/a) increases with increasing Ti concentration. Room temperature saturation magnetization and Curie temperature decrease with increasing x. X-ray diffraction and magnetization measurements on aligned samples show that all samples studied have uniaxial anisotropy. The anisotropy field is found to increase with increasing x reaching a maximum of 175 kOe at x=0.28 and then decreases for higher values of x. This anisotropy field is 20% higher than that of the same compound with Th2Zn17-type structure.
An Experimental Study on the Relevance and Scope of Culture as a Focal Point

This paper uses an experimental approach to study whether nationality serves as a focal point. We let subjects from Japan, Korea, and China play stag-hunt coordination games in which we vary information about their partner. The results show that subjects are more likely to try to coordinate on the payoff-dominant equilibrium if the only piece of information they have about their partner is that they have the same nationality. However, if subjects receive additional information about their partner, subjects are not more likely to try to coordinate on the payoff dominant equilibrium. We also do not find that subjects are less likely to try to coordinate on the payoff-dominant equilibrium when their partner has a different nationality as compared to when the partner’s nationality is unknown. In addition, we observe that giving subjects information about their partner in general increases the risk of miscoordination. Thus, our findings suggest that nationality can serve as a coordination device but also that the scope of this device is limited.
Protection of sympathetic α-receptors in vivo

An intravenous dose of 100 mcg./Kg. of phenoxybenzamine in rats completely blocked the lethal effect of 1 mg./Kg. of epinephrine injected intravenously 3 hr. later. Alpha-sympathetic receptors were protected against the effect of phenoxybenzamine by the simultaneous injection of competitive α -adrenolytics. If the α -receptor protection was maximal, a 100 per cent mortality followed the injection of the 1 mg./Kg. dose of epinephrine. Graded degrees of receptor protection were obtained by the administration of graded doses of α -adrenolytics. A rank correlation coefficient of 0.902 was obtained between the α -receptor protective dose 50 and the adrenolytic dose 50 of 17 compounds tested including dextro -isoproterenol and dextro -hyoscyamine.
Age, Sex, Method, and Interval as Variables in Time Estimation

(1943). Age, Sex, Method, and Interval as Variables in Time Estimation. The Pedagogical Seminary and Journal of Genetic Psychology: Vol. 63, No. 1, pp. 123-130.
Microkinetic modeling of cis-cyclooctene oxidation on heterogeneous Mn–tmtacn complexes

Abstract Experiments and microkinetic modeling were used to investigate the reaction mechanism of cis-cyclooctene oxidation with H2O2 on heterogeneous manganese 1,4,7-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane (Mn–tmtacn) catalysts. A mechanism based on literature reports and model discrimination was identified that captured experimental data well, including data at reaction conditions that were not used for parameter estimation. H2O2 activation on the heterogeneous catalytic complex was identified as the rate-determining step (RDS), and a simple analytical rate expression was derived using the RDS and the pseudo-steady-state approximation for all intermediates. Predicted reaction orders for cis-cyclooctene, water, H2O2, catalyst, and diol and epoxide products are also consistent with experimental observations and can be rationalized according to the derived rate expression. In addition, the ratio of productive to unproductive H2O2 use is analyzed, and catalyst deactivation is found to be an important step in the reaction mechanism that is highly sensitive to temperature.
A Study of State Spaces and Conditional Probability Distributions of a Class of Distributed Parameter Stochastic Systems

ABSTRACT Conditional probability distributions and state spaces of a special class of distributed parameter systems subject to a special class of distributive random inputs are denned. Fokker—Planck equation technique is employed to obtain explicit solutions of conditional probability density functions.
Relationship Between Labile Dissolved Organic Carbon (LDOC), Bacterioplankton Cell Phosphorus Quota, and Bacterial Phosphate Uptake Rate in Lakes

Abstract We examined the effects of labile dissolved organic carbon (LDOC) on bacterial growth rate, biovolume, cell phosphorus quota (i.e., P content per cell) and velocity of phosphate uptake in laboratory cultures and in natural bacterioplankton assemblages. Pseudomonas fluorescens (ATCC 13525) was cultured in M9 minimal medium adjusted to have low phosphate concentrations (25–400 nM); glutamate was the sole C-source (50–200 μM). Growth was slowest, cell biovolume was lowest, and cell P-quota was highest in cultures with the least glutamate. Natural bacterial assemblages were examined in three small inland lakes and along a trophic gradient in Lake Erie, covering a wide range of trophic states from hypereutrophic Sandusky Bay to meso-oligotrophic Crystal Lake. Biologically available P ranged from 17 to 117 nM; labile dissolved organic carbon (LDOC) ranged from 15 to 170 μM. As LDOC increased, bacterioplankton growth rate and biovolume increased, but cell P-quota and phosphate uptake velocity decreased. Phosphate uptake exhibited Michaelis-Menten kinetics at all stations; K t significantly increased with increasing LDOC. Amendments of 100 μM glycolate, glutamate, or glucose to natural bacterial assemblages significantly decreased the V max of phosphate uptake. We propose that LDOC controls the metabolic status of bacterioplankton: above about 50 μM LDOC cells are in a Growth State with modest P-quotas and relatively low phosphate uptake rates; below 50 μM LDOC cells are in a Storage State with very high P-quotas and rapid phosphate uptake rates.
A conserved enhancer element that drives FGF4 gene expression in the embryonic myotomes is synergistically activated by GATA and bHLH proteins

Abstract FGF4 is the earliest member of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family expressed during embryogenesis where it plays essential roles in post-implantation development and limb growth and patterning. The expression of the Fgf4 gene in specific developmental stages, including the ICM of the blastocyst, the myotomes, and the limb bud AER, is regulated by distinct enhancer elements (Hom) in the 3′ UTR. We previously identified the Hom3a region as the major DNA element responsible for Fgf4 expression in the myotomes and AER, and showed that a conserved E-box is a target for the myogenic bHLH transcription factors MYF5 and MYOD. To further define the cis- and trans-acting elements that determine Hom3a activity, we conducted a mutational analysis of the ability of the Hom3a region to drive lacZ expression in the myotomes of transgenic mice. We identified a minimal enhancer of 226nt that contains four elements, including the E-box, necessary to drive gene expression in the myotomes. One of these elements is a binding site for the GATA family of transcription factors, and we show here that GATA 1–4 and 6 can synergize with MYF5 or MYOD to activate transcription of a reporter plasmid driven by a portion of the Hom3a enhancer including the GATA site and the E-box. In line with this finding, we could show a direct interaction between MYF5/MYOD and GATA-3 or GATA-4, mediated by the N-terminal and bHLH domains of MYF5/MYOD and the C-terminal zing finger domain of GATA-3/4. To further study the role of the Hom3a enhancer in directing Fgf4 expression and the function of FGF4 in limb and muscle development, we generated mutant mice in which the Fgf4 Hom3a region had been deleted (Δ3a). In situ hybridization analysis of sections from Δ3a/ Δ3a embryos at E11.5 showed a drastically reduced expression of Fgf4 mRNA in the myotomes and AER. However, these mice developed normally and show no limb or muscle defects, and the same was true of heterozygous mice in which one Fgf4 allele carried the Hom3a deletion and the other was a null allele (Δ3a/Fgf4−). Together, these results show that Hom3a is the major DNA enhancer element directing Fgf4 expression in myotomes and limb bud AER, and that its activity in the myotomes results at least in part from the synergistic action of GATA and bHLH myogenic factors that bind to evolutionary conserved sequences in the Hom3a enhancer. However, expression of Fgf4 in the myotomes or AER of murine embryos does not appear to be essential for muscle or limb development.
Lead Inclusion Bodies in Osteoclasts

Inclusion bodies occur frequently in the nuclei and rarely in the cytoplasm of osteoclasts in pigs with experimental lead poisoning. The light and electron microscope pictures of undemineralized sections are similar to those described for liver cord cells and renal tubular cells.
Pan-African ages from a Tibesti Massif batholith, southern Libya

The northwestern portion of the Tibesti Massif in south-central Libya consists of a complex granitic batholith (the Ben Ghnema batholith) surrounded by medium- to low-grade metamorphic wall rocks. Rb-Sr whole-rock analyses of a suite of calc-alkaline rocks from the batholith give an age of about 560 m.y. and an initial87Sr/86Sr ratio of about 0.706. This age is within the accepted range of the Pan-African orogeny which caused extensive plutonism throughout much of northwestern Africa. The relatively low initial ratio suggests that the magma was derived in the lower crust-upper mantle region and perhaps experienced some degree of mixing with older sialic material.
Psychological Health and Coping Strategies of Adolescents with Chronic Stuttering

Abstract Objective: To assess the psychological health and coping strategies of 35 male adolescents with chronic stuttering and 35 male adolescents who do not stutter using standardized instruments. The study will also identify any relationships between psychological health and coping strategies and make recommendations to improve therapy outcomes for adolescents with chronic stuttering. Methods: Adolescents with chronic stuttering were diagnosed through case history, stuttering history, qualitative and quantitative overt speech behaviors and attitudinal measures. Participants who do not stutter were matched on age, race/ethnicity, grade level and SES. Standardized scales measuring coping strategies (The Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations-Adolescent, CISS-A) and psychological health (The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, SDQ) were completed. Results: Adolescents with chronic stuttering reported a higher number of peer relationship difficulties and a lower number of pro-social behaviors than adolescents who do not stutter. Adolescents with chronic stuttering reported significantly greater use of emotion-oriented coping strategies in dealing with general stressors compared with adolescents who do not stutter. Significant relationships were found between emotion-oriented coping strategies, peer relationship difficulties and pro-social behaviors for adolescents with both groups of participants. Conclusions: Adolescents with chronic stuttering may be vulnerable to peer relationships difficulties and poor pro-social behaviors. The results may reflect adolescents with chronic stuttering responses’ to reported negative biases and stereotypes by multiple conversation partners and the general public view of their social communication disability. Adolescents with chronic stuttering were more likely to use emotional-based coping strategies in dealing with general stressors in their lives. The data provide additional evidence for the need to address emotional and social assessment and treatment concerns for some adolescents who stutter.
Chemical Modification of Vegetable Oils for Lubricant Basestocks

Use of vegetable oil based lubricants will reduce petroleum imports and have a favorable environmental impact. The vegetable oils are derived from a renewable sources, biodegradable, non-toxic, possess high flash points and have low volatility. Inadequate oxidative stability and poor low-temperature properties of vegetable oils limit their utilization as lubricants. In this study, we report the development of chemical modification methods to improve these functional properties. The resultant vegetable oil derivatives having diester substitution at the sites of unsaturation shows comparable properties to mineral base fluids.© 2003 ASME
RNA Science and its Applications—a look toward the future: Albany, NY USA, November 3–4, 2011

On November 3–4, 2010, the Symposium RNA Science and its Applications: A look toward the Future was held at the University at Albany-SUNY in the capital of New York State. Unique to this Symposium’s format were panel discussions following each of the four platform sessions: RNA Technological Innovation: Analysis, Delivery, Nanotechnologies, IT; Infectious and other diseases: The future of small molecule intervention; RNA Discovery and Innovation: Cell and Molecular Biology; and Cancer and Neurological Disease: The future of small RNAs as therapeutics and tools of investigation. The meeting was organized by Thomas Begley, Marlene Belfort, Daniele Fabris, Melinda Larsen, Pan T.X. Li, Albert Millis, Li Niu, David Shub, and Carla Theimer of The RNA Institute at University at Albany-SUNY, Paul F. Agris, Director, and Jennifer S. Montimurro, Program Manager.
Developmental Changes in Erythrocyte Sodium-Potassium-ATPase (Na,K-ATPase) Subunit Isoform Abundance, ATPase Activity, and Cation-Pump Function in Neonates

Developmental Changes in Erythrocyte Sodium-Potassium-ATPase (Na,K-ATPase) Subunit Isoform Abundance, ATPase Activity, and Cation-Pump Function in Neonates
Creating a favorable emotional climate in the classroom

Abstract The focus of this paper is the creation of a favorable affective climate in the classroom which facilitates learning and improves students' performance. The proper emotional climate is a complex phenomenon which should involve the right balance of emotions in terms of their valence, intensity, sequence, congruence etc. Adaptation of emotional responses to different situations requires application of contingency approach in creating an optimal emotional climate in the classroom. Invoking Hersey and Blanchard's seminal model of Situational Leadership, this paper provides theoretical background for using certain emotional responses in different situations. Using the contingency paradigm allows for reaching an apt level of theoretical generalization, avoiding one best-way approach on the one hand and addressing emotions on a case-by-case basis on the other. Practical steps for increasing/reducing emotional arousal in class are discussed.
Avoidance motivation and relationship commitment in heterosexual, gay male, and lesbian partners

This study examined whether avoidance motivation is distinct from the satisfaction level, quality of alternatives, and investment size components of C. E. Rusbult, J. M. Martz, and C. R. Agnew’s (1998) investment model. Data from 3 samples (392 heterosexual dating partners, 225 heterosexual dating partners, and 351 gay male or lesbian cohabiting partners, respectively) indicated that items tapping satisfaction level, quality of alternatives, investment size, and avoidance motivation defined separate factors and that avoidance motivation accounted for unique variance in commitment. Satisfaction level moderated the link between investment size and commitment for dating partners and moderated the link between quality of alternatives and commitment, investment size and commitment, and avoidance motivation and commitment for gay male or lesbian partners.
Low temperature magnetic susceptibility of ceruloplasmin

The magnetic susceptibility of both ceruloplasmin and its apoprotein was measured in the temperature range from 2 to 4·2°K and at 77°K. The paramagnetic contribution of the cupric ions of ceruloplasmin to the susceptibility obeys the Curie law above 2°K. By combining the Curie constant with published electron spin resonance data, we conclude that 0·44±0·02 of the total copper in the protein is in the cupric, paramagnetic state.
Correction to “Atmospheric rotational effects on Mars based on the NASA Ames general circulation model: Angular momentum approach”

: 9900 Corrections; 5450 Planetology: Solid Surface Planets: Orbital androtational dynamics; 6225 Planetology: Solar System Objects: Mars; 6207 Planetology: SolarSystem Objects: Comparative planetology; 0343 Atmospheric Composition and Structure:Planetary atmospheres (5405, 5407, 5409, 5704, 5705, 5707); K
Divergence and complexities in DAG signaling: looking beyond PKC

Abstract For many years protein kinase C (PKC) has been the subject of extensive studies as a molecular target for the treatment of cancer and other diseases. To better define the role of PKC isozymes in the control of cell proliferation, survival and transformation, the examination of PKC-mediated signal transduction pathways by isozyme-specific intervention has become essential. However, issues related to the selectivity of activators and inhibitors of PKC isozymes, in addition to convoluted cross-talks between phorbol ester-regulated pathways, have greatly complicated our understanding of PKC-mediated responses. An additional level of complexity is provided by the fact diacylglycerol (DAG) signals can be transduced by phorbol ester receptors other than PKC. These receptors include chimaerins, RasGRPs, MUNC13s, PKD (PKCμ) and DAG kinases β and γ. Thus, it is conceivable that some of the effects that were originally attributed to PKC isozymes in response to phorbol esters might be mediated by PKC-independent pathways. A key issue for the design of novel therapeutic strategies that target PKC isozymes is a comprehensive analysis of isozyme-specific signal transduction pathways in different cell types and the development of pharmacological and molecular tools that can distinguish between the various PKC and ‘non-PKC' phorbol ester receptors.
From graduate student to ethnic researcher: a challenging journey.

The goal of this position article is to convey the message to junior faculty with diverse personal characteristics (i.e., female, minority, or majority ethnic scholars) that obstacles encountered in their academic experience may be the result of being perceived as a symbol of sociohistorical problems. For conveying this message, I will tell my story by referring to what I have experienced as transitional phases: (1) "becoming an international student," (2) "from ambassador to minority," (3) "the great insight, sharing our problems," and (4) "overcoming using coping strategies in academic life." Emphasis will be given to coping strategies that I have developed for facing challenging sociohistorical problems while protecting my psychological well-being. Although the literature is sparse, coping strategies are discussed using available literature and personal experiences including the ability: (1) to assume that most problems affecting diverse junior faculty are sociohistorical, (2) to acknowledge the importance of finding mentors for the psychological well-being of junior faculty, (3) to stop replying to stereotypic views and to use energy and time more productively, (4) to respond selectively to collegial and student feedback, (5) to proactively establish collaborative activities, and (6) to have clear career development objectives. I conclude by recognizing the need for junior faculty to assume an advocacy role for creating a new era of equality and change in academe and in multicultural America. Thus, junior faculty need to undergo a major insightful realization leading to an awakening experience portrayed by the phrase: It is not only me.
Comprehension of Language Connectives and Propositional Logical Relationships.

Abstract This study was an investigation of how children and adults comprehend the logical relationships implied by language connectives. Conjunctive expressions were readily understood by young children but comprehension of complex relationships such as disjunction and implication was relatively poor until middle adolescence. The results provide evidence for a gradual developmental differentiation of a general conjunctive strategy into (a) processing of the independent truth status of elements in disjunctive expressions, and (b) cause and effect interpretation of the relation between elements in conditional and biconditional statements.
Epstein–Barr virus load monitoring: its role in the prevention and management of post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disease

: The Epstein–Barr virus load in the peripheral blood at the time of diagnosis of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) is elevated 1000- to 10,000-fold compared to the level detected in normal latency. With the use of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), changes in the viral load over time can be measured with a two- to fourfold accuracy. This has allowed early detection of first-time infections and reactivations that may lead to PTLD and has provided an opportunity to intervene before symptomatic disease has occured. Viral load monitoring has also been used to follow patients with PTLD and, along with other parameters, provided an assessment of the effectiveness of therapeutic protocols. Viral load monitoring has led to the discovery that at least two-thirds of transplant recipients become persistent viral load carriers. While the persistent load appears to be largely carried in latently infected memory B cells, more work is needed to clearly define this type of persistent infection and determine the risks associated with it. New diagnostic tests need to be developed to distinguish the persistent latent viral loads from viral loads that are likely to become symptomatic PTLD.
Adaptive Fuzzy PID Designed for Solenoid Valve Test System

The performance of solenoid valve is directly related to the security and reliability of industrial system. This paper presents the design of the automatic test platform for solenoid valve. The architecture of the hydraulic subsystem and the control model of providing precise pressure for testing solenoid valve were built up. A self-adaptive fuzzy PID controller, which can dynamically modify the controller’s parameters by using fuzzy rules presented in this paper, was designed with considering the dynamic characteristics of hydraulic system. Simulation results show that the self-adaptive fuzzy PID controller, which compared with conventional PID controller, can obtain better dynamic performance and fast response.
An extended bristle friction force model with experimental validation

Abstract Bristle friction force models have been used by many as a preferred method for modeling friction forces. The original bristle friction force model is one-dimensional. It represents the physical reality for some practical application cases but does not accurately represent the friction phenomenon of a general contact between two 3D objects because the friction force vector is possibly rotating in the time-varying common tangential plane of the contacting surfaces. In this research the original integrated bristle friction model is extended to a 3-dimensional model. With such an extension, the resulting friction force model can be used to compute friction forces in both sticking and sliding regimes for general contact dynamics modeling. Simulation examples are presented to demonstrate the application of the model. Experiments were designed and performed to validate the new model. The presented validation exercise demonstrated that the extended bristle friction model can well duplicate experimental results including typical frictional behaviors such as sliding, sticking and stick-slip.
157. Anticipatory stress appraisal is differentially associated with HPA and immune acute stress responses in children with anxiety disorders

Background: Increasing research has focused on the association of alterations in hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) and immune stress response systems with anxiety. This study examines the influence of state cognitive stress appraisal on these relationships. Methods: A social evaluative Cold Pressor Task (CPT) was used to elicit stress among children aged 8–12 years with an anxiety disorder (“Cases” n = 21) and healthy controls (“Controls” n = 22). Repeated saliva samples were assayed for cortisol and S-IgA to determine area under the curve (AUC) and Peak Response. Measures of anticipatory anxiety to the CPT included (1) Brief Fear of Negative Evaluation Scale (BFNE-II) and (2) Primary Appraisal Secondary Appraisal Scale (PASA). Groups were compared on biological and cognitive variables via t -tests; Pearson correlations examined relationships among cognitive variables, cortisol, and IgA within groups. Results: There were no group differences in cortisol or IgA (AUC; Peak Response), BFNE-II, or PASA. Within Cases, S-IgA AUC and Peak Response had significant negative associations with BFNE ( r = −.73, p r = −.52; p = .018, respectively) and PASA-Threat ( r = −.58, p = .006; r = −.61; p = .003, respectively), whereas only cortisol Peak Response had a significant positive association with PASA-Threat ( r = .48, p = .032); associations were not significant in Controls. Conclusions: Children with anxiety disorders who appraise acute situations as more threatening and negatively evaluative may be at increased risk for aberrant HPA and immune stress responses to acute stress.
Interference filters for the infrared

Representative transmission curves of interference filters made with evaporated multilayers of tellurium and rock salt for the region around 10 μ are given. The filter band pass may, however, be located at any wavelength in the 5 to 20-μ spectral region.
THE PROCESS OF DEMILITARIZATION AND THE REVERSIBILITY OF THE PEACE PROCESS IN NORTHERN IRELAND

The process of militarization has permeated Northern Ireland society both overtly and in more subtle and pervasive ways. Since the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, reductions in state military personnel and infrastructure have been made and several acts of paramilitary decommissioning of weapons carried out. However, the political culture and discourse remains combative and bifurcated as the democratic institutions and processes struggle to achieve viability. Support for the Agreement has faltered as the raised expectations of improvements in quality of life, particularly in communities worst affected by the Troubles, have not been met. Vacuums such as the rolelessness amongst former combatants and gaps in policing have contributed to internecine conflict. As in South Africa, there has been a transition from political to criminal violence in local communities. A formal process of demobilization, demilitarization and reintegration of former paramilitary actors, combined with training in political skills woul...
Estimation of fractal signals from noisy measurements using wavelets

The role of the wavelet transformation as a whitening filter for 1/f processes is exploited to address problems of parameter and signal estimations for 1/f processes embedded in white background noise. Robust, computationally efficient, and consistent iterative parameter estimation algorithms are derived based on the method of maximum likelihood, and Cramer-Rao bounds are obtained. Included among these algorithms are optimal fractal dimension estimators for noisy data. Algorithms for obtaining Bayesian minimum-mean-square signal estimates are also derived together with an explicit formula for the resulting error. These smoothing algorithms find application in signal enhancement and restoration. The parameter estimation algorithms find application in signal enhancement and restoration. The parameter estimation algorithms, in addition to solving the spectrum estimation problem and to providing parameters for the smoothing process, are useful in problems of signal detection and classification. Results from simulations are presented to demonstrated the viability of the algorithms. >
Heller Myotomy Versus Heller Myotomy With Dor Fundoplication for Achalasia: A Prospective Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial

Since the first report of laparoscopic Heller myotomy in 1991 by Shimi et al1 and thoracoscopic Heller myotomy by Pellegrini et al2 in 1992, minimally invasive techniques have been increasingly used for the treatment of achalasia. Many surgeons have noticed a distinct change in the referral patterns for treatment of achalasia now that minimally invasive techniques are available. Patti and colleagues3 in 2002 reported that during the past decade, their center at the University of California, San Francisco, saw a marked increase in the number of patients who were referred for laparoscopic Heller myotomy with a corresponding decrease in use of pneumatic balloon dilation or botulinum toxin injection. Laparoscopic Heller myotomy is the preferred treatment at Vanderbilt, and we have previously reported our results and technique.4 A great deal of controversy exists over the appropriate use of antireflux procedures to prevent reflux after myotomy. The arguments for using a partial antireflux procedure with laparoscopic Heller myotomy have been summarized nicely by Peters,5 and the arguments against the routine use of an antireflux procedure were presented by our group during a Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract symposium in 2000.6 A recent meta-analysis of laparoscopic Heller myotomy with or without antireflux procedure from 1991 to 2001 was performed by Lyass et al.7 Pathologic acid exposure was identified by 24-hour pH studies in 7.9% of 489 patients who underwent Heller with partial fundoplication. Forty-seven patients who had previously undergone Heller without antireflux procedure were studied with 24-hour pH monitoring and only 4, or 10%, of the 40 patients had pathologic acid exposure. This meta-analysis concluded “based on the reported data in human subjects that no recommendations could be made regarding the efficacy of partial antireflux procedures in protecting against pathologic gastroesophageal reflux (GER) after esophageal Heller myotomy.” We have completed a study that randomized 43 patients with achalasia to Heller myotomy alone or to Heller myotomy plus Dor fundoplication. The study was designed as a double-blind, parallel-group randomized trial to test the null hypothesis that the addition of Dor fundoplication will not alter the incidence of pathologic GER in these patients.
N.W. Mordvinov (1754–1845): Father of Economic Freedoms in Russia?

Gives an account of Count N.S. Mordvinov (1754‐1845) who was a Minister of Economics, an economist and a scholar of Adam Smith′s economics who effectively politicized Smithian economic ideas and the need for economic freedom in Tsarist Russia. His advice, given to Tsar Alexander I and to Tsar Nicholas I, was embodied in legislation but did not appear to have administrative impact. Although the economic ideas of Adam Smith had a political dimension alien to the objectives of the Russian rulers, the Smithian values, as promoted by Count Mordvinov and embodied in his written works, having been imported as early as 1760‐1770, have not previously been discussed and debated in the twentieth century.
Neck dissection followed by chemoradiotherapy for stage IV (N+) oropharynx cancer.

Purpose This study evaluated the strategy of performing neck dissection (ND) without primary tumor resection prior to definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for N2+ oropharynx cancer. Methods We analyzed records of 25 patients who underwent ND before concurrent CRT with weekly low-dose concurrent paclitaxel and a platinum compound. The extent of ND was highly customized (1 to 39 nodes) and median radiotherapy dose was 70 Gy. Results Median follow-up was 36 months. Two-year and 3-year actuarial locoregional control rates were 95% and 88%. No patient had regional neck nodal failure. Two-year rate of freedom from distant metastases was 91%. The 2- and 3-year event-free survival rates were 88% and 75%. Fifteen percent had Grade 3+ late toxicity; none had permanent gastrostomy tube dependence. Conclusions Neck dissection without primary tumor resection before definitive chemoradiotherapy for oropharynx cancer is a safe and effective management program and warrants further exploration.
Identification of Rhodococcus erythropolis isolates capable of degrading the fungicide carbendazim

Continuous enrichment cultures were used to identify bacterial isolates capable of degrading the fungicide carbendazim. The bacteria originated from sites that had been repeatedly treated with the structurally related parent fungicide, benomyl, over a period of several years. Six isolates were identified as carbendazim degraders on the basis of their ability to produce diffusion-clearing zones on a minimal salts solid medium spray-coated with a 0.1% solution of carbendazim, their ability to grow in a minimal salts broth supplemented with carbendazim as the sole carbon source, and their ability to reduce carbendazim levels in liquid cultures. All six isolates were identified as Rhodococcus erythropolis or a closely related species by analyses of nutritional utilization and whole-cell fatty acid methyl ester profiles. A chemically induced mutant of R. erythropolis isolate B2E was identified that was no longer capable of degrading carbendazim, as determined by negative results in all three assays. Further characterization of these strains provides an opportunity for their development in bioremediation of the compound.
Duplication of a Gene-Rich Cluster between 16p11.1 and Xq28: A Novel Pericentromeric-Directed Mechanism for Paralogous Genome Evolution

We have identified a 26.5 kb gene-rich duplication shared by human Xq28 and 16p11.1. Complete comparative sequence analysis of cosmids from both loci has revealed identical Xq28 and 16p11.1 genomic structures for both the human creatine transporter gene (SLC6A8) and five exons of the CDM gene (DXS1357E). Overall nucleotide similarity within the duplication was found to be 94.6%, suggesting that this interchromosomal duplication occurred within recent evolutionary time (7-10 mya). Based on comparisons between genomic and cDNA sequence, both the Xq28 creatine transporter and DXS1357E genes are transcriptionally active. Predicted translation of exons and RT-PCR analysis reveal that chromosome 16 paralogs likely represent pseudogenes. Comparative fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analyses of chromosomes from various primates indicate that this gene-rich segment has undergone several duplications. In gorilla and chimpanzee, multiple pericentromeric localizations on a variety of chromosomes were found using probes from the duplicated region. In other species, such as the orangutan and gibbon, FISH signals were only identified at the distal end of the X chromosome, suggesting that the Xq28 locus represents the ancestral copy. Sequencing of the 16p 11.1/Xq28 duplication breakpoints has revealed the presence of repetitive immunoglobulin-like CAGGG pentamer sequences at or near the paralogy boundaries. The mobilization and dispersal of this gene-rich 27 kb element to the pericentromeric regions of primate chromosomes defines an unprecedented form of recent genome evolution and a novel mechanism for the generation of genetic diversity among closely related species.