cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Platelet-activating factor: a novel lipid agonist.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses platelet-activating factor. Platelet-activating factor is a term coined by Benveniste. The most significant advances in establishing the fluid phase mediator as a definitive chemical and biochemical entity were made through the use of the immunoglobulin E (IgE) rabbit as a model for systemic anaphylaxis. Severe thrombocytopenia, basopenia, and neutropenia result from the production and release of platelet-activating factor. The semisynthesis of platelet-activating factor and a hypotensive agent from kidney was achieved by comparable methods. The primary system for the assay of platelet-activating factor and of related compounds has been the washed rabbit platelet. It is a particularly sensitive cell, with excellent reproducibility characteristics. The major end point in the assay is aggregation and secretion of serotonin (granules) as well as other components such as adenosine triphosphate. Platelet-activating factor has at present been shown to initiate a variety of biological reactions in vivo and in vitro . These include profound vasoactive effects on human skin.
Benchmarking Attribution Methods with Relative Feature Importance

Interpretability is an important area of research for safe deployment of machine learning systems. One particular type of interpretability method attributes model decisions to input features. Despite active development, quantitative evaluation of feature attribution methods remains difficult due to the lack of ground truth: we do not know which input features are in fact important to a model. In this work, we propose a framework for Benchmarking Attribution Methods (BAM) with a priori knowledge of relative feature importance. BAM includes 1) a carefully crafted dataset and models trained with known relative feature importance and 2) three complementary metrics to quantitatively evaluate attribution methods by comparing feature attributions between pairs of models and pairs of inputs. Our evaluation on several widely-used attribution methods suggests that certain methods are more likely to produce false positive explanations---features that are incorrectly attributed as more important to model prediction. We open source our dataset, models, and metrics.
Flexible Body-Conformal Ultrasound Patches for Image-Guided Neuromodulation

The paper presents the design and validation of body-conformal active ultrasound patches with integrated imaging and modulation modalities for image-guided neural therapy. A mechanically-flexible linear 64-element array of piezoelectric transducers with a resonance frequency of 5 MHz was designed for nerve localization. A second 8-element array using larger elements was integrated on the wearable probe for low intensity focused ultrasound neuromodulation at a resonance frequency of 1.3 MHz. Full-wave simulations were used to model the flexible arrays and estimate their generated pressure profiles. A focal depth of 10–20 mm was assumed for beamforming and focusing to support modulation of the vagus, tibial, and other nerves. A strain sensor integrated on the probe provides patient-specific feedback information on array curvature for real-time optimization of focusing and image processing. Each patch also includes high voltage (HV) multiplexers, transmit/receive switches, and pre-amplifiers that simplify connectivity and also improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the received echo signals by $\sim$ 5 dB. Experimental results from a flexible prototype show a sensitivity of 80 kPa/V with $\sim$ 3 MHz bandwidth for the modulation and 20 kPa/V with $\sim$ 6 MHz bandwidth for the imaging array. An algorithm for accurate and automatic localization of targeted nerves based on using nearby blood vessels (e.g., the carotid artery) as image markers is also presented.
Global diversity of dietary intakes and standards for zinc, iron, and copper.

Abstract Background The essentiality of trace elements in human diets is well recognized and adequate levels are a critical component of optimal health. To date, public health efforts have focused primarily on macronutrients or trace minerals that are easily analyzed. The goal of this research is to provide assessment of the dietary standards developed for Zn, Fe, and Cu in 100+ developed, marginal, and developing countries. We summarize the current recommendations and changes from the last decade, categorize and provide scientific basis for values established, factors that affect requirements, and current global challenges. Methods The electronic databases of Google Scholar, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were searched using the keywords “trace minerals,” “micronutrients, ““zinc,” “iron,” “copper,” “dietary standards” and “recommendations.” A total of 123 studies published from 1965 to 2019 were included. Results The World Health Organization (WHO) has established dietary standards to address nutrient deficiencies, prevent infections and ensure basic metabolic functions; these are utilized by most developing countries. Developed countries or their alliances have established values similar to or higher than the WHO, primarily for promotion of optimal health and well-being. Transitional countries are more concerned with issues of bioavailability, food security and undernutrition. Globally, Zn and Cu recommendations are lower in women than in men; Fe requirements are higher to compensate for menstrual losses. Important considerations in establishing guidelines for these minerals include bioaccessibility, dietary practices and restrictions, food processing, interactions, and chemical forms. The global challenges of the triple burden of malnutrition, hidden hunger, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and obesity have been associated with Zn, Fe, and Cu deficiencies. Conclusion This research provides public policy and health professionals evidenced-based information useful for the establishment of dietary standards world-wide.
"I'll Be Back": A Taxonomy of Death and Rebirth in Platformer Video Games

Failure, often represented through death, is a central aspect of almost every video game. In-game death can drive player perceptions of difficulty and greatly impact the core player experience; however, there is surprisingly limited amounts of research examining how games actually handle this occurrence. We posit that this is a rich, underexplored space with significant implications for player experience and the design of many games. This paper presents our initial exploration into the space of player death and rebirth through the creation of a generalized taxonomy developed from 62 recent platformer games. Our taxonomy consists of five key dimensions: 1) obstacles, 2) death conditions, 3) aesthetics, 4) changes to player progress, and 5) respawn locations.
Design the Standard of Low Magnetic Field by Computer Simulation

Abstract Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is examined as a primary standard method for measurement of magnetic field. Nevertheless, it can not satisfy the calibration of measurement below 500 gauss[l]. A simulation of low magnetic field is adopted to design a standard which will meet the requirements to calibrate the measurement of low magnetic field. In this paper, the mathematic models of various ways are presented. Finally, the Helmholtz coil type is chosen to be a suitable case whose homogenity is better than 1% in central field from 10 gauss to 200 gauss.
Shared Autonomous Interface for Reducing Physical Effort in Robot Teleoperation via Human Motion Mapping

Motion mapping is an intuitive method of teleoperation with a low learning curve. Our previous study investigates the physical fatigue caused by teleoperating a robot to perform general-purpose assistive tasks and this fatigue affects the operator’s performance. The results from that study indicate that physical fatigue happens more in the tasks which involve more precise manipulation and steady posture maintenance. In this paper, we investigate how teleoperation assistance in terms of shared autonomy can reduce the physical workload in robot teleoperation via motion mapping. Specifically, we conduct a user study to compare the muscle effort in teleoperating a mobile humanoid robot to (1) reach and grasp an individual object and (2) collect objects in a cluttered workspace with and without an autonomous grasping function that can be triggered manually by the teleoperator. We also compare the participants’ task performance, subjective user experience, and change in attitude towards the usage of teleoperation assistance in the future based on their experience using the assistance function. Our results show that: (1) teleoperation assistance like autonomous grasping can effectively reduce the physical effort, task completion time and number of errors; (2) based on their experience performing the tasks with and without assistance, the teleoperators reported that they would prefer to use automated functions for future teleoperation interfaces.
Extended finite element modeling of fatigue crack growth microstructural mechanisms in alloys with secondary/reinforcing phases: model development and validation

Light structural metals have been extensively applied throughout the transportation sector in recent years with greater impetus to reduce vehicle weight and enhance energy efficiency. However, their use is restricted by the engineering challenge of fatigue crack growth and the need to understand, simulate, and predict crack propagation mechanisms with respect to materials’ microstructure. To address this need, a comprehensive computational methodology has been developed using the extended finite element method to predict fatigue crack interaction mechanisms with characteristic microstructural features. Mathematical formulations and algorithmic development are rigorously addressed, with specific emphasis on the incorporation of relevant physical phenomena of plasticity and particle debonding/fracture. This approach is validated by comparison with analytical models and experiments on cast aluminum–silicon alloys using digital image correlation. The proposed methodology constitutes a framework for the successful development, application, and advancement of computational design of materials. Ultimately, this contributes to material/process selection and design for structural integrity by enabling rapid assessment of fatigue crack growth resistance without prior testing, thereby reducing of the extent of costly experimental investigations.
Delayed Surgery Does Not Increase Risk in Urgent Colectomy for Ulcerative Colitis

BackgroundMedical management is the cornerstone of therapy for ulcerative colitis (UC). In the setting of fulminant disease, hospitalized patients may undergo medical rescue therapy (MRT) or urgent...
Investigation of False Data Injection Attacks on Smart Inverter Settings

With drive towards renewable-heavy smart grid, the use of smart inverters to provide grid support services is becoming more attractive. The dynamic operation of smart inverters (SI) are determined by their settings and operating curves. Though, it is generally believed that an attack on the SI settings could have a negative impact on the system, till date, no study has presented any findings. This paper presents an investigation of the potential impact of false data injection (FDI) on SI operation and their impacts on the distribution feeder using real word data from a 1.4 MW PV plant located on the Engineering campus in FIU. A case study of the IEEE 8500 node (which captures the characteristic of actual distribution feeder) with six PVs is investigated. Three SI functions (Volt-VAR, Volt-Watt and constant power factor) are used for FDI attack scenarios. The simulation results show the potential impacts of these attacks on the voltage profiles, overall system looses and the operations of other voltage control legacy devices in the network. The severity of the FDI attacks depends of the prvailing SI functions during the attack.
Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common postoperative complication. The incidence of AKI after surgery may be as high as 36 % depending on the definition of kidney injury used, the length of time the patient is followed postoperatively, and the type of surgery. Up to 7 % of these patients may go on to require renal replacement therapy (RRT). Some types of surgeries increase the risk of AKI. The development of postoperative AKI is associated with an increased risk of 30-day readmission, length of stay, and mortality. Therefore, it is important for the internal medicine consultant to consider the risk of postoperative renal failure, and how it may be mitigated.
Effect of amplitude-based respiratory gating on image quantification

1383 Objectives Respiratory motion causes blurring of lesions, underestimation of radionuclide uptake and overestimation of lesion volumes. Amplitude-based respiratory gating divides the respiratory cycle into different amplitude ranges and reconstructs images based on the range which corresponds to the smallest amount of respiratory motion. It thus reduces motion induced image blurring and improves quantification. This study sought to investigate the effect of a specific type of amplitude-based gating termed HD·Chest (HD) on image quantification1. Methods Whole body FDG-PET/CT was performed in 100 patients with lung lesions using a Siemens mCT scanner. Respiratory gating was performed using HD with images reconstructed with 35% of acquired PET data. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and peak SUV (SUVpeak) of lung lesions were defined on gated and non-gated images. Lesions were grouped according to their anatomical location and histology. Differences in SUVmax and SUVpeak between gated and non-gated images were calculated and assessed using rank sign testing (Wilcoxon). Results With HD, SUVmax increased 14.4% (± 21.1) for all lesions, 10% (± 10.0) for lesions located in the upper lobes, and 20% (± 28.6%) for lesions located in the lower and middle lobes. SUVpeak increased by 8.3% (± 14.4) for all lesions with an average of 4.3% (± 5.8) increase in upper lobe and 13.5% (± 13.5) increase in lower and middle lobe lesions (p Conclusions HD is a viable approach to correct the effect of respiratory motion on FDG PET image quantification with potential impact on diagnosis, response monitoring and radiation therapy planning.
Longitudinal Cognitive Profiles by Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms in American Older Adults With Subjective Cognitive Decline.

PURPOSE The objective of this study was to determine how anxiety and/or depressive symptoms differentially affect specific cognitive domains over time in persons with subjective cognitive decline (SCD). DESIGN A longitudinal, observational study was conducted using data from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center-Uniform Data Set. Mean follow-up was 4.1 ± 2.4 years. METHODS Using information from a total of 1401 participants (age 74.0 ± 8.2 years), linear mixed-effects regression models were used to assess longitudinal changes in global cognition, episodic memory, attention, language, and executive function by baseline psychological (anxiety [A] and/or depressive [D]) symptoms in individuals with SCD. Reference was the group having no symptoms (A-/D-). FINDINGS The A+/D- group was not associated with any cognitive changes. The A-/D+ group was associated with a greater decline in episodic memory and executive function. The A+/D+ group had a greater decline in attention. Changes in global cognition and language were not predicted by any psychological symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Depressive symptoms predicted lower episodic memory and executive function. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Nurses need to pay attention to depressive symptoms in older adults with SCD because managing depressive symptoms may help protect against cognitive decline more typical of early Alzheimer's dementia.
Neonatal Anesthesia with Emphasis on Newborn Physiology and Airway Management

The foundation of neonatal anesthesia lies in the understanding of neonatal physiology and the challenges of the neonatal transition from fetal physiology. A thorough preoperative assessment of the neonate is essential prior to any surgery, including a history, physical exam, and any necessary studies. The neonatal airway is notable for being smaller, more anterior, and more cephalad in comparison to adults and should be examined for features of a difficult airway. A comprehensive review of airway management, respiratory physiology, and cardiovascular physiology is imperative to the intraoperative and postoperative management of the neonate. The fundamentals of neonatal physiology establish the basis for successfully guiding a neonate through the perioperative period.
Blast induced neurotrauma causes overpressure dependent changes to the DNA methylation equilibrium

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has a high prevalence in our society and often leads to morbidity and mortality. TBI also occurs frequently in a military setting where exposure to blast waves is common. Abnormal gene expression involved with oxidative stress, inflammation and neuronal apoptosis has been well documented following blast induced neurotrauma (BINT). Altered epigenetic transcriptional regulation through DNA methylation has been implicated in the pathology of the injury. Imbalance between DNA methylation and DNA demethylation may lead to altered methylation patterns and subsequent changes in gene transcription. DNA methyltransferase enzymes (DNMT1, DNMT3a, and DNMT3b) are responsible for the addition of methyl groups to DNA, DNA methylation. Whereas the combined function of ten-eleven translocation enzymes (TET1, TET2, and TET3) and thymine-DNA glycosylase (TDG) result in the removal of methyl groups from DNA, DNA demethylation. We used an established rodent model of BINT to assess changes in DNA methylation and demethylation enzymes following injury. Three different blast overpressures were investigated (10, 17 and 23psi). Gene expression was investigated in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus two weeks following injury. We observed DNMT, TET and TDG expression changes between pressure groups and brain regions. The hippocampus was more vulnerable to enzyme expression changes than the prefrontal cortex, which correlated with aberrant DNA methylation. A significant negative correlation was found between global DNA methylation and the magnitude of blast overpressure exposure. Through transcriptional regulation, altered DNA methylation patterns may offer insight into the characteristic outcomes associated with the injury pathology including inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis. As such, these enzymes may be important targets to future therapeutic intervention strategies.
Entrepreneurial Spirituality and Community Outreach in African American Churches

Faith-based institutions will have to display greater entrepreneurial acumen in their efforts to solve pressing societal problems in the years ahead. Entrepreneurial spirituality is a promising approach to addressing unmet social and economic needs. We illustrate how this concept is being used by two, predominantly black mega-churches to foster and facilitate local community economic development and present a concrete example of a church-based social entrepreneurial venture that is designed to reduce fall-related injuries and deaths among the black elderly. We conclude with a discussion of the challenges and opportunities to scale entrepreneurial spirituality approaches to poverty alleviation, job creation, and community development in America.
What Genomics Has Taught Us about Gram-Positive Protein Secretion and Targeting

This chapter briefly reviews the Sec pathway and its modification in gram-positive bacteria and discusses second independent protein targeting pathways. Some gram-positive bacteria have evolved protein secretion machines dedicated to the assembly of macro-molecular structures such as flagella, type 4 pili, or Flp pili, all of which can be viewed by light or electron microscopy as elongated organelles that protrude from the cell surface. The chapter describes the general principles of protein secretion in gram-positive bacteria along with a few examples. The factors that catalyze protein secretion can be predicted in silico and identified in genomes of all gram-positive bacteria. Sec-mediated protein secretion has been best studied in Escherichia coli and, more recently, in Bacillus subtilis. S-layer proteins are deposited on the surface of gram-positive bacteria to establish specific interactions with cell wall polymers. Many other proteins decorate the cell wall envelope of gram-positive bacteria but are not covalently attached to the envelope. The major subunit of flagella, flagellin, is exported through the hollow conduct made by the basal body across the membrane and hook. Rational vaccine design was achieved by interrogating conserved antigens (secreted or surface displayed) for protective immunity, which led to the identification of multiple surface proteins of group B streptococci as candidates.
Crystalline cytochrome c peroxidase and complex ES.

Cytochrome c peroxidase, purified from bakers' yeast, has been obtained in crystalline form. Upon the addition of hydroperoxides, crystals of the enzyme were readily converted to those of Complex ES without modification of their crystalline form. As judged from their size, shape, and stability, these crystals of cytochrome c peroxidase and Complex ES appear to be a suitable material for biophysical studies of a single crystal.
Low frequency electrical noise in bulk YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7/

Low-frequency electrical noise measurements of bulk YBa/sub 2/Cu/sub 3/O/sub 7/ are reported for samples that were prepared by oxalate precipitation. The resistance versus temperature curve for these materials flattens into a pronounced 'tail' just before the samples become fully superconducting. 1/f noise appeared high on this resistive tail. The normalized noise level showed a peak right at the top of the tail, then gradually decreased as the temperature was increased towards room temperature. A second peak occurred around 200 K. Noise levels were significantly higher in a 5.07 g/cm/sup 3/ sample than in a 4.44 g/cm/sup 3/ sample. >
Stress Relaxation of Compression Loaded Plasma-Sprayed 7 Wt% Y2O3–ZrO2 Stand-Alone Coatings

Stand-alone plasma-sprayed tubes of 7 wt% Y2O3–ZrO2 made from the same starting powder but at two different sites were subject to stress-relaxation testing in axial compression at temperatures of 25°, 1000°, 1050°, 1100°, and 1200°C and at an initial stress of 10–80 MPa. A time-dependent stress response was observed for both coatings at all temperatures. For example, a 20 MPa stress applied at 1050°C relaxed to ∼3 MPa in 180 min. When the same initial stress was applied at 1200°C, the coating fully relaxed in 32 min. For all experimental conditions evaluated, an initial fast stress-relaxation regime was observed ( 10 min). Coatings with higher as-sprayed densities exhibited a lengthened fast relaxation regime as compared with less dense coatings. A Maxwell model was modified in order to provide an accurate fit to the experimental stress-relaxation curves. From scanning electron microscopy experiments and mechanical data, the mechanism for stress relaxation from 25°C through 1200°C, particularly during fast relaxation, was proposed to be the formation of cracks parallel with respect to the applied load. In addition to this mechanism, stress relaxation that occurred in specimens tested at 1000°C through 1200°C was proposed to be due to partial or complete closure of cracks oriented perpendicular to the applied stress.
A/D precision requirements for an ultra-wideband radio receiver

Ultra wideband radio (UWB) is a new wireless technology that uses narrow pulses to transmit information. Implementing an "all-digital" UWB receiver has numerous potential benefits ranging from low-cost and ease-of-design to flexibility. Digitizing an RF signal near the antenna, however, introduces its own set of challenges and has traditionally been considered infeasible. A high-speed, high-resolution analog-digital converter (ADC) is difficult to design, and is extremely power-hungry. The viability of an "all-digital" architecture, therefore, hinges upon the specifications of this block. In this paper, we demonstrate that 4 bits of resolution are sufficient for reliable detection of a typical UWB signal that is swamped in noise and interference.
Pharmacogenetics and cancer therapy

Pharmacogenetics is the study of how genetic variations affect drug response. These variations can affect a patient's response to cancer drugs, for which there is usually a fine line between a dosage that has a therapeutic effect and one that produces toxicity. Gaining better insight into the genetic elements of both the patient and the tumour that affect drug efficacy will eventually allow for individualized dosage determination and fewer adverse effects.
Catalyst-Free bottom-up synthesis of few-layer hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets

A novel catalyst-free methodology has been developed to prepare few-layer hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets using a bottom-up process. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (both high and low resolution) exhibit evidence of less than ten layers of nanosheets with uniform dimension. X-ray diffraction pattern and other additional characterization techniques prove crystallinity and purity of the product.
Effects of the interaction of sex and food intake on the relation between energy expenditure and body composition

Background: The relation between physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) and percentage body fat (%BF) is not very strong in the general population. It is possible that variables such as sex, food intake, or both may in part explain this poor coupling. Objective: This study was designed to show the relation between PAEE and %BF and to determine whether sex, food intake, or both influence the strength of the relation. Design: We used doubly labeled water or energy intake balance, indirect calorimetry, dietary interview, and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to measure total energy expenditure (TEE), resting energy expenditure (REE), food intake, and %BF, respectively, in 91 healthy persons (women: aged 48 y, 38.6%BF, n = 47; men: aged 47 y, 24.1%BF, n = 44). Results: TEE, PAEE, and REE were significantly lower in women than in men. TEE was related to %BF in women (r = 0.53, P 0.05). The relation between PAEE and %BF was significant in men (r = -0.34, P < 0.03) but not in women. PAL was also significantly related to %BF in men (r = -0.36, P < 0.02) but not in women. Macronutrient intake (% oftotal energy) did not differ significantly between the sexes, but carbohydrate (r = -0.44, P < 0.003) and fat (r = 0.31, P < 0.04) intakes were significantly related to %BF in women. Conclusions: These results suggest that the relation between PAEE and %BF is stronger in men than in women. Macronutrient composition seems have a stronger influence on %BF in women than in men.
La administración pública de los EE.UU.: de lo local a lo global

La interaccion de las fuerzas mundiales y locales ha incrementado las demandas por un buen gobierno a nivel mundial. De este modo, mediante el aumento de la demanda por respuestas eficaces a las tendencias y eventos, la globalizacion ha ayudado a transformar la politica y la administracion publica en los EE.UU., poniendo de relieve las tensiones entre el globalismo y el parroquialismo, la formulacion de politicas publicas basada en el Estado y en el mercado, y la soberania nacional y la gobernanza en red. La globalizacion tambien ha puesto de manifiesto los conflictos academicos dentro de la teoria de la administracion publica, incluidas las tensiones entre los enfoques disciplinarios y los multidisciplinarios, entre la economia y otras disciplinas de las ciencias sociales, y las tensiones en torno a la administracion comparada, la administracion del desarrollo y la Nueva Gerencia Publica global, como enfoques de la administracion publica internacional. Disputas academicas a un lado, la aplicacion de investigaciones comparadas de la administracion publica a los problemas mundiales del desarrollo es un reto. Mientras que las “mejores practicas” de la administracion publica asumen que las innovaciones se pueden transferir facilmente de una situacion a otra, las “practicas inteligentes” de la administracion publica se centran en como la cultura y otras variables contextuales afectan la viabilidad y sostenibilidad de las reformas administrativas. Debido a que las mismas competencias se requieren de los administradores publicos en diversos equipos de trabajo multiculturales, tanto internacionales como nacionales, la globalizacion tambien ha contribuido a la convergencia de la gestion de la diversidad nacional, las politicas multiculturales globales y los programas en los lugares de trabajo publicos y privados. Los administradores publicos pueden llegar a ser mas..
A Cultural and Entomological Review of the Osage Orange (Maclura pomifera (Raf.) Schneid.) (Moraceae) and the Origin and Early Spread of “Hedge Apple” Folklore

Abstract Maclura pomifera (Osage Orange) is a singular tree with an extraordinary history. It was discussed by presidents, part of two national “manias”, helped open up parts of the Midwest to early settlers, and was the subject of enduring entomological folklore (“a single fruit, known as a hedge apple, will drive cockroaches from a room within hours and keep them away for months”). The origin and early spread of the folklore have been discovered. A complete list of all arthropods (54 spp.) known to be associated with the tree is provided. Only a single insect species, Solva pallipes (Loew) (Diptera: Xylomyidae), had been previously reported from the fruit, but herein an additional 30 species from a survey of hedge apples from Missouri, Arkansas, and Louisiana are reported. Possible future applications of hedge apples, including the rearing of S. pallipes for entomophagy, supplemental nourishment for livestock, and/or biodiesel, are discussed. “Outstanding Tree: not particularly outstanding” Gilman and W...
Identifying Mother-Child Interaction Styles Using a Person-Centered Approach.

Parent–child conflict in the context of a supportive relationship has been discussed as a potentially constructive interaction pattern; the current study is the first to test this using a holistic analytic approach. Interaction styles, defined as mother–child conflict in the context of maternal sensitivity, were identified and described with demographic and stress-related characteristics of families. Longitudinal associations were tested between interaction styles and children's later social competence. Participants included 814 partnered mothers with a first-grade child. Latent profile analysis identified agreeable, dynamic, and disconnected interaction styles. Mothers' intimacy with a partner, depressive symptoms, and authoritarian childrearing beliefs, along with children's later conflict with a best friend and externalizing problems, were associated with group membership. Notably, the dynamic style, characterized by high sensitivity and high conflict, included families who experienced psychological and relational stressors. Findings are discussed with regard to how family stressors shape parent–child interaction patterns.
Sensorless speed estimation of mains-fed induction motors for condition monitoring using motor relays

Continuous online monitoring of electrical assets is critical for reducing the process downtime and the associated financial losses in industrial applications. Majority of large induction motors, which are critical to industrial applications, are mains-fed. Condition monitoring of these mains-fed motors is critical for reducing the failure rate of these motor systems. Motor relays, commonly used to protect these motors, are ideal candidate for implementing condition monitoring techniques. Accurate speed estimation is essential to ensure reliable online and continuous monitoring of industrial motors. However, due to limited data collection capabilities of the motor relays, limited speed estimation accuracy has been the bottleneck toward reliable condition monitoring using motor relays. In this paper, an accurate speed estimation technique is proposed for mains-fed induction motors. The technique only requires shorter memory of the motor current/voltage data in comparison to previous techniques, which makes it ideal to implement in motor relays. The technique is demonstrated through lab validation. The improvement of condition monitoring reliability with the help of the proposed speed estimation technique is also presented.
Prostate cancer volume adds significantly to prostate-specific antigen in the prediction of early biochemical failure after external beam radiation therapy

Abstract Purpose: A new clinical pretreatment quantity that closely approximates the true prostate cancer volume is defined. Methods and Materials: The cancer-specific prostate-specific antigen (PSA), PSA density, prostate cancer volume (V ca ), and the volume fraction of the gland involved with carcinoma (V ca fx) were calculated for 227 prostate cancer patients managed definitely with external beam radiation therapy. 1.1. PSA density=PSA/ultrasound prostate gland volume 2.2. Cancer-specific PSA=PSA - [PSA from benign epithelial tissue] 3.3. V ca = Cancer-specific PSA/[PSA in serum per cm 3 of cancer] 4.4. V ca fx = V ca /ultrasound prostate gland volume A Cox multiple regression analysis was used to test whether any of these clinical pretreatment parameters added significantly to PSA in predicting early postradiation PSA failure. Reulsts: The prostate cancer volume ( p = 0.039) and the volume fraction of the gland involved by carcinoma ( p = 0.035) significantly added to the PSA in predicting postradiation PSA failure. Conversely, the PSA density and the cancer-specific PSA did not add significantly ( p = 0.05) to PSA in predicting postradiation PSA failure. The 20-month actuarial PSA failure-free rates for patients with calculated tumor volumes of ≤0.5 cm 3 , 0.5−4.0 cm 3 , and >4.0 cm 3 were 92, 80, and 47%, respectively ( p = 0.00004). Conclusion: The volume of prostate cancer (V ca ) and the resulting volume fraction of cancer both added significantly to PSA in their ability to predict for early postradiation PSA failure. These new parameters may be used to select patients in prospective randomized trials that examine the efficacy of combining radiation and androgen ablative therapy in patients with clinically localized disease, who are at high risk for early postradiation failure.
Nonlinear excitation in biology: Current applications and future needs

Over the past decade multiphoton microscopy has proven to be valuable tool for biological and biomedical applications. This talk focuses on some of the areas of technology development and optics research needed to further advance and complement the use of the technology for future biomedical applications.
Spatial distribution of fungal and bacterial biomass in southern Ohio hardwood forest soils: fine scale variability and microscale patterns

Fine scale variations and microscale spatial patterns of fungal biomass, bacterial biomass and soil properties were examined in a hardwood forest in southern Ohio. Two 0.5×2.0 m macroplots and four 10×10 cm microplots were established 0.25 m upslope and downslope of the base of a red oak (Quercus rubra) tree in a mixed oak forest in southeastern Ohio. These plots were sampled in a regular grid pattern for bacterial and fungal biomass, organic C, pH and moisture. Semivariance analysis was used to determine the degree of spatial autocorrelation among the samples from each plot. Significant linear/sill models for microbial and soil variables were produced for the two macroplots and the majority of the microplots. The proportion of variation accounted for by spatial pattern ranged from 0 to 100% for microbial variables, depending on location and variable. Patterns of variation for all variables measured in all plots were mapped using kriging. From the semivariance analysis, the kriged maps and path analysis, it became apparent that the spatial patterns of microbial biomass and organic C were condensed upslope of the tree base and expanded downslope below the tree base. Overall, the results indicate that considerable spatial variability in fungal and bacterial biomass exists at the 1–10 cm scale, and that this variability can be adequately managed by sampling in a pattern which takes into account both random and non-random (spatial) components of variation.
Key appropriations subcommittee assignments

Below are membership lists for appropriations subcommittees in the 100th Congress that have direct jurisdiction over geophysical research. Last week, Eos published membership lists for other key congressional committees (Eos, March 10, 1987, p. 138.). Letters to Senate committees should be addressed to the committee, U.S. Senate, Washington, DC 20510; letters to House committees should be addressed to the committee, U.S. House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515. Initial contacts with committee and subcommittee staff may be valuable. For additional guidelines on contacting a member of Congress or congressional staff, see “AGU's Guide to Legislative Information and Contacts” (Eos, September 30, 1986, p. 739).
H∞-control of nonlinear time-varying systems with finite time horizon

The finite time horizon H ∞-control problems for nonlinear time-varying systems are considered where the initial state is unknown. They are solved by using both static state feedback and dynamic output feedback controllers. A class of nonlinear H ∞-controllers is parameterized as nonlinear fractional transformation on contractive nonlinear parameters. The solvability for nonlinear finite time horizon H ∞-control problem requires suitable solutions to some Hamilton-Jacobi inequalities (equations).
Pyrrolysyl‐tRNA synthetase variants reveal ancestral aminoacylation function

Pyrrolysyl-tRNA synthetase (PylRS) is a class IIc aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase that is related to phenylalanyl-tRNA synthetase (PheRS). Genetic selection provided PylRS variants with a broad range of specificity for diverse non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs). One variant is a specific phenylalanine-incorporating enzyme. Structural models of the PylRSamino acid complex show that the small pocket size and π-interaction play an important role in specific recognition of Phe and the engineered PylRS active site resembles that of Escherichia coli PheRS.
Vpr-Binding Protein Antagonizes p53-Mediated Transcription via Direct Interaction with H3 Tail

HIV-1 Vpr-binding protein (VprBP) has been implicated in the regulation of both DNA replication and cell cycle progression, but its precise role remains unclear. Here we report that VprBP regulates the p53-induced transcription and apoptotic pathway. VprBP is recruited to p53-responsive promoters and suppresses p53 transactivation in the absence of stress stimuli. To maintain target promoters in an inactive state, VprBP stably binds to nucleosomes by recognizing unacetylated H3 tails. Promoter-localized deacetylation of H3 tails is a prerequisite for VprBP to tether and act as a bona fide inhibitor at p53 target genes. VprBP knockdown leads to activation of p53 target genes and causes an increase in DNA damage-induced apoptosis. Moreover, phosphorylation of VprBP at serine 895 impairs the ability of VprBP to bind H3 tails and to repress p53 transactivation. Our results thus reveal a new role for VprBP in regulation of the p53 signaling pathway, as well as molecular mechanisms of cancer development related to VprBP misregulation.
Statistical methods for describing temporal order in longitudinal research

Abstract Background : Although traditional epidemiological statistical methods (e.g., logistic regression) are useful for describing predictive relationships in longitudinal panel studies in which changes in risk factor levels occur before change in the outcome variable, more sophisticated statistical methods must be used when the temporal order between variables is unknown. Methods : Using national survey data, the current study shows how log-linear models and discrete-time survival analysis can be used to test for temporal order. The relationship between marijuana use and friends' use of marijuana is examined to illustrate these methods. Results : Using traditional analytic strategies, it appears that friends' use and marijuana use are predictive of each other. However, valid tests for temporal order reveal that both variables change concurrently, so there is no temporal order between these variables; rather, these variables tend to change concurrently. Conclusion : In many current areas of research, temporal order between theoretically important variables is unknown and traditional analytic strategies will yield misleading results. The fundamental problem with prior approaches is that no estimate of concurrent change is made. Without an estimate of concurrent change, estimates of prediction will be biased. The current study illustrates valid methods that can be used to describe temporal orderings.
LPVM: a step towards multithread PVM

LPVM (lightweight-process PVM) is an experimental PVM version that supports the use of lightweight processes or threads as the basic unit of parallelism. It was designed to study potential performance improvements and implementation issues required by multithread message-passing systems. The current version of LPVM was implemented on SMPs (shared memory processors) using POSIX threads and is designed to be thread-safe. Initial test results on a SUN SMP are compared with the performance of standard PVM. Task spawning is an order of magnitude faster in LPVM, but message-passing between threads using shared memory was found to be slower than standard PVM due to overheads in getting and releasing shared memory locks. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A note on the splitting of the Hilbert class field

Abstract Let K be a finite Galois extension of a number field k and H the Hilbert class field of K. We study whether the group extension defined by the Galois groups of the tower of fields H ⊇ K ⊇ k splits. We first rederive earlier theorems of Wyman and Gold by a new method and show how this method can slightly extend their results. We then give a necessary condition for splitting and show that in many cases this extension cannot split.
Integrated regional assessment and climate change impacts in river basins

Integrated regional assessment of climate change is an interdisciplinary, iterative process that involves scientific, policy, and societal stakeholders. The goal of integrated regional assessment is to promote a better understanding of, and more informed decisions on, how locales and regions con- tribute to and are affected by climate change. The purpose of the paper is to explain what integrated regional assessment is and how it is being used by practitioners. It aims to promote this approach by offering a more comprehensive account of integrated regional assessment than has been presented before. The article uses the integrated assessment of climate change impacts in river basins to provide a concrete regional basis for discussion. Case studies of 3 integrated assessments of river basins are presented to demonstrate the value of this approach. It is argued that when integrated regional assess- ment works, it provides an ideal way of bringing together science, society, and policy to face the chal- lenges of climate change.
Class- and Splice Variant-specific Association of CD98 with Integrin β Cytoplasmic Domains

CD98 is a type II transmembrane protein involved in neutral and basic amino acid transport and in cell fusion events. CD98 was implicated in the function of integrin adhesion receptors by its capacity to reverse suppression of integrin activation by isolated integrin β1A domains. Here we report that CD98 associates with integrin β cytoplasmic domains with a unique integrin class and splice variant specificity. In particular, CD98 interacted with the ubiquitous β1A but not the muscle-specific splice variant, β1D, or leukocyte-specific β7 cytoplasmic domains. The ability of CD98 to associate with integrin cytoplasmic domains correlated with its capacity to reverse suppression of integrin activation. The association of CD98 with integrin β1A cytoplasmic domains may regulate the function and localization of these membrane proteins.
Separation and colorimetric determination of trace quantities of magnesium in high-purity beryllium oxide

Abstract A colorimetric method is described for the determination of trace quantities of magnesium in beryllium metal and its oxide. Beryllium, which is known to interfere with the colorimetric determination of magnesium by the available chromogenic reagents, is separated from the magnesium by forming the beryllium perfluorobutyrate salt at pH 3 to 4, and then extracting it with several portions of diethyl ether. By increasing the number of equilibrations with ether, as much as 1 g of beryllium can be separated from 10 μg of magnesium. The magnesium is then measured spectrophotometrically as the highly coloured complex with Magon, sodium 1-azo-2-hydroxy-3-(2,4-dimethylcarboxanilido) naphthalene-1-(2-hydroxybenzene-5-sulphonate), which exhibits a peak of maximum absorbance at 510 mμ. Over the range of 0.04 to 0.40 μg of magnesium per ml, the absorbance conforms to Beer's law. The method has been applied successfully to the determination of quantities of magnesium as low as 10 μg. The coefficient of variation for samples which contain 200 μg of magnesium is 2 %.
Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the mesentery: a clinical dilemma

Although rare, extra-pulmonary inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are becoming increasingly recognized. While surgical resection is currently an effective and accepted treatment for IMTs, the optimal management of unresectable or residual IMTs remains a clinical dilemma. We present the case of an incompletely resected IMT treated successfully with anti-inflammatory therapy alone, and describe the rationale for this approach.
Residual Strength in Fatigue Based on the Strength-Life Equal Rank Assumption

Equations for the distribution of the residual strength after fatigue are derived. They are compared with experimental data for a few graphite/ epoxy composites. The theory is based on an assumption first introduced by Hahn and Kim, which states that for a given specimen its rank in static strength is equal to its rank in fatigue life, or the strength-life equal rank assumption. The equations contain a free parameter which is more versatile in matching experimental data. It is found that two processes are present during fatigue, one degradates individual specimens and tends to lower the mean strength, the other is the weeding out of weak specimens by fatigue failure which tends to increase the residual mean strength. The change of residual strength can be of weak degradation, strong degradation, or in crease in strength. Among the test data studied, two have weak degrada tion, two have strong degradation and two have increase in strength.