cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Callous-Unemotional Traits Among Adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Associations with Parenting.

This study examined the extent to which positive and negative parenting relates to conduct problems (CP) and callous-unemotional (CU) traits among 172 adolescents (72 % males; Mage = 16.91 years, SD = .67) with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and whether CU traits moderate the link between parenting and CP. Mothers reported on their adolescents’ CP, CU traits, and their own parenting practices. Maternal behaviors were observed during a problem-solving communication task. Parents who engaged in more positive parenting (self-reported and observed) reported their adolescents as having lower levels of CU traits. No effect was found for negative parenting. Moderation analyses indicated that lower levels of positive maternal behavior was only associated with higher CP in the presence of higher levels of CU traits. Negative parenting was positively related to CP regardless of CU traits. Positive parenting, irrespective of measurement approach, uniquely relates to adolescents’ CU traits while both positive and negative parenting relate to CP.
Effects of lasalocid and monensin plus tylosin on serum metabolic hormones and clinical chemistry profiles of beef steers fed a 90% concentrate diet.

Fourteen crossbred beef steers (average initial BW 313 +/- 13.1 kg) fed a 90% concentrate diet (as-fed basis) were used to evaluate effects of ionophores on serum metabolic hormones and clinical chemistry profiles. Treatments were no ionophore (C; four steers), lasalocid (L; 33 mg/kg of diet; five steers), and monensin (33 mg/kg of diet) plus tylosin (11 mg/kg of diet; MT; five steers). All steers were adapted to the 90% concentrate diet, after which treatments were applied and blood was sampled via jugular catheters on d 7, 35, 63, 91, and 119 of the trial at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, and 10 h after feeding. Averaged over sampling days, serum glucose concentrations did not differ (P > .10) among treatments at any sampling time (treatment x sampling time, P .10) among treatments. No major effects of ionophores were noted for serum enzymes or protein fractions. Averaged over sampling times within day (treatment x day interaction, P < .10), both L and MT increased (P < .05) serum Ca and Na concentrations on d 91 and 119 compared with C. Serum inorganic P was increased (P < .10) for L vs MT and for ionophore treatments compared with C (P < .10) on several occasions (treatment x day x sampling time interaction, P < .05). Results suggest that ionophores do not cause dramatic changes in serum metabolic hormones or clinical chemistry profiles; however, monensin and lasalocid altered serum minerals in beef steers fed a high-concentrate diet.
Nuclear Power Safety Goals in Light of the Chernobyl Accident

The recently adopted Nuclear Regulatory Commission safety goals include a proposed plant performance guideline limiting the frequency of large releases of radioactive materials. Analysis here indicates that the proposed plant guideline is potentially far more restrictive than the health objectives and goes well beyond previously established health objectives. The Chernobyl accident, which caused no off-site prompt fatalities, raised concerns that the health objectives do not limit the frequency of accidents sufficiently.
Benign and Malignant Neoplasms of Colon and Rectum: Diagnosis and Management

The diagnosis and basic principles of surgery for tumors of the colon and rectum are described. Results of surgical procedures, postoperative care, and complications are also highlighted.
The Impact of Supply Network Structure on the Financial Performance of the Firm

Supply chain finance (SCF) as a topic of academic interest and professional practice is rather nebulous, in the sense that the financial aspects of the supply chain have far reaching and complex ef...
Virotherapies in Pancreatic Cancer

Oncolytic virotherapy represents a novel therapeutic strategy in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Oncolytic viruses, including naturally occurring or genetically modified viruses, have the potential to selectively replicate in tumor cells and induce apoptosis without harming the surrounding normal tissue, thus representing an innovative and intriguing treatment option against pancreatic cancer. Herein, we will highlight and review the role of oncolytic viral therapy in pancreatic cancer while discussing its limitations and potential alternatives to improve its treatment efficacy against this disease.
Alterations of pH in response to increased dietary protein in cattle are unique to the uterus

This study was undertaken with two objectives: 1) to determine whether the effect of excess dietary protein on intrauterine pH in cattle is specific to the uterus or manifested in other bodily fluids and 2) to determine whether the effect of excess ruminally degradable protein on uterine pH can be ameliorated by substitution with a less-degradable protein source. Thirty-six Holstein cows in early lactation were fed isoenergetic total mixed rations that either 1) met undegradable intake protein (UIP) and degradable intake protein (DIP) requirements (Balanced), 2) met DIP requirements and exceeded UIP requirements by 25% (High UIP), or 3) met UIP requirements and exceeded DIP requirements by 25% (High DIP). After diets had been fed > or = 2 wk, uterine, blood, salivary, and urinary pH and plasma urea nitrogen were determined at estrus (d 0) and d 7. Plasma urea nitrogen (mg/dL) was not different between estrus and d 7 but was significantly affected by diet (Balanced, 16.1 +/- 2.3; High UIP, 19.2 +/- 1.6; High DIP, 22.3 +/- 2.6; P < .05). There was no effect of treatment on the pH of any fluid measured at estrus: intrauterine, blood, salivary, and urinary pH averaged 6.84 +/- .05, 7.39 +/- .01, 8.30 +/- .05, and 8.15 +/- .05, respectively. In contrast, on d 7, uterine pH was significantly lower in both high-protein groups, regardless of protein degradability (Balanced, 7.13 +/- .05; UIP, 6.95 +/- .04; DIP, 6.85 +/- .05; P < .05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Prophylactic Preprocedure Platelet Transfusion Is Associated With Increased Risk of Thrombosis and Mortality.

Objectives We evaluated thrombosis and mortality rates of hospitalized patients receiving prophylactic platelet transfusion prior to an invasive procedure. Methods Patient age and underlying medical condition(s), preprocedure and postprocedure platelet counts, type of procedure, number of platelet products transfused, and any complications were recorded on every prophylactic platelet given prior to an invasive procedure. Results A total of 376 prophylactic transfusion recipients were identified. Nineteen (5%) thrombotic events were identified and 60 (16%) deaths occurred within 30 days of the preprocedure platelet transfusion. Most deaths were due to infection, sepsis, or organ failure, and none were due to bleeding or thrombosis. Conclusions Preprocedure platelet transfusion is associated with an increased risk of thrombosis and 30-day mortality. Whether these findings are due to higher incidences of comorbidities and confounding or to cause and effect is not determinable from these data. This study highlights an association between prophylactic platelet transfusion and thrombosis and poor outcome, including death.
Generation and Detection of Single Mode Lamb Waves Using Laser-Based Ultrasound

Lamb waves have been successfully used for the detection of defects in and on the surfaces of plate-like structures for many years [1–4]. In these applications, the Lamb waves have generally been generated and detected using angled-beam piezoelectric transducers or EMAT transducers. In certain applications where only the lowest order symmetric or antisymmetric mode was needed, laser-based ultrasonic (LBU) techniques have been used for generation and/or detection. The use of an LBU technique is attractive because of the potential for rapid inspection of large areas and because it is noncontact with large stand-off distances. The large stand-off distance is particularly attractive for the inspection of structures with elements that protrude slightly from the surface that would interfere with the movement over the surface of an angled-beam transducer or an EMAT. However, a potential difficulty is that Lamb waves are a family of guided waves that exist in plate-like structures, and a large number of modes of vibration may co-exist in a given plate thickness. An essential element in establishing the feasibility of this technique is to demonstrate that LBU techniques can select and efficiently generate a single Lamb wave mode. The selected mode will ideally have an energy distribution within the plate wall that is optimized for detection of specific defect types. Further, the dispersion characteristics of the waves depend on the specific mode and the operating point on the frequency vs wavenumber dispersion curve. The slope of the curve at the operating point of the mode selected should be nearly constant over the operating bandwidth. This implies that the group velocity is nearly constant and a pulse will maintain its compact shape as it propagates, i.e., it is nondispersive. This is especially important for the inspection of large areas where the pulse might be required to propagate over long path lengths. To obtain efficient Lamb wave generation, the mode and operating point should be selected to have a low mechanical admittance for the combination of in-plane and out-of-plane displacements produced by the thermoelastic source. Further, for an optical detector that is sensitive only to out-of-plane displacements, the mode must have a significant out-of-plane displacement at the selected operating point.
Anatomies of Kinship: Preliminary Network Models for Change and Diversity in the Formal Structure of American Families

How can we simultaneously capture the diversity of family forms without imposing pre-defined restrictions on the meanings of family? Modern family structures are characterized primarily by the diversity of forms across settings–a feature that beguiles standard comparisons relying only on biology or legal household arrangements. Here, we explore using formal network models for roles to characterize families. We build on old models from structural anthropology that expand from simple terminologically based kinship models to fully induced role system models based on shared time use. While this approach requires new data and new thinking, it holds promise as a flexible way to capture the diversity of natural family practices across an arbitrarily wide variety of contexts.
4: Characterization of a novel interferon stimulated gene with antiviral activity

Interferon inducible genes are critical for the initiation of an effective antiviral response and for the clearance of virus from infected cells. These proteins exert their influence on viral replication via a myriad of different mechanisms, potentially influencing every step in the pathogens replicative cycle. Interferon stimulated genes have also been shown to mediate a wide array of cellular processes, including modulation of the immune response, cellular death and proliferation. Several hundred genes have been shown to be upregulated in response to interferon stimulation, however, only a fraction of these genes have been characterized to date. FLJ11286 (FLJ) is 291 aa in length, contains conserved cysteine residues and has homologues across the vertebrate taxon. We show that FLJ is upregulated in response to stimulation with type-I, II and III interferons in both a time and dose-dependent manner, and that disruption of interferon signaling through siRNA mediated knockdown of Interferon regulatory factor 9 results in decreased induction of FLJ after interferon treatment. Furthermore, we demonstrate that siRNA mediated knockdown of FLJ results in increased sensitivity of A549 cells to infection with Encephalomyocarditis virus. Overexpression of FLJ results in a corresponding decrease in viral titers. Here we demonstrate for the first time that FLJ is an interferon-stimulated gene with antiviral activity.
Synthetic seeds in forest trees

Artificial seed consists of somatic embryos surrounded by a protective coating. The coating around the somatic embryo provides the necessary protection during storage, handling and mechanical planting. The artificial seed may contain nutrients to provide the energy required for germination which is normally supplied by endosperm or female gametophyte tissue. In this case either a mechanical barrier or antimicrobial compounds are needed in the seed to prevent contamination by microorganisms. Hormones may also be included to aid development during germination.
Male competition drives song divergence along an ecological gradient in an avian ring species

Sexual selection operates via female choice and male competition, which can act independently, in concert, or in opposition. Female choice is typically considered the stronger selective force, but how these two processes interact to shape phenotypic divergence is poorly understood. I tested the hypothesis that variation in sexual selection in different habitats drives song divergence in the greenish warbler ring species. I evaluated the strength, direction, and targets of female choice and male competition in three populations spanning 2400 km of latitude. Average song length increased with latitude, concomitant with a decline in population density. Within populations, males sang longer songs when females were fertile and shorter songs during territory establishment. Females consistently preferred males with longer songs and larger song repertoires. By contrast, playback experiments showed that males used short songs in territory defense. Songs were shortest at high densities, and in the highest density population only, song traits preferred by females correlated with male territoriality. Stronger male competition at high population densities likely constrains maximum song length, whereas weaker competition at low densities allows expression of female choice for long songs. Interactions between male competition and ecology may be a crucial but oft-overlooked component of phenotypic divergence and speciation.
On plane internal waves: their amplification, and potential to break in a rotating stratified quiescent fluid

ABSTRACTIn this article, we assess the potential of plane internal waves to break in the interior of a rotating but otherwise quiescent stratified fluid. We show that wave energy density of a monochromatic wave is uniform in space and time, and calculate two heuristic stability measures: the isopycnal steepness (for overturning instability) and the Froude number (for shear instability) as functions of the wave energy density and phase to determine the regions where fast perturbation growth and subsequent wave breaking are likely to occur. For purely inertial waves, the Froude number field is uniform, and wave breaking is equally probable at any point. For non-inertial waves the locations of the minimal convective and shear stability always coincide, but the onset of shear instability almost always occurs at lower energy densities than the onset of overturning for all wave frequencies. In a rotating fluid, the separation between the two critical energy densities is most pronounced at low frequencies. At hi...
Light induced non-volatile switching of superconductivity in single layer FeSe on SrTiO3 substrate.

The capability of controlling superconductivity by light is highly desirable for active quantum device applications. Since superconductors rarely exhibit strong photoresponses, and optically sensitive materials are often not superconducting, efficient coupling between these two characters can be very challenging in a single material. Here we show that, in FeSe/SrTiO3 heterostructures, the superconducting transition temperature in FeSe monolayer can be effectively raised by the interband photoexcitations in the SrTiO3 substrate. Attributed to a light induced metastable polar distortion uniquely enabled by the FeSe/SrTiO3 interface, this effect only requires a less than 50 µW cm−2 continuous-wave light field. The fast optical generation of superconducting zero resistance state is non-volatile but can be rapidly reversed by applying voltage pulses to the back of SrTiO3 substrate. The capability of switching FeSe repeatedly and reliably between normal and superconducting states demonstrate the great potential of making energy-efficient quantum optoelectronics at designed correlated interfaces. How photoexcitations influence superconductivity at the FeSe/SrTiO3 interface remains elusive. Here, the authors report fast optical generation of a metastable superconducting state and its reversal by voltage pulses at the FeSe monolayer/SrTiO3 interface.
Abstract WP144: Overexpression of tPA in the Spinal Cord Promotes Corticospinal Axonal Remodeling and Motor Behavioral Recovery in Mice After Stroke

Our previous studies demonstrated that axonal remodeling of the corticospinal tract (CST) in the spinal cord contributes to neurological recovery after stroke in rodents. In the present study, we d...
The Effects of Multimodal Communication Frequency, Geographic Distance, and Coresidence on Parent-Child Relationship Quality During Emerging Adulthood

The present study examined the role of three interrelated factors—multimodal communication frequency, geographic distance, and coresidence—in relation to emerging adult college students’ perception...
Connecting iron acquisition and biofilm formation in the ESKAPE pathogens as a strategy for combatting antibiotic resistance

The rise of antibiotic resistant bacteria has become a problem of global concern. Of particular interest are the ESKAPE pathogens, species with high rates of multi-drug resistant infections. Novel antibiotic mechanisms of action are necessary to compliment traditional therapeutics. Recent research has focused on targeting virulence factors as a method of combatting infection without creating selective pressure for resistance or damaging the host commensal microbiome. Some investigations into one such virulence behavior, iron acquisition, have displayed additional effects on another virulence behavior, biofilm formation. The use of exogenous iron-chelators, gallium as an iron mimic, and inhibition of siderophore-mediated iron acquisition are all strategies for disturbing iron-homeostasis that have implicated effects on biofilms. However, the exact nature of this connection remains ambiguous. Herein we summarize these findings and identify opportunities for further investigation.
Where are the parallel algorithms

Four paradigms that can be useful in developing parallel algorithms are discussed. These include computational complexity analysis, changing the order of computation, asynchronous computation, and divide and conquer. Each is illustrated with an example from scientific computation, and it is shown that computational complexity must be used with great care or an inefficient algorithm may be selected.
DNR patterns in cancer patients (pts) 16 years after the Patient Self Determination Act (PSDA)

6582 Background: In 1991, the PSDA required institutions receiving federal funding to inform pts about the right to refuse life prolonging treatments such as CPR. Studies conducted around 1991 sugg...
The association of nativity/length of residence and cardiovascular disease risk factors in the United States

Abstract Differences by nativity status for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors have been previously reported. Recent research has focused on understanding how other acculturation factors, such as length of residence, affect health behaviors and outcomes. This study examines the association between CVD risk factors and nativity/length of US residence. Using cross-sectional data from 15,965 adults in the 2011–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (analyzed in 2018), prevalence ratios and predicted marginals from logistic regression models are used to estimate associations of CVD risk factors (i.e., hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, overweight/obesity and smoking) with nativity/length of residence (
Improving Hurricane Analyses and Predictions with TCI, IFEX Field Campaign Observations, and CIMSS AMVs Using the Advanced Hybrid Data Assimilation System for HWRF. Part II: Observation Impacts on the Analysis and Prediction of Patricia (2015)

AbstractDiverse observations, such as the High Definition Sounding System (HDSS) dropsonde observations from the Tropical Cyclone Intensity (TCI) program, the Tail Doppler Radar (TDR), Stepped Freq...
Remodeling of Chemotaxis is a Cornerstone of Bacterial Swarming

Many bacteria use flagella-driven motility to swarm or move collectively over a surface terrain. Bacterial adaptations for swarming can include cell elongation, hyperflagellation, recruitment of special stator proteins and surfactant secretion, among others. We recently demonstrated another swarming adaptation in Escherichia coli, wherein the chemotaxis pathway is remodeled to increase run durations (decrease tumble bias), with running speeds increased as well. We show here that the modification of motility parameters during swarming is not unique to E. coli, but shared by a diverse group of bacteria we examined Proteus mirabilis, Serratia marcescens, Salmonella enterica, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, suggesting that altering the chemosensory physiology is a cornerstone of swarming.
State of the Art in Radio Tracking

The state of the radio tracking art for space vehicles is reviewed with particular emphasis placed upon accuracy and near-instantaneous data output. Special attention is given to interferometry techniques, which allow very precise range measurements to be made that are practically independent of the distance to the vehicle.
Case Report of Akathisia in a Patient With Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma on Nivolumab.

Abstract Background Nivolumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor with indications for multiple malignancies. New reports of adverse events continue to emerge, including one Case report of nivolumab-associated akathisia. We describe a second case of likely nivolumab-induced akathisia. Case A 68-year-old female with metastatic renal cell carcinoma presented with restlessness that became acutely debilitating approximately fourth months after initiating treatment with nivolumab. Psychiatric evaluation revealed no psychiatric history and no current mood, anxiety, or psychotic symptoms. She had intermittently taken prochlorperazine as needed for nausea. An extensive medical workup was unrevealing for any cause of her symptoms. The clinical picture progressed to involve parkinsonian features in addition to the restlessness. Unfortunately all of the patient’s symptoms were refractory to typical treatments including benzodiazepines, propranolol, iron supplementation, carbidopa-levodopa, and ropinirole. After a four-week hospitalization with minimal improvement, she discharged home on hospice and passed away a month later. Discussion There is one prior Case report of nivolumab-induced debilitating akathisia. As with our case, that patient had severe akathisia unresponsive to numerous treatments. In both cases, no medication trial resulted in significant improvement and both patients died soon after developing akathisia. Conclusion The side effect profile of immune checkpoint inhibitors remains incompletely characterized. This is the second reported Case of treatment-resistant akathisia likely associated with nivolumab use and provides further context for future investigations into checkpoint inhibitor-induced neurotoxicities.
Silenced Partners: Language Learning and the Role of Bilingual Peers in High School

BackgroundIn schools, a major obstacle to drawing on emergent bilingual students’ knowledge and skills in their first language is a widespread lack of awareness about language use among adolescent ...
Formulation development of itraconazole PEGylated nano-lipid carriers for pulmonary aspergillosis using hot-melt extrusion technology.

Abstract Pulmonary delivery is a promising alternative for the oral treatment of pulmonary aspergillosis. This study aimed to develop continuous and scalable itraconazole PEGylated nano-lipid carriers (ITZ-PEG-NLC) for inhalation delivery. The feasibility of preparing NLCs utilizing hot-melt extrusion (HME) coupled with probe sonication was investigated. The process parameters for HME and sonication were varied to optimize the formulation. ITZ-PEG-NLC (particle size, 101.20 ± 1.69 nm; polydispersity index, 0.26 ± 0.01) was successfully formulated. The drug entrapment efficiency of ITZ-PEG-NLC was 97.28 ± 0.50%. Transmission electron microscopy was used to characterize the shape of the particles. The developed formulations were evaluated for their aerodynamic properties for pulmonary delivery. The lung deposition of ITZ-PEG-NLC was determined using an Anderson Cascade Impactor and Philips Respironics Sami the Seal Nebulizer Compressor. In vitro cytotoxicity studies were performed using A549 cells. A burst-release pattern was observed in ITZ-PEG-NLC with a drug release of 41.74 ± 1.49% in 60 min. The in vitro aerosolization of the ITZ-PEG-NLC formulation showed a mass median aerodynamic diameter of 3.51 ± 0.28 μm and a geometric standard deviation of 2.44 ± 0.49. These findings indicate that HME technology could be used for the production of continuous scalable ITZ-PEG-NLC.
A NIR fluorescent smart probe for imaging tumor hypoxia.

Background Tumor hypoxia is a characteristic of paramount importance due to low oxygenation levels in tissue negatively correlating with resistance to traditional therapies. The ability to noninvasively identify such could provide for personalized treatment(s) and enhance survival rates. Accordingly, we recently developed an NIR fluorescent hypoxia-sensitive smart probe (NO2 -Rosol) for identifying hypoxia via selectively imaging nitroreductase (NTR) activity, which could correlate to oxygen deprivation levels in cells, thereby serving as a proxy. We demonstrated proof of concept by subjecting a glioblastoma (GBM) cell line to extreme stress by evaluating such under radiobiological hypoxic (pO2 ≤ ~0.5%) conditions, which is a far cry from representative levels for hypoxia for brain glioma (pO2 = ~1.7%) which fluctuate little from physiological hypoxic (pO2 = 1.0-3.0%) conditions. Aim We aimed to evaluate the robustness, suitability, and feasibility of NO2 -Rosol for imaging hypoxia in vitro and in vivo via assessing NTR activity in diverse GBM models under relevant oxygenation levels (pO2 = 2.0%) within physiological hypoxic conditions that mimic oxygenation levels in GBM tumor tissue in the brain. Methods We evaluated multiple GBM cell lines to determine their relative sensitivity to oxygenation levels via measuring carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) levels, which is a surrogate marker for indirectly identifying hypoxia by reporting on oxygen deprivation levels and upregulated NTR activity. We evaluated for hypoxia via measuring NTR activity when employing NO2 -Rosol in in vitro and tumor hypoxia imaging studies in vivo. Results The GBM39 cell line demonstrated the highest CAIX expression under hypoxic conditions representing that of GBM in the brain. NO2 -Rosol displayed an 8-fold fluorescence enhancement when evaluated in GBM39 cells (pO2 = 2.0%), thereby establishing its robustness and suitability for imaging hypoxia under relevant physiological conditions. We demonstrated the feasibility of NO2 -Rosol to afford tumor hypoxia imaging in vivo via it demonstrating a tumor-to-background of 5 upon (i) diffusion throughout, (ii) bioreductive activation by NTR activity in, and (iii) retention within, GBM39 tumor tissue. Conclusion We established the robustness, suitability, and feasibility of NO2 -Rosol for imaging hypoxia under relevant oxygenation levels in vitro and in vivo via assessing NTR activity in GBM39 models.
Automated method for sulfate determination in lake water

An automated turbidimetric method is presented for the determination of sulfate in lake water. Turbidity of samples filtered with 0.45 μm HA Millipore filters is measured at 420 mμm with a Technicon AutoAnalyzer after sulfate is reacted with BaCl 2 in HCl reagent. A NH 4 OH-EDTA rinse prevents coating of the BaSO 4 precipitate on the flowcell walls, glass coils, and plastic tubing of the manifold system, eliminating excessive baseline drift. There are no interference effects of seven ions most likely to occur in lake water. Recovery in tests and replicate analyses shows an accuracy better than ′2 percent and a precision of ′2 percent. The method is used to determine 5 to 40 ppm sulfate. Results are compared with those obtained from other automated turbidimetric methods.
Fault-tolerance and load management in a distributed stream processing system

Advances in monitoring technology (e.g., sensors) and an increased demand for online information processing have given rise to a new class of applications that require continuous, low-latency processing of large-volume data streams. These "stream processing applications" arise in many areas such as sensor-based environment monitoring, financial services, network monitoring, and military applications. Because traditional database management systems are ill-suited for high-volume, low-latency stream processing, new systems, called stream processing engines (SPEs), have been developed. Furthermore, because stream processing applications are inherently distributed, and because distribution can improve performance and scalability, researchers have also proposed and developed distributed SPEs. In this dissertation, we address two challenges faced by a distributed SPE: (1) fault-tolerant operation in the face of node failures, network failures, and network partitions, and (2) federated load management. For fault-tolerance, we present a replication-based scheme, called Delay, Process, and Correct (DPC), that masks most node and network failures. When network partitions occur, DPC addresses the traditional availability-consistency trade-off by maintaining, when possible, a desired availability specified by the application or user, but eventually also delivering the correct results. While maintaining the desired availability bounds, DPC also strives to minimize the number of inaccurate results that must later be corrected. In contrast to previous proposals for fault tolerance; in SPEs, DPC simultaneously supports a variety of applications that differ in their preferred trade-off between availability and consistency. For load management, we present a Bounded-Price Mechanism (BPM) that enables autonomous participants to collaboratively handle their load without individually owning the resources necessary for peak operation. BPM is based on contracts that participants negotiate offline. At runtime, participants move load only to partners with whom they have a contract and pay each other the contracted price. We show that BPM provides incentives that foster participation and leads to good system-wide load distribution. In contrast to earlier proposals based on computational economics, BPM is lightweight, enables participants to develop and exploit preferential relationships, and provides stability and predictability. Although motivated by stream processing, BPM is general and can be applied to any federated system. We have implemented both schemes in the Borealis distributed stream processing engine. They will be available with the next release of the system. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)
Bescherming biedt Afrikaanse landbouw nieuwe kans

Niek Koning advocates a new interpretation of the problems Africa faces today which focuses on the interaction between the evolution of the world economy and the development of Africa. The world economy has resulted in an agricultural depression that also drags along the rest of society. In order to solve this problem, market-oriented reforms have to be accompanied by import duties on foreign agricultural products.
Extraction of DNA from anostracan cysts (Crustacea, Branchiopoda) for use in RAPD-PCR analyses

Like many diapausing crustaceans, anostracans (Crustacea, Branchiopoda) produce encysted embryos capable of surviving the long periods of desiccation typical of their environments. These cysts are far more abundant and are easier to collect than adults and for some applications they are superior to adults as subjects for genetic analysis. Due to the lack of minimal tissue size requirements, PCR-based analysis is the best alternative for genetic study of cysts. We describe a method for the fast extraction of DNA from cysts, yielding template for RAPD-PCR analysis.
Determinantal Loci and Enumerative Combinatorics of Young Tableaux

Publisher Summary This chapter describes several formulae for enumerating certain types of objects. These objects may be certain tabular arrangements of integers called Young tableaux, or they may be certain types of monomials. The chapter highlights bitableaux and multitableaux of higher width. The chapter discusses bitableaux and their relation with determinantal loci. The said enumerative formulae may very well be described as examples of what may be called determinantal polynomials in binomial coefficients. The chapter describes Young tableaux and determinal polynomials in binomial coefficients.
Non-cooperative uplink power control in cellular radio systems

This paper presents uplink power control in cellular radio systems from an economic point of view. A utility function is defined for each mobile user, which reflects the user's preference regarding the carrier-to-interference ratio (CIR) and the transmitter power. We observe that, on one hand, mobile users prefer to transmit at a lower power for a fixed CIR. On the other hand, for a given transmitter power, users prefer to obtain a better CIR. Based on this observation, we make two fundamental assumptions about the utility function. We formulate the uplink power control problem as a non-cooperative N-person game. Under the two assumptions that we make about the utility function, there exists a Nash equilibrium. To show the generality of the framework, we study one special case by defining the utility as a linear function. This model encompasses many of the widely studied power control problems. A more general case is also studied by defining utility as an exponential function. This paper establishes a general economic-based framework for studying resource management in wireless networks and points out new research directions.
Introduction: Media and Utopia

The conclusion of the Cold War era led to triumphal predictions about the end of history. In fact, the moment marked an end to mass utopias, that is, to the widespread belief in collective emancipation fostered by technologies of the modern state. To reflect on utopia as both artifact and genre is one way to understand how it has changed, and for what reasons. Today the utopian projects of the past are widely questioned; meanwhile social and political debates are crisis-driven rather than shaped by longer-term visions. But utopias continue to emerge—witness the many expressions of hope and struggle, individual and collective, often lacking what movements are reckoned by: leaders, blueprints, manifestos, and cadre. Their performative and material practices of communication, and modes of mediation more broadly, are increasingly prominent, and increasingly difficult to separate from the aspirations expressed. As grand utopian narratives fragment, Rajagopal asks, can attention to their forms of mediation clarify the different kinds of futures being imagined today? Given the idealism inherent in most utopian endeavors, can questions about media and mediation help improve understandings of earlier visions of the future and so cast light on the way utopias may be redrawn for present purposes? Media may not determine our situation, contra Friedrich Kittler, but they may help illuminate it.
Computers in the Intensive Care Unit: Promises Yet to Be Fulfilled

Computers, whether disguised as microprocessor-controlled bedside devices or obvious as electronic patient charts, are proliferating in intensive care units. The history of the relationship between computers and intensive care units suggests that their joint development has been characterized by customization of a device or a program to automate each specific task. Failure to develop standard definitions of clinical data, standards for their interpretation, or a comprehensive model of the process of critical care retards development of computer systems beyond device-dedicated microprocessors. An agenda that gives priority to systematic examination of definitions, descriptions, and processes of critical care over additional hardware and software development is recommended.
The proinflammatory role of HECTD2 in innate immunity and experimental lung injury

Invading pathogens may trigger overactivation of the innate immune system, which results in the release of large amounts of proinflammatory cytokines (cytokine storm) and leads to the development of pulmonary edema, multiorgan failure, and shock. PIAS1 is a multifunctional and potent anti-inflammatory protein that negatively regulates several key inflammatory pathways such as Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). We discovered a ubiquitin E3 ligase, HECTD2, which ubiquitinated and mediated the degradation of PIAS1, thus increasing inflammation in an experimental pneumonia model. We found that GSK3β phosphorylation of PIAS1 provided a phosphodegron for HECTD2 targeting. We also identified a mislocalized HECTD2 polymorphism, HECTD2(A19P), that was present in 8.5% of the population and functioned to reduce inflammation. This polymorphism prevented HECTD2/PIAS1 nuclear interaction, thus preventing PIAS1 degradation. The HECTD2(A19P) polymorphism was also protective toward acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We then developed a small-molecule inhibitor, BC-1382, that targeted HECTD2 and attenuated lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- and Pseudomonas aeruginosa-induced lung inflammation. These studies describe an unreported innate immune pathway and suggest that mutation or antagonism of the E3 ligase HECTD2 results in reduced severity of lung inflammation by selectively modulating the abundance of the anti-inflammatory protein PIAS1.
Techniques for identifying predators of goose nests

Abstract We used cameras and artificial eggs to identify nest predators of dusky Canada goose Branta canadensis occidentalis nests during 1997–2000. Cameras were set up at 195 occupied goose nests and 60 artificial nests. We placed wooden eggs and domestic goose eggs that were emptied and then filled with wax or foam in an additional 263 natural goose nests to identify predators from marks in the artificial eggs. All techniques had limitations, but each correctly identified predators and estimated their relative importance. Nests with cameras had higher rates of abandonment than natural nests, especially during laying. Abandonment rates were reduced by deploying artificial eggs late in laying and reducing time at nests. Predation rates for nests with cameras were slightly lower than for nests without cameras. Wax-filled artificial eggs caused mortality of embryos in natural nests, but were better for identifying predator marks at artificial nests. Use of foam-filled artificial eggs in natural nests was th...
Mexican medical border towns: A case study of Algodones, Baja California

Abstract Health insurance in the United States has become increasingly expensive and unavailable to large numbers of Americans. As a result, many in the U.S. rely on less expensive foreign sources of pharmaceuticals and health services, especially Canada and Mexico. Mexico's proximity to large population centers and communities of elderly winter visitors has resulted in thriving tourist‐oriented medical retailing in several Mexican border communities. This article explores this form of cross‐border retailing by illustrating the spatial distribution of tourist pharmacies across the Sonora‐Arizona border and into adjacent areas of Baja California. We also show the typical distribution of tourist pharmacies within Mexican border communities that draw large numbers of American visitors. To elaborate on the broader spectrum of cross‐border health care retailing, we present a case study of Los Algodones, Baja California, a community that has transformed itself into a hub of health services provision and pharmac...
Current to Frequency Converter for Digitization of Millisecond Beam Signals

Beam-intensity monitoring in the Fermilab Neutrino Area requires sensitive and fast processing for beam signals (with four or five decade amplitude variations for a typcial detector) which are digitized with a current-to-frequency converter (IFC). The converter digitizes the input charge at a 1 pC/Hz rate with a processing limit at 10 MHz for a 10 nC charge input or a 10 ?A current input. For a 1 ms beam pulse, the IFC can generate a 1 to 10,000 count output. The digitizer is two to three decades more sensitive than the fastest commercial V to F converters and the upper frequency limit is two or three decades higher than the present laboratory built IFC's. The resolution over the 0 to 50°C temperature range and the linearity from 1 Hz to 1 MHz is held to ± 1% with a linearity deviation of + 5% at 10 MHz.
Compressive Fatigue of a Plasma Sprayed Zr02-8 wt%Y203 and Zr02-10wt%NiCrAlCoY TTBC

Design of TTBC`s for use in diesel engines requires definition of the compressive fatigue strength of TTBC`s for high numbers of applied load cycles. Here, high cycle (> 10{sup 6} cycles) fatigue (HCF) behavior of thick thermal barrier coatings (TTBC`s) was examined for applied stresses near the compressive strength of the material. Test data were obtained on four coating systems: two base materials in the unsealed and CrO{sub 2} dip sealed conditions. Free standing tubular specimens were evaluated. The data show that compressive fatigue limits exist for the four coating systems at room temperature (RT) and sealing with CrO{sub 2} improves RT fatigue life. Test results also show the ratio of the peak cyclic stress, at 10{sup 5} cycles, to ultimate compressive strength (UCS) of the Yttria Stabilized Zirconia (YSZ) tubular specimens approaches 0.90 at R = 0.6 (R = minimum/maximum compressive stress). Residual UCS increases were observed after fatigue run-outs at elevated temperatures (5 at 700 C and 1 at 400 C) for both YSZ and the cermet. Ratchetting with cyclic hardening was observed during fatigue with deformation occurring primarily in the initial portion of the high cycle fatigue life of the specimens.
Leaking of Fillers in Dental Composites

The leakage of filler elements from four composites after storage in water was investigated. The results showed that all fillers leaked Si, and that the micro-filled composite and the Ba- and Sr-containing glass composites leaked more Si than did the quartz-containing material. The leakage from the different fillers was explained by hydroxy-ion and stress-corrosion attacks.
ULTRASONOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF GASTROINTESTINAL DISEASES IN SMALL ANIMALS

Sonographic findings of 18 dogs and four cats with gastrointestinal (GI) diseases were reviewed. Wall thickness, wall layer identification, wall symmetry, extension of the lesion, nature of the GI contents, motility, and regional and/or systemic involvement were recorded for each animal. Ultrasonographic appearance of gastrointestinal neoplasms, gastrointestinal obstruction, ileus, intussusception, inflammatory GI diseases, and congenital disorders are discussed.
A seascape approach to investigating fish spillover across a marine protected area boundary in Hawai'i

Abstract Marine protected areas (MPAs) can benefit fisheries through export of pelagic eggs and larvae and the net emigration of adults and juveniles (spillover). Spillover was investigated for a marine protected area on the north shore of Oahu, Hawai‘i utilizing a seascape approach. This study incorporated habitat variables and underwater visual surveys of fishes and benthos measured at two distinct scales (125 m 2 and 1000 m 2 ) inside and outside the protected area at varying distance from the boundary. The relationship between fish biomass from fine-scale surveys and key habitat variables was found to account for a large portion of the variability for both resource (targeted) fish species (15%) and non-resource fish (28%). The remaining variation in resource fish biomass was significantly correlated with distance from the MPA boundary showing a decreasing gradient from inside to outside ( r 2 = 0.46, p = 0.001), indicating fish spillover at a local scale ( p = 0.45). The evidence of spillover based on the fine-scale surveys was corroborated by results from broad-scale surveys, which also showed a significant relationship ( r 2 = 0.19, p
Spintronics and exchange engineering in coupled quantum dots

By combining advanced device modeling with computational physics, microscopic changes in quantum many-body interactions of quantum dots are described as a function of macroscopic device parameters without a priori assumption on the confining potential. In planar coupled quantum dot structures, spin control can be achieved by modulating exchange interaction with an external gate as in conventional field effect transistors. These new features, coupled with recent advances in quantum dot physics constitute the basic ingredients for a solid state technology for quantum information processing.
Electronic and chemical structure of metal-silicon interfaces

This paper reviews our current understanding of the near-noble metal silicides and the interfaces formed with Si(100). Using X-ray photoemission spectroscopy, we compare the chemical composition and electronic structure of the room temperature metal-silicon and reacted silicide-silicon interfaces. The relationship between the interfacial chemistry and the Schottky barrier heights for this class of metals on silicon is explored.
Aeroelastic Response and Protection of Space Shuttle External Tank Cable Trays

Sections of the Space Shuttle External Tank Liquid Oxygen (LO2) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) cable trays are shielded from potentially damaging airloads with foam Protuberance Aerodynamic Load (PAL) Ramps. Flight standard design LO2 and LH2 cable tray sections were tested with and without PAL Ramp models in the United States Air Force Arnold Engineering Development Center s (AEDC) 16T transonic wind tunnel to obtain experimental data on the aeroelastic stability and response characteristics of the trays and as part of the larger effort to determine whether the PAL ramps can be safely modified or removed. Computational Fluid Dynamic simulations of the full-stack shuttle launch configuration were used to investigate the flow characeristics around and under the cable trays without the protective PAL ramps and to define maximum crossflow Mach numbers and dynamic pressures experienced during launch. These crossflow conditions were used to establish wind tunnel test conditions which also included conservative margins. For all of the conditions and configurations tested, no aeroelastic instabilities or unacceptable dynamic response levels were encountered and no visible structural damage was experienced by any of the tested cable tray sections. Based upon this aeroelastic characterization test, three potentially acceptable alternatives are available for the LO2 cable tray PAL Ramps: Mini-Ramps, Tray Fences, or No Ramps. All configurations were tested to maximum conditions, except the LH2 trays at -15 deg. crossflow angle. This exception is the only caveat preventing the proposal of acceptable alternative configurations for the LH2 trays as well. Structural assessment of all tray loads and tray response measurements from launches following the Shuttle Return To Flight with the existing PAL Ramps will determine the acceptability of these PAL Ramp alternatives.