cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Self-Assembly of a Dentinogenic Peptide Hydrogel.

Current standard of care for treating infected dental pulp, root canal therapy, retains the physical properties of the tooth to a large extent, but does not aim to rejuvenate the pulp tissue. Tissue-engineered acellular biomimetic hydrogels have great potential to facilitate the regeneration of the tissue through the recruitment of autologous stem cells. We propose the use of a dentinogenic peptide that self-assembles into β-sheet-based nanofibers that constitute a biodegradable and injectable hydrogel for support of dental pulp stem cells. The peptide backbone contains a β-sheet-forming segment and a matrix extracellular phosphoglycoprotein mimic sequence at the C-terminus. The high epitope presentation of the functional moiety in the self-assembled nanofibers may enable recapitulation of a functional niche for the survival and proliferation of autologous cells. We elucidated the hierarchical self-assembly of the peptide through biophysical techniques, including scanning electron microscopy and atomic fo...
Introduction to the Thematic Minireview Series: DNA double-strand break repair and pathway choice

Environmental agents and reactive metabolites induce myriad chromosomal lesions that challenge the integrity of our genome. In particular, the DNA double-strand break (DSB) has the highest potential to cause the types of chromosome aberrations and rearrangements found in transformed and cancer cells. Several conserved pathways of DSB repair exist in eukaryotes, and these have been the subject of intense studies in recent years. In this Thematic Minireview Series, four leading research groups review recent progress in deciphering DSB repair mechanisms and the intricate regulatory network that helps determine the preferential engagement of one pathway over others.
Failure to detect M. avium subspecies paratuberculosis in Johne’s disease using a proprietary fluorescent in situ hybridization assay

Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) causes Johne’s disease in ruminants. The “gold standard” of MAP detection is by culture, DNA sequencing possibly supplemented by identification of Ziehl–Neelsen positive mycobacteria. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a proprietary (Affymetrix™ RNA view®) fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) assay for MAP RNA. Intestine from a steer with documented Johne’s disease was assayed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Probes were custom designed for MAP and bovine β-actin (as the eukaryotic housekeeping gene) from published genomes. We attempt to prevent false positive signal in the “no-probe” control, by modifying wash solutions, using recommended hydrochloric acid titration and different fluorescent filters (TritC for Texas Red and “Hope” for Cy-5). Repetitively, false positive signal was observed in our “no probe” negative control. Attempts to correct this according to the manufacturers suggestions, and with multiple derivative techniques have been unsuccessful. It is concluded that when performed according to manufactures instruction and with multiple variations on the manufactures recommended suggestions to correct for false positive signal, that the Affymetrix™ RNA view® cannot be used to detect MAP in pre-frozen intestine of cattle with Johne’s disease.
“First” matters: A qualitative examination of a strategy for controlling the agenda when answering questions in the 2016 U.S. republican primary election debates

ABSTRACTIn the context of the 2016 U.S. Republican primary election debates, the qualitative method of Conversation Analysis is used to describe a discourse/rhetorical strategy candidates use to co...
Caring for Muslim Refugees

Migration, even to a safe destination, can be traumatic. Forced migration, especially following an armed conflict, can have a wide range of psychosocial and other negative health consequences.
The physical Immortalist and the Guru who Died: The Relationship between Leonard Orr – Originator of Rebirthing – and His Immortal Guru Haidakhan Babaji

Most of the Western world’s first introduction to Babaji was through Paramahansa Yogananda’s classic Autobiography of a Yogi, where Babaji is lovingly described as the satguru who can bestow all gifts on anyone who calls his name sincerely. Those who did call his name sincerely included Leonard Orr, the originator of rebirthing therapeutic work, and of the practice known as physical immortality. According to Orr, Haidakhan Babaji was an immortal being who had lived for over 9000 years. In the late 1970s and early 1980s Orr revisioned his emerging therapeutic work, suggesting that Haidakhan Babaji should become the satguru (supreme teacher) for all Westerners who wish to remain immortal in their current physical bodies. Orr was at the forefront of a new therapy – with a growing international presence garnering interest and acclaim within the New Age movement. But on 15 February 1984 the inconceivable happened: the immortal Haidakhan Babaji died of a heart attack. This article examines how meaning was reframed and recreated subsequent to the death of the guru, to whom all the freedoms that physical immortality could provide were ascribed. Fallout for Orr included not only the grief of losing his beloved teacher, but also the possibility of losing the bedrock of the belief system which he had already publicly espoused and internationally promoted.
BCR-ABL1-like B-Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia/Lymphoma: A Comprehensive Review.

Context.— In the 2016 update of the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of hematopoietic neoplasms, BCR-ABL1–like B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (B-ALL) is added as a new provis...
Smoking cessation group attendance in a substance use disorder clinic: a look at contingency management and other factors to maximize engagement

Contingency management (CM) has emerged as an intervention that can increase smoking quit rates; however, CM has only been tested for reinforcing abstinence for nicotine. This quality improvement p...
A Study of BEOL Processed Hf 0.5 Zr 0.5 O 2 -based Ferroelectric Capacitors and Their Potential for Automotive Applications

This work presents the results of our study of Back-End-of-Line (BEOL)-processed Hf 0.5 Zr 0.5 O 2 (HZO)-based Metal-Ferroelectric-Metal (MFM) capacitors fabricated at temperatures never exceeding 400 0C, and over a wide range of areas (10˗2 to 103 µm2). These devices exhibit very tight distributions throughout the 12-in wafers that we measured, as well as neglectable size dependence. This work also presents our current understanding of the wake-up issue, and suggestion for possible ways of device engineering. In addition, the potential for automotive applications is demonstrated based on the results of a set of MFM devices systematically measured and analyzed at elevated temperatures (150-427 0C).
(Invited) Activation and Deactivation in Ultra-Highly Doped n-Type Epitaxy for nMOS Applications

Since ultra-highly doped, highly tensile strained Si:P epitaxy was reported about 10 years ago, it quickly replaced Si:CP and become key processes for advanced nodes. With greater than 3E21 doping level, these films exhibit significant tensile stress and low resistivity, both enhanced the nMOS performance. As the technology scales, contact resistance is becoming a major factor for device performance, even higher activation level is desired. In this paper, the mechanisms for high doping level and tensile strain are briefly reviewed and discussed. Despite epitaxially grown, these films showed similar thermal equilibrium behavior as implant-annealed samples and could be predicted with well established model. Diffusion and strain analysis shed some lights on the processes involved in the carrier activation and deactivation. Formation of group V - vacancy complex, V4V, or Si3P4-like, structure is key to understand the behavior, especially dopant diffusion and interaction with vacancy. Unlike Si:As, Si:P showed different behavior with different anneal and deposition approaches that might indicating a much more complicate deactivation path. And strong surface influence of P diffusion might present a challenge for contact engineering.
Small molecule modulation of the p75 neurotrophin receptor suppresses age- and genotype-associated neurodegeneration in HIV gp120 transgenic mice.

Abstract The persistence of HIV in the central nervous system leads to cognitive deficits in up to 50% of people living with HIV even with systemic suppression by antiretroviral treatment. The interaction of chronic inflammation with age-associated degeneration places these individuals at increased risk of accelerated aging and other neurodegenerative diseases and no treatments are available that effectively halt these processes. The adverse effects of aging and inflammation may be mediated, in part, by an increase in the expression of the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) which shifts the balance of neurotrophin signaling toward less protective pathways. To determine if modulation of p75NTR could modify the disease process, we treated HIV gp120 transgenic mice with a small molecule ligand designed to engage p75NTR and downregulate degenerative signaling. Daily treatment with 50 mg/kg LM11A-31 for 4 months suppressed age- and genotype-dependent activation of microglia, increased microtubule associated protein-2 (MAP-2), reduced dendritic varicosities and slowed the loss of parvalbumin immunoreactive neurons in the hippocampus. An age related accumulation of microtubule associated protein Tau was identified in the hippocampus in extracellular clusters that co-expressed p75NTR suggesting a link between Tau and p75NTR. Although the significance of the relationship between p75NTR and Tau is unclear, a decrease in Tau-1 immunoreactivity as gp120 mice entered old age (>16 months) suggests that the Tau may transition to more pathological modifications; a process blocked by LM11A-31. Overall, the effects of LM11A-31 are consistent with strong neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory actions that have significant therapeutic potential.
Application of physics-based flow models in cardiovascular medicine: Current practices and challenges

Personalized physics-based flow models are becoming increasingly important in cardiovascular medicine. They are a powerful complement to traditional methods of clinical decision-making and offer a wealth of physiological information beyond conventional anatomic viewing using medical imaging data. These models have been used to identify key hemodynamic biomarkers, such as pressure gradient and wall shear stress, which are associated with determining the functional severity of cardiovascular diseases. Importantly, simulation-driven diagnostics can help researchers understand the complex interplay between geometric and fluid dynamic parameters, which can ultimately improve patient outcomes and treatment planning. The possibility to compute and predict diagnostic variables and hemodynamics biomarkers can therefore play a pivotal role in reducing adverse treatment outcomes and accelerate development of novel strategies for cardiovascular disease management.
Characterization of the cutaneous mycobiota in Persian cats with severe dermatophytosis

Background Persian cats are predisposed to chronic and severe dermatophytosis. Alterations to the cutaneous microbiota are one potential contributor to this predisposition. Objectives To characterise the cutaneous and environmental fungal microbiota of Persian cats with chronic, severe dermatophytosis, and to compare the fungal microbiota of cats with and without dermatophytosis. Animals Thirty-six client-owned cats, including 26 Persian cats and 10 domestic long hair (DLH) cats. Methods and materials Skin and home environment swabs were collected from Persian cats with severe, chronic dermatophytosis as well as groups of healthy control cats (Persian and DLH). Sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) region was performed in addition to ITS1 quantitative PCR and fungal culture. Results Next-generation sequencing (NGS) targeting the fungal ITS region detected Microsporum sp. DNA from all Persian cats diagnosed with dermatophytosis and from environmental samples of their homes. A significant difference in community structure was identified between cases and controls, largely resulting from the Microsporum spp. DNA in samples from affected cats. Persian cats with dermatophytosis do not exhibit decreased fungal diversity. NGS failed to identify dermatophyte DNA on two culture-positive asymptomatic Persian controls and identified Trichophyton rubrum DNA from a culture-negative asymptomatic Persian control. Conclusions Aside from M. canis, our results indicate that an underlying fungal dysbiosis is not likely to play a role in development of dermatophytosis in Persian cats. Other explanations for predisposition to this disease, such as a primary immunodeficiency, ineffective grooming or unique features of Persian cat hair should be investigated.
Assessing Change in Communication Limitations in Primary Progressive Apraxia of Speech and Aphasia: A 1-Year Follow-Up Study.

Purpose Individuals with primary progressive apraxia of speech have apraxia of speech (AOS) as the initial and predominant symptom. Many develop aphasia and/or dysarthria later in the disease cours...
Twisting finite-dimensional modules for the q-Onsager algebra $${\mathcal {O}}_q$$ O q via the Lusztig automorphism

The q-Onsager algebra $${\mathcal {O}}_q$$ is defined by two generators A, $$A^*$$ and two relations, called the q-Dolan/Grady relations. Recently, Baseilhac and Kolb (Transform Groups, 2020, https://doi.org/10.1007/s00031-020-09555-7 ) found an automorphism L of $${\mathcal {O}}_q$$ , that fixes A and sends $$A^*$$ to a linear combination of $$A^*$$ , $$A^2A^*$$ , $$AA^*A$$ , $$A^*A^2$$ . Let V denote an irreducible $${\mathcal {O}}_q$$ -module of finite dimension at least two, on which each of A, $$A^*$$ is diagonalizable. It is known that A, $$A^*$$ act on V as a tridiagonal pair of q-Racah type, giving access to four familiar elements K, B, $$K^\downarrow $$ , $$B^\downarrow $$ in $$\mathrm{End}(V)$$ that are used to compare the eigenspace decompositions for A, $$A^*$$ on V. We display an invertible $$H \in \mathrm{End}(V)$$ such that $$L(X)=H^{-1} X H$$ on V for all $$X \in {\mathcal {O}}_q$$ . We describe what happens when one of K, B, $$K^\downarrow $$ , $$B^\downarrow $$ is conjugated by H. For example $$H^{-1}KH=a^{-1}A-a^{-2}K^{-1}$$ where a is a certain scalar that is used to describe the eigenvalues of A on V. We use the conjugation results to compare the eigenspace decompositions for A, $$A^*$$ , $$L^{\pm 1}(A^*)$$ on V. In this comparison we use the notion of an equitable triple; this is a 3-tuple of elements in $$\mathrm{End}(V)$$ such that any two satisfy a q-Weyl relation. Our comparison involves eight equitable triples. One of them is $$a A - a^2 K$$ , $$M^{-1}$$ , K where $$M= (a K-a^{-1} B)(a-a^{-1})^{-1}$$ . The map M appears in earlier work of Bockting-Conrad (Linear Algebra Appl 437:242–270, 2012) concerning the double lowering operator $$\psi $$ of a tridiagonal pair.
Alternate therapeutic pathways for PARP inhibitors and potential mechanisms of resistance

Homologous recombination (HR) repair deficiency impairs the proper maintenance of genomic stability, thus rendering cancer cells vulnerable to loss or inhibition of DNA repair proteins, such as poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1). Inhibitors of nuclear PARPs are effective therapeutics for a number of different types of cancers. Here we review key concepts and current progress on the therapeutic use of PARP inhibitors (PARPi). PARPi selectively induce synthetic lethality in cancer cells with homologous recombination deficiencies (HRDs), the most notable being cancer cells harboring mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Recent clinical evidence, however, shows that PARPi can be effective as cancer therapeutics regardless of BRCA1/2 or HRD status, suggesting that a broader population of patients might benefit from PARPi therapy. Currently, four PARPi have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of advanced ovarian and breast cancer with deleterious BRCA mutations. Although PARPi have been shown to improve progression-free survival, cancer cells inevitably develop resistance, which poses a significant obstacle to the prolonged use of PARP inhibitors. For example, somatic BRCA1/2 reversion mutations are often identified in patients with BRCA1/2-mutated cancers after treatment with platinum-based therapy, causing restoration of HR capacity and thus conferring PARPi resistance. Accordingly, PARPi have been studied in combination with other targeted therapies to overcome PARPi resistance, enhance PARPi efficacy, and sensitize tumors to PARP inhibition. Moreover, multiple clinical trials are now actively underway to evaluate novel combinations of PARPi with other anticancer therapies for the treatment of PARPi-resistant cancer. In this review, we highlight the mechanisms of action of PARP inhibitors with or without BRCA1/2 defects and provide an overview of the ongoing clinical trials of PARPi. We also review the current progress on PARPi-based combination strategies and PARP inhibitor resistance.
Canonical Equation K27 for Normalized Spectral Functions of Random Symmetric Block Matrices

In this chapter, we consider random symmetric matrices \( {\Xi _{n\;x\;n}} = (\xi _{ij}^{(n)})_{i,j = 1}^n \) with asymptotically independent entries. It is proved that, for almost all x and any e > 0, under certain restrictions, $$ \mathop {\lim }\limits_{n \to \infty } \;P\{ |{\mu _n}(x) - {F_n}(x)|\; > \;\varepsilon \} = 0, $$ where $$ {\mu _n}(x) = {n^{ - 1}}\sum\limits_{k = 1}^n \chi ({\lambda _k}\;{\rm{ < }}x), $$ χ(λ k < x) is the indicator function, λ k are eigenvalues of the matrix \( {\Xi _{n\;{\rm{x }}n}} = (\xi _{ij}^{(n)})_{i,j = 1}^n, \) F n (x) is the distribution function whose Stieltjes transform is equal to $$ \int_{ - \infty }^\infty {{{(x - z)}^{ - 1}}\;{\rm{d}}{F_n}(x) = {n^{ - 1}}\sum\limits_{k = 1}^p {Tr} \;{C_{kk}}(z),\;z = t + is, s \ne 0,} \; $$ and the block matrices C kk (z), k = 1,..., p, of dimensionality q x q satisfy the system of canonical equations if K 27 $$ {C_{kk}}(z) = {\{ {[{A_{pq\;{\rm{x }}pq}} - z{I_{pq\;{\rm{x }}pq}} - ({\delta _{lj}}\sum\limits_{s = 1}^p E \;H_{js}^{(n)}{C_{ss}}(z)H_{js}^{(n)T})_{l,j = 1}^p]^{ - 1}}\} _{kk}}, $$ where k = 1,..., p, A pq x pq is a nonrandom matrix, I pq x pq is the identity matrix, \( H_{js}^{(n)} \) are random matrices of dimensionality q x q, p and q are some integers and notation {A} kk means the kth diagonal block of size q x q of the matrix A.
Paraguay's Archive of Terror: International Cooperation and Operation Condor

Presented at the XII International Congress of the Latin American Studies Association, Miami, Florida March 16 18, 2000. Not for citation without the permission of the author. This research was sponsored by a Fulbright grant provided by the Council of International Exchange of Scholars. The author would like to thank the Comite de Iglesias para Ayudas de Emergencia and the International Human Rights Law Group, and Reed Brody for supporting the grant. Affiliations stated for identification purposes only. The ideas contained in this paper represent the views of the author only. 1. Katie Zoglin (J.D., Harvard Law School) spent over four months reviewing documents in Paraguay's Archive of Terror through a Fulbright grant provided by the Council of International Exchange of Scholars.
A sporadic low‐velocity layer atop the western U.S. mantle transition zone and short‐wavelength variations in transition zone discontinuities

Teleseismic receiver function analysis of data from six dense arrays in the western U.S. is used to investigate mantle transition zone (MTZ) discontinuities and the prevalence of a low-velocity layer atop the 410 km discontinuity (410-LVL). Negative polarity Ps arrivals indicative of a low-velocity layer with a top 25–60 km above the 410 are identified in 8–11 out of 18 stacks of receiver functions from highly sampled back azimuth corridors. The 410-LVL is interpreted as partial melt resulting from upwelling of hydrated mantle across a water solubility contrast at the 410. The 669 km mean depth of the 660 km discontinuity (660) and the magnitude of 660 topography suggest variable hydration, locally approaching saturation, in addition to >150 K lateral temperature variations beneath five arrays. Mean amplitudes of P410s and P660s increase monotonically with period from 2 to 10 s; however, greater variations are observed in the frequency dependence of P410s compared to P660s implying 410 thickness is more heterogeneous. Variable 410 thickness is attributed to changes in hydration modulating the width of the olivine-to-wadsleyite transition interval. Frequency dependence of P660s amplitudes suggests a broad velocity gradient consistent with multivariate phase changes in the olivine and garnet systems. Sporadic detection of the 410-LVL, the magnitude and length scales of MTZ discontinuity topography, and inferred variations in hydration support the occurrence of vigorous small-scale convection in the western U.S. mantle. Comparison of receiver functions with body wave tomography suggests small-scale convection driven by sinking slab segments and lithospheric instabilities contributes to the intermittent nature of the 410-LVL.
Introduction to Statistical Methods in Modern Genetics

BACKGROUND TO MODERN STATISTICAL GENETICS Introduction: Where is the Gene? Function of Genes in Reproduction Some Facts in Molecular Genetics Tools in Molecular Genetics Genetic Engineering Exercise 1 LINKAGE ANALYSIS WITH QUALITATIVE TRAIT Basic Concepts in Pedigree Analysis Linkage analysis for Large Pedigrees Incomplete Penetrance and Sibling Studies Designs in Linkage Analysis Exercise 2 GENETICS OF QUANTITATIVE TRAIT Quantitative Trait Locus (QTL) Based on Sibpairs Interval Mapping of Quantitative Trait Loci Heritability Estimation Breeding Value Evaluation Models Exercise 3 SPECIAL TOPICS Small Area Gene Mapping by Linkage Disequilibrium Gene, Exon, and Intron Identification Reconstruction of Evolutionary Path Forensic Evidence Using Genetic Markers Exercise 4 APPENDIX A: STATISTICAL RESULTS USEFUL IN GENETICS Multivariate Analysis and Regression Likelihood Ratio Test and General Linear Models Multinomial Distribution Inference on Frequency Tables Discriminant Analysis and Neural Network APPENDIX B: SELECTED PUBLIC DOMAIN COMPUTER PROGRAMS FOR GENETIC DATA ANALYSIS A Teaching Linkage Analysis Program for Two Generation Families A Simulation Program to Computer ELOD and Var(LOD) for Two Generation Families Liped and Programs Described in Terwilliger and Ott's Handbook Simlink - Power Prediction for Given Pedigress SIB-PAIR A Nonparametric Linkage Software MAPMAKER/SIBS, MAPMAKER/QTL, Genehunter, GAS A SAS Program to Computer Kinships Coefficients Using SAS-IML to Solve Handerson's Equation ETDT GeneBank and Genetic Data Sources Answers or Hints to Exercises Bibliography
Roots of a Region: Southern Folk Culture

Reviewed Medium: book Authors: John A. Burrison Year: 2008 Pages: 224 Publisher: University Press of Mississippi ISBN: 978-1-934110-20-1 (hard cover). Prices: $50.00 USD(hard cover).
Predicting survival in women with breast cancer and brain metastasis: a nomogram outperforms current survival prediction models.

BACKGROUND: Brain metastases (BMs) are a common occurrence in patients with breast cancer, and accurately predicting survival in these patients is critical to appropriate management. A survival nomogram for breast cancer patients with BM was constructed, and its performance is compared to current predictive models of survival. METHODS: A Cox proportional hazards regression with a nomogram representation was used to model survival in a population of 261 women with breast cancer and BMs treated from 1999 to 2008. The model was validated internally by 10-fold cross-validation and bootstrapping, and concordance (c) indices were calculated. The predictive performance of the nomogram described here is compared to current prognostic models, including recursive partitioning analysis, graded prognostic assessment, and diagnosis-specific graded prognostic assessment. RESULTS: The c-index for the model described here was 0.67. It outperformed recursive partitioning analysis, graded prognostic assessment, and diagnosis-specific graded prognostic assessment, based on c-index comparisons. CONCLUSIONS: The nomogram described here outperformed current strategies for survival prediction in breast cancer patients with BMs. Two additional advantages of this nomogram are its ability to predict individualized, 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival for novel patients and its straightforward representations of the relative effects of each of 9 covariates on neurologic survival. This represents a potentially valuable alternative to current models of survival prediction in this patient population. Cancer 2012. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Fat metabolism in higher plants. LI. Palmitic and stearic synthesis by an avocado supernatant system.

Abstract The synthesis of palmitic and stearic acids by soluble proteins from avocado mesocarp has been examined. Evidence suggests that palmitate is made de novo and stearate by elongation of a C16 precursor. While the synthesis of palmitate from malonyl CoA is arsenite insensitive, the elongation reaction from palmitate to stearate is arsenite sensitive. The pattern of synthesis of the two acids is neither dependent on the malonyl CoA/acetyl CoA ratio nor is altered by the addition of exogenous lipids and detergents. The reaction products are 20% thiol esters and 80% free fatty acids. When the incubation system was separated by gel filtration on Sephadex G-75 or G-150 columns two protein peaks were rapidly eluted. Over 60% of the 14C fatty acids were eluted with the protein peaks, the majority of the 14C fatty acids being in the first peak which contained only 10% of the total protein. The predominant acid of the first peak was stearate with 85% as the free acid. The second peak contained 30% thiol esters, including shorter-chain acids. It also contained fatty acid synthetase activity and [3H]ACP. When [14C-malonyl] CoA is added to a reaction mixture containing protein from this peak, palmitate is found exclusively. Thus, the de novo system is associated with this peak. The elongation system is no longer demonstrable with peaks 1 or 2. Unspecific binding of free fatty acids was negligible. [14C]Palmityl-acyl carrier protein was elongated to stearate by an acetone powder of avocado supernatant fraction. It was a more effective precursor than [14C]palmitic acid or [14C-palmityl] CoA. From these results we conclude that avocado supernatant fraction contains a fatty acid synthetase-forming palmitate and an elongation system which forms stearate by malonyl CoA addition to a C16 precursor, possibly palmityl-ACP. The latter system is arsenite sensitive.
An approximation scheme for optimal control of Volterra integral equations

We present and analyze a new method for solving optimal control problems for Volterra integral equations, based on approximating the controlled Volterra integral equations by a sequence of systems of controlled ordinary differential equations. The resulting approximating problems can then be solved by dynamic programming methods for ODE controlled systems. Other, straightforward versions of dynamic programming, are not applicable to Volterra integral equations. We also derive the connection between our version of dynamic programming and the Hamiltonian equations for Volterra controlled systems.
Seasonality, microhabitat and cryptic variation in tropical salamander reproductive cycles

In many salamanders, most aspects of reproduction coincide with seasonal changes in abiotic factors such as temperature and humidity. However, while these reproductive patterns have been well documented for temperate salamanders, detailed data for tropical species are relatively sparse. I used histological techniques to examine temporal variation in the spermatogenetic cycles of four species of Guatemalan bolitoglossine salamanders (Bolitoglossa occidentalis, B. rostrata, Dendrotriton bromeliacia and Pseudoeurycea goebeli) from different microhabitats along an elevational gradient. All four species have mature sperm present in the testis throughout the year, irrespective of patterns of courtship and egg-laying. Additionally, the two species from more seasonal habitats (B. occidentalis and B. rostrata) exhibit significant but cryptic levels of variation in the amount of spermatozoa present in the testis not detectable by external appearance or the presence of secondary sexual characteristics. For the two species from less seasonal cloud forests (D. bromeliacia and P. goebeli), there were no detectable patterns to variation within the testis. Regional variation in climate undoubtedly influences reproductive cycles, however, microhabitat and the immediate environment are also important determinants of reproductive strategy.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Anger: A Meta-Analysis

Anger has come to be recognized as a significantsocial problem worthy of clinical attention andsystematic research. In the last two decades,cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has emerged as themost common approach to anger management. Theoverall efficacy of this treatment has not beenascertained, and therefore, it was decided to conduct ameta-analysis of this literature. Based on 50 studiesincorporating 1,640 subjects, it was found that CBT produceda grand mean weighted effect size of .70, indicatingthat the average CBT recipient was better off than 76%of untreated subjects in terms of anger reduction. This effect was statistically significant,robust, and relatively homogeneous across studies. Thesefindings represent a quantitative integration of 20years of research into a coherent picture of theefficacy of CBT for anger management. The results alsoserve as an impetus for continued research on thetreatment of anger.
Carbon Monoxide Packaging for Fresh Pork

Injected and non-injected pork chops were packaged in aerobic, vacuum and modified atmosphere [with and without carbon monoxide (CO)] packages to evaluate quality and shelf life during refrigerated storage.Color stability and attractiveness was dramatically improved by the carbon monoxide treatment over any other packaging treatment in this study.This effect permits use of high carbon dioxide atmosphere for packaging of fresh meat to achieve improved shelf life for both color and microbial quality
Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells Induce Monocytes to Increase Expression of Angiogenic Activity

Tumors are dependent on angiogenesis for survival and propagation. Accumulated evidence suggests that macrophages are a potentially important source of angiogenic factors in many disease states. However, the role(s) of macrophages in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have not been determined. We hypothesized that monocyte-derived macrophages are induced by NSCLC to increase expression of angiogenic factors. To define the role of macrophage-tumor cell interaction with respect to angiogenesis, human peripheral blood monocytes (PBM) were cocultured with A549 (human bronchoalveolar cell carcinoma) or Calu 6 (human anaplastic carcinoma) NSCLC cells. The resultant conditioned medium (CM) was evaluated for angiogenic potential and for expression of angiogenic factors. We found that endothelial cell chemotactic activity (as a measure of angiogenic potential) was significantly increased in response to CM from cocultures of PBM/NSCLC compared with PBM alone, NSCLC alone, or a combination of NSCLC and PBM CM generated separately. Subsequent analysis by ELISA reveals markedly increased CXC chemokine expression, with a lesser increase in vascular endothelial growth factor, in CM from PBM/NSCLC coculture. Neutralizing Ab to angiogenic CXC chemokines blocked the increase in endothelial cell chemotaxis. Furthermore, with separately generated CM as a stimulus, we found that macrophages are the predominant source of increased CXC chemokine expression. Finally, we found that NSCLC-derived macrophage migration-inhibitory factor is responsible for the increased expression of macrophage-derived angiogenic activity. These data suggest that the interaction between host macrophages and NSCLC cells synergistically increases angiogenic potential, and that this is due to an increased elaboration of angiogenic CXC chemokines.
Enhanced Crack Segmentation Algorithm Using 3D Pavement Data

AbstractAutomatic pavement crack segmentation has gained attention among researchers and transportation agencies over the past two decades. However, most existing algorithms using two-dimensional (2D) pavement intensity images cannot provide a satisfactory performance. With the advent of sensing technology, three-dimensional (3D) line laser pavement imaging systems have become available. The objective of this paper is to propose an enhanced dynamic optimization algorithm employing the advantages of 3D pavement data to improve crack segmentation. The proposed algorithm consists of three major stages. First, a two-step Gaussian filter is applied to remove outliers from the collected laser data and rectify the profile in order to reduce the influence of cross-slope and ruts on crack segmentation. Then, a rough crack segmentation stage is conducted to adaptively identify the crack regions of interest. Finally, a bounding box and major orientation for each valid crack region of interest will provide searching ...
Pursuing the Pedagogical Potential of the Pillars of Hip-hop through Urban Science Education

Normal.dotm 0 0 1 102 583 Teachers College, Columbia University 4 1 715 12.0 0 false 18 pt 18 pt 0 0 false false false /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} Despite the recent popularity of hip-hop based education, and the increasing diversity of academics who consume, critique, and create artifacts produced by hip-hop, there is a general superficiality in the relationship between hip-hop and education. I argue that this is the case because of the societal fascination with the most visible and commercially promoted aspects of the culture, and the misperception that these small strands of hip-hop are representative of the complexities of the culture. In response, this paper focuses on the often-forgotten four pillars of hip-hop, and explores the pedagogical potential of each of these pillars in the development of a hip-hop based approach to pedagogy.
Spatial and temporal variability of forest floor duff characteristics in long-unburned Pinus palustris forests

Duff fires (smouldering in fermentation and humus forest floor horizons) and their consequences have been docu- mented in fire-excluded ecosystems but with little attention to their underlying drivers. Duff characteristics influence the ignition and spread of smouldering fires, and their spatial patterns on the forest floor may be an important link to the heterogeneity of consumption observed following fires. We evaluated fuel bed characteristics (depths, bulk densities, and moisture) of duff in a long-unburned longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) forest and corresponding spatial variation across 100 to 103 m scales. Fermentation and humus horizon depths both varied (100% coefficient of variation) but with moderate to strong spatial autocorrelation at fine scales. Fermentation bulk density varied less than humus bulk density, which varied considerably at fine scales. Fermentation horizons held more moisture (average 49%-172%) and were much more variable than humus following rainfall, which remained stable and relatively dry (average 28%-62%). Humus moisture was moderately autocorrelated at fine scales, but fermentation moisture was highly variable, showing no evidence of spatial autocorrelation under dry, intermediate, or wet conditions. Observations from this study highlight the underlying spatial variability in duff, informing future sampling and fire management efforts in these long-unburned coniferous forests.
Use of upper endoscopy to evaluate patients with a positive faecal occult blood test and negative colonoscopy: is it appropriate?

e i 3 i d positive FOBT who have a negative colonoscopy. Among the 99 patients, 70 had a normal colonoscopic xamination and 29 had a potential source of occult bleeding dentified by colonoscopy. Overall, the authors found that 5 of the 99 patients (35%) had an abnormal EGD. Interestngly, the proportion of patients who had an abnormal EGD id not differ between subjects with a normal colonoscopy in diameter (17–27%) is low [6,11,12]. There are several reasons that may explain the low positive predictive value of FOBT for CRC and large polyps, including use of the test in a low-risk screening population, bleeding from trivial colonic lesions other than CRC or large polyps, blood loss from the upper gastrointestinal tract, non-compliance
Thrombin stimulation of inflammatory breast cancer cells leads to aggressiveness via the EGFR-PAR1-Pak1 pathway

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) accounts for a small fraction but aggressive form of epithelial breast cancer. Although the role of thrombin in cancer is beginning to be unfolded, its impact on the biology of IBC remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to establish the role of thrombin on the invasiveness of IBC cells. The IBC SUM149 cell line was treated with thrombin in the absence or presence of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor erlotinib and protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) inhibitor. The effects of pharmacological inhibitors on the ability of thrombin to stimulate the growth rate and invasiveness were examined. We found that the inhibition of putative cellular targets of thrombin action suppresses both the growth and invasiveness of SUM149 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, thrombin-mediated increased invasion of SUM149 cells was routed through EGFR phosphorylation, and in turn, stimulation of the p21-activated kinase (Pak1) activity in a EGFR-sensitive manner. Interestingly, thrombin-mediated activation of the Pak1 pathway stimulation was blocked by erlotinib and PAR1 inhibitor. For proof-of-principle studies, we found immunohistochemical evidence of Pak1 activation as well as expression of PAR1 in IBC. Thrombin utilizes EGFR to relay signals promoting SUM149 cell growth and invasion via the Pak1 pathway. The study provides the rationale for future therapeutic approaches in mitigating the invasive nature of IBC by targeting Pak1 and/or EGFR.
A civic trend within ethnic transnationalism? Some insights from classical social theory and the Chinese American experience

In this article I contribute to the debates on transnationalism by reconceptualizing the relationship between transnationalism and assimilation. I posit an ideal-type distinction between gemeinschaft- and gesellschaft-like transnational practices and suggest an evolving trend towards the latter. In so doing, I show how two bodies of existing work that have generally been self-contained can usefully be integrated in the study of transnationalism–namely the work of Glick Schiller, Portes and others on ethnic transnationalism and that of Keohane, Sikkink and others on civic transnationalism. In the article I treat the experience of Chinese Americans, who are a pertinent case for analysis because of their longstanding migration to and presence in US society. I begin by laying a theoretical foundation, go on to trace the history of Chinese American transnationalism, present evidence of contemporary Chinese Americans' involvement in a variety of civic associations, and conclude with discussion of this visible trend towards heightened civic transnational activity.
Lipid-protein and lipid-lipid interactions in cytochrome oxidase model membranes.

Two lipid environments are detected in membranous cytochrome oxidase, using spin labeling techniques. This model membrane system consists of closed vesicular membranes formed spontaneously when the membrane protein is isolated with its accompanying phospholipids. The data show both an immobilized component, which is constant in amount, and a fluid component. Based on spectral analysis, the interpretation is that the bound component represents a single layer of lipid immobilized on the surface of the protein between the hydrophobic protein complex and the adjacent fluid bilayer regions. Maximal enzyme activity of this functional protein complex is attained when all of the bound sites are occupied, and above this level additional phospholipid (bilayer) has little or no effect on the enzyme activity.
Thermochemical functions for gas-phase, 1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetraazacyclooctane (HMX), its condensed phases, and its larger reaction products

Abstract 1,3,5,7-Tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetraazacyclooctane (HMX) is a major component of many explosives and propellants. Chemical kinetic simulations of the reactions of HMX require knowledge of its enthalpy, entropy, and heat capacity in the gas-phase and condensed phases. While some experimental measurements are available, most available thermochemical information has been obtained by analogy with the smaller species, RDX, and its reaction products. Using the Hartree-Fock method with the 6-31G∗ basis set we have calculated structures, vibrational frequencies, and bond strengths for the isolated HMX molecule and its two major reaction products. This, with some available experimental data, allows us to calculate the relevant thermochemical parameters for these species. With this information and some published experimental measurements of sublimation pressure, phase change enthalpies, and heat capacities, we have also calculated some thermochemical data for three condensed phases of HMX: β-HMX, δ-HMX and liquid HMX. We present the thermochemical parameters in both the JANAF and CHEMKIN format. We also compare the current calculations with previous estimates.
Phase Stability of The Mixed-Conducting Sr-Fe-Co-O System

Mixed-conducting ceramic oxides have potential uses in high-temperature electrochemical applications such as solid oxide fuel cells, batteries, sensors, and oxygen-permeable membranes. The Sr-Fe-Co-O system combines high electronic/ionic conductivity with appreciable oxygen permeability at elevated temperatures. Dense ceramic membranes made of this material can be used to separate high-purity oxygen from air without the need for external electrical circuitry, or to partially oxidize methane to produce syngas. Samples of Sr{sub 2}Fe{sub 3{minus}x}Co{sub x}O{sub y} (with x = 0, 0.6, 1.0, and 1.4) were prepared by solid-state reaction method in atmospheres with various oxygen partial pressures (pO{sub 2}) and were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and electrical conductivity testing. Phase components of the sample are dependent on cobalt concentration and pO{sub 2}. Electrical conductivity increases with increasing temperature and cobalt content in the material.
Characterization of nonpoint source microbial contamination in an urbanizing watershed serving as a municipal water supply

Inland watersheds in the southeastern United States are transitioning from agricultural and forested land uses to urban and exurban uses at a rate greater than the national average. This study sampled creeks representing a variety of land use factors in a rapidly urbanizing watershed that also serves as a drinking water supply. Samples were collected bimonthly under dry-weather conditions and four times during each of three storm events and assessed for microbial indicators of water quality. Concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) including fecal coliforms and Escherichia coli were measured using standard membrane filtration techniques. Results showed that FIB concentrations varied between 100 and 104 colony forming units (CFU) per 100 mL. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that FIB were generally higher in more developed watersheds (p < 0.01). Concentrations were also significantly greater during storm events than during dry-weather conditions (p < 0.02), although concentrations demonstrated both intra and inter-storm variability. These results indicate that the magnitude of microbial contamination is influenced by intensity of watershed development, streamflow and antecedent precipitation. Dry-weather FIB loads showed considerable seasonal variation, but the average storm event delivered contaminant loads equivalent to months of dry-weather loading. Analysis of intra-storm loading patterns provided little evidence to support “first-flush” loading of either FIB, results that are consistent with environmental reservoirs of FIB. These findings demonstrate that single sampling monitoring efforts are inadequate to capture the variability of microbial contaminants in a watershed, particularly if sampling is conducted during dry weather. This study also helps to identify timing and conditions for public health vulnerabilities, and for effective management interventions.
Enabling a continuum of virtual environment experiences

We define a virtual environment as a set of surroundings that appear to a user through computer-generated sensory stimuli. The level of immersion-or sense of being in another world-that a user experiences within a VE relates to how much stimuli the computer delivers to the user. Thus, one can classify VEs along a virtuality continuum, which ranges from the real world to an entirely computer-generated environment. We present a technology that allows seamless transitions between levels of immersion in VEs. Milgram and Kishino (1994) first proposed the concept of a virtuality continuum in the context of visual displays. The concept of a virtuality continuum extends to multimodal VEs, which combine multiple sensory stimuli, including 3D sound and haptic capability, leading to a multidimensional virtuality continuum. Emerging applications will benefit from multiple levels of immersion, requiring innovative multimodal technologies and the ability to traverse the multidimensional virtuality continuum.
Influence of preoperative patient education on the risk of dislocation after primary total hip arthroplasty.

Objective Dislocation is a well-known complication after total hip arthroplasty (THA), and is the second-highest cause of revision surgery. Our objective was to assess the effect of preoperative patient education on the occurrence of hip dislocation within 6 months after primary THA. Methods Between 1998 and 2007, we conducted a prospective cohort study at the Geneva University Hospital Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, including all primary THAs performed via an anterolateral transgluteal approach with the use of a 28-mm diameter head. The preoperative education session was introduced in June 2002 and included advice on muscle strengthening exercises and postoperative restrictions of range of motion as a means of preventing dislocation. The main outcome was the incidence of dislocation within 6 months of surgery. Results A total of 597 patients who underwent 656 THAs between June 2002 and June 2007 participated in the education session, whereas 1,641 patients who underwent 1,945 procedures did not. Forty-six dislocations occurred over the study period, 5 (0.8%) in participants and 41 (2.1%) in nonparticipants (absolute risk reduction 1.3%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.4, 2.3), with the time interval between surgery and dislocation being significantly shorter among participants (0.2 versus 1.2 months). Nonparticipants had a 2.8 times higher risk of dislocation than participants (unadjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.80; 95% CI 1.10, 7.13). Adjustment for age, sex, comorbidities, and prior surgery did not change the results (adjusted OR 2.79; 95% CI 1.09, 7.15). Conclusion Our findings suggest that participation in a preoperative patient education session may reduce the risk of dislocation within 6 months after THA.