cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Doomed to Act: Why Postmodern Education May Be Impossible, Not Just (Im)possible

Gert Biesta has developed a theory of education rooted in postmodern thought. The critical power of various postmodern theorists has been employed in education before. Producing a positive theory of education was also tried, but Biesta’s, in my opinion, is the most convincing and original attempt. Frank Margonis is sympathetic to the project, but he is not willing to give up the humanistic tradition. He acknowledges that the postmodern, or posthumanist pedagogy is possible, but it should be used alongside a critical, Freirean one. He does it by casting these pedagogies as forms of address. Different students, he argues, should be addressed differently.
Parallel Computing Using Linux

various classes of problems lend themselves to parallel computing solutions. This article discusses the concepts and shows how Linux can be used to address the problem
Non-Euclidean distance measures in AIRS, an artificial immune classification system

The AIRS classifier, based on principles derived from resource limited artificial immune systems, performs consistently well over a broad range of classification problems. This paper explores the effects of adding nonEuclidean distance measures to the basic AIRS algorithm using four well-known publicly available classification problems having various proportions of real, discrete, and nominal features.
Use of Veterinary Records to Teach Laboratory Thinking Skills in Biology

Recently, a draft recommendation regarding the teaching of a core laboratory curriculum was released by the American Society for Microbiology (1997). Written by a diverse group of microbiology educators who teach in community colleges, liberal arts colleges, comprehensive universities, and research universities, the document recommends essential techniques and content to standardize the microbiology learning experience through teaching of laboratory safety, laboratory skills and laboratory thinking skills (ASM 1997). While the recommendation is somewhat specific for microbiology, several important strategies were identified to develop strong cognitive, analytical, communication and interpersonal skills (ASM 1997) which are applicable across biology laboratory curricula. The document recommends that laboratory curricula include:
Ratios of Four STAT3 Splice Variants in Human Eosinophils and Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma Cells.

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a key mediator of leukocyte differentiation and proliferation. The 3' end of STAT3 transcripts is subject to two alternative splicing events. One results in either full-length STAT3α or in STAT3β, which lacks part of the C-terminal transactivation domain. The other is at a tandem donor (5') splice site and results in the codon for Ser-701 being included (S) or excluded (ΔS). Despite the proximity of Ser-701 to the site of activating phosphorylation at Tyr-705, ΔS/S splicing has barely been studied. Sequencing of cDNA from purified eosinophils revealed the presence of four transcripts (S-α, ΔS-α, S-β, and ΔS-β) rather than the three reported in publically available databases from which ΔS-β is missing. To gain insight into regulation of the two alternative splicing events, we developed a quantitative(q) PCR protocol to compare transcript ratios in eosinophils in which STAT3 is upregulated by cytokines, activated B cell diffuse large B cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) cells in which STAT3 is dysregulated, and in germinal center B cell-like DLBCL cells in which it is not. With the exception of one line of activated B cell DLCBL cells, the four variants were found in roughly the same ratios despite differences in total levels of STAT3 transcripts. S-α was the most abundant, followed by S-β. ΔS-α and ΔS-β together comprised 15.6±4.0 % (mean±SD, n=21) of the total. The percentage of STAT3β variants that were ΔS was 1.5-fold greater than of STAT3α variants that were ΔS. Inspection of Illumina’s “BodyMap” RNA-Seq database revealed that the ΔS variant accounts for 10-26 % of STAT3 transcripts across 16 human tissues, with less variation than three other genes with the identical tandem donor splice site sequence. Thus, it seems likely that all cells contain the S-α, ΔS-α, S-β, and ΔS-β variants of STAT3.
Biased Search Trees

We consider the problem of storing items from a totally ordered set in a search tree so that the access time for a given item depends on a known estimate of the access frequency of the item. We describe two related classes of biased search trees whose average access time is within a constant factor of the minimum and that are easy to update under insertions, deletions and more radical update operations. We present and analyze efficient update algorithms for biased search trees. We list several applications of such trees.
Relationship of Li{sub 2}WO{sub 4} to the scheelite tungstate scintillators: Electronic structure and atomic positions from density-functional calculations

Density-functional calculations of the electronic structure and atomic positions are reported for Li{sub 2}WO{sub 4}. This compound is found to be very different from the tungstate scintillators such as PbWO{sub 4} in that both the valence and conduction bands are much less dispersive. This leads to a substantially larger band gap. The difference is understood in terms of the crystal structure, in particular, the longer O-O distances connecting the WO{sub 4} tetrahedra.
Improving sentinel lymph node detection rates in endometrial cancer: how many cases are needed?

Abstract Objective To describe sentinel lymph node (SLN) detection rates in endometrial cancer and estimate how many cases are needed to achieve >90% SLN detection. Methods We conducted a prospective study of patients undergoing primary surgery for endometrial cancer between September 2005 and March 2009. Lymph node mapping was performed using blue dye injection into the cervix in all cases. Additional injection methods included blue dye injection in the uterine fundus, and cervical injection of Tc99m. SLNs were identified and removed, followed by regional lymph node dissection. The results were analyzed according to two study periods: an "early" phase (September 2005–December 2007) and a "late" phase (January 2008–March 2009). Results One hundred and fifteen patients with endometrial cancer were included. The cervix was the only site of injection in 82 cases (71%), while a combined cervical and fundal injection was performed in 33 cases (29%). Overall, SLN detection was achieved in 98 (85%) cases. In the initial 27 months of the study, a SLN was identified in 50 of 64 cases (78%), with 2 false negative cases. In the subsequent 15 months, successful mapping was achieved in 48 of 51 cases (94%) with no false negative cases. When examining an individual provider's performance, after the first 30 cases, the rate of successful mapping significantly increased from 77% to 94% ( P =0.033). Conclusion Sentinel node mapping in uterine cancer requires a dedicated effort to achieve high detection rates. Surgeons should determine their individual detection rates and false negative rates. Our data demonstrate that high SLN detection rates can be achieved in women with uterine cancer and increasing surgical volume (30 cases) is associated with significantly increased detection rates.
Matrix Elasticity and Nuclear Physics

Physical cues such as matrix elasticity can affect cell morphology, mechanics, and even differentiation. Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have previously been shown to change shape and specify lineage toward neurons, muscle, and bone based on tissue-like elasticity (E ∼ 1 - 34 kPa) which has been mimicked with polyacrylamide gels coated with collagen. We confirm the importance of E as a material independent parameter that directs cell shape by using a wide range of cross-linked hyaluronic acid hydrogels that also demonstrate mechano-sensitivity in three dimensions. In addition, matrix elasticity is shown to impact nuclear shape, suggesting novel physical mechanisms of gene regulation - which is analyzed in initial stages of spreading by whole genome analyses.
The benefits of sexual expression on physical health

Introduction In 2003 the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA), in cooperation with the Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality, published a white paper on the Health Benefits of Sexual Expression. Although most reports focus on potential negative outcomes of sexual expression, this presentation based on PPFA paper and more recent research, will focus on the positive benefits of sexual expression on physical health. Methods and Results An analysis of published data demonstrate a positive effect of sexual expression on decreased mortality, lower frequency of fatal coronary events, and decreased risk of breast cancer in men and women. The effects of sexual expression on general well-being, pain management, and quality of life will also be addressed. Conclusion This discussion will address the health benefits of sensual and sexual expressions not just benefits of sexual intercourse. There is a need for more research in the area of the positive health benefits of pleasure, sensual, and sexual expression.
Biosyntheses of galactosyl lipids and polysaccharide in Streptococcus mutans.

Abstract The syntheses of galactosylphospholipids and a galactose-containing polymer were observed when radiolabeled UDP-galactose was incubated with the membrane enzymes prepared from a strain of Streptococcus mutans , FA-1. The lipids were resolved into two components, lipids-1 and -2, by thin-layer and DEAE-cellulose column chromatographies. In the latter chromatography, lipid-1 was eluted by 0.0075 M and lipid-2 by 0.18 M ammonium acetate. The syntheses of lipids-1 and -2 were strongly inhibited by UDP and UMP, respectively. Both lipids-1 and -2 were degraded by mild acid, but were stable to mild alkaline hydrolysis. These results, together with their mobilities on thin-layer chromatography, suggest that lipid-1 is a galactosylphosphorylundecaprenol, and lipid-2 is a galactosylpyrophosphorylundecaprenol. When UDP-galactose was incubated with radiolabeled undecaprenol and ATP in the presence of membrane enzymes, lipids with thin-layer chromatographic mobilities of lipid-1 and lipid-2 were observed. The phosphate-to-galactose ratios in lipid-1 and lipid-2 were determined to be 1:1 and 2:1, respectively. These results indicated that lipid-1 and lipid-2 formed are galactosylmonophosphorylundecaprenol and galactosylpyrophosphorylundecaprenol, respectively. The polymer formed was eluted from the DEAE-cellulose column with a low concentration of salts (less than 0.1 M), suggesting that it is probably a polysaccharide, but not a lipoteichoic acid or teichoic acid-type polymer. In order to identify the sugars present in the polymer synthesized, the polymer purified by Sephadex G-50 and DEAE-cellulose column chromatographies was subjected to acid hydrolysis followed by NaB 3 H 4 reduction and paper chromatographic analysis. [ 3 H]Galactitol and a small amount of [ 3 H]galactosaminitol were detected. This result suggests that the polymer is a nascent polysaccharide containing mainly galactose and a small amount of galactosamine, which probably derived from N -acetylgalactosamine during acid hydrolysis of the polymer.
Painful stimuli evoke potentials recorded from the medial temporal lobe in humans.

Abstract The role of human medial temporal structures in fear conditioning has led to the suggestion that neurons in these structures might respond to painful stimuli. We have now tested the hypothesis that recordings from these structures will demonstrate potentials related to the selective activation of cutaneous nociceptors by a painful laser stimulus (laser evoked potential, LEP) (Kenton B, Coger R, Crue B, Pinsky J, Friedman Y, Carmon A (1980) Neurosci Lett 17:301–306). Recordings were carried out through electrodes implanted bilaterally in these structures for the investigation of intractable epilepsy. Reproducible LEPs were commonly recorded both bilaterally and unilaterally, while LEPs were recorded at contacts on the left (9/14, P =0.257) as commonly as on the right (5/14), independent of the hand stimulated. Along electrodes traversing the amygdala the majority of LEPs were recorded from dorsal contacts near the central nucleus of the amygdala and the nucleus basalis. Stimulus evoked changes in theta activity were observed at contacts on the right at which isolated early negative LEPs (N2*) responses could be recorded. Contacts at which LEPs could be recorded were as commonly located in medial temporal structures with evidence of seizure activity as on those without. These results demonstrate the presence of pain-related inputs to the medial temporal lobe where they may be involved in associative learning to produce anxiety and disability related to painful stimuli.
Sociocultural Parameters in Directed Change

The charge has been made that the methodological tools and theoretical models available to anthropologists are insufficiently precise to enable accurate prediction in the field of directed social and cultural change. It has further been charged that in their ex post facto analyses of the dynamics involved in such situations, anthropologists as well as other social scientists tend to give far more attention to attempted innovations that "didn't work" than to those areas where change has been successful. While the second charge is belied by many studies such as those included in the volumes edited by Spicer and Paul and the special issue of Applied Anthropology, anthropologists have, for the most part, been hesitant to extend their generalizations, based on the analysis of change, to the task of specifying, more or less concretely, the conditions favoring or inhibiting social and cultural change. Thus, in spite of a growing theoretical corpus there appears to be reluctance to put it to the practical test of...
Nutrition in Pregnant Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus) Feeding on June Beetles

We investigated whether a diet of a commonly eaten insect, June beetles ( Phyllophaga rugosa ), could meet the daily nutritional requirements of pregnant big brown bats, Eptesicus fuscus . In mid-pregnancy, ingestion of 34 culled June beetles meets daily caloric requirement and yields intakes of water, magnesium (Mg2+), potassium (K+), and nitrogen (N) that meet or exceed nutritional needs. Sodium (Na+) and total iron intake are marginally adequate, and calcium (Ca2+) intake is 10 times below estimated requirements.
Can a prediction ‘become true’?

IT HAS been maintained by certain philosophers that it is meaningless to speak of predictions "becoming true." Waismann, for example, writes: "At what moment does the statement 'it will rain tomorrow' begin to be true? When the first drop falls to the ground? And supposing that it will not rain, when will the statement begin to be false? Just at the end of the day, at 12 P.Ai. sharp? . . . We wouldn't know how to answer these questions; this is due not to any particular ignorance or stupidity on our part but to the fact that something has gone wrong with the way the words 'true' and 'false' are applied here." 1 Waismann's objection is, I believe, based on a confounding of the question of the "open texture" of meaning2 (i.e., for any event-term there is a conceivable situation in which we would not be sure whether or not to use it) with the question of what is involved in saying that a prediction becomes true. I shall argue that these two questions are independent of each other, that even though every event-term has an open texture of meaning nevertheless we can point to paradigm cases in which it is said that a prediction about the occurrence of a certain type of event becomes true. The obvious reply to Waismann's objection is that a prediction becomes true when the predicted event occurs or takes place. But, Waismann would ask, at exactly what instant does an event take place? If we can answer this question then we will ipso facto be answering the question concerning at exactly what instant a prediction becomes true, for it becomes true at the same instant at which the predicted event occurs. If Waismann's objection proves anything it proves too much, for it would show not only that it is meaningless to speak of predictions becoming true but also of events taking place, occurring, happening, becoming present, coming to pass, etc. Since we do speak of events taking place, etc., there must be something wrong with Waismann's argument. And if we can meaningfully speak of events becoming present or taking place then by the same token we must also be able to speak meaningfully about statements predicting the occurrence of such events as becoming true. In order to answer Waismann's question concerning exactly when an event takes place (and as a result a prediction about it becomes true) we will briefly, and in a most incomplete fashion, discuss some of the different types of event-terms and the sense in which the different types of events designated by these terms can be said to take place or become present. We might classify
Ferromagnetism from undressing

We have recently proposed that superconductivity may be understood as driven by the undressing of quasiparticles as the superconducting state develops. Similarly we propose here that ferromagnetism in metals may be understood as driven by the undressing of quasiparticles as the ferromagnetic state develops. In ferromagnets, the undressing is proposed to occur due to the reduction in bond charge caused by spin polarization, in contrast to superconductors where the undressing is proposed to occur due to the reduction in site charge caused by (hole) pairing. The undressing process manifests itself in the one and two-particle Green's functions as a transfer of spectral weight from high to low frequencies. Hence it should have universal observable consequences in one- and two-particle spectroscopies such as photoemission and optical absorption.
Chemically mediated learning in juvenile rainbow trout. Does predator odour pH influence intensity and retention of acquired predator recognition

The prediction that variability in ambient pH will influence the intensity and retention of learned predator recognition in juvenile rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss was tested under laboratory conditions. Juvenile rainbow trout were conditioned to recognize the odour of a novel predator at pH 6·0 or 7·0 and then tested for learned recognition of the predator odour at pH 6·0 or 7·0 at 2 or 7 days post-conditioning. When tested 2 days post-conditioning, rainbow trout exhibited a significant learned antipredator response regardless of predator odour pH. The response was stronger, however, when the test pH matched the conditioning pH. When tested 7 days post-conditioning, rainbow trout only exhibited a learned response when conditioning and testing pH were the same. These results demonstrate that episodic acidification may impair the strength and retention of acquired predator recognition learning. Given the demonstrated survival benefits associated with learned predator recognition in prey fishes, such impairment will probably have considerable negative impacts at both individual and population levels.
The large-scale dynamics of grain-size variation in alluvial basins, 1: Theory

ABSTRACT We study the interplay of various factors causing vertical grain‐size changes in alluvial basins using a simple coupled model for sediment transport and downstream partitioning of grain sizes. The sediment‐transport model is based on the linear diffusion equation; by deriving this from first principles we show that the main controls on the diffusivity are water discharge and stream type (braided or single‐thread). The grain‐size partitioning model is based on the assumption that the deposit is dominated by gravel until all gravel in transport has been exhausted, at which point deposition of the finer fractions begins. We then examine the response of an alluvial basin to sinusoidal variation in each of four basic governing variables: input sediment flux, subsidence rate, supplied gravel fraction, and diffusivity (controlled mainly by water flux). We find that, except in the case of variable gravel fraction, the form of the basin response depends strongly on the time‐scale over which the variation occurs. There is a natural time‐scale for any basin, which we call the ‘equilibrium time’, defined as the square of basin length divided by the diffusivity. We define ‘slow’ variations in imposed independent variables as those whose period is long compared with the equilibrium time. We find that slow variation in subsidence produces smoothly cyclic gravel‐front migration, with progradation during times of low sedimentation rate, while slow variation in sediment flux produces gravel progradation during times of high sedimentation rate. Slow variation in diffusivity produces no effect. Conversely, we define ‘rapid’ variations as those whose period is short compared with the equilibrium time. Our model results suggest that basins respond strongly to rapid variation in either sediment flux or diffusivity; in both cases, deep proximal unconformities are associated with abrupt gravel progradation. This progradation occurs during times of either low sediment flux or high diffusivity. On the other hand, basin response to variation in subsidence rate gradually diminishes as the time scale becomes short relative to the equilibrium time. Each of the four variables we have considered ‐ input sediment flux, subsidence, gravel fraction, and diffusivity ‐ is associated with a characteristic response pattern. In addition, the time scale of imposed variations relative to the equilibrium time acts in its own right as a fundamental control on the form of the basin response.
Signaling across the Platelet Adhesion Receptor Glycoprotein Ib-IX Induces αIIbβ3 Activation Both in Platelets and a Transfected Chinese Hamster Ovary Cell System

In platelets, alpha(IIb)beta(3) exists in a form that cannot bind adhesive proteins in the plasma; although it can interact with immobilized fibrinogen it cannot interact with immobilized von Willebrand factor in the vessel wall. Soluble agonists such as thrombin convert alpha(IIb)beta(3) to a form that recognizes soluble and immobilized ligands. Attempts to reconstitute alpha(IIb)beta(3) activation in a non-hematopoietic, nucleated cell system have been unsuccessful. In the present study, we have developed a transfected Chinese hamster ovary cell model in which alpha(IIb)beta(3) activation is induced by signaling across glycoprotein (GP) Ib-IX by its ligand, von Willebrand factor. GPIb-IX activates not only the transfected alpha(IIb)beta(3) but also endogenous alpha(v)beta(3). Activation of the pathways leading to integrin activation occurred even in cells transfected with GPIb-IX lacking the domain on GPIbalpha that binds 14-3-3 or that which binds actin-binding protein. These studies demonstrate that signals induced by interaction of GPIb-IX with von Willebrand factor lead to alpha(IIb)beta(3) activation and suggest that the signaling pathways by which GPIb-IX induces alpha(IIb)beta(3) activation are different to those used by thrombin. Elucidation of these differences may provide insights into therapeutic ways in which to inhibit integrin activation in selective clinical settings.
Acid-base blend membranes consisting of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) and 5-amino-benzotriazole tethered polysulfone for DMFC

Abstract Low cost, acid–base blend membranes have been synthesized by blending sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) (an acid polymer) and various amounts of polysulfone tethered with 5-amino-benzotriazole (a basic polymer). The blend membranes have been characterized by ion-exchange capacity (IEC), liquid uptake, proton conductivity, methanol crossover, and fuel cell performance measurements. The blend membranes exhibit superior performance in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC) compared to plain SPEEK and Nafion 115 membranes due to enhanced proton conductivity and much suppressed methanol crossover while preserving good swelling stability. The maximum power density of the blend membrane is two times higher than that of Nafion 115 membrane at 80 °C with 1 M methanol feed. Additionally, the effects of the size, pKa, and the number of nitrogen atoms of the tethered heterocycle groups on the properties of the blend membranes have also been investigated by comparing the properties of the blend membranes consisting of SPEEK and different basic polymers.
Bridging the transgenerational gap with epigenetic memory

It is textbook knowledge that inheritance of traits is governed by genetics, and that the epigenetic modifications an organism acquires are largely reset between generations. Recently, however, transgenerational epigenetic inheritance has emerged as a rapidly growing field, providing evidence suggesting that some epigenetic changes result in persistent phenotypes across generations. Here, we survey some of the most recent examples of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in animals, ranging from Caenorhabditis elegans to humans, and describe approaches and limitations to studying this phenomenon. We also review the current body of evidence implicating chromatin modifications and RNA molecules in mechanisms underlying this unconventional mode of inheritance and discuss its evolutionary implications.
'Chaotic relaxation' in concurrently asynchronous neurodynamics

A mathematical framework for reconditioning additive-type models is proposed, and a neuro-operator, based on the chaotic relaxation paradigm, whose resulting dynamics is neither concurrently synchronous nor sequentially asynchronous is derived. Necessary and sufficient conditions guaranteeing concurrent asynchronous convergence are established in terms of contracting operators. Lyapunov exponents are also computed to characterize the network dynamics and to ensure that throughput-limiting chaotic behavior in models reconditioned with concurrently asynchronous algorithms has been eliminated. >
Abstract A11: Cyclosporin A promotes tumor angiogenesis in a calcineurin-independent manner by increasing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species

The commonly used immunosuppressant cyclosporin A (CsA), a potent calcineurin inhibitor, significantly increases the incidence of cancer in organ transplant patients. Calcineurin signaling is an important mediator of VEGF signaling in endothelial cells. Negative regulation of calcineurin by its endogenous inhibitor, Down Syndrome Candidate Region-1 (DSCR1), suppresses tumor growth and angiogenesis, in contrast to the effect observed after long-term CsA treatment. Despite the significance of calcineurin signaling in endothelial cells, the consequences of CsA on tumor angiogenesis has not been investigated. Using an in vivo model of skin carcinogenesis, we show that long-term CsA treatment promotes tumor growth and angiogenesis. Treatment of endothelial cells in vitro with CsA increases proliferation and migration in a calcineurin-independent manner and is associated with increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. Co-treatment with antioxidants significantly abrogated CsA-induced endothelial cell activation. Furthermore, mice treated with antioxidants were protected against CsA-mediated tumor progression. Taken together, these findings show that CsA functions independent of calcineurin to potentiate tumor growth by promoting tumor angiogenesis via mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production. This work identifies a previously undescribed mechanism underlying a significantly adverse off-target effect of CsA and suggests that co-treatment with antioxidants may inhibit the tumor promoting effects of CsA. Citation Format: Alice Yao Zhou, Sandra W. Ryeom. Cyclosporin A promotes tumor angiogenesis in a calcineurin-independent manner by increasing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. [abstract]. In: Abstracts: AACR Special Conference on Cellular Heterogeneity in the Tumor Microenvironment; 2014 Feb 26-Mar 1; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(1 Suppl):Abstract nr A11. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.CHTME14-A11
Risk-based maintenance and rehabilitation decisions for transportation infrastructure networks

A method for determining optimal risk-based maintenance and rehabilitation (M&R) policies for transportation infrastructure is presented. The proposed policies guarantee a certain performance level across the network under a predefined level of risk. The long-term model is formulated in the Markov Decision Process framework with risk-averse actions and transitional probabilities describing the uncertainty in the deterioration process. The well known Conditional Value at Risk (CVaR) is used as the measure of risk. The steady-state risk-averse M&R policies are modeled assuming no budget restriction. To address the short-term resource allocation problem, two linear programming models are presented to generate network-level polices with different objectives. While the proposed methodology is general and can be used with any performance indicator, pavement roughness is used for numerical studies and an analytical expression for computing CVaR is derived.
Parity and breastfeeding among African-American women: differential effects on breast cancer risk by estrogen receptor status in the Women's Circle of Health Study

Purpose It has long been held that parity reduces risk of breast cancer. However, accumulating evidence indicates that the effects of parity, as well as breastfeeding, may vary according to estrogen receptor (ER) status. We evaluated these associations in a case–control study among African-American women in New York City and New Jersey.
Maternal Health Is Women's Health: A Call for Papers for Year 2 of the Maternal Health Task Force–PLOS Collection

The PLOS Medicine editors and the Maternal Health Task Force announce a new call for papers on the theme of “maternal health is women's health.”
Adopted children: core issues and unique challenges.

Topic Psychological impact of adoption and resulting core issues for adopted children. Purpose To raise awareness of the psychological impact of adoption. Sources Published literature and personal observations. Conclusions Adoption raises unique issues and challenges for the child and adoptive parents. Resolving the issues of adoption is a lifelong process. Through an awareness of the issues inherent in adoption, nurses and parents can use strategies that will enhance children's self-esteem and decrease their emotional vulnerability. Search terms: Adoption, intervention, loss, self-esteem, strategies
A channel-based color fusion technique using multispectral images for night vision enhancement

A fused image using multispectral images can increase the reliability of interpretation because it combines the complimentary information apparent in multispectral images. While a color image can be easily interpreted by human users (for visual analysis), and thus improves observer performance and reaction times. We propose a fast color fusion method, termed as channel-based color fusion, which is efficient for real time applications. Notice that the term of "color fusion" means combing multispectral images into a color-version image with the purpose of resembling natural scenes. On the other hand, false coloring technique usually has no intention of resembling natural scenery. The framework of channel-based color fusion is as follows, (1) prepare for color fusion by preprocessing, image registration and fusion; (2) form a color fusion image by properly assigning multispectral images to red, green, and blue channels; (3) fuse multispectral images (gray fusion) using a wavelet-based fusion algorithm; and (4) replace the value component of color fusion in HSV color space with the gray-fusion image, and finally transform back to RGB space. In night vision imaging, there may be two or several bands of images available, for example, visible (RGB), image intensified (II), near infrared (NIR), medium wave infrared (MWIR), long wave infrared (LWIR). The proposed channel-wise color fusions were tested with two-band (e.g., NIR + LWIR, II + LWIR, RGB + LWIR) or three-band (e.g., RGB + NIR + LWIR) multispectral images. Experimental results show that the colors in the fused images by the proposed method are vivid and comparable with that of the segmentation-based colorization. The processing speed of new method is much faster than any segmentation-based method.
Equilibrium temperatures of ideal spectrally selective surfaces

Abstract Spectrally selective surfaces were assumed for which the monochromatic emissivity changed abruptly at specific wavelengths. These surfaces could be completely characterized by two parameters: the height of the step change in emissivity, and the wavelength of the change. This characterization is more general than the widely used a e ratio. Equilibrium temperatures were calculated for such surfaces when exposed to both focused and unfocused solar radiation at the earth's orbit distance. Varying step heights at wavelengths between 0.3 and 20 microns were assumed. With unfocused radiation, temperatures as low as 40 K were found for surfaces for which the emissivity increased from zero to unity at long wavelengths, and temperatures as high as 2400 K when the change was from unity to zero at short wave-lengths. For focused radiation, much higher temperatures were found. Such surfaces may find application in power-generation cycles or in the storage of cryogenic propellants in space.
RNAi as a treatment for HIV-1 infection

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) was the first primate virus shown to be inhibited by RNA interference (RNAi). Early studies used both synthetic and promoter expressed small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or expressed short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) to demonstrate that this virus was susceptible to RNAi. In addition to targeting the virus itself RNAi-mediated down-regulation of cellular targets that encode receptors required for viral entry also proved to be effective. The power of RNAi as an anti-HIV agent has propelled development of RNAi-based gene therapy approaches for the treatment of HIV infection in humans. Nevertheless, extensive in vitro experimentation has revealed potential problems of viral escape mutants and other toxicities caused by the si/shRNAs. This review covers the progress and problems in the development of RNAi for the treatment of HIV infection. Potential modalities for clinical application of RNAi in the treatment of HIV-1 infection are also described.
Applications of model checking at Honeywell Laboratories

This paper provides a brief overview of five projects in which Honeywell has successfully used or developed model checking methods in the verification and synthesis of safety-critical systems.
Inversion of an integral transform related to a general form of heat equation

Inversion algorithms have been derived by D. V. Widder for the Weierstrass transform and by D. T. Haimo for the dual Weierstrass-Laguerre transform. For the genera1 form of heat equation - L,u = u,, L, a self adjoint operator, an integral transform is introduced with kernel related to the fundamental solution of the equation. An inversion formula for the transform is derived which includes the preViOUS reSUkS as special cases. Cf 1988 Academic Press, Inc.
Volatile constituents of wolf (Canis lupus) urine as related to gender and season

The volatile constituents of wolf urine were examined via capillary gas chromatography and compared among male, female, and castrate male. Several compounds including methyl isopentyl sulfide, 3,5-dimethyl-2-octanone, and acetophenone were clearly associated with the gender of the animal and many displayed a seasonal dependence. In addition, 2 long-chain aldehydes isolated from urine samples by an HPLC procedure also correlated with the endrocrine status of the animal.
Emergency Department Services Use Among Immigrant and Non-immigrant Groups in the United States

Immigrants have disproportionate lack of access to healthcare and insurance. Emergency departments could serve as a healthcare substitute and increased demand can negatively affect the US emergency services system. Medical Expenditures Panel Survey (2000–2008) data was modeled to compare emergency departments (ED) use between non-citizens, foreign-born (naturalized), and US-born citizens. Group differences were assessed using non-linear decomposition techniques. Non-citizens were less likely to use ED services (8.7 %) compared to naturalized immigrants (10.6 %) and US-born Americans (14.7 %). Differences in ED use persisted after adjusting for the Behavioral Model covariates. Healthcare need and insurance partially explained the differences in ED use between the groups. Between 2000 and 2008 non-citizen immigrants used markedly less ED services compared to US citizens, regardless of their nation of origin. We also found that demographic and healthcare need profiles contributed to the divergence in use patterns between groups. A less restrictive healthcare policy environment can potentially contribute to lower population disease burden and greater efficiencies in the US health care system.
Taking stock of herbicide‐resistant crops ten years after introduction

Since transgenic, bromoxynil-resistant cotton and glufosinate-resistant canola were introduced in 1995, planting of transgenic herbicide-resistant crops has grown substantially, revolutionizing weed management where they have been available. Before 1995, several commercial herbicide-resistant crops were produced by biotechnology through selection for resistance in tissue culture. However, non-transgenic herbicide-resistant crops have had less commercial impact. Since the introduction of glyphosate-resistant soybean in 1996, and the subsequent introduction of other glyphosate-resistant crops, where available, they have taken a commanding share of the herbicide-resistant crop market, especially in soybean, cotton and canola. The high level of adoption of glyphosate-resistant crops by North American farmers has helped to significantly reduce the value of the remaining herbicide market. This has resulted in reduced investment in herbicide discovery, which may be problematic for addressing future weed-management problems. Introduction of herbicide-resistant crops that can be used with selective herbicides has apparently been hindered by the great success of glyphosate-resistant crops. Evolution of glyphosate-resistant weeds and movement of naturally resistant weed species into glyphosate-resistant crop fields will require increases in the use of other herbicides, but the speed with which these processes compromise the use of glyphosate alone is uncertain. The future of herbicide-resistant crops will be influenced by many factors, including alternative technologies, public opinion and weed resistance. Considering the relatively few recent approvals for field testing new herbicide-resistant crops and recent decisions not to grow glyphosate-resistant sugarbeet and wheat, the introduction and adoption of herbicide-resistant crops during the next 10 years is not likely to be as dramatic as in the past 10 years.
Analysis of exception data in a staging hierachy

This paper is an analysis of program address trace data in a demand-paged computer system with a three-level staging hierarchy. Our primary objective is to explore the data both graphically and numerically, using methods that may be useful when other data traces become available. In addition, plausible point-process type models are fit to the data. Such an approach, combining data-analytic procedures with probability modeling, should prove useful in understanding program behavior and thus will aid in the rational design of complex computer systems.
Eosinophilic oesophagitis: from the trenches to the frontline.

Idiopathic eosinophilic oesophagitis has been described throughout the world, with the exception of Africa. Although the prevalence of eosinophilic oesophagitis within the general population remains low (0.4–0.7%[1][1]), it appears to be increasing. It is unclear if this is due to increased
Fired heater versus CCGT/cogeneration cycle parameters

Initial results are given of a newly designed coal-fired, closed-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) for a cogeneration plant. The coal burning heater is the most costly unit of such a system. The interrelationship between the technical and economic feasibility of the heater and turbine parameters are discussed. 7 refs.
Adhesion of aluminum films on polyimide by the electromagnetic tensile test

The electromagnetic tensile test has been adapted to the measurement of the adhesion of thin aluminum alloy films on polyimide. The adhesion per unit area was found to be weakly dependent on linewidth for lines as small as 5 µm. Processing conditions affected the adhesion with plasma ash and annealing steps improving the adhesion. Al 4% Cu was somewhat more adherent than Al-0.5% Cu.
NF-κB Participates in the Corticotropin-releasing, Hormone-induced Regulation of the Pituitary Proopiomelanocortin Gene

Corticotropin-releasing hormone is a main regulator of mammalian stress response by stimulating pituitary proopiomelanocortin (POMC) gene expression, and thus adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) secretion, which then causes glucocorticoid release from the adrenal. In a recent study in the pituitary corticotroph cell line AtT20, oxidative stress stimulated the activity of nuclear transcription factor B (NF-κB), whereas corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) inhibited both the constitutive and the oxidative stress-induced NF-κB DNA-binding activity. To further investigate the role of NF-κB on the CRH-induced pituitary POMC gene activation, AtT20 cells were transiently transfected with a POMC-luciferase construct mutated at an NF-κB binding site. After treatment with CRH, intracellular POMC-luciferase activity was significantly higher from the stimulation observed with transfection of the parental POMC-luciferase construct. In agreement with a previous report, CRH inhibited the constitutive NF-κB DNA-binding activity in AtT20 cells, as shown by electrophoretic mobility-shift assay, as soon as within 15 min of treatment. These effects of CRH were blocked by the CRH-R1 antagonist CP154,256. Our findings provide evidence that the regulation of corticotroph NF-κB activity by CRH is related to the activation of the pituitary POMC gene and, thus, may play an important role in stress response.
The Dyeing, Finishing and Performance of Fabrics for Military Uniforms

The historical background to the evolution of fabrics for military uniforms is reviewed together with some of the dyeing and finishing problems met. Changes from subjective to objective specification requirements following developments in test methods; from direct to indirect acceptance following developments in quality assurance procedures and in procurement are commented upon. Outstanding problems are discussed and recommendations made.
INCLUSIVE PRODUCTION FROM NUCLEAR TARGETS.

Abstract The inclusive production of a particles from a nuclear target is investigated. The cross section for such a process is related to a three body scattering amplitude. Once this amplitude is known for a nucleon target it may be found for a nuclear one by an extension of Glauber's multiple scattering formalism. A comparison with data is presented for proton induced inclusive production from various nuclear targets.
Rapid extraction of secretin from plasma by XAD-2 resin and its application in the radioimmunoassay of secretin

Abstract A simple and rapid method for extraction of plasma secretin has been developed. In this method plasma was allowed to percolate through a XAD-2 resin (a copolymer of styrene and divinylbenzene) column, and secretin was eluted by acid methanol in good yield. The column extract showed little interference in the radioimmunoassay as evidenced by the superimposability of the standard curve prepared in the presence of the column extract to that prepared in the buffer alone. Furthermore, the bound-to-total ratios of radioactive secretin were not affected by the presence of column extracts of secretin-free plasma from different subjects. Using the method described, we were able to detect significant increases in plasma secretin levels in both dogs and humans following intraduodenal infusion of 0.05 n hydrochloric acid in much smaller quantities than those reported in the literature.
Steroid Hormones Act Transsynaptically within the Forebrain to Regulate Neuronal Phenotype and Song Stereotypy

Steroid sex hormones induce dramatic seasonal changes in reproductive related behaviors and their underlying neural substrates in seasonally breeding vertebrates. For example, in adult white-crowned sparrows, increased Spring photoperiod raises circulating testosterone, causing morphological and electrophysiological changes in song-control nuclei, which modify song behavior for the breeding season. We investigated how photoperiod and steroid hormones induce these changes in morphology, electrophysiology, and behavior. Neurons in a song premotor nucleus, the robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA), show increased intrinsic spontaneous firing rate and soma size when birds are in breeding condition. Using combinations of systemic and unilateral local intracerebral hormonal manipulations, we show that long-day photoperiod accelerates the effects of systemic testosterone on RA neurons via the estradiol-synthesizing enzyme aromatase (CYP19A1); these changes require inputs from the afferent song control nucleus HVC (used as a proper name) and steroid receptor activation within HVC; local coactivation of androgen and estrogen receptors (ARs and ERs, respectively) within HVC, but not RA, is sufficient to cause neuronal changes in RA; activation of ARs in RA is also permissive. Using bilateral local intracerebral hormone-receptor blockade, we found that ARs and ERs in the song-control nucleus HVC mediate systemic testosterone-induced changes in song stereotypy but not rate. This novel transsynaptic effect of gonadal steroids on activity and morphology of RA neurons is part of a concerted change in key premotor nuclei, enabling stereotyped song.
Unsteady surface pressure measurements on a slender delta wing undergoing limit cycle wing rock

An experimental investigation of slender wing limit cycle motion known as wing rock was investigated using two unique experimental systems. Dynamic roll moment measurements and visualization data on the leading edge vortices were obtained using a free to roll apparatus that incorporates an airbearing spindle. In addition, both static and unsteady surface pressure data was measured on the top and bottom surfaces of the model. To obtain the unsteady surface pressure data a new computer controller drive system was developed to accurately reproduce the free to roll time history motions. The data from these experiments include, roll angle time histories, vortex trajectory data on the position of the vortices relative to the model's surface, and surface pressure measurements as a function of roll angle when the model is stationary or undergoing a wing rock motion. The roll time history data was numerically differentiated to determine the dynamic roll moment coefficient. An analysis of these data revealed that the primary mechanism for the limit cycle behavior was a time lag in the position of the vortices normal to the wing surface.
Strain as a Moderator of the Relationship Between Parental Attachment and Delinquent Participation: A China Study

This study assesses the moderating influence of strain on the relationship between parental attachment and delinquent participation among Chinese adolescents. Drawing on survey reports of 1,866 middle-school students from Fuzhou City, China, multiple regression analyses yield results which show that the relationship between parental attachment and delinquency becomes weaker as adolescents report higher levels of status or achievement strain. Furthermore, despite reduced effect, parent–adolescent attachment continues to be inversely related to delinquency even at higher levels of achievement frustration. These results are discussed in light of China’s sociocultural setting and policy implications.