cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clarifying the Parameters of Nonacid Reflux

GH therefore, the distinc-tion between acid reﬂux and nonacid reﬂux is simply a matter of the pH, with a pH of 4 as the dividing point. Having said that, the distinction is chemically incor-rect because anything that has a pH between 4 and 7 is still acidic, albeit weakly acidic. To be precise, nonacid reﬂux should really be referred to as “weakly acidic” under these circumstances. GH however, most commonly, it causes no symptoms. G&H If there are usually no symptoms associated with nonacid reflux, how can it be detected and/or monitored? How accurate are these techniques?PK Multichannel intraluminal impedance is the only technique that reliably detects nonacid reﬂux because it does not rely on the acidity of the reﬂuxed material in order to detect it, whereas pH monitoring does. pH moni-toring is the main alternative to multichannel intraluminal impedance. Multichannel intraluminal impedance has deﬁned this whole area of nonacid reﬂux and transformed it into an issue of much discussion. We do not have any way of assessing the accuracy of multichannel intraluminal impedance because it has become the reference standard for reﬂux detection. There is no reason to think that it is not accurate, but on the other hand, there is nothing to compare it to, other than techniques that are less perfect. Thus, this technique is assumed to be reasonably accurate. The main limitation of multichannel intraluminal impedance is that we do not know how to interpret the data with any certainty because, as discussed above, there are usually no symptoms associated with nonacid reﬂux. What we are attempting to do is take patients with per-sistent problems that are thought to be reﬂux-related and use this technology to try to establish whether or not that relationship is real. Therefore, the strategy for reﬂux-symp-tom association is the main issue that continues to require validation and probably requires the most future study.
Dual-Mechanism Gas Flow Dynamics in Single- and Dual-Porosity Systems

Unconventional natural gas has been defined as pipeline quality (high BTU-content) gas produced from geologic formations that have not been exploited by the oil and gas industry due to the cost and difficulty of producing the gas. These unconventional gas resources include tight sands, geopressured aquifers, Devonian shales, and coal seams. These unconventional gas reservoirs arc characterized by low permeability and porosity characteristics which make it difficult for the gas to flow through the geologic formations towards the well. Furthermore, presence of extensive natural fracture networks, soiption phenomena, and dispersed gas bubbles complicate the performance analysis of these reservoirs because phenomenologically more complicated mechanisms control the flow dynamics.
Pathways of metabolism of thyroid hormones.

Publisher Summary This chapter explores the metabolic pathways of thyroid hormones. In vitro studies have been employed to study the nature of this peripheral regulatory mechanism and the factors that influence its activity. Apart from thyroxine (T4) and 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3), several other iodothyronines, including 3,3',5'-triiodothyronine (reverse T3, rT3), 3,3'-diiodothyronine (3,3'-T2), 3',5'-diiodothyronine (3',5'-T2), tetraiodothyroacetic acid (3'-T19 Tetrac), and Triac are also present in biological fluids. Conversion of T4 to T3 and rT3 is not a result of random monodeiodination but probably that of two parallel independent processes. T3 is the most potent catabolic thyroid hormone, suggesting that inhibition of conversion of T4 to T3 may be a defense reaction of the body in various situations where catabolism is overactive and homeostasis requires a contrary force. Conversion of T4 to T3 is enzymic in nature, and tissue sulfhydryl groups are essential for this activity. The state of fetal T3 deficiency may be caused by a relative unavailability of sulfhydryl groups rather than a deficiency of T4 outer ring monodeiodinase. Monodeiodination of rT3 and T3 to 3,3'-T2 is also enzymic in nature, and sulfhydryl groups are essential for monodeiodination of rT3. Iodothyronines are metabolized via a well-organized sequence or cascade of monodeiodinations resulting in the formation of T0. These sequences are altered considerably by several pharmacological agents. This knowledge may lead to significant improvements in the treatment of hyperthyroidism.
Perceived importance of the fun integration theory’s factors and determinants: A comparison among players, parents, and coaches:

Conceptualized by youth soccer players, parents, and coaches, the fun integration theory's FUN MAPS identify 11 fun-factors and 81 fun-determinants. The purpose of this study was to conduct a secondary analysis of those data to explore the extent to which the parents (responsible for supporting) and the coaches (tasked with delivering soccer programs) perceived importance of the factors and determinants were congruent with the players' self-reported importance. We produced pattern-match displays and go-zone displays, which are innovative, visual representations of group comparisons that are unique to concept-mapping methods, to determine the overall consensus between the groups, in addition to identifying exact points of agreement and disagreement. Results indicated congruence between parents and players was extraordinarily high (r = 0.89-0.93) and significantly more congruent than coaches and players (r = 0.75-0.84). Results also indicated consensus was significantly lower among adolescent players and coaches (r = 0.66-0.71) compared to younger players and coaches (r = 0.77-0.90). Disparities in the perceived importance of specific fun-factors and fun-determinants between groups are discussed. In addition, transformative learning theory is introduced as an immersive approach to developing fun schemas consistent with the youth athletes' fun ethos that will enable coaches to be athlete-centric when creating fun, positive sport experiences for youth.
Black Trauma in the US and the Pursuit of Human Rights: A Brief History

In the US, Black people or People of African Descent (PAD) have experienced significant oppression and hardship as a result of racist US government policies, similar to the state-sanctioned violence experienced by European Jews and Native Americans. These state-sanctioned acts led to the manifestation of historical trauma that is passed down to each successive generation. While domestic efforts at addressing the civil right issues facing PAD abound, less is known about the efforts to bring the plight of PAD in the US to the international community for redress under the umbrella of human rights. This chapter addresses the intersection of trauma and human rights for PAD in the US by shedding light on attempts to hold the US accountable for the treatment of PAD.
Application techniques of a novel hemostat in cardiac operations: HEMOBLAST.

Background Postoperative bleeding complications are associated with less favorable outcomes in cardiac surgery and contribute to excessive overall healthcare costs. HEMOBLAST (Biom'up, Lyon, France) (HB) is a novel ready-to-use hemostatic powder that consists of porcine collagen, bovine chondroitin sulfate, and human pooled plasma thrombin that may help reduce surgical bleeding. Aims The aim of this study was to describe the techniques of application for this new combination powder-based hemostat, HB, and demonstrate its use employing photographs of application methods during cardiac procedures. Materials and methods The initial 24 procedures in which HB was used at our institution included: left ventricular assist device (LVAD) insertions, lung transplants, heart transplants, aortic valve replacements, coronary artery bypass grafting, and mitral valve repair. Results Hemostasis was achieved in all cases and there were no instances of mediastinitis, sternal infections, allergic reactions, or 30-day mortality. Discussion This report describes the best methods of application of HB including use for treatment of mediastinal bleeding in a re-operative procedure in a patient on antiplatelet agents and sternal bleeding during an LVAD insertion. Proper application can facilitate excellent hemostasis using this powder. Conclusion HB is a novel powder-based multiple component hemostatic agent that promotes focal or large area hemostasis. We have presented the techniques of use that are important to the successful application of HB to facilitate hemostasis.
Immunometabolism of Phagocytes During Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection.

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) remains as a leading killer among infectious diseases worldwide. The nature of the host immune response dictates whether the initial Mtb infection is cleared or progresses toward active disease, and is ultimately determined by intricate host-pathogen interactions that are yet to be fully understood. The early immune response to infection is mediated by innate immune cells, including macrophages and neutrophils that can phagocytose Mtb and mount an antimicrobial response. However, Mtb can exploit these innate immune cells for its survival and dissemination. Recently, it has become clear that the immune response and metabolic remodeling are interconnected, which is highlighted by the rapid evolution of the interdisciplinary field of immunometabolism. It has been proposed that the net outcome to Mtb infection-clearance or chronic disease-is likely a result of combined immunologic and metabolic activities of the immune cells. Indeed, host cells activated by Mtb infection have strikingly different metabolic requirements than naive/non-infected cells. Macrophages activated by Mtb-derived molecules or upon phagocytosis acquire a phenotype similar to M1 with elevated production of pro-inflammatory molecules and rely on glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathway to meet their bioenergetic and metabolic requirements. In these macrophages, oxidative phosphorylation and fatty acid oxidation are dampened. However, the non-infected/naive, M2-type macrophages are anti-inflammatory and derive their energy from oxidative phosphorylation and fatty acid oxidation. Similar metabolic adaptations also occur in other phagocytes, including dendritic cells, neutrophils upon Mtb infection. This metabolic reprogramming of innate immune cells during Mtb infection can differentially regulate their effector functions, such as the production of cytokines and chemokines, and antimicrobial response, all of which can ultimately determine the outcome of Mtb-host interactions within the granulomas. In this review, we describe key immune cells bolstering host innate response and discuss the metabolic reprogramming in these phagocytes during Mtb infection. We focused on the major phagocytes, including macrophages, dendritic cells and neutrophils and the key regulators involved in metabolic reprogramming, such as hypoxia-inducible factor-1, mammalian target of rapamycin, the cellular myelocytomatosis, peroxisome proliferator-activator receptors, sirtuins, arginases, inducible nitric acid synthase and sphingolipids.
Distribution Network Topology Model Generation Method for Distributed Feeder Automation

Distributed feeder automation system can deal with the fault based on topology model included in intelligent distribution terminal without relying on the master station. The difference is found out between the whole network topology model of the master station and the local topology model of the intelligent distribution terminal by analyzing topology for adapting to distributed feeder automation system in intelligent distribution terminals, and comparing international standards that are used to modeling such as IEC 61968, IEC 61970, and IEC 61850. The local topology model of intelligent power distribution terminal and a system-wide topology model of master station are established by combining the local topology requirements of distributed FA system. The self-maintenance of local topology model is implemented through model transformation.
Thermal structure of the lower mantle and core

Abstract The low thermal diffusivity of Earth’s rocks and its large size signify that even today, thermal transport in the lower mantle and core are independent of that in the outer layers. This situation permits construction of thermal profiles of the deep Earth from internal constraints: namely, the two-phase metallic core follows the solidus of iron alloy, and the top of the lower mantle lies below the dry peridotite solidus. Thermal conductivity of the core is irrelevant. Without samples, mantle thermal conductivity is estimated considering data and models for dense solids, leading to “hot silicate” and “cold oxide” geotherms. Temperatures are reasonably constrained, except for the height and position of the local maximum in the lower mantle. Meteoritic values for radionuclide contents of the lower mantle are consistent with present-day temperatures and progressive melting of the core.
ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION IN ≤21 YEAR OLDS: PATELLAR VERSUS HAMSTRING TENDON AUTOGRAFTS:

Background:Bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTB) and hamstring tendon (HS) are commonly used grafts for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The optimal graft choice for ACLR remains unclear...
Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin-induced renal toxicity in retroperitoneal liposarcoma: a case report and literature review.

Doxorubicin is one of the most active drugs for sarcoma. Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) is a unique formulation of doxorubicin, which carries a more favorable toxicity profile in comparison with free doxorubicin. The main toxicity of PLD is hand–foot syndrome. Unlike free doxorubicin, PLD is unlikely to cause alopecia, nausea, myelosuppression, or cardiotoxicity. Additionally, no premedications are required. We describe the case of a 50-year-old man with advanced retroperitoneal liposarcoma who developed irreversible PLD-associated progressive renal failure requiring chronic hemodialysis due to a thrombotic microangiopathy. No cardiotoxicity was noted 84 months after he initiated PLD. This case describes a lesser known toxicity of PLD and may be a toxicity of long-term treatment with other liposomal drugs.
A Required Ophthalmology Rotation: Providing Medical Students with a Foundation in Eye-Related Diagnoses and Management

Introduction Current ophthalmologic training in medical school is inadequate in preparing medical students to handle basic eye complaints as nonophthalmology residents. Most medical students are un...
Finite discrete-element modeling of multifracture propagation in fractured reservoirs

Abstract The topology of induced fractures by hydraulic fracturing is important for well performance in unconventional low-permeability reservoirs. Natural fractures are a common feature in geological formations and are preferred failure paths during hydraulic fracturing. Therefore, the interaction of hydraulic fractures and natural fractures is fundamental to the fracture growth in fractured reservoirs. Field observations of induced fracture systems show modeling fracture complexity to be needed for improving completion design and interpreting stimulated reservoir volume. In this study, a finite discrete-element model is presented to investigate multifracture propagation in fractured reservoirs. The numerical model captures the fracture complexity including branched, stranded, and kinked fractures, as well as offset crossing of natural fractures. The results show biased fracture growth in the fractured reservoir, which demonstrates the impacts of rock heterogeneity on multifracture propagation. This work also emphasizes the control of fluid partition at the wellbore and among the intersecting fractures. Fluid partition at the wellbore is found to be a major challenge to the completion design of tight cluster spacing, which has been shown to improve production in recent years.
Reprint of: Schwann cell precursors: Where they come from and where they go.

Abstract Schwann cell precursors (SCPs) are a transient population in the embryo, closely associated with nerves along which they migrate into the periphery of the body. Long considered to be progenitors that only form Schwann cells—the myelinating cells of nerves, current evidence suggests that SCPs have much broader developmental potential. Indeed, different cell marking techniques employed over the past 20 years have identified multiple novel SCP derivatives throughout the body. It is now clear that SCPs represent a multipotent progenitor population, which also display a level of plasticity in response to injury. Moreover, they originate from multiple origins in the embryo and may reflect several distinct subpopulations in terms of molecular identity and fate. Here we review SCP origins, derivatives and plasticity in development, growth and repair.
Applications of PET/MRI in Abdominopelvic Oncology.

PET/MRI has numerous applications in abdominopelvic oncology and offers advantages over PET/CT owing to superior image coregistration and additional information gained from simultaneous MRI and mol...
Use of Selective Sequential Extraction for the Remediation of Contaminated Sediments

The interaction of contaminants with sediments is a very complex phenomenon and means are required to understand this matter more fully. To determine the speciation of metals in sediments (the distribution of elements among chemical forms or species), specific extracts are used in a process called sequential selective extraction. This method can be used to determine if heavy metals are removable by remediation techniques or to predict removal efficiencies. Sequential extraction can be employed for the evaluation of the most appropriate sediment remediation technology and for monitoring remediation procedures. A biosurfactant, rhamnolipid, was used to remove organic-bound copper and carbonate-bound zinc. Exchangeable, carbonate, reducible oxide and organic fractions are amenable to washing techniques, and residually bound contaminants are not economical or feasible to remove. This information is important in designing the most appropriate conditions for sediment washing. RESUME L’interaction des contaminants et des sediments est un phenomene tres complexe et des moyens doivent etre trouves dans le but de le comprendre plus a fond. Afin de determiner la speciation des metaux dans les sediments (la distribution des elements en termes de formes chimiques ou d’especes), des extracteurs specifiques sont utilises dans un procede appele «extraction selective specifique ». Cette methode peut etre utilisee pour determiner la possibilite d’enlever les metaux lourds par les techniques de restauration et de predire l’efficacite d’enlevement. D’autre part, l’extraction sequentielle peut etre employee pour evaluer la meilleure technologie de restauration des sediments et pour faire le suivi des procedes de restauration. Un agent tensio-actif biologique, le rhamnolipide, a ete utilise pour enlever le cuivre relie aux matieres organiques et le zinc des carbonates. Les fractions echangeables, carboniques, a oxydes reduits et organiques sont lavables alors que la fraction residuelle ne peut etre enlevee techniquement ou de facon economique. Ces informations doivent etre prises en compte lors de l’elaboration des conditions appropriees de lavage des sediments.
The Semantics of Comparatives and Other Degree Constructions

(1) It is much more important than you think it is. (1) is an example of an adjectival comparative. In it, the adjective important is flanked by more and a comparative clause headed by than. This article is a survey of recent ideas about the interpretation of comparatives, including (i) the underlying semantics based on the idea of a threshold; (ii) the interpretation of comparative clauses that include quantifiers (brighter than on many other days); (iii) remarks on differentials such as much in (1) above: what they do in the comparative and what they do elsewhere in the language; (iv) the relationship between comparatives and other Degree constructions (e.g. as important, too important); and (v) the types of phrases in which comparatives are found (adjective: tighter versus noun: more water). Given the nature and purpose of this essay, I have tried not to presuppose background in formal semantics and I have departed from standard practice in journal articles by, as much as possible, not interrupting the flow with footnotes and references. There are two appendices. The first provides more analytical detail and there I do rely on formal techniques of natural language semantics. The second covers the sources for the ideas surveyed here.
The Hot Tubb Folsom-Midland Site (41CR 10), Texas

The Hot Tubb site, located in the Monahans Dunes just off the southern High Plains of west Texas, has yielded Folsom and Midland projectile points, as well as badly fragmented and occasionally burned remains of Bison antiquus. Because these materials occur primarily on the surface of a deflation basin within an active sand dune, which also contains artifacts of later age, the Paleoindian component cannot be easily isolated, nor have attempts to determine its radiocarbon age been successful. Nonetheless, the distribution and density of the bone and diagnostic Folsom material indicate there is spatialandpossibly stratigraphic integrity to this component, which makes it possible to discern where and what Paleoindian activity may have occurred on site.We infer this was a small Folsom-age bison kill and processing locality of an estimated six animals. The lithic assemblage is marked by intensive reworking and even refluting of projectile points, suggesting that the supply of stone, originally acquired at sourc...
Nonlinear generation of ultrashort infrared pulses

Wavelength-tunable ultrashort laser pulses in the picosecond and femtosecond time range have become readily available and have found wide ranges of applications. This has been largely due to the development of broad-band tunable laser sources and powerful pumping sources. The technology of ultrashort pulse generation has become highly developed, but most of the development has been concentrated in the visible and near infrared spectral ranges of wavelengths shorter than 2 /spl mu/m. In the broad infrared spectral range, picosecond and femtosecond laser pulses have not been so readily available except for a few specific wavelengths. The primary difficulty has been the lack of suitable laser medium in the infrared spectral range. This is particularly true when ultrashort and wavelength-tunable laser pulses are sought for. This difficulty can be circumvented by employing nonlinear frequency conversion techniques. An optical parametric oscillator (OPO) with a resonant cavity can be synchronously pumped for efficient frequency conversion. The general characteristics and the current development of synchronously pumped OPO's for efficient generation of picosecond and femtosecond wavelength-tunable infrared pulses is discussed.
Regulation by insulin of phosphatidylinositol 3'-kinase bound to alpha- and beta-isoforms of p85 regulatory subunit

The roles of the alpha- and beta-isoforms of phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3'-kinase p85 regulatory subunit were studied with isoform-specific antisera in three model systems in which the insulin receptor mediates rapid phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1). Insulin receptor signaling stimulated the association of IRS-1 with p85 alpha protein, and p85 alpha-associated PI 3-kinase activity in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, and in transfected Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO-T) and COS-1 cells expressing high levels of human insulin receptors. While not detectable in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, the p85 beta isoform was also found to associate with IRS-1 in response to insulin receptor activation in COS-1 and CHO-T cells. However, selective immunoprecipitation of p85 beta from unstimulated COS-1 or CHO-T cell lysates was accompanied by higher levels of PI 3-kinase activity than that associated with p85 alpha. Remarkably, the large stimulation of PI 3-kinase activity associated with p85 alpha (7.8 +/- 2.0-fold, n = 6) in insulin-treated CHO-T cells was not observed in p85 beta immunoprecipitates (1.8 +/- 0.6-fold, n = 6), and in COS-1 cells p85 beta-associated PI 3-kinase activity was completely insensitive to stimulation by the insulin receptor. These data suggest the novel hypothesis that binding of p85 beta to IRS-1 complexes in COS-1 and CHO-T cells does not mediate marked activation of PI 3-kinase activity as does p85 alpha.
Chapter 6 Semi-empirical simulations of carbon nanotube properties under electronic perturbations

Publisher Summary Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are tube-shaped nanostructures consisting of coaxial graphene cylinders, which usually measure a few nanometers in diameter and up to microns in length. This chapter reviews the basics of CNTs and describes the self-consistent tight-binding (TB) formalism. The chapter presents the application of the TB model to investigate the electronic properties of CNTs, both in an infinite periodic system and in a finite-size system. The possibility of metal–semiconductor transitions (MSTs) in metallic nanotubes is discussed under angular perturbations. With the aid of group theory techniques and the analytical power of the TB derivation, the selection rules are established for subband coupling and the magnitude of band gap openings as well as the Fermi velocity renormalization near the Fermi level is estimated. The chapter discusses an effective mechanism to enhance the MST by a combination of different forms of perturbations. The importance of the nanotube polarization effect and atomic partial charges in determining the energetics of the system are also reviewed.
Dewey's Contribution to an American Hubris: Philosophy of Democracy, Education, and War

For over a century, John Dewey has been beloved by progressive educators. In recent decades, he has become central in a renewed interest in classical pragmatism; today he is a forefather to development of a vibrant neo-pragmatism by an international community of scholars. Biographically, that Dewey was a fallible human being has always been to his credit but that he appeared to “change ideological stripes” over World War I has not been so. Critics have pondered this decision; in these assessments, character of person and philosophy have received attention, although no one has yet painted him with the brush of hubris. The thesis of this essay is that Dewey contributed to an American hubris that began in the progressive era of the First World War and that has continued. This hubris has constituted an American nation as militaristic, as “the” world power, superior in the belief that it possesses a particular democratic way of life that all others ought to follow.
GASEOUS FUEL UTILIZATION IN A LIGHT-DUTY DIESEL ENGINE

Natural gas and propane were evaluated with reference to a certified DF-2 control fuel for use in a light-duty IDI Diesel engine. The fuels were compared on the bases of performance, combustion characteristics, gas-phase emissions, and particulate emissions. The biological activity of the soluble organic fraction (SOF) of the particulate emissions was assessed using the Ames Salmonella typhimurium TA98 test. Aldehyde emissions were measured using the DNPH-GC method. The methane fraction of the total hydrocarbon emissions was measured for the natural gas fumigation and, correspondingly, the methane, ethane, propane, and propylene fractions were measured for propane operation. The engine could not be run when fueled with only natural gas or propane. At light engine loads, maximum fumigant energy input rates in excess of 85% of the total energy input rate were obtained for natural gas fumigation, while only 75% of the total could be supplied through propane fumigation. At full load, these percentages decreased to 47% and 29%, respectively. Performance and the gas-phase emissions in general did not change appreciably with the introduction of gaseous fumigants at the full-load conditions.
Abstract 14060: Syndesomes: Novel Therapeutics for Chronic Ulcers and Peripheral Ischemia

Introduction: Peripheral arterial disease patients often suffer from ischemia and chronic non-healing ulcers. Our previous studies showed a dramatic reduction in syndecan-4 protein in the muscle of obese diabetic mice. Reduction of syndecan-4 (co-receptor for FGF-2) suggests a resistance to FGF-2 stimulation in diseased state. Here, we demonstrate a novel strategy to address the problem by delivering the missing syndecan-4 and FGF-2 in a liposomal formulation. Hypothesis: Delivering the missing syndecan-4 would improve the therapeutic potential of FGF-2 for treating both ischemia and wounds in a diseased state. Methods: Treatments were microencapsulated in a 4% alginate as microspheres or discs. An ob/ob mouse model with 10 weeks of high fat diet was used to recapitulate the diseased condition. Ischemia was created in mice through femoral artery ligation and alginate microspheres were placed at the incision site. Blood perfusion in the feet was monitored using laser speckle contrast imaging. Excisional wo...
Endophenotypes in the personality disorders

The identification of endophenotypes in the personality disorders may provide a basis for the identification of underlying genotypes that influence the traits and dimensions of the personality disorders, as well as susceptibility to major psychiatric illnesses. Clinical dimensions of personality disorders that lend themselves to the study of corresponding endophenotypes include affective instability impulsiwity aggression, emotional information processing, cognitive disorganization, social deficits, and psychosis. For example, the propensity to aggression can be evaluated by psychometric measures, interview, laboratory paradigms, neurochemical imaging, and pharmacological studies. These suggest that aggression is a measurable trait that may be related to reduced serotonergic activity. Hyperresponsiveness of amygdala and other limbic structures may be related to affective instability, while structural and functional brain alterations underlie the cognitive disorganization in psychoticlike symptoms of schizotypal personality disorder. Thus, an endophenotypic approach not only provides clues to underlying candidate genes contributing to these behavioral dimensions, but may also point the way to a better understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms.
VLSI implementation of pulse coded winner take all networks

A VLSI implementation of a pulse coded winner-take-all network is presented. The pulse coded winner-take-all network uses a single inhibition bus to implement lateral inhibition. One advantage of the pulse coded winner-take-all is that it has a wiring complexity of O(n). This is in contrast with the standard winner-take-all whose wiring complexity is of O(n/sup 2/). The pulse coded version also has the advantage of preserving the relative magnitude of the winning neuron's incoming signals. Experimental results are presented. >
Using AutoCAD for descriptive geometry exercises in undergraduate structural geology

Abstract The exercises in descriptive geometry typically utilized in undergraduate structural geology courses are quickly and easily solved using the computer drafting program AutoCAD. The key to efficient use of AutoCAD for descriptive geometry involves taking advantage of User Coordinate Systems, alternative angle conventions, relative coordinates, and other aspects of AutoCAD that may not be familiar to the beginning user. A summary of these features and an illustration of their application to the creation of structure contours for a planar dipping bed provides the background necessary to solve other problems in descriptive geometry with the computer. The ease of the computer constructions reduces frustration for the student and provides more time to think about the principles of the problems.
Emerging U.S. Climate Policy: Where We are and How We Got Here

After eight years of non-engagement, the new administration and the U.S. Congress, led by a majority in the President’s party, are rapidly developing climate policy legislation. This paper summarizes past efforts to establish a national climate policy in the United States as well as the major forces influencing the current debate. While this debate is largely shaped by domestic considerations, it takes place as the international community moves to agree on a post-Kyoto policy regime in Copenhagen next December. Whether the United States is willing to take strong action will significantly influence the actions of other nations.N.B. This paper is being submitted in the midst of a dynamic legislative process. It ends with what the authors know now, but much will happen in the next three months. We will continue to follow these developments closely as to present the workshop with the most up-to-date account of legislative activity in the United States.
Effect of Mg2+ and ATP on Depolarization-Induced Ca2+ Release in Isolated Triads

The effect of different free Mg2+ and ATP concentrations on depolarization-induced Ca2+ release in isolated skeletal muscle triadic vesicles was examined by simultaneously monitoring direct effects...
A cluster of four receptor-like genes resides in the Vf locus that confers resistance to apple scab disease

The Vf locus, derived from the crabapple species Malus floribunda 821, confers resistance to five races of the fungal pathogen Venturia inaequalis , the causal agent of apple scab disease. In our previous research, the Vf locus was restricted to a BAC contig of ∼290 kb covered by five overlapping BAC clones. Here, we report on cloning of the resistance gene(s) present in the Vf BAC contig using a highly reliable and straightforward approach. This approach relies on hybridization of labeled cDNAs to amplified inserts of subclones derived from BAC inserts, followed by recovery of full-size transcripts by rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). A cluster of four resistance paralogs ( Vfa1, Vfa2, Vfa3 , and Vfa4 ) was identified in the Vf locus. Vfa1, Vfa2 and Vfa4 had no introns and are predicted to encode proteins characterized with extracellular leucine-rich repeats (LRRs) and transmembrane (TM) domains. However, Vfa3 contains an insertion of 780 bp at the end of the LRR motif, resulting in multiple truncated transcripts. Comparison of Vfa1, Vfa2 , and Vfa4 paralogs revealed a high degree of overall homology in their deduced amino acid sequences, while divergences were mainly restricted within LRR domains, including variable LRR units, numerous amino acid substitutions, and several residue deletions/duplications. Differential expression profiles among the four paralogs were observed during leaf development. Vfa1, Vfa2 , and Vfa3 were active in immature leaves, but slightly expressed in mature leaves, while Vfa4 was active in immature leaves and was highly expressed in mature leaves.
IDENTIFYING CLUMSY AUTOMATION AT THE MACRO LEVEL: DEVELOPMENT OF A TOOL TO ESTIMATE SHIP STAFFING REQUIREMENTS.

Automation promises increased operating efficiency and suggests the opportunity to reduce the number of people required to operate commercial ships safely; however, clumsy automation may degrade safety and performance, rather than enhance it. This paper distinguishes between clumsy automation at the macro level and clumsy automation at the micro level and discusses macro level issues. Specifically, macro level clumsy automation refers to the failure to consider the broad implications of automation induced crew reductions. Clumsy automation may reduce workload and facilitate crew reductions during routine sailing, but these crew reductions may leave the vessel more vulnerable to unacceptable workload peaks during unusual and emergency situations (fires, unscheduled maintenance, rough seas, reduced visibility). In these situations, tasks not accommodated by the automation may overwhelm a crew that has been reduced by the introduction of automation. Currently, no systematic procedure exists to estimate the c...
Importance of Device Evaluation for Point-of-Care Prothrombin Time International Normalized Ratio Testing Programs

OBJECTIVE To determine the accuracy of 2 commercially available point-of-care devices relative to plasma international normalized ratio (INR) values. PATIENTS AND METHODS Point-of-care INR testing was performed with the CoaguChek and ProTime 3 devices in consecutive patients attending an anticoagulation clinic between June 18, 2003, and August 6, 2003. Results were compared with plasma INRs using a sensitive thromboplastin (International Sensitivity Index, 1.0). RESULTS Ninety-four patients agreed to participate in the study. Relative to the plasma INR, values were in agreement ±0.4 INR unit 82% and 39% of the time for the CoaguChek and ProTime 3 devices, respectively. The mean ± SD CoaguChek INRs were 0.2±0.31 unit lower, whereas ProTime 3 INRs were 0.8±0.68 unit higher than plasma INR values. Treatment decisions based on these data would have resulted in inappropriate dose adjustments 10% and 22% of the time for these 2 respective devices. Correlation with plasma was greater for the CoaguChek ( r 2 =0.90) compared with the ProTime 3 device ( r 2 =0.73). CONCLUSIONS Optimal warfarin treatment requires accurate measurement of the INR. The choice of a point-of-care device for INR management depends on the reliability of INR data generated by the device.
Can imitation explain dialect origins

Abstract Imitation is one of the central processes underlying learning. Although the mechanisms of imitation at the individual level have received considerable attention, the population effects of imitative behavior have scarcely been investigated. In this paper I address the problem of self-organization at the population level emerging from imitative behavior between individuals. The model considered is a modification of that developed by Durrett and Levin [Durrett, R., Levin, S.A., 2005. Can stable social groups be maintained by homophilous imitation alone? J. Econ. Behav. Organ. 57, 267–286] in investigation of the coexistence of social groups. I modified the previous model in order to approach it in describing not only human societies but also animal populations with simpler cultures. In contrast with the other studies, I do not assume any payoffs related to imitation behavior and the existence of social rank. Individuals are assumed to be of equal rank and to accept opinions of others in proportion to their similarity (homophilous imitation). The symmetrical structure of interactions induces random drift and development of stable self-organized social groups in both homogeneous and spatially distributed societies. This type of self-organization may be widely distributed in natural systems, where imitative behavior takes place. In particular, it can be involved in origins of dialects and ring species.
Terpolymers. II. Mechanical properties and transition temperatures of terpolymers of vinyl stearate, vinyl acetate, and vinyl chloride

Vinyl stearate was studied as a major internal plasticizer in terpolymers containing vinyl acetate and vinyl chloride. The terpolymers were prepared by systematically replacing vinyl acetate by close increments of vinyl stearate starting with combinations of vinyl acetate and vinyl chloride, in increments, over all compositions. For comparison of properties, a complete range of copolymers of vinyl stearate and vinyl chloride, as well as mixtures of poly(vinyl chloride) and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DOP) were also made. The external plasticizer was more efficient in reducing the glass temperature than was vinyl stearate. The decline in Tg with weight fraction of plasticizer was linear for the copolymers and terpolymers but concave downward with the liquid diluent. The linear decline was shown to involve mere additivity of the free volume contributed by each side-chain methylene (or methyl) group in both vinyl esters to reducing Tg. The mechanism of the diluent system was more complex. However, the magnitude of the reduction of tensile modulus at a given weight fraction of DOP could be equaled or exceeded by the same amount of vinyl stearate, by increasing the vinyl acetate content of the base copolymer to 40 mole-% or more. Unfortunately, the ultimate strengths and elongations of internally plasticized systems were reduced more than those of the mixtures at comparable compositions. Vinyl stearate was found to markedly retard photolytic degradation compared to both vinyl acetate and the external plasticizer in unstabilized samples having nearly the same thermal treatment. The effect was greater than could be ascribed to dilution by the long alkyl group. The production of a stearoyl radical more stable than the radicals initiating dehydrochlorination is suggested as a possible mechanism.
Punishing and atoning: a new critique of penal substitution

The doctrine of penal substitution claims that it was good (or required) for God to punish in response to human sin, and that Christ received this punishment in our stead. I argue that this doctrine’s central factual claim—that Christ was punished by God—is mistaken. In order to punish someone, one must at least believe the recipient is responsible for an offense. But God surely did not believe the innocent Christ was responsible for an offense, let alone the offense of human sin. So, the central factual claim is mistaken. In the final section, I show that this critique of penal substitution does not apply to the closely-related Anselmian satisfaction theory.
Stability of $$ {\text{SrCe}}_{{0.9}} {\text{Eu}}_{{0.1}} {\text{O}}_{{3 - \delta }} $$ and $$ {\text{SrZr}}_{{0.2}} {\text{Ce}}_{{0.7}} {\text{Eu}}_{{0.1}} {\text{O}}_{{3 - \delta }} $$ under H2 atmospheres

Previous H2 permeation tests showed a degradation of H2 permeation flux with time. To understand the cause of degradation and develop a solution, the stability of $$ {\text{SrCe}}_{{0.9}} {\text{Eu}}_{{0.1}} {\text{O}}_{{3 - \delta }} $$ and $$ {\text{SrZr}}_{{0.2}} {\text{Ce}}_{{0.7}} {\text{Eu}}_{{0.1}} {\text{O}}_{{3 - \delta }} $$ samples were studied under dry and wet H2 atmospheres. Total conductivity of $$ {\text{SrCe}}_{{0.9}} {\text{Eu}}_{{0.1}} {\text{O}}_{{3 - \delta }} $$ increased with time in dry H2. The X-ray diffraction pattern of $$ {\text{SrCe}}_{{0.9}} {\text{Eu}}_{{0.1}} {\text{O}}_{{3 - \delta }} $$ after dry hydrogen atmosphere heat treatments show CeO2 peaks indicating that $$ {\text{SrCe}}_{{0.9}} {\text{Eu}}_{{0.1}} {\text{O}}_{{3 - \delta }} $$ decomposes under dry H2 atmospheres; scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses prove that decomposition proceeded along the grain boundaries. $$ {\text{SrZr}}_{{0.2}} {\text{Ce}}_{{0.7}} {\text{Eu}}_{{0.1}} {\text{O}}_{{3 - \delta }} $$ was investigated and demonstrated greater stability under dry hydrogen atmospheres. However, Zr substitution results in a tradeoff with electrical properties.
Transonic flow solutions using a composite velocity procedure for potential, Euler and RNS equations

Solutions for transonic viscous and inviscid flows using a composite velocity procedure are presented. The velocity components of the compressible flow equations are written in terms of a multiplicative composite consisting of a viscous or rotational velocity and an inviscid, irrotational, potential-like function. This provides for an efficient solution procedure that is locally representative of both asymptotic inviscid and boundary layer theories. A modified conservative form of the axial momentum equation that is required to obtain rotational solutions in the inviscid region is presented and a combined conservation/nonconservation form is applied for evaluation of the reduced Navier-Stokes (RNS), Euler and potential equations. A variety of results is presented and the effects of the approximations on entropy production, shock capturing, and viscous interaction are discussed.
A fine-grained anatomical analysis of the role of the rat suprachiasmatic nucleus in circadian rhythms of feeding and drinking

Abstract Recent experiments have suggested that the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) represent a neural timekeeper responsible for the maintenance of circadian rhythms of sleeping, drinking, general activity, plasma corticosterone, and pinealN-acetyltransferase. A rigorous evaluation of this proposal has been hampered, however, by the fact that past experiments have employed lesions many times larger than the volume of the SCN. To test the hypothesis that the SCN, as such, are necessary for certain circadian rhythms, the present study examined periodic variations in feeding and drinking before and after small (i.e. median size: 75% of total SCN volume) radiofrequency lesions and discrete knife cuts in the area of the SCN. The two behaviors were monitored in 120 male rats over a 7-week period. The animal room, kept at a constant temperature, was on a 12:12 light-dark cycle. Eating and drinking data were grouped in 6 four-hour time bins per day and analyzed using both autocorrelation coefficients and light-dark ratios. Brain-damaged animals were compared with sham-operated controls and blinded rats. Total damage to the suprachiasmatic nuclei, with little insult to adjacent areas (e.g. tractus infundibularis, supraoptic commissures. optic chiasm, area anterior to the SCN), was sufficient to eliminate circadian rhythms of both feeding and drinking. Conversely, lesions or knife cuts anterior, ventral or lateral to the SCN had little effect on the circadian rhythms. Damage directly posterior to the SCN abolished the circadian rhythms, probably by destroying efferents of the SCN. Loss of rhythms was sometimes seen with less than total destruction of the SCN. Rats with partial damage of the SCN showed a decrease in the autocorrelation coefficient describing their circadian rhythm. A computer-assisted procedure compared the three-dimensional reconstruction of each lesion with the circadian rhythm indicators, autocorrelation coefficients, and confirmed that the SCN and their immediate surround were necessary for the manifestation of circadian rhythms. Destruction of at least 50% of the SCN was sometimes associated with the appearance of a significant 8-h ultradian rhythm. This ultradian rhythm was not seen in any sham-operated control or blinded rat. The findings of the present study lend strong support to earlier suggestions that the SCN per se represent a critical area necessary for manifestation of certain circadian rhythms.
Synthesis dependent core level binding energy shift in the oxidation state of platinum coated on ceria–titania and its effect on catalytic decomposition of methanol

Abstract Synergistic interaction of catalyst and support has attracted the interest of the catalytic community for several decades. The decomposition/oxidation of alcohols for the production of hydrogen as a source of fuel requires such support catalyst interaction. Recent studies have suggested the active role of oxide based supports on the catalytic ability of noble metals such as gold, platinum and palladium. Herein, we report the effect of synthesis technique on the catalytic activity of platinum coated on mixed ceria–titania support system. Wet impregnation technique followed by calcination was compared with the chemical reduction of platinum during the coating over oxide support. Methanol decomposition studied using an in-house built catalytic reactor coupled to a mass spectrometer showed that catalyst prepared by thermal reduction of platinum demonstrated better catalytic ability than the catalyst prepared by chemical reduction of platinum. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the size of both platinum and ceria–titania particles remained unchanged, while the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) revealed that the oxidation state of platinum was modified by different coating procedures. A shift in the core level binding energy of the Pt 4 f towards lower binding energy was observed with chemical reduction. Based on the XPS data it was found that platinum (on ceria–titania supports) in mixed oxidation state outperformed the Pt in reduced metallic state. Results from catalysis and in situ Fourier transform infra red spectroscopy are presented and discussed.