cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Economic deterrence: The courts' role in reducing transfusion-AIDS risk

The major reason for the existence of public agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is the provision of societal protection. The scientific basis for resource allocation to and by these programs is found in the economic theory of cost-benefit (CB) analysis. This theory tells us that an efficient allocation is assured when society's willingness to pay for reducing risk is compared with the cost of obtaining these reductions. Unfortunately, many of these agencies, because of congressional mandates or other internal reasons, either do not conduct CB studies or, if they do, they do not measure benefits and costs at their true levels [Van Houtven and Cropper, Resources, Winter 1994]. As a fail-safe position, the courts have been charged with providing a deterrence backup through the availability of tort litigation. An example of a regulatory area relying on agency and judicial oversight has been the establishment of safety protocols to insure that blood products are free from transmittable diseases. Despite the obvious value to the public of insuring a safe blood supply, neither the FDA nor the courts have fully utilized the arsenal of economic tools available to them to assure this end. A major case in point is the spread of the HIV virus. In discussing the FDA's decision in 1989 not to license the HIV-antigen test which could have identified additional HIV-contaminated blood, one official noted [Solomon, Plasmapheresis, October 1989, p. 242] that "in reaching these conclusions, the agency made no use of cost-benefit analysis as cost is not a component of safety or efficacy assessments." This approach by the FDA, in conjunction with the acceptance by the courts of an argument that initially shielded the blood industry from strict liability in instances of transmission-borne disease, resulted in a market failure that these researchers believe is at least partially responsible for the currently identified 6,000 cases of transfusion-associated AIDS (TA-AIDS) in this country. It is the authors' contention that the correct application of the existing economic theory could have significantly lessened the risk to the public of TA-AIDS. Given that HIV is not tikely to be the last blood-borne virus that will arise to threaten national health, it is essential that a preventative framework based on sound, economic principles be instituted to avoid the possible reccurrence of this episode. A key element in this program must be the deterrence incentives provided by the courts through the assignment of pecuniary penalties. In an attempt to measure this deterrence effect, the authors are currently engaged in an analysis of court-awarded damages stemming from the recent relaxation of the blood-shield defense. This research is an extension of a recent costbenefit study of the FDA-sanctioned testing protocol [Gelles, Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, Summer 1993] and Eckert's examination of the implications of eliminating the laws which have protected the blood industry from strict liability [San Diego LawReview, Spring 1992].
A Study of User Interface Aids for Model-Oriented Decision Support Systems

The growing importance of DSS for both strategy evaluation and end user computing increases the need to provide research-based guidance for the design of user interface aids. This research study addresses the common belief that greater flexibility and choice in software aids will promote improved user performance. For model-based decision support systems, the effects of user vs. system-guided model manipulation, variable vs. exception-based report content, and display of incremental changes vs. actual outcomes on strategy formulation were investigated in a laboratory experiment with 46 undergraduate business students. The findings suggest that a system-guided or a more structured model manipulation strategy and the display of incremental changes significantly improve performance. Thus, for this task context, evidence is presented which runs counter to popular beliefs.
Macro-Policy Goals in the Postwar Period: Comment

In a recent article in this Journal,' Ann Friedlaender reverses the normative structure of Henri Theil's theory of optimal government policy making2 in an attempt to reveal empirically the macro-policy preferences of the Eisenhower and Kennedy-Johnson administrations. Because the results are "postulated on a correct identification of the government's welfare function, constrained by a correct model of the economy, and a correct perception of the correct model," 3 she stresses the tentative nature of the conclusions. Nevertheless, the method appears promising, in part because the conclusions corroborate and quantify the presumption "that the Kennedy-Johnson administration placed relatively more weight on full employment and the trade balance than did the Eisenhower administration." 4 A more surprising and, in our opinion, unfounded conclusion is that the "analysis . . . suggest [s] that [the government's] decisionmaking period does not exceed one quarter (although its time horizon is probably longer than one quarter)." 5 In this note we show that the methodology upon which Friedlaender bases her rejection of the dynamic (two-quarter) welfare function in favor of a static (one-quarter) function is incorrect and that this rejection, in the context of her estimation procedure, leads to unreliable preference function parameter estimates. In order to demonstrate the methodological error involved in Friedlaender's rejection of the multiperiod horizon, we must examine the more detailed study,6 referred to by the author in note 5,7 in which she presents the evidence for her conclusions. The empirical basis for her choice of horizon are two sets of time series regressions derived from the Theil framework.
Effects of high altitude exposure on the lungs of young rats

Abstract Month-old male rats were exposed in a hypobaric chamber to a simulated altitude of 4200 m (Pb = 450 mm Hg). After 20–21 days, exposed animals had significantly greater lung volumes and alveolar surface areas than controls. Animals sacrificed after 7 days of exposure had lungs that were abnormally heavy relative to their volume; this increase in lung density was due to an increase in non-blood lung water, presumably as edema fluid. After 20–21 days, lung density and water content had returned essentially to normal. The volume of blood remaining in the lungs after removal from the animal was not influenced by high altitude exposure. The findings indicate that young rats exposed to high altitude undergo an initial period of mild pulmonary edema; during this period the rate of alveolar development is probably not increased above normal. With continued exposure, the edema subsides and alveolar proliferation occurs at a faster rate than in control animals. This results eventually in increased lung volumes and alveolar surface areas in high altitude animals, a change which probably has adaptive significance.
An Examination of Climbing Performance and its Relationship to Perceived Abilities and Experience among Boulderers

The primary purpose of this study was to examine the performance of â€œboulderersâ€ as it relates to one's perceived abilities and experience in an effort to add to the body of climbing literature. Data were collected in early 2009 adjacent to an indoor climbing wall where subjects were asked to complete an online survey before participating in three bouldering problems (i.e., marked climbing routes). Some of the strongest positive correlations (p < .05) linked performance to perceived level of bouldering, perceived bouldering ability and shape, and level of problem completed previously. Other findings positively linked types of hand strength and bouldering experience to performance. The results suggest that perceptions associated with bouldering ability and experiences are reflected in performance. Given the limitations of this study, future research should expand the sample size and include addi- tional measures such as motives for bouldering to provide additional insight into the climbing experience.
Role of the electrical double layer in particle deposition by convective diffusion

Abstract A theoretical analysis is presented to describe the deposition of Brownian particles which interact with collectors through an attractive-repulsive potential. When the interactions are confined sufficiently near the collector surface, it is shown that the process is equivalent to ordinary convective diffusion in the bulk with a first-order surface reaction at the collector; a formula for the surface reaction coefficient is derived in terms of the net interaction potential. Large Peclet solutions appropriate to hydrocolloid collection by spheres and cylinders with first-order surface reaction are obtained and available solutions are discussed. The ratio of overall deposition to deposition under diffusion control proves to be a function of a single dimensionless parameter. At extreme values of this parameter collection becomes surface reaction controlled or diffusion controlled.
Beneficial Moral Hazard and the Theory of the Second Best

This article examines the welfare consequences of moral hazard, and brings together several arguments suggesting that, in many cases, the additional consumption associated with health insurance could be welfare enhancing. Since conditions for maximum economic efficiency fail to hold in the market for medical care, the theory of the second best is useful. We focus on three efficiency-related reasons why insurance-induced consumption may improve welfare: 1) insurance can offset market power; 2) insurance can remedy some externalities; and 3) insurance can mitigate problems that are associated with misinformation and result in the underutilization of many types of care. These arguments strengthen the case for expanding coverage.
More on injections into function spaces over ordinals

Abstract To formulate our main result let τ be an ordinal, X a subspace of some ordinal, and M a non-trivial metric space. We prove that if C p ( X , M ) admits a continuous injection into C p ( τ , M ) then X ¯ ∖ X is hereditarily paracompact.
Heart sarcolemmal Ca2+ transport in endotoxin shock: II. Mechanism of impairment in ATP-dependent Ca2+ transport.

The role of the phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of sarcolemma and that of the alteration of membrane lipids in the endotoxin-induced impairment of the ATP-dependent Ca2+ transport in canine cardiac sarcolemma were investigated. The results indicate that the ATP-dependent Ca2+ transport in canine cardiac sarcolemma was decreased by 30–35% 4h after endotoxin administration. Phosphorylation of sarcolemma by the catalytic subunit of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase or calmodulin stimulated ATP-dependent Ca2+ transport in both groups, however, the phosphorylation-stimulated activities remained significantly lower in endotoxic animals. Dephosphorylation of sarcolemma decreased ATP-dependent Ca2+ transport in both groups, yet, the time required to reach maximal dephosphorylation was reduced from 120 to 90 min 4 h post-endotoxin. Analysis of sarcolemmal membranes reveals that phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine contents were decreased while their respective lysophosphatide levels were increased significantly after endotoxin injection. Digestion of control heart sarcolemma with phospholipase A2 inhibited Ca2+ transport and the inhibition was reversible by phosphatidylcholine. The inhibition caused by the in vivo administration of endotoxin was completely reversible by the addition of phosphatidylcholine. Based on these data, it is concluded that endotoxin administration impairs ATP-dependent Ca2+ transport in canine cardiac sarcolemma and that the impairment may be due to i) a defective phosphorylation of sarcolemma; ii) a reduced number of Ca2+ pumps; iii) an accelerated dephosphorylation of sarcolemma; and iv) an alteration in membrane phospholipid profile in response to phospholipase A activation.
Structurally altered and transcriptionally activated rat prostate chromatin induced by androgens.

Abstract The effect of androgens on the structure and transcriptional function of rat prostate chromatin was investigated by the following studies: template activity in transcription, distribution of euchromatin and heterochromatin, titration with polylysine, thermal denaturation and circular dichroism spectra. Following a single intraperitoneal injection of testosterone to rats, the template activity of prostate chromatin, assayed in rat liver RNA polymerase (RNA nucleotidyltransferase, EC 2.7.7.6) II reaction, increased by 68% 2 h (CT 2 ) after hormone administration; while the template activities of prostate chromatins from rats receiving testosterone for 4 (CT 4 ), 6 (CT 6 ) and 12 h (CT 12 ) were slightly lower than that of the castrated control (C). Similar patterns were also observed in polylysine binding by, and distribution of euchromatin and heterochromatin in, the various prostate chromatins. The template activity of prostate chromatin in rat liver RNA polymerase II reaction was contributed exclusively by its euchromatin fraction. Furthermore, CT 2 euchromatin was also found to have the highest template activity than CT 4 , CT 6 , CT 12 and C euchromatins. Derivative melting profiles of the various chromatins all showed increased melting of DNA regions bound by nonhistone proteins with concomitant decreases in histone-bound regions of DNA. Circular dichroism spectra of these chromatins showed conformational changes in proteins, as indicated by a reduction in amplitude at 210–220 nm, for CT 2 chromatin, and increases for CT 4 , CT 6 and CT 12 chromatins when compared with the control. These results indicate that androgen action in gene activation is related to structural alterations of prostate chromatin induced by androgens.
Variations in Consumer Self-determination within US Psychiatric Advance Directives

Advance directives are legal documents that formalize consumer psychiatric care preferences. This article examines the statutes and goals of US psychiatric advance directives within the framework of consumer self-determination, a priority in national mental health reform. It seeks to distinguish between state models based on the degree that consumer rights are integrated into advance directive statutes and goals. The data set contains information from legislative statutes and goals from the 24 US states that enacted explicit psychiatric advance directive regulations prior to 2006. Researchers grouped the data into categories based on the similarities in consumer self-determination. The findings include an examination of the spectrum of consumer self-determination in US advance directive statutes along with a comparison of the gaps between intent and policy in state statutes.
Analysis of Upper Cretaceous Trace-Fossil Assemblages, U.S. Western Interior: ABSTRACT

Diversity and abundance of trace fossils in strata of the Greenhorn and Niobrara cyclothems of west-central Kansas, southern Colorado, and south-central Utah have been used to quantify trace-fossil assemblages. Recognition of assemblages is based on use of quantitative, semi-quantitative, and binary (presence-absence) data in conjunction with cluster and factor analysis. Although the character of the original burrowing infauna was a primary factor in assemblage composition, the nature of burrowed sediments and diagenesis exerted strong influence on the preserved trace-fossil record. Thus, the present composition of originally similar assemblages may differ among the several lithotypes (sandstone, shale, chalk, limestone) because of variations in depositional and diageneti processes that affected preservation of biogenic structures. It is suggested that some of the observed differences in these Upper Cretaceous trace-fossil assemblages are more apparent than real. At present, taxonomic problems relating to trace fossils hinder quantification of the Upper Cretaceous assemblages. Direct application of standard taxonomic conventions could lead to conceptual confusion because the morphology of trace fossils is controlled as much by general behavior of organisms and their specific responses to sedimentologic parameters as by body form. For example, Ophiomorpha is known to grade into Thalassinoides, some of which developed Teichichnus-like form. Furthermore, some Rhizocorallium are connected to Thalassinoides burrow systems. The first three genera could be synonymized with Rhizocorallium, which has priority. A more constructive approach involves erection of suprageneric categories, such as Rhizocorallium-group, that would express End_Page 543------------------------------ the natural relationship of many associated trace fossils. End_of_Article - Last_Page 544------------
Ten Years of Spin Hall Effect

In this short review I survey the theory of the spin Hall effect in doped semiconductors and metals in the light of recent experiments on both kinds of materials. After a brief introduction to different types of spin–orbit coupling in solids, I describe in detail the three conceptually distinct mechanisms that are known to contribute to the spin Hall effect, namely “skew-scattering”, “side-jump”, and “intrinsic mechanism”. The skew-scattering mechanism is shown to be dominant in certain clean two-dimensional semiconductors in which one component of the spin is conserved. In such systems the side-jump mechanism is sub-dominant, but universal in form, and can become dominant if the electron mobility is reduced by changing the temperature. Both skew-scattering and side-jump contributions are generally reduced by spin precession, and skew-scattering is completely suppressed in the linear Rashba model in the absence of magnetic field. Different models of spin–orbit coupling can, however, sustain an intrinsic spin Hall effect. A brief summary of the present experimental situation concludes the review.
Subclass Mapping: Identifying Common Subtypes in Independent Disease Data Sets

Whole genome expression profiles are widely used to discover molecular subtypes of diseases. A remaining challenge is to identify the correspondence or commonality of subtypes found in multiple, independent data sets generated on various platforms. While model-based supervised learning is often used to make these connections, the models can be biased to the training data set and thus miss inherent, relevant substructure in the test data. Here we describe an unsupervised subclass mapping method (SubMap), which reveals common subtypes between independent data sets. The subtypes within a data set can be determined by unsupervised clustering or given by predetermined phenotypes before applying SubMap. We define a measure of correspondence for subtypes and evaluate its significance building on our previous work on gene set enrichment analysis. The strength of the SubMap method is that it does not impose the structure of one data set upon another, but rather uses a bi-directional approach to highlight the common substructures in both. We show how this method can reveal the correspondence between several cancer-related data sets. Notably, it identifies common subtypes of breast cancer associated with estrogen receptor status, and a subgroup of lymphoma patients who share similar survival patterns, thus improving the accuracy of a clinical outcome predictor.
Health consequences of partner distress in couples coping with heart failure

Background Chronic heart failure (HF) is associated with psychologic distress for patients and their spouses. Although research indicates that a patient's distress can influence the course of illness, less is known about possible effects of a spouse's distress on the patient or of a patient's distress on the health of the spouse. Methods and Results Baseline home interviews of 60 patients with HF (43 men, 17 women) and their spouses included assessments of each partner's psychologic distress (Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25) and perceived general health (Short Form-36 Questionnaire), as well as severity of patients' HF symptoms. We repeated the health and HF-symptom assessments in follow-up interviews 6 months later. As hypothesized, the spouse's distress at baseline predicted an unfavorable course of patients' HF symptoms and general health over the next 6 months, independently of the patient's own baseline distress. There were no prospective effects of the patient's distress on the spouse's health, however, suggesting that partner distress had asymmetric health consequences for patients and spouses. Conclusion The results complement other evidence linking marital quality to the course of HF and highlight the importance of looking beyond the patient to improve prediction of health outcomes.
Managing and controlling computer misuse

This paper argues that many of the losses owing to computer‐related fraud could be avoided if organizations adopt a more pragmatic approach in dealing with such incidents. The paper suggests that in implementing controls, both within organizations and computer systems, a balanced approach be adopted. Such an approach should place equal emphasis on technical, formal and informal interventions. The argument is conducted by reviewing the nature of security breaches that have taken place in different parts of the world.
Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals the Virulence and Environmental Genetic Programs of Vibrio vulnificus Exposed to Host and Estuarine Conditions

Vibrio vulnificus is a natural inhabitant of estuarine waters worldwide and is of medical relevance due to its ability to cause grievous wound infections and/or fatal septicemia. Genetic polymorphisms within the virulence-correlated gene (vcg) serve as a primary feature to distinguish clinical (C-) genotypes from environmental (E-) genotypes. C-genotypes demonstrate superior survival in human serum relative to E-genotypes, and genome comparisons have allowed for the identification of several putative virulence factors that could potentially aid C-genotypes in disease progression. We used RNA sequencing to analyze the transcriptome of C-genotypes exposed to human serum relative to seawater, which revealed two divergent genetic programs under these two conditions. In human serum, cells displayed a distinct “virulence profile” in which a number of putative virulence factors were upregulated, including genes involved in intracellular signaling, substrate binding and transport, toxin and exoenzyme production, and the heat shock response. Conversely, the “environmental profile” exhibited by cells in seawater revealed upregulation of transcription factors such as rpoS, rpoN, and iscR, as well as genes involved in intracellular signaling, chemotaxis, adherence, and biofilm formation. This dichotomous genetic switch appears to be largely governed by cyclic-di-GMP signaling, and remarkably resembles the dual life-style of V. cholerae as it transitions from host to environment. Furthermore, we found a “general stress response” module, known as the stressosome, to be upregulated in seawater. This signaling system has been well characterized in Gram-positive bacteria, however its role in V. vulnificus is not clear. We examined temporal gene expression patterns of the stressosome and found it to be upregulated in natural estuarine waters indicating that this system plays a role in sensing and responding to the environment. This study advances our understanding of gene regulation in V. vulnificus, and brings to the forefront a number of previously overlooked genetic networks.
Characterization of conducting diamond films

Abstract A study has been performed to characterize conducting diamond films. Boron-doped diamond films were obtained by microwave plasma CVD on silicon and diamond and were confirmed by means of RHEED and LEELS to have diamond structures. The electrical resistivities of these films were in the range of 10° to 10 −3 Ωcm. The ratio of B 2 H 6 /CH 4 in the reactant gas determines the electrical resistivity. The activation energy for conduction in films deposited from reactant gases with a B 2 H 6 /CH 4 ratio equal to 2/1000 was found to be 0.013 eV, which is lower than the value obtained for B-doped diamond produced by means of synthesis under high pressure or by ion implantation.
The cardiovascular and respiratory effects of isoflurane-nitrous oxide anaesthesia

Nous avons etudie les effets cardio-respiratoires de l’anesthesie a l’isoflurane (Forane) associe a un melange de Protoxyde-Oxygene a 70 pour cent. Cette etude fut realisee chez huit sujets volontaires, en bonne sante, en respiration controlee (PaCO2 35-45 torr) et en respiration spontanee. Nos resultats furent compares a ceux rapportes dans d’auties etudes effectuees chez des volontaires avec usage d’isoflurane-oxygene. Sous respiration controlee, la pression arterielle moyenne etait plus elevee de 10 a 25 pour cent chez les malades recevant du Protoxyde. Sous anesthesie profonde ( 2 MAC environ ) on retrouvait une pression moyenne de 72.5 torr dans le groupe avec usage de Protoxyde, alors qu’un chiffre moyen de 46 torr etait obtenu avec usage d’Isoflurane-Oxygene. Tout comme chez les sujets endormis a llsoflurane-oxygene, nous avons observe chez nos sujets un bon maintien de la contractilite myocardique et du debit cardiaque, ceci a tous les niveaux d’anesthesie utilises, et l’on n’a pas observe d’acidose metabolique. Le debit sanguin musculaire etait de deux a quatre fois plus eleve qu’avant I’anesthesie. Des differences cardiovasculaires dans le meme sens ont ete observees chez les malades en respiration spontanee. Cependant, la presence de Protoxyde d’azote n’a pas modifie la depression respiratoire observee avec l’usage d’isoflurane-oxygene, a une profondeur de 1.5 MAC, en respiration spontanee, les PaCO2 moyens observes etaient de 58± 3 torr. avec Protoxyde et de 58± 1.4 sans Protoxyde.
Influence of computational domain boundaries on internal structure in low-porosity sphere packings

Collective rearrangement is an important class of algorithms for the computer generation of random sphere packings, especially for those of low porosity. In this paper we examine how the choice of boundary conditions affects internal packing structure. The results help to quantify the depth to which non-periodic boundaries influence internal structure. More interesting results are obtained for periodic boundary conditions, showing that for small packings, self-assembly into ordered packings is possible, even without a seed structure or undue influence from the algorithm. Furthermore, the structure depends on the shape of the periodic domain. Finally, we propose examining the transition from random to ordered packings to better characterize the random-close-packed (RCP) limit and its associated packing structures.
Climatic Influences on Autochthonous and Allochthonous Phytoplankton Blooms in a Subtropical Estuary, St. Lucie Estuary, Florida, USA

The St. Lucie Estuary, located on the southeast coast of Florida, provides an example of a subtropical ecosystem where seasonal changes in temperature are modest, but summer storms alter rainfall regimes and external inputs to the estuary from the watershed and Atlantic Ocean. The focus of this study was the response of the phytoplankton community to spatial and temporal shifts in salinity, nutrient concentration, watershed discharges, and water residence times, within the context of temporal patterns in rainfall. From a temporal perspective, both drought and flood conditions negatively impacted phytoplankton biomass potential. Prolonged drought periods were associated with reduced nutrient loads and phytoplankton inputs from the watershed and increased influence of water exchange with the Atlantic Ocean, all of which restrict biomass potential. Conversely, under flood conditions, nutrient loads were elevated, but high freshwater flushing rates in the estuary diminished water residence times and increase salinity variation, thereby restricting the buildup of phytoplankton biomass. An exception to the latter pattern was a large incursion of a cyanobacteria bloom from Lake Okeechobee via the St. Lucie Canal observed in the summer of 2005. From a spatial perspective, regional differences in water residence times, sources of watershed inputs, and the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean influenced the composition and biomass of the phytoplankton community. Long water residence times in the North Fork region of the St. Lucie Estuary provided an environment conducive to the development of blooms of autochthonous origin. Conversely, shorter residence times in the mid-estuary limit autochthonous increases in biomass, but allochthonous sources of biomass can result in bloom concentrations of phytoplankton.
Effect of fluoxetine on self-injurious behavior in the developmentally disabled: a preliminary study.

Self-injury is common in mentally retarded persons and often unresponsive to pharmacotherapy. Based on the assumption that this maladaptive behavior may be related to central nervous system serotonergic imbalance or dysfunction, an open trial with a serotonin uptake inhibitor was conducted. Twenty-one severely to profoundly mentally retarded persons with aggression and self-injurious behavior were treated with 20-40 mg of fluoxetine daily. Marked improvement occurred in 13 patients, moderate in 4, mild in 2, and no improvement in 2 patients treated for a minimum of 3 months. Positive changes occurred in the areas of self-injury, agitation, emotional lability, and aggression. Only one patient required discontinuation of the medication because of anorexia and weight loss; all other patients tolerated the drug without any significant side effects. All were concurrently taking other psychotropic medications, and no adverse drug interactions were noted. Future trials will focus on more homogeneous patient samples and on the therapeutic interactions between concurrently administered psychotropic medications. Language: en
Ultraviolet observations of cool stars. VI - L alpha and Mg II emission line profiles /and a search for flux variability/ in Arcturus

High-precision, high-resolution profiles of the L alpha and Mg II k chromospheric emission lines from Arcturus (alpha Boo) obtained with the Princeton Experimental Package aboard the Copernicus satellite are presented. Asymmetries seen in the profiles of these lines are probably intrinsic to the star, rather than the result of interstellar absorption. In contrast to previous observations of the Ca II K emission line, no evidence is found during a three-year period for variability in the profiles or in the total fluxes from these lines on time scales ranging from hours to months. Also presented is a flux profile of the O I 1302 line and flux upper limits for L beta, O VI 1032, Si III 1206, and O V 1218.
Line loss reduction with distributed energy storage systems

Conventional Optimal Power Flow (OPF) minimizes line loss snapshot by controlling generation output and transformer tap position. Distributed energy storage system (DESS) that locates close to load can provide more flexible and effective control to reduce overall line loss. A dynamic optimal power flow (DOPF) method considering energy storage units is adopted to model and analyze line loss reduction by DESS. Tests are performed to validate the DOPF model and show the effectiveness of line loss reduction by DESS.
Differentiating effect of intelligence and social status

(1959). Differentiating effect of intelligence and social status. Eugenics Quarterly: Vol. 6, International conference on differentiation in current mating and fertility trends, pp. 84-91.
Characterization of the foaming properties of lysozymes and α-lactalbumins: a structural evaluation

Abstract The foaming properties of three lysozymes (human, turkey-egg and hen-egg) and two α-lactalbumins (bovine and human) have been assessed using a micro-conductivity method. Despite the very close structural similarities between these five proteins, major differences in foaming characteristics were found. For the three lysozymes, the order of increasing foam expansion and stability was turkey
Standing wave analysis of SMB chromatography: Linear systems

The concept of standing concentration waves is introduced to derive design equations for continuous moving bed (CMB) processes. For linear isotherm systems, simple equations are derived from the analysis to link product purity and recovery to zone lengths, bed movement velocity, flow rates, column capacity factors, and mass-transfer coefficients. Once product purity, recovery and feed flow rate are specified for a given system, the zone flow rates and bed movement velocity that provide the highest throughput and the lowest solvent consumption can be determined from the solutions. In a given system, there is a trade-off between product purity and throughput. If bed volume and product purities are fixed, the longer the zone lengths, the higher the throughput. Simulations based on a linear driving force model that considers axial dispersion and lumped film and intraparticle diffusion are used to compare the column profiles and effluent histories of CMB and simulated moving bed (SMB). A numerical algorithm is introduced to allow simulation of both CMB and SMB operations using the same program. The comparison shows that the design equations derived for CMB systems are applicable to SMB systems. Finally, the standing wave solutions are used to analyze an experimental SMB system from the literature (Ching et al., 1991). Simulations agree closely with the data and the predictions of the theoretical analysis.
Expert Systems for Engineering Design

: An expert system embodies a humun expert's domain-specific knowledge and skill, acquired and refined over years of experience. A number of problems in diagnosis and engineering design can be solved by Using current expert-system techniques. This paper enumerates the main components of such problems and the steps that are taken in solving them. A few prototypical articificial intellegence systems embody techniques that can be applied to engineering problems. These are surveyed, and their relevance to components of design problems is discussed. Some expert systems in design domains are summarized, with emphasis on aspects that can illustrate wider applicability of the techniques. A number of avenues of further research are evident, and the area of engineering design offers rich opportunities for advancing the state-of-the-art in expert systems. An annotated selective bibliography is included
A statistical-dynamical climate model with a simple hydrology cycle

A zonally-averaged general circulation model is presented, and some experiments with it described. The model is based on the primitive equations of motion, except that the zonally averaged zonal wind is constrained to be in a “spherical geostrophic equilibrium” with the geopotential. The effects of the large-scale eddies on the zonally averaged flow are parameterized using a scheme based on the work of Green (1970). The solar and infrared radiation schemes allow interaction with the cloud cover predicted via a hydrology cycle. When integrated, the model produces realistic energetics and fields of momentum, temperature and relative humidity. The effects of moisture on the model circulation are examined. Its inclusion intensifies and narrows the upward branch of the Hadley cell, and generally reduces the model ZAPE. The response of the surface temperature to changes in the solar constant is reduced by moisture, especially in low latitudes. Relative humidity is found to have an inverse relationship with surface temperature, if surface albedo is fixed. However, the presence of an ice sheet reduces low level relative humidity. Implications for simple energy-balance models and climate sensitivity are discussed. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1982.tb01811.x
Sodium Diffusion in Glass: I, Single‐Alkali Silicate

The isotope effect for 22Na/24Na diffusion was measured for three 25-mol% alkali-silicate glasses. A multiple diffusion mechanism wherein the Na ions diffuse both singly (vacancy mechanism) and in pairs (interstitialcy mechanism) provided the best agreement with the experimental data. According to this tentative model, diffusion by Na ion pairs predominates at low temperatures, and the fraction of Na ions diffusing singly increases with increasing temperature. In the glasses investigated, nearly all of the Na ions diffuse singly in the vicinity of the transformation range.
An adaptive grid non-parametric approach to pharmacokinetic and dynamic (PK/PD) population models

Our NPEM (Non-Parametric Expectation Maximization) software for non-parametric PK/PD (pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic) population modeling employs the classical expectation maximization (EM) algorithm to compute a maximum-likelihood distribution on a large multi-dimensional grid. In order to achieve good resolution, a large number of grid points must be chosen, which can lead to high computational demands requiring a large-scale parallel supercomputer. We describe an improved method, called NPAG (Non-Parametric Adaptive Grid), that uses a sequence of adaptively refined grids as well as a new, state-of-the-art interior point algorithm for solving the associated maximum-likelihood problem on each successive grid. The combination of the adaptive grid strategy with the interior point algorithm is far faster than the original NPEM method. Also, NPAG requires much less memory, thus making many computations feasible on a PC or workstation that previously required supercomputer resources. Finally, the new algorithm easily and naturally accommodates the simultaneous maximum-likelihood estimation of both intra-individual and inter-individual variability, thus improving usability and removing a major limitation of the original NPEM program.
Compensatory Evolution in Response to a Novel RNA Polymerase: Orthologous Replacement of a Central Network Gene

A bacteriophage genome was forced to evolve a new system of regulation by replacing its RNA polymerase (RNAP) gene, a central component of the phage developmental pathway, with that of a relative. The experiment used the obligate lytic phage T7 and the RNAP gene of phage T3. T7 RNAP uses 17 phage promoters, which are responsible for all middle and late gene expression, DNA replication, and progeny maturation, but the enzyme has known physical contacts with only 2 other phage proteins. T3 RNAP was supplied in trans by the bacterial host to a T7 genome lacking its own RNAP gene and the phage population was continually propagated on naive bacteria throughout the adaptation. Evolution of the T3 RNAP gene was thereby prevented, and selection was for the evolution of regulatory signals throughout the phage genome. T3 RNAP transcribes from T7 promoters only at low levels, but a single mutation in the promoter confers high expression, providing a ready mechanism for reevolution of gene expression in this system. When selected for rapid growth, fitness of the engineered phage evolved from a low of 5 doublings/h to 33 doublings/h, close to the expected maximum of 37 doublings/h. However, the experiment was terminated before it could be determined accurately that fitness had reached an obvious plateau, and it is not known whether further adaptation could have resulted in complete recovery of fitness. More than 30 mutations were observed in the evolved genome, but changes were found in only 9 of the 16 promoters, and several coding changes occurred in genes with no known contacts with the RNAP. Surprisingly, the T7 genome adapted to T3 RNAP also maintained high fitness when using T7 RNAP, suggesting that the extreme incompatibility of T7 elements with T3 RNAP is not an invariant property of divergence in these expression systems.
A difference-frequency based mid-IR broadband source for surface spectroscopy of explosives

We describe a 2.8–4.4 μm tunable difference-frequency based mid-IR broadband source. With a FWHM of 170 nm centered at 3.3 μm, we have investigated the C-H stretch signatures of solid-phase trace explosives on surfaces.
Prevalence of over-the-counter and complementary medication use in the otolaryngology preoperative patient: A patient safety initiative†‡

Objectives/Hypothesis: To determine the prevalence of over-the-counter and complementary and alternative medication use in the preoperative otolaryngology patient population. Study Design: Cross-sectional survey. Methods: Data were collected from preoperative surveys given to all patients undergoing surgery by a single physician with an academic practice over a 6-month period from March to September 2010. Responses were compiled and combined with demographic information obtained from the computer-based chart system. Results: A total of 92 patients, with ages ranging from 5 to 84 years old (average, 41), completed the survey. Fifty-three (58%) patients were female, and 39 (42%) were male. Forty-two (46%) patients reported the use of nonprescription medications, and 48% reported the use of multiple medications. Of those who reported using medication, 11 (26%) were male and 31 (74%) were female. The average age of nonprescription medication users was 49 years. The most commonly reported over-the-counter medications were aspirin and ibuprofen. The most commonly reported complementary and alternative medications were green tea, fish oil, and vitamin E. Conclusions: The use of nonprescription medications in the otolaryngology preoperative population is very common, especially in the female patient. The most commonly reported medications are associated with serious potential complications, and awareness of their use is critical before the patient undergoes surgery.
Avoiding false-positive signals with nuclease-vulnerable molecular beacons in single living cells

There have been a growing number of studies where molecular beacons (MBs) are used to image RNA expression in living cells; however, the ability to make accurate measurements can be hampered by the generation of false-positive signals resulting from non-specific interactions and/or nuclease degradation. In the present study, we found that such non-specific signals only arise in the nucleus of living cells. When MBs are retained in the cytoplasmic compartment, by linking them to quantum dots (QDs), false-positive signals are reduced to marginal levels. Consequently, MB–QD conjugates were used to measure the expression of the endogenous proto-oncogene c-myc in MCF-7 breast cancer cells by quantifying the total fluorescent signal emanating from individual cells. Upon the addition of tamoxifen, measurements of MB fluorescence indicated a 71% reduction in c-myc expression, which correlated well with RT-PCR measurements. Variations in MB fluorescence resulting from instrumental fluctuations were accounted for by imaging fluorescent calibration standards on a daily basis. Further, it was established that measurements of the total fluorescent signal were not sensitive to the focal plane. Overall, these results provide evidence that accurate measurements of RNA levels can be made when MBs are retained in the cytoplasm.
The National Assembly and the abolition of guilds in France

The hesitation with which the national assembly approached the issue of guilds has long puzzled historians. After apparently abolishing them on the night of 4 August 1789, the national assembly delayed any action on guilds for eighteen months. This study examines the reasons for the tentativeness of the national assembly and the factors that ultimately led it to take action in 1791. A fear of aggravating violence in the countryside led the national assembly initially to delay action against guilds. By the time the assembly was ready to act, however, it found itself stymied by one of its own committees, which refused to bring the matter forward. The equivocation of the assembly led to unrest in towns and villages, and that unrest, along with the need of the assembly to realize the new principles it had advanced, led to a pre-emptive manoeuvre by the assembly against the obstructionist committee that resolved the anomaly of guilds in the new polity created by the national assembly.
Influence of Large-Amplitude Oscillations on Turbulent Drag

The effect of imposed large-amplitude oscillations on turbulent drag is studied. The system consists of water flow through a straight 5.08-cm pipe. The velocity gradient at the wall is measured with flush-mounted electrochemical mass-transfer probes. Newly developed numerical algorithms are used to analyze the probe performance in the presence of unsteady flows. Sinusoidal oscillations are at large enough frequencies, ω+ = 0.0138–0.0506, that a pseudo-steady-state approximation cannot be made. The ratio of the time-averaged velocity gradient at the wall, with and without oscillations, S, varies between 1.00 and 1.03, provided flow reversal does not occur. However, two experiments in which reversed flows existed at the wall for an appreciable period of time show drag reductions of 7 and 13%. Imposed nonsinusoidal oscillations are also studied for a period of favorable pressure gradient, about twice longer than that of unfavorable, and two sudden changes in the pressure gradient. Experiments at Re = 9,700 with T0 of 2.00, 2.45, and 3.46 s, and at Re = 19,200 with T0 = 3.46 give values of S = 1.04–1.08. At Re = 19,200 and T0 = 2.00, 1.50, 1.00 s, drag reductions are 10–15%. This phenomenon could be associated with the speed with which a flow adjusts to sudden changes in the pressure gradient.
Effect of Surface Roughness on Stain Resistance of Dental Resin Composites

Background: Surface quality of dental restorations is one of the important factors that determine the success of the restoration. Unfortunately, exterior discoloration is still a problem for dental resin composites. Purpose:: The purpose of the study was to investigate the influential factors on stain resistance of dental resin composites. Materials and Methods: Filtek Supreme (nanocomposite), Filtek A110 (microfilled composite), Filtek Z250 (microhybrid composite), and Filtek P60 (microhybrid composite) (all products from 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA) were tested. Thirty-six specimens per material were prepared and randomly assigned to 6 groups. The specimens in 5 groups were polished against 1,000–, 1,200–, 1,500–, 2,000–, and 2,500–grit sandpaper, respectively. The specimens in a sixth group were polished with 2,500–grit or 1,200–grit sandpaper and used as controls. Surface roughness (Ra) and gloss of the specimens were measured with a profilometer and a glossmeter, respectively. Specimens were immersed in a coffee solution (control group in distilled water) and kept in a 37°C incubator. Color was measured by a spectrophotometer at baseline, 3 days, 7 days, and 14 days, and color change (ΔE*ab) was calculated. Results: Coffee, material, Ra, and the interaction of material × Ra had statistically significant influences on the stain resistance of the dental composites tested. For most materials in coffee solution, time squared and Ra had significant effects on the discoloration. Conclusions: Coffee had a significant influence on discoloration of the dental resin composite materials tested. The different composites behaved differently in coffee solution. Discoloration increased as Ra increased for the composites tested, except with Filtek A110. The discoloration process was accelerated with time.
Conference Report: Applied Pharmaceutical Analysis 2009 Conference

The 5th annual Applied Pharmaceutical Analysis (APA) Conference recently convened in Boston, affording a unique opportunity for analytical scientists and pharmaceutical opinion leaders to exchange ideas on subjects related to drug disposition. The theme for this year’s meeting, The Role of Bioanalysis and Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion in Translational Medicine, was evident throughout the sessions. Consistent with past meetings, the sessions were grouped into three workshops representing different areas of focus: regulated bioanalysis, biotransformation and discovery. A total of 68 talks were presented at APA 2009, along with nine posters. While MS was the main analytical tool represented, several ligand-binding applications were also presented, consistent with the current industry trend towards protein biomarkers and biotherapeutics. Overall, the meeting attracted 290 attendees, which represents an 8% increase from 2008. The affiliation of attendees was as follows: pharmaceutical and...