cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Harmonizing the Heavenly and Earthly Spheres: The Fragmentation and Synthesis of Religion, Equality, and Speech in the Constitution

The relationship between government and religion is as complex a connec­tion as exists in constitutional law. In part this is due to the unique dual com­mands which the Constitution directs toward government with regard to reli­gion, the establishment clause, and the free exercise clause. In part it is due to the multidimensional nature of religion itself as a social institution and as a facet of human experience. Given the complexity of the subject, it is hardly surprising that the case law and commentary discussing the religion clauses is controversial and unset­tled. But the analytic difficulties presented by religious issues is only part of the picture. Much of the conflict in this area is understood to be as much a clash of divergent value systems as it is a battle of interpretation between two camps, those endorsing the separation of church and state and those urging an accom­modation of church and state. This Article certainly cannot claim to be value neutral in discussing the meaning of the religion clauses. The primary problem it addresses, however, is common to moderate adherents of both camps. Neither group has been able to develop a coherent doctrinal framework which can justify a middle ground posi­tion. Lacking such a foundation separationists cannot clearly account for the numerous situations in which religion and government do accommodate each other and are permitted to do so, and accommodationists are incapable of ex­plaining why religion must be separated from government in as many instances as it is and should be kept apart.
What Neuroscience May Be Able to Tell Us about Criminal Behavior and Rehabilitation

Emerging questions at the interface of law and neuroscience challenge several presumptions at the heart of the legal system. For example, under what circumstances is it a legitimate defense to claim that a brain tumor or idiosyncratic neural wiring was responsible for a behavior? Will neuroscience inform sentencing decisions by offering a better prediction of recidivism? Can novel neuroscience technologies be leveraged for new methods of rehabilitation? I will address these questions with a look toward what neuroscience may and many not be able to tell us about criminal behavior within the next decade. I will additionally cover preliminary experimental data from our novel strategy for real-time functional neuroimaging-based rehabilitation, which I will discuss on both scientific and ethical grounds. Finally, I will touch on Baylor College of Medicine’s Initiative on Neuroscience and Law (www.NeuLaw.org), which brings together a unique collaboration of neurobiologists, legal scholars, and policy makers, with the goal of building modern, evidence-based policy.
High-dose dexmedetomidine increases the opioid-free interval and decreases opioid requirement after tonsillectomy in children.

Purpose Dexmedetomidine, a selective α2 adrenoreceptor agonist, has analgesic and sedative properties, minimal impact on respiratory parameters, and reportedly decreases analgesic requirements after surgery. Given its pharmacodynamic profile, dexmedetomidine might have a role for postoperative pain control in children undergoing tonsillectomy. In this study, we hypothesized that dexmedetomidine would delay and decrease opioid requirements after tonsillectomy.
DAP12 deficiency in liver allografts results in enhanced donor DC migration, augmented effector T cell responses and abrogation of transplant tolerance (TRAN3P.883)

Liver interstitial dendritic cells (DC) have been implicated in immune regulation and tolerance induction. We found that the transmembrane immuno-adaptor DNAX-activating protein of 12kDa (DAP12) negatively regulated conventional liver DC maturation and their in vivo migratory and T cell allostimulatory ability. Livers were transplanted from B6 wild-type (wt) or DAP12-/- mice into wt C3H recipients. Donor DC (H2-Kb+CD11c+) were quantified in spleens by flow cytometry. Anti-donor T cell reactivity was evaluated by ex vivo CFSE-MLR and in vivo delayed-type hypersensitivity responses, while T effector and regulatory T cells were determined by flow analysis. A 3-4-fold increase in donor-derived DC was detected in the spleens of DAP12-/- liver recipients compared with those given wt grafts. Moreover, pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression in the graft, IFNγ production by graft-infiltrating CD8+ T cells, and systemic levels of IFNγ were all elevated significantly in hosts of DAP12-/- liver recipients. DAP12-/- grafts also exhibited reduced incidences of CD4+Foxp3+ cells and enhanced CD8+ T cell IFNγ secretion in response to donor antigen challenge. Unlike wt grafts, DAP12-/- livers failed to induce tolerance and were rejected acutely. Thus, DAP12 expression in liver grafts regulates donor DC migration to host lymphoid tissue, alloreactive T cell responses and transplant tolerance.
Vector based dead-time compensation for a three-level T-type converter

This paper proposes a new vector based dead time compensation method for a three-level T-type converter. The origin of the dead time voltage error is analyzed in detail under different switch commutation processes and load conditions. Based on the dead time voltage error for each phase, an error voltage vector is defined to indicate the effect of the dead time on the reference voltage vector from vector synthesis point of view. To cancel the dead time error voltage vector, the reference voltage vector is adjusted accordingly based on load current directions. Different from the studies presented in literature, the operation of the proposed dead time compensation method can be extended to over modulation region. The effectiveness and the advantages of the proposed vector based dead time compensation method are verified by both simulation and experimental results.
Combinatorial representation of color in visual cortex

Summary form only given. The responses of many neurons in primary visual cortex of monkeys are selective for the color of homogeneous color patches in their receptive fields presented on a neutral gray background. When stimuli were presented on colored backgrounds, chromatic tuning was different in most neurons, and the changes in the tuning curves depended on the chromatic contrast between stimulus and background. Although the response tuning curves and their modulation by the background color do not appear to be separable, the likelihood of the ratio of spike counts can be fit by a product of two terms one of which depends only on the color in the receptive field and the second only on the color in the nonclassical receptive field. This type of separability may be a general mechanism that the cortex uses to combine information from different contexts. Nonclassical receptive field surrounds are found in many cortical neurons and these results suggest that they are an efficient way to combine context information with feature information within a Bayesian framework.
Precursor analysis and prediction of large-amplitude relativistic electron fluxes

[1] An analysis of large-amplitude relativistic electron fluxes, Je, is given using models that predict their appearance based on solar wind precursors. It has been noted that relativistic electron flux bursts in the magnetosphere are associated with high-speed solar wind streams. This observation is used to motivate several models that quantify the association in terms of 2 × 2 contingency tables. For each model, the minimal cost structure for which the model would be useful is computed as a function of large threshold values of Je. The first model is based on the observation that a threshold crossing in the daily averaged solar wind velocity, VSW, tends to precede large relativistic electron fluxes. The optimal ratio of correct to false alarms forecasts found using this algorithm is 18:4 for a threshold corresponding to amplitudes of Je at L = 4.4 above Jc = 103 particles/str·cm2·s (corresponding to 110 total events). The second model allows for jumps in the solar wind to be an event indicator and yields slight improvements in the forecast ratio for larger values of Jc. The dependence of the optimal forecast ratio on L shell is also considered. It is shown that there are L values for which a threshold crossing of the daily average of VSW from below to above 600 km/sec is a sufficient condition for the appearance of large-amplitude relativistic electron fluxes on one of the following three days. It is also shown that the condition of a threshold crossing of VSW above 600 km/s is not a necessary condition, because ≃80% of events were not preceded by this condition.
Prüfung rostfreier Stähle auf interkristalline Korrosion mittels elektrolytischer Ätzung in Oxalsäure

In den USA wird die Empfindlichkeit rostfreier Stahle fur interkristalline Korrosion im allgemeinen durch Bestimmung der Korrosionsgeschwindigkeit in sidender 65%iger Salpetersaure wahrend einer Einwirkungszeit von 240 h nachgewiesen. In der Vorliegenden Abhandlung wird ein Verfahren beschrieben, das gestattet, gewisse rostfreie Stahle auf ihre Neigung zu intergranularer Korrosion in etwa 15 min zu prufen und zwar auf Grund des Feingefuges, das durch elektolytisches Atzen in Oxalsaure entwickelt wird. Stahle, die hierbei nur einen geringen oder uberhaupt keinen Angriff infolge von Carbidausscheidungen an den Korngrenzen zeigen, unterliegen der raschen interkristallinen Korrosion nicht und brauchen deshalb nicht dem Salpetersauretest unterworfen werden. Stahle, die dagegen bei der Oxalsaure-Atzung einen merklichen intergranularen Angriff zeigen, mussen anschliesend in Salpetersaure gepruft werden, um festzustellen, ob der Grad der intergranularen Empfindlichkeit die Grenze uberschreitet, die durch die maximale Korrosionsgeschwindigkeit in Salpetersaure fur die Verwendbarkeit des Stahls gegeben ist.
The Virile Bride of Bernard of Clairvaux

That feminine metaphors dominate Bernard of Clairvaux's treatment of the contemplative soul who as loving Bride marries Christ in prayerful ecstasy, and as Mother nurtures the world in active service, is indisputable. And much has been made in recent years of the significance of a medieval male “assuming” the role of the female, both in relation to society at large and in relation to God. These latter arguments might be summarized by the claims that the appropriation of feminine images to the medieval male self is frequently either a conscious play on cultural stereotypes to signal spiritual renunciation or the rejection of worldly values, or reflects a need, whether conscious or unconscious, for psychological integration of the feminine and masculine in the lives of those confined to a homo-social world. In Bernard's Bride, then, we discover either the male appropriation of feminine weakness as a sign of spiritual strength or the rational male appropriation of the counterbalancing feminine virtue of affective love. What has not been recognized, however, is the possibility that the figure of the Bride in Bernard of Clairvaux's Sermons on the Song of Songs might function paradoxically as a “virile woman,” a female “figure” or type who serves appropriately to represent the highest spiritual attainments of the human soul (whether of biological male or female), precisely because she has overcome any stereotypically “womanly” weaknesses and become typologically “male” or “virile.” Our interpretation of this seminal figure must thus not only take into account the confluence of masculine and feminine in her nature in ways we have not previously suspected. We must also consider the paradoxical reality that this figure may simultaneously represent a soul who is virtuous for having renounced male privilege and become a weak woman and a soul who is valorized for having overcome feminine weakness and become virile. It is this thesis that I will argue in what follows.
Effect of Water Content on Transport in Na2O·3SiO2 Glass

Na2O·3SiO2 glasses of high water content were prepared under high-pressure, hydrothermal conditions. The sodium diffusion coefficient, DNa, in these glasses measured at 100°C depended strongly on H2O content. With increasing H2O content, DNa. at 100°C decreased initially to a minimum at 3∼4 wt% H,O and then increased. This behavior of DNa. Was similar to that of dc conductivity.
Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in congenic strains of mice

Inbred mice and lines congenic to them for the major histocompatibility complex were similar in susceptibility to EAE except for moderate differences in two pairs. TheH-2 haplotypesq, s, andb occurred in inbred strains and in congenic lines of high, medium, or low susceptibility. It is concluded that the major histocompatibility complex does not control susceptibility to EAE in mice. Furthermore, the low susceptibility of DBA/1J mice was not enhanced by poly A-U.
Abdominal Contour Surgery: Treating All Aesthetic Units, Including the Mons Pubis

Background: Many patients who seek “abdominal” contour surgery also desire improvement of areas of the torso adjacent to the abdomen, such as the flanks and back rolls. Objective: We propose a classification of the abdomen into distinct aesthetic units and report on a series of cases in which this classification was used, with special emphasis on one such unit, the mons pubis. Methods: A series of 400 consecutive patients were evaluated according the proposed designation of aesthetic units. Lipoplasty was performed as described in previous studies. A subset of 6 patients who specifically desired improvement of the mons pubis were treated by lipoplasty and/or horizontal or vertical wedge incision. Results: Most patients who received treatment according to aesthetic unit were satisfied with their outcomes. Two of the patients who sought improvement of the mons pubis specifically requested additional procedures. Conclusions: An approach to abdominal contour surgery that includes consideration of all related aesthetic units can achieve more proportional, harmonious results and increase patient satisfaction.
Time course of glucocorticoid dependent changes in cardiac glycogen concentration.

SummaryCardiac glycogen concentration decreases significantly in rats within 6 hr after adrenalectomy, and gradually decreases further over the next 18 hr. Superimposed upon these decreases are diurnal variations which reach a peak in the morning (8 to 11 a.m.) and decline to a low point in the evening (8 to 11 p.m.). Dexamethasone (200 μg) significantly increases the cardiac glycogen concentration 67% within 2-4 hr after injection and completely restores the glycogen concentrations to normal levels within 24 hr.
A Brave New World: Imagining Faculty Development in the Global Era

What might globalization and the demographic shift in Christianity mean for faculty development programs? What faculty members need most is the ability to imagine globalization as Christians. This article surveys and critiques the most powerful and persistent accounts in the current contest of narratives within the field of global education. These are national security, economic success, missionary or humanitarian impact, and cultural appreciation. Each of these has constructive elements, but all are liable to reductionism and narcissism.Christian global education needs a different narrative: Christian cosmopolitanism. Cosmopolitanism is the idea that all human beings belong to a single world community. Christianity grounds cosmopolitanism in the belief that all human beings share an identity as special creations of God, formed in God's image to be God's children. Humans are also created to dwell in relationship with each other. This narrative framework helps Christian learners unmask their cultural assum...
A phenomenological model for fiber tow saturation of dual scale fabrics in liquid composite molding

Advanced composites are manufactured by liquid composite molding by impregnating a thermoset resin into a stationary woven or stitched preform. For a successful injection, the manufactured part should fill all the empty spaces between the fiber tows and inside the fiber tows with the resin. The fiber tows in such preforms have orders of magnitude lower permeability than the regions between the fiber tows, which makes them difficult to fill and hence susceptible to formation of microvoids. Numerical simulations can address the filling of fiber tows but it is difficult to capture the essential physics of their filling in a model created entirely from first principles due to the complexity of the flow which involves anisotropic permeability of flow along and across a fiber tow, uneven packing, fiber sizing, capillarity and the treatment of entrapped air. Hence, in this article we adopt a phenomenological approach in which we compare some of the possible models with an experimental procedure. The experimental procedure provides a quantitative measure of the filling of fiber tows during the impregnation process. A numerical simulation based on the dual scale flow was developed with different constitutive models that described the filling of the fiber tows. The predictions of the different models are compared with the experimental results under different processing conditions to select the model that most accurately describes the tow filling behavior. POLYM. COMPOS., 31:1881–1889, 2010. © 2010 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Long-term outcomes after native tissue vs. biological graft-augmented repair in the posterior compartment

We aimed to compare the outcomes of native tissue vs. biological graft-augmented repair in the posterior compartment. We hypothesized that the addition of graft would result in superior anatomic and functional outcomes. A retrospective review of posterior repairs between 2001 and 2008 was performed to compare the anatomic and functional outcomes between native tissue and graft-augmented techniques. Mann–Whitney and chi-square tests were used. Power calculation determined that 32 subjects were needed in each group. One hundred twenty-four native tissue and 69 graft-augmented repairs were performed with a median follow-up of 35.8 months (range, 6 to 157 months). Anatomic success was similar for native tissue vs. graft (Bp 0.05). Postoperative splinting and incomplete evacuation was greater in the graft group (splinting, 85% vs. 68%; p = 0.04 and incomplete evacuation, 85% vs. 64%; p = 0.03). Long-term success of posterior repair is high. Graft augmentation does not appear to improve anatomic or functional outcomes.
A characterization of a class of non-binary matroids

Abstract A well-known result of Tutte is that U2,4, the 4-point line, is the only non-binary matroid M such that, for every element e, both Mβe and M e , the deletion and contraction of e from M, are binary. This paper characterizes those non-binary matroids M such that, for every element e, Mβe or M e is binary.
Investigation of production of dextran and dextransucrase by Leuconostoc mesenteroides immobilized within porous stainless steel.

Cells of Leuconostoc mesenteroides were immobilized within porus, stainless-steel (SS) supports and used for dextransucrase (DS) and dextran production. The pore size of the support significantly affected the dextran yields, which were greatest with average pore sizes of 2-5 μm. All immobilized-cell biocatalysts in porous stainless steel produced higher yields than free cells, with the exception of cells confined in submicrometer pores (0.5 μm). Coating supports of larger pore size (40 and 100 μm) with calcium alginate enhanced the cell-loading capacity of the supports and increased dextran and fructose yields in the cell-free broth. Controlled, fed-batch, DS production (activation), as a step preliminary to dextran production, significantly improved the subsequent dextran and fructose yields and shortened the time required to attain the maximum such yields. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of immobilized L. mesenteroides in stainless steel shows an irregular pattern of the microorganism inside the pores of the solid supports. Coating the porous solid supports with a cell-free calcium alginate layer led to an increase in the cell density inside the support. Cell growth inside the coated, porous stainless steel had no distinct growth form. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Integrins: cell adhesion molecules in cancer

The metastatic process is the major cause of mortality in cancer patients. Metastasis involves tumour cell adhesion to other cells and extracellular matrix glycoproteins, and eventual invasion through basement membranes. Such interactions may be mediated by a great variety of cell surface biomolecules, including integrins. The development of integrin antagonists offers a promising strategy to inhibit metastasis. Potential integrin-based therapeutics include synthetic peptides that have been modified via cyclisation, or inclusion of all-D amino acids, as well as a variety of organic molecules. Issues of specificity have been addressed and ligands that bind to only one particular integrin have been isolated. Improved bioavailability appears to be the next area for consideration to create efficient delivery of potential antimetastatic compounds.
Electronic and optical properties of InAs/InP self-assembled quantum dots on patterned substrates

Abstract We present atomistic theory of electronic and optical properties of a single InAs quantum dot grown on a pyramidal InP nanotemplate. The shape and size of the dot is assumed to follow the nanotemplate shape and size. The electron and valence hole single particle states are calculated using atomistic effective–bond–orbital model with second nearest-neighbor interactions. The electronic calculations are coupled to separately calculated strain distribution via Bir–Pikus Hamiltonian. The optical properties of InAs dots embedded in InP pyramids are calculated by solving the many-exciton Hamiltonian for interacting electron and hole complexes using the configuration–interaction method. The effect of quantum-dot geometry on the optical spectra is investigated by a comparison between dots of different shapes.
P01-23 Oxcarbazepine vs. topiramate in alcohol dependence

Introduction Aim of this randomised, parallel, placebo-controlled group trial was to compare oxcarbazepina and topiramate with placebo on alcohol drinking indices. Craving and psychiatric simptomatology have also been investigated. Methods This randomised, parallel, placebo-controlled psychopharmacology trial studied 60 patients, consecutively recruited, meeting clinical criteria for Alcohol Dependence (DSM-IV). After detoxification, subjects were assigned to flexible doses of oxcarbazepine (n=20), or topiramate (n=20) or placebo (n=20). Withdrawal symptomatology was determined by the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol (CIWA-Ar) and the level of craving for alcohol was evaluated by a 10-cm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Italian -version of the Obsessive and Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS). Psychiatric symptoms were evaluated with the Symptom Check List 90 Revised (SCL-90 R). Results Non-benzodiazepine anticonvulsants have been shown to be efficacious treatments for the prevention of alcohol relapse although the FDA has yet approved none of these agents. During the congress the main results of this study will be presented. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first randomised, parallel, placebo-controlled group study to evaluate the efficacy of oxcarbazepine and topiramate compared in alcohol dependent patients. The data of this pilot clinical study suggest and investigate a possible role for the anticonvulsants agents in the treatment of alcohol dependent patients.
“Beware of the estrogen assault”: Ideals of old manhood in anti-aging advertisements

Abstract Previous studies have demonstrated the tendency of recent medical, therapeutic, and pharmacologic discourses on sexuality to advocate a “resexing” of old age, in which aging men purchase means to bolster erections [Marshall, Barbara L. and Stephen Katz. 2006. “From androgyny to androgens: Re-sexing the aging body.” Pp. 75–97 in Age Matters: Realigning feminist thinking , edited by T. M. Calasanti and K. F. Slevin. New York: Routledge.]. This study examines the links between masculinity and age in anti-aging advertisements. Analysis of ninety-six anti-aging websites reveals a vision of manhood as: based on hormones, opposing womanhood, forestalling aging, competing and performing in sexual and employment realms, allowing men to dominate those around them. Rather than challenge ageism, this construction reinforces both age and gender inequalities. It defines men as dominant and defines women in terms of men’s desires. It defines prosperity in old age in terms of younger experiences, and defines aging itself as a sickness that results from a loss of masculinity (testosterone), which only aggressive consumption of anti-aging products can heal.
Effects of univalent cations on the properties of yeast NAD+ acetaldehyde dehydrogenase.

Summary Acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (aldehyde:NAD(P) + oxidoreductase, EC 1.2.1.5) from yeast is activated by K + and Rb + . Sodium and Li + antagonize the activation, apparently by competitive inhibition with K + . The stimulation of activity by mercaptoethanol and the activation by K + are not additive in a reaction mixture containing both. Potassium and Rb + in the order just mentioned protect acetaldehyde dehydrogenase from inactivation by heat, whereas Na + and Li + are less effective as protectants. After prolonged dialysis against Tris buffer, and consequent loss of 90–95% of activity, the enzyme can be reactivated to a considerable extent by univalent cations. The best reactivating cation is K + , followed by Rb + then by Na + and Li + and finally by Tris + . The level of K + required to half-saturate the enzyme is independent of substrate size.
Separation of Angles in the Two-Electron Problem

Neglecting the spin, two electrons are described in quantum mechanics by means of a wave equation in six variables. It is shown that well-known relations between angular momentum operators make it possible to determine the dependence of the wave function on three variables. The problem is thus reduced from six to three dimensions. For a state with an assigned "orbital" angular momentum $l$, say an $S$, $P$, $D$ state the dependence of the wave function on three Euler angles is determined by the value of $l$. The wave function is a linear combination of products of distance and angle functions, the latter depending only on the three Euler angles. The angle functions are well-known solutions of the wave equation for a symmetrical top. The distance functions satisfy wave equations in three variables ${r}_{1}$, ${r}_{2}$, ${r}_{12}$ or ${r}_{1}$, ${r}_{2}$, $\ensuremath{\theta}$. The case of $P$ terms is worked out in detail. Equations (10), (25) apply to two electrons having the same asimuthal quantum number. Equations (18), (20), (24) describe all the other cases, for instance $S$ and $P$ electrons combining to give $^{1}P$ and $^{3}P$. Triplets are described by (18) and singlets by (20).
LUNAR OUTGASSING, TRANSIENT PHENOMENA, AND THE RETURN TO THE MOON. II. PREDICTIONS AND TESTS FOR OUTGASSING/REGOLITH INTERACTIONS

We follow Paper I with predictions of how gas leaking through the lunar surface could influence the regolith, as might be observed via optical transient lunar phenomena (TLPs) and related effects. We touch on several processes, but concentrate on low and high flow rate extremes, which are perhaps the most likely. We model explosive outgassing for the smallest gas overpressure at the regolith base that releases the regolith plug above it. This disturbance's timescale and affected area are consistent with observed TLPs; we also discuss other effects. For slow flow, escape through the regolith is prolonged by low diffusivity. Water, found recently in deep magma samples, is unique among candidate volatiles, capable of freezing between the regolith base and surface, especially near the lunar poles. For major outgassing sites, we consider the possible accumulation of water ice. Over geological time, ice accumulation can evolve downward through the regolith. Depending on gases additional to water, regolith diffusivity might be suppressed chemically, blocking seepage and forcing the ice zone to expand to larger areas, up to km2 scales, again, particularly at high latitudes. We propose an empirical path forward, wherein current and forthcoming technologies provide controlled, sensitive probes of outgassing. The optical transient/outgassing connection, addressed via Earth-based remote sensing, suggests imaging and/or spectroscopy, but aspects of lunar outgassing might be more covert, as indicated above. TLPs betray some outgassing, but does outgassing necessarily produce TLPs? We also suggest more intrusive techniques from radar to in situ probes. Understanding lunar volatiles seems promising in terms of resource exploitation for human exploration of the Moon and beyond, and offers interesting scientific goals in its own right. Many of these approaches should be practiced in a pristine lunar atmosphere, before significant confusing signals likely to be produced upon humans returning to the Moon.
Autonomous Control Of Spacecraft Nuclear Reactors

Recent theoretical and experimental progress towards the achievement of an autonomous control system for spacecraft nuclear reactors is reported. A controller having a multitiered structure with the capability for both supervisory and predictive control as well as automated reasoning is proposed. Such a system would establish bounds for permitted operation (supervisory control), facilitate the inference of system response (predictive control), and provide a means for assessing its own performance (automated reasoning). Recent developments concerning specific features of this controller are reported including the use of energy constraints for supervisory control, the performance of automated reactor startups using the MIT-SNL Period-Generated Minimum Time Laws, and considerations relevant to the use of pattern recognition, expert systems, and causal analysis for the on-line assessment of controller performance. Also, an overview is given of the MIT program on reactor control.
Alpha(1)-adrenoceptors (alpha(1)-AR) and vascular smooth muscle cell growth.

BACKGROUND: Smooth muscle cells in vascular tissue, like tissue within the urogenital sinus, undergo growth and proliferation. METHODS: This review attempts to compare and contrast the mechanisms and controlling factors involved in prostatic and vascular tissue. There is a particular focus on the role of catecholamines and alpha-adrenoceptors (alpha-ARs), and on the effects of alpha(1)-AR antagonists (blockers) on cellular dynamics. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The situation in vascular tissue appears analagous to that in prostatic tissue. Certain AR-antagonists, in addition to altering smooth muscle contraction, may have other actions on cellular dynamics.
INFORMATION AND THE PROVISION OF QUALITY DIFFERENTIATED PRODUCTS

Governments often enact information provision policies to overcome asymmetric information of product qualities. We show that increasing awareness among consumers of the quality of a good can (but will not always) encourage firms to produce goods with higher levels of quality. Even if product qualities increase, social welfare may fall as information provision results in too much product differentiation. We show that the effectiveness of emission taxes and output subsidies are affected by the level of consumer knowledge of product quality, and we identify conditions under which information provision is welfare enhancing relative to these price instruments. (JEL L15, Q58) I. INTRODUCTION In the past 20 years, consumers have become increasinglyconscious ofthe undesirable health and safety attributes of the products they consume, and surveys suggest that a growing percentage of consumers are willing to pay more for higher quality products, such as organic foods and household cleaners and detergents that contain less toxic ingredients (Guber 2003). Other high-quality products facing higher demand include energy-efficient products like extended-life lightbulbs and improved home insulation. Often, these highquality products provide private benefits that are excludable to buyers as well as public benefits that are nonrival and nonexcludable. For example, reduced pesticide and chemical residue on food may lower the risk of cancer while also reducing contaminated run-off that degrades ground and surface water quality. Extended-life lightbulbs and improved home insulation may reduce an individual’s utility bill while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions from lower energy consumption. Although interest in these types of high-quality productsisgrowing,demand isoften relatively small. Market shares of organic produce, for
Compaction of woven-fabric preforms: nesting and multi-layer deformation

In a previous paper the authors studied the elastic deformation during the compaction of a single-layer woven-fabric preform in liquid-composite molding (LCM) processes. This paper presents the analytical results for the nesting and elastic deformation during the compaction of multi-layer woven-fabric preforms. A 3-D model of the unit cell for multi-layer fabrics has been proposed with certain assumptions and has been adopted to predict the compressive behavior of yarns. On the basis of this model and beam theory in the mechanics of materials, analytical expressions for relationships between the fiber volume fraction, the applied compressive force, and the preform thickness reduction have been established for non-nesting and maximum nesting cases. For the general nesting cases, an empirical relationship between the compressive force and the thickness reduction is proposed.
Does laparoscopic vs. conventional surgery increase exfoliated cancer cells in the peritoneal cavity during resection of colorectal cancer

PURPOSE: Traumatic manipulation of cancer specimens during laparoscopic colectomy may increase exfoliation of malignant cells into the peritoneal cavity, causing an early occurrence of peritoneal carcinomatosis or port-sites recurrence. Because of this concern, the routine use of intraperitoneal chemotherapy after laparoscopic colectomy for cancer was suggested recently. We assessed if laparoscopicvs. conventional surgery increases exfoliated malignant cells in the peritoneal cavity during resection of colorectal cancer. METHODS: In a prospective, randomized fashion, 38 colorectal cancer patients undergoing an elective, curative operation were assigned to either a conventional or laparoscopic procedure between June 1996 and May 1997. In either group (n=19), after the abdominal cavity was entered, saline was instilled into the peritoneal cavity, and the fluid was collected (Specimen 1). During surgery, all irrigating fluids were collected (Specimen 2). Both specimens were assessed for malignancy using four techniques: filtration process (ThinPrep®), smear, cell block, and immunochemistry using Ber-EP4. The change in the amount of tumor cells in both specimens was compared between surgical groups. A pilot study was performed to validate the proposed cytologic method. RESULTS: In the pilot study of 20 consecutive patients with colorectal cancer, postresectional peritoneal cytology was positive in six patients, including two Stage II (T3,N0,M0) patients. The pilot study also validated that our semiquantitative scoring system can be reliably used to assess the amount of free peritoneal cancer cells. In the main study, 16 right colectomies, 3 extended right colectomies, 17 proctosigmoidectomies, and 1 left colectomy were performed. The T and N stages were T1 (n=13), T2 (n=5), T3 (n=8), T4 (n=11); N0 (n=22), N1 (n=8), N2 (n=7). Malignant cells were not detected in any Specimens 1 or, more importantly, in Specimens 2 in either surgical group. CONCLUSION: When performed according to strict oncologic surgical principles, laparoscopic techniques in curative colorectal cancer surgery did not have an increased risk of intraperitoneal cancer cell spillage, compared with conventional techniques. We hope that these results can decrease some of the concerns about tumors cell spillage and seeding during laparoscopy.
Interpretation of Outcomes of Antiarrhythmic Clinical Trials Design Features and Population Impact

The results of the Cardiac Arrhythmia Suppression Trials (CAST and CAST II) were a watershed in attitudes about management of cardiac arrhythmias.1 2 3 On the basis of the then-prevailing assumption that premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) in the presence of recent myocardial infarction identified a risk for life-threatening arrhythmias and that they also served as the trigger for fatal arrhythmias, it was logical to determine whether suppression of ambient arrhythmias would protect against fatal events.4 Despite the outcomes of these trials, ambient arrhythmias are still viewed as a marker of risk (perhaps somewhat lower than previously thought) and as pathophysiological triggers under proper conditions.5 However, the concept that suppression of asymptomatic PVCs is an appropriate preventive strategy has fallen under the weight of evidence from those studies.6 In addition, new concepts of proarrhythmia emerged from CAST and other sources of information.7 After CAST, a variety of trials testing therapy with other drugs and with implantable devices were implemented, some of which are now completed. The various trials differ in regard to therapeutic strategies, designs, and patient populations. With the flow of new information that has been forthcoming and is anticipated to continue during the next few years, it is important to keep the strengths and limitations of clinical trial designs in perspective and to consider the extent to which the results of any one trial or group of trials can be generalized. This review is intended to analyze general features of trial design that influence their interpretation, application, and clinical impact. It is not intended as a critique of individual trials. The factors discussed include (1) specific outcomes measures; (2) the type of controls used; (3) intention-to-treat versus on-therapy analysis; (4) comparison of therapeutic efficacy, efficiency, and equilibrium; (5) significant negative outcomes; and (6) population …
The Impact on Respiratory Severity Of Antenatal Corticosteroids and Postnatal Surfactant In Premature Infants. † 1220

Objective: Antenatal maternal receipt of corticosteroids is known to decrease respiratory morbidity, but many women delivering prematurely do not receive this therapy. The clinical impact of this deficit in the era of surfactant use is not well characterized. This study examined the relative and additive impact of antenatal corticosteroid therapy and postnatal surfactant use on severity of respiratory disease in premature infants.
Utility of an adenosine triphosphate bioluminescence assay to evaluate disinfection of Clostridium difficile isolation rooms

Effective disinfection of hospital rooms after discharge of patients with Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is necessary to prevent transmission. Unfortunately, several studies have demonstrated that it is not uncommon for environmental cultures to remain positive for C. difficile after cleaning and disinfection of rooms in which a patient with CDI has been hospitalized (CDI rooms) by environmental services personnel. Cultures for C. difficile could potentially be useful to monitor disinfection of CDI rooms, but they are neither widely available nor efficient. There is a need for easy-to use and rapid methods to assess the effectiveness of CDI room disinfection. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence assays provide a rapid assessment of cleaning effectiveness, because detection of ATP on surfaces indicates the presence of residual organic material (eg, bacteria, human secretions or excretions, and food). Detection of ATP is commonly used in the food and beverage industry and is increasingly being used in health care facilities to assess the adequacy of cleaning procedures. It is not known whether measurement of ATP on surfaces is useful to evaluate disinfection of CDI rooms. Here, we tested the hypothesis that low ATP readings on cleaned surfaces in CDI rooms would be predictive of negative cultures for C. difficile.
Endovascular treatment of ruptured posterior circulation cerebral aneurysms. Clinical and angiographic outcomes.

Background and Purpose—We sought to describe the clinical outcome and angiographic results obtained in the endovascular therapy of ruptured posterior circulation cerebral aneurysms using Guglielmi detachable coils (GDC) over a 7-year period. Methods—A retrospective analysis was performed of 112 patients evaluated at the University of California at San Francisco Medical Center between June 1991 and August 1998. The Hunt-Hess grade at presentation of treated patients was I in 26 patients (24%), II in 24 (22%), III in 27 (25%), IV in 24 (22%), and V in 8 (7%). Clinical follow-up for the total population was achieved in 104 of 109 patients (96%), with a mean duration of 13.1 months. Angiographic follow-up for the subset excluding parent vessel occlusion cases was obtained in 93% of cases, with a mean duration of 7.2 months. Results—Technical success, defined as the ability to catheterize and embolize the aneurysm with GDC, was achieved in 109 of 112 of cases (97%). The mean angiographic occlusion rate, or pro...
National programs to protect genetic diversity — The US example

A country which truly wishes to preserve the full range of genetic diversity with which it has been endowed must look beyond large biosphere reserves. It must inventory and protect individual species and habitat types in smaller preserves as well. The United States provides an example of a country which has a legacy of preserves. Much of the land that would be necessary for an effective preserve system has already been acquired, but basic information and coordination among agencies is lacking.
Static aeroelastic tailoring for oblique wing lateral trim

Due to its asymmetrical configuration, an oblique wing aircraft may exhibit a roll-trim imbalance. To correct this imbalance, control surfaces, such as ailerons, might be deflected or built-in twists might be added. This paper explores an alternative method of achieving oblique wing roll trim. This is the concept of applying composite tailoring to the oblique wing for lateral trim. The practical use of this concept to trim an oblique wing is demonstrated through analysis of a realistic wing by a static aeroelastic computational procedure. The computational method includes the full-potential transonic aerodynamic code FLO22 and a Ritz structural plate program that is used to model the stiffness created by symmetrical, but unbalanced, advanced composite wing skins. Analysis results indicate that asymmetric composite tailoring reduces the aileron deflection needed for roll equilibrium of the oblique wing. Furthermore, the use of aeroelastic tailoring for lateral trim can reduce control surface hinge moments and drag, resulting in performance benefits when compared to an untailored wing. At the same time, however, wing-skin stresses are greater when tailoring is used, leading to potential design tradeoffs. As such, an integrated design approach would be required to evaluate the true impact of aeroelastic tailoring on the overall performance of an oblique wing.
Practical Advice on Calculating Confidence Intervals for Radioprotection Effects and Reducing Animal Numbers in Radiation Countermeasure Experiments

The dose of a substance that causes death in P% of a population is called an LDP, where LD stands for lethal dose. In radiation research, a common LDP of interest is the radiation dose that kills 50% of the population by a specified time, i.e., lethal dose 50 or LD50. When comparing LD50 between two populations, relative potency is the parameter of interest. In radiation research, this is commonly known as the dose reduction factor (DRF). Unfortunately, statistical inference on dose reduction factor is seldom reported. We illustrate how to calculate confidence intervals for dose reduction factor, which may then be used for statistical inference. Further, most dose reduction factor experiments use hundreds, rather than tens of animals. Through better dosing strategies and the use of a recently available sample size formula, we also show how animal numbers may be reduced while maintaining high statistical power. The illustrations center on realistic examples comparing LD50 values between a radiation counter...
A High-Order Overset-Grid Approach for Large Eddy Simulations

A parallel, high-order, overset-grid method is validated for use in large eddy simulation (LES) through its application to turbulent flow problems. The current method employs a high-order, compact finite-difference approach to evaluate spatial derivatives, with up-to-tenth-order low-pass filters used to remove high-frequency spurious wave content. These filters have also been found to be effective in modeling the dissipation that occurs at the unresolved scales in the flow for LES simulations. Temporal integration is based on an implicit, approximately-factored and diagonalized, second-order algorithm, which reduces the time-step constraints present in explicit time-marching methods for wall-bounded viscous flows. Parallelization, geometric complexity, and local grid refinement are all addressed through the use of an overset-grid approach, with grid communication provided by high-order Lagrangian interpolation. Problems demonstrating this approach include fully turbulent channel flow and flows over a single circular cylinder, a general delta-wing configuration, and a realistic UAV geometry.
Patient Perceptions of Pharmacist-Managed Clinics: A Qualitative Analysis

Background:Pharmacist-managed clinics have consistently demonstrated improvement in patient outcomes. Quantitative research offers the benefit of objective outcomes to track progress toward therapeutic goals at pharmacist-managed clinics. While quantitative studies are readily available in the literature, there is a paucity of qualitative studies to capture the patients' perspectives of pharmacy services.Objective:To assess through the use of qualitative research methods patient perceptions of pharmacist-managed services within ambulatory care clinics that operate under a collaborative practice agreement.Methods:A semi-structured interview questionnaire was developed, pilot tested, and revised using a focus group of clinical pharmacists. The questionnaire was used to conduct face-to-face patient interviews at 6 pharmacist-managed clinics in central Indiana. English-speaking patients with a minimum of 2 visits with the clinical pharmacist were included in this study. Pharmacist-managed clinics without esta...