cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Can the Messiahship of Jesus Be Read off Paul's Grammar? Nils Dahl's Criteria 50 Years Later

It is half a century since Nils A. Dahl wrote his important essay ‘Die Messianitat Jesu bei Paulus’, in which he determines that χριστός in Paul is effectively a proper name, not a title, on the basis of four negative philological observations: it is never a general term; it is never a predicate of the verb ‘to be’; it never takes a genitive modifier; and it characteristically lacks the definite article. The purpose of this article is to reconsider what each of these observations entails about the messiahship of Jesus. My thesis is that, while all four observations are significant for understanding Paul's thought, they do not constitute proper criteria for assessing the role of the messiahship of Jesus therein.
Elliptic Heat Conduction Specialized Applications Involving High Gradients: Local Discontinuous Galerkin Finite Element Method—Part 1

In this paper, a Local Discontinuous Galerkin (LDG) finite element method is described for solving specialized heat conduction problems involving sharp/high gradients. The advantages of LDG method over the traditional continuous Galerkin (CG) finite element method are presented. It is further shown in the problems involving sharp and/or high gradients, that the LDG method is less expensive, requiring a fewer number of degrees of freedom as compared to the continuous Galerkin method to capture the peak value of the gradients. Simple one- and two-dimensional applications are illustrated to describe the applicability to this class of field problems.
On the attenuation of transient fields by imperfectly conducting spherical shells

Exact formulas for the electric and magnetic fields at any arbitrary point within a cavity region completely enclosed by a conducting spherical shell of arbitrary size are derived under the assumption that the exciting electromagnetic field is a linearly polarized, monochromatic, plane wave falling on the external surface of the shell. It is shown that the polarization of the electromagnetic field at the center of the cavity is the same as the polarization of the incident wave. From a knowledge of this steady-state solution, the time history of the electromagnetic field at the center of the cavity is calculated for the case where the incident wave is a Gaussian pulse. Numerical information on the effectiveness of the aluminum and copper shields under steady-state and transient conditions is provided for several pulse durations, shield sizes, and wall thicknesses.
Role of staging in prognosis and management of thymoma

Eighty-five patients operated on for thymoma from 1972 to 1989 were evaluated, 32 with myasthenia gravis and 53 without. Masaoka staging revealed stage I disease in 45 (53%), stage II in 23 (27%), stage III in 14 (16%), and stage IVa in 3 (4%). There was no operative mortality. Actuarial survival at 10 years was 63.7% for all patients: 78.3% for those in stage I, 74.7% for those in stage II, and 20.8% for those in stage III. There was no recurrence in patients in stage I. Mediastinal recurrence developed in 4 patients in stage II considered to have noninvasive disease by the surgeon. It is recommended that all patients be followed up for a minimum of 10 years and that all patients in stages II and III receive postoperative radiotherapy. The presence of myasthenia gravis is no longer considered as an adverse factor in survival.
An algorithm for the design of group sequential triangular tests for single‐arm clinical trials with a binary endpoint

Consider the problem of testing H0:p⩽p0 vs H1:p>p0, where p could, for example, represent the response rate to a new drug. The group sequential TT is an efficient alternative to a single-stage test as it can provide a substantial reduction in the expected number of test subjects. Whitehead provides formulas for determining stopping boundaries for this test. Existing research shows that test designs based on these formulas (WTTs) may not meet Type I error and/or power specifications, or may be over-powered at the expense of requiring more test subjects than are necessary. We present a search algorithm, with program available from the author, which provides an alternative approach to triangular test design. The primary advantage of the algorithm is that it generates test designs that consistently meet error specifications. In tests on nearly 1000 example combinations of n (group size), p0, p1, α, and β the algorithm-determined triangular test (ATT) design met specified Type I error and power constraints in every case considered, whereas WTT designs met constraints in only 10 cases. Actual Type I error and power values for the ATTs tend to be close to specified values, leading to test designs with favorable average sample number performance. For cases where the WTT designs did meet Type I error and power constraints, the corresponding ATT designs also had the advantage of providing, on average, a modest reduction in average sample numbers calculated at p0, p1, and (p0 + p1)/2. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
RPA calculation of the transverse nuclear relaxation rate for YBa2Cu3O7 in the superconducting state

Abstract We present the predictions of an RPA-like theory for the transverse nuclear relaxation time, τ, of the Cu(2) nuclei in YBa2Cu3O7 below Tc. We find that s and dwave type gap symmetries yield distinctively different results for the τ−1: for an swave gap τ−1 decays rapidly below Tc, while for a dwave gap it remains nearly constant. Results for the temperature dependence of τ−1 in the normal state are also given.
Circular Chromatic Number for Iterated Mycielski Graphs

Abstract For a graph G , let M( G ) denote the Mycielski graph of G . The t th iterated Mycielski graph of G , M t ( G ), is defined recursively by M 0 ( G )= G , and M t ( G )=M(M t −1 ( G )) for t ⩾1. Let χ c ( G ) denote the circular chromatic number of G . We prove two main results: (1) If G has a universal vertex x , then χ c (M( G ))= χ (M( G )) if χ c (G−x)>χ(G)− 1 2 and G is not a star, otherwise χ c ( M (G))=χ( M (G))− 1 2 ; and (2) χ c (M t ( K m ))= χ (M t ( K m )) if m ⩾2 t −1 +2 t −2 and t ⩾2.
Integration framework for NASA NextGen Volumetric Cockpit Situation Display with haptic feedback

In this paper, we present a framework for the integration of force feedback information in a NASA NextGen Volumetric Cockpit Situation Display (CSD). With the current CSD, the user retrieves operational information solely through visual displays and interacts with the CSD tools through using a mouse. The advanced capabilities of the CSD may require complex manipulation of information which may be difficult to perform with input devices found in today's cockpits. Performance with the CSD could benefit from a new user input device and enhanced user feedback modalities that can be operated safely, effectively, and intuitively in a cockpit environment. In this work, we investigate the addition of force feedback in two key CSD tasks: object selection and route manipulation. Different force feedback models were applied to communicate guidance commands, such as collision avoidance and target contact. We also discuss the development of a GUI-based software interface to allow the integration of a haptic device for the CSD. A preliminary user study was conducted on a testbed system using the Novint Falcon force-feedback device. A full experiment, assessing the effectiveness and usability of the feedback model in the CSD, will be performed in the next phase of our research.
Determination of molecular weight data in size-exclusion chromatography by use of broad-molecular-weight-distributed standards

Abstract The analysis of technical polycarbonates and nitrocelluloses by size-exclusion chromatography and the evaluation of chromatograms by conventional narrow-standard calibration and by a recently published broad-molecular-weight-distributed (MWD) standard calibration procedure [O. Chiantore and A. E. Hamielec, J. Liq. Chromatogr. , 7 (1984) 1753] are described. The broad-MWD standard calibration procedure calculates by an iterative computer search the sample calibration graph from a calibration graph obtained with narrow-MWD standards using one broad-MWD standard of the sample. The results from both procedures are evaluated with data obtained from absolute techniques ( e.g. , light scattering, osmometry).
Gelatinase B (MMP-9) Is Not Essential in the Normal Kidney and Does Not Influence Progression of Renal Disease in a Mouse Model of Alport Syndrome

Matrix metalloproteinases are matrix degrading enzymes implicated in many biological processes, including development and inflammation. Gelatinase B (gelB; also known as MMP-9) is expressed in the kidney and is hypothesized to be involved in basement membrane remodeling and in preventing pathogenic accumulation of extracellular matrix in the kidney. Inhibition of gelB activity in metanephric organ culture disrupts branching morphogenesis of the ureteric bud, suggesting that gelB plays a role in kidney development in vivo . We studied kidneys of gelB-deficient mice to search for developmental, histological, molecular, ultrastructural, and functional defects. Surprisingly, no differences between gelB−/− and control kidneys were detected, and renal function was normal in gelB mutants. In addition, gelB−/− embryonic kidneys developed normally in organ culture. Gelatinase B-deficient mice were bred with Col4a3 −/− mice, a model for Alport syndrome, to determine whether gelB influences the progression of glomerulonephritis. This is an important question, as it has been hypothesized that proteases are involved in damaging Alport glomerular basement membrane. However, the presence or absence of gelB did not affect the rate of progression of renal disease. Thus, gelB does not have a discernible role in the normal kidney and gelB is not involved in the progression of glomerulonephritis in a mouse model of Alport syndrome.
The Empty Hexagon Theorem

Let P be a finite set of points in general position in the plane. Let C(P) be the convex hull of P and let CiP be the ith convex layer of P. A minimal convex set S of P is a convex subset of P such that every convex set of P ∩ C(S) different from S has cardinality strictly less than |S|. Our main theorem states that P contains an empty convex hexagon if C1P is minimal and C4P is not empty. Combined with the Erdos-Szekeres theorem, this result implies that every set P with sufficiently many points contains an empty convex hexagon, giving an affirmative answer to a question posed by Erdos in 1977.
Symmetry breaking and the interaction of hyperbolic waves

Abstract Hyperbolic conservation laws have scale invariance symmetry. In this paper we study an example of the breaking of such symmetry which occurs when the coefficients of a scalar hyperbolic equation are themselves solutions of an elliptic equation. Our model problem is related to wave refraction that occurs during two-phase incompressible flow in a porous medium consisting of two homogeneous layers. With the aid of formal and computational mathematics we study the evolution of the angles made by intersecting discontinuities. The space of scale symmetric solutions for the refraction problem changes discontinuously at a certain point in the parameter space. At this point the solution space is two-dimensional, but at other points it is one- or zero-dimensional, i.e., isolated. We introduce approximate scale breaking elementary waves as formal constructions which give a uniform two-dimensional solution space. A stability analysis determines the region of the parameter space where the isolated exact solutions are stable. Our numerical experiments give an independent verification of the formal results.
Recording stereoscopic 3D neurosurgery with a head-mounted 3D camera system

AbstractStereoscopic three-dimensional (3D) imaging can present more information to the viewer and further enhance the learning experience over traditional two-dimensional (2D) video. Most 3D surgical videos are recorded from the operating microscope and only feature the crux, or the most important part of the surgery, leaving out other crucial parts of surgery including the opening, approach, and closing of the surgical site. In addition, many other surgeries including complex spine, trauma, and intensive care unit procedures are also rarely recorded. We describe and share our experience with a commercially available head-mounted stereoscopic 3D camera system to obtain stereoscopic 3D recordings of these seldom recorded aspects of neurosurgery. The strengths and limitations of using the GoPro® 3D system as a head-mounted stereoscopic 3D camera system in the operating room are reviewed in detail. Over the past several years, we have recorded in stereoscopic 3D over 50 cranial and spinal surgeries and crea...
Exact tensor hypercontraction: a universal technique for the resolution of matrix elements of local finite-range N-body potentials in many-body quantum problems.

Configuration-space matrix elements of $N$-body potentials arise naturally and ubiquitously in the Ritz-Galerkin solution of many-body quantum problems. For the common specialization of local, finite-range potentials, we develop the exact tensor hypercontraction method, which provides a quantized renormalization of the coordinate-space form of the $N$-body potential, allowing for a highly separable tensor factorization of the configuration-space matrix elements. This representation allows for substantial computational savings in chemical, atomic, and nuclear physics simulations, particularly with respect to difficult ``exchangelike'' contractions.
Reducing General and Specific Heterosexism Through Cooperative Contact

Abstract The primary purpose of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of cooperative contact as a method to reduce homophobia. Thirty-seven college students were administered the Gay and Lesbian Attitude Scale (GLAS) eight weeks prior to the experiment. Two actors were hired to pose as heterosexuals or homosexuals. Two to four subjects and the male and female actors formed small groups to solve a series of nearly impossible logic problems. The groups were instructed to work together to solve these problems and told that the groups scoring in the 85th percentile would earn extra credit in their Introduction to Psychology course. The two actors were trained to take a leadership role in solving the logic problems. For half the groups, the actors identified themselves as heterosexuals and in the remaining groups as homosexuals. Analysis of variance performed on the pre-intervention minus post-intervention GLAS scores showed a nonsignificant reward main effect and a nonsignificant reward by sexual ...
The photodynamics of 2-(2′-hydroxy-5′-methylphenyl)-benzotriazole in low-temperature organic glasses

Abstract The non-time-resolved and time-resolved emission spectroscopy of 2-(2′-hydroxy-5′-methylphenyl)-benzotriazole in low-temperature organic glasses has been investigated. The observed data are consistent with a kinetic model that has been discussed previously by several researchers. Our results suggest that the extremely efficient electronic radiationless decay of this compounds is due to an exceptionally rapid decay rate for the proton-transferred form of the first electronically excited singlet state.
Temporal changes in the sources of flood basalts: Isotopic and trace element evidence from the 1100 Ma old Keweenawan Mamainse Point Formation, Ontario, Canada

Abstract The Keweenawan Mamainse Point Formation, located on the eastern flank of a major 1100 Ma continental-rift/flood basalt province in the midcontinent of North America, consists of 5.3 km of continuously exposed picrite and basalt. The more than 350 lava flows exposed span nearly the entire duration of Keweenawan igneous activity and can be divided into eight groups on the basis of stratigraphic correlation of major, trace element and neodymium isotopic compositions. Flows from the lower part of the section result from a mantle plume interacting with old subcontinental lithospheric mantle based on their ϵNd(1100) ranging from −5 to −0.5 and on their enriched incompatible trace element abundances with distinctive depletions in Ta and Nb. Flows from the middle of the section are dominated by crustal assimilation as evidenced by their depletions in P and Ti, enrichments in Ba, Th, La and Ce and low ϵNd(1100) of −9. Voluminous flow groups from the upper part of the section derive from a mantle source that is a mixture of plume and depleted mantle based on their consistently more radiogenic ϵNd(1100) of 0 to +3.5 and major and trace element compositions closest to the Proterozoic equivalent of MORB. A volumetrically minor flow group from the uppermost part of the section has very high incompatible element contents and ϵNd(1100) values between −1 and 0, showing renewed late-stage melting at low extents from the mantle plume. The progression of magmatic sources from plume+lithospheric mantle to plume+depleted mantle at this one locality parallels the magmatic evolution of other flood basalt provinces which are usually only developed over a much wider area.
Monitoring Fatigue Cracking in Interconnects in a Ball Grid Array by Measuring Electrical Resistance

In displacement controlled mechanical fatigue of ball grid solder interconnect arrays, decrease in maximum load monitors total increase in crack area in an array while electrical resistance monitors only the area of large cracks that lead to electrical failure. Small cracks with good electrical contact between the crack surfaces have only minor effect on the resistance of the array. In this mechanical fatigue research of ball grid arrays, the fatigue damage was continually followed by simultaneously measuring maximum load and electrical resistance. Experimental details, results, and analysis of the results are given including a Paris relation fit to the data.
Determination of 2,6-dichloro-4-nitroaniline Residues in Fruits by Electron-Capture Gas Chromatography

SUMMARY A procedure for the analysis of 2,6-dichloro-4-nitroaniline by electron-capture gas chromatography is described. In this technique, samples are extracted with benzene and analyzed in a gas chromatograph without involving any additional cleanup procedures. It is applicable to a variety of stone fruits, and as low as 0.01 ppm of residue can be detected.
Microbial methylation of mercury in upper Wisconsin river sediments

The microbial methylation of Hg was studied in water and sediments from the Upper Wisconsin River by quantifying the methylation of radioactive Hg(II) (203Hg[NO3]2). Methylation activity was near detection limits in the water, highest in surface sediments (0 to 4 cm), and decreased with increasing sediment depth. Methylation had a temperature optimum of 35 °C. Organically enriched sediments exhibited higher methylation activity than less eutrophic sediments. Methylation activity in sediments was stimulated by the addition of peptone but not by glucose or starch. Oxygenation of sediments inhibited methylation activity. A summertime peak in methylation activity, observed in water, floc, and sediments, was related to factors other than temperature. More than 98% of the added 203Hg(II) was bound to sediments within 4 hr of inoculation, while more than 3% was methylated during a 10-day incubation. As much as 7% of the added 203Hg(II) was methylated in other experiments, suggesting that bound Hg is available for methylation. These data suggest that organic-rich surficial sediments in the Upper Wisconsin River have the potential to produce significant amounts of toxic methylmercury during late summer months.
Affective and Cognitive Online Shopping Experience Effects of Image Interactivity Technology and Experimenting With Appearance

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of image interactivity technology (IIT) features and an individual difference, experimenting with appearance (EA), on consumers’ shopping enjo...
Use-dependent conduction block produced by volatile general anesthetic agents.

The ability of a tertiary amine local anesthetic, barbiturates, and several volatile general anesthetics to block conduction of the compound action potential was measured in the frog sciatic nerve. Action potentials from large myelinated fibers were monitored using a desheathed nerve preparation in a sucrose-gap chamber. Supramaximal stimuli were applied over a range of stimulus frequencies from 0.1 Hz to 500 Hz. All three anesthetic agents produced a phasic, frequency-dependent anesthetic block, which developed with repetitive stimulation and returned to a tonic level when the nerve remained at rest. Saxitoxin produced a frequencyindependent block. The frequency-dependent conduction blocks produced by the tertiary amine anesthetic and by the barbiturates were potentiated by elevated Ca2+ in the solution bathing the nerve, but Ca2+ changes did not modify the block produced by any of the volatile anesthetics, so the latter agents probably art by a diffrent mechanism than local anesthetics or barbiturates.
Marfan syndrome caused by a recurrent de novo missense mutation in the fibrillin gene.

Marfan syndrome is an inherited disorder of connective tissue manifested in the ocular, skeletal and cardiovascular systems. It is inherited as an autosomal dominant with high penetrance, but has great clinical variability. Linkage studies have mapped the Marfan locus to chromosome 15q15-21.3. There have been no reports of genetic heterogeneity in the syndrome. Following the identification of fibrillin (a glycoprotein component of the extracellular microfibril), immunohistopathological quantification of the protein in skin and fibroblast culture, and examination of fibrillin synthesis, extracellular transport, and incorporation into the extracellular matrix (D. M. Milewicz, R.E.P., E. S. Crawford and P. H. Byers, manuscript in preparation) have demonstrated abnormalities of fibrillin metabolism in most patients. A portion of the complementary DNA encoding fibrillin has been cloned and mapped by in situ hybridization to chromosome 15. Here we report that the fibrillin gene is linked to the Marfan phenotype (theta = 0.00; logarithm of the odds (lod) = 3.9) and describe a de novo missense mutation in the fibrillin gene in two patients with sporadic disease. We thus implicate fibrillin as the protein defective in patients with the Marfan syndrome.
Noninvasive fiber optic sensor for fetal heart rate monitoring

In recent years, a significant amount of clinical research has been devoted to establish relationship between variations in fetal heart rate and abnormal prenatal conditions. For example, it has been shown that the progression of fetal asphyxia is closely linked to recognizable changes in fetal heart rate patterns. Currently, fetal heart rate monitoring is done using either an external ultrasound device, or internal fetal electrocardiogram taken from a scalp electrode placed directly on top of the fetus’ head. Both of these techniques are considered to be invasive, and are therefore not acceptable in situations where long term monitoring of the fetal heart rate is required. Further, the sensors used in these techniques are susceptible to electrical noise and interference. Many noninvasive acoustic sensors lack the sensitivity and frequency response for operation at peak pressures of approximately 50 Pascals between 10 and 60 Hz range suitable for fetal heart rate monitoring. We have developed a fiber optic coupler sensor which is passive, and therefore totally non-invasive. A 2x2 biconical coupler is made by fusion in a microfumace and mounted on an elastic membrane. The light input to the coupler produces two outputs which depend on the coupling coefficient at the fused region. The sensor outputs when it is placed at the chest and the neck of an adult are shown as examples. The sensor output closely resembles a normal electrocardiogram. The sensor is shown to be useful to detect a fetus’ heart-beat; however, a proper filtering technique is needed to eliminate acoustic background produced by other fetal activities such as breathing and movement.
An analytical electron microscopy study of the recently reported “Ti2Al phase” in γ-TiAl alloys

Abstract A variety of experimental techniques has been utilized to establish that the phase reported previously to be a new stable Ti2Al phase (1–3) is instead Ti2AlN. The space group of Ti2AlN has been determined to be P63/mmc with lattice parameters, a = 0.304 nm and c = 1.369 nm, in agreement with the results of Jeitschko, et al. (13). Also, since this phase is observed only in alloys which do not contain α2-Ti3Al, it was suggested that the solubility of N in α2 must be rather large, while that in the γ(TiAl) phase is low. Finally, in light of the improved creep properties of γ alloys containing Ti2AlN precipitates (3), it is suggested that an increase in the volume fraction of this phase, by increasing the N and/or C contents, in these alloys might be used to enhance the mechanical properties of this normally brittle compound.
Self-Assessed Spirituality, Worship Attendance, and HIV-Related Preventive Behaviors among Unmarried Ethnic Minority Adults Living in a High AIDS Prevalence Area

ABSTRACT We assessed how self-assessed spirituality and frequency of worship influenced HIV-preventive behaviors among single minority 18- to 39-year-olds living in high AIDS prevalence areas of Broward County, Florida. Eligible residents participated in telephone surveys conducted in 2001 and 2002. Most (83.8%) said they considered themselves spiritual persons. Many (45.2%) worshipped every week. Most weekly worshippers (66.1%) were sexually active but were less likely to have used a condom in the past year or to have ever been tested for HIV. To improve HIV-preventive behaviors, we collaborate with places of worship and faith-based organizations to provide culturally congruent HIV/AIDS services.
Dynamical phasons in a perfect quasicrystal.

The temperature dependence of x-ray peak intensities of icosahedral AlCuFe is studied in detail. Above 670 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C, measurements of the Debye-Waller factor suggest the presence of dynamical phasons. Softening of the phason modes drives a structural transition at \ensuremath{\sim}670 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C below which the quasicrystal decomposes into coherent micrograins of a lower-symmetry phase. Implications for quasicrystal stability are discussed.
Two year cessation of resident teamwork training impacts trauma resuscitation performance and efficiency

METHODS: This prospective, observational study at a Level I trauma center used trained evaluators who scored team performance via the Trauma Team Performance Observation Tool (TPOT). Efficiency (minutes) data were collected for Emergency Department (ED) dwell times and time to FAST and computed tomography (CT) scan during the same time period TPOT scores were collected. Two year post training was compared to pretraining, post training, and one year post ongoing training periods. For each outcomes variable, the data were rank-transformed and analyzed using the analysis of variance. If p < 0.05, a Dunnett’s Multiple Range Test was performed.
Customer perceptions and sustained usage of recommender systems

Service firms (e.g., Amazon, Netflix) testify that recommender systems earn repeat purchases, reduce customer churn, and sharpen competitive edges. However, little is known about why customers will keep using a company's recommender system. We conceptualise that customer perceptions of accuracy, benevolence and process value may affect sustained usage. We also explored the roles of preference stability and privacy concerns. We surveyed customers who had used recommender systems. Surprisingly, perceptions of benevolence and process value, rather than accuracy, drive sustained usage behaviour. Results fail to support the effects of preference stability or privacy concerns. Implications for research and businesses are discussed.
Using Family-Oriented Treatment to Improve Placement Outcomes for Children and Youth in Residential Treatment

Traditionally, caregivers of children with severe emotional and behavioral disturbances have been excluded from treatment planning, and service providers have often blamed caregivers for children's mental health problems. More recently, an approach to treatment based on Systems of Care has emphasized the importance of including caregivers in every aspect of treatment. This article describes a family-oriented residential treatment program in eastern North Carolina and reports initial results of a pilot study in which caregiver participation is valued and emphasized. Implications for practice, policy, and professional training are discussed.
Many-body theory of chemotactic cell-cell interactions

We consider an individual-based stochastic model of cell movement mediated by chemical signaling fields. This model is formulated using Langevin dynamics, which allows an analytic study using methods from statistical and many-body physics. In particular we construct a diagrammatic framework within which to study cell-cell interactions. In the mean-field limit, where statistical correlations between cells are neglected, we recover the deterministic Keller-Segel equations. Within exact perturbation theory in the chemotactic coupling $ϵ$, statistical correlations are non-negligible at large times and lead to a renormalization of the cell diffusion coefficient ${D}_{R}$---an effect that is absent at mean-field level. An alternative closure scheme, based on the necklace approximation, probes the strong coupling behavior of the system and predicts that ${D}_{R}$ is renormalized to zero at a critical value of $ϵ$, indicating self-localization of the cell. Stochastic simulations of the model give very satisfactory agreement with the perturbative result. At higher values of the coupling simulations indicate that ${D}_{R}\ensuremath{\sim}{ϵ}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$, a result at odds with the necklace approximation. We briefly discuss an extension of our model, which incorporates the effects of short-range interactions such as cell-cell adhesion.
Nursing loved ones with AIDS: Knowledge development for ethical practice

All clinical decisions are ethical decisions in that they are based on some notion of what is good or best in a given situation. Situation-specific knowledge is both essential for effective care an...
Measurement and statistical evaluation of low‐level radioactivity in rocks

Methodology is discussed for detecting and evaluating low levels of radioactivity of rocks, as measured by alpha particle emission. Applications are made to the radioactivity of samples of black shale, which range in activity from 0.94 to 8.96 alpha particles per minute per 1.5-inch diameter circular surface of powdered material. A two factor analysis of variance design with multiple cell entries is used to test for homogeneity of means within a small sampling grid in black shale. Plans to extend this method to a study of regional radioactive variation within a stratigraphic unit are also discussed.
Pesticide prediction in ground water in North Carolina domestic wells using artificial neural networks

Abstract This paper illustrates the application of artificial neural networks (ANN) for prediction of pesticide occurrence in rural domestic wells from the available limited information. Among the three ANN models (a feed-forward back propagation [BP], a radial basis function [RBF] and an adaptive neural network-based fuzzy inference system [ANFIS]) employed for this investigation, the BP neural network was found to be superior to RBF and ANFIS type networks for the detection of pesticide occurrences in wells. For improved model prediction efficiency, optimization of network structure (e.g., number of hidden layers and number of nodes in each hidden layer) and spread (the width of the radial basis function) are important for BP and RBF type of network, respectively. A four layer BP network with a 3:2 neurons ratio of the first hidden layer to the second hidden layer produced better prediction performance efficiencies in terms of the pesticide detection efficiency ( E f ), the root mean square error (RMSE), and the correlation coefficient ( R ) and the overall E f of the BP neural network was found greater than 85%. Sensitivity analysis was performed to measure the relative importance of one input parameter over the other in pesticide occurrence in wells. It was shown in terms of the prediction efficiencies ( E f , RMSE, and R ) of a four-layer BP neural network that the time of sample collection (TSC; month of the year), the depths of wells, and pesticide travel times (PTT) were more important parameters in the prediction of the pesticide occurrences in rural domestic wells. This means that the wells having shallow ground water table are more vulnerable to pesticide occurrence.
Drug entrapment in surfactant vesicles.

Abstract Surfactant vesicles, formed from dioctadecyldimethylammonium chloride, entrapped 8-azaguanine, methotrexate and 6-mercaptopurine in amounts greater than liposomes. Changes in pH and addition of cholesterol influence drug entrapment and release.
Motions of gently sloping ground during earthquakes

[1] During past earthquakes, gently sloping ground surfaces have been observed to shift laterally over areas as large as a few square kilometers. These permanent downward motions have been attributed to temporary and partial reductions in shear strength of soil deposits (e.g., liquefaction), static gravity forces, and transient earthquake shakings. These motions, the amplitudes of which remain challenging to predict, have been frequently modeled using Newmark sliding blocks for ground that is statically stable and occasionally partially or completely loses its shear strength during earthquakes. This paper investigates in more details the deformations of gently sloping ground that becomes temporarily unstable under the combined effects of gravitational forces and earthquake shakings. Using a physical model, we propose two definitions of earthquake contributions to the displacement of gently sloping ground, which may include or not the effects of initial velocity. In both cases, Monte Carlo simulations reveal that motions of gently sloping ground are influenced by pulses of earthquake ground velocity for a wide range of reduction in soil shear strength, even for very severe loss of shear strength. For practical purposes, when large soil deposits become unstable during earthquakes, the analysis concludes that the motions of gently sloping ground are likely influenced by earthquake ground velocity.
Metabolism of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene by mouse mammary cells in serum-free organ culture medium.

Abstract The murine mammary gland is a prime target organ for 7,12-dimetyl-benz-[a]anthracene, (DMBA)-induced carcinogenesis. We analyzed the metabolism of 3 H -DMBA in a cell-free microsomal activation system derived from mouse mammary microsomes and in a whole mammary organs in culture. The i vitro microsomal activation system failed to show the more polar diol derivative of DMBA after HPLC. The metabolites obtained directly from the 3 H -DMBA-treated whole mammary organs, however, revealed the presence of both the diol as well as the phenolic derivatives of DMBA. Analysis of the glands and the culture medium further showed that nearly 95% of the radioactivity added to the culture medium was associated with the adipose tissue and complete solubilization of the fat pad released substantial amounts of DMBA and its metabolites. It appears that a large portion of DMBA and its metabolites remain entrapped in the adipose tissue surrounding the parenchyma. Formic acid digestion of the gland releases the DMBA and the metabolites allowing their ethylacetate extraction, and HPLC characterization.
Design of new antihypertensive drugs: Potent and specific inhibitors of angiotensin-converting enzyme

Abstract The similarity of the biologically important enzyme angiotensin-converting enzyme to the structurally characterized digestive enzyme carboxypeptidase A has led us to develop a hypothetical model of the mechanism of binding of substrates to its active site. In this model, a positively charged group on the enzyme forms an ionic bond with the negatively charged carboxyl group of the substrate; a hydrogen bonding group of the enzyme binds with the terminal peptide bond of the substrate, and the tightly bound zinc ion of the enzyme binds to the penultimate (scissile) peptide bond of the substrate. Succinyl- l -proline (SQ 13,745) was synthesized as a potential inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme by analogy to d -2-benzylsuccinic acid, an inhibitor of carboxypeptidase A; it was a moderately potent but specific inhibitor of the enzyme. Structure-activity studies carried out using the hypothetical model as a guide led to the synthesis of d -2-methyl-succinyl- l -proline (SQ 13,-297) and d -2-methylglutaryl- l -proline (SQ 14,-102), more potent inhibitors of the enzyme that were shown to be orally active in rats. Attempts to replace the zinc-binding carboxyl group of these compounds with groups with greater affinity for zinc have led to the synthesis of extremely potent inhibitors such as 3-mercapto-propanoyl- l -proline (SQ 13,863) and d -3-mercapto-2-methylpropanoyl- l -proline (SQ 14,225). The most active compound, SQ 14,225, is a purely competitive inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme with an enzyme-inhibitor dissociation constant (Ki) of 1.7 × 10−9M. It is an extremely potent and specific inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme and appears to have great potential for the treatment of hypertensive disease.
Airborne Transmission via HVAC of Acute Respiratory Infections in Military Facilities? Review of a Basic Training Cohort Study

Abstract There is great interest in preventing the spread of acute respiratory infections (ARI) in military housing and in other facilities with multiple occupants such as hospitals. There has been some research on the mode of transmission of ARIs in these types of occupancies, with several studies focusing on direct and indirect contact. This study, based on several barracks at the largest basic training facility for the Army in the United States, investigates the role of airborne transmission via heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems as compared to a combination of airborne, indirect contact and direct contact transmission in a room. The results indicate that there is a significant increase in the number of cases which might be attributable to airborne transmission via HVAC systems in several situations, both for ARIs that required hospitalization, and those which did not.
In the thick of it: HCM-causing mutations in myosin binding proteins of the thick filament

In the 20 years since the discovery of the first mutation linked to familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), an astonishing number of mutations affecting numerous sarcomeric proteins have been described. Among the most prevalent of these are mutations that affect thick filament binding proteins, including the myosin essential and regulatory light chains and cardiac myosin binding protein (cMyBP)-C. However, despite the frequency with which myosin binding proteins, especially cMyBP-C, have been linked to inherited cardiomyopathies, the functional consequences of mutations in these proteins and the mechanisms by which they cause disease are still only partly understood. The purpose of this review is to summarize the known disease-causing mutations that affect the major thick filament binding proteins and to relate these mutations to protein function. Conclusions emphasize the impact that discovery of HCM-causing mutations has had on fueling insights into the basic biology of thick filament proteins and reinforce the idea that myosin binding proteins are dynamic regulators of the activation state of the thick filament that contribute to the speed and force of myosin-driven muscle contraction. Additional work is still needed to determine the mechanisms by which individual mutations induce hypertrophic phenotypes.
An examination of the effects of management earnings forecast form and explanations on financial analyst forecast revisions

Abstract Using a sample of 978 quarterly management earnings-per-share forecasts made during the period 1993 to 1999, we document that financial analyst revisions to management earnings forecasts are a function of management forecast form. More precise forecasts (measured three different ways) lead to greater revision of financial analyst consensus EPS forecasts for a given level of unexpected earnings as predicted by Kim and Verrecchia (1991) and Bayesian adjustment models. Also, consistent with our arguments, maximum forecasts are interpreted as bad news by analysts. Our results, while consistent with theory, are inconsistent with recent experimental studies which do not reject the null hypothesis of no effect of management earnings forecast form on the association between unexpected earnings and financial analyst forecast revisions. We also re-examine Baginski, Hassell, and Kimbrough's (2004) finding that attributions used to explain management forecasts affect the reaction to the forecast using analyst data. Consistent with their findings using stock prices, the attribution presence (especially external attributions) increases financial analyst revisions pursuant to management forecasts.
Prevalence of neutropenia in the U.S. population: age, sex, smoking status, and ethnic differences

The authors analyzed blood count data from a national sample of presumably healthy persons. Relative to white participants, black participants had lower leukocyte counts, lower neutrophil counts, a...
Ionic Liquid as a Green Solvent for Lignin

Abstract This study examined the application of select ionic liquids (ILs) as aprotic green solvents for lignin. Dissolution experiments were carried out employing lignin isolated from pine kraft pulp. Up to 20 wt% lignin could be dissolved in [hmim][CF3SO3], [mmim][MeSO4] and [bmim][MeSO4]. For the [bmim]+‐containing ionic liquids, the order of lignin solubility for varying anions was: [MeSO4]−>Cl−∼Br−⋙[PF6]−, indicating that the solubility of lignin was principally influenced by the nature of the anions. Ionic liquids containing large, non‐coordinating anions [PF4]− and [PF6]− were unsuitable as a solvent for lignin. 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses of lignin and model compounds showed that 13C signals using ionic liquid as a solvent were shifted up‐field by δ 0.1 to 1.9 ppm in comparison to 13C NMR data acquired using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the solvent.
Fuzzy vector median based surface smoothing in a haptic environment

This paper proposes a novel approach for smoothing surfaces represented by triangular meshes in a haptic environment. The proposed method is a two-step procedure: surface normal smoothing through fuzzy vector median (FVM) filtering followed by integration of surface normals for vertex position update based on the least absolute error (LAE) criteria. The median and Order Statistic based filters are extensively used in signal processing, especially image processing due to their ability to reject outliers and preserve features such as edges and monotonic regions. More recently, fuzzy ordering theory has been introduced to allow averaging amongst similarly valued samples. This paper extends the fuzzy ordering concept to vector based data and introduces the fuzzy vector median filter The application of FVM filters to surface normal smoothing yields improved results over previously introduced normal smoothing algorithms. The improved filtering results, coupled with LAE vertex position update, produces surface smoothing that minimizes the effects of noise while simultaneously preserving detail features. Simulation results are presented showing the performance of the proposed method and its advantages over commonly used surface smoothing algorithms. Additionally, optimization procedures for FVM are derived and evaluated.
Hearts and minds: psychological factors and the chest pain of cardiac syndrome X.

This editorial refers to “Distinct psychosocial differences between women with coronary heart disease and cardiac syndrome X” 1 by E.A. Asbury et al. on page 1695 The pathophysiology of cardiac syndrome X (CSX, anginal pain and ischaemic-like stress ECG despite angiographically normal coronary arteries) has evolved from a paradigm centred around myocardial ischaemia, via the conceptual bridge of abnormal autonomic neural regulation of the heart, to one based upon neurophysiological differences affecting pain perception.1 The direction of therapeutic strategies has moved in parallel. This development of thinking has brought with it an increased interest in psychological factors. In the present issue of the European Heart Journal , Asbury et al., report an extensive study of psychosocial factors and the ill health of women with CSX, as compared to women with known coronary artery disease (CAD) and normal controls.2 The definition of CSX was strict and included `angiographically smooth coronary arteries'. Asbury et al's principal focus has been (a) the psychological profile of the CSX patients vs. CAD patients and (b) oestrogen status (see below). The principal psychological findings were that patients with CSX patients displayed greater anxiety than CAD patients who, in turn were more anxious than normals. There was an equivalent degree of depression in both patient groups but both were more depressed than normals; both patient groups reported higher total Health Anxiety Questionnaire (HAQ) scores than normals (this relates to worry and preoccupation, fear of illness and life interference). There was a similar prevalence of family history of CAD in both patient groups. There were no differences among the three groups for size of social network. Both patient groups, when they had small social networks, had higher Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) depression and interference with life. There was no difference in the prevalence of … *Correspondence to: Stuart D. Rosen, MD, Department of Cardiology, Ealing Hospital, Uxbridge Road, Middlesex UB1 3HW, UK. Tel.: +44-208-967-5359; fax: +44-208-967-5007 stuart.rosen{at}imperial.ac.uk
Free-energy changes on transfer of surface-active agents between various colloidal and interfacial states

Abstract Marked changes in the various physical properties of systems containing aqueous surfactant solutions, due to the transfer of the surfactant species from one colloidal or interfacial state to another, have been reported in the literature to occur at certain critical surfactant concentrations. An examination of the various processes involving such transfer and the related free-energy changes is made in this work for a better understanding of the mechanisms involved. The values for transfer energy per CH2 group for various phenomena such as micellization, hemimicellization, emulsification, adsorption at the solution-gas interface, adsorption at the solution-hydrocarbon interface, dissolution, and evaporation ranged from −0.6 kT for micellization of ionic surfactants to −2.0 kT for evaporation. These values are discussed in terms of the interactions of the surfactant species while in different states between themselves as well as with the other species in the system. For the calculation of the transfer energy for micellization of ionic surfactants, it was necessary to apply an important correction based on Shinoda's treatment for the “kinetic micelles” containing the counterions.