cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
What are Human Rights? Towards a Non-Subjective Ontology of Human Rights

Many of us passionately believe in universal human rights; however when pressed we cannot justify this belief and may concede that they are simply subjective preferences – little better than “nonsense on stilts”. The justifications we give are inadequate to our beliefs we assert. We could claim that human rights exist because of international conventions. However, if this is so they do not apply to non-signatories, and thus are not universal. Similarly religious justifications cannot create universality unless we assert that people are bound by a deity they do not believe in. Asserting that human rights are just subjective normative evaluations or the cultural norms of one society equally clearly does not create any universal obligation.What is needed is a theory of how human rights could exist in a way that is objective or at least intersubjective. The social ontology of John Searle creates such a possibility. Searle himself has argued that much work needs to be done to develop a coherent theory of human rights based on social fact. This paper explores this possibility.Searle argues that while social institutions are socially constructed (and thus ontologically subjective) they are epistemologically objective. They are thus capable of producing objective obligations. Given certain social institutions, it is possible to use a transcendental argument – given these institutions, certain other norms or institutions are inescapable if the first institutions are to be possible. For example we can show that liberal political institutions only make sense in the presence of certain human rights. (Searle’s distinction between “ought” and “morally ought” is important here – we cannot show any unconditional obligation, as it is always possible to morally reject the institution.)Assuming we can show that human rights are obligatory for liberal societies, the next (far harder) stage is to show in what sense they can be universal. It may well only be possible to show that human rights are obligatory for liberal societies. However, this may be enough to establish a weak form of universality. This would require arguing that liberal societies are obliged to be guided by human rights concerns, even in their dealings with nonliberal societies. This, of course, would require abandoning a strong (Augburgian) conception of sovereignty. It requires a decision to grant standing to foreigners as individuals and not simply as subjects of some sovereign. It can be argued that state already do this in many contexts.
Acute dilation to α2‐adrenoceptor antagonists uncovers dual constriction and dilation mediated by arterial α2‐adrenoceptors

Background and purpose: In mouse tail arteries, selective α2-adrenoceptor antagonism with rauwolscine caused powerful dilation during constriction to the α1-adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine. This study therefore assessed phenylephrine's selectivity at vascular α-adrenoceptors and the mechanism(s) underlying dilation to rauwolscine. Experimental approach: Mouse isolated tail arteries were assessed using a pressure myograph. Key results: The α2-adrenoceptor agonist UK14,304 caused low-maximum constriction that was inhibited by rauwolscine (3 × 10−8 M) but not by the selective α1-adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin (10−7 M). Concentration–effect curves to phenylephrine, cirazoline or noradrenaline were unaffected by rauwolscine but were inhibited by prazosin, which was more effective at high compared with low levels of constriction. In the presence of prazosin, rauwolscine inhibited the curves and was more effective at low compared with high levels of constriction. Although rauwolscine alone did not affect concentration–effect curves to phenylephrine, noradrenaline or cirazoline, it caused marked transient dilation when administered during constriction to these agonists. Dilation was mimicked by another α2-adrenoceptor antagonist (RX821002, 3 × 10−8 M), was dependent on agonist selectivity, and did not occur during adrenoceptor-independent constriction (U46619). During constriction to UK14,304 plus U46619, rauwolscine or rapid removal of UK14,304 caused transient dilation that virtually abolished the combined constriction. Endothelial denudation reduced these dilator responses. Conclusions and implications: Inhibition of α2-adrenoceptors caused transient dilation that was substantially greater than the contribution of α2-adrenoceptors to the constriction. This reflects a slowly reversing α2-adrenoceptor-mediated endothelium-dependent dilation and provides a rapid, sensitive test of α2-adrenoceptor activity. This approach also clearly emphasizes the poor selectivity of phenylephrine at vascular α-adrenoceptors.
Management of Pest Populations by Manipulating Densities of Both Hosts and Parasites Through Periodic Releases

Before a biological control program utilizing the concepts of population manipulation can be undertaken, a great deal of ecological information about the pest species must be known. Of primary concern are such basic, but often unknown, factors such as pest abundance and seasonal distribution and the role natural enemies play in the population regulation of the pest. In-depth studies were undertaken at the USDA Biological Control of Insects Research Laboratory at Columbia, Mo., on the population dynamics of the imported cabbageworm, Pieris rapae (L.) (Parker, 1970). Results of these studies indicated that the indigenous parasites were ineffective in reducing or holding the host population below the economic injury level. Only one parasite, Apanteles glomeratus (L.), was found numerous enough to contribute even partial control of larval stages of this pest, and this species was introduced into the United States from Europe around 1890. Parker (op. cit.) attributed the cause of parasite ineffectiveness to several facts: (1) Populations of A. glomeratus were not synchronized with early spring populations of P. rapae, as parasites emerged approximately two weeks before the host. Apparently, this braconid merely hibernates, with portions of the overwintering population emerging during warm periods in the winter; cocoon masses brought into the laboratory during the winter yielded adults within a few days. The host, on the other hand, enters diapause in late Sept.-Oct., and does not emerge until the following spring. (2) Host density in the first two generations was too low for parasites to increase soon enough and at a rate which could suppress subsequent host populations. In 1967 first generation egg densities of P. rapae were only 1 per 27 plants at its peak and only 1 per 4 plants during the peak of the 2nd egg generation. These peaks were separated by periods that extended to 25 days, with an even lower egg density. Host egg densities in the spring of 1969 were similar (Fig. 1).
Approximate dynamic programming for control of a residential water heater

We formulate the problem of minimizing the operating cost of supplying residential hot water as a discrete-time finite-state Markov decision process. We apply state aggregation to reduce the effective size of the state space and utilize density estimation to obtain an algorithm that is robust to modeling changes in the cost function. We then use approximate policy iteration to obtain an asymptotically optimal solution to the problem when hot water demand is assumed to be independent of previous demand. We also provide heuristics for solving the problem when the demand is not assumed to be independent of its history. To evaluate the performance of the algorithms, we model the thermodynamics of a 20 gal water heater and simulate hot water demand for a typical two-person household. Test results show that when compared to a regular water heater, the ADP solution can reduce water heating costs by as much as 1/3 while maintaining nearly the same level of comfort. In addition, we discuss how the algorithm can be modified to incorporate solar water heating and we consider the related problem of using residential water heaters for load smoothing.
Fractal and Multifractal Approaches to Percolation: Some Exact and Not-So-Exact Results

I feel flattered to be included in such an impressive group of talks by mathematically gifted people. The last rigorous proof that was completely “my own” was in 1968 (Stanley 1968a) and this is now 1986. Hence in accepting Professor Kesten’s kind invitation I assume that my role is to unveil a set of percolation results that—unlike those in “the book” (Kesten 1981)— has not yet reached the stage of completely rigorous proofs. Accordingly, I shall focus mainly on relatively recent developments in percolation theory, some of which almost certainly may be amenable to exact analysis.
Biased Assimilation, Polarization, and Cultural Credibility: An Experimental Study of Nanotechnology Risk Perceptions

We present the results from the second in a series of ongoing experimental studies of public perceptions of nanotechnology risks. Like the first study, the current one found that members of the public, most of whom know little or nothing about nanotechnology, polarize along cultural lines when exposed to information about it. Extending previous results, the current study also found that cultural polarization of this sort interacts with the perceived cultural identities of policy advocates. Polarization along expected lines grew even more extreme when subjects of diverse cultural outlooks observed an advocate whose values they share advancing an argument they were predisposed to accept, and an advocate whose values they reject advancing an argument they were predisposed to resist. But when those same advocates were assigned the opposite positions, subjects formed perceptions of nanotechnology risks diametrically opposed to the ones normally associated with their own cultural predispositions. Finally, when there was no consistent relationship between the perceived values of advocates and positions taken on nanotechnology risk and benefits, cultural polarization was neutralized. The significance of these findings for promotion of informed public understanding of nanotechnology is discussed.
Decoy document deployment for effective masquerade attack detection

Masquerade attacks pose a grave security problem that is a consequence of identity theft. Detecting masqueraders is very hard. Prior work has focused on profiling legitimate user behavior and detecting deviations from that normal behavior that could potentially signal an ongoing masquerade attack. Such approaches suffer from high false positive rates. Other work investigated the use of trap-based mechanisms as a means for detecting insider attacks in general. In this paper, we investigate the use of such trap-based mechanisms for the detection of masquerade attacks. We evaluate the desirable properties of decoys deployed within a user's file space for detection.We investigate the trade-offs between these properties through two user studies, and propose recommendations for effective masquerade detection using decoy documents based on findings from our user studies.
Hepatitis C virus risk behaviors within the partnerships of young injecting drug users

Aims Young injection drug users (IDU) are at high risk for hepatitis C virus (HCV). We sought to determine whether perceiving one's injecting partner to be HCV positive was associated with decreased odds of engaging in receptive needle/syringe sharing (RNS) or ancillary equipment sharing (AES) with that partner. Design Cross sectional study. Setting 2003 to 2007 in San Francisco. Participants 212 young (under age 30) IDU who were HCV antibody negative reported on 492 injecting partnerships. Measurements Self-reported RNS and AES within injecting partnerships. Findings RNS and AES (in the absence of RNS) occurred in 23% and 64% of injecting partnerships in the prior month. The odds of engaging in RNS were significantly lower for relationships in which the participant reported that his/her partner was HCV positive (odds ratio [OR] 0.49; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.25-0.95). This association was attenuated when adjusted for reusing one's own needle/syringe (adjusted OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.28-1.15). The odds of engaging in AES were lower for participants who did not know the HCV status of their partner, only among non-sexual partnerships (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.29-0.76). Conclusions Because perceiving one's partner to be HCV positive was associated with decreased RNS, increased HCV testing and partner disclosure may be warranted. AES was common and was decreased only among non-sexual partnerships in which the HCV status of the partner was not known. This suggests that interventions to reduce AES in young IDU must be widespread.
Sports Participation and Positive Correlates in African American, Latino, and White Girls

The purpose of the study was to examine relations among sports participation and positive correlates across African American, Latino, and White girls. Positive correlate variables were self-perceptions (self-worth, body attractiveness, athletic competence), less depression, and participation in extracurricular activities. The sample comprised 372 girls (mean age = 12.03 years). Data were analyzed using multiple-sample structural equation models, controlling for age and income. Across all ethnic groups, greater sports participation was significantly related to higher self-worth, body attractiveness, and athletic competence, and to more extracurricular activity. Among Latino and White girls only, greater sports participation also was related to less depression. There were significant age and income influences on the positive correlates. Findings confirm the existence of significant relationships between organized sports participation and positive correlates among early adolescent African American, Latino, a...
Potentiation of hormonal responses to hemorrhage and fasting, but not hypoglycemia in conscious adrenalectomized rats.

Bilateral adrenalectomy (ADRX) in rats removes the source of two major stress-responsive hormones, corticosterone and epinephrine. To test how ADRX rats with-stand stress, we performed the following experiments in adult male rats provided with indwelling femoral arterial and venous cannulae and either ADRX or sham-adrenalectomized (Sham) 3 days later and given 0.5% NaCl to drink. Five to 6 days after adrenal surgery the rats were studied after either a 15 ml/kg.5 min hemorrhage or after an overnight fast followed by insulin-induced hypoglycemia. In fed unstressed ADRX rats, basal mean arterial blood pressure was slightly decreased; heart rate was increased; blood volume, vasopressin, and oxytocin concentrations were not different from sham values; and renin and norepinephrine were significantly elevated. The recovery of arterial pressure after hemorrhage in the ADRX rats was similar to that in the sham group over a 5-h period; however, the responses of vasopressin and oxytocin were significantly greater, and those of renin and norepinephrine were markedly potentiated in the ADRX group. Heart rate recovered faster in the ADRX group and was elevated, compared to the sham value, for most of the 5-h period. Restitution of blood volume was attenuated in the ADRX group, although the restitution of plasma protein was not different between the groups. A significant difference in the change in plasma osmolality between groups after hemorrhage may account for the attenuated restitution of blood volume. After an overnight fast, which reduced blood volume in both groups of rats, the plasma renin concentration rose still further in ADRX rats; the differences in other measured variables observed between fed ADRX and sham groups remained the same. The insulin-induced 50% decrease in glucose caused minor effects on arterial blood pressure and heart rate and occasioned responses in renin and norepinephrine of similar magnitudes in the two groups. We conclude that in the absence of the adrenals, rats restore arterial pressure after hemorrhage remarkably well through potentiation of the responses of other vasoactive neural and hormonal systems. In these studies the marked potentiation of the renin response suggests that the renin-angiotensin system may be important in the maintenance of arterial blood pressure after reductions in blood volume.
Optimal Structural Topology of a Platelike Wing for Subsonic Aeroelastic Stability

This work discusses the construction of a Pareto trade-off curve between the flight speed at which a plate-like wing encounters an aeroelastic stability, and the weight of that wing. The thickness of each finite element is utilized as a design variable in order to locate the optimal topological reinforcement as a function of the desired location along the Pareto front, as well as the planform of the wing. Three main challenges are addressed. First, the destabilizing flight speed must be located in an accurate and efficient manner. Secondly, the derivative of the flight speed with respect to a large number of thickness design variables must be computed analytically. Finally, the gradient-based optimization must contend with a discontinuous switch in the critical aeroelastic mode, slowing convergence.
Numerical modeling of free-drainage water samplers in the shallow vadose zone

A finite element model was used to simulate the performance of a free-drainage sampler. This device may be used to collect soil water by free drainage in the shallow vadose zone. A unique feature of this sampling device is that it serves as a barrier to flow and creates a locally saturated region in an otherwise unsaturated system. Steady and unsteady flows were modeled assuming the hydraulic functions of van Genuchten and Gardner. Results include flux into the sampler and distribution of hydraulic head as functions of soil hydraulic properties, background soil flux and sampler size.
Welfare computations and the optimal staging of tariff reductions in models with adjustment costs

Abstract This is an analysis of the second-best problem of choice of tariff level for period two given a positive tariff in period one. The models presented take the allocation of all factors of production except labor as fixed, and allow labor to transfer between industries at a positive cost. The period two tariff may then optimally be set to some positive level. Although these models involve voluntary unemployment, no adjustment to the goods market welfare triangle is necessary to compensate for the adjustment burden in computing the gains from tariff reduction. Lastly, it is shown that a staged reduction of tariffs may be preferred for income distribution reasons to a once-and-for-all reduction.
Possible mechanisms of macrolayer formation

Abstract This paper critically compares the mechanisms proposed for the formation of the liquid-rich macrolayer on heater surfaces during nucleate boiling. These mechanisms include Helmholtz instability analysis applied to vapor stems above active nucleation sites, liquid trapped by lateral coalescence of discrete bubbles that initally form during the mushroom bubble's waiting period, and the limitation of liquid resupply after mushroom departure as a result of vapor flow from active sites.
d-Galactosyltransferase and its endogenous substrates in chick embryo fibroblasts transformed by rous sarcoma virus

Abstract UDP= d -galactose: 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-β- d -glucopyranosyl 4=β- d -galactosyltransferase (GalTase) activity was purified, from primary chick embryo fibroblast (CEF) transformed by a temperature-sensitive, Rous sarcoma virus mutant (CEF-RSV), by chromatography on an affinity resin prepared with monoclonal antibodies to GalTase. Cellular glycopeptides from CEF, as well as CEF-RSV, maintained at permissive (37°) [CEF-RSV (37°)] and nonpermissive temperatures (41°) [CEF-RSV (41°)], were solubilized and galactosylated in vitro by incubation with purified GalTase substrates, composed of at least six discrete complex glycopeptides having bi- to tetra-antennary structures. The glycopeptides isolated from transformed cells, CEF-RSV (37°), included the six types observed in nontransformed cells, but demonstrated alterations in their relative amounts, including an increase in the content of a glycopeptide containing 3 mannose and 4 glucosamine residues. Furthermore, two additional complex-type glycopeptides were isolated from CEF- but demonstrated alterations in their relative amounts, including an increase in the content of a glycopeptide containing 3 mannose and 4 glucosamine residues. Furthermore, two additional complex type glycopeptides were isolated from CEF-RSV (37°). These malignant transformation-related glycopeptides were partially characterized and found to represent tri- and tetra-antennary complex glycopeptides. Endogenous galactosylation appeared to have occurred in a branched, nonspecific manner in these transformed cell-derived glycopeptides. These findings indicate that transformed cells may contain a greater preponderance of more highly branched, complex oligosaccharides which are randomly galactosylated at non-reducing termini by cellular GalTase.
Sonographic Demonstration of Complete Portal Vein Thrombosis

Ultrasound imaging in combination with spectral or color flow Doppler is a valuable tool for the diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis. A case of complete portal vein thrombosis in a woman with a parasitic infection is reported. Findings of examination with ultrasound, computed tomography, and angiography are discussed.
Standard Deviation of Launch Vehicle Vibration and Acoustic Environments

Statistical analyses are used for the development of the acoustic, vibration, and shock environments on launch vehicles. The standard deviation of these environments is critical for deriving accurate statistical extrema. However, often very little measured data exist in order to define the standard deviation. In many cases, the use of a typical standard deviation is better than the use of one derived from a few measurements. Extensive Space Shuttle Program and Expendable Launch Vehicle flight data are used in this paper to define a typical standard deviation for acoustics and random vibrations. The results suggest that, in the absence of sufficient data, 3 dB is a practical selection for the standard deviation of these environments. Further, the data are used to show that a standard deviation of 3 dB should be used for cases in which there are less than five data sets because there is not enough information to supersede the 3 dB estimate.
High-resolution study of 70Ge

Abstract Inelastic proton spectra from the 70 Ge(p, p′) reaction at 7.0 MeV have been studied with a 65 cm broad-range magnetic spectrograph. The scattered background was reduced by using 0.4 × 8mm slit targets, and an energy resolution of FWHM = 5.5 keV was achieved. Many closely spaced levels were observed up to 4.1 MeV excitation including a 3.4 keV doublet at 2.16 MeV. Level energies have been determined to ±2 keV or better by combining these precise level separations with γ-ray measurements from the 70 Ge(p, p′γ) reaction and the 70 As(γ) 70 Ge decay obtained with a 20 cm 3 Ge(Li)-NaI(Tl) coincidence-anticoincidence spectrometer. Available information concerning J π assignments for levels up to 3.1 MeV is summarized. Comparison of (p, p′) yields at 50° and 90° combined with relative (p, p′) cross sections provide evidence for probable J = 0 states at 2.31, 2.89 and 3.11 MeV. The octupole 3 1 -state is assigned at 2562 keV on the basis of its prominent yield at E p = 10 MeV. The 2 2 + (E2)0 2 + transition has been observed in 70 Ge with a B (E2) value which is a factor of 14±2 larger than that for the 2 2 + (E2)0 1 + transition. A nuclear temperature T = 0.7±0.1 MeV was derived from the present data.
High-throughput bioanalytical LC/MS/MS determination of benzodiazepines in human urine: 1000 samples per 12 hours.

The analytical capabilities of liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for sensitive and highly selective determination of target compounds in complex biological samples makes it well suited for high-throughput analysis. We report the fast separation of six benzodiazepines isolated from human urine via selected reaction monitoring liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry using short dwell times to accommodate fast-eluting chromatographic peaks. The analytes were extracted from human urine samples along with their deuterium-labeled internal standards by a simple liquid−liquid extraction in 96-well plates. Using four autosamplers coupled to one chromatographic column and one tandem mass spectrometer operated in the turbo ion spray mode with positive ion detection, 1152 samples (12 96-well plates) were analyzed in less than 12 h. Through an electronic switching box designed and constructed in-house, the autosamplers were synchronized with the mass spectrometer so that injections were made as soon as th...
Are extreme halophiles actually “bacteria”?

Comparative cataloging of the 16S rRNA of Halobacterium halobium indicates that the organism did not arise, as a halophilic adaptation, from some typical bacterium. Rather, H. halobium is a member of the Archaebacteria, an ancient group of organisms that are no more related to typical bacteria than they are to eucaryotes.
Further clarification of the contribution of the ADH1C gene to vulnerability of alcoholism and selected liver diseases

The alcohol dehydrogenase 1C (ADH1C) subunit is an important member of the alcohol dehydrogenase family, a set of genes that plays a major role in the catabolism of ethanol. Numerous association studies have provided compelling evidence that ADH1C gene variation (formerly ADH3) is associated with altered genetic susceptibility to alcoholism and alcohol-related liver disease, cirrhosis, or pancreatitis. However, the results have been inconsistent, partially, because each study involved a limited number of subjects, and some were underpowered. Using cumulative data over the past two decades, this meta-analysis (6,796 cases and 6,938 controls) considered samples of Asian, European, African, and Native American origins to examine whether the aggregate genotype provide statistically significant evidence of association. The results showed strong evidence of association between ADH1C Ile350Val (rs698, formerly ADH1C *1/*2) and alcohol dependence (AD) and abuse in the combined studies. The overall allelic (Val vs. Ile or *2 vs. *1) P value was 1 × 10−8 and odds ratio (OR) was 1.51 (1.31, 1.73). The Asian populations produced stronger evidence of association with an allelic P value of 4 × 10−33 [OR 2.14 (1.89, 2.43)] with no evidence of heterogeneity, and the dominant and recessive models revealed even stronger effect sizes. The strong evidence remained when stricter criteria and sub-group analyses were applied, while Asians always showed stronger associations than other populations. Our findings support that ADH1C Ile may lower the risk of AD and alcohol abuse as well as alcohol-related cirrhosis in pooled populations, with the strongest and most consistent effects in Asians.
Strong consistency in nonlinear regression with multipucative error

Sufficient conditions are given to ensure the existence of a sequence of strongly consistent estimators of the true parameter for a nonlinear regression model naving random regressors and a multiplicative disturbance term. Special cases of this result include the least absolute value and the least squares estimation procedures.
The ethical responsibilities of references

Unethical behavior by journal authors is rare, but some referees of manuscripts shirk their duties. Referees have ethical responsibilities to review manuscripts promptly, to write constructive comments for authors, to be tactful in their comments, and to avoid sectarian bias. An ethical question to which there is no agreed-upon answer is what to do when asked to review a paper that one has already reviewed for another journal.
Excess volumes for n-alkanols + n-alkanes II. Binary mixtures of n-pentanol, n-hexanol, n-octanol, and n-decanol + n-heptane☆

Abstract Measurements of excess volumes at 298.15 K in a successive dilution dilatometer are reported for binary mixtures of the n -alkanols C 5 , C 6 , C 8 , and C 10 + n -heptane. All the excess volume curves are sigmoid but the region of positive values of the excess volume decreases markedly with increasing length of the alkanol molecule, and for n -decanol+ n -heptane is limited to mole fractions of alkanol less than 0.03. Partial molar excess volumes of the components were calculated for each mixture and their values at infinite dilution were estimated.
Grism-Based Pulse Shaper for Line-by-Line Control of More than 600 Comb Lines

We construct a line-by-line pulse shaper using a grism dispersive element and achieve control of over six hundred 21 GHz comb lines. The 13.4 THz bandwidth is the largest ever controlled in a line-by-line manner.
Predictors of Peer Victimization among Urban Youth

This study examined aggression and withdrawal as predictors of peer victimization. In addition, peer rejection was evaluated as both a moderator and mediator of these relations. The sample consisted of 1956 African-American, Hispanic, and White elementary school-aged boys and girls attending urban and inner-city schools that were classified as high or moderate disadvantage. Correlation and regression analyses revealed that aggression predicted both contemporaneous and longitudinal victimization by peers. This relation maintained across school disadvantage, ethnicity, age, and sex, andwas mediated by rejection. Withdrawal, mediated by rejection, predicted victimization for fourth graders only; withdrawal also reduced risk for victimization for low rejected children. The implications for understanding the dynamics of childhood victimization and intervention are discussed.
Slope estimation in noisy piecewise linear functions

This paper discusses the development of a slope estimation algorithm called MAPSlope for piecewise linear data that is corrupted by Gaussian noise. The number and locations of slope change points (also known as breakpoints) are assumed to be unknown a priori though it is assumed that the possible range of slope values lies within known bounds. A stochastic hidden Markov model that is general enough to encompass real world sources of piecewise linear data is used to model the transitions between slope values and the problem of slope estimation is addressed using a Bayesian maximum a posteriori approach. The set of possible slope values is discretized, enabling the design of a dynamic programming algorithm for posterior density maximization. Numerical simulations are used to justify choice of a reasonable number of quantization levels and also to analyze mean squared error performance of the proposed algorithm. An alternating maximization algorithm is proposed for estimation of unknown model parameters and a convergence result for the method is provided. Finally, results using data from political science, finance and medical imaging applications are presented to demonstrate the practical utility of this procedure. HighlightsA hidden Markov model formulation for estimating slopes in a noisy piecewise linear function is proposed.A computationally tractable dynamic programming routine on a linearly growing trellis for fast maximum a posteriori estimation is developed.Optimality analysis of this routine via simulations and a comparison with reasonable upper and lower bounds is presented.An alternating maximization algorithm to estimate unknown model parameters from data is also derived.Results show that the algorithm is general enough to encompass different applications.
Stereo-thresholds: simultaneity, target proximity and eye movements.

Abstract Stereo-thresholds are much higher when adjacent targets are presented without temporal overlap than when they are shown simultaneously. Sequentially presented adjacent targets also evoke small involuntary eye movements toward the newly presented target. Neither of these phenomena is evident with widely separated targets; for sequential presentation of targets 10° apart, stereo-thresholds are only slightly higher (a factor of about 1.5) than for simultaneous presentation; and stable fixation can be maintained. If the differing influence of simultaneity on stereoacuity for adjacent and for widely separated targets arises because adjacent alternating targets evoke eye movements, that effect is apparently not mediated exclusively by displacement of retinal images due to the measured eye movements. It could, however, be due to a general long-term instability of fixation associated with repetitive small involuntary eye movements.
Generalized Paul-Koch basis functions

The set of piecewise-linear (PL) basis function described by Paul and Koch is generalized to a class of functions providing piecewise approximation with n continuous derivatives and generated by multiple integration of Walsh functions.
Optical index profile at an antiparallel ferroelectric domain wall in lithium niobate

Unexpected optical contrast at antiparallel domain walls is observed in non-stoichiometric lithium niobate. This is imaged using near-field scanning optical microscopy. A detailed modeling of the imaging process is performed, and a comparison of the experimental and simulation images is used to extract the index profile across a single antiparallel domain wall.
Aggregation of smooth preferences

Suppose p is a smooth preference profile (for a society, N) belonging to a domain P N . Let σ be a voting rule, and σ(p)(x) be the set of alternatives in the space, W, which is preferred to x. The equilibrium E(σ(p)) is the set {x∈W:σ(p)(x) is empty}. A sufficient condition for existence of E(σ(p)) when p is convex is that a “dual”, or generalized gradient, dσ(p)(x), is non-empty at all x. Under certain conditions the dual “field”, dσ(p), admits a “social gradient field”Γ(p). Γ is called an “aggregator” on the domain P N if Γ is continuous for all p in P N . It is shown here that the “minmax” voting rule, σ, admits an aggregator when P N is the set of smooth, convex preference profiles (on a compact, convex topological vector space, W) and P N is endowed with a C 1-topology. An aggregator can also be constructed on a domain of smooth, non-convex preferences when W is the compact interval. The construction of an aggregator for a general political economy is also discussed. Some remarks are addressed to the relationship between these results and the Chichilnisky-Heal theorem on the non-existence of a preference aggregator when P N is not contractible.
A Field Test of Tubino's (1991) Model of Alternate Bar Formation

This study investigates the fluvial dynamics of straight natural stream channels. In particular, this experimental field study quantitatively assesses a physically based non-linear mathematical theory of alternate bar formation under unsteady natural flow conditions within a straight alluvial stream. The study site is an artificially straightened section of the Embarras River located approximately 16 km south of Champaign, Illinois. Data were collected on channel form, gradient, alternate bar dimensions, bed sediment size and flow stage over a 2 year study period. Both linear and non-linear steady flow hydrodynamic theories suggest that alternate bars are critical to the process of meander development. But these theories do not predict bar development for unsteady flow conditions, which typically occur in natural alluvial channels. Tubino (1991) suggests that bar evolution for a flood hydrograph can be divided into three parts: (1) a period of limited bar growth during the rising stage of the flood; (2) a stage of modest bar decay near the peak of the flood; and (3) a stage of non-linear bar growth during the prolonged falling stage of the flood. Bars developed during the falling limb of a hydrograph, and exhibited sequential development rather than the uniform growth along the reach predicted by Tubino's model. As flow stage decreased, short, low, fine-grained bars were superimposed on long, high and coarser-grained bars that developed under preceding high flow stages. These results suggest that the process of bar formation in artificially straightened natural streams with heterogeneous bed material may occur under different flow conditions and in a different manner than predicted by theoretical models. Further work should focus on attempting to isolate the physical mechanisms responsible for alternate bar formation in straight natural streams with heterogeneous bed material and flashy hydrologic flow regimes.
Glioma Tropic Neural Stem Cells Consist of Astrocytic Precursors and Their Migratory Capacity Is Mediated by CXCR4

Malignant gliomas spawn disseminated microsatellites, which are largely refractory to currently employed therapies, resulting in eventual tumor recurrence and death. The use of tumor-tropic neural stem cells (NSCs) as delivery vehicles for therapeutic gene products represents an attractive strategy specifically focused at treating these residual neoplastic foci. We wished to elucidate the biological cues governing NSC tropism for glioma. In this context, we describe that tumor-tropic NSCs comprise largely of astrocytic progenitors expressing chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4). Blocking of CXCR4 significantly inhibits NSC migration toward the tumor. These findings define specific characteristics associated with the cell populations within transplanted NSCs that demonstrate glioma-tracking behavior.
Accuracy of topographic maps derived from ERS-1 interferometric radar

An interferometric radar technique for topographic mapping of surfaces promises a high-resolution approach to the generation of digital elevation models. The authors present analyses of data collected by the synthetic aperture radar instrument on-board the ERS-1 satellite on successive orbits. Use of a single satellite in a nearly repeating orbit is attractive for reducing cost and spaceborne hardware complexity; also it permits inference of changes in the surface from the correlation properties of the radar echoes. The data have been reduced to correlation maps and digital elevation models. The correlation maps show that temporal correlation decreases significantly with time, but not necessarily at a constant well-defined rate, likely depending on environmental factors. When correlation among passes remains high, however, it is possible to form digital elevation models. Analyses of noise expected in ERS-1 interferometric data collected over Alaska and the southwestern United States indicate that maps with relative errors less than 5 m rms are possible in some regions. However, orbit uncertainties imply that tie points are required in order to reduce absolute height errors to a similar magnitude. The authors find that about 6 tie points per 40/spl times/40 km scene with 5 m rms or better height accuracy are needed to keep systematic map height errors below 5 m rms. The performance of the ERS-1 radar system for topographic applications, though useful for a variety of regional and local discipline studies, may be improved with respect to temporal decorrelation errors and absolute height acuity by modifying the orbit repeat period and incorporating precise orbit determination techniques. The resulting implementation will meet many, but not all, objectives of a global mapping mission. >
Vena Cava Filter Practices of a Regional Vascular Surgery Society

Background Vena cava filter (VCF) use in the United States has increased dramatically with prophylactic indications for placement and the availability of low-profile retrievable devices, which are overtaking the filter market. We surveyed the practice patterns of a large group of vascular surgeons from a regional vascular surgery society to see whether they mirrored current national trends. Methods A 17-question online VCF survey was offered to all members of the Southern Association of Vascular Surgery. The responses were analyzed using the χ 2 goodness of fit tests. Results Of the 276 members surveyed, 126 (46%) responded, with 118 (93%) indicating that they placed filters during their practice. Highly significant differences were identified with each question (at least P Conclusions Although VCF insertion overall appears safe, some complications are specific to biconical and certain retrievable filters. Given the low removal rate and lack of long-term experience with retrievable filters, routine use of these devices as permanent filters should be questioned. If used on a temporary basis, there should be a plan for filter removal at the time of implantation.
Detection of Myocardial Injury after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Using a Hypothermic, Cardioplegic Technique

Abstract Fifty patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting procedures using a clear, cold cardioplegic solution, topical hypothermia, and reduced systemic flow for intraoperative myocardial protection were evaluated for myocardial injury by serial plasma creatine kinase–MB isoenzyme (CK-MB) measurements and electrocardiograms. Forty-one (82%) of the patients had three-vessel disease. Preoperative left ventricular contractility determined angiographically was normal in 13 patients (26%), mildly abnormal in 26 (52%), and moderately or severely abnormal in 11 (22%). The number of arteries grafted ranged from 2 to 6 (mean, 3.5). The mean duration of aortic clamping was 38.6 ± 1.6 minutes. There were no hospital deaths. Enzymatic and electrocardiographic (ECG) evidence of myocardial infarction occurred in 1 patient. Nonspecific ECG changes occurred in 16 patients (32%), and the electrocardiograms were unchanged in the remaining 33 patients (66%). In the 49 patients without ECG evidence of infarction, the mean peak plasma CK-MB value, which occurred 6 hours after the onset of cardiopulmonary bypass, was 7.9 ± 0.8 IU/L (standard error of the mean) and the mean integrated area 158 ± 19.5 IU/L × hours. There was no correlation between these CK-MB values and the extent of disease, number of arteries grafted, or the duration of myocardial ischemia. These data document a low incidence of perioperative myocardial injury with this technique, and can serve as a baseline for comparison with other techniques for intraoperative myocardial protection in this setting.
Perspective and engagement in counseling and psychotherapy: The phenomenological approach

A phenomenological view of counseling and psychotherapy is introduced via a consideration of Freudian and Rogerian approaches to these activities. Both the Freudian and Rogerian approaches are seen to be based on an attempted disengagement between therapist and client. This attempted disengagement is found in the invalidation of the client's perpective by the therapist. The ackowledgment of the validity of the perspective of both therapist and client, and of the engagement resulting from the meeting of perspectives in interation, is the basis for counseling and psychotherapy from a phenomenological approach.
Telemetered in vivo strain analysis of locomotor mechanics of brachiating gibbons

The slender elongated form that is characteristic of the forelimb long bones of gibbons (Hylobates) has long been attributed to their functional adaptation to habitual armswinging locomotion, although potential selective advantages of this morphology for brachiation have yet to be demonstrated. If the forces exerted on the limb skeleton during brachiation indeed differ greatly from those of other locomotor modes, then the changes in skeletal loading accompanying a shift in locomotor behaviour could favour alterations in skeletal morphology in brachiating lineages. In vivo skeletal strain patterns recorded by using radiotelemetry during brachiation indicate that the forelimb bones of the gibbon are loaded in substantial tension and show reduced bending and compression in comparison with those of other mammals. We suggest that this unique loading regime could have contributed to the evolution of the distinctive morphology of hylobatid limbs.
Cardiovascular recovery following bariatric surgery in extremely obese adolescents: preliminary results using Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) Imaging

Abstract Purpose Baseline cardiovascular characteristics and longitudinal changes following weight loss surgery (WLS) in adolescents are not well defined. Recent data suggest that the use of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) for preoperative cardiac assessment may provide suboptimal imaging fidelity secondary to excessive upper body adiposity. High fidelity imaging using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is an extremely useful diagnostic tool. We report the use of CMR in a cohort of extremely obese adolescents undergoing WLS. Methods A retrospective analysis of adolescent WLS patients at a single institution was conducted. Data collection included mean age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and CMR measurements of left ventricular (LV) mass, LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), ejection fraction (EF), and myocardial perfusion reserve index (MPRI). Comparison of CMR results to normative data derived from lean subjects was performed. Results Ten subjects (9 female), with a mean age and BMI of 17.4±1.9years and 50.33±10.21kg/m 2 respectively, were studied. When compared to age, gender, and height matched normal weight (NW) controls, the obese (OB) subjects had evidence of increased LV mass (122±25g vs. 101±10g, OB vs. NW respectively, p Conclusion Extreme adolescent obesity is associated with significant cardiovascular abnormalities that include LV hypertrophy (i.e. increased LV mass) and LV dilatation. These findings, considered to be well-recognized cardiovascular disease risk factors in adults, were shown to be reversible after WLS in the small group of subjects studied here. Additional large-scale investigations designed to examine obesity-related cardiovascular disease in severely obese adolescents are required.
Freeze‐dried turkey muscle II.—Role of haem pigments as catalysts in the autoxidation of lipid constituents

A study by reflectance spectroscopy of the haem compounds of turkey breast and leg muscle showed that the structure of the main component, myoglobin, changed during the freeze-drying process to form a low-spin complex, ferromyochromagen. Ferrimyoglobin, either present in fresh muscle or introduced as an oxidation product during dehydration, forms the corresponding ferrimyochromagen. During storage in the freeze-dried state the iron complexes do not catalyse the autoxidation of unsaturated lipids. When freeze-dried muscle is rehydrated to a water content not less than 50% of that of fresh muscle, a proportion of the haem pigment is present in the form of a high-spin complex, metmyoglobin, which catalyses autoxidation of unsaturated lipids in the rehydrated muscle.
Voltage SAG/SWELL mitigation using AC chopper

A new topology is proposed here to compensate voltage sags in power systems. One of the major power quality issues encountered by industries is the voltage sag. To compensate sag, a new topology is designed without storage device. This sag adjuster is capable of compensating deep and long duration voltage sag. The sag adjuster of each phase derives power from other two phases. The sag occurring in single-phase is compensated by sag adjuster; it is realized with two ac chopper circuits. By controlling the firing angle of each ac chopper, the required voltage is obtained to compensate for the voltage sag. Simulation of proposed topology is done. The results are comply with IEC standard.
Surface Elastic Effects in Premetered Coating Techniques

The effect of the dilational surface elasticity e on coating was investigated in two-layer slide coatings and single-layer slot and curtain coating experiments, respectively, up to 2 m/s. In the slide experiments both the surfactant concentration and e were varied in the lower layer. While the position of the static contact line (SCL) is a function of the elasticity modulus e, the dynamic contact line (DCL) position is insensitive to this variable. Also, the vacuum range increases with increasing the modulus e. Best correlations were obtained when e was measured at 1−2 Hz with a longitudinal wave generator. In curtain coating, the curtain edges can be stabilized and the wet thickness decreased by increasing the elasticity e. Also, in slot coating experiments the minimum wet thickness correlates with e as well. The modulus that best characterizes these coating techniques was determined at 0.1−0.2 Hz by means of a Langmuir trough.