cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterizing Dynamic Crack-Resistance of Pipelines Using Laboratory-Scale Practices

The consequences of a dynamic fracture in a gas-transmission pipeline require that they be designed to avoid such incidents with great certainty. Because of the complexity of this fracture process, the only certain approach to determine fracture-arrest conditions involved full-scale experiments. As time passed empirically calibrated balance equations between the crack-driving conditions and the line-pipe steels crack-arrest capabilities were developed. Such models worked well until the introduction of high-toughness line pipe, for which to full-scale test predictions were non-conservative, and increasingly so as toughness increased. Problems with early CVN-based models led to development of alternative schemes.This paper presents results of experiments done to evaluate plausible alternatives to the CVN practice, which rely on an impact test identical to or adapted from the drop-weight tear-test (DWTT). As this practice is comparable to that of the CVN practice save for using an up-scale specimen geometry, results are presented and contrasted for these test methods, for pipe grades from B to X70, and toughness from less than 10 J in excess of 300 J. Data are analyzed to reveal trends not typically reported for such testing. It is shown that there is no essential difference between data developed from the CVN and DWTT practices, provided the results are compared at similar levels of impact-machine excess-energy capacity. Further, it is shown that non-conservative predictions of full-scale test behavior for higher-toughness steels can be traced to using the early CVN-based models at toughness levels well outside the range of their empirical calibration.Copyright © 2000 by ASME
Randomized path planning for redundant manipulators without inverse kinematics

We present a sampling-based path planning algorithm capable of efficiently generating solutions for high-dimensional manipulation problems involving challenging inverse kinematics and complex obstacles. Our algorithm extends the rapidly-exploring random tree (RRT) algorithm to cope with goals that are specified in a subspace of the manipulator configuration space through which the search tree is being grown. Underspecified goals occur naturally in arm planning, where the final end effector position is crucial but the configuration of the rest of the arm is not. To achieve this, the algorithm bootstraps an optimal local controller based on the transpose of the Jacobian to a global RRT search. The resulting approach, known as Jacobian transpose-directed rapidly exploring random trees (JT-RRTs), is able to combine the configuration space exploration of RRTs with a workspace goal bias to produce direct paths through complex environments extremely efficiently, without the need for any inverse kinematics. We compare our algorithm to a recently-developed competing approach and provide results from both simulation and a 7 degree-of-freedom robotic arm.
Can slack curb slacking?: Examining the importance of team communication in reducing social loafing

Social loafing is one of the biggest challenges in group projects. Previous research has pointed to the importance of communication quality in the reduction of social loafing. This study examines how the use of a team communication application, Slack, influences communication quality and social loafing. The results of the preliminary data indicate that the use of Slack significantly improved communication accuracy and appropriateness. Subsequently, the use of Slack significantly reduced social loafing. Further research with a larger sample and experimental research design should be conducted to further explore these results.
Pedigreed mutant library-a unique resource for sorghum improvement and genomics

Sorghum is a versatile crop used for food, feed, fodder, and biofuel. Because of its resilience to environmental stresses and low soil fertility, sorghum is becoming increasingly important in meeting the growing need for food and energy in the face of declining arable land and fresh water resources. Low grain yield and poor nutritional quality are two major limiting factors for sorghum production. New resources are needed to overcome these limits. We have developed a pedigreed mutant library in BTx623, the inbred line for generating the reference genome sequence. The library consists of 6400 M4 seed pools, each of which was derived from an independent M1 seed through singleseed descent. The mutant library displays a wide range of visible phenotypes, and many are beneficial traits that have potential to be used as breeding materials to improve grain yield and quality. A selection of 256 lines was sequenced to 16x coverage of the whole genome. More than 1.8 million canonical ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS)-induced guanine/cytosine to adenosine/thymine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were discovered, covering 94% of the genes in the sorghum genome. Over 57% of the genes carry large effect mutations that may alter the function of the gene product. In comparison with natural variations, 97.5% of the EMS-induced mutations are novel. Thus, the pedigreed mutant library can serve as a unique resource for selection of novel agronomic traits and identifying their causal mutations for sorghum improvement and for elucidating gene function through isolation of mutant series for the traits of interest.
Age-dependent shift in macrophage polarisation causes inflammation-mediated degeneration of enteric nervous system

Objective The enteric nervous system (ENS) undergoes neuronal loss and degenerative changes with age. The cause of this neurodegeneration is poorly understood. Muscularis macrophages residing in close proximity to enteric ganglia maintain neuromuscular function via direct crosstalk with enteric neurons and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of GI motility disorders like gastroparesis and postoperative ileus. The aim of this study was to assess whether ageing causes alterations in macrophage phenotype that contributes to age-related degeneration of the ENS. Design Longitudinal muscle and myenteric plexus from small intestine of young, mid-aged and old mice were dissected and prepared for whole mount immunostaining, flow cytometry, Luminex immunoassays, western blot analysis, enteric neural stem cell (ENSC) isolation or conditioned media. Bone marrow derived macrophages were prepared and polarised to classic (M1) or alternative (M2) activation states. Markers for macrophage phenotype were measured using quantitative RT-PCR. Results Ageing causes a shift in macrophage polarisation from anti-inflammatory ‘M2’ to proinflammatory ‘M1’ that is associated with a rise in cytokines and immune cells in the ENS. This phenotypic shift is associated with a neural response to inflammatory signals, increase in apoptosis and loss of enteric neurons and ENSCs, and delayed intestinal transit. An age-dependent decrease in expression of the transcription factor FoxO3, a known longevity gene, contributes to the loss of anti-inflammatory behaviour in macrophages of old mice, and FoxO3-deficient mice demonstrate signs of premature ageing of the ENS. Conclusions A shift by macrophages towards a proinflammatory phenotype with ageing causes inflammation-mediated degeneration of the ENS.
“Turn on” fluorescence response of monomethine cyanines caused by noncovalent binding to ct-DNA

Abstract Monomethine cyanines have been extensively studied for their use as probes for nucleic acids among other biological systems. Four monomethine cyanine dyes were synthesized with various heterocyclic moieties including quinoline, benzoxazole, benzothiazole, and 3,3-dimethylindolenine adjoining benz[ c,d ]indol-1-ium, which was found to directly influence their optical and energy profiles. The dyes were characterized by 1 H and 13 C NMR and HRMS. In this study the twisted conformation unique to monomethine cyanines was exploited in DNA binding studies where the benzoxazole containing sensor displayed up to 700-fold increase in fluorescence when bound to the DNA compared to the unbound form.
Oxytetracycline does not cause growth promotion in finfish

Until recently, use of antibiotics to enhance terrestrial animal growth performance was a common, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, but controversial practice. There are no FDA-approved production claims for antibiotic drug use in fish, but it is a common misconception that antibiotics are widely used for this purpose in U.S. aquaculture. Antibiotics are not thought to be effective growth promoters in fish, but there is little quantitative data available to address whether there are growth-promoting effects that might incentivize the use of antibiotics in this way, despite legal prohibitions. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine if oral administration of oxytetracycline, an antibiotic with known growth-promoting effects in terrestrial livestock, has a similar effect when applied to channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus, hybrid striped bass Morone chrysops × M. saxatilis, Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus, or rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss. Oxytetracycline products with production claims are typically applied at doses substantially lower than the approved therapeutic doses for the same products. Medication (0, 0.24, or 1.2 g oxytetracycline dihydrate kg-1 feed) and feeding rates (3% BW d-1) were selected to achieve target daily doses of 0, 16, or 80 mg kg-1 fish representing control, subtherapeutic, and therapeutic treatments. Replicate groups of fish (N = 4) were fed accordingly for 8 wk. Overall, oral administration of oxytetracycline did not affect survival or promote growth of the selected taxa, with no significant differences observed for weight gain, feed conversion ratio, or specific growth rate (P > 0.05 in all cases). Few differences were observed in organosomatic indices and in the frequency of tissue abnormalities; where present, these differences tended to suggest a negative effect of long-term dietary exposure to oxytetracycline. These data demonstrate that there is no benefit to dietary supplementation with oxytetracycline for nontherapeutic purposes in a range of economically important finfish species. As such, our results indicate there is little incentive to misuse oxytetracycline products for purposes of growth promotion in U.S. aquaculture.
Bortezomib (PS-341): a novel, first-in-class proteasome inhibitor for the treatment of multiple myeloma and other cancers.

BackgroundMultiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable malignancy that is diagnosed in approximately 15,000 people in the United States each year. The novel proteasome inhibitor bortezomib has shown antit...
Recognizing Built-In Gain on Contribution to a Partnership

Section 721 generally allows nonrecognition of the built-in gain on a contribution of appreciated property to a partnership. This proposal would require recognition of gain on property at the value set by the bargain and allow recognition of loss when the partnership is not related. It would allow deferred payment of tax on nonmarketable assets, computed at the time of contribution, but would require interest at an appropriate rate. Recognition of gain would end current abuses, including diversification of investments without tax in swap funds and a step-up in depreciable basis without recognition on the other side. Given the nation’s revenue needs, tax on the contribution exchange is merited.The proposal is offered as a part of the Shelf Project, a collaboration of tax professionals to develop proposals to raise revenue without a VAT or a rate increase. Shelf Project proposals raise revenue, while making the tax system more efficient and reducing deadweight loss. Shelf Projects follow the format of a congressional tax writing committee report in explaining current law, what is wrong with it, and how to fix it.
Occupation and task as risk factors for asthma-related outcomes among healthcare workers in New York City

Abstract Background Previous studies have suggested an association of asthma onset and exacerbation with cleaning and disinfecting activities in a number of industries, including healthcare. The objective of the current study was to investigate the association of asthma and related outcomes with occupations and tasks in urban healthcare workers in the United States. Methods A questionnaire was implemented in a sample of workers from nine healthcare occupations in New York City. We used regression models to examine the association of post-hire asthma, current asthma, exacerbation of asthma, a symptom algorithm for bronchial hyper-responsiveness (BHR-related symptoms), a symptom-based asthma score, and the symptom wheeze with occupation and four healthcare tasks, while adjusting for other risk factors and potential confounders. Results A total of 2030 participants completed the questionnaire. The task of cleaning fixed surfaces was significantly associated with most outcome variables, including current asthma (odds ratio (OR) = 1.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.26–2.68), moderate exacerbation (OR = 3.10, 95% CI 1.25–7.67), and BHR-related symptoms (OR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.08–1.77). In comparison to nursing assistants, the occupations environmental service workers and registered nurses were at higher risk for current asthma, and licensed practical nurses were at higher risk for moderate exacerbation. Other tasks associated with outcomes were administering aerosolized medications with current asthma and moderate exacerbation, and sterilizing medical equipment with BHR-related symptoms. Conclusions These findings add to the growing body of evidence for the association of asthma with cleaning and other activities in healthcare. Further research is especially needed to investigate the association of asthma-related outcomes with exposure metrics based on tasks, products, and chemical exposures in healthcare.
Algae support populations of heterotrophic, nitrifying, and phosphate-accumulating bacteria in the treatment of poultry litter anaerobic digestate

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate the impact that algae have on bacterial treatment of poultry litter slurry anaerobic digestate. We hypothesized that algae could provide benefits to heterotrophic and nitrifying organisms, due in part to provision of dissolved oxygen. No other studies, to our knowledge, have shown that algae provide benefits to nitrifying bacteria in the treatment of anaerobic digestates. Batch cultures of the native digestate community were grown alone or with the addition of activated sludge microorganisms and/or the green algae, Chlorella sorokiniana. Water quality measurements, 16S rRNA sequencing, and quantitative PCR were utilized to elucidate the impacts of algae on bacterial populations involved in organics removal and nutrient cycling. The presence of activated sludge promoted algal growth by 29%, nitrogen uptake by 53%, and phosphate removal by 21%. In turn, the presence of algae promoted a 57% increase in organics removal by heterotrophic bacteria. Algae also promoted full oxidation of ammonium to nitrate by nitrifying bacteria whereas incomplete nitrification was observed in the absence of algae. This result was likely driven by algal support of the commamox bacteria, Nitrospira, which otherwise died off in the anaerobic digestate. We also show here, for the first time, that C. sorokiniana sustained the relative abundance of the phosphate-accumulating bacteria, Candidatus Accumulibacter, whereas this organism declined in relative abundance by 94% when algae were absent (p
Iron and iron-bound phosphate accumulate in surface soils of ice-wedge polygons in arctic tundra

Phosphorus (P) is a limiting or co-limiting nutrient to plants and microorganisms in diverse ecosystems that include the arctic tundra. Certain soil minerals can adsorb or co-precipitate with phosphate, and this mineral-bound P provides a potentially large P reservoir in soils. Iron (Fe) oxyhydroxides have a high capacity to adsorb phosphate; however, the ability of Fe oxyhydroxides to adsorb phosphate and limit P bioavailability in organic tundra soils is not known. Here, we examined the depth distribution of soil Fe and P species in the active layer ( 4× greater than water-soluble Pi. These results demonstrate that Fe-bound Pi is a large and ecologically important reservoir of phosphate. We contend that Fe oxyhydroxides and other minerals may regulate Pi solubility under fluctuating redox conditions in organic surface soils on the arctic tundra.
Poly(norbornene) anion conductive membranes: homopolymer, block copolymer and random copolymer properties and performance

It has previously been shown that phase-separated block copolymers with non-ion conducting (hydrophobic) blocks and ion conducting (hydrophilic) blocks can form efficient ion conducting channels with high ionic mobility and conductivity. Block copolymers can provide a means for phase segregation and ion channel formation while homopolymers and random copolymers have been shown to have lower ion mobility. In this study, the properties of poly(norbornene) based anion exchange membranes (AEMs) comprising homopolymers, block copolymers, and random copolymers with high ion-exchange capacity (IEC) (3.48–4.55 meq. g−1) have been investigated and compared. The polymers were cross-linked with N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyl-1,6-hexanediamine before casting the membranes to avoid excessive water swelling due to high water uptake. It was shown that high ionic conductivity can be achieved in both random copolymers and homopolymers even in the absence of microphase-separated structures. For example, the conductivity of a random copolymer was 194 mS cm−1 at 80 °C, which was comparable to the block copolymer, 201 mS cm−1 at 80 °C. The H2/O2 fuel cell performance of random copolymer composite membranes showed a peak power density of 3.05 W cm−2 and peak current density of 7.85 A cm−2 at 80 °C compared to block copolymer membranes (peak power density of 3.21 W cm−2 and peak current density of 8.27 A cm−2 at 80 °C). It is more critical that high water transport be achieved in AEMs than achieving a phase-segregated morphology. Finally, the homopolymer, block copolymer, and random copolymer membranes showed <1.35% degradation after aging in 1 M NaOH at 80 °C for 1000 h.
The Origins of Mass Incarceration: The Racial Politics of Crime and Punishment in the Post–Civil Rights Era

This article examines the origins of US mass incarceration. Although it is clear that changes in policy and practice are the proximate drivers of the prison boom, researchers continue to explore—an...
An MHV macrodomain mutant predicted to lack ADP-ribose binding activity is severely attenuated, indicating multiple roles for the macrodomain in coronavirus replication

All coronaviruses (CoVs) contain a macrodomain, also termed Mac1, in non-structural protein 3 (nsp3) which binds and hydrolyzes ADP-ribose covalently attached to proteins. Despite several reports demonstrating that Mac1 is a prominent virulence factor, there is still a limited understanding of its cellular roles during infection. Currently, most of the information regarding the role of CoV Mac1 during infection is based on a single point mutant of a highly conserved asparagine-to-alanine mutation, which is known to largely eliminate Mac1 ADP-ribosylhydrolase activity. To determine if Mac1 ADP-ribose binding separately contributes to CoV replication, we compared the replication of a murine hepatitis virus (MHV) Mac1 mutant predicted to dramatically reduce ADP-ribose binding, D1329A, to the previously mentioned asparagine mutant, N1347A. D1329A and N1347A both replicated poorly in bone-marrow derived macrophages (BMDMs), were inhibited by PARP enzymes, and were highly attenuated in vivo . However, D1329A was significantly more attenuated than N1347A in all cell lines tested that were susceptible to MHV infection. In addition, D1329A retained some ability to block IFN-beta transcript accumulation compared to N1347A, indicating that these two mutants impacted distinct Mac1 functions. Mac1 mutants predicted to eliminate both binding and hydrolysis activities were unrecoverable, suggesting that the combined activities of Mac1 may be essential for MHV replication. We conclude that Mac1 has multiple roles in promoting the replication of MHV, and that these results provide further evidence that Mac1 could be a prominent target for anti-CoV therapeutics. IMPORTANCE: In the wake of the COVID-19 epidemic, there has been a surge to better understand how CoVs replicate, and to identify potential therapeutic targets that could mitigate disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 and other prominent CoVs. The highly conserved macrodomain, also termed Mac1, is a small domain within non-structural protein 3. It has received significant attention as a potential drug target as previous studies demonstrated that it is essential for CoV pathogenesis in multiple animal models of infection. However, the various roles and functions of Mac1 during infection remain largely unknown. Here, utilizing recombinant Mac1 mutant viruses, we have determined that different biochemical functions of Mac1 have distinct roles in the replication of MHV, a model CoV. These results indicate that Mac1 is more important for CoV replication than previously appreciated, and could help guide the development of inhibitory compounds that target unique regions of this protein domain.
Association of Type of Antidepressant Initiation with Bleeding Risk in Atrial Fibrillation Patients Taking Oral Anticoagulants.

Inconsistent evidence suggests that use of certain antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), in patients using oral anticoagulants (OACs) might be associated with an elevated risk of bleeding. This study aims to investigate the risk of bleeding associated with initiation of different types of antidepressants among atrial fibrillation (AF) patients on OAC therapy. A total of 30,336 AF patients (mean age 72.2 years; 54% female) on OAC therapy that started antidepressant treatment were identified from the Truven Health Analytics MarketScan Commercial and Medicare Databases for the period 2007–2015. Exposure was defined as filling a prescription for antidepressant, and categorized as SSRI, serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), or other antidepressants. The primary outcome was incident hospitalized bleeding. Associations of antidepressant type with bleeding were assessed calculating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) with adjusted Cox models in pairwise propensity score-matched cohorts. During a mean follow-up of 21 months, we identified 1612 bleeding episodes. In pairwise comparisons, SSRI use was associated with an increased risk of bleeding when compared to most other antidepressants (HR 1.22, 95% CI 0.96–1.54 vs SNRI; HR 1.10, 95% CI 0.90–1.35 vs SRI; HR 1.03, 95% CI 0.82–1.30 vs TCA). SNRI use was associated with the lowest bleeding risk. Results did not differ by OAC type, age, and sex. Among AF patients on OAC initiating antidepressants, risk of bleeding varied across antidepressant type. This information can inform treatment choices among patients receiving OAC.
Can interprofessional case conferences effectively teach interprofessional core competencies? A case study.

Abstract Background The establishment of interprofessional education (IPE) as an effective method for training future health care providers, the subsequent establishment of IPE requirements in accreditation standards, and the challenges to integrating IPE into professional-centric curricula have created an environment that encourages opportunity for innovation and collaboration in curriculum design. Interprofessional education activity Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) Core Competencies were integrated into an Interprofessional Case Conference (ICC) model that included six annual case conferences involving students from eight health professions across multiple campuses. Students worked in groups of eight with no more than two students from each profession per group. Interprofessional teams facilitated live progressive cases consisting of iterative guided student discussion alternating with group problem solving, followed by “talk-show style” reports. A retrospective pre-post study design using the validated IPEC Competency Self-Assessment V3 and Student Perspective of Interprofessional Clinical Education tools assessed student perspectives of the ICC model. The online survey was sent to participants who attended at least one ICC in 2015–2016 and 2016–2017. Discussion Pre-/post-data was available from 94 students. Results revealed modest, but significant, score changes across both instruments, confirming the value of IPE and the ICC training model. Implications The ICC formula allowed flexibility in applying IPE, resolved scheduling and resources challenges, complemented other IPE programming, and assisted in meeting pharmacy accreditation requirements and the diverse IPE needs of health professions education. The model is flexible, inexpensive, and could be readily replicated at other institutions.
Advanced Cardiovascular Imaging in Clinical Heart Failure

Cardiovascular imaging is the cornerstone of the assessment of patients with heart failure. Although noninvasive volumetric estimation of the cardiac function is an essential and indisputably useful clinical tool, cardiac imaging has evolved and matured to offer detailed functional, hemodynamic, and tissue characterization. The adoption of a new framework to diagnose and phenotype heart failure that incorporates comprehensive imaging assessment has been lacking in clinical trials. The present review offers a general overview of available imaging strategies for patients with heart failure.
Long-term Persistence of Genetic Types of Mastitis-causing Staphylococcus aureus on Three Dairy Herds

Staphylococcus aureus remains a significant cause of mastitis in the dairy industry. It has been recommended that control of S. aureus mastitis be focused on the specific genetic types of S. aureus that most commonly cause the mastitis. Genetic types can be defined using molecular techniques, including pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). There have been comparatively few studies looking at within-herd persistence over time of S. aureus genetic types as causes of mastitis. Most have dealt with very few isolates or comparatively short periods of time. The objective of this investigation was to examine PFGE band patterns (EPs) from bovine mastitis-causing S. aureus isolates from three related herds over the course of 15 years to determine if any patterns persisted long-term.
Electrochemical synthesis of decavanadates-containing inorganic complex and inorganic-organic hybrid in aqueous solutions

Abstract Polyoxometalate (POM) can serve as functional inorganic nucleophilic polydentate ligands to incorporate 3dmetal or 4f-metal ions to manufacture novel 3d-metal substituted POM materials or 4f-metal substituted POM materials with potential applications. Two polyoxovanadate-containing compounds with decavanadate anions, Cs4[Cu(OH)(H2O)3]8(H6V6IVV4VO28)(V10VO28) (1) and K2[Cu(H2O)(C6H15NO3)]2(V10O28)∙2H2O (2), have been electrochemically synthesized in aqueous solution. Electrochemical driving force was utilized to perform the crystal growth of the title decavanadate-containing inorganic transition-metal complexes (TMCs) and inorganic–organic hybrid compound. The technique is novel and noteworthy because it allows for the synthesis of complexes based on thermally unstable POM anions that cannot be synthesized by conventional hydrothermal methods while maintaining the plenary POM structure under mild synthetic conditions. Furthermore, the adaption of the technique allows the incorporation of a triethanolamine-copper complex as a second building unit (SBU) for the exploration of inorganic-organic hybrid via electrochemical methods. Interestingly, the title compounds cannot be obtained via conventional evaporation methods either, emphasizing the unique nature of the synthetic method due to electroreduction.
Characterization of Porosity in Ceramic Materials by Small-Angle Scattering: Vycor™ Glass and Silica Aerogel

Porosity is a dominant factor affecting the performance of ceramic materials. Failure of structural ceramics, for example, often results from flaws that originate at voids present in green compacts. Ceramists employ the tools of colloid chemistry to prepare powders that sinter in such a way as to eliminate such troublesome voids.
Three Epigraphic Finds from Tall Jalul, Jordan

The 2009 excavation season at Tall Jalul, Jordan, unearthed three inscribed objects: (1) half of an unusual stamp seal with Hebrew script and part of a scene that may consist of a worshipper in front of a stand, (2) an Ammonite ceramic bulla, and (3) a fragment of an Ammonite ostracon. All three were found in Field D, but not in clear stratigraphic contexts.1 However, palaeographic analysis suggests the rough dating of these inscriptions: seal—eighth-seventh centuries b.c.; bulla and ostracon—seventh-sixth centuries b.c.
Segmenting Reseller Markets

Abstract Resellers, such as retailers and wholesalers, represent an important market for many manufacturers. Yet marketing strategics for many suppliers treat resellers as a homogeneous market whose members exhibit similar buying behavior. Resellers, however, are unique in much the same way as consumers and industrial buyers are unique. Consequently, firms that use resellers to reach the final user should consider a segmentation approach to identifying viable distribution partners. While industrial segmentation models are available and offer useful bases for segmenting industrial markets they are often inadequate when applied to the reseller market. The main reason industrial segmentation models are not applicable to resellers is due to significant differences that exist between the purchasing behavior of industrial buyers and resellers. To address this need the Reseller Network Segmentation model is presented. This multi-level model provides many segmentation bases that consumer products manufacturers co...
Magnetic Resonance and Kinetic Studies Related to the Manganese Activation of the Adenylate Kinase Reaction

Abstract Proton relaxation rate (PRR) studies indicated that there was little direct interaction between manganous ion and adenylate kinase. However, a large enhancement of the PRR of water was observed in the presence of ATP; for the enzyme combined with manganous-ATP complex rather than directly with the metal ion. Thus adenylate kinase is similar to creatine kinase but not to pyruvate kinase, with respect to the formation of the ternary enzyme-metal-substrate complex. The enhancement of the PRR of the ternary complex, MnATP-adenylate kinase, was determined to be 35 at 25 Mc per sec, pH 8.0, and 24°. The dissociation constant of MnATP2- from the ternary complex was determined to be 0.5 x 10-4 m from the PRR data. A combination of PRR measurements and of free manganese determinations by electron paramagnetic resonance was used to determine the dissociation constant for MnATP2- and also for the free nucleotide from the enzyme. Values of 0.9 x 10-4 m and 0.3 x 10-4 m, respectively, were obtained. These agree reasonably with previous results from kinetic and thermodynamic data. The enhancement factors, et, of the PRR of the ternary complexes of adenylate kinase with the manganese complexes of a number of nucleoside triphosphates were determined. The order of et was found to be: MnATP (35) g Mn-2'-dATP (20) g MnGTP (8) g MnITP (5) g MnCTP (4) and MnUTP (4) at 24°. Also, a value of 8 for the ternary complex formed between adenylate kinase, manganous ion, and tripolyphosphate was obtained. A comparative kinetic study was carried out with these compounds with manganous ion as activator. For the purine nucleotides the order of maximum velocities was ATP g 2'-dATP g GTP g ITP. The correlation between et and the maximum velocities could be interpreted in part as indicative of some graded degree of conformational change induced in the protein by these substrates. This correlation could not be extended to the pyrimidine nucleotides, and tripolyphosphate did not give a measurable velocity. A temperature study of the variation of the PRR for the ternary complexes formed with adenylate kinase and MnATP2- and Mn-2'-dATP2- was carried out over the range 2–42°. The PRR increased with increasing temperature for both complexes, which is characteristic of a chemical exchange-dominated process.
Characteristics of Cognitive Engineering: The Next Generation of Instructional Systems.

*An original abbreviated version of this paper titled "Characteristics of instructional design" was presented by the first author at a seminar (May 1986) sponsored by the North Central Region Educational Laboratory (NCREL), and held at Indiana University, Bloomington. Dr. Larry Friedman was coordinator of the seminar. A shorter version entitled "Characteristics of cognitive instructional design: The next generation" was made at the 1988 AECT Convention in New Orleans by both authors.
Recognizing nurse stakeholder dissonance as a critical determinant of patient safety in new healthcare information technologies

Proper identification of all stakeholders and the comprehensive assessment of their evolving and often conflicting Needs, Wants, and Desires (NWDs) is a fundamental principle of human factors science and human-centered systems engineering; it is not yet a consistent element in development and deployment of new health information technologies (HIT). As the single largest group of healthcare professionals, nurses are critical stakeholders for these new technologies. Careful analysis can reveal nurse stakeholder dissonance (NSD) when integrating new technologies into the healthcare environment. Stakeholder dissonance is a term that describes the conflict between the NWDs of different stakeholders which, if left unresolved, can result in dissatisfaction, workarounds, errors, and threats to patient safety. Three case studies drawn from the authors' experience in a variety of acute-care settings where new HITs have been recently deployed are examined to illustrate the concept of NSD. Conflicting NWDs, other stakeholders, and possible root causes of the NSD are analyzed and mapped to threats to patient safety. Lessons learned, practical guidance for anticipating, identifying, and mitigating NSD, future research and implications for HFE and nursing practice are discussed.
Some Problems in the Identification and Estimation of Continuous time Systems from Discrete time Series

Publisher Summary Closed loop systems are frequently modeled in terms of such processes, and it would be of interest to investigate how the cross-spectral method performs when u(t) is of this type and whether it can be easily modified to produce better results in such cases. This chapter reviews and discusses the use of the cross-spectral method in estimating frequency and time domain characteristics of both unparameterized and parameterized systems. The chapter investigates the biases that may occur in the estimates or the identification error when u(t) has spectral mass beyond Nyquist frequency. It suggests modifications that should produce less-biased estimates under such circumstances. There are other circumstances in which the cross-spectral method is invalid or liable to produce poor results and requires further study and modification (what requires?). It briefly describes some problems that are of practical concern.
Power is Everywhere: Social Inequality from Discursive Formations to Patterns of Activation

According to Foucault, discourse is centrally important for the formation and maintenance of power relations and for the construction of identities. That is to say, the language that we use to make sense of the world both reflects the contemporary power relations and affects the kind of selves we become. This element of Foucauldian theory has been generally accepted by contemporary political theorists. However, as Judith Butler notes, Foucault’s own theorizing cannot explain the way in which socially constructed subjectivity functions. As a result, Foucauldian theorizing leaves open the question of the way in which the social construction of the self affects how people perceive and think about the world. In this paper, I offer a theoretical model of the way in which socially constructed subjectivity functions. Drawing upon both Foucauldian theory and research from social cognitive psychology, I present a model of the functioning of subjectivity that illustrates the way in which power relations shape who we are at the most fundamental, cognitive level. I conclude the paper by considering the political implications of the model for social justice activists and theorists concerned with creating more just, equitable, and humane power relations.
Work in progress - An innovative instructional model for improving manufacturing engineering education

This paper reports our ongoing effort in developing a new instructional model to improve cognitive learning and student motivation in undergraduate manufacturing engineering education. In this model, a computer animation and simulation program is incorporated into hands-on real-world experiments. The paper describes the interactive computer program that we have developed for animating and simulating machining processes in an undergraduate machining course that we teach. A representative example of student projects is provided to demonstrate how computer simulation is employed in the new instructional model. Both qualitative and quantitative evaluations are conducted to assess students' attitudes toward our computer program and if and how it helps students understand fundamental machining concepts and theories. The evaluation results show that the developed instructional model has a positive impact on enhancing and increasing students' cognitive learning of machining concepts and theories.
A PILOT STUDY EXAMINING THE VIABILITY OF A PREHOSPITAL ASSESSMENT WITH ULTRASOUND FOR EMERGENCIES (PAUSE) PROTOCOL

Abstract Background Prehospital ultrasound has been shown to aid in the diagnosis of multiple conditions that do not generally change prehospital management. On the other hand, the diagnoses of cardiac tamponade, tension pneumothorax, or cardiac standstill may directly impact patient resuscitation in the field. Study Objective To determine if prehospital care providers can learn to acquire and recognize ultrasound images for several life-threatening conditions using the Prehospital Assessment with UltraSound for Emergencies (PAUSE) protocol. Methods This is a prospective, educational intervention pilot study at an urban fire department with integrated emergency medical services (EMS). We enrolled 20 emergency medical technicians – paramedic with no prior ultrasonography training. Subjects underwent a 2-h training session on basic ultrasonography of the lungs and heart to evaluate for pneumothorax, pericardial effusion, and cardiac activity. Subjects were tested on image interpretation as well as image acquisition skills. Two bedside ultrasound-trained emergency physicians scored images for adequacy. Image interpretation testing was performed using pre-obtained ultrasound clips containing normal and abnormal images. Results All subjects appropriately identified the pleural line, and 19 of 20 paramedics achieved a Cardiac Ultrasound Structural Assessment Scale score of ≥4. For the image interpretation phase, the mean PAUSE protocol video test score was 9.1 out of a possible 10 (95% confidence interval 8.6–9.6). Conclusion Paramedics were able to perform the PAUSE protocol and recognize the presence of pneumothorax, pericardial effusion, and cardiac standstill. The PAUSE protocol may potentially be useful in rapidly detecting specific life-threatening pathology in the prehospital environment, and warrants further study in existing EMS systems.
Computer model of wind, waves, and longshore currents during a coastal storm

A mathematical model has been developed to forecast or hindcast wind, waves, and longshore currents during the passage of a coastal storm. Storm intensity is a function of the barometric pressure gradient which is modeled by rotating an inverted normal curve around the center of an ellipse. The length and orientation of the major and minor axes of the ellipse control the size and shape of the storm. The path of the storm is determined by a sequence of storm positions for the hindcast mode, and by interpolated positions assuming constant speed and direction for the forecast mode. The site location, shoreline orientation, and nearshore bottom slope provide input data for the shore position. The geostrophic wind speed and direction at the shore site are computed from the latitude and barometric pressure gradient. The geostrophic wind is converted into surface wind speed and direction by applying corrections for frictional effects over land and sea. The surface wind speed and direction, effective fetch, and wind duration are used to compute wave period, breaker height, and breaker angle at the shore site. The longshore current velocity is computed as a function of wave period, breaker height and angle, and nearshore slope. The model was tested by comparing observed data for several coastal locations with predicted values for wind speed, wave period and height, and longshore current velocity. Forecasts were made for actual storms and for hypothetical circular and elliptical storms.
The gene as the drug.

Caplen et al. (pages 39–46) demonstrate that it is feasible to use liposomes to transfer a human gene in vivo. Can this vector mimic the ability of viruses to effectively transfer genetic information into target cells?
DISCOSPONDYLITIS IN A CAT

The incidence and causative agents of discospondylitis in cats are unknown. This report describes a cat with radiologic changes consistent with discospondylitis and concurrent urinary tract infection. As in dogs, discospondylitis should be the primary rule out for vertebral end plate lysis in cats.
Indirect near-infrared spectrophotometric determination of silicate by the 2-amino-4-chlorobenzenethiol method.

Abstract An indirect near-infrared spectrophotometric method for the determination of silicate, based on the absorbance of an equivalent amount of molybdenum-2-amino-4-chlorobenzenethiol complex in chloroform solution, has been developed. The green chloroform solution has an absorbance maximum at 715 nm. The development of the spectrophotometric method for the determination of silicate included a study of a buffer system for the purpose of maintaining the pH within a narrow optimum pH range, complex stability, effect of diverse ions, and conformity to Beer's law. The limit of detection is 0.034 μg of silicon per ml of aqueous heteropoly acid solution.
Specialized electron beam nanolithography for EUV and X-ray diffractive optics

Diffraction of electromagnetic radiation remains a viable method for manipulation and focusing of extreme ultraviolet and X-ray wavelengths where the optical properties preclude significant phase shift without attenuation. As the wavelength becomes smaller, the characteristic dimensions needed for effective utilization of diffraction proportionally shrink, placing significant demands on the half-pitch of the diffractive structure. State-of-the-art nanofabrication technology is then required. Additionally, line placement over the entire grating, zone plate lens, or other diffractive element requires an accuracy on the order of a small fraction of a linewidth over the entire structure. This places a heavy burden on the alignment and calibration of the pattern-generating tool. In the case of zone plate lenses, smooth curved geometric elements are required. Specialized techniques for electron beam lithography have been developed to meet these demands, which diverge from the technology used to meet the challenges encountered in mask making and electronic circuit research. The techniques are in four areas: on axis calibration, beam placement, subpixel image processing for overlay, and smooth generation of arc shapes. Using the ensemble of these specialized techniques, high-resolution electron beam lithography nanofabrication has been used to successfully make diffractive structures with linewidths approaching 10 nm and near diffraction limited optical performance.
Ultrasound machine comparison: an evaluation of ergonomic design, data management, ease of use, and image quality.

Background and Objectives: The use of ultrasound technology for vascular access and regional anesthesia is gaining widespread acceptance among anesthesia providers. As a result, many group practices and medical institutions are considering purchasing ultrasound equipment. Currently, comparative information regarding the ergonomic design, physical and adjustable features, data management, ease of use, cost, and image quality of various ultrasound machines is not available. The primary goal of this investigation was to develop an objective process of evaluating ultrasound equipment before purchase. The process of evaluation used in the current investigation may be used when comparing a variety of medical technologies. Methods: A randomized, side-by-side comparative evaluation of 7 different ultrasound machine models was performed. Sixteen resident physicians without prior ultrasound experience (inexperienced providers) completed a formal evaluation of each machine model after performing a standardized machine configuration and performance checklist. Inexperienced providers and 10 faculty members experienced in ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia evaluated the image quality of 2 standardized images acquired from each machine model. Results: Overall, evaluators rated questions on the machine evaluation form as "very good" or "outstanding" 70% or more of the time for all machine models. The largest, most complex ultrasound machine was rated as having the best image quality by both inexperienced and experienced providers. Ultrasound machine models with the simplest ergonomic design and user interface were rated highest by inexperienced study participants. Conclusions: Anesthesia providers considering an ultrasound equipment purchase should objectively evaluate machine models that have features most important to their own clinical practice. Ergonomic design, physical and adjustable features, data management, ease of use, image quality, and cost are important features to consider when evaluating an ultrasound machine.
Scalable lock-free dynamic memory allocation

Dynamic memory allocators (malloc/free) rely on mutual exclusion locks for protecting the consistency of their shared data structures under multithreading. The use of locking has many disadvantages with respect to performance, availability, robustness, and programming flexibility. A lock-free memory allocator guarantees progress regardless of whether some threads are delayed or even killed and regardless of scheduling policies. This paper presents a completely lock-free memory allocator. It uses only widely-available operating system support and hardware atomic instructions. It offers guaranteed availability even under arbitrary thread termination and crash-failure, and it is immune to deadlock regardless of scheduling policies, and hence it can be used even in interrupt handlers and real-time applications without requiring special scheduler support. Also, by leveraging some high-level structures from Hoard, our allocator is highly scalable, limits space blowup to a constant factor, and is capable of avoiding false sharing. In addition, our allocator allows finer concurrency and much lower latency than Hoard. We use PowerPC shared memory multiprocessor systems to compare the performance of our allocator with the default AIX 5.1 libc malloc, and two widely-used multithread allocators, Hoard and Ptmalloc. Our allocator outperforms the other allocators in virtually all cases and often by substantial margins, under various levels of parallelism and allocation patterns. Furthermore, our allocator also offers the lowest contention-free latency among the allocators by significant margins.