cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A happy symmetry: Xunzi's ethical thought

XUNZI (c. 310-219 B.C.), the second great representative of the Confucian tradition, disagreed fundamentally with his eminent predecessor, Mencius (c. 391-308 B.C.), over what is perhaps the central issue in Chinese ethical philosophy: the character of human nature.1 He is notorious among Confucians for arguing against Mencius by maintaining that human nature is essentially bad.2 This particular aspect of his thought has led some scholars (Cua et al.) to compare him with Thomas Hobbes; the comparison is not unwarranted or unhelpful. Both Xunzi and Hobbes believed human nature was essentially bad and that, left unrestrained, it would lead to a life that, in Hobbes' wellturned phrase, is "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish and short." To avoid this sad state, both proposed restraining human nature, but in very different and distinctive ways. Hobbes proposed his social contract and the absolute authority of the monarch; Xunzi offered a set of practices governing religious, social and personal conduct: the traditional "rites" (li) of Confucianism. Xunzi believed we could train ourselves out of the state of nature; Hobbes did not. These dramatically different responses to a similar premise about the character of human nature give us some indication of the profound differences between Xunzi and Hobbes. Another significant difference between the two is well worth noting. Unlike Hobbes, Xunzi recognized that human nature needed to be restrained not only to protect one human being from another but also to protect Nature from being destroyed by unregulated human exploitation.
A diagnostic system for organic brain disorders: Critique and suggestion

Organic brain disorders (OBD) are among the most complex psychiatric diagnostic problems. A critique of the American Psychiatric Association'sDiagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM II) and the proposed DSM III suggests that the diagnostic outline for organic brain disorders contained in these publications (Organic Brain Syndromes in the DSM II; Organic Mental Syndromes in the proposed DSM III) is inadequate to describe the potential range of organic-based behavioral disorders and their possible organic etiologies. A new diagnostic system is proposed, with examples of its use, which should fit in with the DSM II and the proposed DSM III and be flexible enough to overcome the problems of the present diagnostic system.
Comparing In-Keyboard Pointing Devices: Considerations for the Practitioner

Pointing sticks and touchpads are the leading integrated pointing devices for portable computers. Yet research shows that users are frustrated with these devices. With WIMP interface firmly entrenched and mobile computer use drastically rising, attention must be paid to the virtues and limitations of integrated pointing devices. This article offers a mixture of qualitative and quantitative findings that clarify the issues and the design factors that affect performance and satisfaction with integrated pointing devices. Findings indicate that the rate-control pointing stick is a more efficient and preferred pointer to the position-control touchpad device, but that other design factors such as palm rest size, LCD technology differences, and device implementation differences might account for more variance in pointer effectiveness and user satisfaction than the device type itself. Contradictory findings in the recent literature are explained in terms of differences among these other factors. Practitioner guid...
Helicobacter pylori-associated ulcer bleeding: should we test for eradication after treatment?

Summary Background : Eradication of Helicobacter pylori after peptic ulcer haemorrhage reduces the risk of recurrence. Because H. pylori treatment is very effective, it is unclear whether testing to confirm eradication is worthwhile. Aims : To examine whether patients with H. pylori-associated peptic ulcer haemorrhage should be tested for successful eradication after completion of antibiotic therapy. Methods : A Markov cost-effectiveness model was developed to compare testing vs. non-testing of H. pylori eradication in peptic ulcer haemorrhage. Probability estimates and average costs were derived from published information. Results : Testing for H. pylori eradication resulted in a benefit of 0.07 quality-adjusted life-years and cost $836 less than the strategy of not confirming eradication. Testing remained the superior strategy when varying the model regarding age, the initial success of eradication, various test and retreatment strategies, and the rate and costs of recurrent bleeding. Assuming a high eradication rate (95%), the test strategy becomes more expensive only if the cost of H. pylori testing reaches $265; however, even under these conditions it remains cost-effective. Conclusions : Patients with H. pylori-associated peptic ulcer bleeding should be tested to confirm eradiation of H. pylori after completion of antibiotic treatment.
Reliability of a Modified People of Color Racial Identity Attitude Scale and a White Racial Identity Attitude Scale for a Sample of Master's Counseling Students:

The reliabilities of Helms' People of Color Racial Identity Attitude Scale and White Racial Identity Attitude Scale when used with a sample of master's counseling students were explored for modified versions. Reliabilities were assessed using Cronbach alpha as a measure of internal consistency, and temporal stabilities were measured. Results were consistent with previous findings, with coefficients alpha ranging from .67 to .77 for the modified People of Color Racial Identity Attitude Scale, and from .36 to .84 for the modified White Racial Identity Attitude Scale. Analyses also identified items that may suppress internal consistencies in responding by this sample.
What it costs to implement a plan: plan-level and task-level contributions to switch costs.

Four experiments were conducted to identify the costs of implementing a plan in the task span procedure, which requires subjects to retrieve the task to perform on the current target from a list of planned tasks in memory. Experiment 1 compared switch costs in the task span procedure with switch costs in the explicit taskcuing procedure, which presented cues indicating the task to perform on each target. Switch costs were greater in the task span procedure. Experiments 2–4 were designed to identify the sources of this difference. Experiment 2 showed that the requirement of establishing a correspondence between the list of task names and the list of targets contributed to switch costs. Experiment 3 showed that retaining lists of similar task names produced greater switch costs than did retaining lists of dissimilar task names. Experiment 4 showed that memory load had no effect on switch costs. The results are discussed in terms of the interaction between plan-level and task-level processing in the implementation of plans.
Continuity between cytoplasmic endomembranes and outer mitochondrial membranes in fungi.

Several types of intimate association are shown between endoplasmic reticulum or endoplasmic reticulum-like membranes and the outer membranes of mitochondria in fungal hyphae. These include close physical association, contact, thread-like continuity, and direct luminal continuity. Membranes are smooth surfaced in the immediate region of association or continuity, and some have ribosomes at other sites along their surfaces. The continuities represent sites of membrane interaction which may facilitate exchange between adjacent membrane components. Additional continuities are shown between mitochondria and other endomembrane components. Observations are discussed in relation to the body of information linking mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum in a variety of eukaryotic cells.
A soluble oligomer of tau associated with fiber formation analyzed by NMR.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by the intracellular accumulation of the neurofibrillary tangles comprised mainly of the microtubule-associated protein, tau. A critical aspect of understanding tangle formation is to understand the transition of soluble monomeric tau into mature fibrils by characterizing the structure of intermediates along the aggregation pathway. We have carried out multidimensional NMR studies on a C-terminal fragment of human tau (tau187) to gain structural insight into the aggregation process. To specifically monitor intermolecular interaction between tau molecules in solution, we combined 15N- and 14N-labeled tau, the latter of which was modified with a paramagnetic nitroxide spin label (MTSL). Paramagnetic relaxation enhancement (PRE) of 15N-tau by interaction with MTSL-14N-tau allowed identification of low molecular weight oligomers of tau187 that formed in response to heparin-induced aggregation. Two regions, VQIINK280 and VQIVYK311, were exclusively broadened by MTSL lo...
Lateralized Visual-Field Inattention in Schizophrenia

Numerous studies have shown impaired verbal functioning in schizophrenic patients as compared with normals. The verbal deficits are generally attributed to damage of the left cerebral hemisphere. This attribution is based on literature which suggests that verbal processing is primarily mediated by the left hemisphere in right-handed humans. This study explored left-hemispheric integrity directly by assessing sustained attention in both the left and right hemispheres of 40 schizophrenic patients with the Weintraub Cancellation Tasks. Patients made significantly more errors of omission on the right visual field than on the left. These results are consistent with cognitive research in schizophrenia by demonstrating selective left-hemispheric impairment relative to right-hemispheric functioning.
Role of mechanical stapling devices in thoracoscopic pulmonary resection

For its first 80 years, thoracoscopy was primarily reserved for the evaluation and treatment of pleural disease. Extension of thoracoscopic techniques to management of parenchymal lung disease remained limited until the availability of endostaplers and adaption of video-assisted techniques through minimal access incisions. The widespread acceptance of mechanical staplers in open lung resections during the previous two decades has facilitated conversion to closed methods in the past 2 years. A variety of techniques for mechanical stapling in thoracoscopy are discussed. The impact of mechanical stapling in 300 consecutive thoracoscopic pulmonary resections is presented.
Intraguild predation of Neoseiulus cucumeris by Stratiolaelaps miles and Atheta coriaria in greenhouse open rearing systems

Abstract We examined intraguild predation of Neoseiulus cucumeris Oudemans (Phytoseiidae) in breeder piles by the soil-dwelling predators, Stratiolaelaps miles (Berlese) (Laelapidae) and Atheta coriaria (Kraatz) (Staphylinidae) in a greenhouse microcosm study. Each microcosm contained a soybean plant ( Glycine max (L.) Merrill) and a N. cucumeris breeder pile alone, a N. cucumeris breeder pile with either S. miles mites or A. coriaria , or a N. cucumeris breeder pile with both S. miles and A. coriaria . We measured numbers of N. cucumeris , S. miles , A. coriaria , and their shared prey: Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Shrank) (Acaridae) mold mites and incident thrips (Thripidae: Frankliniella occidentalis and Thrips sp.). Peak populations of N. cucumeris in breeder piles and soybean canopies lacking S. miles and/or A. coriaria predators were fourfold greater than when other predators were present. We observed more N. cucumeris mites in plant canopies in microcosms where other predators were absent. S. miles had a significant negative impact on A. coriaria and A. coriaria had numerical negative impacts on S. miles . There were fewer T. putrescentiae mold mites in microcosms containing A. coriaria (⩽1049.28 ± 301.72) compared with other treatments (⩾2428.16 ± 452.24) overall. We observed fivefold more incident thrips in microcosms containing all three predators compared with N. cucumeris breeder pile alone and N. cucumeris breeder pile with either of the other predators. Our results demonstrate that greenhouses seeking to biologically manage thrips should either utilize N. cucumeris alone or utilize alternative N. cucumeris release strategies – i.e. hanging sachets or repeated foliar applications.
Evaluation of three bait materials and their food transfer efficiency in Formosan subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae).

ABSTRACT The consumption and food transfer efficiency of two commercially used termite bait materials, southern yellow pine wood and cardboard, and one potential bait material, maize (Zeamays L.) cob, were evaluated for use against the Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae), in the laboratory. In the no-choice test, the consumption of wood and cob was similar and significantly more than cardboard. Tunneling under the food sources was similar. In the two-choice test, the consumption was cob > wood, wood > cardboard, cob = cardboard, and tunneling under these choices was cob = wood, wood = cardboard, cob > cardboard. In the three-choice test, no significant difference was detected in consumption, but tunnels made under the cob were significantly more than wood and cardboard. Nile blue A was used to study food transfer of bait material among termite cohorts. Dyed cardboard, cob, or wood (0.1% Nile blue A) was provided to termites as food. Termites feeding on...
Angiosarcoma of the breast two case reports and a review of the literature

Two cases of angiosarcoma of the breast are presented. They are of particular interest in that one patient is a long-term survivor, the 19th reported to date, and the other presented with contralateral breast involvement without evidence of disseminated disease. The world literature is reviewed and a discussion is presented of the clinical features, treatment, histopathologic features, and prognosis of this rare breast neoplasm. Tumor size and degree of tumor differentiation are the most important prognostic indicators, and in general a simple mastectomy is the treatment of choice. The value of adjuvant irradiation and chemotherapy is uncertain.
CO-free fuel processing for fuel cell applications

In view of the stringent CO intolerance of the state-of-the-art proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, it is desirable to explore CO-free fuel processing alternatives. In recent years, step-wise reforming of hydrocarbons has been proposed for production of CO-free hydrogen for fuel cell applications. The decomposition of hydrocarbons (first step of the step-wise reforming process) has been extensively investigated. Both steam and air have been employed for catalyst regeneration in the second step of the process. Since, PEM is poisoned by very low (ppm) levels of CO, it is essential to eliminate even trace amounts of CO from the reformate stream. Preferential oxidation of CO (PROX) is considered to be a promising method for trace CO clean up. Related studies along with a discussion of catalytic ammonia decomposition (for applications in alkaline fuel cells) will be included in this review.
Upper atmospheric thermal structure of Jupiter with convective heat transfer.

Abstract When radiative transfer is the dominant mechanism cooling the lower thermosphere of Jupiter, CH4, (7.7μ) is probably the dominant cooling agent; however, its low turbopause mixing ratio (10−4, as compared to 10−3 in the lower atmosphere) contributes to a cooling rate small (≲10−4) compared to CO2 on Mars. This results in a Javian mesopause density ∼10 times the Martian density or ∼1014 cm−3, if radiative cooling is the primary heat transfer mechanism in the lower thermosphere. An alternate method for transporting heat is convection (forced or free), which apparently emerges as the dominant transport mechanism as the effective eddy diffusion coefficient (Kv) approaches values similar to those anticipated in the earth's lower thermosphere (106 cm see−1). Over the solar cycle, with a high heating efficiency (0.86), the temperature rise above the turbopause ranges between 19 and 53K for weak convective activity (Kv=105 cm see−1) and 7–19K for strong activity (107 cm see−1), suggesting that satellite ...
Critical Re-Evaluation Of the Photoemission Rate Law at the P-GaAs/Aqueous Electrolyte Interface

Abstract Threshold photoemission currents at 365 nm from etched single crystal p-GaAs to O.lM KC1 electrolytes follow a 3/2 rate law in the presence of N2O scavenger. Surface film formation decreases efficiencies with time and together with adsorbates, may cause scattering of electrons produced by direct bulk excitation. Theoretical models are discussed and compared to known photoemission behavior at semiconductor/vacuum interfaces.
Eye color and feeding behavior of animals.

A theory is presented of a systematic relationship between iris pigmentation and feeding behavior of land vertebrates.
Rates of Consumption of Juvenile Salmonids and Alternative Prey Fish by Northern Squawfish, Walleyes, Smallmouth Bass, and Channel Catfish in John Day Reservoir, Columbia River

Abstract Adult northern squawfish Ptychocheilus oregonensis, walleyes Stizostedion vitreum, smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu, and channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus were sampled from four regions of John Day Reservoir from April to August 1983–1986 to quantify their consumption of 13 species of prey fish, particularly seaward-migrating juvenile Pacific salmon and steelhead (Oncorhynchus spp.). Consumption rates were estimated from field data on stomach contents and digestion rate relations determined in previous investigations. For each predator, consumption rates varied by reservoir area, month, time of day, and predator size or age. The greatest daily consumption of salmonids by northern squawfish and channel catfish (0.7 and 0.5 prey/predator) occurred in the upper end of the reservoir below McNary Dam. Greatest daily predation by walleyes (0.2 prey/predator) and smallmouth bass (0.04) occurred in the middle and lower reservoir. Consumption rates of all predators were highest in July, concurrent w...
Mediating at the Student–Wikipedia Intersection

ABSTRACT Wikipedia is a free online encyclopedia. The encyclopedia is openly edited by registered users. Wikipedia editors can edit their own and others' entries, and some abuse of this editorial power has been unveiled. Content authors have also been criticized for publishing less than accurate content. Educators and students acknowledge casual use of Wikipedia in spite of its perceived inaccuracies. Use of the online encyclopedia as a reference resource in scholarly papers is still debated. The increasing popularity of Wikipedia has led to an influx of research articles analyzing the validity and content of the encyclopedia. This study provides an analysis of relevant articles on academic use of Wikipedia. This analysis attempts to summarize the status of Wikipedia in relation to the scope (breadth) and depth of its contents and looks at content validity issues that are of concern to the use of Wikipedia for higher education. The study seeks to establish a reference point from which educators can make i...
Magnetic susceptibilities of the heavier rare earth sodium molybdates

Abstract Magnetic susceptibilities are reported for single crystals of the scheelites R 1 2 Na 1 2 MoO 4 , with R = Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, and Yb, between 2 and 300°K. The compounds are paramagnetic and show large axial magnetic anisotropy. The data are interpreted with an approximation to the crystal potential of the form V e = α j V 0 2 O 0 2 +β j V 0 4 O 0 4 +γ j V 0 6 O 0 6 + β j V 4 4 O 4 4 +γ 4 6 O 4 6 . The energy levels and crystal-field parameters are deduced for the Yb compound. The magnetic properties of the other compounds are discussed in light of the crystal field determined for Yb.
Tamoxifen, raloxifene and tibolone decrease risk of invasive breast cancer in healthy women but increase risk of thromboembolism (tamoxifen, raloxifene), endometrial cancer (tamoxifen) or stroke (tibolone)

Commentary on: HD Nelson, R Fu, JC Griffin, et al.. Systematic review: comparative effectiveness of medications to reduce risk for primary breast cancer. Ann Intern Med2009;151:703–15, W–226–35.
Characteristics of Primary Care Providers Adopting Recent Changes in the Polio Immunization Schedule † 628

Characteristics of Primary Care Providers Adopting Recent Changes in the Polio Immunization Schedule † 628
Simulation of Anthrax Spore Transport and Inactivation in a Room: Scaling Analysis

Decontamination of large indoor spaces and buildings following release of biological agents is challenging, as the response to the fall 2001 anthrax-release events indicate. The ability to efficiently and rapidly decontaminate rooms/buildings is limited by the lack of quantitative understanding of the behavior of agent transport, and decontaminants. In response to any new releases it would be necessary to rapidly determine the optimal way to decontaminate the enclosed spaces. In the present study, we numerically simulate a biological agent (anthrax spores) transport and its inactivation by a decontaminant (chlorine dioxide). Such simulations can help us in deciding on decontamination strategies and also in better designs of the buildings and the associated air circulation system to minimize the risks in case of potential agent release. Furthermore, the study also determines the impact of scaling on predicted behavior of the agent distribution and disinfection process. From numerical simulations, a relationship for the inactivation time is obtained as a function of room geometry, ventilation rate, initial number of anthrax spore release, disinfectant injection rate and reaction kinetics. Such a relationship would help in determining decontamination strategies and in optimization of the decontamination processes.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Political economy, labor migration, and the AIDS epidemic in rural Malawi

This study examines how livelihood struggles push rural Malawians into AIDS-risky sexual behavior. The study involved in-depth interviews of 59 household guardians, four key informant group discussions, and after work observations and interviews of 19 people working, traveling, or running businesses. Findings reveal that circular migration has become a livelihood practice for adults aged 20-49 in rural Malawi through which they contract AIDS. This migration springs from the fragile political economy brought about by development strategies that did not build up and deploy human capital in rural communities. Doing so would advance local economic enterprise that would reduce prime age adults' involvement in circular migration and improve their opportunities for self-determination thus increasing the adoption of AIDS prevention interventions in rural Malawi. The abstinence, being faithful, and condom use (ABC) interventions in controlling AIDS need to be complemented by developing human capital and using it to unlock the economic growth and problem-solving potential in rural communities.
Ethical Challenges in Rheumatology: A Survey of the American College of Rheumatology Membership

Objective Despite the frequency of ethical issues arising in patient care, ethical discourse in the rheumatology literature is negligible. To better understand the scope of ethical problems occurring in our specialty, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Committee on Ethics and Conflict of Interest surveyed ACR members. Specific objectives of the survey were 1) to learn the perceived frequency of ethical issues in rheumatology, 2) to identify activities that pose ethical problems in rheumatologic practice, 3) to determine the extent of education on, and self-perceived knowledge about, ethics among ACR members, and 4) to determine member interest in, and suggest content for, future ACR-sponsored educational activities related to bioethics. Methods The survey included 12 non–open-ended questions addressing 5 core areas: 1) ethical dilemmas in daily practice, 2) ethical concerns in basic and clinical research, 3) influence of industry, 4) ethics of regulatory policies, potential conflicts, and disclosure, and 5) personal education on and interest in ethics. Two open-ended questions were also included, asking respondents to list the ethical issues most relevant to rheumatology and to provide any comments. Data analysis was descriptive. Results Seven hundred seventy-one responses were received. Respondents believed that ethical issues arise most frequently in practice and in clinical research. The most common ethical issues cited were the high cost of treatment for patients (51% of respondents) and for society (48%), and the practice of defensive medicine (45%). Conclusion The survey results suggest that ethical problems in rheumatology are of concern to the ACR membership. Further, there is a perceived need for educational programs targeted at helping members address such professional challenges.
Persistent but modifiable retrograde amnesia produced by hypothermia

Abstract Rats receiving deep body cooling immediately after passive avoidance training showed retrograde amnesia when tested 1, 5, or 10 days later. Memory loss was substantial but not complete. In Experiment 2 hypothermia treatment 24 hr before training did not interfere with acquisition of the passive avoidance response. These data suggest that the amnesia is based upon disruption of memory traces. Evidence that retrograde amnesia effects can be attenuated by residual memory was indicated by the finding that amnesic animals cooled again after a second training trial showed complete retention at subsequent testing.
Atomic mobilities and vacancy wind effects for diffusion in ternary Silver-zinc-cadmium solid solutions

Diffusion in the silver-zinc-cadmium system was investigated at 600°C with semiinfinite, vapor-solid couples in order to determine the atomic mobilities and contribution of the vacancy wind effect to the intrinsic diffusion fluxes of silver, zinc and cadmium in the alpha phase region. Atomic mobilities and vacancy wind parameters were computed at selected compositions in the alpha phase along isoconcentration lines of 11 at. pct Zn, 18 at. pct Zn, 5 at. pct Cd and 9 at. pct Cd. The existence of significant interactions between the diffusing species was indicated by the results of an earlier investigation; consequently, the vacancy wind effect was taken into consideration in the calculation of the mobilities. The mobilities of zinc and cadmium, determined by the method of Dayananda, were found to increase with increasing zinc and cadmium concentrations with the mobility of zinc being greater than that of cadmium. The results of the investigation show that the vacancy wind effect significantly affects the total intrinsic flux of each of the three species for diffusion in ternary silver-zinc-cadmium alloys. This investigation reports the experimental observation of the vacancy wind effect in a ternary system.
Effects on solid basicity for sodium metal and metal oxide occluded NaX zeolites

Abstract Zeolite NaX, containing occluded sodium metal and oxide clusters at loadings of 0.25, 1, and 3 sodium species per supercage, were prepared via controlled thermal decomposition of impregnated sodium azide and sodium acetate salts, respectively. In addition, occluded sodium oxide clusters were prepared by oxidation of the supported sodium metal clusters in air at 513 K. Adsorption microcalorimetry of carbon dioxide was used to indicate the strength and number of surface base sites created by incorporation of these sodium species into the NaX supercages. For similar loadings of sodium species, the strength of the CO 2 adsorption sites for zeolites that contained occluded sodium metal clusters was greater than for the zeolites containing occluded sodium oxide clusters prepared by both methods. While the number of CO 2 adsorption sites for both supported sodium oxide catalysts were similar at identical sodium loadings, the heats of adsorption for sites created via the oxidation of supported sodium metal clusters were higher than those prepared via the decomposition of sodium acetate. The decomposition of 2-propanol, used as a probe of the acido-basic character of the surface, indicated that loadings of sodium species of one or greater per supercage produced catalysts with greater than 90% selectivity to the base catalyzed product acetone, compared to 24% selectivity over the unmodified NaX zeolite. At near steady-state conditions for the range of loadings investigated, the rate of acetone production increased linearly with increasing occluded sodium content for all catalysts investigated. A linear relationship between the rate of acetone formation and the total uptake of carbon dioxide was also found. The rate of acid catalyzed propene production reached a minimum for catalysts with loadings near two sodium species per supercage. Higher loadings resulted in an increase in the acid catalyzed propene production, presumably due to the incorporation of acid–base pairs that result from incomplete decomposition of the supported azide.
Characterization of microsatellite markers for the mangrove tree Avicennia germinans L. (Avicenniaceae)

We describe 10 primers for amplification of microsatellite loci for the mangrove, Avicennia germinans. Eight loci were isolated from a DNA sample from the Pacific coast of Baja California, Mexico and two loci were isolated from a DNA sample from the Atlantic coast of Bermuda. Polymorphism was investigated in a population from the Mexican Pacific coast (n = 15) and in four samples scattered throughout the range of the species. Total number of alleles for the species ranged from two to 10. Observed heterozygosity in the Mexican Pacific coast population ranged from 0.27 to 0.60, with two loci having fixed alleles.
Bond Graphs and Lagrange Equations as Aids in Analytical Studies of Electro-Mechanical Systems

Abstract A well-known advantage of bond graph models of electro-mechanical systems is that they can be manipulated manually or with the aid of computer programs to yield first order state equations useful for numerical studies. A causal analysis can show in advance whether derivative causality will cause practical difficulties in the equation formulation which might be best circumvented by modification of the model. Numerical studies are sometimes of limited use in preliminary investigation of the feasibility of a design because the large number of parameters involved precludes a general understanding of the limits of the concept being studied. Analytical studies of simplified models may find the existence of parameter combinations which are crucial to the successful operation of the system or fundamental limitations to performance not obvious in purely numerical studies. Although the first order nature of the normal bond graph state equations are advantageous for numerical simulation, they are not necessarily the most convenient form for analytic studies using pencil and paper. In many cases, the use of Lagrange equations, based on energy state functions and degrees-of-freedom rather than state variables are advantageous for analytic work. Bond graph models and a special form of causality can be used to advantage, particularly when derivative causality is present, to yield sets of second order dynamic equations based on Lagrange equations, which are often easier to work with than their first order equivalents. This will be illustrated by an example by the analysis of the use of a rotary electric motor as an actuator in semi-active or active suspension element in a vehicle suspension.
Magnitude of IFN-γ production in HIV-1-infected children is associated with virus suppression

Abstract Background: Little is known about the cytokine production by peripheral blood cells of pediatric patients who have suppressed HIV-1 replication after highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Objective: We sought to determine the effect of HAART on the production of T H 1 and T H 2 cytokines by HIV-infected children who have suppressed HIV replication. Methods: At 3- to 6-month intervals over a 5-year period, CD4 + T cells were enumerated, plasma HIV-1 RNA was measured, and levels of cytokine production by whole blood cultures were determined in 21 HIV-1-infected children. Results: Ten patients achieved an HIV-1 RNA level of less than 3000 copies/mL of plasma and maintained that level for at least 15 months (virus-suppressed [VS] group). Eleven patients had a mean HIV-1 RNA level of greater than 10 4 copies/mL of plasma and a mean CD4 + T-cell count of less than 500/μL of blood (active infection group). The median levels of anti-CD3-induced IL-2, IFN-γ, and IL-10 in the active infection group were significantly lower than those in the VS group after suppression of the virus. The median slope of IFN-γ production by means of PHA-stimulated culture after achieving VS status (4.04) was significantly higher than the level before VS status (−1.31, P = .004). The difference in the median slopes for IL-10 production by anti-CD3-stimulated cultures before (0.21) and after (−0.16) achieving VS status was statistically different ( P = .027). Conclusion: The immune restoration of HIV-1-infected children receiving HAART might be related to an increase in IFN-γ production and a decrease in the rate of IL-10 production after virus suppression. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2002;110:255-61.)
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community differs between a coexisting native shrub and introduced annual grass.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been implicated in non-native plant invasion success and persistence. However, few studies have identified the AMF species associating directly with plant invaders, or how these associations differ from those of native plant species. Identifying changes to the AMF community due to plant invasion could yield key plant–AMF interactions necessary for the restoration of native plant communities. This research compared AMF associating with coexisting Bromus tectorum, an invasive annual grass, and Artemisia tridentata, the dominant native shrub in western North America. At three sites, soil and root samples from Bromus and Artemisia were collected. Sporulation was induced using trap cultures, and spores were identified using morphological characteristics. DNA was extracted from root and soil subsamples and amplified. Sequences obtained were aligned and analyzed to compare diversity, composition, and phylogenetic distance between hosts and sites. Richness of AMF species associated with Artemisia in cultures was higher than AMF species associated with Bromus. Gamma diversity was similar and beta diversity was higher in AMF associated with Bromus compared to Artemisia. AMF community composition differed between hosts in both cultures and roots. Two AMF species (Archaeospora trappei and Viscospora viscosum) associated more frequently with Artemisia than Bromus across multiple sites. AMF communities in Bromus roots were more phylogenetically dispersed than in Artemisia roots, indicating a greater competition for resources within the invasive grass. Bromus associated with an AMF community that differed from Artemisia in a number of ways, and these changes could restrict native plant establishment.
Regulation of c‐fos is affected by electromagnetic fields

The goal of the present study was to determine if regulatory regions of the c-fos gene were responsive to electromagnetic field exposure. The research design used transfected cells to increase the sensitivity of assays designed to identify changes following exposure. HeLa cells were transiently transfected with plasmids containing upstream regulating regions of c-fos up to -700 base pairs, coupled with the prokaryotic reporter gene CAT. Cells were exposed to an environmentally relevant EMF of 60 Hz at 60 mGrms. CAT expression above control levels in transfected cells (region +42 to -700 bp) was observed following 5 min exposure to the electromagnetic field, with a peak at 20 min. The expression was at basal levels following 40 min exposure. Deletion analysis of upstream DNA narrowed the responsive region to 138 base pairs from -363 to -225, which contains the SRE/AP-1 sites.
Rotationally resolved electronic spectroscopy of some divinylbenzenes in the gas phase. Platt’s rule revisited

Abstract Platt’s rule, as interpreted by Heilbronner and Murrell, states that “if a (an aromatic) molecule has a twofold symmetry axis passing through an atom, then (electronic) transitions to a states are polarized parallel to that axis, and transitions to b states at right angles to this”. We have observed and assigned the fully resolved electronic spectra of three divinylbenzenes, and used this rule to assign the character of their lowest excited electronic states in cases where the molecule has an in-plane C2 axis.
BioGlue and Dermabond save time, leak less, and are not mechanically inferior to two-layer and modified one-layer vasovasostomy

Objective To compare operative time, patency, and integrity of glue-assisted versus suture-only vasovasostomies. Design A Medline search revealed no vasovasostomy studies testing tissue adhesives other than fibrin. We compare glue-reinforced to suture-only vasovasostomies. Setting An academic medical center. Patient(s) None. Intervention(s) Using bull vas deferens, we performed: [1] two-layer anastomoses, [2] modified one-layer anatomoses, and [3] Bioglue, Dermabond, or CoSeal-reinforced anastomoses supported by three transmural sutures. Main Outcome Measure(s) Operative times were recorded, patency verified, and microscopic dissection performed to rule out luminal glue intravasation. Destructive mechanical testing was then completed with statistical comparison of load to failure, displacement to failure, and linear stiffness. Result(s) Operative time was greatest for two-layer anastomoses and significantly reduced for all three glue-reinforced three-suture anastomoses. All techniques were patent and free of glue intravasation. BioGlue and Dermabond demonstrated greater integrity than all other techniques. Mechanically, BioGlue and Dermabond were superior to both the unreinforced three stitch and CoSeal groups and were capable of resisting higher loads before failure. Conclusion(s) Glue-reinforced anastomoses are significantly less time consuming than traditional techniques. BioGlue and Dermabond have greater mechanical integrity and may be superior to both CoSeal and the sutured techniques.
What's So Special about Human Tool Use?

Evidence suggests homologies in parietofrontal circuits involved in object prehension among humans and monkeys. Likewise, tool use is known to induce functional reorganization of their visuotactile limb representations. Yet, humans are the only species for whom tool use is a defining and universal characteristic. Why? Comparative studies of chimpanzee tool use indicate that critical differences are likely to be found in mechanisms involved in causal reasoning rather than those implementing sensorimotor transformations. Available evidence implicates higher-level perceptual areas in these processes.
Optical Kerr switch using elliptical-core two-mode fiber.

A new optical–optical switching technique is proposed and demonstrated with a probe–pump scheme, utilizing nonlinear differential phase shift between two spatial modes in a highly elliptical-core fiber. The probe beam is switched from one intensity-lobe position of the fiber output radiation pattern to the other in a 33-m-long fiber at a pump power of 1.6 W.
Methylchloroform: Global distribution, seasonal cycles, and anthropogenic chlorine

It is evident that the global concentrations of methylchloroform (CH3CCl3) are increasing although at much lower rates than in the past. The ratio of concentrations in the two hemispheres has varied and is now declining, which reflects the constancy of the industrial emissions over the past 5 years. Observations show that the mid-latitude concentrations in both hemispheres are slightly lower during the summer than at other times, probably reflecting the greater removal of CH3CCl3 by OH radicals during summer. Calculations show that the lifetime of CH3CCl3 is about 6 (±1.5) years, which is considerably shorter than many previous estimates. It implies that there are probably 8 × 105 molecules of OH/cm3 of air, although this estimate may be uncertain by ±75%. The shorter lifetime is partly due to a revision of the estimated absolute concentration of CH3CCl3 in the atmosphere, which was found to be about 20% less than estimated previously. The relatively short lifetime suggests that in the future CH3CCl3 will contribute <15% of the anthropogenic chlorine in the troposphere, which is an approximate measure of its relative contribution to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer.
Escaping reuterswärd's shadow

The small arms agenda remains almost exclusively reactive, responding mostly to the needs of the states that finance small arms diplomacy and fieldwork. NGOs and research institutes, tied to government priorities, have been unable to develop an independent voice. Activists have sought influence over small arms politics instead by broadening their agenda to include related social pathologies. This strategy, pragmatic in the short term, threatens the integrity and durability of small arms activism in the long run. It has allowed small arms activism to prosper without articulating the kind of goals necessary to sustain it. Instead of clear goals, the field has been guided largely by images, including art, represented in this essay by Carl Fredrik Reutersward's Non-Violence. To assure its health and influence, small arms activism, research and policy requires greater control over its agenda. Instead of relying on aesthetic inspiration and the tendency to broaden its agenda, the field requires deeper engagemen...
Does Prior Abdominal Surgery Influence Outcomes or Complications of Robotic-assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy?

Objectives To determine whether robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP) in patients with prior abdominal surgery is associated with increased operating times, positive surgical margins, or complications. Methods An institutional review board–approved retrospective review of a prospective, prostatectomy database was performed. Patients undergoing surgery between January 1, 2004, and February 29, 2008 were included. Transition from open retropubic prostatectomy to RALP took place through 2004, at which point all surgical candidates were offered RALP, regardless of prior surgical history. Learning curves from all surgeons were included. Patients with prior abdominal surgery were compared with those patients without prior surgery with respect to total operating time, robotic-assist time, surgical margin positivity, and rate of complications. Results A total of 1083 patients underwent RALP between January 1, 2004, and February 29, 2008, at our institution; of these, 839 had sufficient data available for analysis. In all, 251 (29.9%) patients had prior abdominal surgery, whereas 588 (70.1%) had no prior abdominal surgery. Total operating times were 209 and 204 minutes ( P = .20), robotic console times were 165 and 163 minutes ( P = .59), and surgical margin positivity was 21.1% and 27.2% ( P = .08) for patients with and without prior abdominal surgery, respectively. The incidence of complications was 14.3% and 17.3% for patients with and without prior abdominal surgery ( P = .33). Conclusions Prior abdominal surgery was not associated with a statistically significant increase in overall operating time, robotic assist time, margin positivity, or incidence of complications in patients undergoing RALP. Robotic prostatectomy can be safely and satisfactorily performed in patients who have had a wide variety of prior abdominal surgery types.
An estimate of the long-term non-dipole field from marine magnetic anomalies

Application of the skewness method to 14 marine magnetic anomaly profiles across the Galapagos ridge provides a precise estimate of the equatorial contribution of the long-term non-dipole field. The average inclination anomaly (observed remanent inclination minus dipole inclination) so determined from the central anomaly over the Galapagos ridge is −3.3° ± 0.9°. This result agrees closely with estimates of the non-dipole field contribution at equatorial latitudes as predicted from prior paleomagnetic studies.
Pretransplant mechanical ventilation does not impair lung transplant outcome in patients with cystic fibrosis

Ventilatory failure necessitating invasive mechanical ventilation(MV) has been considered a relative contraindication to lung transplantation(LT). We have performed bilateral lung transplant (BLT) on 8 patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) at our center who were maintained on MV for a mean of 62 20(range 3 to 153) days prior to BLT. We compared outcomes to 24 recipients with CF not on MV at the time of transplant who also received BLT. Although time to extubation post-BLT was significantly prolonged(11 vs. 4 days) for the pre-transplant MV group, days to hosptial discharge, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1 percent predicted) at 1 year post-transplant and post-transplant survival as determined via the Kaplan-Meier method were not statistically different between the two groups. Our data suggest that patients with CF who progress to respiratory failure requiring MV prior to LT have outcomes which are similar to those not requiring invasive ventilatory assistance prior to LT. We conclude that pre-transplant endotracheal intubation and MV should not be considered a contraindication to BLT for patients with CF.
Identifying early buyers from purchase data

Market research has shown that consumers exhibit a variety of different purchasing behaviors; specifically, some tend to purchase products earlier than other consumers. Identifying such early buyers can help personalize marketing strategies, potentially improving their effectiveness. In this paper, we present a non-parametric approach to the problem of identifying early buyers from purchase data. Our formulation takes as inputs the detailed purchase information of each consumer, with which we construct a weighted directed graph whose nodes correspond to consumers and whose edges correspond to purchases consumers have in common; the edge weights indicate how frequently consumers purchase products earlier than other consumers.Identifying early buyers corresponds to the problem of finding a subset of nodes in the graph with maximum difference between the weights of the outgoing and incoming edges. This problem is a variation of the maximum cut problem in a directed graph. We provide an approximation algorithm based on semidefinite programming (SDP) relaxations pioneered by Goemans and Williamson, and analyze its performance. We apply the algorithm to real purchase data from Amazon.com, providing new insights into consumer behaviors.
Stability, infrared spectrum and magnetic properties of FeBO3

Abstract The stability of the compound FeBO3 with the calcite structure and Fe3BO6 with norbergite structure has been determined. Magnetic measurements on polycrystalline FeBO3 revealed the compound to be a weak ferromagnet with a high anisotropy field below 115°C. Infrared spectra were used to determine characteristic absorption bands of the independent (BO3) and (BO4) groups.
Technical Adequacy of the Disruptive Behavior Rating Scale-2nd Edition--Self-Report.

This study provides preliminary analysis of the Disruptive Behavior Rating Scale-2nd Edition–Self-Report, which was designed to screen individuals aged 10 years and older for anxiety and behavior symptoms. Score reliability and internal and external facets of validity were good for a screening-level test.