cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Twenty-four-hour heart preservation using continuous cold perfusion and copper (II) complexes.

Background.During long-termin vitroheart preservation and subsequent reperfusion, irreversible tissue damage occurs in part due to reactive oxygen species. Therefore, inhibition of generation of oxygen-derived free radicals and the related oxidative damage of ischemic tissue may be useful in maintaining heart function after long-term preservation. Complexes of Cu(II) may cause disproportionation of superoxide and thus may function as an inhibitor of the effects of oxygen-derived free radicals. Methods.In this study, 24-h preservation of isolated rat hearts was performed. Using the Langendorff technique, hearts were perfused for 24 h with a hypothermic, moderately hyperkalemic (15 mM KCl) solution containing various metabolic and membrane-stabilizing additives at constant low pressure. In addition, the potential benefit of the addition of two Cu(II) compounds (Cu(II) Cl2and Cu(II)2Asp4) to the perfusion solution was examined. Results.The Cu(II)Cl2-treated hearts were significantly better preserved than control hearts after 24 h of preservation with regard to recovery of systolic pressure, coronary flow, max+dP/dt, and max−dP/dt.Lipid peroxidation as estimated by myocardial malonaldehyde (bothP< 0.001) and myocardial creatine kinase release (bothP< 0.05 vs control) were significantly reduced in the Cu(II)Cl2and Cu(II)2Asp4groups. Overall, Cu(II)Cl2best preserved the heart after 24 h of cold preservation with respect to indices of functional recovery, whereas Cu(II)2Asp4did not significantly improve functional recovery compared to control. Conclusion.Low-pressure, cold perfusion with an enhanced solution is a potential method to preserve donor hearts in preparation for transplantation. The beneficial effect of Cu(II)Cl2was attributed to (i) SOD activity of the Cu2+species and/or (ii) termination of chain carriers in the lipid peroxidations by aqueous Cu2+and Cu+species. The negation of some of the positive effects of Cu2+species by the introduction of acetylsalicylate was tentaively assigned to potentiation of the Ca2+modality for reperfusion injury.
Creative problem solving combining man and machine: Problem solving in the computer age must make use of the unique abilities of humans and machines

What kinds of tools for human imaginative thinking are most suitable for the era of computers? How can we prepare to be more creative and productive in professional work, and in dealing with personal, everyday-life situations? How can we creatively anticipate and act on change?
Aromatic Side Chain-Functionalized Long Chain Acid Salts: Structural Factors Influencing Their Lyotropic Liquid-Crystalline Behavior†

The structural factors influencing the self-assembly of aromatic side chain functionalized long chain acid salts into lyotropic liquid crystal (LLC) phases were examined. Two sets of amphiphiles we...
Growth of human acoustic neuromas, neurofibromas and schwannomas in the subrenal capsule and sciatic nerve of the nude mouse.

To develop a reproducible in vivo model for the growth of human acoustic neuromas and neurofibromas, we implanted tumor specimens (6 acoustic neuromas; 4 neurofibromas; 3 schwannomas arising in skin and soft tissues) from 13 different patients into the subrenal capsules of 67 nude mice and sciatic nerves of 64 nude mide. The animals were anesthetized and the tumors were microscopically implanted. Serial tumor volumes were determined at intervals up to 2 months by reopening the incision and directly measuring the tumor size with a micrometer. The percentages of acoustic neuromas that survived or grew were 57.1% in the subrenal capsule and 88.9% in the sciatic nerves; the percentages of neurofibromas that survived and grew were 50% in the subrenal capsule and 70% in the sciatic nerves; and the percentages of schwannomas that survived and grew were 57.1% in the subrenal capsule and 94.1% in the sciatic nerve. Tumors in the sciatic nerve also survived and grew for a longer period than those in the subrenal capsules. Tumor enlargement and stability correlated with neovascularity. At 1 or 2 months after engraftment, the tumors showed histologic appearances similar to the original tumors and immunohistochemical analysis of cryostat sections demonstrated staining of the tumors, but not the host mouse tissues for human β2-microglobulin, a species-specific marker. Furthermore, analysis of genomic DNA from implanted tumors revealed its human origin. We conclude that human acoustic neuromas, neurofibromas and schwannomas are readily grown in two sites in nude mice and that they retain their morphologic features and genomic identities. These tumors grow better and more consistently in the sciatic nerve than in the subrenal capsule. These are useful model systems for studying tumor growth and cellular modulation.
GPR images of hidden crevasses in Antarctica

ABSTRACT GPR IMAGES OF HIDDEN CREVASSES IN ANTARCTICASteven A. Arcone and Allan J. DelaneyU. S. Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory72 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH 03755sarcone@crrel.usace.army.mil delaney@crrel.usace.army.mil EQUIPMENT AND PROCEDURESWe have used airborne and ground-based GPR at400500 MHz to image hidden crevasses in Antarctica. Theradar antennas were either pushed in front of a snowmobile, or cantilevered from a helicopter flying at about 6 malutude and speeds near 15 m/s. We used a high trace acquisition rate, long time ranges, and migration to show snow bridge depth, crevasse width, septums between crevasses, connecting cavities and associated folded strata inthe ground-based proffles. The crevasse images are formedby the discontinuities in reflections from the stratified firn.Diffractions from crevasse walls are strongly single-sided,originate from point and linear discontinuities, and provideadvance warning. Airborne recorded images are similar, butless detailed than surface images. An increased trace ratecould improve airborne imaging and allow greater profiles-s.Key words: radar, crevasses, AntarcticaWe used a GSSI, models lOa or b control unit and8W peak power 400500 MHz antenna transducers, whichproduce a 22.5 cycle pulse. For a ground-based antennatheoretical subsurface patterns in urn of density, p 0.5-0.9
High power upconversion lasing at 810 nm, in Tm:ZBLAN fibre

The Letter reports upconversion lasing at 810 nm in thulium doped fluorozirconate fibre pumped by an Nd:YAG laser at 1064 nm, with an output power greater than 1.2 W and slope efficiency of 37%. Tunability over the range 803–816 nm is demonstrated. This is the highest power and most efficient upconversion laser reported to date in any gain medium.
ThPOK acts late in specification of the helper T cell lineage and suppresses Runx-mediated commitment to the cytotoxic T cell lineage

The transcription factor ThPOK is required and sufficient for the generation of CD4(+)CD8(-) thymocytes, yet the mechanism by which ThPOK orchestrates differentiation into the CD4(+) helper T cell lineage remains unclear. Here we used reporter mice to track the expression of transcription factors in developing thymocytes. Distal promoter-driven expression of the gene encoding the transcription factor Runx3 was restricted to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I-selected thymocytes. In ThPOK-deficient mice, such expression was derepressed in MHC class II-selected thymocytes, which contributed to their redirection to the CD8(+) T cell lineage. In the absence of both ThPOK and Runx, redirection was prevented and cells potentially belonging to the CD4(+) lineage, presumably specified independently of ThPOK, were generated. Our results suggest that MHC class II-selected thymocytes are directed toward the CD4(+) lineage independently of ThPOK but require ThPOK to prevent Runx-dependent differentiation toward the CD8(+) lineage.
Mechanical approach in mitigating alkali-silica reaction

The effect of steel microfibers (SMF) on alkali-silica reaction (ASR) was investigated using two types of reactive aggregates, crushed opal and a Pyrex rod of constant diameter. Cracks are less visible in the SMF mortars compared with the unreinforced mortars. Due to crack growth resistance behavior in SMF mortar specimens, the strength loss is eliminated and the ASR products remained well confined within the ASR site. The expansion and the ASR products were characterized by microprobe analysis and inductive coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy. The confinement due to SMF resulted in a higher Na and Si ion concentration of the ASR liquid extracted from the reaction site. The higher concentration reduced the ASR rate and resulted in a lower reactivity of the reactive Pyrex rods in SMF mortars.
An eigenvalue pinching theorem

In 1958 Lichnerowicz [7] showed that for a compact n-dimensional riemannian manifold M, whose Ricci curvature is bounded below by n 1 , the first non-zero eigenvalue, 21, of the laplacian satisfies 2 t>n . If, in fact, 21 =n Obata proved that M must be isometric to the standard sphere. A natural question is: Do there exist constants C(n)> 1, depending only on n such that if M is as above and C(n). n> 21 > n then M must be diffeomorphic to a sphere. Here, by combining the works of Gromov [3], Berard and Meyer [1], and Grove and Shiohama [4], we show:
Plasmacytoma Arising in a Pacemaker Pocket

Abstract A 48-year-old man developed a plasmacytoma in the subcutaneous pocket of a titanium-covered pulse generator that had been inserted sixteen months previously. The tumor represented a cutaneous manifestation of myelomatosis. The presence of a pacemaker may affect the detection and treatment of tumors arising in the region of pulse generator pockets. Possible cause-and-effect relationships are explored.
Crystals and Concretions in the Vaginae of Persistent-Estrous Mice.

SummaryCrystals and concretions were found in the vaginae of A/Crgl, BALB/cCrgl and C57BL/Crgl mice with persistent estrus produced by injection of estradiol-17β for 5 days starting from day of birth. The concretions appeared at 6-7 months of age. Crystals have also been encountered in vaginal smears of C3H/Crgl and RIII/Crgl mice, which have been in persistent estrus for 2 months. The crystals resemble those of triple phosphates; the concretions consist largely of organic matter (including urate) and calcium phosphate.
Glutathione S-transferases of lung: purification and characterization of human lung glutathione S-transferases.

Glutathione S-transferases play a major role in the protection of tissues from the toxic effects of exnobiotics and the products of lipid peroxidation. In the present studies we demonstrate that human lung has two forms of glutathione (GSH) S-transferase having isoelectric pH of 4.9 and 9.2. These anionic and cationic forms represent about 98% and 2% of the total GSH S-transferase activity towards 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB). Although the cationic form accounts for only about 2% of the total GSH S-transferase activity of human lung, it comprises 28% of the total GSH S-transferase protein of lung. Both these enzymes express highest activity with CDNB and have similar Km values with this substrate, but the anionic enzyme is more active towards a wider range of substrates. Only the cationic enzyme expresses glutathione peroxidase II activity. Anionic and cationic human lung GSH S-transferases are homodimers of about Mr 22,000 and 24,000 subunits, respectively. Antiserum raised against the anionic GSH S-transferase does not cross react with the cationic form, but does cross react with anionic GSH S-transferases of human placenta, liver, and erythrocytes. A close structural interrelationship between the lung anionic form and placental GSH S-transferases is indicated by similar immunological characteristics and the presence of the same N-terminals for both enzymes.
Disposition of Tank 48H Organics by Fluidized Bed Steam Reforming (FBSR)

In order to make space in the Savannah River Site Tank farm, the Tank 48H waste must be removed. Therefore, the Tank 48H waste must be processed to reduce or eliminate levels of nitrates, nitrites, and sodium tetraphenyl borate in order to reduce impacts of these species before it is vitrified. Fluidized Bed Steam Reforming is being considered as a candidate technology for destroying the nitrates and the NaTPB prior to melting. The Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory was tasked to perform a proof-of-concept steam reforming test to evaluate the technical feasibility for pretreating the Tank 48H waste. The crucible (bench scale) tests conducted at the Savannah River Technology Center were initiated to optimize and augment the parameters subsequently tested at the pilot scale at INEEL. The purposes of the current study, organic destruction and downstream processing of T48H waste slurry were fulfilled. TPB was destroyed in all 19 samples tested with the simulated FB SR process at operational temperatures 650-725 degrees Celsius. A test temperature of 650 degrees Celsius optimized NO3 destruction during the formation of an Na2CO3 FBSR product. A test temperature of 725 degrees Celsius optimized NO3 destruction during formation of a sodium silicate FBSR product. Destruction of nitrate at greater than 99 per cent was achieved with addition of sugar as a reductant at 1X stoichiometry and total organic carbon analyses indicated that excess reductant was not present in the FBSR product. The use of sugar at 1X stoichiometry appears to ensure that excess reductant is not contained in the FBSR product that would alter the REDuction/OXidation equilibrium of the DWPF melter, while simultaneously assuring that NO3 is destroyed adequately. Destruction of antifoam with the simulated FBSR process was also achieved at operating temperatures between 650-725 degrees Celsius. based on measured total organic carbon.
The Linked Open Data Landscape in Libraries and Beyond

For many in the library field, linked open data (LOD) is both a common and an enigmatic phrase. Linked data has been the topic of many articles, books, conference presentations, and workshops in recent years. The topic, however, is one that many are still working to understand. This article is a brief primer and survey of the current LOD landscape for those who are either new to LOD or wish to reacquaint themselves with LOD. The article will start with a basic introduction to LOD, including some of the standards and formats involved. The second half will describe some of the major LOD projects and efforts in various fields, including libraries, archives, and museums, and provide links to selected resources for those who want to learn more.
Nocturnal Sleep and Blood Pressure in Essential Hypertension

Blood pressure and sleep-wakefulness patterns were monitored in the sleep laboratory over four consecutive nights in six patients with mild hypertension and six age- and sex-matched controls. In both hypertensives and normals, blood pressure levels decreased during sleep compared with presleep levels by 16.6 and 8.4%, respectively; levels for hypertensives, however, remained significantly above those for the normals. The nocturnal drop in blood pressure for both groups appeared to be related primarily to the general state of sleep rather than to any specific sleep stage. Nocturnal patterns of sleep stages and sleep cycling were almost identical for the two groups. Nocturnal blood pressure fluctuation was correlated positively with the distribution of noeturnal wakefulness in hypertensives but not in normotensives. This suggests that with hypertension there is some diminution of the dampening effect of sleep itself upon blood pressure which normally carries over into periods of nocturnal wakefulness. This ...
Dynamic Measurements of In-Place Steel Floors to Assess Vibration Performance

The research presented in this paper resolves several measurement issues pertaining to the experimental modal analysis of lightweight steel floor systems. This investigation represents a first step toward collecting more extensive data on the dynamic behavior of steel floor systems. These data can then be used to improve design and analysis procedures for assessing the vibration serviceability of a floor system before construction. Some of the issues investigated herein are the selection considerations for the data acquisition system and transducers, the appropriate type and placement of excitation, and fast Fourier transform processing considerations.
Cryopreservation and short-term storage of human lymphocytes for surface marker analysis. Comparison of three methods.

Abstract Three methods were compared for the cryopreservation and short-term storage of human lymphocytes for cell surface marker analysis with monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometry. These methods were (1) controlled-rate freezing followed by storage in liquid nitrogen (CR), (2) direct placement into liquid nitrogen (LN), and (3) direct placement at −70°C (−70). Our findings show that the LN and −70 methods of cryopreserving lymphocytes are as effective as the CR method for the purpose of determining T cell and large granular lymphocyte subsets within 1 month after freezing.
Readability Assessment of Internet-Based Patient Education Materials Related to Parathyroid Surgery.

Objectives:Patient education is critical in obtaining informed consent and reducing preoperative anxiety. Written patient education material (PEM) can supplement verbal communication to improve und...
Market Volatility as a Financial Soundness Indicator: An Application to Israel

Financial decisions of economic agents are based on volatility considerations. However, no aggregate indicators have been used by policymakers and regulators to assess the market risk environment. This paper applies a market volatility indicator to analyze the Israeli's transition toward inflation targeting. Unlike conventional measures of volatility, it shows a substantial decline once volatility is measured against the minimum variance for the same returns on assets. Using a conventional Multivariate GARCH model, we find that interest rates sensitivity to changes in the risk environment may be important for a correct identification of volatility patterns of individual assets.
Approaching ethical reasoning in nursing research through a communitarian perspective

Abstract Most nurse researchers are embedded in research ethics guidelines based predominantly on the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, and justice. They are oriented toward protecting the rights of individual research participants. However, in cross-cultural, community-based, and international projects, further examination is required of community rights, as an entity in and of itself, to acknowledge and protect the community’s rights. We suggest that communitarian philosophy is a perspective for the researcher to use in examining cross-cultural and international ethical questions. To show this assertion, dilemmas in community research are examined by using case studies and existing research ethics guidelines. Specific recommendations are offered for nursing scientists in practice, educational, and research settings seeking to balance the rights of the individual with those of the community.
Rotating and modulated rotating waves in transitions of an enclosed swirling flow

The transitions of the flow in an enclosed cylinder driven by the constant rotation of an endwall, from steady axisymmetric flow to aperiodic flow characterized by intermittent bursting dynamics where all the spatial and spatio-temporal symmetries have been broken, is studied numerically. The problem is controlled by two parameters, the Reynolds number and the cylinder aspect ratio. We vary the Reynolds number, fixing the aspect ratio at a value where the primary bifurcation of the axisymmetric steady state is to an axisymmetric periodic flow. The final transition to weak turbulence, however, is governed by a non-axisymmetric branch of rotating waves, which is the primary mode at lower aspect ratios, and the various branches of modulated rotating waves associated with subsequent bifurcations from the rotating wave. We study in detail the spatio-temporal characteristics of the various states encountered along the way, and how the symmetry of the problem impacts on the transition dynamics.
Molecular analysis of an anion pump : purification of the ArsC protein

The ars operon of resistance plasmid R773 encodes an anion-translocating ATPase which catalyzes extrusion of the oxyanions arsenite, antimonite, and arsenate, thus providing resistance to the toxic compounds. Although both arsenite and arsenate contain arsenic, they have different chemical properties. In the absence of the arsC gene the pump transports arsenite and antimonite, oxyanions with the +III oxidation state of arsenic or antimony. The complex neither transports nor provides resistance to arsenate, the oxyanion of the +V oxidation state of arsenic. The arsC gene encodes a 16-kDa polypeptide, the ArsC protein, which alters the substrate specificity of the pump to allow for recognition and transport of the alternate substrate arsenate. The arsC gene was cloned behind a strong promoter and expressed at high levels. The ArsC protein was purified and crystallized.
A compartment model for the membrane-coated fiber technique used for determining the absorption parameters of chemicals into lipophilic membranes.

Purpose. The purpose of this work was to develop a compartment model for the membrane-coated fiber (MCF) technique for determining the absorption parameters of chemicals into lipophilic membranes.
Colorimetric determination of boron in nitrate solutions

Abstract A method has been developed for the determination of microgram amounts of boron in nitrate solutions. Nitrate is destroyed with formic acid and sulphuric acid under reflux conditions. As much as 3 millimoles of nitrate are reduced completely by refluxing 1 ml of the nitrate solution with 1 ml of 88% formic acid for 15 minutes. Boron is determined by the carminic acid method after forming the colored complex in situ. This method has been applied to the determination of boron in uranyl nitrate solutions after extraction of uranium with tri-n-octylphosphine oxide dissolved in cyclohexane.
The etiology of liquidity crises and how managers can be better prepared

Financial shocks have become an increasingly pervasive feature of the global economic landscape. Among the two most prominent that have faced corporate managers during the past decade are the bursting of the technology bubble in 2000 and the ongoing global financial and economic crisis. These not only have had a chilling impact on the industries most directly involved, but they also occasioned a massive spillover into other industrial sectors, and in financial markets in general. “Contagion” is perhaps the most devastating aspect of such crises. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Radio aids to navigation

For centuries mariners have located their ships on the earth's waters by compass and dead reckoning and here the vagaries of the weather had to be considered. Since electronics came to the navigator's assistance, he has been able to obtain his fixes regardless of weather. Some of these electronic aids are described here.
Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome

Initially known as multiple system organ failure, the term multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) was first described in the 1960s in adults with bleeding, respiratory failure, and sepsis. It is defined as "the development of potentially reversible physiologic derangement involving two or more organ systems not involved in the disorder that resulted in ICU admission, and arising in the wake of a potentially life threatening physiologic insult."(3) There are many risk factors predisposing to MODS; however, the most common risk factors are shock due to any cause, sepsis, and tissue hypoperfusion. A dysregulated immune response, or immuneparalysis, in which the homeostasis between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory reaction is lost is thought to be key in the development of MODS. The clinical course and evolution of MODS is dependent on a combination of acquired and genetic factors. There are several nonspecific therapies for the prevention and resolution of MODS, mostly care is supportive. Mortality from MODS in septic pediatric patients varies between 11% and 54%.
An evaluation of several compressible turbulent boundary-layer models Effects of pressure gradient and Reynolds number

Computations, employing several turbulence models, are compared with a series of attached supersonic turbulent boundary-layer experiments over an extensive range of Reynolds numbers (11.7 x 10 to the 6th to 314 x 10 to the 6th). These experiments included measurements of surface pressure and skin friction for adverse pressure gradients ranging in magnitude from those of previous investigations to an order of magnitude greater. The turbulence models evaluated include algebraic and two-equation eddy-viscosity models and two full Reynolds stress models. In general all the models tested performed well independently of the magnitude of the pressure gradient or Reynolds number and could predict the measured skin friction for most cases with sufficient accuracy for engineering purposes.
Ethics in an Age of Information Seekers: A Survey of Licensed Healthcare Providers about Online Social Networking

The present study explores how licensed health care providers use social media. The researchers utilized a survey to explore 88 licensed psychologists, physicians, and social workers average numbers of Facebook© friends, social groups, and photo albums as well as attitudes toward possible regulation of online social networking by professional organizations. Statistically significant differences were found among groups regarding the degree to which they wanted guidance on ethically managing this new technology, with psychologists and social workers desiring more guidance than physicians. Overall, this study shows that the majority of the psychologists, physicians, and social workers who participated in this study now frequently use Facebook, often providing information on profiles that may include that which is not generally disclosed in a client–therapist relationship.
Portent Lore and Medieval Popular Culture

Norman R. Smith begins his essay by pointing out that there is no such thing as “popular” monster lore (teratology) in the Middle Ages, but goes on to say that a knowledge of the teratological thought of, say, Isidore of Seville, may give us a very good insight into the popular thoughtof the day. Ideas concerning “monstrous births,” considered portentous until recent times, tell us a great deal about the concepts men had of themselves in relation to their world, their god, and their historical place, factors which illuminate the imaginatively constructed ideas and their popularity during the Renaissance. Monster lore, of course, remains popular in our own day, hence our passionate interest in the Loch Ness Monster and our devotion to the myriad types of Frankenstein that have appeared recently, a fact that perhaps links us and our time in a rather startling way to the Middle Ages.
Urban Students’ Perceptions of Teachers: Views of Students in General, Special, and Honors Education

Students’ satisfaction with school experiences has been linked to their sense of belongingness, connection to school, and achievement. Though the extant research addresses students’ perceptions of school climate and sense of belonging, there is a paucity of research about students’ views of teacher–student interactions. Five hundred and seventy-seven students from one ethnically and academically diverse urban high school were surveyed and interviewed about the nature of teacher talk with students. Findings from this mixed-methods investigation indicate students from general, special, and honors programs experience a wide range of interactions based on academic services received, gender, and ethnicity. More frequent perceived punitive feedback was reported by all students in special education as well as males in general and honors education programs, while Hispanic students indicated a greater frequency of perceived supportive feedback. Findings also reflect a wide range of attitudes and feelings about teachers, the educational system, and learning.
Recalculated probability of M >= 7 earthquakes beneath the Sea of Marmara, Turkey

[1] New earthquake probability calculations are made for the Sea of Marmara region and the city of Istanbul, providing a revised forecast and an evaluation of time-dependent interaction techniques. Calculations incorporate newly obtained bathymetric images of the North Anatolian fault beneath the Sea of Marmara [Le Pichon et al., 2001; Armijo et al., 2002]. Newly interpreted fault segmentation enables an improved regional A.D. 1500– 2000 earthquake catalog and interevent model, which form the basis for time-dependent probability estimates. Calculations presented here also employ detailed models of coseismic and postseismic slip associated with the 17 August 1999 M = 7.4 Izmit earthquake to investigate effects of stress transfer on seismic hazard. Probability changes caused by the 1999 shock depend on Marmara Sea fault-stressing rates, which are calculated with a new finite element model. The combined 2004–2034 regional Poisson probability of M � 7 earthquakes is � 38%, the regional time-dependent probability is 44 ± 18%, and incorporation of stress transfer raises it to 53 ± 18%. The most important effect of adding time dependence and stress transfer to the calculations is an increase in the 30 year probability of a M � 7 earthquake affecting Istanbul. The 30 year Poisson probability at Istanbul is 21%, and the addition of time dependence and stress transfer raises it to 41 ± 14%. The ranges given on probability values are sensitivities of the calculations to input parameters determined by Monte Carlo analysis; 1000 calculations are made using parameters drawn at random from distributions. Sensitivities are large relative to mean probability values and enhancements caused by stress transfer, reflecting a poor understanding of large-earthquake aperiodicity. INDEX TERMS: 7223 Seismology: Seismic hazard assessment and prediction; 7230 Seismology: Seismicity and seismotectonics; 8150 Tectonophysics: Plate boundary—general (3040); KEYWORDS: earthquake probability, Sea of Marmara, seismic hazard, Turkey, stress interaction, North Anatolian fault
Regulation of (1-3)-beta-glucan-stimulated Ca(2+) influx by protein kinase C in NR8383 alveolar macrophages.

Stimulation of (1-3)-beta-glucan receptors results in Ca(2+) influx through receptor-operated channels in alveolar macrophages (AMs), but the mechanism(s) regulating Ca(2+) influx is still undefined. In this study we investigated the role of protein kinase C (PKC) regulation of Ca(2+) influx in the NR8383 AM cell line using the particulate (1-3)-beta-glucan receptor agonist zymosan. PKC inhibition with calphostin C (CC) or bisindolymaleimide I (BSM) significantly reduced zymosan-induced Ca(2+) influx, whereas activation of PKC with phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) or 1, 2-dioctanoyl-sn-glycerol (DOG) mimicked zymosan, inducing a concentration-dependent Ca(2+) influx. This influx was dependent on extracellular Ca(2+) and inhibited by the receptor-operated Ca(2+) channel blocker SK&F96365, indicating that zymosan and PKC activate Ca(2+) influx through a similar pathway. NR8383 AMs expressed one new PKC isoform (delta) and two atypical PKC isoforms (iota and lambda), but conventional PKC isoforms were not present. Stimulation with zymosan resulted in a translocation of PKC-delta from the cytosol to the membrane fraction. Furthermore, inhibition of protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) with genistein prevented zymosan-stimulated Ca(2+) influx and PKC-delta translocation. These results suggest that PKC-delta plays a critical role in regulating (1-3)-beta-glucan receptor activated Ca(2+) influx in NR8383 AMs and PKC-delta translocation is possibly dependent on PTK activity.
Selective Attenuation by N-0861 (N6-Endonorboran-2-yl-9-Methyladenine) of Cardiac A1 Adenosine Receptor–Mediated Effects in Humans

Background To determine the adenosine receptor subtype selectivity of the novel antagonist N-0861, the A1 and A2 receptor–mediated cardiac effects of adenosine were investigated in 13 patients during continuous intravenous infusion and boluses of adenosine before and after intravenous infusion of N-0861. Methods and Results Measurements of the atria-to-His (A-H) interval, chest pain severity, and coronary blood flow velocity were made before and after low-dose (69 μg · kg−1 · min−1) intravenous infusion and bolus (2.5 mg) adenosine. Two doses of N-0861 were infused intravenously, and the adenosine protocol was repeated. N-0861 0.25 mg/kg abolished the negative dromotropic effect (A-H interval prolongation) and chest discomfort experienced during infusion of adenosine and attenuated discomfort observed during the boluses of adenosine; however, the increase in coronary blood flow velocity was not significantly affected. Conclusions These actions of N-0861 support the concept that the negative dromotropic ef...
Federal government interventions and state welfare policy choices: Work requirements, sanctions, and lifetime limits

This study explored how work-performance bonuses and caseload reduction credits of the federal government influenced state work attachment provision choices such as mandatory work requirements, sanctions, and lifetime limits using administrative data. The study found a unique result—that a high-performance bonus from the federal government was significantly related to a state's adoption of a strict number of months allowed before work requirements. Also, the high-performance bonuses were a significant factor in inducing states to impose strict overall work-attachment strategies. The results of this study show that the federal government has continuously intervened in the policy making of state government through financial awards. Implications for influencing state welfare policy choices are discussed.
Atomic force microscope measurements of the hardness and elasticity of peritubular and intertubular human dentin

An atomic force microscope was used to measure the hardness and elasticity of fully-hydrated peritubular and intertubular human dentin. The standard silicon nitride AFM tip and silicon cantilever assembly were replaced with a diamond tip and stainless steel cantilever having significantly higher stiffness. Hardness was measured as the ratio of the applied force to the projected indentation area for indentations with depths from 10-20 nm. The sample stiffness was measured by imaging specimens in a force-modulated mode. Hardness values of 2.3 +/- 0.3 GPa and 0.5 +/- 0.1 GPa were measured for the peritubular and intertubular dentin, respectively. Stiffness imaging revealed that the elastic modulus of the peritubular dentin was spatially homogeneous; whereas, there was considerable spatial variation in the elasticity of the intertubular dentin. The atomic force microscope can be used to measure the mechanical properties of fully hydrated calcified tissues at the submicron level of spatial resolution, thus augmenting more traditional depth sensing probes.
Validation of the Lactate Plus Lactate Meter in the Horse and Its Use in a Conditioning Program

The equine industry has a need for a convenient, rapid, and reliable method of measuring blood lactate concentrations ([LA]). We hypothesized that the handheld Lactate Plus lactate meter (LPlus), developed and tested for use in humans, would provide dependable results when used in horses undergoing an exercise conditioning program and that horse’s fitness would improve following individualized conditioning based on each horse’s velocity at which [LA] ¼ 4 mmol/L (VLA4) was reached. Five adult horses underwent a 4-week training program that consisted of 3 exercise bouts/wk. Horses were subjected to an incremental step standardized exercise test (SET) before starting (SET-1) and after the completion of the program (SET-2). Blood samples were collected before each increase in speed until [LA] reached � 4 mmol/L, and then the SET was terminated. The [LA] sample range in our study was 0–8 mmol/L. Blood was analyzed at the time of collection using a calibrated LPlus, and plasma was collected for [LA] determination using the lactate dehydrogenase–based enzymatic colorimetric method. Although the LPlus tended to significantly underestimate [LA] by 0.39 mmol/L (P < .001), the LPlus proved to be a dependable device for use in horses based on good correlation with the biochemical analysis (r ¼ 0.978) and Bland–Altman limits of agreement and 95% confidence intervals. All horses showed an increase in V LA4 from SET-1 to SET-2, consistent with improved fitness following our 3 exercise bout/wk training protocol. The LPlus can reliably be used in horses to determine [LA] ranging from 0–8 mmol/L. When determining serial [LA], analytical techniques should not be used interchangeably.
Intelligent light control using sensor networks

Increasing user comfort and reducing operation costs have always been two primary objectives of building operations and control strategies. Current building control strategies are unable to incorporate occupant level comfort and meet the operation goals simultaneously. In this paper, we present a novel utility-based building control strategy that optimizes the tradeoff between meeting user comfort and reduction in operation cost by reducing energy usage. We present an implementation of the proposed approach as an intelligent lighting control strategy that significantly reduces energy cost. Our approach is based on a principled, decision theoretic formulation of the control task. We demonstrate the use of mobile wireless sensor networks to optimize the trade-off between fulfilling different occupants' light preferences and minimizing energy consumption. We further extend our approach to optimally exploit external light sources for additional energy savings, a process called daylight harvesting. Also we demonstrate that an active sensing approach can maximize the mobile sensor network's lifetime by sensing only during most informative situations. We provide efficient algorithms for solving the underlying complex optimization problems, and extensively evaluate our proposed approach in a proof-of-concept testbed using MICA2 motes and dimmable lamps. Our results indicate a significant improvement in user utility and reduced energy expenditure.
Parametric Uncertainty Identification and Model Reduction for Robust H2 Synthesis for Track-Following in Dual-Stage Hard Disk Drives

This paper presents a systematic, semi-automated method for identifying parameters and parametric uncertainty for a set of dual-stage hard disk drives. A modal analysis technique is selected to extract parameters from a batch of frequency response data. In order to avoid redundancy in modal parameters, a method of data fusion is incorporated into the modal analysis to find common parameters for multiple frequency response functions. Next, a model truncation methodology is presented as an alternative way to eliminate redundant parameters from a multiple-input-multiple-output system model. In both model reduction methods, optimization algorithms are employed to minimize the error associated with the reduced order model. Finally, convex optimization and singular value decomposition are employed to obtain a low-order, minimally conservative approximation of uncertain parameters. The result is a reduced order state space model with parametric uncertainty to be used in robust H2 control synthesis for a track-following hard disk drive servo.
The Argentine Ant Persists Through Unfavorable Winters Via a Mutualism Facilitated By a Native Tree

Mutualisms and facilitations can fundamentally change the relationship between an organism's realized and fundamental niche. Invasive species may prove particularly suitable models for investigating this relationship as many are dependent on finding new partners for successful establishment. We conducted field-based experiments testing whether a native tree facilitates the successful survival of the invasive Argentine ant, Linepithema humile (Mayr), through unfavorable winter conditions in the southeastern United States. We found Argentine ant nests aggregated around the native loblolly pine, Pinus taeda L., during the winter months. The bark of this tree absorbed enough radiant solar energy to reach temperatures suitable for Argentine ant foraging even when ambient temperatures should have curtailed all foraging. Conversely, foraging ceased when the trunk was shaded. The sun-warmed bark of this tree gave the Argentine ant access to a stable honeydew resource. Argentine ants were not found on or near deciduous trees even though bark temperatures were warm enough to permit Argentine ant foraging on cold winter days. Augmenting deciduous trees with sucrose water through the winter months lead to Argentine ant nests remaining at their base and Argentine ants foraging on the tree. The Argentine ant requires both foraging opportunity and a reliable winter food source to survive through unfavorable winter conditions in the southeastern United States. The loblolly pine provided both of these requirements extending the realized niche of Argentine ants beyond its fundamental niche.
Derivation and preliminary validation of an administrative claims-based algorithm for the effectiveness of medications for rheumatoid arthritis

Administrative claims data have not commonly been used to study the clinical effectiveness of medications for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) because of the lack of a validated algorithm for this outcome. We created and tested a claims-based algorithm to serve as a proxy for the clinical effectiveness of RA medications. We linked Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical and pharmacy claims for RA patients participating in the longitudinal Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) RA registry (VARA). Among individuals for whom treatment with a new biologic agent or nonbiologic disease-modifying agent in rheumatic disease (DMARD) was being initiated and with registry follow-up at 1 year, VARA and administrative data were used to create a gold standard for the claims-based effectiveness algorithm. The gold standard outcome was low disease activity (LDA) (Disease Activity Score using 28 joint counts (DAS28) ≤ 3.2) or improvement in DAS28 by > 1.2 units at 12 ± 2 months, with high adherence to therapy. The claims-based effectiveness algorithm incorporated biologic dose escalation or switching, addition of new disease-modifying agents, increase in oral glucocorticoid use and dose as well as parenteral glucocorticoid injections. Among 1,397 patients, we identified 305 eligible biologic or DMARD treatment episodes in 269 unique individuals. The patients were primarily men (94%) with a mean (± SD) age of 62 ± 10 years. At 1 year, 27% of treatment episodes achieved the effectiveness gold standard. The performance characteristics of the effectiveness algorithm were as follows: positive predictive value, 76% (95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 71% to 81%); negative predictive value, 90% (95% CI = 88% to 92%); sensitivity, 72% (95% CI = 67% to 77%); and specificity, 91% (95% CI = 89% to 93%). Administrative claims data may be useful in evaluating the effectiveness of medications for RA. Further validation of this effectiveness algorithm will be useful in assessing its generalizability and performance in other populations.
Studies of the micro- and nanostructure of polycrystalline CdTe and CuInSe2 using atomic force and scanning tunneling microscopy

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) have been used to study the micro- and nanostructure of CdTe and CuInSe2 thin films used for photovoltaic cells. Topographic images are comparable with those reported previously using conventional scanning electron microscopy (SEM)—to the limit of spatial resolution of the SEM technique. For higher magnifications, nanoscale structures and features have been observed for the first time with AFM and STM, and these observations have implications for the suitability and preparation of these semiconductors for high-efficiency solar cell realization.
Behavior Problem Indices The Differential Effects of Spatial Density on Low and High Scorers

The differential effects of spatial density on five year-old children who were divided into "low" and "high" on dimensions of hyperactivity-distractibility, anxiety, hostility-aggressiveness, behavior disturbance, and motor inhibition were examined. Sex differences in interaction with the above behavioral dimensions were also investigated. In general, normal children motorically adjusted to a high-density condition to a greater degree than children with behavior problems. Anxious and impulsive children were especially distressed by a high-density condition, compared to normals.
Scapegoating: Dynamics and Interventions in Group Counseling

Scapegoating in group counseling may be understood from the perspective of 3 levels of group functioning: intrapsychic, interpersonal, and the group as an entity. Intense scapegoating interactions tend to trigger defense mechanisms among group members. The article reviews a progressive 3-stage conceptualization of group development that contributes to a more complete understanding of the means to initiate therapeutic change of the phenomenon. Various interventions outlined in the article can assist the group counselor in effectively responding to scapegoating in group counseling.
A 10 m Nb 3 Sn cable for 60 Hz power transmission

A 10 m Nb 3 Sn cable for 60 Hz power transmission has been constructed. The coaxial cable is of flexible, multiple helix, tape wound form. It has been designed and instrumented for short circuit current tests. The inner and outer conductor diameters are approximately 24 and 30 mm respectively. The cable is installed in a horizontal cryostat with its ends fixed to room temperature supports. Measurements have been made of ac losses, fault currents, current sharing, and recovery from local quenches.
How do cilia organize signalling cascades

Cilia and flagella are closely related centriole-nucleated protrusions of the cell with roles in motility and signal transduction. Two of the best-studied signalling pathways organized by cilia are the transduction cascade for the morphogen Hedgehog in vertebrates and the mating pathway that initiates gamete fusion in the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. What is the role of cilia in these signalling transduction cascades? In both Hedgehog and mating pathways, all signalling intermediates have been found to localize to cilia, and, for some signalling factors, ciliary localization is regulated by pathway activation. Given a concentration factor of three orders of magnitude provided by translocating a protein into the cilium, the compartment model proposes that cilia act as miniaturized reaction tubes bringing signalling factors and processing enzymes in close proximity. On the other hand, the scaffolding model views the intraflagellar transport machinery, whose primary function is to build cilia and flagella, as a molecular scaffold for the mating transduction cascade at the flagellar membrane. While these models may coexist, it is hoped that a precise understanding of the mechanisms that govern signalling inside cilia will provide a satisfying answer to the question 'how do cilia organize signalling?'. This review covers the evidence supporting each model of signalling and outlines future directions that may address which model applies in given biological settings.
Mode changes in a real-time architecture description language

MetaH is a language used to describe the overall configuration or architecture of a real-time avionics application. The language includes a feature called a mode, which allows the set of processes, or the connections between those processes, to be changed dynamically by the application during system operation. The language requires all possible modes of operation to be statically declared, which facilitates both automatic code assembly and real-time schedulability analysis. >