cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
"Is Nothing Sacred?": Flag Desecration, The Constitution and The Establishment of Religion

normative worldview of civil society, and the inalienable rights of its citizens. History became transmuted into the process of legal discourse. The stars of the canton therefore signify more than the original thirteen colonies. They embody the organizing principle of American society. If, as Walter Benjamin once argued, "[i]deas are to objects as constellations are to stars," 61 the concrete, i.e., objects or stars, become meaningful only in abstract configurations-in their relationship to the totality. Likewise, the individual members of the body politic have meaning only insofar as they are related to the normative worldview of the abstract totality. As individuals whose legal "personhood" is. derived from their relationship to the totality, citizens stand in relation to the body politic as do creatures to the creation. It should not be surprising, therefore, that Americans regard the symbol of that creation or totality with awe and religious devotion. In the words of President Bush on Flag Day, "The 'new constellation' of which the Continental Congress spoke was our young Nation, a nation where 'freedom's holy light' would gleam forth, giving hope to all those living in the darkness of tyranny and serving as a guide to all those charting their own course toward liberty and self-government."62 In the nation, symbolized by the flag, lies the power to redeem those who would be "other"-wise lost and incomplete. The salvific overtones of the totality which locate, complete, and identify individuals imbue the nation's emblem with its aura of sanctity. "What that flag encapsulates," insisted President Bush, "is too sacred to be abused."6 As the visual representation of the totality, the flag makes possible the individual as citizen of the body politic and establishes the sine qua non of meaningful speech-speech made recognizable by the totality as political discourse. Therefore, to burn the flag is to attack not just the policies of the government but the force that animates the body politic. Yet, even though the flag symbolizes the power of creation that makes the citizen what s/he is, is the metaphor of sacredness merely an hyperbole or is it an accurate sociological description? 81 W. BENJAMIN, Epistemo-Critical Prologue, THE ORIGIN OF GERMAN TRAGIC DRAMA 34 (J. Osbourne trans. 1977). 02 Proclamation No. 6145: President's 1990 Proclamation of Flag Day and National Flag Week, 26 WEEKLY COMP. PRES. Doc. 949, 950 (June 14, 1990). 83 Remarks, supra note 50. [Vol. 65:297
Involvement of integration host factor (IHF) in maintenance of plasmid pSC101 in Escherichia coli: characterization of pSC101 mutants that replicate in the absence of IHF.

Abstract Escherichia coli mutants defective in the stable maintenance of plasmid pSC101 have been isolated following Tn10 insertion mutagenesis. One class of mutations affecting pSC101 replication was located in the genes himA and himD (hip), which encode the two subunits of integration host factor (IHF), a small histonelike DNA-binding protein that has multiple cellular functions. Mutants of pSC101 that could replicate in the absence of IHF were isolated and characterized; four independent mutational alterations were found to affect the third codon of the pSC101 rep gene, resulting in the replacement of glutamic acid by lysine. The compensating alteration appears to function by altering the activity of the pSC101 rep protein in him mutants.
Toward Supervolcano technology

Time-lapse seismic tomography can provide detailed insights into magma movements in an active volcano and may help to predict volcanic hazards in the future.
Testing the adaptive significance of sex-specific mating tactics in collared lizards (Crotaphytus collaris)

We tested whether territorial defence is adaptive in male collared lizards by examining the extent to which territory owners monopolize females. We also tested whether females benefit by mating with multiple males using alternative tactics when local sex ratios varied. Surprisingly, neither the number of offspring that males sired, nor the number of females that males mated with varied as a consequence of highly variable local sex ratios. Moreover, both the number of offspring sired and the number of female mates were independent of male social status. Courtship frequency was under positive directional sexual selection for mating success for territorial males. None of the phenotypic traits that we examined were targets of sexual selection in nonterritorial males. Although offspring survivorship decreased with the degree of multiple mating, females mated multiply with similar numbers of territorial and nonterritorial males during all three seasons. Females did not obtain material or genetic benefits that balanced the apparent offspring survival cost imposed by mating with multiple males. Instead, females appeared to be ‘making the best of a bad job’, perhaps because the abundance of hiding places used by subordinate males makes it difficult for females to avoid male harassment. © 2015 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2015, ••, ••‐••.
Dopaminergic mediation of the discriminative stimulus functions of modafinil in rats.

Rationale Modafinil is a wake-promoting drug with FDA approval for the treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness that has been prescribed for ADHD and recently assessed as a potential treatment for psychostimulant dependence. Previous research indicates that modafinil modestly increases locomotor activity and produces similar discriminative stimulus effects to psychostimulants in rodents, although the subjective effects of modafinil are reportedly distinct from those of cocaine or amphetamine in humans with a history of psychostimulant abuse.
Nonlinear optical susceptibility measurements in colloidal solutions

Nonlinear optical measurements play an important role in characterization of colloidal solution. It is necessary to design a method for fast, simple and in the same time accurate nonlinear optical characterization of solutions. This paper describes a simple method to measure third-order nonlinear susceptibilities of highly scattered liquids. This method is currently applied for studying the aggregation and polarization of nanoparticles and microspheres in solution.
Microvascular reconstruction of the mandible: An argument for the fibula osteocutaneous free flap

a b s t r a c t Introduction/objective: The fibula osteocutaneous free flap has been a workhorse for mandibu- lar reconstruction since Hidalgo's original description for its use for this purpose. The objective of this manuscript is to review the use of the fibula flap in mandibular reconstruc- tion and to answer some of the commonly held misconceptions as to why some surgeons view it as an inferior reconstructive option to the vascularized iliac crest flap. Materials/methods: Review of the literature as it relates to the use of the fibula free flap in mandibular reconstruction and the senior author's experience. Results: The bicortical nature of the fibula provides a stable platform for endosseous implant placement, thus allowing for comprehensive oral rehabilitation and improving the quality of life in reconstructed patients. The fibula osteocutaneous free flap, however, is the longest vascularized bone flap available, allowing for reconstruction of the entire mandible. Given these attributes, it would seem unlikely that doubts regarding the adequacy of the fibula free flap in mandibular reconstruction exists. However, the principal arguments challenging the use of the fibula osteocutaneous free flap are the lack of height of the reconstructed fibula compared to the native mandible, unreliable skin perforators to support a skin paddle, insufficient soft tissue coverage, and the presence of vascular anomalies which may preclude its use. These presumed shortcomings are circumvented with various proven techniques to increase fibular height and anatomic studies demonstrating the cutaneous perforator patterns. Conclusions: With these simple solutions in mind, the fibula osteocutaneous free flap will likely remain a workhorse for mandibular reconstruction, allowing for the reconstruction of virtually any oromandibular defect. It allows for both aesthetic, as well as, functional reconstruction of the mandible.
The anti-plane shear problem of debonding of two solids made of power law hardening materials

Debonding of two different solids made of power law hardening materials is studied for the case of anti-plane shear loading mode by using an interface crack model. The stresses and the stress intensity factor at the interface crack are determined analytically. Using these analytical results, the constitutive equations by Hencky–Ilyushin and the general equation of energy in the neighborhood of the crack tip, the adhesion energy for the loading mode under consideration is found analytically. It can be observed that for the particular case of two linearly elastic materials and a homogeneous linearly elastic material the solution found here is in excellent agreement with the solutions found in the literature.
Immunohistochemical localization of alpha1-acid-glycoprotein in human liver parenchymal cells.

α1-acid glycoprotein, a major human serum glycoprotein was detected and localized in human liver parenchymal cells of a biopsy specimen. A heavy metal salt containing fixative was required to retain sufficient antigen determinants of α1-acid glycoprotein in order to visualize this protein by the peroxidase-anti-peroxidase unlabeled antibody enzyme method.
Polymeric hollow fibers for capillary electrophoresis

In this paper, polymeric hollow fibers prepared from polypropylene and polybutylene terephthalate were used as CE columns. Surface modifications with polyacrylamide greatly improved the performance of the capillaries. Separations of substituted pyridines, model proteins and standard ribonucleotides were demonstrated. The column efficiency for model proteins was over 200,000 theoretical plates. Comparisons of electroosmotic flow, UV absorption properties, heat dissipation, and diameter variation between fused silica capillaries and polymeric hollow fibers were made. The practical potential of small diameter polymeric hollow fibers as CE columns was evaluated.
Assessment of Environmental Cockroach Allergen Exposure

In the past, cockroach allergen exposure assessment mainly focused on settled dust in homes in low-income urban cities in the United States. That choice was not wrong; without measureable levels of cockroach allergen, it is difficult to show associations with any home characteristics, much less with health outcomes (e.g., allergy, asthma). However, recent studies in other suburban areas, schools, and other countries have elucidated the importance of cockroach allergen in these environments too. In addition, characterizing the underlying factors that give rise to cockroach allergen exposure (or protect against it) can lead to more targeted public health interventions. This review discusses different approaches to sampling indoor environments, interprets recent asthma and allergy studies, compares cockroach allergen levels from past studies with those of recent studies, and describes strategies for decreasing exposures.
LNT + in situ SCR catalyst system for diesel emissions control

Abstract An overview is presented of laboratory and vehicle studies conducted at Ford Motor Company on the LNT + in situ SCR catalyst approach to diesel emissions control. Specifically, the paper focuses on results obtained with so-called “2nd-generation” systems developed by Ford's catalyst suppliers since 2007–2008. These systems are characterized by improvements in durability, performance and cost relative to their predecessors. Key features of the 2nd-generation LNT + in situ SCR technology include: (1) lower desulfation temperatures of the LNT, (2) lower LNT platinum group metal (PGM) content than required for LNT-only systems, (3) advanced SCR catalysts of the types used in commercial zeolite-based SCR applications, (4) synergetic coupling of the LNT and SCR catalyst performance to maintain high efficiency after aging, (5) a non-ammonia NOx reduction mechanism over the SCR catalyst in addition to the standard mechanism based on ammonia storage, and (6) improved hydrocarbon oxidation efficiency owing to the SCR catalyst. Taken together, these advances improve the prospect of meeting future emission regulations on light-duty diesel vehicles, but not without considerable challenge to both the aftertreatment system and control strategy for achieving simultaneous low NOx and non-methane hydrocarbon emissions while minimizing fuel consumption.
Complex elaboration: making sense of meiotic cohesin dynamics

In mitotically dividing cells, the cohesin complex tethers sister chromatids, the products of DNA replication, together from the time they are generated during S phase until anaphase. Cohesion between sister chromatids ensures accurate chromosome segregation, and promotes normal gene regulation and certain kinds of DNA repair. In somatic cells, the core cohesin complex is composed of four subunits: Smc1, Smc3, Rad21 and an SA subunit. During meiotic cell divisions meiosis-specific isoforms of several of the cohesin subunits are also expressed and incorporated into distinct meiotic cohesin complexes. The relative contributions of these meiosis-specific forms of cohesin to chromosome dynamics during meiotic progression have not been fully worked out. However, the localization of these proteins during chromosome pairing and synapsis, and their unique loss-of-function phenotypes, suggest non-overlapping roles in controlling meiotic chromosome behavior. Many of the proteins that regulate cohesin function during mitosis also appear to regulate cohesin during meiosis. Here we review how cohesin contributes to meiotic chromosome dynamics, and explore similarities and differences between cohesin regulation during the mitotic cell cycle and meiotic progression. A deeper understanding of the regulation and function of cohesin in meiosis will provide important new insights into how the cohesin complex is able to promote distinct kinds of chromosome interactions under diverse conditions.
Expression of Ca antigen on human urinary bladder tumors

Flow cytometric measurements of Ca antigen (Ca) visualized by immunofluorescence with Ca1 monoclonal antibody (Ca1) were performed on cells from 26 urinary bladder carcinomas of various histologic grades and DNA ploidy and on 6 samples of morphologically normal urothelium. In normal urothelium and in the 14 diploid tumors the proportion of positively staining cells was low and the differences were not statistically significant. A significant increase in the proportion of fluorescent cells was observed in all but one of the 12 aneuploid tumors. Among the 11 tumors with an increased proportion of positive cells, 7 were invasive. Data recorded in this study suggest that the quantitation of Ca1 fluorescence corresponding to the presence of Ca may prove to be helpful in the evaluation of clinical behavior of bladder tumors.
The weighted fuzzy expected interval

Abstract The use of the fuzzy expected value (FEV) as a ‘typical’ grade of membership within a fuzzy set, may occasionally generate improper results. In these cases we replace it by the weighted fuzzy expected value (WFEV) and demonstrate its improved performance. However, when the information available is fuzzy or incomplete, neither the FEV nor the WFEV is applicable. We will explain the concepts of the FEV and the WFEV and show how the WFEV can be modified and still be used to compute a typical value by introducing a new concept - the weighted fuzzy expected interval (WFEI).
Shear stress and the endothelial transport barrier

The shear stress of flowing blood on the surfaces of endothelial cells that provide the barrier to transport of solutes and water between blood and the underlying tissue modulates the permeability to solutes and the hydraulic conductivity. This review begins with a discussion of transport pathways across the endothelium and then considers the experimental evidence from both in vivo and in vitro studies that shows an influence of shear stress on endothelial transport properties after both acute (minutes to hours) and chronic (hours to days) changes in shear stress. Next, the effects of shear stress on individual transport pathways (tight junctions, adherens junctions, vesicles and leaky junctions) are described, and this information is integrated with the transport experiments to suggest mechanisms controlling both acute and chronic responses of transport properties to shear stress. The review ends with a summary of future research challenges.
Surface acoustic waves on nanocrystalline diamond

Abstract Surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices based on polycrystalline diamond have recently achieved success as microwave filters. This is due in part to the large acoustic wavelength of diamond at microwave frequencies, a consequence of its high surface wave velocity, and the resulting ability to use photolithography for transducer fabrication. Since nanocrystalline diamond has a smooth surface and is elastically isotropic, it may offer considerable advantages over thick films of polycrystalline diamond. We have studied the propagation of surface waves on nanocrystalline diamond prepared by microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on silicon substrates. Films were synthesized on 75-mm Si wafers using input gas mixtures consisting of Ar with 1% CH4 and 0–4% H2. The deposition parameters studied included pressure, 2.45 GHz microwave power, and total gas flow rate. Film thicknesses up to 23 μm were produced. SAW transducers were fabricated by photolithography on as-grown nanocrystalline diamond surfaces covered with a 1–3 μm overlayer of oriented polycrystalline piezoelectric ZnO prepared by reactive dc sputtering. The device response was analyzed with frequency and time domain methods. The resonant frequencies of the devices agree with the results of numerical solutions for sound propagation in layered media. Several surface acoustic modes exist at frequencies between 0.5 and 1 GHz that exhibit appreciable dispersion. We have propagated surface waves in nanocrystalline diamond over distances varying from 0.1 to 3 mm with low attenuation. For a film with mean grain size of approximately 30 nm, the SAW velocity is similar to test devices on thick polycrystalline diamond. We conclude that nanocrystalline diamond is a highly attractive substrate material for SAW devices, possessing the high sound velocity of diamond but requiring less materials processing.
Race and gender effects on item functioning on the Kaufman assessment battery for children

Abstract This study addresses differential item functioning (DIF) on the K-ABC using the partial correlation technique devised by Stricker (1982) and Reynolds and Willson (1984) to detect race (black, white) and gender differences on item means that are independent of overall ability differences. Based on 2,932 item comparisons across the 10 mental processing subtests of the K-ABC, it was determined that 23 items on the various subtests were biased against blacks and 13 were biased against whites. When gender was considered, 12 items were biased against males and 16 against females. The ratio of neither the racially nor the sexually biased items exceeded chance expectations. Gestalt Closure contained the most biased items. The reasons for the bias in Gestalt Closure are unclear. Overall, the effects of these biases on total score differences across groups are inconsequential; there appears to be little evidence of systematic race or gender bias on the K-ABC.
Growth or a Clean Environment? Responses to Petroleum-related Pollution in the Gulf Coast Refining Region

The power of history to instruct policy makers and enforcers is demonstrated in this study of the seventy-five-year effort to control pollution by the petroleum industry of the upper Texas Gulf coast. Dividing his subject into three time periods, Professor Pratt shows that the goal of economic growth, even with highly inefficient and polluting production methods, ruled until about 1914; from 1914 to 1940, progress in pollution control resulted primarily from less wasteful refining technology; and in the most recent era pollution, having become critical, is finally being controlled insofar as industry cooperation and national regulation can achieve it. But, he warns, the problem has now attained international proportions, and he asks where the social institutions to effect regulation are to be found on that plane.
Bibliographical Classification: The Ideas and Achievements of Henry E. Bliss

ABSTRACT The ideas and achievements of Henry Evelyn Bliss concerning classification are introduced, based mainly on material in the Henry E. Bliss Papers at Columbia University. The life and career of Bliss are outlined and his writing style examined. His views on various aspects of classification are described and exemplified: its functions, arrangements, adaptability, and notation. The role and qualifications of classificationers (compilers) and classifiers (indexers) are discussed. Advantages and disadvantages of standard systems, including the Library of Congress Classification, Dewey Decimal Classification, and Universal Decimal Classification, are assessed. The origins, evolution, publication, and impact of Bliss's Bibliographic Classification are described. The relationship of his scheme to the radical revision in the form of the Bliss Bibliographic Classification, 2nd edition, is explored.
Predictors of mortality in pulmonary thromboendarterectomy

Background. The operative mortality associated with surgical thromboendarterectomy of the pulmonary arteries has decreased at the University of California in San Diego with the application of new techniques. For universal performance of the procedure, however, those factors that contribute to the high operative mortality must be identified. We analyzed our results in 34 consecutive patients undergoing pulmonary thromboendarterectomy to determine those preoperative factors that contribute to operative mortality. Methods. Since 1983, 34 patients with severe, surgically correctable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension who were judged to be operable by pulmonary arteriography underwent pulmonary thromboendarterectomy. No patient was excluded because of right ventricular failure or hemodynamic severity of disease; the mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) was 54 mm Hg, the mean pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) was 1,094 dynes · s · cm −5 , and all patients were in New York Heart Association functional class III or IV. Results. Postoperative course was characterized either by swift recovery (mean length of stay, 13 days) or by rapid demise resulting from pulmonary or right ventricular failure, or both (overall operative mortality, 23%). In survivors, the mean PAP, PVR, cardiac output, and New York Heart Association functional class were significantly improved ( p p −5 ; p −5 and a mean PAP of more than 50 mm Hg could accurately predict operative mortality: operative mortality was six times greater in patients with a preoperative PVR of greater than 1,100 dynes · s · cm −5 (41% versus 5.85%) and almost five times greater in those with a mean PAP of greater than 50 mm Hg (37% versus 8%). No intraoperative factors, including the use or duration of circulatory arrest, affected outcome. Conclusions. Patients with severe hemodynamic disease (PVR >1,100 dynes · s · cm −5 and PAP >50 mm Hg) have a high likelihood of operative mortality and perhaps should not undergo pulmonary thromboendarterectomy, except at institutions where the operation is performed frequently.
Monitoring the quality of mix of polymer melts with particulate fillers using fluorescence spectroscopy

Fluorescence spectroscopy has been employed to monitor the mixing of polymer melts with filler material. The polymer melts were low molecular weight polybutadiene and PBAN, a terpolymer consisting of 85% butadiene, 11% acrylonitrile, 4% acrylic acid, and the filler material was aluminum oxide. To carry out the fluorescence observations, a dopant chromophore was mixed into the polymer melt at very low concentrations, 10−4 to 10−6 molar or 11 to 0.11 ppm by weight. The mixing experiments were carried out using a small laboratory mixer which had glass walls for viewing the fluorescence spectra from the dopant chromophore. Fluctuations in fluorescence intensity were observed to decrease as a function of mixing time indicating that the spatial distribution of the fluorescent chromophores was becoming more uniform. Concerning the mixing of polymer melt and filler, we hypothesize that uniform mixing of ingredients is achieved when fluorescence intensity as a function of time is constant. In order to obtain quantitative support for this hypothesis, we used a fluorescence microscope to measure fluorescence intensity and optical transmittance from microscopic regions of well-mixed and poorly mixed specimens.
The Congress of Vienna: A Reappraisal

It is only natural that a period anxiously seeking to wrest peace from the threat of nuclear extinction should look nostalgically to the last great successful effort to settle international disputes by means of a diplomatic conference, the Congress of Vienna. Nothing is more tempting than to ascribe its achievements to the very process of negotiation, to diplomatic skill, and to “willingness to come to an agreement”—and nothing is more dangerous. For the effectiveness of diplomacy depends on elements transcending it; in part on the domestic structure of the states comprising the international order, in part on their power relationship.
Small order graph-tree Ramsey numbers

With but a few exceptions, the Ramsey number r(G,T) is determined for all connected graphs G with at most five vertices and all trees T.
Connectivity across the Caribbean Sea: DNA barcoding and morphology unite an enigmatic fish larva from the Florida straits with a new species of sea bass from deep reefs off Curaçao.

Integrative taxonomy, in which multiple disciplines are combined to address questions related to biological species diversity, is a valuable tool for identifying pelagic marine fish larvae and recognizing the existence of new fish species. Here we combine data from DNA barcoding, comparative morphology, and analysis of color patterns to identify an unusual fish larva from the Florida Straits and demonstrate that it is the pelagic larval phase of a previously undescribed species of Liopropoma sea bass from deep reefs off Curacao, southern Caribbean. The larva is unique among larvae of the teleost family Serranidae, Tribe Liopropomini, in having seven elongate dorsal-fin spines. Adults of the new species are similar to the golden bass, Liopropoma aberrans, with which they have been confused, but they are distinct genetically and morphologically. The new species differs from all other western Atlantic liopropomins in having IX, 11 dorsal-fin rays and in having a unique color pattern–most notably the predominance of yellow pigment on the dorsal portion of the trunk, a pale to white body ventrally, and yellow spots scattered across both the dorsal and ventral portions of the trunk. Exploration of deep reefs to 300 m using a manned submersible off Curacao is resulting in the discovery of numerous new fish species, improving our genetic databases, and greatly enhancing our understanding of deep-reef fish diversity in the southern Caribbean. Oh the mother and child reunion is only a moment away. Paul Simon.
Attack–norm separation for detecting attack‐induced quality problems on computers and networks

Cyber attacks on computer and network systems induce system quality and reliability problems, and present a significant threat to the computer and network systems that we are heavily dependent on. Cyber attack detection involves monitoring system data and detecting the attack-induced quality and reliability problems of computer and network systems caused by cyber attacks. Usually there are ongoing normal user activities on computer and network systems when an attack occurs. As a result, the observed system data may be a mixture of attack data and normal use data (norm data). We have established a novel attack–norm separation approach to cyber attack detection that includes norm data cancelation to improve the data quality as an important part of this approach. Aiming at demonstrating the importance of norm data cancelation, this paper presents a set of data modeling and analysis techniques developed to perform norm data cancelation before applying an existing technique of anomaly detection, the chi-square distance monitoring (CSDM), to residual data obtained after norm data cancelation for cyber attack detection. Specifically, a Markov chain model of norm data and an artificial neural network (ANN) of norm data cancelation are developed and tested. This set of techniques is compared with using CSDM alone for cyber attack detection. The results show a significant improvement of detection performance by CSDM with norm data cancelation over CSDM alone. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Access to surgical upper extremity care for people with tetraplegia: an international perspective.

Survey. To determine whether upper extremity reconstruction in patients with tetraplegia is underutilized internationally and, if so, what are the barriers to care. International—attendees of a meeting in Paris, France. One hundred and seventy attendees at the Tetrahand meeting in Paris in 2010 were sent a 13-question survey to determine the access and utilization of upper limb reconstruction in tetraplegic patients in their practice. Respondents ranged the globe including North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Fifty-nine percent of respondents had been practicing for more than 10 years. Sixty-four percent of respondents felt that at least 25% of people with tetraplegia would be candidates for surgery. Yet the majority of respondents found that <15% of potential patients underwent upper extremity reconstruction. Throughout the world direct patient referral was the main avenue of surgeons meeting patients with peer networking a distant second. Designated as the top three barriers to this care were lack of knowledge of surgical options by patients, lack of desire for surgery and poor referral patterns to appropriate upper extremity surgeons. The results of this survey, of a worldwide audience, indicate that many of the same barriers to care exist regardless of the patient’s address. This was a preliminary opinion survey and thus the results are subjective. However, these results provide a roadmap to improving access to care by improving patient education and interdisciplinary physician communication.
Importance sampling for markov chains: asymptotics for the variance

In this paper, we apply the Perron-Frobenius theory for non-negative matrices to the analysis of variance asymptotics for simulations of finite state Markov chains to which importance sampling is applied. The results show that we can typically expect the variance to grow (at least) exponentially rapidly in the length of the time horizon simulated. The exponential rate constant is determined by the Perron-Frobenius eigenvalue of a certain matrix. Applications to cumulative costs, terminal costs, steady-state costs, and the likelihood ratio gradient estimator are presented. In addition, the implications for general discrete-event simulations are presented
Modelling the firing tables of field artillery (cannon 105 mm howitzer)

Abstract In some areas the procedure for firing heavy field artillery requires the look-up of sets of firing tables. This paper proposes to model the firing tables by a family of functions which can be utilized by microcomputers. In so doing, the manual calculation of firing procedure will be substituted by a computerized one which has the advantages of speed and accuracy. Besides, utilizing this proposed model in microcomputers is more advantageous than storing the whole firing tables in the computer memory since the latter method requires large memory size that may impede the mobility and flexibility of the firing control system.
"Medical clearance" of psychiatric patients without medical complaints in the Emergency Department.

This study was conducted to evaluate the benefit of comprehensive "medical clearance" (history, physical examination, vital signs, laboratory, radiography) in patients presenting to the Emergency Department (ED) with isolated psychiatric complaints. All patients 16 years and older who presented with a psychiatric complaint and required a psychiatric evaluation before discharge from the ED were included in the study. Data, obtained in a 5-month consecutive, retrospective chart review, included patient age, sex, initial complaint, past medical and psychiatric history, initial vital sign measurement, physical examination findings, laboratory analysis (electrolytes, complete blood count, toxicology screen), chest X-ray study results, and final disposition. The number of patients who could have been referred to a psychiatric unit after a history, physical examination, and stable vital signs, without additional laboratory or radiographic studies, was determined. There were 212 patients who met the inclusion criteria, and all their charts were available for review. Eighty patients (38%) presented with isolated psychiatric complaints coupled with a documented past psychiatric history. All received a comprehensive "medical clearance" in the ED followed by a psychiatric consultation. None of the patients had positive screening laboratory or radiographic results. All were either dispositioned home or to the psychiatric ED. The remaining 132 patients (62%) presented to the ED with medically based chief complaints or past medical history requiring further evaluation in the ED before discharge. The initial complaints of these patients correlated directly with the need for laboratory and radiographic "medical clearance" in the ED. Patients with a primary psychiatric complaint coupled with a documented past psychiatric history, negative physical findings, and stable vital signs who deny current medical problems may be referred to psychiatric services without the use of ancillary testing in the ED.
Cercosporin from Cercospora hayii

Abstract The red pigment, cercosporin (C 29 H 26 O 10 ) has been isolated from cultures of a banana pathogen Cercospora hayii . Spectroscopic and chromatographic investigations suggest the structure is 1,12-(2-hydroxypropyl)-2,11-dimethoxy-4,9-dihydroxy-6, 7-methylenedioxyperylene-3,10-quinone. The structure of two related compounds are proposed. Nitrogen sources influencing pigment formation have been determined for C. hayii and C. kikuchii .
Chemistry of carcinogenic and mutagenic metabolites of heterocyclic aromatic amines

Ester derivatives of the hydroxylamine metabolic oxidation products of heterocyclic amines (HCAs) are the ultimate mutagenic and carcinogenic compounds derived from this ubiquitous class of chemical carcinogens that are produced during the cooking of protein-containing foods. Considerable work has been done on the mechanism of formation of the HCAs during cooking processes, their detection at ppb levels in food products, the metabolism of the HCAs and the detection and characterization of DNA adducts of the HCA metabolites, but until recently very little work had been done to characterize the chemistry of the carcinogenic/mutagenic metabolites themselves. This paper reviews our recent work on the chemistry of model carcinogens from this class. The kinetics of their decomposition in aqueous solution, identification of reaction products and the characterization of the reactivity and selectivity of heterocyclic nitrenium ions generated during their reactions are presented. The implications of these results with respect to mutagenicity and carcinogenicity are discussed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A wireless biomedical handheld instrument for evidence-based detection of pressure ulcers

Pressure Ulcer (PU) incidence leads to considerable risk, in particular for the frail elderly, and a large national healthcare treatment cost. Evidence-based methods for assuring the health and safety of patients are urgently needed. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated that sub-epidermal moisture (SEM) present in tissue may be measured by interrogation of tissue dielectric properties and are associated with the presence of erythema and development of early stage PU conditions. A novel wireless handheld device has been developed and will be demonstrated that introduces a series of advances including automated measurement, automated measurement method assurance including application of proper measurement applied pressure, and wireless energy recharge capability. This advances previous successful prototype development to now include a complete point-of-care usage product. This device, termed the SEM Scanner, was successfully verified in trials with 30 subjects and is currently deployed in large clinical trials in nursing homes in Los Angeles. This manuscript and the planned demonstration describe a set of significant technology advances over previous technology based on both new Wireless Health hardware and software system solutions. In addition to the demonstration to be provided of a novel end-to-end system including data acquisition, data archiving, reporting, and compliance verification, data from trials will also be presented.
Kinetic Definition of Protein Folding Transition State Ensembles and Reaction Coordinates

Using distributed molecular dynamics simulations we located four distinct folding transitions for a 39-residue ββαβ protein fold. To characterize the nature of each room temperature transition, we calculated the probability of transmission for 500 points along each free energy barrier. We introduced a method for determining transition states by employing the transmission probability, Ptrans, and determined which conformations were transition state ensemble members (Ptrans ≈ 0.5). The transmission probability may be used to characterize the barrier in several ways. For example, we ran simulations at 82°C, determined the change in Ptrans with temperature for all 2,000 conformations, and quantified Hammond behavior directly using Ptrans correlation. Additionally, we propose that diffusion along Ptrans may provide the configurational diffusion rate at the top of the barrier. Specifically, given a transition state conformation x0 with estimated Ptrans = 0.5, we selected a large set of subsequent conformations from independent trajectories, each exactly a small time δt after x0 (250 ps). Calculating Ptrans for the new trial conformations, we generated the P(Ptrans|δt = 250 ps) distribution that reflected diffusion. This approach provides a novel perspective on the diffusive nature of a protein folding transition and provides a framework for a quantitative study of activated relaxation kinetics.
The DARPA HUMS program: revolutionizing magnetic field sensors using multiferroic materials and atomic gas vapor cells

The Heterostructural Uncooled Magnetic Sensors (HUMS) program sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA/DSO) is focused on developing magnetic field sensors that operate at room temperature with an ultra-sensitivity to enable applications such as through-wall imaging, perimeter fences, tagging/tracking, and other man-portable operations. Four teams of researchers are participating in the program, with Virginia Tech and University of Maryland leading multiferroic heterostructural materials development and Princeton University and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) leading atomic vapor cell development. Leveraging the strengths of these two technologies, each team has made advancements towards the program goal of ground-breaking sensitivity, reduced noise, and portability while operating under room temperature conditions. This paper summarizes the program's achievements so far and highlights the accomplishments made by each team.
The structure of ion beam sputtered amorphous alumina films and effects of Zn doping: High-resolution 27 Al NMR

Abstract Amorphous aluminum oxide thin films have widespread technological applications, potentially including multilayer optical coatings in large-scale instruments such as the Laser Interferometric Gravitational Wave Observatory (LIGO). However, the short-range structures of such materials, especially when other components are added, are poorly known. Here we present high-field, high resolution 27 Al MAS NMR data on thin film samples of Zn-doped amorphous alumina deposited by ion beam sputtering (IBS). Samples with about 1% and 10–20% Zn both contain mixtures of four-, five-, and six-coordinated Al. The former is dominated by the lower coordinations and is remarkably similar to that recently reported for pure amorphous alumina formed by very different methods of deposition. A common, initially high-energy, “liquid-like” state may be suggested. In contrast, the structure of an X-ray amorphous high Zn alumina film contains mostly six-coordinated Al, with short range order resembling that of crystalline α-Al 2 O 3 and/or ZnAl 2 O 4 spinel. Here, the role of the dopant cation may be to speed up dynamics of local structural relaxation toward that of the equilibrium crystals.
Impacts of pine species, stump removal, cultivation, and fertilization on soil properties half a century after planting

To better understand the long-term effects of species selection and forest management practices on soil quality and soil C retention, we analyzed soil samples from an experimental planting of loblolly (Pinus taeda L.), longleaf (Pinus palustris Mill.), and slash (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) pines under different management intensities in Mississippi. The treat- ments included stump removal and cultivation (CULT), a one-time application of fertilizer combined with stump removal and cultivation (CULT+F), and a control (CON). After 49 years, pine species had no significant effect on any soil physical or chemical parameter examined, despite species differences in basal area. CULT exhibited significantly higher soil bulk density and lower soil C and soil N than CON and CULT+F in the upper 10 cm of soil. Stump removal is not a common practice in southern pine silviculture today; however, as demand for bioenergy fuels or feedstocks increases, more complete biomass utilization will be considered. Residual stumps play an important role in soil nutrient and C retention in pine plan- tations. Our results show that stump removal can lead to reduced soil C (-21%) and soil N (-35%) compared with controls, although it is possible to mitigate nutrient losses on poor sites with fertilization. Resume : Dans le but de mieux comprendre les effets a long terme du choix des especes et des pratiques d'amenagement forestier sur la qualite du sol et la retention du C, nous avons analyse des echantillons de sol provenant de plantations expe- rimentales de pin a encens (Pinus taeda L.), de pin des marais (Pinus palustris Mill.) et de pin d'Elliott (Pinus elliottii En- gelm.) soumises a differentes intensites d'amenagement au Mississippi. Les traitements incluaient l'enlevement des souches et des pratiques culturales (CULT), une application unique de fertilisant combinee a l'enlevement des souches et a des prati- ques culturales (CULT+F) et un traitement temoin (CON). Apres 49 ans, les especes de pin n'avaient pas d'effet significatif sur aucun des parametres physiques ou chimiques du sol qui ont ete etudies malgre les differences de surface terriere entre les especes. Dans les premiers 10 cm de sol, la densite apparente du sol etait plus grande et la teneur en C et N du sol etait plus faible dans le traitement CULT que dans les traitements CON et CULT+F. L'enlevement des souches n'est pas une pratique courante de la sylviculture actuelle des pins du sud. Cependant, a mesure que la demande pour la biodiversite et les matieres premieres augmente, une utilisation plus complete de la biomasse sera envisagee. Les souches residuelles jouent un role important dans la retention de C et des nutriments dans le sol des plantations de pin. Nos resultats montrent que l'enlevement des souches peut entrainer une diminution de C (-21 %) et de N (-35 %) dans le sol comparativement au traite- ment temoin bien qu'il soit possible d'attenuer les pertes de nutriments dans les stations pauvres par la fertilisation. (Traduit par la Redaction)
Comparison of mobile and manual data collection for roadway components

The primary objective of this research effort was to compare roadside data collected by typical manual methods - on foot and often requiring traffic control - to data collected by manned data collection vehicles moving with traffic. The research team provided an unbiased comparison of multiple vendors collecting many types of data on various roadway elements including curb, guardrail, signs, pavement markings, and roadway geometry. These data are frequently collected and used by many units within a highway agency such as roadway maintenance, safety, and operations. The research team provided a catalog to each vendor prior to running a 144.8 km (90-mile) test course. The catalog provided a map of the course, a list of each roadway element to be collected, and specific details on how each data element was collected manually. The test course included a variety of highways across a portion of central North Carolina. Multiple data collection companies were given the opportunity to participate, with six actually agreeing to partake and submit data. No vendors supplied sign retroreflectivity data, one submitted pavement marking retroreflectivity data, three submitted roadway geometry data, and five submitted data on roadside elements. The results showed that mobile data compared reasonably well to manual data for most of the desired variables. Mobile data on elements in close proximity to the edge of pavement matched manual data better than elements further from the road. Counts of specific elements were a better fit between mobile and manual data than elements that needed qualitative judgments. Among the major lessons learned is the need for crystal clear specifications before embarking on a mobile data collection program and the desirability of having vendors submit data for a small sample of roadway before embarking on the bulk of a data collection effort.
Safety Assessment of Cre Recombinase

Cre recombinase, when used as a tool in agricultural biotechnology, can precisely excise DNA sequences that may be useful in the introduction of a new trait but are not needed in the commercial product. Although the cre genetic material would not be present in the final product, the present studies were performed to assess the safety of Cre recombinase to provide confirmatory evidence of the safe use of Cre-lox technology in agricultural biotechnology. Cre recombinase shares no relevant sequence similarity to known allergens or toxins. When Cre recombinase was exposed to a pH 1.2 solution of simulated gastric fluid lacking pepsin, CD spectroscopy showed that there was a loss of secondary structure and that the protein was no longer active in a functional assay. Cre recombinase was degraded rapidly when exposed to pepsin in a standardized gastric digestion model; therefore, Cre recombinase would not survive the harsh gastric environment. When orally administered to mice as an acute dosage of 53 mg/kg of body weight, no treatment-related adverse findings were observed. These data support the conclusion that human and animal dietary exposure to Cre recombinase pose no known safety concerns; consistent with the fact that bacteriophage P1, the source of the cre gene and expressed protein, is commonly encountered in the environment and in normal enteric bacteria without reports of adverse consequences.