cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rigorous bounding of position error estimates for aircraft surface movement

NextGen will require new navigation and surveillance capabilities to support safe and efficient surface operations based on tightly-coordinated 4D trajectories. In developing these new technologies, such as Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) and the Ground Based Augmentation System (GBAS), it is essential to remember that all sensing technologies are prone to rare but potentially hazardous errors. Accordingly, the development of new navigation and surveillance technologies must be complemented by the development of rigorous integrity algorithms that allow pilots and controllers to determine when a sensor system should or should not be trusted. This paper describes the application of a new state-prediction methodology to developing conservative position-error bounds for aircraft ground movement. These position-error bounds can be compared to operational limits in order to generate an alert if the risk of a large navigation error becomes unacceptably high. To demonstrate the conservatism of our approach, we have conducted a series of experiments in a lab setting using a surrogate (robotic) vehicle. These experiments indicate that our method, which we call biased-Gaussian prediction, generates a conservative position-error bound even when more conventional prediction methods do not.
Ketamine and Midazolam Anesthesia in Pacific Martens (Martes caurina)

Abstract The use of midazolam as a tranquilizer for anesthesia in mustelids in conjunction with the cyclohexamine ketamine is not well documented. Because midazolam is fast acting, inexpensive, and quickly metabolized, it may serve as a good alternative to other more commonly used tranquilizers. We trapped and anesthetized 27 Pacific martens (Martes caurina) in Lassen National Forest (northern California, US) August 2010–April 2013. We assessed anesthesia with ketamine at 18 and 25 mg/kg combined with 0.2 mg/kg of midazolam by comparing mean times of induction, return to consciousness, and recovery, plus physiologic parameters. No reversal was used for the midazolam portion of the anesthetic. Mean (±SD) induction for both ketamine dosages was 1.7±0.5 and 1.8±1.0 min, respectively. Return to consciousness mean times were 8.0 min longer (P<0.001) for martens receiving a 25 mg/kg ketamine dosage. Mean recoveries were 15.1 min longer (P<0.003) for the 25 mg/kg ketamine dosage. Physiologic parameter means were...
Denervation supersensitivity to glutamate in the nucleus tractus solitarii after removal of the nodose ganglion.

Ifl-glutamate (l-Glu) is the transmitter released from cardiovascular vagal afferent nerve fibers in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS), then interruption of those afferents should lead to denervation supersensitivity tol-Glu in the NTS. Therefore, we sought to determine if dose-related changes in arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR) elicited byl-Glu microinjected into the NTS evolve after removal of the left nodose ganglion in rats. Twelve rats served as unoperated controls; and eight were studied 5 days, eleven 10 days, and nine 15 days after ganglionectomy. Each rat was anesthetized with halothane (1.5–2.0%) and cannulated for recording AP and HR. After exposure of the brainstem, vehicle orl-Glu (3, 30, 75, 150, 300 and 1500 pmol/50 nl) was microinjected alternately into the right and left dorsomedial NTS. In control animals, and in animals 5 days and 15 days after ganglionectomy, the lowest dose ofl-Glu that produced a significant fall of mean AP (−10±2, −5±2, −6±1 mmHg, respectively) was 30 pmoles. The threshold dose with injections on the lesioned side 10 days after ganglionectomy was 3 pmol (−8±2 mmHg). In rats studied at 10 days, but not in control, 5 or 15 day rats, the dose-responses for injections made on the left were shifted significantly to the left of those made on the right (P < 0.05). In control, 5, and 15 day rats there were no significant differences between dose-related responses elicited from right and left NTS. Responses of HR did not differ between groups of animals or sides of injection. These results suggest that supersensitivity tol-Glu evolves after nodose ganglionectomy and further support a role forl-Glu as a transmitter of cardiovascular afferents in the NTS.
Ultrahigh vacuum surface analysis of silicon (100) treated in aqueous hydrofluoric acid and buffered hydrofluoric acid solutions

Abstract X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, static secondary ion mass spectroscopy, and thermal desorption spectroscopy were used to study the surface chemistry of Si(100) after wet chemical treatments in dilute HF (1 vol%; pH 3) and buffered HF (15 vol% NH4OH, 22 vol% HF, 63 vol% H2O; pH 4). This study was performed in a combined ultrahigh vacuum-electrochemical chamber (UHV-EC) in which sample transfer occured under ultrapure conditions. After wet chemical treatments the Si(100) surface had both SiF and SiH species present, and upon rinsing, SiF was hydrolyzed to SiOH resulting in a lower concentration of SiF. Treatment in buffered HF produces SiF4 as an etching product. Evidence for this comes from detection of adsorbed SiF-5 following treatment and transfer to UHV. The ultraclean transfer method used in this study greatly reduces the amount of adsorbed hydrocarbons compared to previous studies involving sample transfer through laboratory air, and thereby allows a more thorough UHV analysis of the surface chemistry of wet etching.
Naloxone antagonism of diazepam-induced feeding in the Syrian hamster.

Abstract Three experiments investigated the effects of the intragastric administration of the benzodiazepine diazepam on feeding in non-deprived Syrian hamsters ( mesocricetus auratus ). In the first experiment diazepam (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mg/kg) produced dose dependant increases in feeding. 4.0 mg/kg of diazepam produced significantly more feeding than the other doses tested and the lowest dose tested (0.5 mg/kg) produced a significant increase in feeding. In the second experiment naloxone (10 mg/kg) partially antagonized the effect of 4 mg/kg of diazepam on feeding. In the third experiment the ability of naloxone (0.1, 1.0, 5.0, 10.0 or 20 mg/kg) to reduce feeding produced by either 4 mg/kg or 2 mg/kg of diazepam was tested. Naloxone partially antagonized the effects of 4 mg/kg of diazepam on feeding in a dose dependant manner. While 2 mg/kg of diazepam produced significantly less feeding than 4 mg/kg, naloxone did not antagonize the effect of 2 mg/kg on feeding. The results suggest that two mechanisms are involved in diazepam-induced feeding in hamsters. The high dose of diazepam may produce increased feeding by activating the endorphin system while the low dose of diazepam produces increased feeding via a naloxone insensitive mechanism.
The Burden of Fibromyalgia: Assessment of Health Status Using the EuroQol (EQ-5D) in Patients with Fibromyalgia Relative to Other Chronic Conditions

Abstract Objective To compare the health status of fibromyalgia patients assessed by EuroQol (EQ-5D) with healthy controls and patients with chronic conditions, and to identify modifiable clinical factors associated with the EQ-5D. Study Design EQ-5D scores were calculated using US preference weights for patients with fibromyalgia from a published patient survey. Scores were compared with healthy controls and individuals with chronic conditions (cancer, diabetes, asthma, headache, hypertension, myocardial infarction, coronary atherosclerosis, congestive heart failure, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and spondylopathies) from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Demographic and clinical factors associated with the EQ-5D were identified using regression analyses. Results Adjusted for age and sex, the mean (±SD) EQ-5D score was 0.56 ± 0.18 among fibromyalgia patients; significantly lower, that is, worse ( P P P Conclusions EQ-5D scores in fibromyalgia patients were significantly lower than healthy controls and individuals with other chronic conditions. Self-reported symptom severity was significantly associated with the EQ-5D. A substantial health burden for fibromyalgia has been highlighted and results suggest that effective symptom management is necessary to improve the health status of fibromyalgia patients.
Effect of exhaust nozzle geometry on combustor flow field and combustion characteristics

Abstract A combustion system of multiple swirlers coupled with distributed fuel injection is studied as a new concept for reducing NOx emission of gas turbine engines. The present paper investigates the significant effect of the downstream nozzle contraction ratio on the combustor flow field, flame structure, temperature distribution, and emission characteristics. A small contraction ratio yields a typical bubble-shaped recirculation zone where the flame is stabilized by vortex breakdown. The larger contraction ratio transforms the recirculation zone into a conical “V”-shaped configuration with the stagnation point of the vortex breakdown moving upstream and the flow recovering to a downstream flow direction following this point. The recirculation zone area is reduced, forming strong swirl, higher strain rate, and turbulent fluctuation in the recovery flow region around the centerline. The downstream contraction effects are due to the fact that the flow remains subcritical after the transition from super- to subcritical state through the vortex breakdown. The flow field is not influenced by the downstream boundary conditions if the flow recovers to supercritical state following vortex breakdown. The effects of the downstream exhaust nozzle on the combustion structure, temperature distribution, and emissions were shown to be closely related to changes in the central recirculation zone: higher contraction ratio forms higher NOx and lower CO emissions due to the elevated temperature field and increased reaction rate. For gaseous fuel with higher inlet air temperature, the flame structure and NOx emissions were less sensitive to the exhaust nozzle contraction ratio, indicating that the combustion flow recovered to the supercritical state downstream of the vortex breakdown region before the exit region due to a more homogeneous temperature field.
Cocaine-induced cardiotoxicity in vitro.

A growing number of reports have related cocaine use with the onset of myocardial infarction in young otherwise healthy individuals. Although the cardiac effects of cocaine have traditionally been attributed to sympathomimetic stimulation, several studies have suggested that cocaine may be directly cardiotoxic. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cardiotoxic effects of cocaine in an in vitro preparation devoid of sympathetic innervation. Primary cultures of rat cardiac muscle and non-muscle cells were prepared from hearts excised from 3–5-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats. Cultures were exposed to various cocaine concentrations (1 × 10−7−1 × 10−3m) for 1–24 hr. Beating activity, morphological status and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage were evaluated following cocaine exposure. A decrease in the beating activity of cultured muscle cells was observed 1 hr after exposure to the highest cocaine concentrations (1 × 10−5−1 × 10−3m) tested. Similar results were obtained 24 hr after exposure. Morphological alterations in muscle cells were evident only after exposure to the highest concentration (1 × 10−3m). Vacuoles appeared 1 hr after cocaine exposure and were replaced by dark granules within 24 hr. LDH release was significantly elevated in the muscle cell cultures exposed to 1 × 10−3m cocaine for 24 hr. The pattern of cocaine-induced morphological alterations and enzyme leakage was similar in non-muscle cells. These data suggest that cocaine induces direct toxic effects on both cardiac muscle and non-muscle cells maintained in an environment free of neuronal and hormonal influences.
Pictures of Debauchery: Profane Images of the Prodigal Son's Revels in Seventeenth-Century Dutch Paintings

AbstractDuring the Reformation, the story of the biblical Prodigal Son in the Book of Luke (Luke 15: 11–32), with its moralizing message of redemption, became the most depicted parable in both art and literature. The revels of the profligate youth, an episode barely mentioned in the Bible, became popular in Netherlandish paintings and graphic art of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. This article considers Dutch paintings of the biblical Prodigal Son's revels from the first half of the seventeenth century, after which time the theme falls from favour. In these pictures, the episode of the profligate youth's debauchery with whores is an unexpectedly prominent constituent of the iconography; the images had become unashamedly erotic, with only slightly monitory overtones. Hedonism overwhelms biblical references as the emphasis shifts from biblical literalism and didactic concerns to humour and entertainment. Many pictures possess few of the original iconographic elements that had previously signalled t...
Penile Denudation After Adult Circumcision

Penile denudation is a devastating injury jeopardizing genital function and cosmetic appearance. Trauma, infection and burns are the most common etiologies but loss of penile skin may be a significant complication of circumcision. When performed by a nonprofessional, circumcision can be tragic. We describe a scrotal flap procedure for repairing extensive penile skin denudation after circumcision, resulting in excellent function and cosmesis. Conventional methods for repair of penile skin loss using skin grafts are also discussed.
Is green tea good for HIV-1 infection?

HIV-1 infection ultimately results in impaired specific immune function by virtue of the initial binding of the HIV-1 virion envelope glycoprotein 120 (gp120) to the CD4 receptor in complex with a chemokine receptor on the T-cell surface.1 Even though gp120 elicits virus-neutralizing antibodies, HIV-1 eludes the immune system and leads to the onset of AIDS. Ever since the discovery of the virus as the causative agent, there has been an intense effort to develop therapeutic methods to inhibit or prevent infection.2-4 Among the immune-based strategies designed to prevent the fateful initial binding event between HIV-1 virion and target cell are chemokine analogs, chemokine receptor inhibitors, anti–HIV-1 monoclonal antibodies, fusion proteins, and vaccines.5 As reported by Kawai et al6 in this issue, a unique candidate in the fight against AIDS has recently been investigated: green tea, one of the world’s most frequently consumed beverages. Green tea has been reported to provide a cornucopia of beneficial health activities, such as the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular disease.7,8 There are specific components of green tea that have been shown to have antimicrobial activity.9 Recently, investigators have found that the antiviral effects can be targeted at HIV-1 infection.6,10-12 Although the multiplicity of purported health benefit effects of green tea stretches the length of credibility, the molecular evidence of anti-HIV effects put forth by Kawai et al6 warrants further scrutiny.
Bias-Induced Photoluminescence Quenching of Single Colloidal Quantum Dots Embedded in Organic Semiconductors

We demonstrate reversible quenching of the photoluminescence from single CdSe/ZnS colloidal quantum dots embedded in thin films of the molecular organic semiconductor N,N‘-diphenyl-N,N‘-bis(3-methylphenyl)-(1,1‘-biphenyl)-4,4‘-diamine (TPD) in a layered device structure. Our analysis, based on current and charge carrier density, points toward field ionization as the dominant photoluminescence quenching mechanism. Blinking traces from individual quantum dots reveal that the photoluminescence amplitude decreases continuously as a function of increasing forward bias even at the single quantum dot level. In addition, we show that quantum dot photoluminescence is quenched by aluminum tris(8-hydroxyquinoline) (Alq3) in chloroform solutions as well as in thin solid films of Alq3 whereas TPD has little effect. This highlights the importance of chemical compatibility between semiconductor nanocrystals and surrounding organic semiconductors. Our study helps elucidate elementary interactions between quantum dots and...
Effects of coal-bed methane discharge waters on the vegetation and soil ecosystem in Powder River Basin, Wyoming

Coal-bed methane (CBM) co-produced discharge waters in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming, resulting from extraction of methane from coal seams, have become a priority for chemical, hydrological and biological research during the last few years. Soil and vegetation samples were taken from affected and reference sites (upland elevations and wetted gully) in Juniper Draw to investigate the effects of CBM discharge waters on soil physical and chemical properties and on native and introduced vegetation density and diversity. Results indicate an increase of salinity and sodicity within local soil ecosystems at sites directly exposed to CBM discharge waters. Elevated concentrations of sodium in the soil are correlated with consistent exposure to CBM waters. Clay-loam soils in the study area have a much larger specific surface area than the sandy soils and facilitate a greater sodium adsorption. However, there was no significant relation between increasing water sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) values and increasing sediment SAR values downstream; however, soils exposed to the CBM water ranged from the moderate to severe SAR hazard index. Native vegetation species density was highest at the reference (upland and gully) and CBM affected upland sites. The affected gully had the greatest percent composition of introduced vegetation species. Salt-tolerant species had the greatest richness at the affected gully, implying a potential threat of invasion and competition to established native vegetation. These findings suggest that CBM waters could affect agricultural production operations and long-term water quality.
Fumarole emissions at Mount St. Helens volcano, June 1980 to October 1981: Degassing of a magma-hydrothermal system

Abstract This study is an investigation of the chemical changes in the Mount St. Helens fumarole gases up to October 1981, the sources of the fumarole gases, and the stability of gas species in the shallow magma system. These problems are investigated by calculations of element compositions, thermodynamic equilibria, and magmatic volatile—hydrothermal steam mixing models. The fumarole gases are treated as mixtures of magmatic volatiles and hydrothermal steam formed by magma degassing and boiling of local waters in a dryout zone near conduit and dome magma. The magmatic volatile fraction is significant in fumaroles with temperatures in excess of the magma cracking-temperature (∼ 700°C) — i.e., the temperature below which cracking is induced by thermal stresses during cooling and solidification. Linear composition changes of the fumarole gases over time appear to be the result of a steady decline in the magmatic volatile mixing fraction, which may be due to the tapping of progressively volatile-depleted magma. The maximum proportion of hydrothermal steam in the fumaroles rose from about 25–35% in September 1980 to around 50–70% by October 1981. Fractional degassing of magmatic CO2 and sulfur also contributed to the chemical changes in the fumarole gases. The steady chemical changes indicate that replenishment of the magma system with undegassed magma was not significant between September 1980 and September 1981. Extrapolations of chemical trends suggest that fumarole gases emitted at the time of formation of the first dome in mid-June 1980 were more enriched in a magmatic volatile fraction and contained a minimum of 9% CO2. Calculations show H2S is the predominant sulfur species in Mount St. Helens magma below depths of 200 m. Rapid release of gases from magma below this depth is a plausible mechanism for producing the high H2S/SO2 observed in Mount St. Helens plumes during explosive eruptions. This study suggests that dacite-andesite volcanos may emit gases richer in CO2 during the earlier episodes of an eruptive cycle and burden the atmosphere with much more H2S than SO2 during explosive eruptions.
The differential diagnosis of catatonic states.

Abstract Catatonic states do not always signify schizophrenia. Catalepsy, mutism, stereotypy, muscular rigidity, and other signs of catatonia may reflect drug overdose, an acute delirium, or the subacute stage of viral encephalitis. The misdiagnosis of an underlying medical condition as a psychiatric disorder can have fatal results. A mental status examination, a thorough neurologic evaluation, and appropriate laboratory and cerebrospinal fluid tests may be necessary to identify the cause of the catatonic condition.
Protective effect of oxidized glutathione in acute sulfide poisoning.

Abstract Pretreatment of mice with oxidized glutathione (GSSG) protects them against a subsequent lethal challenge with sodium sulfide. This protective effect is additive to that imparted by methemoglobin as previously reported. The conclusion is reached that the protective actions of oxidized glutathione and of methemoglobin are similar, namely, a trapping of free sulfide thereby preventing it from reaching vital enzymatic sites. Evidence is presented to show that the mechanism of this reaction is based on a scission of the disulfide bridge of glutathione by the hydrosulfide anion. Oxygen, however, is required for the ultimate irreversible detoxication of sulfide. In contrast to the slow disulfide-bond cleavage by cyanide, the reaction of sulfide with some disulfide bridges is rapid enough to be of biological importance. Attempts to alter blood GSH:GSSG ratios in mice without producing methemoglobin were unsuccessful; however, the possibility remains that the reaction of sulfide with oxidized glutathione or other endogenous disulfide bridges constitutes an important natural detoxication process.
ENSURING THE FAIRNESS OF GRE WRITING PROMPTS: ASSESSING DIFFERENTIAL DIFFICULTY

Three polytomous DIF detection techniques — the Mantel test, logistic regression, and polySTAND — were used to identify GRE® Analytical Writing prompts (“Issue” and “Argument”) that are differentially difficult for (a) female test takers; (b) African American, Asian, and Hispanic test takers; and (c) test takers whose strongest language skills are in a language other than English. Prompts in the gender comparison showed low differential item functioning (DIF) values. Higher DIF values were found in the White versus African American comparison (for Argument prompts), while a smaller number of prompts showed moderate DIF to the disadvantage of the Hispanic (for Argument prompts), Asian American (for Issue prompts), and English as a second language groups (for Issue prompts). No DIF values were found that were large enough to warrant the removal of prompts from the item pool. Several potential causes of high DIF values for some prompts are discussed with respect to the content characteristics of these prompts.
Detection of v̄ e — e Scattering

The reaction νe + e- → νe + e- has been observed using a 15.9 kg plastic scintillation target in a composite plastic-Nal-liquid detector exposed to a νe flux of 2.2 × 1013 cm-2s-1 from an 1800 MW fission reactor. Tests rule out a reactor-associated signal produced by inverse β-decay, neutrons, or gamma rays. The measured cross section is consistent with both, the old V — A theory and the Weinberg-Salam model with a mixing parameter sin2 θ w = 0.29 ± 0.05.
Orbitofrontal Cortex Assigns Credit Wisely

Damage in the orbitofrontal cortex impairs the ability to switch behaviors when their outcomes change, but the cause of these deficits remained unknown. In this issue of Neuron , Walton et al. demonstrate a key role of the primate orbitofrontal cortex in disambiguating the relationship between multiple choices and their outcomes.
Grand initial value problem of high gain free electron lasers

Abstract Initial value problem is one of the cornerstones in the framework of high gain free electron laser (FEL) theory. It determines the startup of FEL interaction from initial signal or noise in either laser field or electron beam. Yet, this problem was solved only for the cases without emittance and betatron oscillations. In this paper, we present the first solution to the initial value problem in a grand scale by expanding the startup theory into the six-dimensional phase space. In particular, with Gaussian beam distribution, explicit calculations of mode coupling from input field and noise power for self-amplified spontaneous emission (SASE) are presented. One of the major results is the discovery of excessively large noise power for SASE.
Domestic adjustment to international shocks in Japan and the United States

Economic interdependence complicates domestic policymaking by interposing the decisions of foreigners in the loop that links policy instrument settings to economic outcomes. Nowhere was this vulnerability to external decisions demonstrated more forcefully—even for the world's major economies—than by the energy supply shocks of 1973 and 1979. The oil shocks posed challenges that offer unusual insight into the way nations choose policies: their severity forced a policy response; their unpredictable timing and (at least in 1973) unprecedented nature ruled out conventional formulas and brought to the fore explicit policy trade-offs. This article seeks to explain how policymakers in the world's two major economies responded to these external shocks. The analysis successively employs three vantage points—system, society, and state—in tracing the sources of domestic adjustment policies. It focuses specifically on the extent to which policies accommodated or extinguished each shock's inflationary impulses and on the coherence and consistency with which the executive in each government formulated and pursued particular policy goals. A comparison of these four cases illustrates the strengths and weaknesses of increasingly detailed theoretical frameworks for explaining policy choice. Although the research does not contradict the depiction of the United States and Japan in terms of state strength, it does underscore the importance of looking beyond formal institutional arrangements to consider how elite policy preferences, ambitions, and capacities can define the way constraints influence policy.
Symplastic entry and phloem translocation of phosphonate.

Abstract Symplastic entry and phloem transport of phosphonate, the active metabolite of the systemic fungicide fosetyl-Al, was evaluated in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) leaf discs and in castor bean plants (Ricinus communis L. var. Gibsonii). Entry of phosphonate into leaf discs was linear for concentration and time; accumulation occurred after 24 hr when discs were floated on solutions ranging from 0.03 to 4 mM. Uptake was sensitive to metabolic inhibitors, but not to external phosphate concentration. It was affected by external pH, with maximum uptake occurring at pH 5. With the exception of efflux from the free space, negligible efflux of phosphonate from leaf discs occurred, indicating that phosphonate does not readily diffuse across the plasmalemma. The translocation profile of phosphonate in castor bean plants was similar to [14C]sucrose and was detected in phloem exudate 30 min after application. Entry of both sucrose and phosphonate into the phloem was reduced or eliminated in the presence of 2,4-dinitrophenol, indicating involvement of an active uptake process. Using a hydroponic growth system, phosphonate could be detected in root exudates of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mil.) and Persea indica L. which had been treated with potassium phosphonate.
Terrorism as a Desperate Game Fear, Bargaining, and Communication in the Terrorist Event

This article examines terrorism both theoretically and empirically. A typology is presented to identify different types of terrorist events and characteristics particular to each. Following this, the negotiations involved in hostage situations are examined with emphasis on government / terrorist response options and event outcomes. Throughout the article, assumptions of the theoretical model are empirically tested utilizing the ITERATE data set. Decision routes are mapped as a method for conceptualizing the tactics involved in bargaining communications. Formal game theory is utilized to explore the complexities involved in modeling government/terrorist interaction regarding: (a) developing an extensive game form; (b) specifying utilities; and (c) constructing illustrative games. Probability functions for an empirically-based decision model are generated by an examination of government/ terrorist responses and outcomes for the cases in the data set. Discriminant function analysis is employed to specify qua...
Validation of continuous thermodilution cardiac output in patients implanted with a left ventricular assist device.

Objective: To assess the accuracy of a continuous cardiac output (CCO) monitor against an independent, intravascular measurement of flow as can be performed in patients fitted with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Design: A prospective cohort study. Setting: Academic tertiary-care center. Participants: Adult patients (n = 15) presenting for LVAD placement. Interventions: Consenting patients presenting for LVAD placement for end-stage cardiac failure were anesthetized, and a CCO pulmonary artery catheter was placed (OptiQ, CCO/SvO2; Abbott Critical Care, North Chicago, IL). Patients were monitored with transesophageal echocardiography and excluded from analysis if aortic regurgitation was found. Cardiac output was determined using a Q-Vue, CCO/SvO2 computer with digital readout (Abbott Critical Care, North Chicago, IL). The LVAD was placed in standard fashion during cardiopulmonary bypass. The Thoratec vented electric Heartmate (Thoratec Co, Pleasanton, CA) incorporates an LVAD flow console, which computes LVAD flow within ± 5% (range, 1.8 to 10 L/min). Measurements and Main Results: Cardiac output flow measurements were made from both systems at the following time points: 5 minutes and 30 minutes after protamine administration, at chest closure, and after skin closure. Mean cardiac output for each device did not differ at any time point. Regression analysis (Pearson's) showed acceptable correlation (r2 = 0.79, p < 0.0001), whereas a bias of 529 mL with limits of agreement of 1,208 mL were shown for CCO measurement compared with LVAD flow. Conclusion: The data indicate that the CCO system tends to overestimate cardiac output by approximately 500 mL/min when compared with LVAD flow. Nevertheless, this bias is within the range found by other less-invasive studies done to assess the accuracy of this system and further serves to confirm its relative accuracy. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
A Device for Measuring the Radii of Raindrops

Abstract The sizes of raindrops with radii between 0.025 and 0.2 cm can be measured by amplifying the voltage pulses they make when they hit a high voltage wire. I have made such a device using two wires charged to +2000 V and a differential amplifier. Unwanted radio noise affects each wire in nearly the same way and is thus greatly reduced at the output of the differential amplifier. The device is simple and easy to build, and it works well except in the vicinity of thunderstorm electrical activity.
Recurrence of lupus nephritis after renal transplantation: if we look for it, will we find it?

Recurrence of lupus nephritis after kidney transplantation is often regarded as rare, and transplantation of patients with end-stage renal disease secondary to this condition is common. Several studies, however, have reported a higher incidence of recurrence of lupusnephritis after renal transplantation than the 1–4% which is usually quoted. Weng and Goral discuss reasons for the variation in reported incidence of recurrent lupus nephritis and consider the potential clinical impact of recurrence.
Quantitative Imaging of Glutathione in Live Cells Using a Reversible Reaction-Based Ratiometric Fluorescent Probe

Glutathione (GSH) plays an important role in maintaining redox homeostasis inside cells. Currently, there are no methods available to quantitatively assess the GSH concentration in live cells. Live cell fluorescence imaging revolutionized the field of cell biology and has become an indispensable tool in current biological studies. In order to minimize the disturbance to the biological system in live cell imaging, the probe concentration needs to be significantly lower than the analyte concentration. Because of this, any irreversible reaction-based GSH probe can only provide qualitative results within a short reaction time and will exhibit maximum response regardless of the GSH concentration if the reaction is completed. A reversible reaction-based probe with an appropriate equilibrium constant allows measurement of an analyte at much higher concentrations and, thus, is a prerequisite for GSH quantification inside cells. In this contribution, we report the first fluorescent probe—ThiolQuant Green (TQ Green...
Beyond: collapsible input device for direct 3D manipulation beyond the screen

What would it be like to reach into a screen and manipulate or design virtual objects as in real world? We present Beyond, a collapsible input device for direct 3D manipulation. When pressed against a screen, Beyond collapses in the physical world and extends into the digital space of the screen, such that users can perceive that they are inserting the tool into the virtual space. Beyond allows users to directly interact with 3D media, avoiding separation between the users' input and the displayed 3D graphics without requiring special glasses or wearables, thereby enabling users to select, draw, and sculpt in 3D virtual space unfettered. We describe detailed interaction techniques, implementation and application scenarios focused on 3D geometric design and prototyping.
Possible connection between two Alaskan catastrophes occurring 25 yr apart (1964 and 1989)

On March 24, 1989, the Exxon Valdez supertanker grounded on Bligh Reef, spilling North Slope crude oil into Prince William Sound, Alaska. Tracking the geochemical fate of this spilled oil has revealed, in addition to weathered products from the spill, minor oil residues on beaches from a distinctly different source. By using carbon isotopic compositions of whole-oil residues as a principal method of identification, we found that the [delta][sup +13]C values of Exxon Valdez oil (one sample) and its residues (eight samples from six islands) average [minus]29.3 0.1%. In contrast, the non-Exxon Valdez residues (15 samples from 12 localities) have an average [delta][sup 13]C value of [minus]23.8 [+-]0.1%. This tight distribution of carbon isotopic values suggestes a single event to explain the non-Exxon Valdez residues. This event likely was the Great Alaska Earthquake of March 27, 1964. This quake and the subsequent tsunami destroyed asphalt storage facilities at the old Valdez town site, spilling asphalt ([delta][sup +13]C = [minus]23.6%) into Port Valdez fjord. From there the asphalt apparently advanced south into the sound. Thus, the possible connection between two Alaskan catastrophes, separated by 25 yr, is found in the minor oil-like residues that continue to mark the two events onmore » the beaches of Prince William Sound. 16 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.« less
The Elite Class Background of Wang Shuo and His Hooligan Characters

The Cultural Revolution provided a unique environment for children of the political elite to develop a new kind of hooliganism and a youth counterculture that contradicted Mao’s aim to empower them...
From Peasant Pasts to Hindutva Futures? Some Reflections on History, Politics, and Methodology

Abstract This paper considers the participation and initiation of communities once classified as criminal tribes in the violence in Gujarat in 2002. Given that their descendants continue to suffer politically and economically in post-colonial India, it is necessary to examine the role of the marginalised and subordinate communities in the making of Hindutva in the twenty-first century. Building upon debates on violence in post-colonial societies, the paper examines the historical contexts for why victims often become killers in genocide. More specifically, it provides an analysis of one specific community of poor, low-caste peasants, the Dharalas, who participated in the violence against Muslims in Gujarat. The paper also examines the limits of historical methodology for the writing of histories of violence from ‘below’.
A virtual environment for the interrogation of 3D polycrystalline microstructures including grain size effects

A finite element analysis of the large deformation of three-dimensional polycrystals is presented using pixel-based finite elements as well as finite elements conforming with grain boundaries. The macroscopic response is obtained through volume-averaging laws. A constitutive framework for elasto-viscoplastic response of single crystals is utilized along with a fully-implicit Lagrangian finite element algorithm for modeling microstructure evolution. The effect of grain size is included by considering a physically motivated measure of lattice incompatibility which provides an updated shearing resistance within grains. A domain decomposition approach is adopted for parallel computation to allow efficient large scale simulations. Conforming grids are adopted to simulate flexible and complex shapes of grains. The computed mechanical properties of polycrystals are shown to be consistent with experimental results for different grain sizes.
Efficacy of sodium thiosulfate as a local antidote to mechlorethamine skin toxicity in the mouse.

The highly vesicant nature of the alkylating anticancer agent mechlorethamine (HN2, or nitrogen mustard) requires careful i.v. technique during its administration. Skin toxicity due to HN2 extravasation is severe and typically prolonged over several months. Mouse skin toxicity studies were carried out to find a local antidote to decrease the severity of tissue damage by this agent. Intradermal (i.d.) HN2 (0.005-0.5 mg) caused dose-dependent skin ulcers in the mouse. Isotonic sodium thiosulfate Na2S2O3 (0.167 M) or hypertonic (0.34 M) Na2S2O3 (0.05 ml) given immediately after HN2 significantly reduced the mean HN2 ulceration area and the total time of ulceration. Ineffective local HN2 antidotes included hyaluronidase, hydrocortisone, and sodium chloride, all given i.d. Topical applications of DMSO, cold, and heat were also ineffective. Sodium thiosulfate is believed to chemically neutralize reactive mechlorethamine-alkylating species and thus decrease skin toxicity. Thiosulfate dosing studies showed that a molar excess of at least 200:1 (Na2S2O3:HN2) was required for significant antidotal activity. If thiosulfate treatment was delayed 4-24 h after HN2, no antidotal effects were obtained. We conclude that sodium thiosulfate can decrease the severity of local tissue damage caused by HN2. It should be considered the antidote of choice in the setting of clinical HN2 extravasations.
Homogeneous and inhomogeneous Jones matrices

The classification of polarization properties of polarization elements is studied to derive data-reduction equations for extracting the diattenuation, retardance, and other polarization properties from their Jones matrices. Polarization elements, and Jones matrices as well, are divided into two classes: homogeneous, with orthogonal eigenpolarizations, and inhomogeneous, with nonorthogonal eigenpolarizations. The basic polarization properties, diattenuation and retardance, of homogeneous polarization elements are straightforward and well known; these elements are characterized by their eigenvalues and eigenpolarizations. Polarization properties of inhomogeneous polarization elements are not so evident. By applying polar decomposition, the definitions of diattenuation and retardance are generalized to inhomogeneous polarization elements, providing an understanding of their polarization characteristics. Furthermore, an inhomogeneity parameter is introduced to describe the degree of inhomogeneity in a polarization element. These results are then adapted to degenerate polarization elements, which have only one linearly independent eigenpolarization.
Subtypes of female juvenile offenders: a cluster analysis of the Millon Adolescent Clinical Inventory

The current study sought to explore subtypes of adolescents within a sample of female juvenile offenders. Using the Millon Adolescent Clinical Inventory with 101 female juvenile offenders, a two-step cluster analysis was performed beginning with a Ward's method hierarchical cluster analysis followed by a K-Means iterative partitioning cluster analysis. The results suggest an optimal three-cluster solution, with cluster profiles leading to the following group labels: Externalizing Problems, Depressed/Interpersonally Ambivalent, and Anxious Prosocial. Analysis along the factors of age, race, offense typology and offense chronicity were conducted to further understand the nature of found clusters. Only the effect for race was significant with the Anxious Prosocial and Depressed Intepersonally Ambivalent clusters appearing disproportionately comprised of African American girls. To establish external validity, clusters were compared across scales of the Behavioral Assessment System for Children - Self Report of Personality, and corroborative distinctions between clusters were found here. Language: en
Further Evaluation of the Circular Sequential Vein Graft Technique of Coronary Artery Bypass

Our study reports a series of circular sequential vein grafts in 21 patients with highly symptomatic triple-vessel coronary artery disease. Four or more distal anastomoses were done in each patient. Thirteen of the patients were restudied, and the results revealed a 97% patency rate for distal anastomoses (58 out of 60) at 4 to 13 months after operation. One patient died 2 months after operation. Postmortem examination revealed a desmoplastic, fibrotic reaction at the proximal anastomosis of the circular graft, with 3 of 4 distal anastomoses patent. Twenty of the 21 patients in this series are now alive with asymptomatic cardiac status 14 to 22 months after operation. The finding by Grondin and associates [1] of increased patency rate with this technique for distal anastomoses is confirmed. The circular sequential vein graft represents a particularly advantageous technique for patients in whom 4 to 6 distal anastomoses are needed for complete revascularization and in whom one or more vessels have limited runoff. The obvious disadvantage of this technique is that all distal anastomoses depend on a single proximal anastomosis.
Capital asset pricing in an overlapping generations model

Abstract This paper attempts to contribute to two rapidly growing branches in economic theory: asset pricing and “overlapping generations” models. The model is formulated and it is shown that equilibrium prices exist, and some of their properties are discussed. Then the model is applied to an asymmetric information environment to see if randomness in the number of informed agents could confuse the uninformed. Surprisingly, it could not.
Meetings at Work: Advancing the Theory and Practice of Meetings

Although advances in communication technology were once expected to diminish the need for synchronous work meetings, meeting activity in organizations continues to rise. Regrettably, the time and e...
Improve the Process for Managing Change

Even though the skills needed today for managing change are as critical as those for managing performance routines, there is no generic model or game plan for managing change. The IMPROVE model for managing change attempts to remedy that situation by identifying the seven functional requisites for effective change management: increasing organizational readiness for change, management approval, preparing leaders, raising employee motivation for change, operationalizing change interventions, validating the change process, and embedding change into the organization. Methods and techniques for satisfying these functional requisites are provided. By following this overall process, the chances for successful and efficient organizational change are increased.
The Ventricular Vector and Polar Gradient

Unlike Burger's polar vector, the ventricular vector is dependent on the time course of the ventricular electrical activity. Its unit is (μv·sec)2. Unlike Wilson's ventricular gradient, the polar gradient, a purely geometrical entity, is independent of the time course. Preliminary studies indicate that these four vectors may have complementary clinical value.
The general dynamic equation for aerosols. Theory and application to aerosol formation and growth

Abstract Conservation equations for aerosol size distribution dynamics are derived and compared. A new discrete-continuous conservation equation is derived that overcomes the limitations of the purely discrete or continuous equations in simulating aerosol dynamics over a broad particle size spectrum. Several issues related to aerosol formation and growth not previously amenable to exact analysis are studied in detail using the discrete-continuous equation: (1) the establishment of a steady state concentration profile of molecular clusters in the presence of a preexisting aerosol; (2) the relative importance of nucleation, condensation, and scavenging in gas-to-particle conversion; and (3) the importance of cluster-cluster agglomeration relative to other processes. The formation and growth of a sulfuric acid/water aerosol in a smog chamber is simulated using the discrete-continuous equation, and the results are compared with recent experimental data. The above issues related to aerosol formation and growth are investigated for the simulated experiment.
The effect of temperature and host species on the development of the trichomycete Smittium culisetae (Zygomycota)

We examined the growth and development of the trichomycete Smittium culisetae (Harpellales: Legeriomycetaceae) in the larval hosts Simulium vittatum Zetterstedt (Diptera: Simuliidae) and Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) at three temperatures, 17, 22 and 30 C. Trichospore maturation of Sm. culicetae external to the host as well as the ability of these trichospores to colonize new hosts also was investigated. Although the development of Sm. culisetae varied with both temperature and host there was a pattern of maximum trichospore production at 48-72 h postinoculation. In addition thalli under laboratory conditions are capable of spore production after extraction from a host and these trichospores can colonize new hosts. Furthermore this was noted to occur in both host species. These results suggest that synchrony between host and symbiont development is not as tightly coupled as previously assumed.
Bring in the Nerds: Secrecy, National Security and the Creation of International Intellectual Property Law

The negotiations of the international Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement and Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement have been conducted largely in secret, elevating intellectual property piracy to the level of national security concerns for purposes of accessing information through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). However, the level of actual secrecy has been tiered, with corporate interests enjoying far more access to negotiation information than the general public. At the same time, similar intellectual property issues were negotiated in the relative transparency of Congress’ debate over the Stop Online Piracy Act and PROTECT IP Act, allowing for much greater public involvement. With national security concerns as the backdrop, the focus of this Article is the use of national security arguments to prevent the public, and more specifically, public experts (i.e., the “nerds”) from accessing information through FOIA about the creation of international intellectual property law. The Article proposes ways to address the information failures existing in international intellectual property lawmaking and international lawmaking more generally from policy and, as introduced in this Article, theoretical perspectives.