cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Predictive Runtime Monitoring for Linear Stochastic Systems and Applications to Geofence Enforcement for UAVs

We propose a predictive runtime monitoring approach for linear systems with stochastic disturbances. The goal of the monitor is to decide if there exists a possible sequence of control inputs over a given time horizon to ensure that a safety property is maintained with a sufficiently high probability. We derive an efficient algorithm for performing the predictive monitoring in real time, specifically for linear time invariant (LTI) systems driven by stochastic disturbances. The algorithm implicitly defines a control envelope set such that if the current control input to the system lies in this set, there exists a future strategy over a time horizon consisting of the next N steps to guarantee the safety property of interest. As a result, the proposed monitor is oblivious of the actual controller, and therefore, applicable even in the presence of complex control systems including highly adaptive controllers. Furthermore, we apply our proposed approach to monitor whether a UAV will respect a “geofence” defined by a geographical region over which the vehicle may operate. To achieve this, we construct a data-driven linear model of the UAVs dynamics, while carefully modeling the uncertainties due to wind, GPS errors and modeling errors as time-varying disturbances. Using realistic data obtained from flight tests, we demonstrate the advantages and drawbacks of the predictive monitoring approach.
Ethical decision-making interrupted: Can cognitive tools improve decision-making following an interruption?

This study examined the effects of interruptions and the use of cognitive decision-making tools on ethical decision-making. Participants completed a structured cognitive tool, an unstructured decis...
Determination of Hydroxyl Radical Production from Sulfide Oxidation Relevant to Sulfidic Porewaters

Hydroxyl radical (·OH) production from the reaction between aqueous total sulfide ([H2S]T = [H2S] + [HS–] + [S2–]) and dissolved oxygen is potentially an environmentally important reaction when ano...
Advancing the Law of Vessel Interference by Non-State Actors

Greenpeace members who in 2018 boarded the M/T Stolt Tenacity in the Gulf of Cadiz and the M/V Mermaid Searcher in the Port of Taranaki, New Zealand, continued a pattern of conduct in the maritime environment that implicates navigational freedoms, human rights, and security. Vessel interference by nonstate actors—activities that could jeopardize safety and violate the law—represent an urgent challenge to transnational security as well as high seas freedoms. The ability to express contrary views lawfully is largely protected by national laws as well as multinational human rights instruments. However, synchronized attacks on vessels, the ramming of ships, and noncompliant boardings are illegal activities. Despite striking differences between peaceful expressions and vessel interference, an uneven judicial methodology exists with respect to the latter. A patchwork approach has resulted from a predominant focus by some jurists on the propriety of maritime law enforcement responses, along with misguided considerations, rather than primarily on whether the protest activity was lawful, undermined freedom of movement or prejudiced the legitimate economic interests of others. This article advocates for the use of ten judicial considerations when examining vessel interference to better position courts to take a holistic judicial approach to victim impact, commerce, security, and navigational freedoms.
Pharmacokinetics, biologic activity, and tolerability of alefacept by intravenous and intramuscular administration.

Alefacept, human LFA-3/IgG1 fusion protein, is currently under clinical development for the treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis and other T cell mediated disorders. This recombinant protein binds CD2 on T cells and Fcγ RIII on accessory cells (e.g., natural killer cells, macrophages), inhibiting T cell activation/proliferation and inducing selective T cell apoptosis. These effects are associated with selective reductions in memory-effector (CD4+CD45RO+; and CD8+CD45RO+) T cells. Two open-label studies were conducted in healthy male volunteers to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, biologic activity, and tolerability of a single dose of alefacept when administered as a 0.15 mg/kg 30-sec i.v. bolus (n=12), 0.04 mg/kg intramuscular (i.m.) injection (n=8), or 0.04 mg/kg 30-min intravenous (i.v.) infusion (n=8). I.V. infusion pro- duced a higher Cmax(0.96±0.26 mcg/ml vs. 0.36±0.19 mcg/ml) and a shorter Tmax(2.8±1.9 hr vs. 86±60 hr) when compared to i.m. injection. Based on AUC0-last and AUC0-∞ values, the relative bioavailability of i.m. to i.v. infusion was approximately 60%. After absorption from the i.m. injection was complete, the rate of alefacept elimination from the serum appeared consistent with the i.v. infusion half-life (approximately 12 days). Biologic activity was demonstrated by transient reductions in absolute number of CD2+ lymphocytes, with notable specificity for memory T-cell subsets. Alefacept was well tolerated; the most common adverse effects were headache, pharyngitis, rash, and myalgia. IM administration was not associated with significant local reactions. Results of these studies support i.v. bolus or i.m. administration of alefacept. An i.m. dose of approximately 150 to 200% of the i.v. dose is an appropriate and convenient alternative to i.v. administration.
Structural definition of polyspecific compensatory ligand recognition by P-glycoprotein

The multidrug transporter P-glycoprotein (Pgp)/ABCB1/MDR1 plays an important role in multidrug resistance (MDR) and detoxification owing to its ability to efflux an unusually large and chemically diverse set of substrates. Previous phenylalanine-to-alanine scanning mutagenesis of Pgp revealed that nearly all mutations retained full MDR function and still permitted substrate transport. This suggests that either the loss of any single aromatic side chain did not affect the ligand-binding modes or that highly adaptive and compensatory drug recognition is an intrinsic property including ligand-binding shifts that preserve function. To explore this hypothesis, the ATPase function and crystallographic localization of five single-site mutations in which the native aromatic residue directly interacted with the environmental pollutant BDE-100, as shown in previous crystal structures, were tested. Two mutants, Y303A and Y306A, showed strong BDE-100 occupancy at the original site (site 1), but also revealed a novel site 2 located on the opposing pseudo-symmetric half of the drug-binding pocket (DBP). Surprisingly, the F724A mutant structure had no detectable binding in site 1 but exhibited a novel site shifted 11 A from site 1. ATPase studies revealed shifts in ATPase kinetics for the five mutants, but otherwise indicated a catalytically active transporter that was inhibited by BDE-100, similar to wild-type Pgp. These results emphasize a high degree of compensatory drug recognition in Pgp that is made possible by aromatic amino-acid side chains concentrated in the DBP. Compensatory recognition forms the underpinning of polyspecific drug transport, but also highlights the challenges associated with the design of therapeutics that evade efflux altogether.
Systematic Review: Effects of Pterygium and Pingueculum on the Ocular Surface and Efficacy of Surgical Excision.

Purpose This systematic review examines the specific effects of pingueculum and pterygium on the ocular surface and evaluates the efficacy of surgical excision in reversing those effects. Methods A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for the Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses statement and included 59 articles studying the effects of pterygium and pingueculum on the ocular surface as measured by tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer testing, tear osmolarity, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), and the effects of surgical removal on these ocular surface parameters. Results In most studies, eyes with pterygium or pingueculum when compared with control eyes had a statistically significantly lower TBUT (average 3.72 s), lower Schirmer I without anesthesia (average 3.01 mm), lower Schirmer II (average 4.10 mm), higher tear osmolarity (average 12.33 mOsm/L), and higher OSDI (average 6.82 points). Moreover, excision of pterygium and pingueculum led to a statistically significantly higher TBUT (average 3.15 s higher at 1 mo postexcision), lower tear osmolarity (average 3.10 mOsm/L lower at 3 mo postexcision), and lower OSDI score (average 2.86 points lower 1 mo postexcision) in most of the studies. The effect of excision on Schirmer test scores was equivocal because most studies did not reach significance. Conclusions Our data confirm the relationship between pterygium and pingueculum and abnormal tear function and symptoms of dry eye disease. Furthermore, the data suggest that tear film parameters might improve after surgical removal of pterygium or pingueculum. Future studies would be helpful in exploring the potential role of pterygium and pingueculum excision in the management of dry eye disease.
Identifying A Sustainable Tourism Development Model for The Amungme Tribe Community at Mimika Regency Papua Province

Amungme Tribe, residing in Mimika Regency, has important roles in developing the Papua Province’s tourism sector. Up to now, this tribe has experienced various obstacles in developing its community and region. Authors conducted a qualitative-based method research to find strategies to elevate this tribe to have competitive advantages to increase its prosperity. In this research, surveys and in-depth interviews with relevant stakeholders were conducted in Timika City to generate effective strategies. Authors have designed a comprehensive approach, namely Amungme-Based Sustainable Tourism (ABST), which focuses on the development of 4Rs: Revitalization, Reconstruction, Remuneration, and Reconciliation. Through effective and efficient applications of 4Rs, it is expected that there will be great changes for Amungme Tribe and the community of Mimika Regency.
Nicotinamide for Keratinocyte Carcinoma Chemoprevention: A Nationwide Survey of Mohs Surgeons.

Background Nicotinamide has been shown to reduce keratinocyte carcinoma (KC) in high-risk patients in a randomized controlled trial setting. Data on nicotinamide's use for KC prevention are limited. Objective To characterize nicotinamide prescribing patterns among Mohs surgeons. Methods and materials We surveyed 1,500 members of the American College of Mohs Surgeons regarding their demographics, use of nicotinamide, and safety perceptions. We performed multiple logistic regression analysis to evaluate correlations between physician characteristics and nicotinamide prescribing habits. Results 76.9% of survey respondents recommend nicotinamide for KC prevention. Twenty percent of respondents have recommended nicotinamide to more than 100 patients in the past year. Forty-five percent of respondents report a duration of use of 2 years or more in their patients. 63.8% of respondents had no concerns over nicotinamide's safety with long-term use. Individuals who answered "yes," "maybe," or "uncertain" to having safety concerns over long-term nicotinamide use and individuals in practice for more than 10 years were less likely (odds ratio [OR] 0.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.13-0.71 and OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.05, 0.82, respectively) to have recommended nicotinamide to patients for KC prevention. Conclusion Given the widespread nicotinamide use among Mohs surgeons, additional studies on nicotinamide cost-effectiveness, safety, and use patterns are needed.
Cancer cell survival in an anaerobic environment with and without elevated carbon dioxide concentrations

1377 The delivery of drugs to solid tumor has long been a difficult problem for both the clinician and researcher. Limited blood flow to the interior of the tumor coupled with elevated interstitial pressure has provided a formidable barrier. Although proven effective in certain settings, the use of anti-angiogenesis drugs as an anticancer therapy has met with limited success when used as a single agent to treat mature tumors. The current research was undertaken to better understand cell existence in the interior of solid tumors. Previous research has demonstrated that tumor cells survive in the “necrotic” interior of solid tumors induced in immunosuppressed rats by the injection of UMR-106 cancer cells. The lack of blood supply to this region suggests a lack of O2, and increased concentration of CO2, and a decreased pH. Osteogenic sarcoma cells (ATCC-UMR-106) and cells harvested from the center of a mature tumor induced in a immunosuppressed rat (by injection of UMR-106 cells) were grown in culture and exposed to increasing concentrations of CO2. Cell viability continued up to and including CO2 concentrations approaching 100% for five days. This is equal to a media pH of approximately 6.3. These results suggest that tumor cells are able to maintain viability without the presence of O2 and in the presence of extremely high CO2 levels. In a separate study these cells were maintained in a standard anaerobic bacteria chamber for a similar time period. This media has a pH of approximately 7.8. These results suggest that the cancer cells remain viable in an anaerobic environment at a high pH without CO2. Cells in the anaerobic conditions without CO2 appeared to survive better that when anaerobic conditions were produced by replacement if air with CO2. When combined, these results provide evidence that cancer cells are able to survive in an environment without O2 both with and without elevated CO2 or pH for an extended period of time. This may help explain why removal of new blood vessel growth with anti-angiogenesis compounds has not achieved the clinical results initially expected. Supported impart by the Clark Scholar Program at Texas Tech University
Tackling the unknowns in understanding and management of hospital acquired anemia.

Abstract Hospital acquired anemia (HAA) has been a recognized entity for nearly 50 years. Despite multiple hypotheses, a mechanistic understanding is lacking, and targeted interventions have not yet yielded significantly impactful results. Known risk factors include advanced age, multiple co-morbidities, low bone marrow reserve, admission to the intensive care unit, and frequent phlebotomy. However, confounding variables in many studies continues to complicate the identification of additional risk factors. Improved understanding of iron metabolism, erythropoiesis, and the erythroid iron restriction response in the last few decades, as well as the recent demonstration of poor outcomes correlating with increased transfusion have refocused attention on HAA. While retrospective database studies provide ample correlative data between 1) HAA and poor outcomes; 2) reduction of phlebotomy volume and decrease in transfusion requirement; and 3) over-transfusion and increased mortality, no causal link between reduced phlebotomy volume, decreased rates of HAA, and improved mortality or other relevant outcomes have been definitely established. Here, we review the current state of knowledge and provide a summary of potential directions to understand and mitigate HAA. There are at present no clear guidelines on whether and when to evaluate hospitalized patients for underlying causes of anemia. We thus provide a guide for clinicians in general practice toward identifying patients at the highest risk for HAA, decreasing blood loss through phlebotomy to the greatest degree feasible, and evaluating and treating reversible causes of anemia in a targeted population.
Epigenetic Effects of Prenatal Stress

Biological embedding of prenatal stress can increase the risk for maladaptive child neurodevelopmental outcomes. The search is on for more precise mechanisms implicated in this biological embedding. In recent years, researchers have focused on how epigenetic processes are implicated in the transmission of prenatal stress to the fetus. A number of specific epigenetic mechanisms have been studied to test the hypothesis that prenatal stress signals may alter epigenetic processes and, subsequently, fetal stress response systems. In this chapter, we briefly discuss the historical, theoretical, and empirical background linking epigenetic mechanisms with prenatal stress research. We describe common epigenetic mechanisms and the promises as well as difficulties inherent in examining epigenetic processes as mechanisms linking prenatal stress with child developmental outcomes in humans. As an example of our approach to examining these epigenetic processes, we review key genes that are implicated in the fetal programming of the stress response that could have downstream effects on immune system functioning and neurodevelopment. Finally, we discuss future directions for the study of epigenetic processes linking maternal prenatal stress with offspring neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Fascia Mobility, Proprioception, and Myofascial Pain

The network of fasciae is an important part of the musculoskeletal system that is often overlooked. Fascia mobility, especially along shear planes separating muscles, is critical for musculoskeletal function and may play an important, but little studied, role in proprioception. Fasciae, especially the deep epimysium and aponeuroses, have recently been recognized as highly innervated with small diameter fibers that can transmit nociceptive signals, especially in the presence of inflammation. Patients with connective tissue hyper- and hypo-mobility disorders suffer in large number from musculoskeletal pain, and many have abnormal proprioception. The relationships among fascia mobility, proprioception, and myofascial pain are largely unstudied, but a better understanding of these areas could result in improved care for many patients with musculoskeletal pain.
Facilitating Liberatory Relationships for Women of Color in Academia Through Mentorship

In this chapter we share about the history of women of color in higher education, the pervasive marginalization of their presence and perspectives, and the need for liberatory relationships. We highlight ethnographic research we conducted on relationships spanning 19 years between three multigenerational women of color to give more language to the unique, transformational, and liberatory aspects of these relationships. Through approaching mentorship with critical pedagogies, these relationships have developed into spaces of transformative learning, liberation, and as sites as resistance to the systemic power and inequities at a predominantly white institution. From this original research study, we outline the core themes and valuable attributes necessary for the success of these relationships that emerged. We present in detail the Liberatory Mentorship for Women of Color model to describe such relationships. The model is presented with reflection questions to help readers prepare for the implementation of this research-based approach to improve student experiences.
Re-Engineering the Computer Services Help Desk

The goal of this project is to re-engineer the Help Desk at USC into a cohesive group that will assist Computer Services to support the instructional mission of the University, provide the core services for the University IT infrastructure, provide excellent customer service, develop the human resources within our organization, support the operations and continual improvement of the institution, and encourage efficient use of computing and networking among departments.
A hybrid model for a single granular particle driven by a non-Gaussian viscous bath

We report the results of a novel simulation for a single particle driven by a constructed distribution of non-Gaussian fluctuations. At each time step of the simulation, a pre-assembled look-up table of non-Gaussian fluctuations is used to “kick” the mobile tracer particle in a random direction in a 2D plane. The interaction between the bath and the tracer also includes a velocity-dependent viscous term that dissipates a portion of the energy gained in each kick of the particle. This simple code is used to explore the recent experimental and numerical results that demonstrate a tendency for non-equilibrium systems to recapture Gaussian statistics for the motion of the tracer particle and has only one adjustable parameter: a velocity-independent dissipation constant.
Monte Carlo Techniques

From Washington D.C. to Wall Street to Los Alamos, statistical techniques termed collectively as Monte Carlo (MC) are powerful problem solvers. Indeed, disciplines as disparate as politics, economics, biology, and high-energy physics rely on MC tools for handling daily tasks.
Field Application of a Renewable Constructed Wetland Substrate for Phosphorus Removal1

Rosenquist, Shawn E., W. Cully Hession, Matthew J. Eick, and David H. Vaughan, 2011. Field Application of a Renewable Constructed Wetland Substrate for Phosphorus Removal. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 47(4):800-812. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-1688.2011.00557.x Abstract: Phosphorus (P) is typically the best target to prevent eutrophication in freshwater, a biological process associated with water quality degradation. Constructed wetlands (CW) and other practices that include P removal by sorption processes in substrates can provide economical treatment of stormwater, but have limitations (e.g., large land requirements, loss of removal over time, lack of P recovery). Over the last three years, a multi-study research program addressed these limitations with a new P management concept. This concept minimizes CW size with a rejuvenation cycle (or rejuvenation) that renews P-sorption capacity in the CW substrates and enables P recovery for productive use. This study, conducted in Blacksburg, Virginia (July-September 2009), tested the efficacy of rejuvenation in the field. Methods included replicate cells of two sand substrates monitored for P removal during prerejuvenation and postrejuvenation filtration runs. One substrate contained cast iron filings as a repository for sorption capacity. Results support the following conclusions: (1) P removal is likely dependent on multiple factors including influent P concentration, previous substrate/solution equilibrium, pH, and time; (2) rejuvenation is capable of releasing P adsorbed during stormwater filtration; (3) inclusion of cast iron in substrate promotes additional P removal and enables further removal after rejuvenation; but (4) inclusion of cast iron may limit release of P during rejuvenation.
Symposium: behavior modification by drugs. 3. The clinical use of stimulant drugs in children.

Having reviewed what is known, what is only surmised, and what is not known about the psychopharmacology of stimulant drug use in children, the clinician must decide for which patient to use what drug for how long. Medical practice does not permit the physician the luxury of deferring decisions until knowledge is certain. His task is to weigh putative benefits against putative risks in a strategy designed to maximize the probability of improvement for a particular patient. The risks that concern the pediatrician are not only those visible in the short run during drug administration but include effects on development, effects which may not become apparent for some time after treatment has been discontinued. In the case of stimulant drugs, public controversy has centered on behavioral rather than pharmacological toxicity, both short and long run. In the short run, are the drugs being used indiscriminately to stifle independence and creativity among exceptional children? Over the long run, does childhood drug use predispose to adolescent drug addiction? Before attempting to answer these questions, let us first consider the medical indications for the use of stimulants and the mode of their administration. The clinical syndromes which respond to stimulants are characterized by motor restlessness, short attention span, poor impulse control, learning difficulties, and emotional lability. Current American Psychiatric Association diagnostic nomenclature1 includes the term: "hyperkinetic reaction of childhood" to describe this set of symptoms; the World Health Organization2 is proposing: "hyperkinetic syndrome." Both terms have the virtue of stressing the symptom constellation and of by-passing the uncertainties surrounding cause.
Target Systems Overview for the Spallation Neutron Source

The purpose and requirements of target systems as well as the technologies that are being utilized to design and build a state-of-the-art neutron spallation source, the Spallation Neutron Source, are discussed. Emphasis is given to the technology issues that present the greatest scientific challenges. The present facility configuration, ongoing analysis, and planned hardware research and development program are also described.
Obligations of the New Occupier: The Contours of a Jus Post Bellum

Jus post bellum derives its name from two existing bodies of law: jus ad bellum and jus in bello, which are applicable, respectively, to the initiation of war and to conduct in war. In this article I assess whether the law of occupation is a workable point of departure for a jus post bellum. I then comment on what theory of peace informs jus post bellum, and I conclude with some suggestions on the scope and content of a jus post bellum, emphasizing the role of human rights, multilateralism, and economic reconstruction. In particular, I argue that jus post bellum should be based on the emerging norms of accountability, stewardship, good economic governance, and proportionality. Jus post bellum triggers principles in play in periods after armed conflict, moving away from war (ab bello) towards justice (ad jusitiam) and peace (ad pacem). Jus post bellum expands the traditional binary rules of international law into a tripartite system, which will bring the law into closer conformity with the challenges presented by the peace-making, peacebuilding, and post-conflict practices of today.
A new controller for three-phase boost rectifiers lacking balance in source voltages and impedances

Using the natural reference frame current regulator strategy, a new high performance controller for a three-phase boost rectifier, which is effective for when the source voltages are balanced or unbalanced with or without equal line impedance is presented in this paper. The controller can achieve regulated dc output voltage with either of the following objectives: Unity or controllable input power factor, constant peak and balanced source current, specified or constant input instantaneous active power. All the control variables in the system are AC signals instead of the DC signals needed in the traditional synchronous reference frame based control methods, eliminating the synchronous reference transformations of the variables, and the hardware (phase lock loop) or software required for voltage phase angle measurement. With the aid of the digital signal processor (DSP), the proposed control algorithm has been experimentally implemented and with computer simulation results, the validity of the technique has been established
Fetuses and Violins

Book reviewed in this article: Greation and Abortion: A Study in Moral and Legal Philosophy. By Frances M. Kamm.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are mesenchymal tumors characterized by a spindle morphology and expression of the c-kit proto-oncogene. They occur primarily in the stomach and small intestine presenting with abdominal pain or bleeding, but may be found incidentally. These tumors may behave malignantly by metastasizing, invading adjacent organs, or recurring after resection. Tumor size more than 5 cm or more than 5 mitoses per high-power field (HPF) are most useful inpredicting subsequent malignant behavior. Endoscopy generally reveals a submucosal tumor that may have a central umbilication or ulcer. Endoscopic forceps biopsies are usually nondiagnostic. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) reveals a hypoechoic mass generally arising from the fourth endosonographic layer (muscularis propria). EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) with staining of the specimen for the c-kit protein (CD-117) and CD-34 can establish the diagnosis. The treatment of choice is complete surgical resection for all tumors that have malignant features. Controversy surrounds whether small benign-appearing GISTs require resection. Patients with unresectable, metastatic and/or recurrent GISTs may be treated with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib mesylate with 80% of patients either responding or having stable disease.
Un)Intended Discoveries

Abstract Computer numeric controlled fabrication machinery is changing the way we design and build. These technologies have increased productivity through greater efficiency and have helped to create new forms of practice, including increased specializations and broader collaborative approaches.1 Some argue, however, that these technologies can have a dehumanizing effect, stripping the human touch away from the production of objects and redistributing the associated skills to machines.2 The (Digital) Craft studio explored notions of technology and craft to understand how designers can begin to reintroduce the hand into the mechanized process of computer numeric controlled fabrication.
GLOBAL PATTERNS OF LEAF DEFENSES IN OAK SPECIES

Plant defensive traits drive patterns of herbivory and herbivore diversity among plant species. Over the past 30 years, several prominent hypotheses have predicted the association of plant defenses with particular abiotic environments or geographic regions. We used a strongly supported phylogeny of oaks to test whether defensive traits of 56 oak species are associated with particular components of their climatic niche. Climate predicted both the chemical leaf defenses and the physical leaf defenses of oaks, whether analyzed separately or in combination. Oak leaf defenses were higher at lower latitudes, and this latitudinal gradient could be explained entirely by climate. Using phylogenetic regression methods, we found that plant defenses tended to be greater in oak species that occur in regions with low temperature seasonality, mild winters, and low minimum precipitation, and that plant defenses may track the abiotic environment slowly over macroevolutionary time. The pattern of association we observed between oak leaf traits and abiotic environments was consistent with a combination of a seasonality gradient, which may relate to different herbivore pressures, and the resource availability hypothesis, which posits that herbivores exert greater selection on plants in resource-limited abiotic environments.
Petroleum hydrocarbons and their effects in subtidal regions after major oil spills

Abstract The question often arises after large oil spills as to the extent and effect of oil entering the subtidal zones adjacent to heavily oiled shorelines. Estimates for a number of large spills suggest that 1 to 13% of the spilled oil can enter subtidal regions. Hydrocarbon concentrations in these subtidal zones are generally orders of magnitude lower than shoreline sediments. For example, in the Exxon Valdez oil spill, subtidal sediment hydrocarbon concentrations attributable to the spill were very low in the first year after the spill and barely detectable in the second year. The conditions necessary to produce high concentrations of hydrocarbons in the subtidal region include large amounts of oil in a semienclosed estuary or bay and high concentrations of fine particulate matter to associate with hydrocarbons to allow them to disperse and sink. Such conditions do not often occur after spills, with some exceptions, such as low energy tidal estuaries in the Amoco Cadiz spill in Brittany, France. More commonly sea floor sediment hydrocarbon concentrations, where sediment-associated hydrocarbons have settled, are generally near to background levels, due to dilution and weathering. A number of methods have been used to evaluate the biological effects of oil spills on subtidal fauna. These include toxicity to amphipods, increases in the concentrations of fluorescent aromatic metabolites in the bile of fish, histopathology of fish, increases in opportunistic species and infaunal succession. Sediments collected from the subtidal zone below heavily oiled shorelines of the Exxon Valdez spill showed low toxicity using standard amphipod bioassays. Well documented effects on the subtidal biota adjacent to heavily oiled shorelines are the increases in the number of hydrocarbon degrading microbes which are fed on by opportunistic species of meiofauna which in turn are food for macrofauna. The documented biological effects of oil in the subtidal region are generally of short duration and recovery back to an equilibrium or ‘normal’ condition is typically quite rapid.
The SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling subunit BRG1 is a critical regulator of p53 necessary for proliferation of malignant cells

The tumor suppressor p53 preserves genome integrity by inducing transcription of genes controlling growth arrest or apoptosis. Transcriptional activation involves nucleosomal perturbation by chromatin remodeling enzymes. Mammalian SWI/SNF remodeling complexes incorporate either the Brahma-related gene 1 (BRG1) or Brahma (Brm) as the ATPase subunit. The observation that tumor cell lines harboring wild-type p53 specifically maintain expression of BRG1 and that BRG1 complexes with p53 prompted us to examine the role of BRG1 in regulation of p53. Remarkably, RNAi depletion of BRG1, but not Brm, led to the activation of endogenous wild-type p53 and cell senescence. We found a proline-rich region unique to BRG1 was required for binding to the histone acetyl transferase protein, CBP, as well as to p53. Ectopic expression of a proline-rich region deletion mutant BRG1 that is defective for CBP binding inhibited p53 destabilization. Importantly, RNAi knockdown of BRG1 and CBP reduced p53 poly-ubiquitination in vivo. In support of p53 inactivation by the combined activities of BRG1 and CBP, we show that DNA damage signals promoted disassociation of BRG1 from CBP, thereby allowing p53 accumulation. Our data demonstrate a novel function of the evolutionarily conserved chromatin remodeling subunit BRG1, which cooperates with CBP to constrain p53 activity and permit cancer cell proliferation.
Foreword: Special issue on Alan Turing

In a little known 1948 National Physical Laboratory (NPL) report entitled ‘‘Intelligent Machinery’’ [3], which wasn’t published until 1968 [1], 14 years after his death, Alan Turing described both connectionist ideas and genetical search. In his analogy between learning and search, he suggested that intellectual, genetical, and cultural searches may all be used to inspire mechanisms by which to achieve machine intelligence.
Neonatal fibrous dysplasia.

Summary The first known case of neonatal fibrous dysplasia is reported. The differentiation from congenital pseudarthrosis and simple bone cyst is discussed. Discovery of a case of neonatal fibrous dysplasia supports the theory that fibrous dysplasia represents a congenital disorder of development of the skeleton.
Hyper-lie poisson structures

Abstract The main purpose of the paper is to study hyperkahler structures from the viewpoint of symplectic geometry. We introduce a notion of hypersymplectic structures which encompasses that of hyperkahler structures. Motivated by the work of Kronheimer on (co)adjoint orbits of semi-simple Lie algebras [10], [11], we define hyper-Lie Poisson structures associated with a compact semi-simple Lie algebra and give criterion which implies their existence. We study an explicit example of a hyper-Lie Poisson structure, in which the moduli spaces of solutions to Nahm's equations assocaited to Lie algebra su(2) are realized as hypersymplectic leaves and are related to the (co)adjoint orbits of sl(2,).
A New Microchemical Reaction for Cellulose

A microchemical test for cellulose applicable to fresh sections and commercial products is described. The test differs from the older technics in that materials tested are not permanently altered.Two solutions are required: (1) 2% solution of iodine in 5% KI, diluted with 9 parts by volume of water containing 0.28% glycerin; (2) saturated aqueous LiCl.Procedure: Apply 2 or 3 drops of solution 1 with a glass rod; allow the preparation to stand for 30 sec; blot with filter paper, drying as completely as possible. Apply one drop of solution 2, cover and examine. The color reaction will be obtained within 5 min. The reaction for pure cellulose is light blue. Reactions for 16 fibers are given in the table.As a stain for demonstrating plant tissues the technic has been used in the Botany Department of Pomona College with much success; but this phase of the subject has not been extensively investigated.
Beyond breaking bad news: the roles of hope and hopefulness.

BACKGROUND. Hope is important to patients, yet physicians are sometimes unsure how to promote hope in the face of life-threatening illness. ANALYSIS. Hope in medicine is of two kinds: specific (hope for specific outcomes) and generalized (a nonspecific sense of hopefulness). At the time of diagnosis of a life-ending condition, the specific goal of a long life is dashed, and there may be no medically plausible specific outcome that the patient feels is worth wishing for. Yet the physician may nonetheless maintain an open-ended hopefulness that is compatible with the physician's obligation to be truthful; this hopefulness can help sustain patient and family through the turbulent period of adaptation to the unwelcome reality of major illness. As this adaptation evolves, the physician can help patients and families adapt to suffering and loss of control by selecting and achieving specific goals such as improvement of the patient's environment in hospital or hospice, pain control, and relief of sleeplessness. Thus hope for specific (but far more modest) future events can again become a positive part of the patient s emotional landscape. The authors do not propose that physicians remain upbeat no matter the circumstance, for they must respect the constraints of reality and the patients' mortality. However, physicians can provide both cognitive and affective support as patients learn how to adapt. Hope and hopefulness are both important in this process. SUMMARY. Hope is always important to patients. Physicians can and should promote hopefulness without endorsing unrealistic hope. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Microscopic studies on the dispersion of iron/molybdenum bimetallic catalysts in hydrotreated Blind Canyon, Wyodak and Pittsburgh #8 coals☆

Abstract The dispersion and reactivity of an iron/molybdenum coal liquefaction catalyst was investigated in three Argonne coals. Blind Canyon, Wyodak and Pittsburgh # 8 coal samples were impregnated with a 1 wt% Fe and 1 wt% Mo liquefaction catalyst using both ultrasonic and incipient wetness techniques. The yields of THF solubles in demineralized Blind Canyon coal indicate no significant advantage in the use of ultrasound as the impregnation technique. Results of electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) show that the catalyst is coated on the surface of impregnated, demineralized coal particles prior to hydropyrolysis at 350°C and 2000 psig H2. EPMA micrographs obtained after hydropyrolysis indicate that the catalyst has entered the interior of demineralized coal particles. Mobility of iron and molybdenum evidently occurs during hydropyrolysis and possibly is facilitated by the liquid phase present in the demineralized coal and the amount of porosity. Corresponding EPMA data obtained from impregnated undemineralized coal samples are ambiguous.
Life-history characteristics of eleotrid fishes of the western hemisphere, and perils of life in a vanishing environment

The term amphidromous was coined (Myers in Copeia 1949:89–97, 1949b) to describe diadromous life histories that include migrations, not associated with reproduction, that are between fresh and marine waters. This concept has facilitated evaluations of life cycles among a number of groups of fishes including some belonging to the family Eleotridae. Information was gathered on life history patterns of eleotrid fish species that have been recorded from both fresh and brackish or marine waters of the east and west coasts of North, Middle, and South America, including adjacent islands, seeking evidence of diadromy and especially of amphidromy. Convincing evidence was found of diadromy in the life cycles of four species from the east coast (with another two species possibly in this category), and of three species from the west coast of the Americas and adjacent islands. However, there was convincing evidence of amphidromy in only one species from the east coast and adjacent islands, with another three species or species populations possibly in this category, and in three species from the west coast and adjacent islands. It seems possible from the available information that there may be variation among populations in life cycles of some of these species. However, it remains for the use of modern techniques to allow more definitive determinations of life history patterns of these eleotrid species populations. Serious concern exists with respect to the conservation of all diadromous species because of the worldwide emphasis on river manipulations, especially of dam construction. Resident diadromous organisms are being impeded in their migrations, and thus imperiled in their potential for survival, depending on the nature of river alterations and the abilities of the organisms to cope with them.
An Investigation of Abusive Supervision, Vicarious Abusive Supervision, and Their Joint Impacts

ABSTRACT Recent work has begun to look at the impact of abusive supervision, a dysfunctional workplace behavior, on employee outcomes. This study extends this line of research by examining vicarious abusive supervision (abuse not directly experienced, but rumors about it or hearing about it, that is “experienced vicariously”). In particular, this research effort investigates whether vicarious abuse has effects above and beyond those accounted for by personally experienced abusive supervision on the outcomes of job frustration, coworker abuse, and perceived organizational support. Our sample is composed of 233 workers from a large variety of organizations. Results reveal that both personally experienced and vicarious abuse have negative impacts and these effects are heightened when both forms of abusive supervision are present. Practical and theoretical implications, as well as directions for future research, are offered.
Electricity generation by direct oxidation of glucose in mediatorless microbial fuel cells

Abundant energy, stored primarily in the form of carbohydrates, can be found in waste biomass from agricultural, municipal and industrial sources as well as in dedicated energy crops, such as corn and other grains. Potential strategies for deriving useful forms of energy from carbohydrates include production of ethanol and conversion to hydrogen, but these approaches face technical and economic hurdles. An alternative strategy is direct conversion of sugars to electrical power. Existing transition metal-catalyzed fuel cells cannot be used to generate electric power from carbohydrates. Alternatively, biofuel cells in which whole cells or isolated redox enzymes catalyze the oxidation of the sugar have been developed, but their applicability has been limited by several factors, including (i) the need to add electron-shuttling compounds that mediate electron transfer from the cell to the anode, (ii) incomplete oxidation of the sugars and (iii) lack of long-term stability of the fuel cells. Here we report on a novel microorganism, Rhodoferax ferrireducens, that can oxidize glucose to CO(2) and quantitatively transfer electrons to graphite electrodes without the need for an electron-shuttling mediator. Growth is supported by energy derived from the electron transfer process itself and results in stable, long-term power production.
A link between the ionization energy ratios of an atom and its electronegativity and hardness

Abstract We explain the earlier observation that Taylor series expansions of atomic energies essentially terminate after the second-order term if the atoms’ ionization energies obey I n = n ( I 1 ). Our analysis provides some support for the validity of the widely-used electronegativity and hardness formulas 0.5( I + A ) and 0.5( I − A ), for the atoms in Groups IIA and IVA – VIIIA, oxygen being an exception.
Three-Dimensional Morphology of Systems Engineering

A study of the structure and form of systems engineering using the technique of morphological analysis is presented. The result is a model of the field of systems engineering that may be rich in applications. Three uses given for illustration are in taxonomy, discovery of new sets of activities, and systems science curriculum design.
Cultural Expectations and Reproductive Desires: Experiences of South African Women Living With HIV/AIDS (WLHA)

We explored factors influencing sexual and reproductive (SR) decisions related to childbearing for women living with HIV/AIDS (WLHA) in South Africa. We conducted four focus group interviews with 35 women living with HIV/AIDS. Our results show that the SR health care needs of women were not being addressed by many health care workers (HCWs). Additionally, we found that health care decisions were influenced by partners and cultural expectations of motherhood. Given the importance of motherhood, it is necessary for HCWs to address the diverse sexual needs and reproductive desires of WLHA.
Pressor and depressor sites are intermingled in the cingulate cortex of the rat.

Abstract Electrical stimulation of area infraradiata in the rat evokes transient changes in arterial pressure, but the locations that evoke these responses have not been mapped by neurochemical methods. To localize more specifically the regions of area infraradiata that modify cardiovascular activity, the present study measured cardiovascular responses to localized chemical stimulation of neurons in area infraradiata of urethane-anesthetized rats ( n =21). Microinjections (50–200 nl) of the glutamate agonist d , l -homocysteic acid into area infraradiata evoked both increases and decreases in arterial pressure and heart rate. Injections in the ventral subdivisions of rostral area infraradiata (IRaα and IRbα) produced cardiovascular responses with the highest probability and greatest magnitude. Of 53 injections in this area, 18 decreased arterial pressure and heart rate, whereas 4 increased arterial pressure and heart rate. In contrast to the results from the ventral subdivision of rostral infraradiata cortex, injections of d , l -homocysteic acid in the dorsal subdivision of rostral infraradiata cortex (IRcα) or any of the caudal subdivisions of area infraradiata (IRβ) produced less consistent changes in arterial pressure. To demonstrate that the general anesthesia did not significantly alter the evoked responses in this study, similar injections of d , l -homocysteic acid were made into area infraradiata of unrestrained, conscious rats ( n =10) and the responses were similar to the responses evoked in urethane-anesthetized rats. These results indicate that the ventral subdivisions of rostral area infraradiata (IRaα and IRbα) are more involved in cardiovascular regulation than other areas of infraradiata cortex (IRcα and IRβ), and that both pressor and depressor sites are present in both areas. © 1997 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.