cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gap Analysis of Swine-Based Hemostasis Research: "Houses of Brick or Mansions of Straw?"

INTRODUCTION Hemorrhage control is the top priority in far-forward care. Preclinical studies are essential for determining safety and efficacy before novel therapeutics can be tested in humans. Unfortunately, poor methodological quality jeopardizes translational potential. METHODS We systematically reviewed 136 recent publications describing swine models of hemostasis and hemorrhage reduction to assess compliance with established standards for scientific reporting. Quality measures were summarized by descriptive statistics; randomization was assessed by using baseline group differences to test the uniform distribution assumption for observed P-values. RESULTS Most articles did not report information essential to assess study validity and reliability of experimental results. Studies claiming random allocation showed clear evidence of systematic bias. Sample sizes were small, but nearly all studies reported statistically significant effects in the direction of "benefit." Excessive hypothesis testing increased the risk of false positives. CONCLUSIONS Methodological quality was poor. Although funding agencies actively promote good scientific practice, investigators have been slow to comply. Poorly executed and reported animal research is an ethical and translational issue, wasting animals and potentially harming patients. To properly assess the therapeutic benefit of novel interventions, investigators must rely less on rote hypothesis testing, develop skills in experimental design and quantitative analysis, and comply with best-practice reporting guidelines.
General concepts of tissue spectroscopy and instrumentation

The word spectroscopy comes from the Latin-Greek hybrid, wherein spectrum is from the Latin word for “an appearance” (specter or apparition = a ghost!), and skopein is the Greek word for seeing or observing. Why does spectroscopy mean observing an appearance or a ghost? One explanation is based on the first systematic observation (among the many contributions to modern mathematics and science made by English physicist and mathematician Sir Isaac Newton [1642–1727]) of how the propagation of sunlight through a prism results in the “appearance” of a band of different colors. A second explanation may be that when one uses light to study an object, the observations are based on the effects of that object on light, so that one does not directly view the object, but one see its appearance, or a “ghost” of it. Finally, one can think of a spectral decomposition of sunlight as being filled with ghosts: the set of dark lines first observed by the English scientist William Wollaston [1766–1828] and the German physicist Joseph Fraunhofer [1787–1826], and the bands of invisible “colors” beyond the red on one side and beyond the violet on the other. The word spectrum has evolved in English to mean a range of ordered values or colors. For our purposes optical spectroscopy may be loosely defined as the study of atoms, molecules and particles by means of their wavelength-dependent interactions with light . Relevant to the methods discussed in this chapter light is broadly defined to encompass the range from the ultraviolet to mid-infrared wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum, or about 200 nm to 15 μm, which are transmitted through air with only moderate attenuation (see Figure 4.1). Over this range, the components used for optical instrumentation are most conveniently explained by appealing to the wave-like nature of light. When it comes to scattering interactions and the diffusion of light in turbid media such as tissue, however, it is often more convenient to treat light as particles, or photons , rather than waves. Scattering can be elastic , in which the photon changes direction but not energy, or inelastic , in which the photon can both exchange energy and change its direction of propagation. Scattering phenomena are often described in probabilistic terms, by specifying the likelihood of a photon being scattered and the probable angular distribution of the scattering.
CHAPTER 6 – Interfacing Hardware to a PC Bus

This chapter focuses on the connection of external hardware to an XT, AT, or PCI bus. Three types of XT/AT bus cycles are used for data transfers: memory, I/O port, and direct memory access (DMA) cycles. Memory cycles are used to access system memory and memory on expansion cards. Most data transfers to external devices use I/O port cycles or DMA cycles. Many of the I/O port addresses are reserved for particular functions. Only a few control signals are needed with the address and data buses to implement an I/O port read or write cycle on the XT bus. These control signals are lOR used for a read cycle, lOW used for a write cycle, and AEN to distinguish between an I/O port cycle and a DMA cycle. PC/XT systems support four DMA channels via an Intel 8237 DMA controller. Microsoft operating systems starting with Windows 95 fully support Plug and Play ISA. The configuration space approach is much cleaner and does not require special procedures to isolate add-in cards from each other or the bus. All expansion boards of PCI computer are automatically configured.
Chapter 24 – Lysosomal Storage Diseases

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the pathogensis, diagnosis, and therapies available for treatment of lysosomal storage diseases (LSD). The LSDs are defined as a group of individually rare genetic disorders of cellular catabolism involving the lysosome. LSDs are inherited as autosomal recessive traits (except MPS II, which is X-linked) and result from mutations in the coding sequence of one of the acid hydrolases located in the lysosome. Point mutations, deletions, insertions, and other alterations in sequence may occur anywhere along the length of the DNA coding the enzyme protein. Each individual alteration produces a unique change in the protein affecting structure, stability, and function. Thus, these genetic abnormalities result in the reduction or elimination of the catalytic activity of the particular enzyme. This, in turn, results in the accumulation of the substrate of that enzyme within the lysosome. In many LSDs, the reduction in the amount of product of the metabolic pathway does not appear to produce disease. However, the storage of cholesterol in Niemann-Pick type C disease may result in a downstream deficiency of neurosteroids. This chapter explains in detail the lysosomal biology. The chapter also discusses the pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis, and therapy for LSDs.
Does it matter who advises farmers? Pest management choices with public and private extension

Abstract Does it matter whether farmers receive advice on pest management strategies from public or from private (pesticide company affiliated) extension services? We use survey data from 733 Swiss fruit growers who are currently contending with an infestation by an invasive pest, the fruit fly Drosophila Suzukii. We find that farmers who are advised by public extension services are more likely (+9–10%) to use preventive measures (e.g. nets) while farmers who are advised by private extension services are more likely (+8–9%) to use synthetic insecticides. These results are robust to the inclusion of various covariates, ways to cluster standard errors, and inverse probability weighting. We also show that our results are unlikely to be driven by omitted variable bias. Our findings have implications for the current debates on both the ongoing privatization of agricultural extension and concerns regarding negative environmental and health externalities of pesticide use.
Perception of lipo-chitooligosaccharides by the bioenergy crop Populus

Populus sp. is a developing feedstock for second-generation biofuel production. To ensure its success as a sustainable biofuel source, it is essential to capitalize on the ability of Populus sp. to associate with beneficial plant-associated microbes (e.g., mycorrhizal fungi) and engineer Populus sp. to associate with non-native symbionts (e.g., rhizobia). Here, we review recent research into the molecular mechanisms that control ectomycorrhizal associations in Populus sp. with particular emphasis on the discovery that ectomycorrhizal fungi produce lipochitooligosaccharides capable of activating the common symbiosis pathway. We also present new evidence that lipo-chitooligosaccharides produced by both ectomycorrhizal fungi and various species of rhizobia that do not associate with Populus sp. can induce nuclear calcium spiking in the roots of Populus sp. Thus, we argue Populus sp. already possesses the molecular machinery necessary for perceiving rhizobia, and the next step in engineering symbiosis with rhizobia should be focused on inducing bacterial accommodation and nodule organogenesis. The gene Nodule INception is central to these processes, and several putative orthologs are present in Populus sp. Manipulating the promoters of these genes to match that of plants in the nitrogen-fixing clade may be sufficient to introduce nodulation in Populus sp.
Variation in metal concentrations across a large contamination gradient is reflected in stream but not linked riparian food webs

Abstract Aquatic insects link food web dynamics across freshwater-terrestrial boundaries and subsidize terrestrial consumer populations. Contaminants that accumulate in larval aquatic insects and are retained across metamorphosis can increase dietary exposure for riparian insectivores. To better understand potential exposure of terrestrial insectivores to aquatically-derived trace metals, metal concentrations in water and tissues were analyzed from different components of streams and riparian food webs across a large (2–3 orders of magnitude) metal gradient (e.g., Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb) in the Rocky Mountains (USA). Our research indicates that the trace metal concentration gradient present among streams was lost during metamorphosis of aquatic larval insects into terrestrially flying adults, decoupling terrestrial exposures from aquatic concentrations. This pattern was caused by declines in 1) among-stream variation in trace metal concentrations, 2) relationships between metal concentrations in paired water and food web components, and 3) mean metal concentrations within aquatic food webs and across the aquatic-terrestrial boundary. Specifically, among-stream variation in trace metal concentrations was highest for water and aquatic vegetation, intermediate for aquatic insect larvae (~30% lower than water) and lowest for adult aquatic insects and riparian spiders (~65% lower). Metal concentrations in paired water and food web components ranged from highly related across the stream-metal gradient (slopes ~1) for water and aquatic vegetation, to less related (slopes closer to 0) for aquatic vegetation and aquatic insect larvae, to unrelated (slopes ~0) for aquatic larval and adult insects. Finally, mean metal concentrations were highest in aquatic vegetation and lowest in adult aquatic insects emerging from streams (~50% lower than aquatic vegetation). Our results indicate less efficient trophic transfer and higher metamorphic loss of trace metals from high metal streams (i.e., exposure-dependent transfer). For many trace metals, aquatic-terrestrial dietary transfer is unlikely to be an important source of exposure for terrestrial insectivores of adult aquatic insects.
Intracellular pH (pHi) Measurement in Rat Duodenal Epithelium In Vivo Using SNARF-1

Our laboratory has previously used BCECF to measure the pHi of the duodenal epithelium [1–3]. BCECF loads into epithelial cells and fluoresces well, but since BCECF is a dual excitation-single emission compound, a ratio pair cannot be obtained simultaneously, but requires sequential acquisition of image pairs. Measurement of pHi in vivo is impaired, due to the constant motion of epithelial cells which are affected by respiratory and cardiac movement. Exact registration of image pairs is not possible and ratiometric pHi calculations must be therefore be performed manually. 5-(and 6)-Carboxyseminaphthorhodafluor-1 (SNARF-1) is a single excitation dual emission fluorescent compound. The emission ratios calculated from the two peaks of 640 and 580 nm are a sensitive indicator of pH; furthermore, image pairs at two different wavelengths can be obtained simultaneously. It is thought that this specific feature can be used for more accurate determination of pHi especially in vivo. In the present paper, we used SNARF-1 for measurement of pHi in rat duodenal epithelium in vivo.
Affecting upper extremity strength by changing maxillo-mandibular vertical dimension in deep bite subjects.

The effect of vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) on maximizing isometric deltoid strength (IDS) was measured in subjects with deep overbite. Sixteen female dental students with deep dental overb...
Granulocyte concentrate function during preservation: effect of temperature

Granulocyte concentrates collected from normal donors are necessarily stored for varying intervals up to the time of transfusion. However, information regarding the fate of collected cells and the optimal mode of storage in vitro in the interval between collection and transfusion is far from complete. We studied granulocyte function during preservation of granulocyte concentrates for up to 72 hr. The initial and most consistent alteration in granulocyte function during storage was failure of random migration and chemotaxis after 24 hr of storage (50% and 61% of normal, respectively). By 48 hr the respiratory burst was decreased by 42%, whereas at 48 hr phagocytic and bactericidal activities were nearly normal. Defects in migration and respiratory burst are not due to delayed activation of these functions but to absolute decreases in maximum rates of migration and oxygen consumption. Comparison of granulocyte concentrate storage at 6 degrees C versus room temperature indicated at 24 hr an improved (p greater than 0.02) but still abnormal (p greater than 0.02) chemotactic response with 24 degrees C storage and at 48 hr no difference in migration but a slight advantage in bacterial killing at 6 degrees C storage. These studies show that severe impairment of granulocyte function occurs within 24 hr of collection by centrifugal means; consequently, granulocyte concentrates should be transfused as soon as possible after collection.
Predicting the visual world: silence is golden

In predictive coding, only unexpected input features are signaled to the next stage of processing. Rao and Ballard use this approach to model extra−classical receptive field effects.
APPROPRIATE ROLES FOR STATISTICAL DECISION THEORY AND HYPOTHESIS TESTING IN MODEL SELECTION

Abstract Statistical studies in the social sciences often analyze a cross section of communities that are assumed to be homogeneous for certain characteristics. However, the researcher might be interested in investigating the general behavior of all communities as well as particular differences between groups of communities that are spatially separated. This paper suggests, and empirically examines, a procedure which utilizes both statistical decision theory and hypothesis testing and enables us to determine the best model for estimating behavioral relationships for the full sample and for subgroups. The paper examines property crime occurrences in 94 New Jersey suburban communities of Philadelphia utilizing the full sample as well as subgroups within it. The purpose of grouping is to further understand the possible interjurisdictional mobility of urban criminals. The study suggests possible factors that induce urban criminals to commit crimes in the suburbs.
Post-experimentalist pragmatism

Rorty's neopragmatism is an attempt to retrofit Dewey's experimentalism for the post-modern situation. Specifically, he substitutes "language" for "experience" and "culture" for "science", to arrive at a philosophy "no closer to science than to art". I argue that the first move results from misunderstanding of the role experience plays in the context of verification in Dewey's experimental logic. The second move leaves Rorty without any alternative method even for approaching the very problems which Dewey proposed to solve with his experimentalism.
Solid-state Marx generator with 24 KV 4H-SIC IGBTs

This paper presents results on the utilization of newly-developed 24-kV n-channel silicon carbide Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) for Marx generator circuits. These state-of-the-art devices were evaluated in a small-scale, four-stage voltage multiplication circuit for their possible use in multi-scale power modulators. The 24 kV IGBTs had a chip area of 0.81 cm2 and were rated for 20 A. Their active area was 0.28 cm2, with a drift region of 230 μm, and a field-stop buffer of 2 μm. To evaluate device performance, the Marx generator was operated in single pulse mode. The input voltage was varied from 1 kV to 8 kV to obtain output voltages of 4 kV and 32 kV, respectively. The Marx generator delivered 0.6 MW to a low-inductance resistive load of 1500 Ω. The silicon carbide IGBTs displayed promising results for possible use in pulsed-power applications.
Fast CRC calculation

The integrity of messages in data communications is always ensured by the addition, at the end of the message, of a frame check sequence (FCS) traveling with the message itself so it can be checked at far end for proper transmission. A cyclic redundancy code (CRC) is employed to generate FCS at one end and check the entire received message (data plus FCS) at the other end. This is the case of frame relay for instance. Asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) even go further not only protecting either the entire message or each cell but also all cell headers that carry routing information. This raises the need for a simple and fast method to calculate CRC. This paper describes a simpler and faster method than the state of the art. >
Immunogenicity and Cross-Reactivity of a Representative Ancestral Sequence in Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Vaccines designed to prevent or to treat hepatitis C viral infection must achieve maximum cross-reactivity against widely divergent circulating strains. Rational approaches for sequence selection to maximize immunogenicity and minimize genetic distance across circulating strains may enhance vaccine induction of optimal cytotoxic T cell responses. We assessed T cell recognition of potential hepatitis C virus (HCV) vaccine sequences generated using three rational approaches: combining epitopes with predicted tight binding to the MHC, consensus sequence (most common amino acid at each position), and representative ancestral sequence that had been derived using bayesian phylogenetic tools. No correlation was seen between peptide-MHC binding affinity and frequency of recognition, as measured by an IFN-γ T cell response in HLA-matched HCV-infected individuals. Peptides encoding representative, consensus, and natural variant sequences were then tested for the capacity to expand CD8 T cell populations and to elicit cross-reactive CD8 T cell responses. CD8(+) T cells expanded with representative sequence HCV generally more broadly and robustly recognized highly diverse circulating HCV strains than did T cells expanded with either consensus sequence or naturally occurring sequence variants. These data support the use of representative sequence in HCV vaccine design.
Electrochemical deposition and dissolution of tungsten oxide bronzes

Abstract The potentiostatic deposition of sodium tungsten bronzes from Na 2 WO 4 WO 3 melts can produce large single crystals. A bronze grown in the same melt constitutes a reliable reference electrode. The current density, current efficiency and composition of the bronze remain constant throughout deposition. Potential against current data permit some mechanistic analysis on the basis of initial charge transfer to a WO3 tetramer. Dissolution is not the simple reverse of deposition and enhanced anodic currents are interpreted as simultaneous bronze dissolution and sodium dissolution from the deposit. The composition of the bronze is determined solely by the melt composition but {100} faces are favored over {110} faces at lower temperatures. Chemical and X-ray structure analyses of mixed bronzes (bronzes incorporating a second transition metal) are consistent with formulas NaxW1−yZyO3 (Z = Nb, Ta, Zr, V, Co). Failure to grow bronzes incorporating Re is suggested to be due to formation of a Re W oxide polymer which undergoes preferential charge transfer but which does not deposit.
A Proposed Dual Neurohumoral Role of Acetylcholine: Its Functions at the Pre- and Post-Synaptic Sites

A Proposed Dual Neurohumoral Role of Acetylcholine: Its Functions at the Pre- and Post-Synaptic Sites
52. Developmental programming of body weight, microglial development, and behavior by high-fat and BCAA-supplemented diets

Maternal obesity during gestation/lactation can “program” offspring for increased obesity themselves, along with increased vulnerability to mood disorders. Emerging evidence suggests that this programming by perinatal diet is propagated via inflammatory mechanisms, specifically linked to two components that are enriched in a “Western diet”: saturated fatty acids and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). We tested the hypothesis that these components would synergize to result in exacerbated brain and behavioral consequences in offspring. We placed female mice on one of 4 diets: (1) high-fat diet (HFD), (2) low-fat diet (LFD), (3) HFD supplemented with BCAA (HFD + BCAA), or (4) LFD supplemented with BCAA (LFD + BCAA) for 6 weeks prior to breeding, resulting in the following weight pattern: HFD + BCAA > HFD = LFD/BCAA > LFD. Although the pregnancy success rate of HFD groups was less than half that of the LFD groups, all groups had comparable litter sizes and birth weights. RT-PCR analysis of offspring brains at postnatal day (P)1 revealed that HFD and HFD + BCAA pups had decreased expression of microglial markers (e.g., Iba-1, CD11b), suggesting that microglial colonization and maturation may be delayed. By P28, HFD pups weighed more than LFD, whereas both BCAA groups weighed significantly less. Finally, in adulthood, HFD and HFD + BCAA offspring showed signs of increased anxiety and depressive-like behavior. In sum, perinatal diet, particularly HFD, can program body weight, microglial development, and behavior of offspring.
Comparison by microdialysis of striatal L-DOPA after its systemic administration in rats with probes implanted acutely or through a guide cannula.

Abstract Different methods of microdialysis probe implantation are utilized according to the purpose and needs of each particular study. However, very few experiments have systematically examined whether these different techniques have an impact on the obtained data. In the present study we examined the influence of two different microdialysis methods — acute probe implantation vs. insertion into a preimplanted guide cannula — on the striatal extracellular availability of systemically administered L -DOPA. Furthermore, we monitored the effects of L -DOPA administration on dopamine and its metabolite 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC). In rats that received a guide cannula 4 days prior to probe insertion and microdialysis, extracellular L -DOPA concentrations increased to concentrations that were about nine times higher than in rats with acute implantation of a microdialysis probe. Extracellular DOPAC concentrations were also higher in the chronic preparations but dopamine concentrations showed no differences between groups. Our results suggest that the observed differences may be due to inflammatory disruption of the BBB following chronic implantation of a guide cannula.
Heisenberg representation in classical general relativity

The energy of the gravitational field (as of any other system) is not always the numerical value of the Hamiltonian (for example, not in a Hamilton-Jacobi formulation). We define a classical « Heisenberg representation » which excludes Hamilton-Jacobi-like canonical transformations. Ordinarily, within the Heisenberg representation, there remains only the possibility of time-independent canonical transformation among the dynamical variables. However, the freedom of co-ordinate transformations in general relativity allows many extra « canonical » transformations not found in conventional Lorentz covariant theory. This wider class of canonical formalisms possess all the properties usually associated with the Heisenberg picture in that in each formalism the measurable quantities,gμv(t), are obtained from knowledge of the canonical variables at the same time without any explicit co-ordinate dependence. Further, the Hamiltonian is a constant of motion. Only in Heisenberg frames is the Hamiltonian to be associated with the energy of the system. In spite of the additional freedom of canonical transformations (due to the freedom of co-ordinate change mentioned above), it is shown that the Hamiltonian is numerically the same for a fixed state of the gravitational field in any Heisenberg representation. The energy is then a uniquely definable quantity in the theory. In the process, it is established that two Heisenberg frames can differ by co-ordinate transformations that depend only on the canonical variables and not explicitly on the co-ordinates. These transformations must also preserve the property that at spatial infinity the metric become Lorentz so that the physical boundary conditions be unaltered.
Waldenström macroglobulinemia: 2011 update on diagnosis, risk stratification, and management.

Disease overview: Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM) is a lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma with immunoglobulin M (IgM) monoclonal protein. Clinical features include anemia, thrombocytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, and lymphadenopathy. Diagnosis: Presence of IgM monoclonal protein associated with ≥10% clonal lymphoplasmacytic cells in bone marrow confirms the diagnosis. Risk stratification: Age, hemoglobin level, platelet count, β2-microglobulin, and monoclonal IgM concentrations are characteristics required for prognosis. Risk adapted therapy: Not all patients who fulfill WM criteria require therapy; these patients can be observed until symptoms develop. Rituximab-based therapy is used in virtually all US patients with WM and can be combined with alkylating agent or purine nucleoside analogue, or both. The preferred Mayo Clinic nonstudy therapeutic induction is rituximab, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone. Future stem cell transplantation should be considered in induction therapy selection. Management of refractory disease: Bortezomib, thalidomide, lenalidomide, and bendamustine have all been shown to have activity in WM. Given WM's natural history, reduction of complications will be a priority for future treatment trials. Am. J. Hematol. 86:411–416, 2011. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The criminalization of physician violence: Social control in transformation?

The violent victimization of medical patients resulting from reckless or negligent physician care has traditionally remained beyond the reach of the criminal law. The professional nature of the doctor-patient relationship, as well as the existence of civil and peer-initiated sanctions, has insulated doctors from criminal prosecution. The purpose of our research is to examine whether this traditional immunity remains intact or has been breached. As a prelude to this analysis, we identify several factors which, when considered together, indicate physicians' increasing vulnerability to criminal prosecution. We present the results of a search conducted to identify cases involving the criminal prosecution of physician violence, and we examine the cases in terms of several characteristics that marked the prosecutions. Our results suggest that we may be witnessing the beginning of the use of the criminal sanction against physician violence.
Definable Encodings in the Computably Enumerable Sets

The purpose of this communication is to announce some recent results on the computably enumerable sets. There are two disjoint sets of results; the first involves invariant classes and the second involves automorphisms of the computably enumerable sets. What these results have in common is that the guts of the proofs of these theorems uses a new form of definable coding for the computably enumerable sets. We will work in the structure of the computably enumerable sets. The language is just inclusion, ⊆. This structure is called e. All sets will be computably enumerable non-computable sets and all degrees will be computably enumerable and non-computable, unless otherwise noted. Our notation and definitions are standard and follow Soare [1987]; however we will warm up with some definitions and notation issues so the reader need not consult Soare [1987]. Some historical remarks follow in Section 2.1 and throughout Section 3. We will also consider the quotient structure e modulo the ideal of finite sets, e*. e* is a definable quotient structure of e since “Χ is finite” is definable in e; “Χ is finite” iff all subsets of Χ are computable (it takes a little computability theory to show if Χ is infinite then Χ has an infinite non-computable subset). We use A* to denote the equivalent class of A under the ideal of finite sets.
Program Excellence Network of the Academy of Human Resource Development: Its Purpose and Activities.

The Academy of Human Resource Development (AHRD) established the Program Excellence Network (PEN) in September 2006 in response to a proposal brought forward by this author, Wendy Ruona. I led the proposal and founding of this group; however, the seeds of it were planted along with Jerry Gilley, President of the AHRD 2006-2008, and Larry Dooley, President of the AHRD from 2004-2006, who both made fostering program and teaching excellence important priorities in their presidential agendas. In addition, I am also grateful for the support and input of Susan Madsen, Utah Valley State College, who energetically supported this initiative and brainstormed with me at important points along the path, as well as for a group of board members and program leaders from across the country who spent time with me during the 2006 AHRD meeting dreaming about what we could create.
Flight Crew Task Management in Non-Normal Situations

Task management (TM) is always performed on the flight deck, although not always explicitly, consistently, or rigorously. Nowhere is TM as important as it is in dealing with non-normal situations. The objective of this study was to analyze pilot TM behavior for non-normal situations. Specifically, the study observed pilots'' performance in a full workload environment in order to discern their TM strategies. This study identified four different TM prioritization and allocation strategies: ''Aviate-Navigate-Communicate-Manage Systems;'' ''Perceived Severity;'' ''Procedure Based;'' and ''Event/Interrupt Driven.'' Subjects used these strategies to manage their personal workload and to schedule monitoring and assessment of the situation. The ''Perceived Severity'' strategy for personal workload management combined with the ''Aviate-Navigate-Communicate- Manage Systems'' strategy for monitoring and assessing appeared to be the most effective (fewest errors and fastest response times) in responding to the novel system failure used in this study.
Automated discovery of new axiomatizations of the left group and right group calculi

This paper shows how the automated theorem-proving program OTTER was used to discover new axiomatizations, including single axioms, for the left group and righ group calculi. J. A. Kalman's original axiomatizations of the two calculi each contain five axioms. Three of Kalman's axioms (L1, L4, and L5) for the left group calculus were shown to be dependent on the remaining two axioms. Four of Kalman's axioms (R1, R3, R4, and R5) for the right group calculus were shown to be dependent on the remaining axiom. Alternative simpler axiomatizations were discovered for both calculi, including a single axiom for the left group calculus and five additional single axioms for the right group calculus. The program OTTER was vital in discovering candidate axiomatizations as well as in finding proofs of new axiomatizations. All of the relevant OTTER proofs are included.
Mitochondrial-based voltammetric sensor for pesticides

The mode of action of many pesticides is to inhibit electron transport chain complexes of the mitochondria of living cells. Therefore, this paper investigated whether mitochondrial modified electrodes could be utilized to electrochemically sense pesticides. This paper details the fabrication of a two electrode electrochemical cell utilizing a mitochondrial modified bioanode in pyruvate solution and an air-breathing platinum cathode. 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, atrazine, paraquat, parathion, and permethrin were studied as pesticides. Pesticide detection was performed by background subtracted linear scan voltammetry of the two-electrode mitochondrial biofuel cell before and after the addition of pesticide. Pesticides were shown to attenuate pyruvate bioelectrocatalysis for all pesticides studied. A concentration study was performed with atrazine and showed a sigmoidal inhibition response with concentration and the ability to detect concentrations at the EPA maximum contaminant level of 3 ppb.
Distributed Mechanical System Simulation Based on a General “Gluing Algorithm”

Three key concepts are presented in this paper, which comprise the foundation of a distributed simulation platform for design and virtual prototyping of general mechanical systems that have their subsystems distributed amongst dispersed development units in multi-layered supply chains. First, a new gluing algorithm, denoted as the T-T method, is developed, which enables distributed simulations (both the component model and simulation of the component) to be coupled while maintaining the independence of the separate component simulations. Second, a general and efficient model description for simulation is defined using XML. Each model is described with an XML file and stored in model database. A complete model then can be assembled based on these model descriptions. Simulation of a model is started simply by sending the model description to a simulation server. Third, a logical distributed architecture is laid out that can be implemented with one of the existing technologies for distributed computing. Interfaces between different network components have been standardized to enable extensibility of the architecture. These concepts have been incorporated into a prototype distributed simulation system that demonstrates the potential of the new techniques for solving real engineering design problems.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Shift in the LHC Higgs diphoton mass peak from interference with background

The Higgs diphoton amplitude from gluon fusion at the LHC interferes with the continuum background induced by quark loops. I investigate the effect of this interference on the position of the diphoton invariant mass peak used to help determine the Higgs mass. At leading order, the interference shifts the peak towards lower mass by an amount of order 150 MeV or more, with the precise value dependent on the methods used to analyze and fit the data.
The role of sophisticated instruments in biological research: examples from nuclear magnetic resonance.

The development of NMR is described to illustrate the importance of new methodologies to solve biological problems.
Application of Near-Infrared Attenuated Total Reflectance Spectroscopy for Monitoring Epoxy Resin/Amine Cure Reactions

Product quality in composite processing will be improved by dependable methods for monitoring the process. In this paper, the feasibility of using near-infrared attenuated total reflection (NIR ATR) spectroscopy as a sensor for monitoring epoxy resin cure is demonstrated. An ATR crystal serves as a contact sensor, which has several potential advantages over embedded optic fiber techniques previously reported. NIR ATR spectra obtained from several epoxy/amine systems show that both primary amine and epoxy functional groups have well-isolated absorption peaks in the near-infrared region. The utility of NIR ATR spectroscopy for in situ cure monitoring is demonstrated by following the reaction between phenyl glycidyl ether and butylamine at ambient temperature.
Effects of prostacyclin (PGI2) on vulnerability to ventricular fibrillation in the normal and ischemic canine heart

Prostacyclin (PGI2) has been shown to have a number of beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. However, its effects on ventricular electrical properties remain unexplored. We studied the effects of this naturally occurring humoral agent on ventricular vulnerability in the normal heart and in two models of myocardial ischemia: coronary artery occlusion and release and ergonovine-induced coronary vasoconstriction. Prostacyclin lowered the vulnerable period threshold in the normal animal. PGI2 had no effect on ventricular vulnerability when the blood pressure was controlled with phenylephrine and was not protective during either occlusion or release. However, when blood pressure was controlled, PGI2 did not reverse the vasoconstrictor and profibrillatory effects of ergonovine.
Fermentation media and production of exotoxin by three varieties of Bacillus thuringiensis

Abstract The insecticidal activities of the exotoxin produced by three varieties of Bacillus thuringiensis grown in six fermentation media were determined by testing the supernatants against larvae of the house fly, Musca domestica, and the black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon. The activities of the exotoxins from the isolates varied when they were grown in the same medium and also when they were grown in different media. When an isolate of B. thuringiensis var. thuringiensis, and of var. tolworthi were grown in proflo broth, the supernatants produced were more toxic to house fly than to black cutworm larvae, indicating the presence of more than one exotoxin. Autoclaving the supernatants for 15 and 30 min further demonstrated the presence of several exotoxins.
Short term treatment of dental avoidance

Two case studies are presented employing a set of three standard fear reduction procedures to reduce fearful and avoidant behavior associated with dentistry. After the treatment program of symbolic modeling, graduated exposure and self-paced in vivo practice, both clients (who had avoided dentistry due to fear for six and thirteen years, respectively) scheduled and appeared for dental treatment. A one year follow-up showed both clients had maintained regular dental treatment. Total therapist contact time was three and one-half hours for each client.
Shear punch tests for mechanical property measurements in TEM disc-sized specimens

Abstract A shear punch test has been developed to extract strength and ductility information from thin sheet samples as small as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) disc specimens. The test is based on driving a cylindrical punch through a clamped specimen, and instrumenting the punch to obtain a load-displacement curve of the punching process. A number of correlations have been developed between features of the load-displacement curve and mechanical properties such as yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, work hardening exponent and reduction in area.
What Treatments are “Satisfactory?” Divining Regulatory Intent and an Ethical Basis for Exception to Informed Consent for Emergency Research

Interpretation of the Federal regulations governing exception to informed consent (21 CFR 50.24) is difficult, in part, because relatively little guidance has been given to institutional review boards (IRBs) in defining the regulation’s terms. Exception to consent is only permitted, for example, when the available treatments for the lifethreatening condition being investigated “are unproven or unsatisfactory,” but how does one define unsatisfactory in this context? Kipnis et al. argue that the in-hospital phase of the PolyHeme ©R Hemorrhagic Shock trial (of PolyHeme ©R , Northfield Laboratories, Inc., Evanston, IL) does not meet the regulatory requirements for research performed using exception to informed consent for emergency research because they believe that the control therapy in that phase, blood transfusion, is “proven and satisfactory” (Kipnis, King and Nelson 2006). We are concerned that this definition of “unsatisfactory” is too narrow and cannot be justified. We present an alternative definition, developed and put forward by a recent consensus conference on resuscitation research and exception to consent (Watters 2005), that has a more satisfactory ethical basis and that we think is more consistent with the regulatory intent. We are concerned about the effect of the narrow definition on all emergency research and on the patients affected by emergency conditions. We critique this definition of “satisfactory” and then explain the reasoning and definition developed by the consensus conference.
Limited Role of Ceramide in Lipopolysaccharide-mediated Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase Activation, Transcription Factor Induction, and Cytokine Release

The involvement of ceramide in lipopolysaccharide-mediated activation of mouse macrophages was studied. Lipopolysaccharide, cell-permeable ceramide analogs, and bacterial sphingomyelinase led to phosphorylation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinases, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinases, and p38 kinase and induced AP-1 DNA binding in C3H/OuJ (Lpsn) but not in C3H/HeJ (Lpsd) macrophages. Lipopolysaccharide and ceramide mimetics showed distinct kinetics of mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation and AP-1 induction and activated AP-1 complexes with different subunit compositions. Lipopolysaccharide-activated AP-1 consisted of c-Fos, Jun-B, Jun-D, and c-Jun, while C2-ceramide induced Jun-D and c-Jun only. Lipopolysaccharide and, less potently, C2-ceramide or sphingomyelinase, stimulated AP-1-dependent reporter gene transcription in RAW 264.7 cells. Unlike lipopolysaccharide, C2-ceramide failed to activate NF-kappaB and did not induce production of tumor necrosis factor or interleukin-6. The lipopolysaccharide antagonist, Rhodobacter sphae-roides diphosphoryl lipid A, inhibited lipopolysaccharide activation of NF-kappaB and AP-1 but did not block C2-ceramide-induced AP-1. Pretreatment of C3H/OuJ macrophages with C2-ceramide greatly diminished AP-1 induction following subsequent C2-ceramide stimulation. However, lipopolysaccharide-induced transcription factor activation and cytokine release were not influenced. In contrast, lipopolysaccharide pretreatment inhibited both lipopolysaccharide- and C2-ceramide-mediated responses. Thus, ceramide partially mimics lipopolysaccharide in activating the mitogen-activated protein kinases and AP-1 but not in mediating NF-kappaB induction or cytokine production, suggesting a limited role in lipopolysaccharide signaling.
Federal-state conflict over ocean hard minerals governance: Coastal state responses to federal prospecting regulations

Abstract This paper describes the conflict surrounding the US Minerals Management Service's regulatory thrust to govern ocean mining in the US Exclusive Economic Zone. It explains the differences of view over the source of authority to pursue ocean mining and describes how the Service attempted to reduce conflict through joint federal-state task forces. It details the content of the first stage of its regulatory regime, that of prospecting, and summarizes the state responses to it. The paper concludes that while some conflict is inevitable each level of government should work together to ensure a balanced system of governance.
TgVTC2 is involved in polyphosphate accumulation in Toxoplasma gondii.

Polyphosphate is found in every cell, having roles in diverse processes, including differentiation and response to stress. In this study, we characterize a Toxoplasma gondii mutant containing an insertion within the carboxy-terminal end of a homolog of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Vtc2p, a component of the polyphosphate synthetic machinery. Locus TgVTC2 encodes a 140 kDa protein containing conserved SPX, VTC and transmembrane domains. TgVTC2 localizes in punctate spots within the cytoplasm that do not co-localize with known markers. The TgVTC2 mutant showed dramatically reduced polyphosphate accumulation, a defect restored by introduction of TgVTC2 to the mutant. Insertion within TgVTC2 resulted in increased transcript levels for two loci, including a putative FIKK kinase. These transcript levels were restored to wild-type levels upon complementation with the TgVTC2 locus. The TgVTC2 locus was refractory to knockout, and may be essential. Analysis of this TgVTC2 mutant will facilitate dissection of the T. gondii polyphosphate synthesis pathway.
Reactions of H, N, and O atoms with carbon chain anions of interstellar interest : An experimental study

The molecular ions HC and HC have recently been identified both in the laboratory and in astronomical environments. In addition, carbon chain anions have been proposed as potential carriers of the diffuse interstellar bands. Using a selected ion flow tube apparatus, we have determined the rate constants for the reactions of C and HC with H, N, and O atoms in order to characterize their interstellar chemistry. Reactions between the carbon chain anions and H and O occur readily, with rate constants ranging from mid to high 10-10 cm3 s -1. H atom reactions proceed primarily by associative detachment, and O atom reactions proceed both by associative detachment and by extrusion of CO. Reactions between the carbon chains and N atoms are slower, but the reaction products that are observed could provide a negative ion pathway for the synthesis of observed interstellar species.
Brief paper: Adaptive tracking of nonlinear systems with non-symmetric dead-zone input

Quite successfully adaptive control strategies have been applied to uncertain dynamical systems subject to dead-zone nonlinearities. However, adaptive tracking of systems with non-symmetric dead-zone characteristics has not been fully discussed with minimal knowledge of the dead-zone parameters. It is shown that the controlled system preceded by a non-symmetric dead-zone input can be represented as an uncertain nonlinear system subject to a linear input with time-varying input coefficient. To cope with this problem, a new adaptive compensation algorithm is employed without constructing the dead-zone inverse. The proposed adaptive scheme requires only the information of bounds of the dead-zone slopes and treats the time-varying input coefficient as a system uncertainty. The new control scheme ensures bounded-error trajectory tracking and assures the boundedness of all the signals in the adaptive closed loop. By appropriate selections of the controller parameters, we show that the smoothness of the controller does not affect the accuracy of trajectory tracking control. A numerical example is included to show the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Generation of 22mW of 532-nm radiation by frequency doubling in Ti:MgO:LiNbO3 waveguides.

We report temperature phase-matched second-harmonic generation of 1.064-μm radiation in Ti-indiffused waveguides in MgO-doped LiNbO3 substrates. Noncritical phase matching of the TE2 mode was achieved at 102–106°C. Owing to the high-temperature operation and the low photorefractivity of the waveguide, it was possible to generate 22-mW average-power 532-nm output. No evidence of photorefractive scattering was observed during 5 h of operation at 3-mW output.
Clinical characteristics of patients younger than 60 years with mitral anular calcium: comparison with age- and sex-matched control subjects

The clinical characteristics of 107 patients younger than 60 years with mitral anular calcium (MAC) were compared with those of 107 age- and sex-matched control subjects. The patients with MAC included 55 men and 52 women, mean age 51 years. The control group included 55 men and 52 women, mean age 51 years. Patients with MAC had a higher prevalence of cardiomegaly on chest x-ray (p