cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of environmental particulates on cultured human and bovine endothelium. Cellular injury via an oxidant-dependent pathway.

The effects of respirable environmental fibers on cultures of human umbilical vein and bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cell monolayers were studied. Interaction among endothelial cell monolayers and amosite and chrysotile asbestos, attapulgite, fiberglass, or latex beads resulted in rapid phagocytosis of the particulates. A gradient of time-dependent and concentration-dependent endothelial cell injury (measured by specific 51Cr release) was observed with amosite and attapulgite being markedly toxic. Chrysotile and fiberglass were much less toxic, and latex beads were not significantly injurious at any time or dose examined. Responses of bovine pulmonary artery and human endothelial vein endothelial cells to fiber phagocytosis and fiber-induced injury were similar. In human umbilical cell monolayers, fiber-mediated stimulation of the arachidonate metabolite prostacyclin paralleled endothelial cell injury; i.e. amosite and attapulgite were stimulatory, whereas fiberglass (0-500 micrograms/ml) and latex beads (10(9) beads/ml) did not significantly increase prostacyclin generation. Although chrysotile was only weakly cytotoxic, significant stimulation of prostacyclin was observed at the highest dose tested (500 micrograms/ml). To investigate whether toxic oxygen species may be involved in fiber-induced cytotoxicity, oxidant scavengers or inhibitors were used in injury studies. Both superoxide dismutase (a scavenger of O2-) and catalase (an inhibitor of H2O2) produced significant protection against fiber-mediated endothelial cell injury. In addition, chelation by deferoxamine of elemental Fe present in the fiber preparations was also protective, suggesting Fe, via the modified Haber-Weiss reaction, may promote hydroxyl radical formation and contribute to endothelial cell injury induced by these particulates. These results suggest that the interaction within the interstitial environment between endothelial cells and occupationally relevant dusts may be important in fiber-mediated inflammatory processes in the lung.
Liver Proliferation Is an Essential Driver of Fibrosis in Mouse Models of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) involves development of hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, and steatohepatitis. Because hepatic steatosis appears first in NAFLD animal models, the current therapy development focuses on inhibition of hepatic steatosis, suggesting that further steps of NAFLD will be also inhibited. In this report, we show that the first event of NAFLD is liver proliferation, which drives fibrosis in NAFLD. We have deleted a strong driver of liver proliferation, gankyrin (Gank), and examined development of NAFLD in this animal model under conditions of a high-fat diet (HFD). We found that proliferating livers of wild-type mice develop fibrosis; however, livers of Gank liver-specific knockout (GLKO) mice with reduced proliferation show no fibrosis. Interestingly, an HFD causes the development of strong macrovesicular steatosis in GLKO mice and is surprisingly associated with improvements in animal health. We observed that key regulators of liver biology CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα), hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α), p53, and CUG repeat binding protein 1 (CUGBP1) are elevated due to the deletion of Gank and that these proteins support liver functions leading to healthy conditions in GLKO mice under an HFD. To examine the role of one of these proteins in the protection of liver from fibrosis, we used CUGBP1-S302A knockin mice, which have a reduction of CUGBP1 due to increased degradation of this mutant by Gank. These studies show that reduction of CUGBP1 inhibits steatosis and facilitates liver proliferation, leading to fibrosis and the development of liver tumors. Conclusion: Liver proliferation drives fibrosis, while steatosis might play a protective role. Therapy for NAFLD should include inhibition of proliferation rather than inhibition of steatosis.
Forgive and Remember: The Relationship between Religion and the Recollection of Transgressions

Although world religions extol the virtue of forgiveness, psychological research has uncovered a religion-forgiveness discrepancy in which individual differences in religiousness are positively rel...
Making research real: Innovative approaches for graduate level nursing research

Abstract Background Engaging graduate students in the research process is often challenging. Making research real requires more innovation than lecture alone. Purpose This project is a new curricular approach to Nursing Research, where graduate students collectively engage in the entire research process, from project conception through dissemination. Methods The Seven Principles of Good Practice framework was utilized to structure this innovative teaching strategy. Graduate students work together over the course of four semesters with the same faculty member guiding their research study. There are six major components to this innovative curriculum approach: student driven research idea, proposal writing, IRB application process, data collection, data analysis, and dissemination. Results Student enthusiasm was consistent across all five research projects to date. Students report they have been challenged by the experience but also enjoyed it. The group research project turned something that seemed intimidating into something accomplishable. Students spoke to the idea that through the process of mentoring and collaboration, they gained the needed skills and confidence to embrace their own research agendas. Conclusion Developing and maintaining a student research innovation creates an enriched environment for instilling the passion and practical experience of being a nurse researcher.
An isotope harvesting beam blocker for the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory

Abstract Harvesting isotopes from beam stops and other activated materials at accelerator facilities is a promising source of environmentally, scientifically and socially important radionuclides. At the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB), a multitude of short- and long-lived radionuclides will be collected in a synergistic manner by dumping unused beams into a flowing-water beam stop. Ongoing exploratory research at the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL) with an analogous beam blocker aims towards obtaining the necessary radiochemical expertise for this endeavor. Herein we present a beam blocker and an isotope harvesting system which allows collection of a wide variety of aqueous and gaseous radionuclides. The water which flows through the beam blocker functions as an isotope production target and concurrently transports the newly formed radionuclides to collection sites. The system includes analytical instruments for online measurements of conductivity, dissolved oxygen, temperature, pressure and for detection of radiolytic products. To limit the levels of radiolytically produced hydrogen peroxide, a stainless-steel based degradation system was designed and implemented. The suitability of the constructed system for the anticipated radionuclide harvesting project was demonstrated by offline tests and under irradiation with 140 MeV/u 48Ca20＋ ions at the NSCL Coupled Cyclotron Facility.
Optical Carrier-Wave Subcycle Structures Associated with Supercritical Collapse of Long-Wavelength Intense Pulses Propagating in Weakly Anomalously Dispersive Media

We predict the emergence of attosecond-duration structures on an optical carrier wave when intense, long-wavelength pulses propagate through bulk media with weak anomalous dispersion. Under certain conditions, these structures can undergo a new type of carrier-resolved supercritical collapse, forming infinite spatiotemporal gradients in the field. The mathematical conditions for the onset of this singularity are briefly overviewed, and we demonstrate with a full $3\mathrm{D}+\mathrm{time}$ ($3+1$) simulation that such structures persist under realistic conditions for a 10 micron laser pulse propagating in air.
Heaving, Stretching, Spicing and Isopycnal Analysis

Climate variability in the ocean can be generated by two basic mechanisms: the internal nonlinear dynamics or the external forcing anomalies. The later can be further separated into three basic terms: anomalies in momentum, heat and freshwater fluxes through the air-sea interface. Tidal dissipation anomalies can also induce climate variability; however, such variability is characterized by much longer time scales, and thus will not be discussed here.
Rapid detection of tuberculosis in remote Alaska.

In a remote region of western Alaska where tuberculosis (TB) incidence remains relatively high, a rapid molecular detection assay (Xpert MTB/RIF) was introduced four years ago with goal of improvin...
Suprascapular Neuropathy From Malpositioned Baseplate Screws in Primary Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty: Two Case Reports.

Cases Two patients presented to different surgeons complaining of persistent shoulder pain after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. Workups for fracture, instability, and periprosthetic infection were negative. Advanced imaging, nerve conduction studies, and diagnostic injections localized symptoms to the suprascapular nerve. Revision arthroplasty with removal of the offending screws improved pain in both patients. Conclusion Suprascapular nerve irritation because of the malposition of baseplate screws in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty can be a source of postoperative pain. Removal of the offending screw without formal nerve exploration may result in symptomatic improvement.
Two cases of supratentorial lobar intracranial hemorrhage following lumbar decompression and stabilization.

Background Lumbar spine surgery with or without intraoperative dural tear (DT) may contribute to postoperative subdural hematomas and/or cerebellar intracranial hemorrhages (ICHs). Here, we present two patients, one with and one without an intraoperative DT occurring during lumbar surgery, both of whom developed acute postoperative supratentorial ICHs. Case Description Two patients developed supratentorial lobar ICH following lumbar decompressions and fusion. The first patient, without an intraoperative DT, developed multiple ICHs involving the left cerebellum and left temporal lobe. The second patient, following an L4-5 decompression/instrumented fusion involving a DT, postoperatively developed a large right frontal ICH. Conclusion Here, two patients undergoing lumbar spine surgery with/without DT subsequently developed significant ICH.
Using the UPOINT system to manage men with chronic pelvic pain syndrome

Objective : To outline our approach for the evaluation and management of patients with chronic prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) based on our interpretation and application of currently available evidence. Methods : CP/CPPS in men is a medical condition that plagues both the patient and the practitioner, as it is widely believed to be poorly understood and difficult to treat. While pelvic pain is typically the predominant symptom, many men may exhibit voiding symptoms, sexual dysfunction and psychiatric complaints. Still, most studies of CP/CPPS management have evaluated singular treatments, without focussing on individual patients' clinical phenotypes. This is a clinically practical mini-review based on the authors' interpretation and application of currently available evidence related to management of CP/CPPS. Results : Patient evaluation should consist of history and physical examination (with focus on the genitourinary and digital rectal examination), laboratory tests (including urine analysis and urine culture with consideration of pre- and post-prostate massage urine cultures), post-void residual, and questionnaires including the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptoms Index, which helps assess symptom severity and treatment response. Once CP/CPPS is diagnosed, the UPOINT phenotype system, which classifies patients into six domains: Urinary, Psychosocial, Organ Specific, Infectious, Neurological/systemic and Tenderness of skeletal muscles, is used to guide treatment. Each domain is characterised by specific complaints and thus is responsive to distinct treatments. As patients may be grouped into multiple domains, each patient's overall multimodal treatment can vary. Conclusion : Using the UPOINT phenotype system is a holistic approach that can yield significant benefits for patients with CP/CPPS.
Children's Health in a Legal Framework

Summary The U.S. legal system gives parents the authority and responsibility to make decisions about their children’s health care, and favors parental rights over society’s collective responsibility to provide for children’s welfare. Neither the federal government nor state governments have an affirmative obligation to protect and promote children’s health, nor do children have a right to such protection. In this sense, write Clare Huntington and Elizabeth Scott, policies to promote child health in this country, such as those discussed elsewhere in this issue, are optional. Our libertarian legal framework grants parents broad authority to raise their children as they see fit. Parents can refuse recommended medical treatment for their children, and when they do so, courts respond with deference, particularly when parents’ objections are based on religious beliefs. Parental authority has its limits, however. For example, the government can intervene to protect children’s welfare in cases of medical neglect or when the child’s life is in danger. Additionally, the law sometimes limits parental authority over older children. For example, teenagers may be able to refuse some treatments, such as psychiatric hospitalization, over their parents’ objections. Older minors may also have access to treatments such as family planning services without their parents’ consent. Because the government has no positive obligation to promote children’s health, write Huntington and Scott, children’s health programs are often underfunded and vulnerable to political pressure. Programs are also more likely to focus on responding to family crises than on helping parents raise healthy children. In this environment, policy makers, researchers, and advocates must build political support by showing that investments in children’s health not only benefit children but also promote social welfare.
Reinscribing Conrad: Tayeb Salih's Season of Migration to the North

In the works of postcolonial writers such as Salman Rushdie, Derek Walcott, Chinua Achebe and others, one sees an attempt to resist and reinterpret the ideological underpinnings of imperialist writings, an effort in which not just the historical subject of colonial discourse but the discourse itself might be reversed. One such work is Tayeb Salih's Season of Migration to the North J Published in 1969, Salih's novel is significant, not only for its appropriation of the topoi—the journey into the unknown, the quest for self-identity—of Conrad's Heart of Darkness, but also for its efforts to resist, reinterpret, and revise from the perspective of the colonized Other, the epistemology and language of discourse signified in Conrad's novel. In the process, Salih's work reclaims for itself both the fictive territory and the imagined topos of Conrad's Africa, and substitutes a postcolonial retelling, a new mythos for Africa, for a colonizing tale.
Low energy Yukawa input parameters for Yukawa coupling Unification

I make a short review of the most recent determinations of the quark masses and run them to the $M_Z$ energy scale.
Risk Factors for Child Abuse: Methodologic Standards in Case-Control Studies

To determine whether the findings of case-control studies of risk factors for child abuse may have been biased because of inattention to scientific principles of research design, 22-case-control studies were reviewed investigating either of two risk factors: (1) prematurity or low birth weight of the abused child or (2) young maternal age of the mother of the abused child. Each study was examined to determine compliance with seven methodologic standards that would minimize bias or distortion of the results. No study satisfied all seven standards. Two standards, choice of a specific control group and adjustment for differences in clinical and demographic susceptibility factors, most often affected the results. Studies complying with both of these standards indicated that prematurity or low birth weight is not a risk factor for abuse and that young maternal age at the birth of the abused child is likely to be a risk factor. Few studies complied with the standard concerned with avoidance of detection bias; this failure may have a major effect on the direction bias; this failure may have a major effect on the direction of the results of certain studies. Previous case-control studies of child abuse have important methodologic flaws that can affect the validity of the results. The standards presented should be helpful in planning methodologically rigorous studies.
Computation, Philosophical Issues about

‘Computation’ is a cluster concept and has been characterized in many different ways (e.g. ‘the execution of algorithms’). It underwrites philosophical analyses of what can be done in principle by a mechanism, and is intrinsically connected to the idea of manipulating symbols or representations by formal rules. Keywords: computation; computationalism; turing machine; algorithm; representation
ANALYSIS OF VEHICLE SUSPENSIONS WITH STATIC AND DYNAMIC COMPUTER SIMULATIONS

Two types of computer simulations are used extensively by Chevrolet to analyze vehicle suspension systems. The first is a nonlinear static analysis and the second is a linear dynamic analysis. These simulations are used to help evaluate proposed suspension designs for loads, dynamic force transmissibility, and various ride and handling characteristics well before prototype hardware is built and tested. Load outputs from these simulations are input to finite element models to analyse stresses in frames, control arms, and other related vehicle components of interest. /GMRL/
Using learned extraction patterns for text classification

A major knowledge-engineering bottleneck for information extraction systems is the process of constructing an appropriate dictionary of extraction patterns. AutoSlog is a dictionary construction system that has been shown to substantially reduce the time required for knowledge engineering by learning extraction patterns automatically. However, an open question was whether these extraction patterns were useful for tasks other than information extraction. We describe a series of experiments that show how the extraction patterns learned by AutoSlog can be used for text classification. Three dictionaries produced by AutoSlog for different domains performed well in our text classification experiments.
Multifractal analysis of emulsion 197 collisions at 10.6 A GeV

We compute the multifractal moments ${\mathit{G}}_{\mathit{q}}$ in terms of a new scaled variable X suggested by Bialas and Gazdzicki to study the dynamical fluctuations of particles produced in the interactions of $^{197}\mathrm{Au}$ at 10.6A GeV with nuclear emulsion. An asymptotic power-law dependence of the moments on the bin size \ensuremath{\delta}X has been observed in pseudorapidity (\ensuremath{\eta}), azimuthal (\ensuremath{\varphi}), and \ensuremath{\eta}-\ensuremath{\varphi} phase spaces. The dynamical values of the generalized dimensions are determined in all the phase spaces. The dynamical properties of the produced particles are mapped onto smooth multifractal spectra f(\ensuremath{\Delta}${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\alpha}}}_{\mathit{q}}$) by excluding the statistical contribution. The $^{197}\mathrm{Au}$ results are compared with a $^{28}\mathrm{Si}$ ion at 14.5A GeV and a $^{32}\mathrm{S}$ beam at 200A GeV.
Reliability and validity of intraoral and extraoral scanners

This study evaluated the reliability and validity of one extraoral [Ortho Insight 3D™ (Motionview Software, Hixson, TN/USA)] and two intraoral [ITero™ (Align Technologies, San Jose, CA/USA) and Lythos™ (Ormco Corp., Orange, CA/USA)] scanners. Fifteen dry human mandibles were scanned twice with each of the scanners, and digital models were generated. Five measurements were made on the dry mandibles and on each of the generated models, including intermolar width, intercanine width, posterior arch length, premolar crown diameter, and canine height. Systematic and random errors were evaluated based on replicate analyses. Differences were assessed using paired Student’s t tests. Replicate analyses showed statistically significant systematic errors for only one measure (intermolar width measured from Ortho Insight 3D scans). Measurements taken from all three scanners were highly reliable, with intraclass correlations ranging from .926 to .999. Method errors were all less than 0.25 mm (averaged ≈0.12 mm). Posterior arch length and canine height were significantly smaller when measured on the Ortho Insight 3D scans than when measured on the dry mandibles and significantly smaller than when measured from the ITero and Lythos models. While all three scanners produced reliable measures, Ortho Insight 3D systematically underestimated arch length and canine height.
Pancreatic regeneration (reg) gene expression in a rat model of islet hyperplasia

Background. After pancreatectomy, regeneration of acinar and islet elements occurs. Recent data from a model of islet hyperplasia in the hamster suggested that induction of a local pancreatic factor stimulates islet formation. We postulate that the reg gene may be this factor. Methods. We studied reg expression during induction of islet growth by using a similar model in the rat. Rats underwent surgical urapping of the splenic lobe of the pancreas or sham operation. Results. At 2 days ductular proliferation and immunohistochemical evidence of insulin within ductular epithelia were evident in the urapped lobe. By 14 and 56 days islet number per square millimeter increased 63% and 43%, respectively. Reg mRNA levels, measured by Northern blot analysis with a rat reg cDNA probe (n=5), increased 300% at 2 days in the wrapped lobe and decreased to that of unuwrapped controls by 14 days. In situ hybridization showed localization of reg to the acinar cells. In unwrapped gastric lobes of animals who underwent surgical wrapping of the splenic lobe, no change in islet number per square millimeter or reg gene expression was noted. Conclusions. Surgical wrapping of the pancreatic splenic lobe induces local reg gene expression that is temporally associated with duct cell hyperplasia. This is followed by islet formation within the wrapped lobe. Reg may play a role in the induction of new islets from ductular precursors and in maintenance of normal islet function.
Using fecal progestagens and logistic regression to enhance pregnancy detection in wild ungulates: A bison case study

Ungulate ecological studies often include components of reproduction because of its demographic importance and the ecological factors affecting it. Pregnancy status, in particular, is key because it represents a starting point for succeeding measurements of vital rates. Here, we present a case study using wild bison (Bison bison), in which we developed a non-invasive method for assessing pregnancy in unmarked, non-handled animals that improves upon existing approaches for wild ungulates. Specifically, we employed a model-based binary logistic-regression approach to estimate the probability of pregnancy predicted by fecal progestagen concentrations quantified from a single, late-gestation scat sample. For 155 observations of 42 marked bison from the Jackson herd in northwest Wyoming, USA during 1997–2005, we used combinations of transrectal uterine palpation and calf status as independent measures of pregnancy to reduce the potential for error inherent in using either measure alone. We evaluated predictive success by calculating mis-prediction rates from leave-one-out cross-validation, and by calculating the percentage of 95% confidence intervals that crossed a pregnant–not-pregnant threshold. Correct predictions, with high confidence, were obtained from a model using year-centered, natural-log-transformed progestagen concentrations, resulting in an overall successful cross-validation pregnancy prediction rate of 93.5%. Our approach will allow practitioners to consider the uncertainty associated with each prediction, thereby improving prediction interpretations. The approach should appeal to practitioners because fecal samples are easily collected and preserved, laboratory procedures are well-documented, and logistic-regression statistical software is readily available. Furthermore, samples can be obtained non-invasively, which reduces cost and potential bias and increases animal safety, human safety, and social acceptability. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Aeromechanics of passive rotation in flapping flight

Flying insects and robots that mimic them flap and rotate (or ‘pitch’) their wings with large angular amplitudes. The reciprocating nature of flapping requires rotation of the wing at the end of each stroke. Insects or flapping-wing robots could achieve this by directly exerting moments about the axis of rotation using auxiliary muscles or actuators. However, completely passive rotational dynamics might be preferred for efficiency purposes, or, in the case of a robot, decreased mechanical complexity and reduced system mass. Herein, the detailed equations of motion are derived for wing rotational dynamics, and a blade-element model is used to supply aerodynamic force and moment estimates. Passive-rotation flapping experiments with insect-scale mechanically driven artificial wings are conducted to simultaneously measure aerodynamic forces and three-degree-of-freedom kinematics (flapping, rotation and out-of-plane deviation), allowing a detailed evaluation of the blade-element model and the derived equations of motion. Variations in flapping kinematics, wing-beat frequency, stroke amplitude and torsional compliance are made to test the generality of the model. All experiments showed strong agreement with predicted forces and kinematics, without variation or fitting of model parameters.
Solution of dynamic optimization problems by successive quadratic programming and orthogonal collocation

Abstract Current strategies for optimization of dynamic systems usually require repeated solution of the differential equation model and may therefore be inefficient. This note explores the use of orthogonal collocation to reduce the dynamic optimization problem to an equality constrained nonlinear program (NLP). The NLP is then solved using a strategy that simultaneously converges and optimizes the algebraic model. Using a small example for comparison, significant reductions in computational effort are observed.
Cost of Talking Parents, Healthy Teens: a Worksite-based Intervention to Promote Parent-Adolescent Sexual Health Communication

Purpose To examine the cost and cost-effectiveness of implementing Talking Parents, Healthy Teens, a worksite-based parenting program designed to help parents address sexual health with their adolescent children.
Comparison of two different wavelet-based approaches for target detection in active sonar data

ABSTRACT An important sonar signal processing problem is the detection of targets under highly reverberant conditions. Toaddress this issue two wavelet-based approaches have been developed. Both have been designed to improve the signal-to-reverberation ratio of each sonar channel prior to beamforming. The first method uses the wavelet shrinkage method todenoise the sonar signals. The second method uses a sub-band adaptive filter to estimate the target location in the sonarsignals so that reverberation effects can be easily removed. Both detection methods have proven to be very effective even athigh reverberation levels.Keywords: Wavelet transform, Adaptivefiltering, Target detection. I. INTRODUCTION Detection of targets in sonar data under highly reverberant conditions is a challenging problem. Two wavelet-baseddetection methods have been developed to address this issue. The first method is based on the wavelet shrinkage approach ofDonoho and Johnstone [l]-[4], and the second method is based on the sub-band adaptive filtering approach developed byAzimi-Sadjadi et al [5]-[6]. Both methods use discrete wavelet transform (DWT) of orthogonal and biorthogonal types toremove the effects of reverberation.The organization of this paper is as follows. Section II describes the basic principle of wavelet shrinkage and steps inits implementation. Section III describes the sub-band adaptive filtering process. Section IV presents the test results of the twoalgorithms and a comparison of their performance. Finally, Section V gives the conclusion.
Mixture of new sulfated steroids functions as a migratory pheromone in the sea lamprey

The sea lamprey is an ancient, parasitic fish that invaded the Great Lakes a century ago, where it triggered the collapse of many fisheries1. Like many fishes, this species relies on chemical cues to mediate key aspects of its life, including migration and reproduction2,3. Here we report the discovery of a multicomponent steroidal pheromone that is released by stream-dwelling larval lamprey and guides adults to spawning streams. We isolated three compounds with pheromonal activity (in submilligram quantities from 8,000 l of larval holding water) and deduced their structures. The most important compound contains an unprecedented 1-(3-aminopropyl)pyrrolidin-2-one subunit and is related to squalamine, an antibiotic produced by sharks4. We verified its structure by chemical synthesis; it attracts adult lamprey at very low (subpicomolar) concentrations. The second component is another new sulfated steroid and the third is petromyzonol sulfate, a known lamprey-specific bile acid derivative. This mixture is the first migratory pheromone identified in a vertebrate and is being investigated for use in lamprey control.
Probing the photonic density of states using layer-by-layer self-assembly

The process of spontaneous emission can be dramatically modified by optical microstructures and nanostructures. We have studied the modification of fluorescence dynamics using a variable thickness polymer spacer layer fabricated using layer-by-layer self-assembly with nanometer accuracy. The change in fluorescence lifetime with spacer layer thickness agrees well with theoretical predictions based on the modified photonic density of states (PDOS), and yields consistent values for the fluorophores’ intrinsic fluorescence lifetime and quantum yield near a dielectric as well as a plasmonic interface. Based on this observation, we further demonstrate that self-assembled fluorophores can be used to probe the modified PDOS near optical microstructures and nanostructures.
Large Prandtl number behavior of the Boussinesq system of Rayleigh-Bénard convection

Abstract We establish the validity of the inifinite Prandtl number model as an approximation of the Boussinesq system at large Prandtl number on finite and infinite time interval, as well as in some statistical sense.
IMPLICIT OPTIMAL AND HEURISTIC LABOR STAFFING IN A MULTIOBJECTIVE, MULTILOCATION ENVIRONMENT*

This paper presents a tractable set of integer programming models for the days-off scheduling of a mix of full- and part-time employees working α to β days/week (cycle) in a multiple-objective, multiple-location environment. Previous models were formulated to specifically schedule part-time employees working either two or three days per week. These models were intractable because they required complete employee schedule information. The new models are deemed implicit optimal since they are required to supply only essential information. While the number of variables in previous models is an exponential increasing function of β-α, the size of three of the new models is independent of α and β. The first three models developed here (as in [18]) deal with the trade-offs between idle time, the number of employees required to work at multiple “locations,” and the size of the total labor pool. The inherent flexibility of the implicit modeling approach is illustrated by the presentation of various modifications of the basic models. These modifications permit the use of preference weights on the number of employee work days/week (cycle) or the minimization of payroll costs where differential pay rates exist. These latter models may also be formulated such that idle time is ignored, constrained or minimized. The execution time for the implicit models (on a CDC CYBER 730 computer with commercially available software) averaged well under five seconds on 1200 trial problems for the type of application considered in [18]. A solution was obtained in less than 46 seconds of CPU time for a trial problem which would have required over 1.4 million integer variables with previous models. The availability of optimal solutions was invaluable in the development of two heuristics designed to deal with the trade-offs of [16]. In an experimental analysis a previous heuristic produced results which averaged from 74 to 508 percent above optimum across six experimental conditions. The comparable new heuristic produced results which averaged from 3 to 8 percent above optimum for the same experimental conditions. The paper concludes by developing a framework to integrate the results of this research with the tour scheduling problem and by identifying several other areas for related research.
Teamwork and Communication in Surgical Teams: Implications for Patient Safety

Background As part of a national program in the Department of Veterans Affairs to improve communication within the health-care environment, the Medical Team Training questionnaire was developed to assess organizational culture, communication, teamwork, and awareness of human factors engineering principles. Study Design The Medical Team Training questionnaire was pilot tested with 300 health-care clinicians. The final version of the Medical Team Training questionnaire was administered to an interdisciplinary group of 384 surgical staff members in 6 facilities as part of the Medical Team Training pilot project in the Department of Veterans Affairs. Results The results revealed a pattern of discrepancies among physicians and nurses in which surgeons perceive a stronger organizational culture of safety, better communication, and better teamwork than either nurses or anesthesiologists do. Conclusions The Medical Team Training questionnaire was helpful in identifying hidden problems with communication before formal team training learning sessions, and it will be useful in focusing efforts to improve communication and teamwork in the operating room.
Oral histories in meteoritics and planetary science – XXII: John T. Wasson

In this interview, John Wasson (Fig. 1) describes his childhood and undergraduate years in Arkansas and his desire to pursue nuclear chemistry as a graduate student at MIT. Upon graduation, John spent time in Munich (Technische Hochschule), the Air Force Labs in Cambridge, MA, and a sabbatical at the University of Bern where he developed his interests in meteorites. Upon obtaining his faculty position at UCLA, John established a neutron activation laboratory and began a long series of projects on the bulk compositions of iron meteorites and chondrites. He developed the chemical classification scheme for iron meteorites, gathered a huge set of iron meteorite compositional data with resultant insights into their formation, and documented the refractory and moderately volatile element trends that characterize the chondrites and chondrules. He also spent several years studying field relations and compositions of layered tektites from Southeast Asia, proposing an origin by radiant heating from a mega-Tunguska explosion. Recently, John has explored oxygen isotope patterns in meteorites and their constituents believing the oxygen isotope results to be some of the most important discoveries in cosmochemistry. John also describes the role of postdoctoral colleagues and their important work, his efforts in the reorganization and modernization of the Meteoritical Society, his contributions in reshaping the journal Meteoritics, and how, with UCLA colleagues, he organized two meetings of the society. John Wasson earned the Leonard Medal of the Meteoritical Society in 1992 and the J. Lawrence Smith Medal of the National Academy in 2003. Figure 1. John T. Wasson. Download figure to PowerPoint
An efficient decision procedure for the theory of rational order

Abstract In this paper we present a decision procedure for the theory of the rational numbers with the relation
Numerical simulation of flame propagation in constant volume chambers

Combustion of premixed gases inside a closed chamber is computed using a thin flame model at high Damkohler number. The burning velocity is taken as a function of the thermodynamics of the reacting mixture and the flame front curvature. Gas motion due to expansion across the flame is computed assuming an inviscid flow at low Mach number. Results show that the flame is unstable, developing wrinkles which grow into deep indentation along the front. A stabilizing mechanism associated with curvature damps small scales and moderates the rate of growth of perturbation. However, long wavelength perturbations survive and affect the later stages of burning Numerical results are compared with experimental data on flame propagation in a quiescent mixture inside a circular chamber, initiated by central or side ignition sources. Using recent measurement of the Markstein length, good agreement is obtained for the first case. Some deviation is seen in the second case due to heat losse when the flame propagates close to the chamber walls. The model is applied to study the effect of swirl on the rate of burning and pressure rise.
Variable diagnostic approach to suspected pulmonary embolism in the ED of a major academic tertiary care center.

Abstract The purpose of this study is to retrospectively examine the patterns of diagnostic modality utilization in the setting of suspected acute pulmonary embolism (PE) by physicians in the emergency department (ED) of a major academic tertiary care center. All patients (n=180) with a hospital discharge diagnosis of PE that were admitted through the ED during 1997 to 1999 were included. Overall test frequency and distribution, ancillary testing used when the initial ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan or spiral computed tomography (sCT) angiogram was nondiagnostic, concordance of V/Q and sCT, and sensitivities of D-dimer assays, arterial blood gas analysis, and deep venous imaging were assessed. There was a wide discrepancy in practice, most pronounced when first-line radiological studies were nondiagnostic. There was a poor correlation of PE detection between sCT and V/Q. D-dimer assay, arterial blood gas analysis, and deep venous imaging are insensitive tests for PE, and “gold standard” pulmonary angiography is rarely used. (Am J Emerg Med 2002;20:5-9. Copyright © 2002 by W.B. Saunders Company)
Genetics and mechanisms of imidacloprid resistance in house flies.

Abstract Imidacloprid is the most widely used neonicotinoid insecticide against house flies, which are major pests at animal production facilities worldwide. However, cases of both physiological and behavior resistance have been reported. Recently, physiological resistance to imidacloprid was found in the United States (California and Florida). However, no studies have been undertaken to characterize this resistance in house flies from the United States. Three imidacloprid selections of a strain originally collected from Florida increased the level of resistance, ultimately resulting in a strain that had 2300-fold resistance in females and 130-fold in males. Imidacloprid resistance was not overcome with piperonyl butoxide (PBO) suggesting that resistance is not due to detoxification by cytochrome P450s. Resistance was mapped to autosomes 3 and 4. There was ⩾100-fold cross-resistance to acetamiprid and dinotefuran, but no cross-resistance to spinosad. The resistance in this imidacloprid selected population was unstable and declined over a period of several months. The significance of these results to management of imidacloprid resistance in the field, and potential mechanisms of resistance involved, are discussed.
Ultrastructure of cell division in the fusiform cells of the vascular cambium of Robinia pseudoacacia

The ultrastructure of periclinally dividing fusiform cells was studied in the vascular cambium of Robinia pseudoacacia. Fusiform cell division begins in April at Madison, Wisconsin, when the cambial cells still have many characteristics of a dormant cambium. Soon afterward, the cambial cells acquire the appearance typical of an active cambium. Sequential phases of the microtubule cycle were documented: cortical microtubules bordering the cell wall during interphase, perinuclear microtubules preceding formation of the mitotic spindle, spindle microtubules, and phragmoplast microtubules. A preprophase band of microtubules was not encountered. An extended phragmosome was not encountered in periclinally dividing fusiform cells. During cytokinesis, the phragmosome is represented by a broad cytoplasmic plate which precedes the developing phragmoplast and cell plate as they migrate toward the ends of the cell.
The effect of dislocation drag on the stress-strain behavior of F.C.C. metals

Abstract The introduction of viscous drag into a simple thermally activated dislocation model for the low temperature plastic deformation of f.c.c. metals leads to some surprising predictions about their stress-strain behavior. One effect of dislocation drag is to produce a region of tensile instability at small strains for any strain rate. At sufficiently high strain rates there is no region of tensile stability. However, computation of a decreased strain for tensile instability at strain rates greater than 103 s−1, in opposition to experimental measurements, provides evidence that the strong upturn reported for the flow stress of copper is not caused by dislocation drag. The likely explanation is an enhanced rate of dislocation generation.
Evaluation, development and verification of field methods for rapid, on-site determination of appropriate chemical protective clothing

Abstract Personnel involved in chemical spill emergency response and hazardous waste site activities often have the need to make on-site decisions regarding the
Hunger vs thirst in the burro (Equus asinus)

Abstract The burro ( Equus asinus ) can withstand deprivation of both food and water for up to 48 hours even in summer heat. This ability depends in part on his capacious cecum and colon where food is stored and is digested by bacterial action for hours after his last meal. In eight such periods of deprivation maximum temperatures ranged from 35 to 45°C and estimated increases in osmotic pressure in two burros ranged up to 17%. Given free choice of hay and water at the end of deprivation they chose hay always when estimated increase in osmotic pressure was less than 10%. In one case the second 24-hour period included an eight-hour walk. In this case the estimated increase in osmotic pressure was 17% in both and both chose water first. Their ability to eat dry hay after long periods of dehydration is essential to their survival in hot deserts where they can graze for 24 hours before returning to a water source.
The diagnostic value of the duodenal biopsy: A clinico-pathologic analysis of 28,000 patients

Background Duodenal biopsies are frequently obtained to investigate malabsorption, diarrhoea, and aneamia. The proportion of patients who have duodenal biopsies and their diagnostic yield are unclear. Aims To determine what proportion of patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy in a private setting has duodenal biopsies and to evaluate the diagnostic yield relative to clinical indications and endoscopic findings. Methods Records of patients who had duodenal biopsies diagnosed at a United States gastrointestinal pathology laboratory in a single year were analysed. Results 28,210 patients with and 75,175 without duodenal biopsies were studied. Duodenal biopsy patients were younger (52 years versus 58 years, p < 0.001) and more likely to be female (OR 1.46; p < 0.0001); 87% of children and 27% of adults had duodenal biopsies. Suspicion of malabsorption or sprue, diarrhoea, aneamia, and weight loss were strong predictors of duodenal biopsy. More than 80% of patients had normal duodenum, except those biopsied for sprue, 64% of whom had normal findings. Marsh II–IIIc lesions were diagnosed in 23% of patients with suspected sprue, but in 3.0% of those with diarrhoea, weight loss, or aneamia, and in 1.5% of patients with dyspepsia or GERD. Conclusions A clinical suspicion of sprue produces the highest yield of histopathologic abnormalities; women are biopsied more often than men despite having less duodenal pathology.
Frequency-Domain Signal Processing for Chromatic Dispersion Equalization and Carrier Frequency Offset Estimation in Optical Coherent Receivers

Frequency-domain equalization (FDE) and spectrum-based optical carrier frequency offset estimation (FOE) are presented. These signal processing operations are both carried out in frequency domain and suitable for coherent optical communications.
Pseudoelastic effects in CuZn single crystals

Abstract Mechanical properties associated with pseudoelastic phenomena in CuZn single crystals have been studied and characterized. As a result it is possible to clarify superelastic properties and to report on a new rubber-like behavior. Two-surface analysis at a range of temperatures above Ms demonstrated that the habit plane and shape strain direction of the stress-induced martensitic variant were those associated with the lowest Schmid factor of the 24 possible variants. The magnitudes of the measured strains were identical to the resolved theoretical values calculated from the phenomenological theory. The influence of temperature, strain rate, and the amount of superelastic cycling above Ms was observed. The onset of ‘advanced deformation’ (by either the nucleation of reversible αs martensite or plastic flow) caused modification in the pseudoelastic loops of the stress-strain curves. ‘Training’ of specimens above Ms caused the nucleation of the same variant when cooling to near Ms. However, for certain orientations of the stress-induced martensite (SIM) single crystals further cooling caused a subsequent transformation of the SIM into a (2, 0, 10)9R twin as the temperature approached M ƒ . The twinned single crystal of martensite was observed to behave in a rubber-like fashion on load cycling below M ƒ . The rubber-like behavior is due to twin boundary movement of the trained SIM variant and its (2, 0, 10)9R twin. Magnitudes of the rubber-like strain have been measured and compared to the predicted theoretical values.
Contractualism, Politics, and Morality

Rawls developed a contractualist theory of social justice and Scanlon attempted to extend the Rawlsian framework to develop a theory of rightness, or morality more generally. I argue that there are some good reasons to adopt a contractualist theory of social justice, but that it is a mistake to adopt a contractualist theory of rightness. I begin by illustrating the major shared features of Scanlon and Rawls’ theories. I then show that the justification for these features in Rawls’ theory, the centrality of cooperative fairness to social justice, cannot be used to defend their use in Scanlon’s. Finally, I argue that Scanlon has not provided an adequate alternative defense of these features, and show that they create problems when contractualists try to explain major features of our common-sense morality.