cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pseudounitary freedom in the operator-sum representation

A dynamical map is a map that takes one density operator to another. Such a map can be written in an operator-sum representation (OSR) by using a spectral decomposition. The method of construction applies to general maps, which need not be completely positive. The OSR is not unique; there is freedom to choose a different set of operators in the OSR, yet still obtain the same map. Here, we show that, whereas the freedom for completely positive maps is unitary, the freedom for maps that are not necessarily completely positive is pseudounitary.
Interest in Sports and Belief in Sports Superstitions

51 nonathletes, students (45 women) at a medium-sized southern university, were administered a survey containing three scales: an Interest in Sports Scale, a Belief in Sports Superstitions Scale, and Tobacyk and Milford's Paranormal Belief Scale (1983). Scores on the Interest in Sports Scale were significantly correlated with scores on the Belief in Sports Superstitions Scale, which measured adherence specifically to sports superstitions, but not with scores on the Paranormal Belief Scale, which measured a wide variety of irrational beliefs. Thus, participants with high interest in sports showed a tendency to subscribe to the type of irrational belief associated specifically with sports. Scores on the Belief in Sports Superstitions Scale were positively correlated with scores on the Paranormal Belief Scale.
Drivers of microbial respiration and net N mineralization at the continental scale

Abstract The dominant pools of C and N in the terrestrial biosphere are in soils, and understanding what factors control the rates at which these pools cycle is essential in understanding soil CO 2 production and N availability. Many previous studies have examined large scale patterns in decomposition of C and N in plant litter and organic soils, but few have done so in mineral soils, and fewer have looked beyond ecosystem specific, regional, or gradient-specific drivers. In this study, we examined the rates of microbial respiration and net N mineralization in 84 distinct mineral soils in static laboratory incubations. We examined patterns in C and N pool sizes, microbial biomass, and process rates by vegetation type (grassland, shrubland, coniferous forest, and deciduous/broadleaf forest). We also modeled microbial respiration and net N mineralization in relation to soil and site characteristics using structural equation modeling to identify potential process drivers across soils. While we did not explicitly investigate the influence of soil organic matter quality, microbial community composition, or clay mineralogy on microbial process rates in this study, our models allow us to put boundaries on the unique explanatory power these characteristics could potentially provide in predicting respiration and net N mineralization. Mean annual temperature and precipitation, soil C concentration, microbial biomass, and clay content predicted 78% of the variance in microbial respiration, with 61% explained by microbial biomass alone. For net N mineralization, only 33% of the variance was explained, with mean annual precipitation, soil C and N concentration, and clay content as the potential drivers. We suggest that the high R 2 for respiration suggests that soil organic matter quality, microbial community composition, and clay mineralogy explain at most 22% of the variance in respiration, while they could explain up to 67% of the variance in net N mineralization.
A farm irrigation system (FIS) model

A mathematical model was developed to simulate farm irrigation systems (FIS). Open borders, closed borders, and/or furrows may constitute such systems. The model simulates the entire irrigation cycle of these systems. The volume balance method and some simple flow profile curves form the basis of the FIS model. Data from 25 vegetated and nonvegetated borders and six furrows were utilized to calibrate and verify the model. The test results showed that the model was accurate with less than 8% error in prediction of any of the phases of the irrigation cycle. These preliminary tests indicate that the FIS model is reasonably accurate for engineering applications.
Stability of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Frozen Mussel Tissue

Abstract The stability of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in frozen mussel tissue (stored at -80 °C and -120 °C was assessed by analyzing samples of SRM 1974 and SRM 1974a, Organics in Mussel Tissue (Mytilus edulis), since the initial certification analyses. Results of analyses of SRM 1974 and SRM 1974a after 10 years and 6 years of storage, respectively, indicate that the PAH concentrations have not changed. Comparison of results from the analyses of frozen versus freeze-dried mussel tissue samples indicate significant losses of the more volatile PAH such as naphthalene and methylnaphthalenes during the freeze-drying process.
A Cultural Analysis of the Experiment and an Experimental Analysis of Culture

What is it that one can and cannot learn from experiments? The present paper addresses this question from the perspective of cultural psychology. The first half of the paper examines implicit constructions of reality – like individualism, assumptions about the purity of the experimental context and the nature of mind, and the meaning of empirical– that constitute the culture of experimental social psychology. The second half of the paper illustrates an experimental approach to the study of culture with an example from a program of research on enemyship. Overall, the paper suggests that experimental methods may be best suited for arguments about proximal cause, but less appropriate for arguments about the distal causes of events in the everyday world. Rather than advocate that social psychologists abandon the experiment, a cultural psychology perspective suggests the reflexive use of experimental methods in conjunction with multiple techniques of empirical observation.
Reconstruction of dynamical systems from interspike intervals.

Attractor reconstruction from interspike interval (ISI) data is described, in rough analogy with Taken's theorem for attractor reconstruction from time series. Assuming a generic integrate-and-fire model coupling the dynamical system to the spike train, there is a one-to-one correspondence between the system states and interspike interval vectors of sufficiently large dimension. The correspondence has an important implication: interspike intervals can be forecast from past history. We show that deterministically driven ISI series can be distinguished from stochastically driven ISI series on the basis of prediction error.
An improved methodology for paddy field measurement using LANDSAT ETM

Farmland measurements and crop yields are two main scientific aspects of precision agriculture. Farmland development at Heilongjiang Province, China has been rapidly expanding since 1950's. Meanwhile, there has been a trend that dry farmlands are converted to paddy field since 1990's. Therefore, there is a demand for accurate updated information on the newly developed and expanded paddy field area. The objective of this research was to develop an operational approach and improve the existing methods for assessing paddy field area that would facilitate remote sensing based algorithms for measuring paddy field areas at county-level. LANDSAT ETM+ offers better spatial resolution over other sensors such as Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). Four granules of LANDSAT ETM+ dataset were acquired for the study, and this research describes the methodologies used for processing the data and their functions in developing the classification of paddy field area. The software tools used for this research are ENVI and ArcGIS. The results suggest the methods that can be used for operational application of LANDSAT ETM+ for classification at county-level, and the measurement accuracy was approximately 87% of the validated ground truth data.
131‐I therapy for Advanced, Unresectable Thyroid Tumors in Dogs

Introduction: Greater than 50% of dogs with thyroid tumors present with surgically unresectable disease for which external beam radiotherapy has been reported to prolong survival. The success of 131I for control of thyroid tumors in cats and in humans suggests such therapy may also play a role in the management of canine thyroid cancer. Methods: Thirty-nine dogs with WHO stage II/III (invasive or ectopic; n = 32) or IV (metastatic; n = 7) thyroid tumors were treated with 131I alone. Changes in thyroid function, 99MTc-pertechnetate (99MTc) scintigraphic changes, and tumor response were recorded. Dogs with ventral cervical tumors were evaluated for feasibility of surgical resection following 131I. Results: Median overall survival was 839 days and 366 days for dogs with stage II/III and stage IV tumors, respectively. Thyroid hormone status, site and surgical resection were not associated with outcome in dogs with stage II/III tumors. Three dogs developed severe bone marrow suppression. Conclusions: These findings suggest 131I should be investigated more thoroughly in dogs with thyroid tumors not considered surgical candidates to more clearly characterize the indications for therapy and followup recommendations. 131I dosimetry in dogs with thyroid tumors remains problematic. Administration of 131I is currently based on empiric recommendations and, in general, the treatment is well tolerated although additional studies are indicated to optimize response and minimize toxicity.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone-induced calcium signaling in clonal pituitary gonadotrophs.

In agonist-stimulated clonal pituitary gonadotrophs (alpha T3-1 cells), cytoplasmic calcium ([Ca2+]i) exhibited rapid and prominent peak increases, followed by lower, but sustained, elevations for up to 15 min. The [Ca2+]i response to GnRH was rapidly inhibited by prior addition of a potent GnRH antagonist. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+ the initial peak [Ca2+]i response was only slightly decreased, but the prolonged increase in [Ca2+]i was abolished, indicating that the peak is derived largely from intracellular calcium mobilization and the sustained phase from Ca2+ influx. Application of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase blocker thapsigargin caused progressive and dose-dependent elevation of [Ca2+]i and decreased the peak amplitude of the GnRH-induced Ca2+ response. On the other hand, addition of dihydropyridine calcium channel antagonists before or after GnRH treatment prevented or terminated the plateau phase, respectively, consistent with entry of Ca2+ through L-type voltage-sensitive Ca2...
Beat frequency heating of a magnetized plasma by circularly polarized microwaves

The mixing of two parallel or antiparallel beams of circularly polarized microwaves propagating in the extraordinary mode along a uniform, static magnetic field is examined. Resonant excitation of longitudinal electron plasma waves at the beat frequency is found to enhance the microwave absorption. An analysis is based on Maxwell's equations and the continuity and momentum equations for the electron gas with both collision and temperature effects included. Formulae for the average power absorption density and the absorption efficiency are derived. The results of a numerical study of the coupling constant and the efficiency are presented.
Antiplatelet agents for secondary prevention of stroke

Patients with recent ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) face a high risk of recurrent stroke as well as an increased risk of myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death. In the absence of a clearly established indication for long-term anticoagulation, such as atrial fibrillation, antiplatelet agents are the antithrombotic drugs of choice for preventing recurrent vascular events. For many years, aspirin (ASA) has been the first-line therapy for patients at high risk of vascular ischemic events. Two large clinical trials have established the superiority of the combination of ASA and extended-release dipyridamole (ASA/ERDP) over ASA alone in patients with recent noncardioembolic ischemic stroke or TIA. Clopidogrel, another antiplatelet agent, is a reasonable alternative to ASA, but its superiority to ASA in patients with a history of stroke has not been as clearly established. The combination of ASA and clopidogrel, which is effective in patients with acute coronary syndrome, has not been shown to be either effective or safe, compared with either agent alone, in stroke patients, although there may be some benefit to this combination in patients with acute TIA. The results from a large randomized trial comparing ASA/ERDP with clopidogrel, anticipated soon, will further assist clinicians in choosing among available antiplatelet agents.
Methodological Considerations Relevant to Epidemiology Studies of Silica and Lung Cancer

Abstract The relation between occupational silica exposure and lung cancer has been addressed in numerous epidemiologic studies, especially during the past decade. Despite the considerable attention given to this topic, no scientific consensus has been reached regarding the potential carcinogenicity of silica in humans. The principal reasons for uncertainty are inadequacies of exposure assessment and incomplete control of confounding from other workplace agents and from cigarette smoking. This article is a review of the biases that have hindered the interpretation of epidemiologic research on silica and lung cancer. Exposure assessment is discussed in terms of the completeness and validity of exposure quantification for silica and other potentially relevant workplace exposures. The advantages and limitations of inferring exposure levels from radiographic evidence of pulmonary fibrosis are also considered. Confounding bias, from cigarette smoking and workplace exposures other than silica (e.g., radon), is ...
The Keane PTSD Scale extracted from the MMPI: Sensitivity and specificity with Vietnam veterans

A study was conducted to further investigate whether the Keane Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Scale of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) can be employed as a separate instrument administered outside the context of the full MMPI. A group of Vietnam combat veterans with diagnosed PTSD and two comparison groups of veterans without PTSD (Vietnam combat and era veterans) were diagnosed by clinical interviews. Over 84% of the 64 veterans in the study were accurately classified by the Keane PTSD Scale into their original diagnostic groups. Excellent test sensitivity was demonstrated, with 90% of combat veterans with PTSD being properly classified by the Keane PTSD Scale when the recommended cutoff score of 30 was utilized. The clinical and research implications are discussed.
He i λ10830 Absorption in Metal‐Poor Red Giants: Probing Fast Chromospheric Outflows*

We present the results of a search for near-IR chromospheric He i absorption in 10 metal-poor red giants using high-resolution spectra obtained with NIRSPEC on Keck II. Four of these red giants are in the field, and six are in the globular cluster M13. Two of the field stars and one of the cluster stars show evidence for He i absorption that is consistent with chromospheric outflow velocities ranging from 30 to 140 km s–1. If identified with a wind, the velocity found in the M13 red giant IV-15 (30 km s–1) is comparable to the escape velocity of the cluster core, suggesting that such winds may be effective in clearing out the interstellar medium of globular clusters. Absorption is confined to stars with Teff 4600 K and MV fainter than –1.5. Since previous studies have found Hα and Ca ii K2 emission line profiles indicative of winds in metal-poor giants brighter than this limit, the mechanism responsible for He i absorption in metal-poor red giants apparently operates less effectively in the cooler and brighter stars. On the other hand, the He i line extends the detection of mass outflows further down the giant branch of metal-poor stars than the Hα observations.
Effects of sterilization and decontamination on hydrazine propulsionsystems.

Catalyst poisoning and hydrazine material compatibility during hydrazine propulsion systems sterilization and decontamination
Personal unity in dying: alternative conceptions of the meaning of health

Death is a universal phenomenon. In the health care system, however, it is regarded as unfortunate and catastrophic. Death is perceived as the extreme end of a continuum whose opposite end is health. In nursing practice, through the application of nursing diagnosis and nursing process, dying is treated as a procedural problem. Rarely is dying treated as part of the experience of living, characterized by the meanings assigned by the individual to the event. The purpose of the study was to describe one person's dying experience as a personal expression of the meaning of health.
Real-Time Measurements of Dissolved Oxygen Inside Live Cells by Organically Modified Silicate Fluorescent Nanosensors

Optical PEBBLE (probes encapsulated by biologically localized embedding) nanosensors have been developed for dissolved oxygen using organically modified silicate (ormosil) nanoparticles as a matrix. The ormosil nanoparticles are prepared via a sol−gel-based process, which includes the formation of core particles with phenyltrimethoxysilane as a precursor followed by the formation of a coating layer with methyltrimethoxysilane as a precursor. The average diameter of the resultant particles is 120 nm. These sensors incorporate the oxygen-sensitive platinum porphyrin dye as an indicator and an oxygen-insensitive dye as a reference for ratiometric intensity measurement. Two pairs of indicator dye and reference dye, respectively, platinum(II) octaethylporphine and 3,3‘-dioctadecyloxacarbocyanine perchlorate, and platinum(II) octaethylporphine ketone and octaethylporphine, were used. The sensors have excellent sensitivity with an overall quenching response of 97%, as well as excellent linearity of the Stern−Vol...
Ultrasonic attenuation measurements in phospholipid dispersions.

Abstract Ultrasonic attenuation measurements have been used to show that relaxation processes occur in the time range 1 · 10 −7 1 · 10 −8 sec in dispersions of phosphatidylserine and, to a lesser extent, in phosphatidylcholine dispersions. The ultrasonic attenuation is modified by changes in phospholipid concentration, pH, cholesterol and divalent metal ion content. A quantitative analysis of the data is not possible, but the most probable mechanisms for the relaxation processes are intraliposome conformational changes and/or solvation equilibria.
Multiphoton ionization in superintense, high-frequency laser fields. I. General developments.

This is the first of two papers studying multiphoton ionization (MPI) in superintense, high-frequency laser fields. They are based on a general iteration scheme in increasing powers of the inverse frequency. To lowest order in the frequency, i.e., the high-frequency limit, the atom was shown to be stable against decay by MPI, though distorted. To next order in the iteration, an expression for the MPI amplitude was obtained. In the present paper, we present general developments from this expression, valid for arbitrary polarization, binding potential, intensity, and initial state. First we analyze the symmetry of the angular distributions of photoelectrons determined by this expression for the MPI amplitude. This expression can explain the asymmetries in the angular distributions of photoelectrons occurring in the case of elliptic polarization that were recently reported in experiments. In the radiation regime where our theory applies these asymmetries are, however, weak. In certain instances our theory yields asymmetries in cases where lowest-order perturbation theory (LOPT) fails to predict them. We prove that at low intensities our expression for the MPI amplitude yields results in agreement with LOPT evaluated at high frequencies. An important part of this paper consists, however, of the derivation of an alternativemore » form for the MPI amplitude of atomic hydrogen, which is substantially simpler, though somewhat less accurate. We study the consequences of this simplified expression for the case of linearly polarized fields in the following paper (Phys. Rev. A 44, xxxx (1991)).« less
Learning at the Knowledge Level

When Newell introduced the concept of the knowledge level as a useful level of description for computer systems, he focused on the representation of knowledge. This paper applies the knowledge level notion to the problem of knowledge acquisition. Two interesting issues arise. First, some existing machine learning programs appear to be completely static when viewed at the knowledge level. These programs improve their performance without changing their ‘knowledge.’ Second, the behavior of some other machine learning programs cannot be predicted or described at the knowledge level. These programs take unjustified inductive leaps. The first programs are called symbol level learning (SLL) programss the second, nondeductive knowledge level learning (NKLL) programs. The paper analyzes both of these classes of learning programs and speculates on the possibility of developing coherent theories of each. A theory of symbol level learning is sketched, and some reasons are presented for believing that a theory of NKLL will be difficult to obtain.
Peyer's patches: morphologic studies.

Abstract The aggregates of lymphoid tissue associated with the intestine represent a large fraction of the total lymphoid tissue of rabbits (1) and presumably have an important immunological function. The importance of intestinal plasma cells in the synthesis of IgA is established, but the IgA synthesizing cells seem to be diffusely scattered through the lamina propria rather than existing in the follicle-like aggregates (2). It has been suggested that the aggregates are responsible for the local production of IgG and IgM antibodies against the bacterial and food antigen present in the gut, but there has been some difficulty in experimentally substantiating this concept (3, 4). Some investigators have proposed that the gut-associated lymphoid tissues have a central function in the ontogeny of the immune response. The lymphoid system of birds is considered to consist of two components. These are ( a ) thymic-dependent lymphocytes, and ( b ) a system of plasma cells and germinal centers dependent on the bursa of Fabricius (5). Cells under thymic control are thought to be responsible for cellular immunity (6), and bursal oriented tissues for immunoglobulin synthesis (7, 8). Lymphoepithelial differentiation in both the thymus and the bursa of Fabricius are believed to be governed by mesenchymal induction (9, 10), though this has been questioned (11). Morphologic and phylogenetic studies have suggested that the rabbit equivalent of the avian bursa is a lymphoepithelial structure in the intestinal tract (12–14). The development of the appendix and Peyer's patches are not dependent on the presence of the thymus (15, 16). Surgical removal of gut-associated lymphoid centers in rabbits has resulted in a condition resembling bursectomy and sublethal irradiation in birds (17, 18) suggesting that the Peyer's patch may be the rabbit equivalent of the avian bursa. The division of lymphoid organs into “central” or “peripheral” categories is generally based on a number of nonimmunologic criteria among which are morphology, the stage of development at birth, and the patterns of cellular repopulation. On immunologic grounds, central organs are considered to be essential in the genesis of immune reactivity, but not to participate directly in the response. There is a paucity of information on the morphology of Peyer's patches, and the evidence for their direct participation in the immune response is conflicting. The investigations reported in this paper were undertaken to provide information on the structure and ultrastructure, the histochemistry, and the cellular kinetics of rabbit Peyer's patches. We have included tissues from young and mature rabbits and rabbits which had received repeated injections of antigens in the hope of disclosing differences among the groups which might shed some light on the function of the organs. In view of the specialized role proposed for the overlying epithelium, we were particularly interested in characteristics which distinguish it from the general gut epithelium. The electron microscope has also permitted a closer inspection of the anatomical relationships between the cells.
Study on resistive coupling interference of Operation of Disconnecting Switch in GIS substation

Operation of Disconnecting Switch (DS) and Circuit Breaker (CB) can produce very fast transient overvoltage (VFTO) in GIS. During the transmission process of VFTO in GIS, as the backflow route of VFTO, corresponding high frequency interference can be induced on the shell of GIS. High-frequency interference's entering into grounding network can cause transient ground potential rise (TGPR), resulting in resistance interference. The paper focuses on the transmission characteristics of high frequency interference caused by VFTO, and analyzes factors affecting interference voltage transmission through changing grounding network parameters. For the typical grounding network structure and actual grounding network model in a substation, transmission factors affecting interference voltage in the grounding network are analyzed through changing grounding network parameters to discuss the interference caused by DS operation on GIS substation via resistance coupling mode.
Randomized clinical trials of weight reduction in nonhypertensive persons.

Abstract Since 1987, four randomized controlled clinical trials with 872 nonhypertensive subjects have produced results on weight-reducing interventions, involving decreased caloric intake and/or increased expenditure, for effects on blood pressure (BP). The Hypertension Prevention Trial maintained a 3.5-kg net weight loss through 36 months with intake reduction alone. This program decreased BP by 2.4/1.8 mm Hg (systolic/diastolic) compared to controls, but both weight loss and blood pressure changes were smaller when combined with decreased sodium intake. A Stanford University trial achieved weight losses of 7.4 and 5.1 kg over 12 months with diet and exercise, respectively. Effects on clinic BP were in the range of 1.5 to 3.0 mm Hg and did not differ by intervention approach. The sole trial in children, conducted at University of Michigan, found similar weight loss (about 7 kg) and BP effects from limiting caloric intake over 20 weeks, regardless of inclusion of an exercise program; the latter did, however, result in greater reductions in percent body fat, heart rate, and serum insulin levels The Primary Prevention of Hypertension trial tested a multifactor intervention including reductions in weight (mean, 2.7 kg), sodium and alcohol intake, and increased physical activity. During a 5-year period, clinic BP was reduced by 2.0/1.9 mm Hg, and the incidence of hypertension, by 52%. It is concluded that weight loss, however achieved, lowers BP in overweight nonhypertensive persons, and probably can contribute substantially to reducing the incidence of hypertension. Whether there are independent effects additive to weight loss from increasing physical activity and reducing sodium intake remains unknown.
Molecular Basis of Etiological Implications in Alzheimer’s Disease: Focus on Neuroinflammation

Significant bodies of evidences have shown different mechanisms known to be the etiological cause of Alzheimer's disease (AD) involving amyloid-beta protein accumulation, chronic inflammatory reactions, oxidative stress, proteasome inhibition, and high-cholesterol level, but the presize etiology of AD still remains enigmatic. Recent studies indicate that these mechanisms seem to be interlinked, and neuroinflammation emerges as a major regulatory and commen factor in all these mechanisms. In amyloid-beta protein, induced neurodegenerative hypothesis of AD inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ, TNF-α, interleukin (IL)-1α plays an important role in the progression of the disease. In cholesterol induced hypothesis liver X receptor mediated IL-4 also plays a major role in the progression of neuroinflammation. Notably, Omi and HtrA2 proteases play very important functions in neuronal dysfunction, which may lead to neurodegeneration. Further at genetic level, alterations in the genes occur especially in APP, PSEN1, PSEN2, APO E(e4), ADAM12, and SH3MD1 which mediate neurodegeneration. Additionaly, The role of SP-1, NF-κB, and BCAE-1 is critical in the regulation of neuroinflammation-associated disease pathogenesis. All together, in this review, we discus the importance of neuroinflammatory mediators and their mechanistic role in the process of AD neurodegeneration.
Downsizing Survival: The Experience of Work and Organizational Commitment

Although downsizing has become a common feature of American workplaces, the existing literature has focused on the effects of how downsizing is conducted, rather than considering how downsizing affects the experience of work for downsizing survivors. Using data from the 1997 National Employee Survey and structural modeling techniques, this study compares downsizing survivors and workers unaffected by downsizing on a variety of sociodemographic indicators, job characteristics, and organizational environment measures in order to explain the lower levels of organizational commitment among survivors. The model in which downsizing survival was directly and indirectly associated with commitment was generally supported. Survivors reported less commitment than unaffected workers. In addition, downsizing survival was positively associated with job-related stress and negatively associated with perceived organizational support, which translated into survivors’ lower levels of commitment. This research suggests that organizations that downsize should consider ways to redesign work processes so as to reduce job-related stress and should engage in organizational practices that demonstrate organizational support for surviving employees.
Tool path planning for compound surfaces in spray forming processes

Spray forming is an emerging manufacturing process. The automated tool planning for this process is a nontrivial problem, especially for geometry-complicated parts consisting of multiple freeform surfaces. Existing tool planning approaches are not able to deal with this kind of compound surface. This paper proposes a tool-path planning approach which optimizes the tool motion performance and the thickness uniformity. There are two steps in this approach. The first step partitions the part surface into flat patches based on the topology and normal directions. The second step determines the tool movement patterns and the sweeping directions for each flat patch. Based on the above two steps, optimal tool paths can be calculated. Experimental tests are carried out on automotive body parts and the results validate the proposed approach. Note to Practitioners-This paper was motivated by the problem of automatically planning tool paths for spray forming using Programmable Powdered Preforming Process (P4) technology. However, the proposed approach can be applied to other surface manufacturing applications such as spray painting, spray cleaning, rapid tooling, etc. Existing tool planning approaches are not able to handle complicated, multi-patch surfaces. This paper proposes a methodology to partition complicated surfaces into easy-to-handle patches and generate tool paths with optimized thickness uniformity and tool motion performance. We tested the approach using simulation on sample automotive body parts and proved its feasibility. However, this approach requires that the parts to be sprayed belong to the sheet-metal type so that the part geometry can be analyzed on a plane. In our future research, we will run physical tests on actual parts and investigate the deposition effects on the thickness uniformity.
Preserving Indian Culture: Shaman Schools and Ethno-Education in the Vaupes, Colombia

Tukanoans in the Vaupes region of southeastern Colombia have been mobilizing to preserve their culture and history for some 20 years.' This article examines the reactions of a group of Tukanoan primary schoolteachers to a specific instance of cultural revitalization efforts: an attempt to preserve local indigenous medicine using Western pedagogical methods. Although the events this paper discusses occurred among Indians in a tropical forest region in the Northwest Amazon, the issues are similar to those encountered by many other Indian communities which-influenced by the pan-Indian movement now stretching the length of the Western Hemisphere-are attempting to strengthen and renew their culture in highly politicized circumstances.
Clinical findings and treatment of shear mouth in two horses associated with ipsilateral painful dental disease

Summary Shear mouth is a rare and poorly described dental condition observed in horses. This report outlines 2 cases of unilateral shear mouth with ipsilateral painful dental disease. Both cases are young horses diagnosed with idiopathic 409 cheek tooth fractures associated with shear angles on the 100 and 400 cheek teeth rows. Corrective odontoplasty was performed in both cases to correct the cheek tooth occlusal surface angle following exodontia of the diseased molars.
Psychophysical scaling: A conditional defense of R=f(I)

Psychophysical scales can be constructed under suitable restrictions from appropriate data, but they still do not justify privileged internal sensations.
Analytic performance prediction of feature-aided global nearest neighbour algorithm in dense target scenarios

An analytic performance prediction method for the feature-aided global nearest neighbour tracking algorithm in multi-target tracking (MTT) scenarios is proposed. The approach serves as an alternative to the costly Monte Carlo simulation method. In MTT, evaluation of interference among multiple targets remains a crucial issue on tracking performance study. This issue is investigated in dense target scenarios with feature information and unrestrictive motion. Analytic expressions are developed for tracking performance in terms of the probability of correct association and estimation accuracy. Feature information of targets is incorporated in the formulation which provides us an insight on how the tracking performance is impacted by features. In the derivations, a series of simplification assumptions are made and the results are not intended to be used directly in practical tracking applications. The major contribution of the paper is to provide a theoretical exploration and a methodology for analytic performance prediction of MTT.
Isolation and assay of insect hormones

Neurohormonal Techniques in Insects. Edited by Thomas A. Miller. Pp.282. ISBN 3-540-90451-4. (Springer-Verlag: 1981.) DM79, $46.70.
Optofluidic Transport in Liquid Core Photonic Crystal Fibers

We describe optofluidic transport of polystyrene spheres in liquid core photonic crystal fibers (LC-PCFs). The collection of particles into distinct bands is demonstrated and we report the first measurements of the velocity distribution.
Observability index selection for robot calibration

This paper relates 5 observability indexes for robot calibration to the "alphabet optimalities" from the experimental design literature. These 5 observability indexes are shown to be the upper and lower bounds of one another. All observability indexes are proved to be equivalent when the design is optimal after a perfect column scaling. It is shown that when the goal is to minimize the variance of the parameters, D-optimality is the best criterion. When the goal is to minimize the uncertainty of the end-effector position, E-optimality is the best criterion. It is proved that G-optimality is equivalent to E-optimality for exact design.
AKAP signalling complexes: focal points in space and time

Multiprotein signalling networks create focal points of enzyme activity that disseminate the intracellular action of many hormones and neurotransmitters. Accordingly, the spatio-temporal activation of protein kinases and phosphatases is an important factor in controlling where and when phosphorylation events occur. Anchoring proteins provide a molecular framework that orients these enzymes towards selected substrates. A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) are signal-organizing molecules that compartmentalize various enzymes that are regulated by second messengers.
Developing a class of sequential function charts from Petri nets

A fundamental problem in specifying control software is that the interaction of inputs and outputs becomes difficult to tract as the size of the control problem grows. This has led to a great deal of interest in graphical programming languages (GPL), such as the sequential function chart (SFC) or the GRAFCET approach to program documentation. These languages are based on Petri nets. In this paper we are interested in defining criteria for developing a GPL macrostep program structure from a Petri net specification of a discrete event system. This work is related to earlier work in which a methodology was developed for converting ladder logic programs to Petri nets. The combination of results is aimed at providing a methodology for automatic stepwise transformation of programs among the programming disciplines of ladder logic Petri nets and GPL. >
Where Did the ‘New Urban Economics’ Go after 25 Years?

Not only are economists dismal, they are also introspective. In 1991 the UK’s Royal Economic Society celebrated its centennial by publishing an issue of the Economic Journal containing a series of short reflective papers by leading economists. These sought both to review the current state of economics and to look forward to consider where the subject may go.1 A theme common to many of the contributions was the role of mathematics, and especially mathematical modelling, in economics. No consensus emerged as to how useful it currently is or the extent to which it will play a role in the future development of the subject.2
Abortion Politics in North America

Abortion Politics in North America. By Melissa Haussman. Boulder, CO: Lynne Rienner. 2005. 209 pp. $49.95.Abortion politics is a bellwether of women's rights in any country. Melissa Haussman analyzes abortion politics in Canada, Mexico, and the United States using social movement and political mobilization theories to access these three North American states. She finds that rhetoric and reality for girls and women is very different in all three states. In Canada, the national health service covers abortion procedures. However, it is more complicated than that because of funding and access issues. In addition, Canada requires that only medical physicians have the ability to provide abortions, therefore excluding nurse practitioners and other qualified health care workers from providing these services. Mexico has officially criminalized and forbidden all abortions (except for rape survivors, who must petition their local state's attorney general for permission to abort). However, a thriving illegal abortion business exists in Mexico with semiacknowledgment from the state. The official ban on legal abortion is maintained despite the fact that illegal abortions are the third-largest cause of pregnant women's deaths in Mexico. In the United States, abortion is legal but highly restricted. Poor women have limited access to funds for legal abortions in a few states, while many states provide no public funding for abortions. Haussman summarizes these realities on the ground as “a gap formed between legal declarations of rights and the extent of health services provisions” (p. 1).
IT Governance Characteristics, Electronic Medical Records Sophistication, and Financial Performance in U.S. Hospitals: An Empirical Investigation

As a result of a recent federal government mandate, an increasing number of hospitals have decided to adopt electronic medical record (EMR) systems. This initiative is expected to lead toward more efficient and higher quality health care; however, little is known about governance characteristics and organizational performance for EMR adopters. Our goal is to inform theory and practice by examining hospitals with a sophisticated EMR and comparing those hospitals to similar hospitals (with a less sophisticated EMR) to understand the association between information technology (IT) governance characteristics and the implications on financial performance. Leveraging elements of the upper echelon theory, we posit that hospitals in which the chief information officer (CIO) reports to the chief executive officer, CIO turnover is low, and an IT steering committee is present are more likely to have a sophisticated EMR. We argue that EMR sophistication leads to improved financial performance. Our results underscore the importance of continuity in the CIO position on successful EMR implementations. Results also show that hospital size and financial performance are strongly associated with EMR sophistication. In addition, we find that a sophisticated EMR appears to be a fundamental element in improving hospitals’ revenue cycle management. Moreover, we find that hospitals with a sophisticated EMR appear to be more profitable. Finally, we observe that total payroll expense adjusted by total discharges drops among the sophisticated hospitals, potentially due to an increase in employee productivity. These insights can serve as a basis for tempering expectations relative to the financial impact of EMR adoption.
Notes on the Reproduction of the Streamside Salamander, Ambystoma barbouri, from Rutherford County, Tennessee

Abstract Populations of Ambystoma barbouri (Streamside Salamander) have recently been identified in the Central Basin of middle Tennessee. Little is known regarding the distribution, natural history, and health of populations in Tennessee, resulting in the salamander being “deemed in need of management” by state agencies. Here we provide information regarding reproduction for the only known extant populations in Rutherford County, TN. In February 2005, fifty-one egg masses from three first-order streams were digitally photographed and analyzed to determine size of egg mass, stage of development, ovum diameter, and embryo length. Number of eggs per mass, size of ova, and size of embryos were comparable to that reported in the literature. Egg masses varied noticeably in stage of embryonic development; we estimate that oviposition in 2005 occurred between early December and early February. Eurycea cirrigera (Southern Two-lined Salamanders) oviposited in the same first-order streams and during the same time p...
The Effectiveness of Court-Mandated Treatment on Recidivism Among Juvenile Offenders

SUMMARY This article presents the results of a study that looked at the effectiveness of court-mandated treatment on recidivism among juvenile offenders. Archival data was used to look at a sample of 100 juveniles who had participated in court-mandated treatment. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the posttest only design data with no control groups. Results showed that there were significant differences in reported recidivism by those who completed court-mandated treatment versus those who did not successfully complete treatment. Court-mandated treatment was statistically significant in determining whether a juvenile offender reoffends. Future research should look at variables that may contribute to the rise in delinquency. It is imperative that service delivery professionals receive adequate training and educational opportunities to become more knowledgeable about delinquency. The lack of training can lead to ineffective treatment approaches and the potential for further harm and incarcera...
A Mixed Methodology Analysis of Co-Teacher Assessments.

A mixed methodology approach was used to study the relationship between general and special educators who were co-teaching. On two co-teacher assessment instruments, sums of ratings from special educators and general elementary and secondary educators in an urban multicultural school district in the southeastern USA were similar to those obtained from a sample of early childhood specialists and early childhood educators co-teaching in Hawaii. The highest rated items on the two assessment instruments were similar in content. Interviews and observations with a subset of survey respondents corroborated the survey items. Overall, the follow-up interviews and observations corroborated and instantiated the co-teacher ratings on the survey items. Implications for teacher education are discussed.
Proteasome Activity Is Required for Anthrax Lethal Toxin To Kill Macrophages

Anthrax lethal toxin (LeTx), consisting of protective antigen (PA) and lethal factor (LF), rapidly kills primary mouse macrophages and macrophage-like cell lines such as RAW 264.7. LF is translocated by PA into the cytosol of target cells, where it acts as a metalloprotease to cleave mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1) and possibly other proteins. In this study, we show that proteasome inhibitors such as acetyl-Leu-Leu-norleucinal, MG132, and lactacystin efficiently block LeTx cytotoxicity, whereas other protease inhibitors do not. The inhibitor concentrations that block LF cytotoxicity are similar to those that inhibit the proteasome-dependent IκB-α degradation induced by lipopolysaccharide. The inhibitors did not interfere with the proteolytic cleavage of MEK1 in LeTx-treated cells, indicating that they do not directly block the proteolytic activity of LF. However, the proteasome inhibitors did prevent ATP depletion, an early effect of LeTx. No overall activation of the proteasome by LeTx was detected, as shown by the cleavage of fluorogenic substrates of the proteasome. All of these results suggest that the proteasome mediates a toxic process initiated by LF in the cell cytosol. This process probably involves degradation of unidentified molecules that are essential for macrophage homeostasis. Moreover, this proteasome-dependent process is an early step in LeTx intoxication, but it is downstream of the cleavage by LF of MEK1 or other putative substrates.
Metric transformation for a turbo‐coded DPSK waveform

The classical turbo-decoding algorithm is based on the assumption that the input sequence to the decoder has been disturbed by a noise process that has a Gaussian distribution. For a differentially coherent phase shift keying (DPSK) waveform, the output statistics of a differentially coherent demodulator is nonGaussian. When this sequence is fed directly into the turbo decoder, particularly under a fading environment, the mismatch between decoder algorithm assumptions and actual input statistics can result in significant decoder performance degradation. This paper investigates the bit error performance for such a mismatch for the DPSK waveform. Techniques for forming enhanced turbo-decoding metrics with biased channel side information (CSI) are proposed. Using these new metrics, error performance in fading conditions is shown to improve significantly. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transparency and Self-Censorship in Shared Decision-Making

Jay Katz, in his classic work, The Silent World of Doctor and Patient (1984), related the lack of informed consent found in most medical practice to the absence of meaningful conversation between t...