cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
State-specific ATV-related fatality rates: an update in the new millennium.

OBJECTIVES: We compared state-specific all-terrain vehicle (ATV) fatality rates from 2000-2007 with 1990-1999 data, grouping states according to helmet, training, and licensure requirements. METHODS: We used the CDC WONDER online database to identify ATV cases from 2000-2007 and calculate rates per 100,000 population by state, gender, and age. RESULTS: ATV deaths (n=7,231) occurred at a rate of 0.32 per 100,000 population. Males accounted for 86% of ATV-related deaths at a rate that was six times that for females (0.55 vs. 0.09 per 100,000 population, respectively); 60% of the male deaths occurred in the 15- to 44-year age group. With the exception of the two oldest age categories, rates were consistently higher in the no-helmet-law group. Both the number and rate of ATV-related deaths increased more than threefold between 1990-1999 and 2000-2007. West Virginia and Alaska continue to have the highest ATV fatality rates (1.63 and 2.67 ATV deaths per 100,000 population, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Helmet-use requirements seem to slightly mitigate ATV-related death, but training requirements do not. For policy to be effective, it must be enforced. Language: en
On the transverse-momentum distribution of produced secondaries from statistical thermodynamic models of strong interactions at high energies

The asymptotic form for the transverse-momentum (P t ) distribution of secondary particles determined by statistical thermodynamic models of high-energy interactions is limited to certain values ofP t . The complete form and its relation to the asymptotic relationship are considered in this paper.
COVARIANT SPIN OPERATORS AND THE KINEMATICS OF HELICITY AMPLITUDES.

The kinematical singularities and constraints of helicity amplitudes at thresholds and pseudothresholds are investigated within the formalism of covariant spin operators. Constraint equations for the amplitudes are derived for two-body scattering processes of the following three types:a) different thresholds and pseudothresholds in the initial and final states,b) clastic scattering, andc) particles of equal mass in both the initial and final states. It is shown that, under certain conditions, the derivatives of the helicity amplitudes satisfy similar equations. The method of investigation is essentially equivalent to using crossing, but arises in a natural way through the use of transformations between different covariant spin operators, without reference to the crossed channel.
Compressible bubbles with surface tension

A level-set based model is described for computing compressible multifluid dynamics. A ‘stiffened’ equation of state is assumed, which may be used to model both gas and liquid phases. Forces due to surface tension are included in the model. They take the form of a singular source term at the material interface. The singular nature of the source term and the different compressibilities of the fluid components make the model stiff and problems challenging to compute. We present computations of an oscillating bubble with surface tension.
Individual Rights, Judicial Deference, and Administrative Law Norms in Constitutional Decision Making

Administrative agencies play a crucial role in American government, so unsurprisingly, their actions sometimes threaten individual rights. Despite this threat, courts determining whether a constitutional individual right has been violated often ignore the fact and nature of administrative action. Indeed, in a wide range of cases alleging the violation of an individual right, the Supreme Court reflexively defers to the government without asking whether administrative officials or more directly accountable political representatives were responsible for the alleged infringement. Even when the Court identifies these distinctions, its treatment is inconsistent and inchoate. This Article argues that courts should more consistently and carefully consider the nature of administrative discretion when determining whether an agency has violated a substantive individual right. Instead of casually conflating administrative and legislative action, courts deciding such cases should identify the relevant constitutional actor. When that actor is an agency, courts should then draw on administrative law norms to examine whether the agency deserves deference. Such an approach would help courts avoid the unjustified deference they sometimes offer agencies in individual rights cases, thus encouraging constitutional adherence and assuring independent judicial evaluation of the alleged constitutional injury.
Light gluino and squark production in Tevatron dijet experiments

Abstract We consider single squark production in p p collisions at s =1800 GeV in the light gluino scenario, where production is dominated by the parton subprocess qg → q g → g g . Computed are the total production cross sections as well as the contribution of such production to the dijet mass distribution. We compare our cross sections to the experimental data from the CDF collaboration with integrated luminosity of 19 pb −1 .
The additive effects of clofibrate and probucol (DH-581) on rat serum cholesterol

Abstract Clofibrate [ethyl p -chlorophenoxyisobutyrate] and probucol [4,4′-(isopropyl-idenedithio)bis(2,6-di- t -butylphenol)] were fed to male albino rats at a 0.25%. concentration in the diet, the drugs being given both singly and in combination. The two drugs fed concurrently had significantly greater activity in reducing the serum level of cholesterol than did either clofibrate or probucol alone.
Generation and detection of quantum entangled states for quantum imaging

A factorization scheme will be introduced that potentially permits any N00N or M&M state to be generated and detected. Explicit results for N00N states are presented for N=3. Internal loss within the entanglement generator and external loss due to atmosphere, detectors and targets are modeled. A method using these approaches for quantum entanglement based imaging is provided that gives N times classical resolution, where N is the number photons entangled with explicit results exhibited for N=3. Closed form expressions for the wave function, normalization, density matrix, reduced density matrix, visibility, and probabilities of detection of one through three photons using detectors with general polarization characteristics are provided. Explicit entanglement generator and detector designs are provided in terms of linear and nonlinear photonics devices. The fundamental role of post-selection measurement for generating entanglement is included. A general factorization scheme for M&M states is provided. Discussions of entanglement devices that will produce general M&M states at near visible frequencies are given. A discussion of a bearing measurement device that exhibits both super sensitivity and resolution is provided. Computational results are provided that compare probabilities of detection for three single photon detectors with -45, 45, and 45 degree linear polarization. Results for detecting one to three photons or the vacuum state are compared. Computational results for detecting three photons with these detectors for various values of internal and atmospheric loss are provided. Resolution improvements born of quantum entanglement are shown not to degrade with loss. Loss degrades probability of detection not resolution.
Compliance of the hair bundle associated with gating of mechanoelectrical transduction channels in the Bullfrog's saccular hair cell

Mechanical stimuli are thought to open the transduction channels of a hair cell by tensing elastic components, the gating springs, that pull directly on the channels. To test this model, we measured the stiffness of hair bundles during mechanical stimulation. A bundle's compliance increased by about 40% at the position where half of the channels opened. This we attribute to conformational changes of transduction channels as they open and close. The magnitude and displacement dependence of the gating compliance provide quantitative information about the molecular basis of mechanoelectrical transduction: the force required to open each channel, the number of transduction channels per hair cell, the stiffness of a gating spring, and the swing of a channel's gate as it opens.
Introns increase gene expression in cultured maize cells.

Using electroporation-mediated gene transfer, the gene encoding the Slow (S) migrating polypeptide of the maize (Zea mays L.) alcohol dehydrogenase-1 (Adhl) enzyme has been introduced stably and transiently into maize cells containing an endogenous Fast (F) ADH1 electromorph. In stable transformants an l l.5-kb fragment was sufficient to program normal S expression relative to the endogenous F allele. In transient assays, Adhl-S gene constructs lacking the 9 Adhl-S intervening sequences (introns) were expressed at levels 50- to 100-fold less than the intact gene; the presence of intron 1 alone restored levels of gene expression to those found with the intact gene. The last two introns also stimulate Adhl-S expression, but the level is threefold below that of the intact gene. The expression of a chimeric chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene utilizing the 5' promoter and 3' polyadenylation regions of the Adhl gene was increased 100-fold by the addition of sequences containing the Adhl intron 1. The Adhl intron 1 sequences did not stimulate CAT expression when located outside the transcribed region. When located within the transcribed region, the Adhl intron 1 region efficiently stimulated CAT expression only when located between the promoter and the CAT coding region. A construct containing the Adhl intron 1 fragment produced 40-fold more mRNA than a construct containing an equivalent cDNA fragment. Both the Adhl intron 1 and the intron from a second maize gene, Bronzel, stimulated expression from other promoters (cauliflower mosaic virus 355 and nopaline synthase) and of other coding regions (luciferase and neomycin phosphotransferase II) as well. These results indicated that introns increase both Adhl and chimeric gene expression in maize and the optimal location for such an intron is near the 5' end of the mRNA.
Standardized database development for EEG epileptiform transient detection: EEGnet scoring system and machine learning analysis

The routine scalp electroencephalogram (rsEEG) is the most common clinical neurophysiology procedure. The most important role of rsEEG is to detect evidence of epilepsy, in the form of epileptiform transients (ETs), also known as spike or sharp wave discharges. Due to the wide variety of morphologies of ETs and their similarity to artifacts and waves that are part of the normal background activity, the task of ET detection is difficult and mistakes are frequently made. The development of reliable computerized detection of ETs in the EEG could assist physicians in interpreting rsEEGs. We report progress in developing a standardized database for testing and training ET detection algorithms. We describe a new version of our EEGnet software system for collecting expert opinion on EEG datasets, a completely web-browser based system. We report results of EEG scoring from a group of 11 board-certified academic clinical neurophysiologists who annotated 30-s excepts from rsEEG recordings from 100 different patients. The scorers had moderate inter-scorer reliability and low to moderate intra-scorer reliability. In order to measure the optimal size of this standardized rsEEG database, we used machine learning models to classify paroxysmal EEG activity in our database into ET and non-ET classes. Based on our results, it appears that our database will need to be larger than its current size. Also, our non-parametric classifier, an artificial neural network, performed better than our parametric Bayesian classifier. Of our feature sets, the wavelet feature set proved most useful for classification.
Swelling and dissolution of the macromolecular structure of bituminous coals

The disintegration/swelling force of thin samples of bituminous coal was determined in methylene chloride and dimethyl formamide. The results were analysed with a mechanistic model identifying diffusional and relaxational mechanisms.
Characterization and Localization of P2 Receptors in Rat Submandibular Gland Acinar and Duct Cells

[Ca2+]i and the Cl- current were measured in isolated submandibular gland acinar and duct cells to characterize and localize the purinergic receptors expressed in these cells. In both cell types 2'-3'-benzoylbenzoyl (Bz)-ATP and ATP increased [Ca2+]i mainly by activation of Ca2+ influx. UTP had only minimal effect on [Ca2+]i at concentrations between 0.1 and 1 mM. However, a whole cell current recording showed that all nucleotides effectively activated Cl- currents. Inhibition of signal transduction through G proteins by guanyl-5'-beta-thiophosphate revealed that the effect of ATP on Cl- current was mediated in part by activation of a G protein-coupled and in part by a G protein-independent receptor. BzATP activated exclusively the G protein-independent portion, whereas UTP activated only the G protein-dependent portion of the Cl- current. Measurement of [Ca2+]i in the microperfused duct showed that ATP stimulated a [Ca2+]i increase when applied to the luminal or the basolateral sides. BzATP increased [Ca2+]i only when applied to the luminal side, whereas UTP at 100 microM increased -Ca2+-i only when applied to the basolateral side. The combined results suggest that duct and possibly acinar cells express P2z receptors in the luminal and P2u receptors in the basolateral membrane.
The Relationship between Life Goals at Thirty and Perceptions of Goal Attainment and Life Satisfaction at Seventy for Gifted Men and Women

This article examines the relationship between life goals at thirty and perceptions of goal attainment, happiness, and life satisfaction at seventy for gifted men and women. Respondents were members of the Terman Study of the Gifted. Men and women differed in life goals at age thirty, with men predominantly oriented toward occupational pursuit, and women predominantly oriented toward home and family life. Results showed a significant sex difference in feelings of goal attainment at age seventy, with men reporting greater attainment. Women with occupational goals at age thirty reported lower feelings of goal attainment at age seventy than women without such goals. For men, a positive relationship was found between satisfaction and happiness at age seventy and feelings of goal attainment. For women, these relationships varied according to life goals at age thirty. The implications of these results are discussed.
Upper airway oedema following autologous blood transfusion from a wound drainage system.

We report a case of a 70-yr-old white woman who underwent a revision of a total hip arthroplasty under general anaesthesia. The intraoperative course was stable without any complications and the estimated blood loss was 2500 ml. The patient received an autologous transfusion of blood from a wound drainage system in the recovery room. The transfusion was followed immediately by marked respiratory distress and upper airway oedema. She required emergency tracheal intubation and mechanical pulmonary ventilation. A coagulopathy also developed which was treated and resolved within 12 hr of the capillary leak phenomenon. The trachea was extubated on the first postoperative day and she had an uneventful course until discharge from the hospital two days later. We discuss the possible, aetiology of such a reaction to autologous blood including complement and platelet activation. It is suggested that reinfusion ofnonwashed shed blood from a wound drainage system may present a hazard even though the fluid was autologous in origin.
The Contradictions of Wanting the Undesirable ''Other''

Immigrants at the Margins: Law, Race and Exclusion in Southern Europe. By Kitty Calavita. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2005. 278 pp., $90.00 cloth (ISBN: 0-521-84663-3), $39.99 paper (ISBN: 0-521-60912-7). When governments say that they want to “integrate” immigrants, what do they mean, and do they really mean it? Kitty Calavita's Immigrants at the Margins challenges the increasingly common government rhetoric of immigrant integration with a deep examination of the underlying structure and process of immigration law and policy in two countries: Italy and Spain. Calavita's conclusions are clear. Even though the Italian and Spanish governments are apparently sincere about integrating immigrants into their respective societies, the deep logic of their immigration law is to marginalize the immigrant “Other.” In both cases, this contradiction is covered up by distinguishing between “legal” and “illegal” immigrants. However, the border between “legal” immigrants (who are to be integrated) and “illegal” immigrants (who are to be excluded) is fictional and fluid. As a result, the effects of marginalization permeates the border between the two. Given the rhetoric of politicians everywhere—including in the United States—welcoming “legal” immigrants while viciously attacking “illegal” immigrants, Calavita's analysis should raise questions for anyone concerned about immigration law and policy. It should also be of interest to legal scholars in general who wish to understand the contradictions of law in defining its subjects. Immigrants at the Margins begins with a detailed description of the politics behind Italian and Spanish immigration laws (chapter 2). In both nations, a “social rights oriented” version of immigration law—providing housing, health, and education benefits to immigrants and encouraging their social membership—was short lived. It was replaced by a “police oriented version” that monitors immigrants and constantly attempts to …
GABAergic ganglion cells in the rabbit retina

The ganglion cells are the output neurons of the retina. There is, however, relatively little known about the neurotransmitters used by these cells. In the present study, ganglion cells identified with a ganglion cell-specific monoclonal antibody (AB5) are shown in separate double-label experiments to be γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-like immunoreactive and to possess a high-affinity uptake mechanism for [3H]GABA accumulation. The localization of these markers of GABA activity to AB5-labelled ganglion cells provides the first definitive evidence for the presence of a classical transmitter in retinal ganglion cells and suggests that GABA may perform a role as a neurotransmitter in these cells.
Antimicrobial cytocompatible pentaerythritol triacrylate‐co‐trimethylolpropane composite scaffolds for orthopaedic implants

As of 2010, 5.3 million orthopedic surgeries are performed each year, and this number is expected to increase to 6.2 million by 2020. On average, 27.7% of all orthopedic surgeries result in infection which often leads to osteomyelitis and the loss of supporting bone. In this study, we describe two synthetic bone grafts, or augmentation methods, for a biodegradable, silver nanoparticle (SNPs) con- taining antimicrobial scaffolds composed of pentaerythritol triacrylate-co-trimethylolpropane tris (3-mercaptopropionate) (PETA) and hydroxyapatite (HA). This osteoinductive and degradable material is designed to stimulate proliferation of bone progenitor cells, and provide controlled release of antimicrobial components. The first method, denoted as the "incorporating method," involves dissolving SNPs in ethanol, butanol, or isopropanol and directly incorporating the particles into the scaffold prior to polymerization. The second method, "coating method," involves submerging fabricated scaffolds into their respective SNPs-solution and mixing for 24 h. The coating method allowed better distribution and release of SNPs from the surface of the composites when exposed to extracellular media. The in vitro release of silver for both methods was quantified by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The scaf- folds made by means of the coating method showed increased release of silver with respect to time; no silver leached from the scaffolds formed by the incorporating method. Use of Alamar Blue assay demonstrated that the SNPs incorporation did not affect cell viability when tested with hASCs. The scaffolds formed by the coating method inhibited the proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus 99.5% and Escherichia coli by 99.9% within 24 h. V C 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41099.
Stress dependence of Tc for the incommensurate phase transition in K2SeO4

Abstract We have measured the uniaxial stress dependence of the frequency of the zone center A1 soft mode in the low temperature phase of K2SeO4. The frequency shows a strong decrease with stress. We infer from this a similar decrease of the incommensurate phase transition temperature Tc. This behavior is explained by detailed lattice dynamical calculations for K2SeO4 which reveal the unusual balance between Coulomb and short-range forces in this structure. Our calculations show that this balance is changed by stress in such a way that the quasi-harmonic normal mode frequencies harden drastically. Tc is reduced by this purely volume dependent effect. This unusual balance between Coulumb and short-range forces also provides a natural explanation for the occurence of an incommensurate phase transition in K2SeO4. We infer that similar transitions are likely in isomorphous structures.
Leiomyosarcoma of the superior vena cava and azygos vein

A 40-year-old woman presented with facial swelling and pressure sensation of the ears and sinuses. Chest roentgenography revealed a right paratracheal mass, which was confirmed by a venogram, and transjugular biopsy showed low-grade leiomyosarcoma. The superior vena cava was resected and reconstructed using a spiral vein graft. Pathologic evaluation revealed a low-grade leiomyosarcoma arising from both the superior vena cava and the azygos vein with clear margins.
Rho and omega production in pi+p interactions at 15.7 GeV/c.

We report the results of a study of \ensuremath{\rho} and \ensuremath{\omega} production in ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$p interactions at 15.7 GeV/c. The SLAC hybrid bubble-chamber facility was used to study reactions in which neutral particles are produced. Three tantalum plates inside the 40-in. bubble chamber and a large array of lead glass downstream of the chamber provided photon detection over a large solid angle. Final states with two neutral particles have been isolated with kinematic fits in which neutral pions were reconstructed in the plates and lead glass. Data from an earlier untriggered ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$p bubble-chamber experiment at 15 GeV/c were used to obtain samples of events in channels which did not trigger the hybrid system. Cross sections for \ensuremath{\rho} and \ensuremath{\omega} production are given for several exclusive final states. Relative \ensuremath{\rho} and \ensuremath{\omega} production rates are studied. The ratio of nondiffractive \ensuremath{\omega} to ${\ensuremath{\rho}}^{0}$ production is measured to be \ensuremath{\omega}/${\ensuremath{\rho}}^{0}$=0.44\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.07. We estimate the inclusive \ensuremath{\omega} cross section to be 1.9\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3 mb. The results are compared to the Lund model of low-${p}_{T}$ hadronic reactions.
There are no p -complete families of symmetric Boolean functions

Abstract We present a proof of a negative answer to the question raised by Skyum and Valiant (1981), namely, whether the class of symmetric Boolean functions has a p -complete family.
Single breath‐hold diffusion‐weighted imaging of the abdomen

Purpose To generate high quality diffusion-weighted images (DWI) and corresponding isotropic ADC maps of the abdomen with full organ (kidneys) coverage in a single breath-hold. Materials and Methods DWI was performed in 12 healthy subjects with an asymmetric, spin-echo, single-shot EPI readout on a system with high performance gradients (40 mT/minute). The isotropic diffusion coefficient 〈D〉 was measured from 〈D〉 maps and SNR was determined for both diffusion-weighted and reference images in the liver, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. In six patients, single-axis diffusion encoding along three orthogonal axes (12 NEX) was employed to assess anisotropic diffusion in kidneys. Results This technique yielded images of quality and resolution which compares favorably to that of prior work. SNR ranged from 27.0 in liver to 44.1 in kidneys for the diffusion-weighted images, and from 19.6 in liver to 39.0 in kidneys in reference images. ADCs obtained in the renal medulla, renal cortex, liver, spleen, and pancreas were (2091 ± 55) × 10−6, (2580 ± 53) × 10−6, (1697 ± 52) × 10−6, (1047 ± 82) × 10−6, and (2605 ± 168) × 10−6 mm2/second, respectively (mean ± SE). Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in the renal medulla and cortex were significantly different by paired t-test (P = 4.22 × 10−10). Renal medulla and cortex yielded anisotropy indices (AI) of 0.129 and 0.067, respectively. Conclusions 1) Single-shot SE EPI DWI in the abdomen with this technique provides high quality images and 〈D〉 maps with full organ coverage in a single breath-hold; 2) ADCs obtained in the renal medulla and cortex are significantly different; and 3) diffusion within the renal medulla is moderately anisotropic. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2003;18:377–382. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Effect of cortical polarization on a conditioned avoidance response

Abstract A conditioned forelimb flexion response was established in twelve rabbits using a flickering light as the conditional signal and an electric shock to the limb as the unconditional stimulus. Transcortical potential gradients (current density, 10 μa per mm 2 ) were imposed upon the visual receiving area, or upon the relevant portion of motor cortex bilaterally. Surface cathodal polarization of visual cortex produced a striking decrement in performance of the conditioned avoidance response in trials carried out during the period of current flow, and also on the subsequent day of training. No definite change in performance was seen during surface cathodal polarization of motor cortex, or during passage of surface anodal current through either motor or visual cortex. There was suggestive evidence of an improvement in performance on the day following application of surface anodal current to the visual cortex.
FACTORS OF CREATIVITY AND TEMPERAMENT IN THE ASSESSMENT OF OFFICERS

A factor analysis of the self-scores of 204 Marine officers on 21 aptitude tests of 11 hypothesized creative aptitudes, of the evaluations for these officers made by their superiors on a situational rating scale that was designed to reflect the same 11 creative aptitudes as well as a criterion variable of military leadership, and of self-scores on 10 scales of the G-Z Temperament Survey revealed 15 interpretable factors, each one of which was exclusively defined by variables within only one of the three types of assessment devices.
Formation of CdS and CdSe nanocrystals by sequential implantation

Abstract Nanocrystals of CdS and CdSe have been formed in SiO2, Al2O3, and Si by sequential ion implantation and annealing. In SiO2, the nanocrystals have the hexagonal wurtzite structure and are randomly oriented. In Al2O3 and Si, nanocrystals are three dimensionally oriented. They have the cubic zincblende structure in Si and can be produced with either structure in Al2O3 by controlling the implantation conditions. In SiO2 and Al2O3, nanocrystals exhibit strong optical absorption and photoluminescence (PL). Evidence for quantum confinement is observed, and the PL results for CdSe are strongly temperature dependent.
Base analysis of ribopolynucleotides by tritium incorporation following analytical polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

Abstract A procedure is described for tritium base composition analysis of major and modified constituents of 4S RNA following extraction of the RNA from analytical slab gels. Gel electrophoresis and isolation of RNA are shown not to lead to chemical alterations of RNA bases, degradation or preferential losses of RNA species.
Atomic view of surface diffusion with and without a driving force, and atomic interactions

Abstract Metal adatoms on perfectly developed crystal planes migrate at relatively low temperatures. When adatoms encounter each other, they may combine into a cluster or they may repel each other. Quite often, adatoms are found to migrate together even though they remain separated by a few atomic diameters. When a very high non-uniform electric field is applied to a surface, polarization binding induces a driving force and adatom migration becomes directional. Quantitative information on diffusion parameters, interatomic potentials and some other elementary properties of adatoms can be obtained with the field ion microscope.
Functional Proteomic and Structural Insights Into Molecular Recognition in the Nitrilase Family Enzymes.

Nitrilases are a large and diverse family of nonpeptidic C−N hydrolases. The mammalian genome encodes eight nitrilase enzymes, several of which remain poorly characterized. Prominent among these are nitrilase-1 (Nit1) and nitrilase-2 (Nit2), which, despite having been shown to exert effects on cell growth and possibly serving as tumor suppressor genes, are without known substrates or selective inhibitors. In previous studies, we identified several nitrilases, including Nit1 and Nit2, as targets for dipeptide−chloroacetamide activity-based proteomics probes. Here, we have used these probes, in combination with high-resolution crystallography and molecular modeling, to systematically map the active site of Nit2 and identify residues involved in molecular recognition. We report the 1.4 A crystal structure of mouse Nit2 and use this structure to identify residues that discriminate probe labeling between the Nit1 and Nit2 enzymes. Interestingly, some of these residues are conserved across all vertebrate Nit2 e...
SHORT-TERM E-PROCUREMENT STRATEGIES VERSUS LONG-TERM CONTRACTS

In this paper we compare the following procurement strategies based on their expected costs: strategic partnership, which is based on a long-term relationship with a single supplier; online search, which is a short-term strategy; and a combined strategy, which is some combination of the first two strategies. In addition, we determine for the online search and combined strategy the optimal number of suppliers to contact for a price quote, and analyze how it depends on the various cost and demand parameters. The main contribution of this paper is that it does not assume a single procurement strategy, but rather compares three alternatives.
A Multicenter Study of the Effect of Solution Temperature on Nasal Potential Difference Measurements

Background Nasal potential difference (PD) measurement quantifies the abnormal sodium and chloride transport that is characteristic of cystic fibrosis (CF) and has gained acceptance as both a diagnostic tool and outcome measure for new CF therapies. Because small changes in nasal PD-measured chloride transport are often an important component in evaluating new CF therapies, techniques to maximize sensitivity and reproducibility are essential. Study objective To determine if administration of warmed nasal PD solutions (37°C), instead of room temperature solutions (22°C), results in significant increase in nasal PD-measured transepithelial chloride transport. Design Multicenter, prospective, cross-over trial of repeated measurements of nasal PD at 22°C and 37°C. Results Thirty-two healthy volunteers completed the study (four centers, each with 8 subjects). For 22°C vs 37°C, baseline (± SD) nasal PD (− 19.3 ± 6.9 millivolts [mV] vs − 18.8 ± 7.7 mV, p = 0.76), amiloride-sensitive PD (ΔPD, 10.4 ± 5.6 mV vs 11.0 ± 6.1 mV, p = 0.60), and low chloride response (ΔPD, − 10.0 ± 8.0 mV vs − 8.0 ± 7.1 mV, p = 0.13) were not statistically significantly affected by warming of solutions. Warming solutions to 37°C dramatically increased the chloride transport response to isoproterenol (ΔPD, − 6.9 ± 6.4 mV vs − 13.3 ± 8.8 mV, p Conclusions Performing nasal PD studies with solutions at 37°C instead of 22°C increases the observed total chloride response by approximately 25% and the isoproterenol-dependent chloride response by approximately 95%. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Therapeutics Development Network now recommends warming of solutions as a standard procedure for nasal PD protocols. Utilization of warmed solutions will standardize nasal PD techniques across centers and potentially increase the ability to identify therapies that result in small incremental improvements in CF transmembrane conductance regulator function.
Facile postpolymerization end‐modification of RAFT polymers

One-pot methods for the end-group postpolymerization modification of reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) derived polymers were investigated. Dithioester-terminated polymers were transformed into ω-functionalized polymers through conjugate addition of a variety of acrylates with an intermediate thiol. These methods provide a versatile means of introducing a variety of functionalities onto the polymer terminus, while simultaneously removing the residual dithiobenzoate group. A series of functionalized polymethylmethacrylate-b-polystyrene (PMMA-b-PS) polymers were synthesized utilizing the developed methods to probe the effect of charged end groups on diblock copolymer phase separation in thin films. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 346–356, 2009
Contextual Decision Making in General Game Playing

General Game Playing refers to designing Artificial Intelligence agents that are capable of playing different games without human intervention. The games are defined by sets of rules represented in logic descriptions and the agent players interact in a multi-agent system with a game server coordinating the legality of the operations and keeping the players informed of the state changes. This paper describes a general game agent that isolates the heuristic search coverage for contextual decision making by efficiently creating dynamic decision trees. The influence of certain game features is evaluated within the current decision context rather than on the whole game scale. The benefit of this approach is shown by performance comparison with agents that do search, learning, and learning with decision trees. We show this for a variety of games and have compared favorably against well known general game players and replicated actions of known human expert strategies.
The effect of loading rate on chevron notch fracture toughness measurements

Abstract One common concern with the manual testing of chevron notched specimens to determine fracture toughness is that it does not provide for precise control over the loading rate. This study examines the effect of loading rate on the measured fracture toughness of 20 identical hardened AISI 4140 steel samples. Eight samples were tested in a servohydraulic testing machine using a four-point bend fixture and four different ram speeds to produce total testing times of 1.1, 4.4, 16.7 and 69 sec. In addition 12 samples were tested in the Toughness Tool, a device similar to a torque wrench, that measures the maximum moment required to fracture a chevron notched four-point bend sample. Samples were tested in this device using fast, natural and slow loading rates corresponding to testing times of 0.7, 3.5 and 23 sec, respectively. Both sets of tests reveal that loading rate has no effect on the measured fracture toughness. Moreover, it is shown that the loading rate introduced by the Toughness Tool is easily controlled to within ± 15%. Therefore, the loading rate variability introduced by the new device is much smaller than that provided for in ASTM E1304, the standard for chevron notch fracture toughness testing, in which the loading rate range is permitted to vary over a factor of four.
Sufficiency conditions for quantum reflection

The mathematics of low-energy scattering from asymptotic power law potentials are examined to extract characteristic lengths of the scattering problem in the limit of low velocity. These are then used to characterize the limiting behavior of the scattering wave function, leading immediately to general, explicit, sufficiency conditions for quantum reflection for arbitrary gas and surface species.
Identification of Components of Osage Orange Fruit (Maclura pomifera) and Their Repellency to German Cockroaches

Abstract The fruit of the Osage orange tree (Maclura pomifera (Raf.) Schnied.) was extracted by several methods: solid phase microextraction (SPME) volatile trapping of the headspace, solvent extraction with hexane, soxhlet extraction with hexane or methylene chloride and steam distillation. The isolates from each technique were subjected to GC/MS to compare extract components. Ripe and unripe fruits were compared using SPME. Several compounds of terpenoid structure, mostly sesquiterpenoids, were determined as present in the isolates. Among these were elemol/hedycaryol, α-copaene, α-cubebene, δ-cadinene, β-elemene, β-caryophyllene, α-ylangene/valencene, (Z,E)-farnesol and the green volatile hexyl hexanoate. The behavioral response of German cockroaches [Blattella germanica (L.)] to the oil and extracts was examined in a choice arena, and the extracts were found to be repellent. Individual compounds, including the isoflavones osajin and pomiferin, were purchased or isolated and tested directly, and several...
Early Career Teachers: Dilemmas and Challenges

With almost half of teachers leaving the profession within their first five years of teaching, teacher attrition continues to be a critical challenge for our profession. This is especially true in ...
Contribution of Adenosine A2A and A2B Receptors to Ischemic Coronary Dilation: Role of KV and KATP Channels

This study was designed to elucidate the contribution of adenosine A(2A) and A(2B) receptors to coronary reactive hyperemia and downstream K(+) channels involved. Coronary blood flow was measured in open-chest anesthetized dogs. Adenosine dose-dependently increased coronary flow from 0.72 ± 0.1 to 2.6 ± 0.5 mL/minute/g under control conditions. Inhibition of A(2A) receptors with SCH58261 (1 μm) attenuated adenosine-induced dilation by ∼50%, while combined administration with the A(2B) receptor antagonist alloxazine (3 μm) produced no additional effect. SCH58261 significantly reduced reactive hyperemia in response to a transient 15 second occlusion; debt/repayment ratio decreased from 343 ± 63 to 232 ± 44%. Alloxazine alone attenuated adenosine-induced increases in coronary blood flow by ∼30% but failed to alter reactive hyperemia. A(2A) receptor agonist CGS21680 (10 μg bolus) increased coronary blood flow by 3.08 ± 0.31 mL/minute/g. This dilator response was attenuated to 0.76 ± 0.14 mL/minute/g by inhibition of K(V) channels with 4-aminopyridine (0.3mm) and to 0.11 ± 0.31 mL/minute/g by inhibition of K(ATP) channels with glibenclamide (3 mg/kg). Combined administration abolished vasodilation to CGS21680. These data indicate that A(2A) receptors contribute to coronary vasodilation in response to cardiac ischemia via activation of K(V) and K(ATP) channels.
A note on non-periodic demoeconomic fluctuations with positive measure

Abstract Proofs of the existence of non-periodic behavior using sufficient chaos conditions leave open the question as to whether irregular fluctuations are probable for initial conditions drawn at random. It is known that in some cases this probability is zero, thus casting doubt on the importance of chaos as a theoretical characterization of the phenomenon of interest. In this note we consider this issue in the context of a classical demoeconomic model. We show that non-periodic population fluctuations are probable, converging to a limit set with positive measure that is absolutely continuous with respect to Lebesque measure.
Going for the gold: Prosecutorial decision making in cases of wife assault

Violence is a common feature of family life in the United States, but it has received little attention from the criminal justice system. Since women are the primary victims of such violence, some observers have argued that this inattention represents yet another form of discrimination against women, or is at least protective of traditional values concerning marriage and the family. For example, Martin (1976, p. 88) states “The sanctity of the family home pervades the world of law enforcement.” In a similar vein, Roy (1977, p. 138) argues that “underlying the criminal justice system is the covert toleration of wifebeating, as indicated in the policy and personal attitudes of the police, prosecutors, and judges; and through the inefficient procedures which render even the existing legal remedies inadequate.” These and similar criticisms generally treat the police, prosecutors, and judges as administrators of justice who, in cases of wife assault, fail to do their jobs. One can see how a cycle of inattention could exist in the criminal justice system without resort to explanations based on misogynist individual attitudes or patriarchical organizational goals, or to claims of inefficiency and indolence. At the very least, police may be reluctant to arrest batterers or enforce court orders because of nonsupport from prosecutors and judges, and without the exercise of police discretion, cases of domestic violence cannot come to the attention of the courts. Under these circumstances, few cases would be prosecuted, thus further reinforcing
Comparing the effects of age, BMI and gender on severe injury (AIS 3+) in motor-vehicle crashes

Background The effects of age, body mass index (BMI) and gender on motor vehicle crash (MVC) injuries are not well understood and current prevention efforts do not effectively address variability in occupant characteristics.
Speech perception, production, and the sensorimotor mu rhythm

The EEG mu (μ) rhythm is considered a measure of sensorimotor integration. This rhythm is commonly identified by co-occuring peaks at ~10'Hz(alpha) and ~20 Hz (beta) across the sensorimotor cortex. Suppression of the power within peaks are thought to reflect somatosensory and motor aspects of processing respectively. Suppression of μ power (especially in the beta peak) has been found when performing, imagining or perceiving relevant action (e.g., while watching hand movements and oro-facial movements). μ suppression has also been found to visual speech perception, listening to speech in noise, and when mentally segmenting speech for auditory discrimination, suggesting that it is a sensitive measure of audio-motor integration in speech. The two main goals in this study are to bolster understanding of the timing and function of dorsal stream activity in speech perception by examining ERS/ERD patterns in quiet and noisy discrimination conditions and to provide initial evidence that, via the application of ICA / ERSP, the use of EEG can be extended effectively into speech production. 17 of 20 participants provided left and right p components that were common to perception and production tasks. The most probably source of these components was the premotor cortex (BA 6) with primary motor cortex (BA 4) and primary somatosensory (BA 2/3) cortex providing additional possible sources. Fewer (8 and 7 of 20) participants provided components with average equivalent dipoles emanating from BA 22 and BA 7, respectively, with alpha activity suggesting entrainment within the dorsal stream.
By‐products of police radio

Will use of the radio by polilce departments lead to a much disired consolidation of public safety departments.
Influence of mode and duration of phenylalanine administration on biochemical parameters in rats of various ages.

Blood and tissue levels of phenylalanine and tyrosine progressively increase during he first two weeks of feeding a phenylalanine-rich diet to weanling rats. During the same time, liver phenylalanine hydroxylase activity and brain serotonin progressively decline. Hepatic tryptophan hydroxylase activity drops quickly to a constant, low level. With the exception of tryptophan hydroxylase, all of these parameters return towards normal upon continuous treatment. The magnitude of change varies with the age of the animal at initiation of dietary treatment and arises because of Differences in effective dosage and metabolism as the animals mature. A single phenylalanine injection produces a transient elevation in tissue phenylalanine levels without appreciably affecting brain serotonin. Repeated phenylalanine injections produce more marked alterations in tissue phenylalanine and tyrosine levels, lower activity of tryptophan hydroxylase, and increase serum adrenocorticoids; phenylalanine hydroxylase activity and brain serotonin levels are only marginally affected. These changes seriously complicate interpretations of time-consuming behavioral studies in experimental PKU.
Three-dimensional modeling of the global atmospheric sulfur cycle: A first step

Abstract Atmospheric sulfur is known to be a major source of condensation nuclei (CN). Over continents the major source of sulfur is believed to be SO2 emitted from industrial regions. Over remote marine regions, emission of biogenic dimethylsulfide (DMS) from the ocean surface is thought to be major source of non-sea-salt sulfate and of CN. Here we apply a global three-dimensional model with a simplified treatment of the atmospheric sulfur cycle to address the question of whether anthropogenic sulfur transported from continents might impact marine CN concentrations over a significant fraction of the world's oceans. Processes treated in the model include transport, convective and eddy mixing, a simplified treatment of the conversion of SO2 and DMS to form the condensate SO42−, removal of SO2 and SO42− by dry deposition and wet deposition of SO42−. Simulations for January, when DMS emissions are largest in the Southern Hemisphere, indicate that natural sulfate aerosol derived from marine emissions of DMS dominates anthropogenic sulfate over the Southern Hemisphere oceans. However, anthropogenic sources dominate CN concentrations over much of the Northern Hemisphere oceans, especially the North Atlantic, as well as continental regions. During July, when DMS emissions are largest in the Northern Hemisphere, natural sulfate concentrations are generally larger than anthropogenic sulfate concentrations in both hemispheres, and concentrations in the Northern Hemisphere are much higher than in the Southern Hemisphere. These results suggest that the influence of industrial emissions of SO2 on marine CN concentrations, and therefore marine cloud albedo, may be restricted to the Northern Hemisphere winter, when solar insolation and oceanic DMS production are lowest. However, these results are from a highly simplified model, and must therefore be regarded as preliminary.