cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gay Rights Legislative Wrongs: Representation of Gays and Lesbians

Over the past half-century, students of democratic representation have investigated the extent to which elected officials act as their constituents prefer. Less attention has been paid to the fact that in addition to popular sovereignty, however, modern republican democracy is characterized by the values of liberty and equality. Democratic theorists suggest that these latter values should prevail in cases of conflict when the issue in question speaks to citizens’ fundamental rights, as is the case with gay marriage. We examine this question of representation and responsiveness with respect to gay marriage, an issue of importance to the gay community — a small and intense group that struggles to achieve policy success. We find that neither majoritarian nor capture-based theories of representation fully account for the lack of elected official responsiveness to this particular constituent interest group. Instead, our evidence supports the theory of subconstituency politics. Consequently, we find little reason for optimism that legislation supporting gay marriage is likely to pass both because gay marriage is opposed by a competing subconstituency, Evangelical Christians, who are intense and larger in number and because the systemic design inhibits the ability of minority groups to succeed legislatively in the face of comparable minority opposition.
Characterizing the variation in pH measurements with apheresis platelets.

BACKGROUND: pH measurements of platelet (PLT) components remain a key parameter when assessing how storage and shipping conditions influence the retention of PLT properties. Studies were conducted to characterize variations in pH measured with two pH meters and a blood gas analyzer. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Samples were obtained from apheresis PLT units that were stored with or without continuous agitation to measure a range of pH values. pH values were determined with pH meters at room temperature (20-24°C) upon placing of samples in 5-mL sterile polypropylene tubes and with the blood gas analyzer at 37°C upon injection of identical samples, with conversion to 22°C. RESULTS: The calculated coefficient of variation (%CV) of pH measurements using pH meters (n = 10) was 0.43% or less. The %CV values were comparable with different samples having pH values ranging from 6.0 to 7.4. The %CV levels with the blood gas analyzer were comparable to those observed with the pH meters. The difference in the mean pH values for the two pH meters was no greater than 0.10 units, with 9 of 10 samples having differences in values of 0.05 or less; however, greater differences of values (0.1 to 0.2) were observed between pH measured using the blood gas analyzer and pH meters. CONCLUSION: Our data show good precision and comparability of pH measurements with two pH meters. Differences in pH values were greater on comparison of the blood gas analyzer with the pH meters.
Tectonic Implications and Influence of the Midcontinent Rift System in Nebraska and Adjoining Areas

southeastern Nebraska is underlain by Early Proterozoic rocks of the Central Plains (1600–1800 Ma) and Penokean (1830–1890Ma) Provinces. These rocks were intruded by Middle Proterozoic epizonal plutons (1340–1480 Ma). The Midcontinent rift System was imposed upon and reflects the pre-existing tectonic grain of the older basement. This correspondence of the trends of the Rift segments with older tectonic zones has been noted by Klasner et al. (1982), Carlson (1988a and 1988b) and Sims (1990). On the western limb of the Rift, the Lake Superior segment lies along the Great Lakes Tectonic Zone. The Minnesota and Iowa segments sub-parallel the Penokean Suture; the offset between these segments crosses this Suture. The Nebraska segment is an extension of the southwestward-trending faults within the Penokean of Wisconsin which in turn are reflected in the Paleozoic rocks across Iowa. The Kansas segment resulted from preexisting tectonics within the Central Plains Province. The distinct separation and difference in trends between the Nebraska and Kansas segments are probably indicative of the boundary between the Central Plains and Penokean Provinces.
Heat diode effect and negative differential thermal conductance across nanoscale metal-dielectric interfaces

Controlling heat flow by phononic nanodevices has received significant attention recently because of its fundamental and practical implications. Elementary phononic devices such as thermal rectifiers, transistors, and logic gates are essentially based on two intriguing properties: heat diode effect and negative differential thermal conductance. However, little is known about these heat transfer properties across metal-dielectric interfaces, especially at nanoscale. Here we analytically resolve the microscopic mechanism of the nonequilibrium nanoscale energy transfer across metal-dielectric interfaces, where the inelastic electron-phonon scattering directly assists the energy exchange. We demonstrate the emergence of heat diode effect and negative differential thermal conductance in nanoscale interfaces and explain why these novel thermal properties are usually absent in bulk metal-dielectric interfaces. These results will generate exciting prospects for the nanoscale interfacial energy transfer, which should have important implications in designing hybrid circuits for efficient thermal control and open up potential applications in thermal energy harvesting with low-dimensional nanodevices.
Phonon instabilities and the ideal strength of aluminum.

We have calculated the phonon spectra of aluminum as a function of strain using density functional perturbation theory for $⟨110⟩$, $⟨100⟩$, and $⟨111⟩$ uniaxial tension, as well as relaxed $⟨112⟩{111}$ shear. In all four cases, phonon instabilities occur at points away from the center of the Brillouin zone and intrude before the material becomes unstable according to elastic stability criteria. This is the first time the ideal strength of a metal has been shown to be dictated by instabilities in the acoustic phonon spectra. We go on to describe the crystallography of the unstable modes, all of which are shear in character. This work further suggests that shear failure is an inherent property of aluminum even in an initially dislocation-free perfect crystal.
Niobium oxide solution chemistry

The solution chemistry of niobium oxide in alkaline and acidic oxalate solutions was investigated by Raman spectroscopy in order to determine the molecular structures of the various aqueous niobium oxide species. The aqueous potassium niobate species were studied as a function of pH from 14.5 to 0.55. Different types of niobium oxide ionic species such as Hx Nb6O (x = 0–3), Nb12O and Nb2O5 · nH2O exist in aqueous solutions, and both the solution pH and niobium oxide concentration determine the different niobium oxide ionic species. The aqueous niobium oxide ionic species are unstable at pH 3.0. This study demonstrates the ability of Raman spectroscopy to determine directly the solution chemistry and molecular structures of niobium oxide species in aqueous solutions.
The Professional Fragmentation of Experience in the Study of Dissociation, Somatization, and Culture

Abstract The prevailing “dis-association” between the scientific studies of dissociation and somatization is discussed, particularly in reference to the general “decontextualization” of dissociative and somatic experiences from their sociocultural context. The claim is made that this constitutes a fragmentation, in the professional sense, of naturally related phenomena. Conceptual and sociohistorical factors are identified that, at least partly, seem to explain these artificial divisions. Empirical evidence of the co-morbidity of dissociative and somatic symptoms is reviewed and some proposed theoretical notions are discussed. The role of cultural factors in shaping dissociative and somatic experiences is examined at the levels of (a) awareness of an event, (b) significance ofthat event, (c) emotional response, (d) locus of experience (i.e., somatic or psychological), (e) symptomatic response, and (f) social interaction. The practical relevance of recognizing the relationship among dissociation, somatizat...
Efficient helium recondensing using a 4 K pulse tube cryocooler

Abstract This paper introduces helium recondensing in a 4000 l dewar using a 4 K pulse tube cryocooler at Amundsen–Scott research station at the South Pole. The helium dewar has a normal boil-off rate of 14 l/day. Two features of cooling the dewar neck by helium vapor and precooling helium gas to be liquefied ensured high efficiency of the pulse tube recondenser in this application. The liquefier/recondenser has being successfully operating in the dewar at South Pole station since February 2005. It not only maintains zero boil-off of the dewar, but also liquefies helium gas supplied from outside of the dewar with a rate around 2.7 l/day.
Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Selected U.S. Municipal Solid Waste Composts

Municipal solid waste (MSW) composting has been increasingly recognized as a promising alternative for solid waste management. Because of the variation in both geographic origin (thus feed stock) and composting technology, the properties of MSW composts generated in various regions are likely to be different. In this study, 10 composts were collected from different facilities throughout the USA. Elemental composition and some physical properties were determined. Trace elements and organic C were partitioned into water soluble, exchangeable, complexed, organically bound, mineral particulate, and residue forms based on sequential extraction with H{sub 2}O, 1 M KCl, 0.1 M Na{sub 4}P{sub 2}O{sub 7}, 0.1 M NaOH, and 4 M HNO{sub 3}, respectively. Substantial variabilities were observed in both chemical and physical properties among the MSW composts generated in different facilities. Our results indicate that the trace element contents of MSW composts are in general lower than the average trace elements reported for sewage sludges, and below the pollutant concentrations (PC) for sewage sludges regulated by USEPA. The exception is for Pb, which was higher in some of the MSW composts than the average Pb content in sewage sludges and exceeds the PC. Solid particulate was the dominant form of Cd, Mn, Cu,more » and Pb, but the majority of Zn was organically complexed. Both solid particulate and residue were dominant forms of compost Cr and Ni. The differences in distribution patterns of trace elements in the MSW composts studied indicate that these elements will vary in their potential mobility and bioavailability in the environment. 39 refs., 3 figs., 9 tabs.« less
Nonlinear Ultics Of Liquid Crystals: Collective Reorientation Effects

The largest contribution to the nonlinear susceptibility of liquid crystalline materials arises from the effects of optical fields on orientational order. One mechanism of fundamental importance is the collective reorientation of the molecules by the radiation field which couples to the orientation via the polarizability anisotropy. The reorienting torque of the optical field is in general opposed by surface and elastic torques, and hence the response of the system depends on the sample geometry and surface anchoring effects. We consider the details of the interaction between the radiation field and the liquid crystalline medium and examine the nature of optical field induced elastic deformations. These reorientation effects can give rise to technologically important phenomena such as optical bistability and optical field induced scattering. We compare the predictions of theory with the results of recent experiments on homogeneous liquid crystals and on composite polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) films.
Temporomandibular disorders and facial pain: a psychophysiological perspective.

This article presents a psychophysiological perspective on temporomandibular muscle and joint disorders (TMJD) and facial pain. After a brief introduction to TMJD, the article presents data, largely derived from work carried out in my laboratory, that address four questions: (1) What are the consequences of parafunctional activities? (2) Do TMJD patients engage in parafunctional activities? (3) Why are TMJD patients unaware of these activities? and (4) What are the implications of these findings for treatment? The findings suggest that low-level parafunctions increase pain in otherwise pain-free individuals and can produce symptoms sufficiently severe to meet the diagnostic criteria for TMJD diagnoses of myofascial pain and/or arthralgia. Patients with certain forms of TMJD report very high levels of parafunctional tooth contact. Their lack of awareness of these behaviors may arise from uncertain definitions of the term “clenching”, from proprioceptive deficits, or from the presence of adjunctive behaviors. Preliminary work shows that reduction in tooth contact via habit reversal techniques may be a promising mechanism for reducing pain in these patients.
Taming vessels to treat cancer.

This article updates readers on promising developments in the treatment of cancer. Abnormal and malfunctioning blood vessels are a standard of solid tumors and they contribute to the malignancy of a cancer and prevent treatments from attacking the rogue tumor cells. Researchers found that if they could normalize the blood vessels, the cancer medications would get into the tumors and work more effectively. INSETS: ABNORMAL VESSELS MAKE TROUBLE;Vessel Repair: Beyond Cancer.
Choice of starting dose and escalation for phase I studies of antitumor agents.

The standard approaches to initial dose selection and dose escalation in phase I trials may be inappropriately conservative. These approaches mandate accrual of large numbers of patients, most of whom are treated at low and potentially ineffective doses. We compared the clinically determined maximum tolerable dose (MTD) with the starting dose of 45 drugs that had undergone phase I studies during the period 1977–1989. We also examined the number of dose-escalation steps required to achieve the MTD in relation to nonhematologic and hematologic dose-limiting toxicity. The median ratio of MTD to starting dose for all drugs was 20 (range, <1–433) and the median number of dose levels studied to reach the MTD was 8 (range, 0–23). For drugs with nonhematologic dose-limiting toxicity, the median ratio of MTD to starting dose was 30 (range, 3–385) as compared with 12.8 (range, <1–433) for those with hematologic dose-limiting toxicity (P=0.023). The median number of dose-escalation steps required to reach the MTD was 9 (range, 2–18) for drugs with nonhematologic dose-limiting toxicity as compared with 5.5 (range, 0–23) for those with hematologic dose-limiting toxicity (P=0.038). We also examined the response rate for 1,110 patients treated with 21 phase-I-study drugs for which response information was available. Responses were reported for 29 patients (2.6%). Among the 476 patients treated at the 3 highest dose steps, 17 responded (3.6%), which is double the response rate obtained at the lower doses (P=0.08). It is suggested that although the usual methods for choosing starting doses and dose-escalation schemes for phase I studies are safe, they are overly conservative and delay opportunities for therapeutic benefit in phase I and subsequent phase II trials.
Are Emergency Department Patients at Risk for Herb—Drug Interactions?

OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of herbal and/or dietary supplement use and identify patients at risk for herb-drug interactions. METHODS A convenience sample of 944 patients were surveyed to determine the prevalence and types of supplements used. Patients with heart disease, diabetes, psychiatric disorders, and/or hypertension were assessed for potential interactions. RESULTS One hundred thirty-five (14.3%) patients reported regular use. Of these, 79.3% were taking supplements concurrently with prescription medications, and 80.0% were administered medication(s) in the emergency department. Cardiac: 19.8% (n = 33) reported regular use, with four potential interactions. Hypertension: 20.3% (n = 54) reported regular use, with two potential interactions. Diabetes: 15.9% (n = 20) reported regular use, with no known interactions. Psychiatric: 15.9% (n = 10) reported regular use, with one potential interaction. CONCLUSIONS Six patients were identified at risk for seven known herb-drug interactions. The prevalence of undisclosed herbal supplement use and lack of research on these supplements suggest that more patients may be at risk.
Oughts v. Ends: Seeking an Ethical Normative Standard for Journal Acceptance Rate Calculation Methods

As a leading measure of journal quality, acceptance rates of journals can influence faculty recruitment, salary, tenure and promotion decisions; subscription decisions; and authors’ intention to submit manuscripts. Recent literature from both the Communication and Hospitality Management disciplines suggests that there are wide differences in the formulas used by editors to calculate acceptance rates. Because differing methods of acceptance rate calculation potentially impact significant decisions, a universally accepted and applied standard could be developed. A normative standard, grounded in a specific core ethical principle, is generally preferable to a nonfoundational approach. Two primary approaches to the study of ethics have prevailed through time, teleological ethics with a focus on consequences as represented by Mill’s Utilitarian ideals and deontological ethics with a focus on duty as represented by Kant’s Categorical Imperative. This analysis applies these two ethical frameworks, utility and duty, to the journal editors’ dilemma of finding a common, normative method to calculate acceptance rates.
Agrin induces α-actinin, filamin, and vinculin to Co-localize with AChR clusters on cultured chick myotubes

Agrin induces discrete high-density patches of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) and other synaptic components on cultured myotubes in a manner that resembles synaptic differentiation. Furthermore, agrin-like molecules are present at developing neuromuscular junctions in vivo. This provides us with a unique opportunity to manipulate AChR patching in order to examine the role of cytoskeletal components. Cultured chick myotubes were fixed and labeled to visualize the distributions of actin, alpha-actinin, filamin, tropomyosin, and vinculin. Overnight exposure to agrin caused a small amount of alpha-actinin, filamin, and vinculin to reorganize into discrete clusters. Double-labeling studies revealed that 78% of the AChR clusters were associated with detectable concentrations of filamin, 70% with alpha-actinin, and 58% with vinculin. Filamin even showed congruence to AChRs within clustered regions. By contrast, actin (visualized with fluorescein-phalloidin) and tropomyosin did not show specific associations with agrin-induced AChR clusters. The accumulation of cytoskeletal components at AChRs clusters raised the possibility that cytoskeletal rearrangements direct AChR clustering. However, a time course of agrin-induced clustering that focused on filamin revealed that most of the early AChR clusters (3-6 h) were not associated with detectable amounts of cytoskeletal material. The accumulation of cytoskeletal material at later times (12-18 h) may imply a role in maintenance and stabilization, but it appears unlikely that these cytoskeletal elements initiate AChR clustering on myotubes.
The effect of pressure and temperature on the absorption edges of three silver halides

Abstract The effect of pressure to 160 kilobars, combined with temperature to 400°C has been measured on the absorption edge of AgCl, AgBr, and AgI. The behavior of AgCl and of AgBr is nearly identical. In the low pressure (f.c.c.) phase there is a red shift with pressure at low temperature. At high temperature the edge shirts blue with increasing pressure. A possible explanation in terms of the defect structure is proposed. The high pressure phase shows a normal red shift with pressure at all temperatures. The behaviour of AgI in the f.c.c. phase is anomalous both at room temperature and at elevated temperature.
Pharmacokinetics of methadone.

Methadone is a synthetic opioid that is effective for the relief of moderate-to-severe pain and for the treatment of opioid dependence. The pharmacokinetics of methadone differ from those of morphi...
Modified approach to the construction of a blue noise mask

The blue noise mask (BNM) is a halftone screen that produces unstructured, visually pleasing halftone images. Since it is a point process, halftoning using the BNM can be implemented considerably faster than error diffusion and other algorithms. However, in the construction of the original BNM, a number of constraints were used to limit its characteristics in the spatial and frequency domains. These constraints were not efficient to compute and required adaptability to all gray levels in the construction process. The original BNM also contained some small but unwanted low-frequency components at some gray levels. In this paper, we present a revised approach to the generation of blue noise patterns and the construction of BNMs employing more efficient computations and eliminating more unwanted residual low-frequency components. Psychovisual evaluation shows that dithering with the new BNM gives excellent results and its rating is statistically indistinguishable from that of error diffusion with serpentine raster and perturbed weights.
How legal analysts negotiate indeterminacy of meaning in common law rules: toward a synthesis of linguistic and cognitive approaches to investigation

Abstract This article critiques linguistic and cognitive approaches to investigating and describing how legal analysts interpret indeterminacy of meaning in legal rules. It argues that linguistic approaches need real-time cognitive data to support claims about the ways legal analysts respond to indeterminacies, rather than relying on theoretical exegesis alone. Conversely, cognitive approaches need linguistic analysis to reveal how different discourse processing environments may shape the interpretation of indeterminate legal language. And both approaches need studies in which legal analysts’ professional roles, communication tasks, and interpretative contexts are examined as components. The article demonstrates a synthesis of linguistic and cognitive approaches with an empirical study of 42 legal analysts asked to interpret a common law rule in the context of three different problem scenarios.
Studies on the chemistry of the transforming activity. I. Resistance to physical and chemical agents.

The transforming principles of Hemophilus influenzae have been purified by a new method including fractional extraction. The active molecule behaves in these extractions like the bulk of the DNA preparation. The minimal amount of DNA necessary for transformation appeared to be of the same order of magnitude as the amount of DNA in a single cell. Quantitative study has been made of the resistance of transforming activity to various agents. When subjected to heat, the temperature at which the activity starts to decrease corresponds rather closely to the temperature at which the viscosity of the bulk of the DNA preparations starts to decrease. Similar correspondence was found when the transforming principle was subjected to pH changes. This is further evidence that the behavior of the active molecules is similar to the behavior of the average DNA molecule of the preparation. The activity is reduced by exposure to low ionic strength and by dehydration. Desoxyribonuclease in concentrations less than 10–4 γ/cc. is able to destroy the activity; a lag period during which the activity but not the viscosity decreases has been observed. NaNO2 at pH 5.3, HCHO and 10–5 M Fe++ reduce or destroy the activity; the importance of intact amino groups in the DNA molecule for the activity is discussed. Several protein-denaturing, sterilizing, and mutagenic agents have been found to have no effect on the transforming activity.
Public Advertising by Cancer Centers: Are More Data Needed?

In this issue, Vater and colleagues present a content analysis of advertisements for cancer centers appearing on television and in magazines. The editorialist discusses the analysis and its implica...
The Outcomes and Cost of Hysterectomy: Comparing Abdominal, Vaginal, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Approaches

Options for approach to hysterectomy include abdominal, vaginal, laparoscopic or robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery. There are well-documented benefits to minimally invasive modes of surgery compared to traditional abdominal procedures. Despite this fact, the majority of hysterectomies in the United States are still performed via laparotomy. With regard to differentiation between the various minimally invasive approaches, it has been consistently demonstrated that robotic hysterectomy procedures are associated with longer operative times and higher cost. However, the available literature is limited by the small number of randomized or prospective studies comparing surgical approach to hysterectomy.
Angioid streaks and systemic disease.

SUMMARY A review of angioid streaks is presented. Their frequency of occurrence and relation to certain disorders are discussed. They are most commonly seen in pseudoxanthoma elasticum, Paget's disease of bone and sickle cell anaemia. The basic defects of these diseases are examined. It is concluded that angioid streaks may be a manifestation of certain mesodermal tissue disorders, all of which manifest vascular abnormalities. The presence of angioid streaks in a patient demands a thorough investigation for underlying connective tissue disorders.
Non-asphyxiating tracheobronchial foreign bodies in adults

The presentations of 47 adult patients with a non-asphyxiating tracheobronchial foreign body were reviewed. The duration of residence of the foreign body was 1 week or less in nine ("acute group"); 1 month or more in 29 ("chronic group"), uncertain in four ("uncertain group"); and the foreign body was a broncholith in five patients ("broncholith group"). In the chronic and uncertain groups, no precipitating factor was found and bone was the most common foreign body. In the chronic group, a choking history was obtained before bronchoscopy in only 15 patient. Clinical manifestations and roentgenograms were nonspecific in most cases, except in the acute group. In the chronic group, the mean duration of residence of the foreign body was 25.8 months. The diagnosis was delayed due to absence of a choking history and invisibility of the foreign body on chest films in 12, due to patient's ignorance in 14, due to physician's ignorance in 1, and due to previous unsuccessful retrieval attempts in 2 patients. The main indication for bronchoscopy in the acute group was a choking history or a visible foreign body on the chest film. In the chronic group, a choking history or conditions leading to "suspicion of an endobronchial lesion" were the main indications. The foreign body was removed with a fibreoptic bronchoscope in over 90% of patients. It is concluded that the most important diagnostic factor is a high clinical index of suspicion and that flexible fibreoptic bronchoscopy provides a valuable therapeutic option in selected conditions.
Ultrastructure of the sinus wall of murine bone marrow in myelogenous leukemia

The ultrastructure of bone marrow of RF mice having an acute myelogenous leukemia induced by inoculation with leukemic cells was investigated. In several respects sinuses of leukemic marrow are similar to normal marrow. Sinuses are present in numbers approximating that of the normal; the lining cells of the sinus wall have organelles similar in distribution and number to those of normal lining cells; the sinus wall is continuous, having openings only in conjunction with blood cells that are migrating through it (migration pores); migration pores occur within and not between lining cells. Abnormalities observed in leukemic marrow are the occurrence of virus-like particles in leukemic cells, the presence of numerous particles 300 to 500 A in diameter in the extracellular space, reduction in the number of adventitial cells of the sinus wall and an increase in the thickness and distribution of extracellular material located near the basal surface of lining cells.
Determination of arsenic in organic compounds rapid micro and semimicro methods

Abstract Rapid micro and semimicro methods for determination of arsenic in organic compounds have been developed using 28% chloric acid as the digesting agent for the organic arsenical. This wet acid digestion procedure does not lead to loss of arsenic even in the presence of 4 M chloride. The semimicro method completes the assay by reduction of the pentavalent arsenic with iodide, destruction of the iodine liberated with thiosulfate and re-oxidation to pentavalent arsenic with iodine in a buffered solution. The micro method completes the assay by development of a heteropoly molybdenum blue using a single solution reagent at room temperature. The color is reproducible so that only a single calibration curve for the instrument used is necessary.
Cochleosaccular pathology after perinatal and postnatal asphyxia: histopathologic findings.

Objective: This study describes the histopathologic findings of a patient with severe bilateral sensorineural hearing loss after perinatal and postnatal hypoxia and asphyxia. Study Design: Histopathologic examination on the temporal bones. Setting: The study was performed at the Elizabeth McCullough Knowles Otopathology Laboratory, Division of Otopathology. Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, U.S.A. Results: Histopathologic examination on the left temporal bone revealed severe atrophy of the organ of Corti throughout the entire cochlea, decrease in the number of the spiral ganglion cells especially in the basal turn, and mild atrophy of saccular macula. In the right temporal bone, similar abnormalities were observed in the inner ear, but the changes were milder than those in the left temporal bone. No other distinct pathologic finding was observed in either ear. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the presence of severe hypoxic ischemia causes cochleosaccular atrophy. To our knowledge, this is the first histopathologic case report describing the long-term effect of perinatal and postnatal hypoxia and asphyxia that produced cochleosaccular abnormalities in the human inner ear.
Calculation of point-to-point short-time and rare trajectories with boundary value formulation

Sampling rare, short-time, and reactive trajectories is of considerable interest in molecular simulations. These trajectories, which are also called "activated", hop between stable states separated by energy or entropy barriers. Simulations of activated trajectories with random sampling of initial conditions are inefficient, since most initial conditions lead to trajectories that do not pass the barrier in short times. A boundary value formulation is proposed that selects these rare trajectories, making the sampling of point-to-point reactive trajectories more effective. Earlier boundary value formulations by one of us focused on computations of approximate trajectories. In the proposed method, trajectories are accurate even when we employ a relatively large integration step (by a factor of about 100 compared to initial value methods). The boundary value solutions to short-time reactive trajectories tend to be unique and have significant statistical weights compared to other reactive trajectories of the microcanonical ensemble. Three numerical examples are considered: a transition in the Mueller potential, a conformational change in alanine dipeptide, and an isomerization in a Lennard-Jones cluster.
Implementation of a multiple input converter using fuzzy logic control for a stand-alone photovoltaic system

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are increasingly being used as distributive generation sources for renewable energy despite their low solar energy conversion to the grid. PV modules have nonlinear characteristics that are determined by solar irradiance and temperature which influences the overall output power of the system. To account for these nonlinearities, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques are implemented to boost the efficiency of the photovoltaic system. A Cuk-Cuk-Cuk Multiple Input Converter (MIC) is presented to accommodate PV sources with different electrical characteristics for simultaneously transferring power to a load. In this paper, a fuzzy logic controller is used to control a Cuk-Cuk-Cuk MIC to extract the maximum power from the PV sources to charge a 12 volt battery. This technique is compared with the Perturb and observe (P&O) algorithm and the results show that the fuzzy logic controller improves the overall performance of the MIC.
Aging modifies the expression of hepatic microsomal cytochromes P-450 after pretreatment of rats with β-naphthoflavone or phenobarbital

Abstract The various forms of hepatic cytochrome P-450 respond differentially to aging and induction. We examined the levels of six forms of cytochrome P-450, designated as Forms 1 through 5 and Form b, as a function of age and induction. Radial immunodiffusion analysis of rat liver microsomes indicate that cytochrome P-450 Forms 1 and 2 respond to induction by β-naphthoflavone or phenobarbital less well in aging rats than in young rats. β-naphthoflavone is less effective in inducing Forms 3, 4, and 5 in aging rats than in young rats. Phenobarbital, however, is more effective in inducing Forms 3 and 4 in aging rats than in young rats but does not induce Form 5 in either young or aging rats. Although Form b is induced predominately by phenobarbital, β-naphthoflavone induces Form b moderately in aging rats. Phenobarbital induces Form b to approximately the same extent in aging rats and in young rats. In untreated rats Form 2 is the predominant form, while Forms 1 and 3 are present in moderate amounts. The results of the immunodiffusion analysis were confirmed by the resolution and partial purification of cytochromes P-450 from microsomes of aging and young rats pretreated with β-naphthoflavone or phenobarbital. These results identify changes with age in specific forms of cytochrome P-450 as a function of the aging process in rats.
Adhesive Contact of a Membrane with a Hemispherical Indenter: Theoretical Analysis and Model Liquid System

The axisymmetric Laplace equation is solved numerically to extract contact-angle data for a flat liquid/vapor interface contacting a submerged hemispherical solid. The liquid/vapor interface is treated as a membrane, with a membrane tension equal to the surface energy of the liquid. By measuring the vertical displacement of the membrane and the projected contact area the membrane makes with the hemisphere, the contact angle and correspondingly the driving force for motion of the contact line can be measured. We show that characteristic receding and advancing contact angles can be obtained by measuring the contact radii formed upon initial contact between the interface and hemisphere and final contact just prior to detachment of the interface, respectively. Use of the technique is illustrated with a model experiment involving the contact of an air/water interface with a poly(methyl methacrylate) surface.
Empirical model of nitric oxide in the lower thermosphere

[1] The Student Nitric Oxide Explorer (SNOE) satellite made near-continuous measurements of nitric oxide in the lower thermosphere (97.5 km to 150 km) between March 1998 and September 2000. Using eigenanalysis, this daily nitric oxide data set is represented as a time mean plus the sum of orthogonal functions of space multiplied by time-varying coefficients. The functions, typically called empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs), are ordered by the amount of variance they capture from the original data set. While this analysis in no way guarantees that the modes of variability identified by the EOFs are associated with physical processes, we show that it is clearly so for the first three EOFs of the SNOE data set. The dominant mode of variability is associated with auroral activity, followed by a seasonal effect, and then a response to varying solar EUV flux. As a result, it is possible to construct a compact, three-dimensional nitric oxide empirical model (NOEM) in the lower thermosphere that takes as input a planetary magnetic index, day of year, and 10.7 cm solar radio flux. Since it is possible that changes in lower thermospheric nitric oxide could lead to changes in stratospheric ozone, the model presented here can be utilized in climate simulations without the need to incorporate many thermospheric processes.
Florida current spin-off eddies

Abstract Analysis of one year of near-surface current meter records from the narrow coastal zone inside the Florida Current off Boca Raton and Pompano, Florida, shows the occurrence of a large number of cyclonic current reversals that are not wind or tide induced. The reversals are accompanied by an advection of heat and salt into the coastal region and are interpreted as cyclonic eddies which spin off the western edge of the Florida Current and become entrained northward through the coastal waters. A kinematic model, combining a moving vortex pair with a uniform background current, is used to determine the spatial dimensions, phase speed, and circulation of spin-off eddies. Typical east-west dimensions are on the order of 10 km with the north-south lengths being 2 to 3 times greater. The characteristics translation speed is approximately 25 cm s−1 to the north. Energy spectra show maximum energy peaks that are believed to be associated with the occurrence of eddies at intervals of 1 to 2 days and lateral meandering of the Florida Current inshore front with several-day periods.
Anal sex is a behavioural marker for laboratory-confirmed vaginal sexually transmissible infections and HIV-associated risk among African-American female adolescents

Background: African-American females are disproportionately affected by HIV and sexually transmissible infections (STIs). The prevalence of anal sex and its association with other sexual risk behaviours is understudied in this population. Methods: Participants were 715 African-American females, 15 to 21 years old, who had reported sexual activity in the previous 60 days. Data collection included an audiocomputer assisted self-interview (ACASI) and a self-collected vaginal swab specimen assayed using nucleic acid amplification tests to detect the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and real-time polymerase chain reaction assay to detect Trichomonas vaginalis. Results: Approximately 10.5% reported anal sex, at least once, during the 60 days before completing the computerised baseline assessment. The prevalence of any STI was significantly greater among adolescents reporting recent anal sex (40% tested positive for at least one of three laboratory-confirmed STIs) relative to those adolescents not reporting anal sex (27.5% STI prevalence). Of the 10 outcomes comprising the sexual risk profile, seven achieved bivariate significance, with each of the differences indicating greater risk for those recently engaging in anal sex. In multivariable controlled analyses, six of the seven measures retained statistical significance. Conclusions: African-American adolescent females who engage in penile-anal sex may experience an elevated risk of vaginally-acquired STIs. The findings suggest that, among those having penile-anal sex, several HIV/STI-associated sexual risk behaviours are significantly more prevalent. Thus, penile-anal sex may be an important proxy of overall sexual risk behaviours and can be readily assessed during paediatrician visits as part of a sexual history.
Spelling Error Patterns of Normal, Learning-Disabled, and Underprepared College Writers

The spelling performance of normally achieving, learning-disabled, and underprepared college writers was examined across three measures to determine which, if any, measures were effective in differentiating among the three groups. The types of spelling errors made by each group also were examined. Results indicated that the Wide Range Achievement Test-Revised spelling subtest effectively distinguished among groups, while the other measures only distinguished between adequate (normal) and poor (learning-disabled and underprepared) writers. A modified version of Cromer's spelling error analysis was applied to a spontaneous writing sample and revealed no significant group differences with respect to type of spelling error between normal and underprepared writers. However, significant differences were found between the learning-disabled writers and both the normal and underprepared writers on all the spelling error types except spelling-rule errors.
The role of economic analysis in groundwater management in semi-arid regions: the case of Nigeria

The aim of this paper is to use an economic framework to derive decision making rules for river basin management with a focus on groundwater resources. Using an example from northern Nigeria, the paper provides an example of how decision making for sustainable water resources management may be facilitated by comparing net benefits and costs across a river basin. It is argued that economic tools can be used to assess the value of water resources in different uses, identify and analyze management scenarios, and provide decision rules for the sustainable use and management of surface and ground water resources in the region.
Imbrian-age highland volcanism on the moon: the gruithuisen and mairan domes.

The Gruithuisen and Mairan domes on the moon represent morphologically and spectrally distinct nonmare extrusive volcanic features of Imbrian age. The composition, morphology, and age relationships of the domes indicate that nonmare extrusive volcanism in the northern Procellarum region of the moon continued until about 3.3 x 10 to the 9th to 3.6 x 10 to the 9th years ago and was partially contemporaneous with the emplacement of the main sequence of mare deposits.
Stimulation of somatotropin secretion following peripheral administration of the tripeptide, syndyphalin 33 in sheep, pigs and rats.

Abstract In the present study, a simple tripeptide alkylamine, syndyphalin 33 (SD33, Tyr-DMet(O)-Gly-methylphenethylamide) was shown to stimulate somatotropin (GH) secretion in sheep, hogs and rats following peripheral administration. Intravenous (i.v.) administration of SD33 at doses of 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 μmol/kg stimulated a significant increase in circulating GH levels in sheep within 5 minutes post-injection. This response was not attenuated following repeated i.v. injections of SD33 (0.05 μmol/kg) administered at 2 hour intervals. In addition, plasma GH levels were significantly stimulated following either subcutaneous (s.c.) or oral administration of SD33 in hogs and rats. Subcutaneous administration of SD33 at doses of 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0μmol/kg stimulated a significant increase in plasma GH concentrations within 30 minutes of injection in both species. Oral administration of SD33 at 1.0, 10 or 100 μmol/kg in rats resulted in a significant elevation in plasma GH levels which peaked at 30 minutes post-gavage. In the pig, circulating GH levels were significantly increased within 30 minutes post-ingestion and remained elevated for at least 2 hours at the 2.0 μmol/kg dose level. The ability of naloxone to block SD33-stimulated GH secretion suggests that this peptide acts via mu opiate receptors.
Clinical policy: critical issues in the evaluation and management of adult patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes.

Andy S. Jagoda, MD (Chair 2003-2006) Wyatt W. Decker, MD Jonathan A. Edlow, MD Francis M. Fesmire, MD Steven A. Godwin, MD Sigrid A. Hahn, MD (EMRA Representative 2003-2004, Committee member 2005-2006) John M. Howell, MD J. Stephen Huff, MD JoAnn Lazarus, RN, MSN, CEN (ENA Representative 2003) Thomas W. Lukens, MD, PhD Donna L. Mason, RN, MS, CEN (ENA Representative 2004-2006) Michael Moon, RN, CNS, MSN, CEN (ENA
Why the profession of occupational therapy will flourish in the 21st century. The 1996 Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lecture

The use of occupation as a therapeutic method is the essence of the profession of occupational therapy. This core of therapeutic occupation is flexible across cultures, times, health care environments, and different philosophies of the nature of the human being. Given this adaptability, the profession espouses diverse models of practice--the multiple frames of reference that guide therapeutic occupation for different populations in different settings. Across the history of the profession, therapeutic occupation has been the common core of otherwise different approaches to intervention. Although each of the many past and current models of practice has a different viewpoint, the common factor is the synthesis of occupational forms designed to elicit meaningful and purposeful occupational performance. Occupational synthesis is the essential act of the occupational therapist. It is necessary that occupational therapists confirm the power of therapeutic occupation through research that examines the profession's central principles. Occupational therapists are also urged to use the term occupation consistently and proudly in their interactions with recipients of therapy, fellow health care professionals, and each other. The profession of occupational therapy will flourish because occupation, its core, is so basic to human health yet so flexible, depending on the needs of the individual human being.
Tissue factor structure and function.

Tissue factor (TF) is an integral membrane protein that is essential to life. It is a component of the factor VIIa-TF complex enzyme and plays a primary role in both normal hemostasis and thrombosis. With a vascular injury, TF becomes exposed to blood and binds plasma factor VIIa, and the resulting complex initiates a series of enzymatic reactions leading to clot formation and vascular sealing. Many cells, both healthy, and tumor cells, produce detectable amounts of TF, especially when they are stimulated by various agents. Despite the relative simplicity and small size of TF, there are numerous contradictory reports about the synthesis and presentation of TF on blood cells and circulation in normal blood either on microparticles or as a soluble protein. Another subject of controversy is related to the structure/function of TF. It has been almost commonly accepted that cell-surface-associated TF has low (if any) activity, that is, is “encrypted” and requires specific conditions/reagents to become active, that is, “decrypted.” However there is a lack of agreement related to the mechanism and processes leading to alterations in TF function. In this paper TF structure, presentation, and function, and controversies concerning these features are discussed.