cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rapid force production in the cochlea

Abstract Electrical stimulation of the mammalian cochlea causes a mechanical response which produces acoustic signals at the frequency of the electrical current. These electrically-evoked acoustic emissions can be as large as 34 dB SPL. Concurrent acoustic stimuli can enhance the emission response. Comparison of the enhancement effect with the cochlear microphonic (CM) suggests that the emissions originate from the outer hair cells (OHC). Frequency response measurements indicate a rate-limiting time constant for the force-generating process which is less than 35 μ s.
A validated HPLC method for the determination of pyridostigmine bromide, acetaminophen, acetylsalicylic acid and caffeine in rat plasma and urine

A method was developed for the separation and quantification of the anti-nerve agent pyridostigmine bromide (PB; 3-dimethylaminocarbonyloxy-N-methyl pyridinium bromide), the analgesic drugs acetaminophen and acetylsalicylic acid, and the stimulant caffeine (3,7-dihydro-1,3,7-trimethyl-1-H-purine-2,6-dione) in rat plasma and urine. The compounds were extracted using C(18) Sep-Pak(R) cartridges then analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with reversed phase C18 column, and UV detection at 280 nm. The compounds were separated using gradient of 1-85% acetonitrile in water (pH 3.0) at a flow rate ranging between 1 and 1.5 ml/min in a period of 14 min. The retention times ranged from 8.8 to 11.5 min. The limits of detection were ranged between 100 and 200 ng/ml, while limits of quantitation were 150-200 ng/ml. Average percentage recovery of five spiked plasma samples were 70.9+/-9.5, 73.7+/-9.8, 88.6+/-9.3, 83.9+/-7.8, and from urine 69.1+/-8.5, 74.5+/-8.7, 85.9+/-9.8, 83.2+/-9.3, for pyridostigmine bromide, acetaminophen, acetylsalicylic acid and caffeine, respectively. The relationship between peak areas and concentration was linear over range between 100 and 1000 ng/ml. The resulting chromatograms showed no interfering peaks from endogenous plasma or urine components. This method was applied to analyze these compounds following oral administration in rats.
Social game for building energy efficiency: Incentive design

We present analysis and results of a social game encouraging energy efficient behavior in occupants by distributing points which determine the likelihood of winning in a lottery. We estimate occupants utilities and formulate the interaction between the building manager and the occupants as a reversed Stackelberg game in which there are multiple followers that play in a non-cooperative game. The estimated utilities are used for determining the occupant behavior in the non-cooperative game. Due to nonconvexities and complexity of the problem, in particular the size of the joint distribution across the states of the occupants, we solve the resulting the bilevel optimization problem using a particle swarm optimization method. Drawing from the distribution across player states, we compute the Nash equilibrium of the game using the resulting leader choice. We show that the behavior of the agents under the leader choice results in greater utility for the leader.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of the Density and Surface Tension of Water by PPPM Method

This paper presents a molecular simulation study of the density and surface tension of a water film for a range of temperatures from 300K to 600K. The extended simple point charge (SPC/E) [1] interaction potential for water is used with full Ewald summation. The PPPM method, which automatically include untrucated the long-range terms, is applied instead of using the tail correction. The normal and tangential components of the pressure tensor were calculated and are presented at 352K. Results show that the calculated density and surface tension of water fit well with experimental data for temperatures less than 500K.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Illuminants as visualization tool for clinical diagnostics and surgery

The requirements for diagnostic and surgical lighting have remained largely unchanged over the past several years-illumination level, glare, shadow and tissue heating reduction are the dominant factors in choosing a lighting system. Since human visual perception remains the key tool in clinical diagnostics and surgery, it is worth exploring ways to heighten visual contrast between areas of interest with respect to surrounding tissues. A simulation program for predicting test illuminant spectral distribution that would enhance contrast between standard color patches typical of tissue color is used. Data images of the color patches under the predicted test illuminant as realized using a spectrally tunable source are collected. Details of the simulation program, the equipment used for this test and results of the test will be discussed.
IN VITRO UPTAKE OF C14-LABELED ALANINE AND GLUCOSE BY ASCARIDIA GALLI (NEMATODA) OF CHICKENS.

Abstract This is a study of the permeability of the cuticle of Ascaridia galli to dl -alanine-1-C14 and d -glucose-1-C14. Celloidin was used to occlude the natural body openings of male and female worms, as thread-ligatures were considered to produce excessive tissue damage. Celloidin-coated and noncoated worms were exposed to either 15 ml (9.3 × 10−5M) of labeled alanine (5.0 μc) or 15 ml (1.1 × 10−4M) of labeled glucose (5.0 μc) for 1 or 2 hours. The cuticle proved permeable to both compounds. A portion of the total uptake resulted from cuticular absorption. It was hypothesized that the remainder resulted from ingestion. The amount of alanine and glucose absorbed by the coated worms was a function of the exposed body surface. Approximately 2.6 times more glucose than alanine was absorbed. Fasting had little effect on cuticular absorption by coated worms. However, the amount of uptake by noncoated worms was conditioned by fasting. All worms exposed to the labeled compounds were analyzed for C14 distribution. Analyses of noncoated worms exposed to alanine showed that they incorporated 23 and 32% of the C14 into the lipid and water fractions, respectively. The corresponding percentages for the coated worms were 39 and 22. This inverse relationship may have resulted from the slow absorption of ingested alanine. Noncoated worms exposed to glucose contained 19 and 38% of the C14 in the lipid and water fractions, respectively. The corresponding percentages for the coated worms were 22 and 35. Rapid phosphorylation and subsequent absorption of the glucose seemingly prevented the inverse relationship reported for alanine. Isolated tissue analyses of coated worms indicated that the compounds passed through the cuticle, because approximately 50% of the recovered C14 was in the perienteric fluid.
A fundamental study of chromium deposition on solid oxide fuel cell cathode materials

Abstract Chromium contamination of metal oxides and SOFC cathode catalysts is studied in the range 700–1000 °C. Samples are exposed to a moist air atmosphere saturated with volatile Cr species in the presence and absence of direct contact between the sample and ferritic stainless steel powder. Chromium contamination of the samples is observed to occur via two separate pathways: surface diffusion from the stainless steel surface and vapor deposition from the atmosphere. Surface diffusion dominates in all cases. Surface diffusion is found to be a significant source of Cr contamination for LSM and LSCF at 700, 800, and 1000 °C. Vapor deposition of Cr onto LSCF was observed at each of these temperatures, but was not observed for LSM at 700 or 800 °C. Comparison of the behavior for LSM, LSCF, and single metal oxides suggests that Mn and Co, respectively, are responsible for the Cr contamination of these catalysts.
Immersive virtual video game play and presence: Influences on aggressive feelings and behavior

Immersive virtual environment technology (IVET) allows developers to create simulated environments that can engage users in context relevant behaviors and that can produce relatively intense user experiences for purposes such as entertainment (e.g., video games), phobia desensitization, and training. We predicted that playing a violent video game using an IVET platform would lead to increased presence and aggressive feelings and behavior compared to playing on a less immersive desktop platform. The results of two experiments supported this hypothesis. The data suggest that presence mediated the relationship between playing platform and aggressive feelings but not the relationship between playing platform and aggressive behavior. Finally, we explored the utility of using cardiovascular measures within this research paradigm.
Nanoparticle PET/CT Imaging of Natriuretic Peptide Clearance Receptor in Prostate Cancer

Atrial natriuretic peptide has been recently discovered to have anticancer effects via interaction with cell surface natriuretic peptide receptor A (NPRA) and natriuretic peptide clearance receptor (NPRC). In a preclinical model, NPRA expression has been identified during tumor angiogenesis and may serve as a potential prognostic marker and target for prostate cancer (PCa) therapy. However, the presence of NPRC receptor in the PCa model has not yet been assessed. Furthermore, there is still no report using nanoparticle for PCa positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Herein, an amphiphilic comb-like nanoparticle was synthesized with controlled properties through modular construction containing C-atrial natriuretic factor (CANF) for NPRC receptor targeting and 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) chelator for high specific activity Cu-64 radiolabeling. The pharmacokinetics of 64Cu-CANF-Comb exhibited tuned biodistribution and optimized in vivo profile in contrast to the nontar...
Annual Cover Crops Do Not Inhibit Early Growth of Perennial Grasses on a Disturbed Restoration Soil in the Northern Great Plains, USA

In agricultural, rangeland, and forest system revegetation projects, cover crops are used for competitive exclusion of weeds and to stabilize soil. Within revegetation projects, annual or short-lived perennial grasses are often sown at the same time as the perennial grasses that are the desired species for long-term landscape rehabilitation. When cover crops are utilized to control weeds, the same principle of competitive exclusion may apply to sown perennial grasses. In this project, we tested if an annual grass cover crop reduces the early stage performance of sown perennial grasses. We conducted four experiments to evaluate the effects of annual cover crops on perennial grasses. The experiments included ex situ growth chamber experiments in two soil types, an agronomic soil, and soil collected from a revegetation project in a trenched water pipeline in western North Dakota. We also performed two in situ experiments where the presence of annuals was manipulated. Annual cover crops only reduced perennial grass biomass ex situ in the agronomic soil. The disturbed pipeline soil was high in sulfur and sodium. Even when this soil was fertilized, annual cover crops did not reduce sown perennial performance. In stressful environments, or when there is natural microenvironmental variability, annual cover crops do not appear to be costly for the early-stage establishment of more long-term, desirable species.
The role of cytotoxic necrotizing factor-1 in colonization and tissue injury in a murine model of urinary tract infection

Cytotoxic necrotizing factor-1 (CNF1) is commonly found in Escherichia coli isolates from patients with urinary tract infection (UTI). To determine whether CNF1 is an important UTI virulence factor we compared the ability of a clinical E. coli UTI isolate and a CNF1-negative mutant of that isolate to colonize and induce histological changes in the urinary tract in a murine model of ascending UTI. We found no evidence that the mutant strain was attenuated.
Local transplantation is an effective method for cell delivery in the osteogenesis imperfecta murine model.

Purpose Osteogenesis imperfecta is a serious genetic disorder that results from improper type I collagen production. We aimed to evaluate whether bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) delivered locally into femurs were able to engraft, differentiate into osteoblasts, and contribute to formation of normal bone matrix in the osteogenesis imperfect murine (oim) model.
Electronics Prognostics Reference Architecture

Electronics prognostics can be defined as the prediction of the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) of electronic components before a failure occurs. This field, while immature, is increasingly important to Raytheonpsilas customers. Raytheon must develop a common and synergistic strategy to address new prognostic requirements. For this reason, Raytheon established a Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) (formerly known as Health Management System) Technology Information Group (TIG) to coordinate these efforts. The PHM TIG identified the need for an Electronics Prognostics Reference Architecture (ePRA) to use in proposals and during the evaluation of new systems with prognostics requirements. With that need in mind the authors of this paper employed the Raytheon Enterprise Architecture Process1 (REAP) to create an ePRA. A list of ldquomust haverdquo requirements for the ePRA were derived that enable its use across many Raytheon projects. Additionally, a list of quality attributes was created for the ePRA. Together these requirements and attributes led to the creation of supporting Department of Defense Architecture Framework2 (DoDAF) views. While there are numerous evolutionary concerns in the area of electronics prognostics, compliance with and the evolution of this ePRA will position Raytheon well to rapidly respond to its customerspsila growing prognostics requirements. The evolution of prognostic systems will fortify Raytheonpsilas customer focus by supplementing highly reliable products with RUL predictions. This will allow for ldquojust in timerdquo replacement of components, improvement within the logistics chain, and a reduction of down-time for the user in an increasingly mobile battlespace. The ePRA developed in this paper will guide the implementation and incorporation of electronics prognostics into Raytheonpsilas products.
Longitudinal Rasch Modeling in the Context of Psychotherapy Outcomes Assessment.

The present study illustrates an extension of Kamata's (2001) restricted form of the hierarchical generalized linear model that provides a multilevel longitudinal Rasch measurement model appropriate for use with polytomous responses. This extension can be used to assess average and interindividual change in the latent trait of interest, concurrently with an assessment of the invariance of item locations over time. Responses of 1,353 college students to three subscales (namely, measures of depression/ anxiety, stress, and well-being) of the Outcome Questionnaire were used for demonstration purposes. Interpretation of the results is provided, and the benefits of using a multilevel item response theory model with longitudinal data are discussed.
Effects of nabam on developing Xenopus laevis embryos: minimum concentration, biological stability, and degradative products.

This study was carried out to determine 1) the minimum concentration at which the fungicide ethylenebisdithiocarbamate disodium salt (nabam) would induce malformations in developingXenopus laevis embryos, 2) whether nabam in solution retained toxicological and teratogenic effects over long periods of time, 3) to compare the toxic and teratogenic effects of nabam's degradative products ethylene thiourea and ethylene diamine, 4) to compare toxic and teratogenic effects of the related substances methyl isothiocyanate and sodium thiocyanate, and 5) to compare the effects of combinations of these substances.Xenopus laevis embryos at “yolk plug” stage (Nieukoop and Faber stages 10–12) were exposed to various concentrations of fresh and one- to seven-week old nabam solutions, ethylene thiourea, ethylene diamine, methyl isothiocyanate, sodium thiocyanate, and combinations of some of these substances. Fresh nabam solutions induced malformations of the notochord in a majority of embryos at concentrations as low as 40 Μg/L. Embryos treated with 40 Μg/L nabam stored 1–7 weeks developed normally. Embryos treated with 100 Μg/L nabam stored 1–7 weeks developed severe malformations of the notochord, delayed pigmentation of the eye, and increased mortality. In addition, embryos exposed to 100 Μg/L nabam stored 4–7 weeks also experienced delayed development of the gut and a general decrease in size. Embryos exposed to fresh 100 Μg/L nabam solutions developed only malformations of the notochord. Concentrations of methyl isothiocyanate of less than 1.0 Μg/L were sublethal. Methyl isothiocyanate (1.0–1,000 Μg/L) was extremely toxic with 100% mortality recorded by day 7 in all groups. Sodium thiocyanate, ethylene thiourea, and ethylene diamine (100–10,000 Μg/L) were neither toxic nor teratogenic. Combinations of ethylene thiourea and methyl isothiocyanate at or beyond 5,000 Μg/L, or 1.0 Μg/L respectively were acutely lethal. At concentrations of 100–1,000 Μ/L ethylene thiourea and 0.01–0.1 Μg/L methyl isothiocyanate, the tadpoles that hatched had swollen and kinked notochords, similar to animals exposed to fresh 40 Μg/L nabam. Thus, the aquatic environment when contaminated with very low levels of the fungicide nabam is hazardous to the development of amphibian embryos.
A simple premixed flame model including an application to H2 + air flames

Abstract This communication proposes a tractable, simple model for the prediction of flame velocities and reaction zone properties. Major chemical aspects of the flame are retained, but the spatial flame structure is approximated as a single, uniform reaction zone whose temperature and composition are calculated. Propagation velocity is determined by competition between reaction and transport. The relation is established by use of a restricted Lewis number approximation applied to the single species, molecular oxygen, and by assuming that diffusion is dominated by the most diffusive species, atomic hydrogen, The resulting algebraic equations are solved for the condition of maximum flame velocity. The model is applied to hydrogen-air flames. Results are compared with experimental measurements and satisfactory agreement is found.
Analysis of trace levels of sulfonamide and tetracycline antimicrobials in groundwater and surface water using solid-phase extraction and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.

A method has been developed for the trace analysis of two classes of antimicrobials consisting of six sulfonamides (SAs) and five tetracyclines (TCs), which commonly are used for veterinary purposes and agricultural feed additives and are suspected to leach into ground and surface water. The method used solid-phase extraction and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) with positive ion electrospray. The unique combination of a metal chelation agent (Na2EDTA) with a macroporous copolymer resulted in quantitative recoveries by solid-phase extraction (mean recovery, 98 ± 12%) at submicrogram-per-liter concentrations. An ammonium formate/formic acid buffer with a methanol/water gradient was used to separate the antimicrobials and to optimize the signal intensity. Mass spectral fragmentation and ionization characteristics were determined for each class of compounds for unequivocal identification. For all SAs, a characteristic m/z 156 ion representing the sulfanilyl fragment was identified. TCs exhibit...
Fabrication of glass sphere laser fusion targets

We have developed processes at LLL for mass producing the high quality glass microspheres required for current laser fusion targets. Here we describe the methods and the materials used in our liquid-droplet and dried-gel systems. Glass microspheres ranging from 70 to 600 microns O.D., with walls from 0.5 to 18 microns thick and which satisfy the exacting surface and symmetry specifications of targets for high density experiments are now produced routinely.
Quantum physics: Shaking photons out of the vacuum

The dynamical Casimir effect — the generation of photons out of the quantum vacuum induced by an accelerated body — has been experimentally demonstrated using a superconducting circuit that simulates a moving mirror. See Letter p.376 Two mirrors held parallel to each other in a vacuum experience an attractive force, known as the Casimir effect, which combines aspects of quantum vacuum behaviour with relativity. The force arises when vacuum fluctuations — virtual particles flitting in and out of existence — reduce the radiation pressure between the plates and generate an inward force. The static effect has been well studied, but theory also predicts a dynamical Casimir effect arising from a mismatch of vacuum modes in time rather than space. This paper presents the first observation of this phenomenon in a superconducting circuit.
Polyomavirus miRNAs: The Beginning

Polyomaviruses are small, double stranded DNA viruses that replicate in the nucleus of the infected cell. Since 2005, clear evidence for miRNAs has been presented for a subset of the members of this viral family, each of which express a single miRNA. All the miRNAs share in common the ability to regulate expression of the major viral regulatory protein, large T antigen. Growing evidence suggests that the major role of the miRNA is to control viral replication. In vitro studies suggesting an immmunomodulatory role for the miRNA have not been supported by in vivo infections. Very little is known about cellular targets of the viral miRNAs, however. Thus, much remains to be learned about these interesting non-coding RNAs.
Xylitol prevents NEFA-induced insulin resistance in rats.

Aims/hypothesis Increased NEFA levels, characteristic of type 2 diabetes mellitus, contribute to skeletal muscle insulin resistance. While NEFA-induced insulin resistance was formerly attributed to decreased glycolysis, it is likely that glucose transport is the rate-limiting defect. Recently, the plant-derived sugar alcohol xylitol has been shown to have favourable metabolic effects in various animal models. Furthermore, its derivative xylulose 5-phosphate may prevent NEFA-induced suppression of glycolysis. We therefore examined whether and how xylitol might prevent NEFA-induced insulin resistance.
Practical Reasoning and Acceptance in a Context

In practical reasoning and action we seek to realize our intentions and satisfy our desires in the light of what we believe. Or so we are taught to say. In this essay I question the last clause and suggest that the cognitive attitudes guiding practical reasoning and action go beyond our beliefs. I begin by locating my problem within the planning conception of practical reasoning I have developed elsewhere (Bratman 1987, 1990).
Nematic Liquid Crystals with Bent-Rod Shapes: Mesomorphic Thiophenes with Lateral Dipole Moments

Liquid crystals based upon bent-rod mesogens are of interest for the design of novel polar and/or biaxial phases. This study reports bent-rod mesogens containing a variable lateral dipole moment and the stability of their phases. X-ray crystallography suggests that the bent-rod and lateral dipoles produce antiparallel correlations of the mesogens.
Managing data caches using selective cache line replacement

As processor performance continues to improve, more demands are being placed on the performance of the memory system. The caches employed in current processor designs are very similar to those described in early cache studies. In this paper, a detailed characterization of data cache behavior for individual load instructions is given. It will be shown that by selectively allocating cache lines according the characteristics of individual load instructions, overall performance can be improved for both the data cache and the memory system. This approach can improve some aspects of memory performance by as much as 60 percent on existing executables.
On the invariant functions of the turbulence bispectrum

Abstract It is established that the invariant functions of the turbulence bispectrum can themselves be represented in terms of basis functions which are independent of time. These basis functions are also scale-independent, and therefore identical for large eddies and small eddies alike. Dynamical implications of this result are discussed.
From ballots to bullets: an empirical assessment of how national elections influence state uses of political repression

Abstract This paper explores the complex relationship between national elections and repression (specifically instances of censorship and political restrictions). I do this while controlling for different contextual effects (various system types), different units of analysis (yearly as well as monthly data), and different types of relationships (lagged as well as immediate). Results indicate that within the yearly aggregated data (N = 1715), elections are only statistically significant in non-democracies, where they effect repressive behavior immediately as well as negatively. Monthly aggregated data (N = 5460), investigating only full democracies, did not reveal any significant relationships between national elections and repression. The degree/level of suffrage restrictions does have an effect however. I conclude with numerous suggestions for future research.
Three efficiency benefits from thin film plasmonic solar cells

In a race to reduce the cost per Watt of solar generated power, there is generally a tradeoff between high efficiency and low cost. By going to thinner devices, less material can be used; however, clever light management designs must be utilized to avoid the loss in current caused by reduced absorption in a thin active layer. Here we discuss such design schemes incorporating either dielectric or metallic structures to approach the bulk absorption limit in optically thin layers. As a specific example, a plasmonic back grating can result in absorption of 80% of the incident above bandgap light in a GaAs layer of only 200 nm. If the reduction in current upon thinning of the cell is limited, an improvement in the open circuit voltage can be obtained through a reduction of the bulk recombination current. Under the condition that the open circuit voltage increases more rapidly than the short circuit current decreases, thinner layers will produce more efficient cells. Finally, the incorporation of metallic scatterers can potentially improve the fill factor by reducing the sheet resistance of a top surface-passivating layer. We show experiments that suggest that the sheet resistance decreases for a metal particle decorated GaAs structure, which can be modeled using a simple circuit diagram. By combining all three effects, we consider the possibility of high efficiency solar cells that are an order of magnitude thinner than their bulk counterparts and consider their role for future photovoltaic device architectures.
The Influence of Supporting Rings on the Healing of the Ringed Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Vascular Graft

The influence of supporting rings on the healing of the ringed expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) vascular graft (ringed graft) was studied. In 12 dogs (32-42 kgm), a 4cm segment of each common iliac artery was excised and replaced with an equal length of 6mm ePTFE vascular graft. Ringed graft was used on one side and plain on the other. Dogs were sacrificed at intervals of 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks.All grafts remained patent. The degree of pannus extension and pannus thickness showed no differences between both grafts at each interval. It was covered by a monolayer of endothelial-like cells as seen by scanning electron microscopy. The growth rates of endothelialization measured from the proximal anastomosis were 1.3 and 1.4 mm/week in the plain and ringed grafts, respec tively. Anastomotic intimal hyperplasia (> 50 microns) was noted in 25% and 33% at the proximal and distal anastomoses, respectively, in both grafts. The outer surface was covered by adherent connective tissue particularly encapsu ...
Neurotrophin effects on intracellular Ca2+ and force in airway smooth muscle

Neurotrophins [e.g., brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin 4 (NT4)], known to affect neuronal structure and function, are expressed in nonneuronal tissues including the airway. How...
Depth Distribution of Thalassia testudinum in two Meadows on the West Coast of Florida; a Difference in Effect of Light Availability

. Shoot density was lower, while leaf area index and above- to below-ground biomass ratios were higher for Thalassia testudinum collected from the deep edge when compared to the shallow edge of a meadow off Anclotc Key, Florida. These three characters followed patterns predicted from previous studies. The characters were reversed in order for plants from shallow and deep edges of a meadow off Egmont Key, about 50 km south of Anclote Key. Causes other than light were not evident to explain this reversal in the Egmont Key meadow. This study suggests that although light limitation may be the usual limiting factor for depth distribution in seagrass meadows, other factors cannot be ignored in many meadows along the west coast of Florida.
Knowledge and the measurement process

This work is a beginning attempt to determine how the properties of the process of measurement limit the maximum attainable knowledge of the value of a measured quantity. The problem considered here is whetherboth the scale pointer reading errors must approach zeroand the number of observations approach infinity in order to know the exact value of a measured quantity or whether just the number of observations must approach infinity. After a preliminary discussion of the methods of treating experimental data and their relation to reading errors, the measurement of the width of a slit is discussed in some detail. A single measurement consists in placing an opaque sheet containing the slit on an array of detectors, illuminating the system with a strong source of light and counting the number of altered detectors. It is found that, at best, the uncertainty in the measured width of the slit is an. interval equal to the width of the smallest detector used. Consequently in order to determine exactly a slit width at least the detector width roust approach zero. It also turns out that under conditions often used for such measurements the number of observations must approach infinity.
Do tachyons travel more slowly than light

The propagation of solutions of the Klein-Gordon equation with an arbitrary complex mass is investigated. Owing to the strict hyperbolicity of the Klein-Gordon operator, the global Cauchy problem with initial data on a spacelike hyperplane is well posed. In the process of constructing the solution of this Cauchy problem, a Lorentz-invariant retarded Green's function is calculated. Thus the Klein-Gordon causal order relation between pairs of events is invariant under any orthochronous Lorentz transformation and the field propagates no faster than light. In particular, this limitation on the propagation speed is valid for the imaginary-mass Klein-Gordon field. The relation between the causal order and Green's functions is examined. It is shown that only those Green's functions associated with the global Cauchy problem are relevant to the causal order. Finally, it is shown that the group velocity is not physically significant when the dispersion is anomalous.
Failures in thin metal film resistors—A case history

This paper presents a case study that was initaated by excessive monitor failures occurring during a simulated early-life test. Statistical analysis of the failure data suggested that there should be no longterm resistor failure problem. Large increases in resistance of some metal film resistors led to many of the monitor failures. Corrosion of the resistive film by residual chlorine for a particular resistor vendor's cleaning process was responsible. The results led to process changes to reduce the contamination and the reliability testing of the ‘new’ product revealed that the process changes were successful. A statistical designed experiment indicated that the ‘old’ resistors were not all degraded in the same manner. As a result of this experiment, the failures were attributed to poor process controls.
Organizational Principles of the Connexin-Related Brain Transcriptome

We have found that deletion of genes encoding the gap junction proteins Cx43, Cx32 and Cx36 alter the expression levels of large numbers of genes in mouse brain located on all chromosomes and encoding proteins from all major functional categories. Gene regulation in Cx32 and Cx43 null brains was more similar than that in the Cx36 null brain, suggesting the possibility of transcriptomic controls exerted by both genes on both astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. In order to explore the nature of expression linkage among the genes, we examined coordinated expression patterns in wild-type and connexin null brains. Coordination with Cx43 in wild-type brain predicted regulation in Cx43 nulls with considerable accuracy. Moreover, interlinkage within gene networks was greatly perturbed in the Cx43 null brain. These findings suggest several principles regarding regulatory transcriptomic networks involving gap junction genes and raise the issue of the underlying cause of connexin null phenotypes as well as mechanisms of regulation.
The Parasocial Contact Hypothesis

We propose a communication analogue to Allport's (1954) Contact Hypothesis called the Parasocial Contact Hypothesis (PCH). If people process mass-mediated parasocial interaction in a manner similar to interpersonal interaction, then the socially beneficial functions of intergroup contact may result from parasocial contact. We describe and test the PCH with respect to majority group members' level of prejudice in three studies, two involving parasocial contact with gay men (Six Feet Under and Queer Eye for the Straight Guy) and one involving parasocial contact with comedian and male transvestite Eddie Izzard. In all three studies, parasocial contact was associated with lower levels of prejudice. Moreover, tests of the underlying mechanisms of PCH were generally supported, suggesting that parasocial contact facilitates positive parasocial responses and changes in beliefs about the attributes of minority group categories.
FOXP3 expression in peripheral blood and synovial cells of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: relationship with IL-17 at cytokine and molecular level

Materials and methods We have enrolled 58 JIA patients (polyarticular and oligoarticular disease) and 69 healthy controls. We examined CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ percentage (flow cytometry), FOXP3 and RORγt mRNA (RT-PCR) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and in synovial fluid mononuclear cells (SFMCs). FOXP3 median fluorescence intensity (MFI) of CD4+ T cells was also determined. Interleukin-17 levels were measured (ELISA) in stimulated PBMCs supernatants in 22 patients.
Bedside emergency department ultrasonography plus radiography of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder vs intravenous pyelography in the evaluation of suspected ureteral colic.

OBJECTIVE To determine the role of bedside renal ultrasonography (US) and plain radiography of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder (KUB) as the initial investigative modality for those patients presenting to the ED with unilateral flank pain and hematuria. The hypothesis was that the renal US + KUB may obviate the need for emergent i.v. pyelography (i.v.P) in a majority of patients. METHODS Prospective study over an 8-month period of all consecutive adult patients between the ages of 18 and 65 years presenting with unilateral flank pain and hematuria to the ED at LAC + USC Medical Center. Patients received KUB followed by a 500-mL bolus of normal saline. Bedside US was then performed by emergency physicians (EPs). Hydronephrosis of the kidney was graded as mild, moderate, or severe. All patients then underwent i.v.P. The results of the bedside US + KUB were then compared with those of i.v.P (the criterion standard). RESULTS Of a total of 139 eligible patients, 108 were enrolled. The combination of US and KUB correctly identified pathology consistent with nephroureterolithiasis with a sensitivity of 97.1% (95% CI = 93.1-100%) when compared with i.v.P. The KUB + US results were falsely positive in 16 patients, resulting in a specificity of 58.9% (95% CI = 43.5-74.3%). The positive predictive value of the combined modality was 80.7%, the negative predictive value was 92.0%, and the overall accuracy was 83.3%. CONCLUSION The bedside US + KUB has a high sensitivity and can be performed rapidly at the bedside by the EP when compared with i.v.P. This combined modality is an effective screening tool in the initial evaluation of ureteral colic.
The effects of osmotic pressure and calcium deficiency on the response of tissue-cultured melanophores to melanocyte-stimulating hormone.

Abstract Tissue-cultured embryonic salamander melanophores were treated with various experimental solutions in perfusion chambers and their responses recorded photographically. In some cases, measurements were made of cellular perimeter and area from the photographic records. Hypotonic media produce cellular expansion and melanin dispersion, accompanied by an increase in perimeter and area. Since the effect of MSH is very similar to this, these results provide further evidence that the action of MSH on the melanophore involves cellular uptake of water. Hypertonic media produce cellular contraction and melanin aggregation, accompanied by decreases in perimeter and area. The finding that MSH action is reversibly inhibited in hypertonic media also supports the view that water uptake is involved in MSH action. In calcium-free medium there is a contraction of the cells. MSH action is also reversibly inhibited in the calcium-free medium, making it likely that there is a calcium requirement for MSH action at the cellular level.
“Thanks for Fighting the Good Fight”: Cultivating Dissent on Blogmaverick.com

This research explored National Basketball Association (NBA) franchise owner Mark Cuban's dissent expressions posted on his blog. Using grounded theory and constant comparative methodology (Glaser & Strauss, 1967) of 30 blog entries posted on Cuban's site from March 16, 2004, through July 20, 2007, was conducted. Analysis revealed that Cuban's blog functioned to promote change within the NBA and that his dissent expressions were overwhelmingly confirmed by blog readers. The findings of the study suggest that blogs provide a rich medium wherein dissent can be cultivated, particularly when the dissent originates from a recognizable person. The blog then emerges as a site where dissent is a collective identity that strengthens efforts to improve the organization.
Determination of lamivudine/stavudine/efavirenz in human serum using liquid chromatography/electrospray tandem mass spectrometry with ionization polarity switch

A high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) method with ionization polarity switch was developed and validated in human serum for the determination of a lamivudine (3TC)/stavudine (d4T)/efavirenz combination HIV therapy. Solid phase extraction (SPE) was used to extract these anti-HIV drugs and internal standard aprobarbital. A gradient mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and 20 mM ammonium acetate buffer with pH adjusted to 4.5 using glacial acetic acid was utilized to separate these drugs on a hexylsilane column (150 x 2.0 mm i.d.). The total run time between injections was 18 min. The precursor and major product ions of these drugs were monitored on a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer in the multiple reactions monitoring (MRM) mode. Ionization polarity was switched in the middle of the LC run allowing these anti-HIV drugs with different physicochemical properties to be detected simultaneously. The effect of ion suppression from human serum was studied and no interference with the analysis was noted. The method was validated over the range of 1.1-540 ng/mL for 3TC, 12.5-6228 ng/mL for d4T and 1.0-519 ng/mL for efavirenz. The method was shown to be accurate, with intra-day and inter-day accuracy less than 14.0% and precise, with intra-day and inter-day precision less than 13.1%. The extraction recoveries of all analytes were higher than 90%.
A Center’s Experience: Pulmonary Function in Spinal Cord Injury

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with significant psychological and physical challenges. A multidisciplinary approach to management is essential to ensure recovery during the acute phase, and comprehensive rehabilitative strategies are necessary to foster independence and quality of life throughout the chronic phase of injury. Complications that beset these individuals are often a unique consequence of SCI, and knowledge of the effects of SCI upon organ systems is essential for appropriate management. According to the National SCI Statistical Center (NSCISC), as of 2010 there were an estimated 265,000 persons living with SCI in the United States, with approximately 12,000 incidence cases annually. Although life expectancy for newly injured individuals with SCI is markedly reduced, persons with chronic SCI are expected to live about as long as individuals without SCI; however, longevity varies inversely with level of injury. Since 2005, 56 % of persons with SCI are tetraplegic, and due to paralysis of respiratory muscles, these individuals may be especially prone to pulmonary complications, which remain a major cause of mortality among persons with chronic SCI. We at the VA Rehabilitation Research and Development Center of Excellence for the Medical Consequences of SCI at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center have devoted more than 25 years to the study of secondary medical conditions that complicate SCI. Herein, we review pulmonary research at the Center, both our past and future endeavors, which form an integral part of our multidisciplinary approach toward achieving a greater understanding of and improving care for veterans with SCI.
Curriculum-Based Assessment Testing What Is Taught and Teaching What Is Tested

Over the last 15 years empirical studies have documented positive effects resulting from the use of curriculum-based assessment (CBA) procedures on the achievement of students with special educatio...
Redefining the serotonergic system by genetic lineage

Central serotonin-producing neurons are heterogeneous-differing in location, morphology, neurotoxin sensitivity and associated clinical disorders-but the underpinnings of this heterogeneity are largely unknown, as are the markers that distinguish physiological subtypes of serotonergic neurons. Here we redefined serotonergic subtypes on the basis of genetic programs that are differentially enacted in progenitor cells. We uncovered a molecular framework for the serotonergic system that, having genetic lineages as its basis, is likely to have physiological relevance and will permit access to genetically defined subtypes for manipulation.
Neo Personality Inventory Profiles of Assertive and Nonassertive Persons

The hypothesis that assertive and nonassertive persons have different personality profiles was tested by giving the College Self-expression Scale and the NEO Personality Inventory to 120 male and 139 female undergraduates. Results strongly supported the hypothesis.
Seeking excellence for the land of paradise: Integrating cultural information into an environmental education program in a rural Hawai’ian community

Abstract The purpose of this case study was to: (1) assess whether a group of 12 students from a rural Hawai’ian community acquired local environmental knowledge through a place-based environmental education program, and (2) determine how integration of cultural information into this program affected participants’ views about their natural world. A tertiary objective was to develop and test a methodological approach for evaluating youth environmental education programs. Findings revealed a tripartite foundation of novel experiences, mentorship through social connections and learning about nature through a cultural lens facilitated a deeper understanding of nature and culture. Additionally, the mix of qualitative techniques effectively facilitated an in-depth understanding of program impacts on participants’ views toward the local environment.
A novel murine model for the study of human renal cryoablation.

OBJECTIVE To develop a reproducible, non-debilitating in vivo murine model of human renal cryoablation using a standard closed argon-delivery system. MATERIALS AND METHODS Custom engineered 2-mm conical tip cryoprobes for use on the standard argon-based cryoablation unit (Endocare, Inc. Irvine, CA, USA) were used to create small controllable iceballs (−160 °C) in the mouse kidney. The time to create a 4-mm cryolesion was compared using a contact vs puncture technique in 10 mice. To show consistency of the induced-freeze injury, a 4-mm iceball was created in 20 murine renal units and the time to creation and the size of the resultant cryolesion measured. To investigate lesion regression and histological changes, we created a 4-mm renal cryolesion in 28 mice and killed four each at 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days. The measured coronal cross-sectional area of the cryoablation site at necroscopy was compared to the initial calculated area as a percentage. To assess renal preservation, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels at 1 week after cryoablation or sham ablation was compared (10 mononephric mice in each group). RESULTS The time to create the desired iceball was 1.9 times quicker using the puncture vs the contact technique. The mean (sd) time to forming a 4-mm iceball was 35.3 (4.8) s with a mean maximum length of the resultant post-thaw injury of 5.7 (0.5) mm and a 9% coefficient of variance. Regression analysis of the two-dimensional cross-sectional coronal area of the cryolesion showed a statistically significant linear pattern of regression over time (P = 0.037) and classic histological findings. There was no significant difference in the BUN or creatinine levels in mononephric mice 1 week after cryotherapy compared with the sham-ablated controls. CONCLUSIONS We describe a reproducible, non-debilitating, easily manipulated murine model for the study of human renal cryoablation.
Financial openness, nontradable inflation and optimal monetary policy

Abstract This paper examines capital inflow dynamics for varying degrees of financial openness under a Taylor-type rule. The findings show that higher openness generates a more sensitive response in nontradable inflation, and that optimal monetary policy varies with the degree of openness.
Effect of departmental policies on cesarean delivery rates: a community hospital experience.

Abstract Objective: During 1994, our department adopted several strategies in an attempt to decrease our cesarean delivery rates. This study evaluates the effect of these changes on our cesarean delivery rates. Methods: We studied data of women who delivered at our community hospital obstetric unit over a period of 6 years, from January 1, 1991, to December 31, 1996. During 1994, our department adopted labor management and cesarean delivery guidelines, with review of every cesarean delivery that did not meet guidelines and confidential individual feedback; established 24-hour in-house coverage; and attempted to achieve the goal of an annual cesarean delivery rate of less than 15%. These data were evaluated by χ2 analysis. Women who delivered in the first 3 years (group A) were compared with those who delivered in the second 3 years (group B) (ie, when the changes occurred). P Results: Groups A and B shared similar demographic characteristics. The total cesarean delivery rate decreased from 22.5% (group A) to 18.6% (group B) (P = .001), whereas the primary cesarean delivery rate decreased from 13.5% to 10.6% (P = .001) and the repeat cesarean delivery rate decreased from 9.0% to 7.9% (P = .03). The proportion of women who received oxytocin and regional anesthesia and underwent vacuum-assisted deliveries increased (P Conclusion: The cesarean delivery rate safely decreased. These data suggest the importance of the commitment of attending physicians to a lower cesarean delivery rate, of service improvements, and of detailed feedback.