cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Which clinical conditions are responsible for impaired alertness

Abstract The complaint of excessive daytime sleepiness, commonly encountered in clinical practice, may arise from many medical and psychiatric disorders and behavioural lifestyle changes. The list of possibilities spans virtually every major area of medicine, neurology and psychiatry. Assessment of impaired alertness is largely based on clinical interview and direct observation, but it may also include subjective self-report, objective physiological and behavioural measures, and performance tests. In the primary care setting, a clear and detailed history is invaluable in negotiating these numerous diagnostic considerations. Primary care physicians need to be aware that the patient's complaint may be expressed in terms of ‘tiredness’ or ‘fatigue’ rather than a direct reference to impaired alertness or performance. Accurate diagnosis is important, not only because of the negative impact of impaired alertness and its possible underlying causes on health and the quality of the patient's professional and social life, but also because impaired alertness due to poor sleep quality can be remedied with appropriate treatment. Increased understanding of the neurological basis of alertness and sleepiness will undoubtedly lead to improved treatments. To facilitate improved understanding of the symptoms, aetiology, pathophysiology and treatment of impaired alertness, classification of the sleep disorders is necessary to discriminate between disorders. Based on recent advances in knowledge about sleep disorders, the recently published second version of the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD) has been expanded to include 85 sleep disorders under eight major categories: (1) insomnias, (2) sleep-related breathing disorders, (3) hypersomnias not due to a breathing disorder, (4) circadian rhythm sleep disorders, (5) parasomnias, (6) sleep-related movement disorders, (7) other sleep disorders, and (8) isolated symptoms, apparently due to adverse effect of drugs, medications and biological substances. The ICSD provides relevant information on the diagnostic features and epidemiology to differentiate between sleep disorders, and it will no doubt serve as a core resource in the development of recommendations for primary care physicians to guide the diagnosis and treatment of patients with impaired alertness.
A new pulse modulation adaptive controller (PMAC) applied to HVAC systems

Abstract The paper proposes a new switching control law (pulse modulation adaptive controller, PMAC) that implements pulse-width–pulse-frequency modulation. Pulse durations are determined to maintain the amplitude of variation in the controlled variable at or below a user-defined level. In addition to providing quantifiable control performance, PMAC can reduce component wear by issuing fewer switches than conventional control schemes. The control law is developed around a first-order system characterization but incorporates an adaptive loop, which allows application to a wide range of non-first-order and also time-variant systems. Test results are presented from applying PMAC to both simulated and real HVAC systems.
Extracorporeal versus intracorporeal ileocolic anastomosis

This nonsystematic review was performed to evaluate the literature that pertains to laparoscopic right colectomy, focusing on extracorporeal versus intracorporeal ileocolic anastomosis. The literature search was performed using PubMed to investigate the current status of research on 3 topics: (1) laparoscopic right colectomy with extracorporeal anastomosis, (2) laparoscopic right colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis, and (3) comparisons of the 2 techniques. Each topic was reviewed, and the most relevant articles were selected for each subheading. Current literature is bringing to the forefront new evidence that laparoscopic right colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis can be performed within a comparable time frame as extracorporeal anastomosis and with similar complication rates. Recent reports have presented evidence in which the entire operation is performed intracorporeally by a medial-to-lateral approach with comparable results to those observed in the surgery performed with extracorporeal anastomosis. The advantages of intracorporeal anastomosis are that mobilization of the transverse colon is not necessary, the anastomosis is performed away from the abdominal wall, and there is decreased potential for adhesion formation and a smaller extraction site. Potential disadvantages include intra-abdominal colotomy, requirement of laparoscopic suturing skills, and longer operative time.
The Community Devleopment Project

Book reviewed in this article: Coventry Community Development Project 1975: Final report: prosperity and the persistence of inequality. National Community Development Project 1977: The costs of industrial change. National Community Development Project 1977: Gilding the ghetto. The state and the poverty experiments.
Numerical solutions for high Reynolds number separated flow past a semi-infinite compression corner

Abstract The present paper addresses the high Reynolds number, two-dimensional, steady laminar flow separation phenomenon near an interior (concave) corner. A very fast Alternating Direction Implicit finite difference approach is used to solve the Interacting Boundary Layer approximation to the Navier Stokes equations in a conformal plane. Solutions are presented for corner angles up to 18° for Reynolds numbers (based on forebody length) up to 10 8 . Convergence properties and accuracy levels are identified in order to provide reliability estimates of the results. Limitations to the numerical algorithm for large separation regions at high Reynolds numbers are identified.
PROCEDURE FOR DETERMINATION OF CONTEXTUAL LINKS WITHIN MODELS

In the sense that living organisms respond by adaptive changes to changes in the environment, biological systems may be viewed as modeling systems. The appreciation of context by Siological modeling systems was recently emphasized by Hermann and Kotelly ( I967 ) . Waxman ( 1968) has proposed a mechanism whereby stimuli might be categorized by the brain on the basis of the context in which they occur. To say that two events are related, i.e., relevant or contextually linked, is ro say that they satisfy some criterion. In general, this criterion will be determined by the observer, or, in the terminology of Hermann and Kotelly, the modeling system. Thus, consider the model Mod (B, X, h) or "B models X relative to h," in which X represents the set being modelled, B represents che modeling set, and h represents the map h:X - B. For two elements xl and x? of X,
Semi-automatic neuron segmentation in electron microscopy images via sparse labeling

We introduce a novel method for utilizing user input to sparsely label membranes in electron microscopy images. Using gridlines as guides, the user marks where the guides cross the membrane to generate a sparsely labeled image. We use a best path algorithm to connect each of the sparse membrane labels. The resulting segmentation has a significantly better Rand error than automatic methods while requiring as little as 2% of the image to be labeled.
Layers of Silence, Arenas of Voice: The Ecology ofVisible and Invisible Work

No work is inherently either visible or invisible. We always ’’see‘‘ work through a selection of indicators: straining muscles, finished artifacts, a changed state of affairs. The indicators change with context, and that context becomes a negotiation about the relationship between visible and invisible work. With shifts in industrial practice these negotiations require longer chains of inference and representation, and may become solely abstract. This article provides a framework for analyzing invisible work in CSCW systems. We sample across a variety of kinds of work to enrich the understanding of how invisibility and visibility operate. Processes examined include creating a ’’non-person‘‘ in domestic work; disembedding background work; and going backstage. Understanding these processes may inform the design of CSCW systems and the development of related social theory.
Vascular Factors and Risk for Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer's Disease: The Cache County Study

Objective—To examine, in an exploratory analysis, the association between vascular conditions and the occurrence of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in a population-based sample of incident Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods—The sample consisted of 254 participants, identified through two waves of assessment. NPS were assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. Prior to the onset of AD, data regarding a history of stroke, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, heart attack or CABG, and diabetes were recorded. Logistic regression procedures were used to examine the relationship of each vascular condition to individual neuropsychiatric symptoms. Covariates considered were age, gender, education, APOE genotype, dementia severity, and overall health status. Results—One or more NPS were observed in 51.0% of participants. Depression was most common (25.8%), followed by apathy (18.6%), and irritability (17.7%). Least common were elation (0.8%), hallucinations (5.6%), and disinhibition (6.0%). Stroke prior to the onset of AD was associated with increased risk of delusions (OR=4.76, p=0.02), depression (OR=3.87, p=0.03), and apathy (OR=4.48, p=0.02). Hypertension was associated with increased risk of delusions (OR=2.34, p=0.02), anxiety (OR=4.10, p=0.002), and agitation/aggression (OR=2.82, p=0.01). No associations were observed between NPS and diabetes, hyperlipidemia, heart attack or CABG, or overall health. Conclusions—Results suggest that a history of stroke and hypertension increase the risk of specific NPS in patients with AD. These conditions may disrupt neural circuitry in brain areas involved in
The Potential Influence of Climate Change on Offshore Primary Production in Lake Michigan

This paper examines the potential influence of climate change on the primary productivity of Lake Michigan. Two general circulation models (GCMs) provided physical information on projected regional climate for the years 2030, 2050, and 2090. A 30-year record of meteorological data and limnological observations, from 1961 to through1990, was used to define present, baseline conditions for the lake. GCM output was used to develop scenarios of future thermal characteristics, mixing patterns, and surface irradiance, which were then used to drive primary production calculations. Mean annual primary production for the base period was 116 g C/m2. Under base conditions thermal stratification of the lake occurred on 13 June and extended 135 days until 26 October. Conditions projected for 2090 showed the mean date of stratification beginning as early as 5 April and remaining for 225 days until 20 November. Estimated mean annual primary production under these conditions totaled 113 g C/m2, a decrease of 3% from the mean base value. Under the most extreme conditions of maximum projected cloud cover for 2090, primary production in that year could fall to 101 g C/m2, a decrease of 13% from the base mean, or down 22% from maximum base production calculated under minimum base cloud cover conditions. The projected decrease may be attributed to physical/chemical constraints imposed on spring primary production by altered climate conditions. Early stratification would shorten the period of winter-spring mixing, during which time nutrients from the sediment are transported to the productive euphotic zone. The spring bloom was projected to diminish if early stratification capped the nutrient supply, and increased cloud cover reduced light input for photosynthesis. To a lesser extent fall production could also be reduced by the extension of the stratified period. Altered physical/chemical conditions influenced by a changing climate will be an important factor to consider in assessing future water quality conditions, primary production and the food web dynamics of the Great Lakes.
Relationships between physiological stress and trace toxic substances in the bay mussel, Mytilus edulis, from San Francisco bay, California

Resident populations of Mytilus edulis from Tomales and San Francisco Bay, California, were measured for scope of growth, a physiological integration of the energy consumed by individual animals (feeding rate and assimilation efficiency) less the energy lost in metabolic processes (oxygen consumption and ammonia excretion). Scope for growth of mussels was significantly correlated (p≤ 0·05) with feeding rates. There was a significant decline in the scope for growth between the Golden Gate, at the bay's entrance and RedwoodCity in south San Francisco Bay. The scope for growth in resident M. edulis was significantly negatively correlated (p≤ 0·05) with increased environmental concentrations (from transplanted M. californianus body burden data) of the following trace elements and higher molecular weight chlorinated organic compounds: Cr, Cu, Hg (p ≤ 0·01) and Ag, Al, Zn, total chlordanes, and dieldrin. Scope for growth was significantly correlated (p ≤0·05) with body condition index (dry body weight1shell length).
Probabilistic analysis of nonlinear response to sustained load processes

Abstract Reliability study of structural members subjected to a stochastic load process has been extended to include material nonlinearity. Tractable expressions for the first moment statistics of the number of load exceedances and damage duration were derived previously, primarily for a Poisson square wave process and for material with a bilinear force-deformation relationship. A probability distribution for the number of load exceedances is derived herein. It is found that the derived distribution, when approximated by a Taylor series, is in good agreement with that obtained from the simulated sustained load processes if the coefficient of variation of load exceedances is under 50%. In addition, the relationship between linear load effect and non-linear structural response is examined for different elastic limits both in load exceedances and in damage duration. It appears that for high threshold levels, nonlinear response may not be as critical as linear response.
Association of SNPs in the UGT1A gene cluster with total bilirubin and mortality in the Diabetes Heart Study

Objective A negative relationship between total bilirubin concentration (TBili) and CVD risk has been documented in a series of epidemiological studies. In addition, TBili is thought to be under strong genetic regulation via the UGT1A gene family, suggesting it may be a heritable CVD risk factor. However, few studies directly relate TBili-associated UGT1A variants to CVD severity or outcome. This study replicated the genetic association for TBili in the Diabetes Heart Study (DHS), and examined the relationships of TBili-associated SNPs with measures of subclinical CVD and mortality.
Real-Time Battery Model Identification Using a Two Time-Scaled Approach

Battery state estimation (BSE) is one of the most important design aspects of an electrified propulsion system. It includes important functions such as state-of-charge estimation which is essentially for the energy management system. A successful and practical approach to battery state estimation is via real time battery model parameter identification. In this approach, a low-order control-oriented model is used to approximate the battery dynamics. Then a recursive least squares is used to identify the model parameters in real time. Despite its good properties, this approach can fail to identify the optimal model parameters if the underlying system contains time constants that are very far apart in terms of time-scale. Unfortunately this is the case for typical lithium-ion batteries especially at lower temperatures. In this paper, a modified battery model parameter identification method is proposed where the slower and faster battery dynamics are identified separately. The battery impedance information is used to guide how to separate the slower and faster dynamics, though not used specifically in the identification algorithm. This modified algorithm is still based on least squares and can be implemented in real time using recursive least squares. Laboratory data is used to demonstrate the validity of this method.Copyright © 2013 by General Motors
Structure arguments for collaborative negotiation of group decisions in manufacturing systems integration

To support the collaboration negotiation of group decision-making activities in manufacturing systems integration, the authors have developed an approach to structure the negotiation argument with identified and organised objectives and preferences. This paper reviews relevant research work and presents the framework and methods of this approach. To overcome the limitations of these works in structuring argument for effective collaborative negotiation, our approach synthesises a value-focused objective hierarchy with the generic argument structure to specify how the arguments can be generated based on stakeholders' proposals, objectives, criteria and preferences, and then exchanged amongst multiple stakeholders. This synthesis framework also helps us suggest operational methods to evaluate the arguments based on the level of the objectives achievement. In addition, this paper describes a prototype system which implements our approach using the advanced web-based software technologies with the goal of demonstrating how to systematically carry out effective collaborative negotiation of group decisions in manufacturing systems integration.
Marriage and Family Therapy Trainees' Reports of Explicit Weight Bias

Discrimination based on an individual's weight has been observed in health care, education, retail, and other public sectors (Puhl & Huer, Obesity, 17, 941, 2007). Such inequity, known as "weight bias," generates negative short-term and long-term consequences for the individuals that experience it (Puhl & Brownell, Weight bias in health care settings, 2007). Past research has shown that healthcare trainees exhibit weight bias (Phelan et al., Obesity, 22, 1201, 2014; Wigton & McGaghie, Journal of General Internal Medicine, 16, 262, 2001), yet little focus is given to weight bias in marriage and family therapy (MFT) education. The purpose of this study was to survey MFT students (N = 162) to explore weight bias and how contextual factors associate with weight bias. Participants in MFT programs reported explicit weight bias, with specific contextual factors associating with more bias. Female participants reported more fear of gaining weight, and individuals who identified as overweight had higher rates of explicit weight bias. Contextual differences and implications for training programs are discussed.
Particle mixing in free shear flows

Abstract The mixing of particles or droplets in free shear layers is encountered in a variety of combustion systems and industrial applications. Free shear layers are characterized by large scale vortical structures which evolve and interact with time. These vortex structures can play a major role in particle or droplet dispersion. It has recently been postulated that the organized rotating motion of the large-scale structures can enhance the dispersion of intermediate size particles. This paper first reviews the currently-accepted mechanisms and models for particle dispersion in homogenoue, isotropic turbulence and addresses the difference between such flows and free shear layers. The essential features of free shear flows are then described and experiments on particle dispersion in free jets and mixing layers are reviewed. Numerical models which have been developed for particle dispersion in free shear layers, such as plane mixing layers, jets and wakes, are outlined and the results are interpreted in light of the postulated physical model. Both experimental results and numerical simulations strongly imply that particle dispersion in free shear layers is controlled by the motion of large scale vortex structures.
Chain lengths in the dominance lattice

Abstract We construct the largest union of two or three chains in the lattice of partitions of n under the dominance order. This construction provides a framework for finding the largest union of four or more chains. We also see how these chain lengths relate to a theorem of Gansner and Saks and the problem of finding the largest antichain.
A novel optimal channel partitioning algorithm for integrated wireless and mobile networks

How to efficiently support multi-class services is a very important issue in integrated wireless and mobile networks because each type of services has distinct characteristics and quality of service (QoS) requirements. This paper presents an efficient algorithm for near optimal channel allocation when different types of services are to be provided in the next generation integrated wireless and mobile networks. We specifically propose a preemptive priority scheme for an integrated wireless and mobile network by first dividing channels into three independent groups and classifying traffic into four different types. The proposed system is modeled by a multi-dimension Markov chain model. Then such a model is used to obtain a set of relations that correlate performances with various system parameters. A novel recursive algorithm is developed to determine the minimal number of channels in each channel group that would be necessary to satisfy the QoS requirements. We also investigate the impact of load ratio for different types of traffic on channel assignment. Finally, we discuss some limitations of our approach and indicate possible future work. We believe that the partitioning scheme proposed in this paper can become a starting point for analysis of future integrated wireless and mobile networks.
The effects of diffuseness and deep perforating artery supply on outcomes after microsurgical resection of brain arteriovenous malformations.

OBJECTIVE: Diffuse arteriovenous malformations (AVM) have non-compact niduses, irregular margins, and intervening brain parenchyma. Deep perforating arteries often contribute to the ragged border of these diffuse AVMs. We hypothesized that diffuseness and deep perforator supply increase the difficulties and risks associated with microsurgical AVM resection. METHODS: Diffuseness was quantified using computer-generated outlines of AVMs on angiograms, contour plots with varying image intensities, and calculations of nidus area-intensity profiles. Diffuse AVMs had nonlinear area-intensity profiles with high transition intensities ([I*] greater than 0.5). A consecutive series of 304 patients who were treated with microsurgical AVM resection over a period of 7.8 years was analyzed, along with quantification of diffuseness in a subset of 103 consecutive patients. Neurological outcomes were assessed by using the Modified Rankin Scale, and logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of deterioration and poor outcome at late follow-up evaluation. RESULTS: Diffuse niduses were observed in 25% of patients, and 18% of patients had deep perforating artery supply. Patients with compact AVMs were more likely to have good outcomes or overall improvement (88 and 87%, respectively) than patients with diffuse AVMs (65 and 54%, respectively) (P = 0.008 and P< 0.001 / respectively), Similarly, absence of deep perforator supply was associated with good outcomes or improvement in 85 and 78% of patients, respectively, compared with 63 and 64% of patients, respectively; in patients with deep perforator supply (P< 0.001 and P= 0.028, respectively). By logistic regression analysis, diffuseness and deep perforator supply were both associated with significant increases in surgical risk. CONCLUSION: Diffuseness and deep perforating artery supply are subtle features of an AVM that predict worse outcomes after microsurgical resection. Diffuseness makes surgical planes more difficult to determine and follow, whereas deep perforators are friable, poorly visualized, and located in eloquent white matter tracts. The Spetzler-Martin grading scale does not directly account for these two features; however, they should be considered carefully when making treatment recommendations to patients with AVMs.
Perceived quality, emotions, and behavioral intentions: Application of an extended Mehrabian–Russell model to restaurants

Abstract In order to address a lack of comprehensive evaluation of restaurant quality, this study extends Mehrabian and Russell's stimulus–organism–response framework by incorporating restaurant-specific stimuli and including restaurant-specific measures of emotion. Using structural equation modeling, this study shows that atmospherics and service function as stimuli that enhance positive emotions while product attributes, such as food quality, act to relieve negative emotional responses. Results also suggest that positive emotions mediate the relationship between atmospherics/services and future behavioral outcomes. The results are theoretically and practically meaningful because they address the relationships among three types of perceived quality (product, atmospherics, and service), customer emotions (positive/negative), and behavioral intentions in the restaurant consumption experience. Managerial implications, limitations, and future research directions are also suggested.
Resonances and excitation pathways in four-level N -scheme atomic systems

In this work, we theoretically study the absorption and dispersion coefficients of a probe field in four-level N-scheme atomic systems driven by two additional fields. We separate the steady-state solution of the appropriate density matrix element into the sum of three resonances. The effect of each resonance on the overall absorption and dispersion experienced by the probe is studied as a function of the strengths of the two other fields. In the limit of low saturation, we reveal the physics of these resonances and associate them with atomic excitation pathways, which we explicitly explain in the bare-states picture.
Real‐time diagnostics for metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy

Metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy is a complicated process whereby constituents of incoming reactant species are incorporated into the growing crystal through a number of stages. A range of optical probes has been developed to provide detailed information about these stages and the sample as growth proceeds. While many of these probes are mature, spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) and polarimetry (SP) are both undergoing rapid improvements as a result of applications in integrated-circuits technology. Here, I review some of these advances and the motivation behind them, and illustrate capabilities with an application regarding the heteroepitaxial growth of GaSb on GaAs.
A global view of graduate process control education

This paper reviews the status of graduate level process control education and surveys graduate process control offerings for more than 50 chemical engineering and control engineering departments throughout the world. There apparently has been no such survey conducted in over 10 years. Courses are categorized by their content and focus (selected topics versus integrated subject), use of case studies and projects, and the presence of a laboratory component. Observations on how graduate education varies around the world are made, and the influence of interdisciplinary control engineering degree programs is discussed. New possibilities for content delivery via distance education are described, and the feasibility of web-based shared curriculum content (a virtual textbook) is explored. Finally we present the industrial view of desirable attributes for Ph.D. graduates in the systems area.
The polyembryonic wasp Copidosoma floridanum produces two castes by differentially parceling the germ line to daughter embryos during embryo proliferation.

Eggs of the polyembryonic wasp Copidosoma floridanum undergo a clonal phase of proliferation, which results in the formation of thousands of embryos called secondary morulae and two castes called reproductive and soldier larvae. C. floridanum establishes the germ line early in development, and prior studies indicate that embryos with primordial germ cells (PGCs) develop into reproductive larvae while embryos without PGCs develop into soldiers. However, it is unclear how embryos lacking PGCs form and whether all or only some morulae contribute to the proliferation process. Here, we report that most embryos lacking PGCs form by division of a secondary morula into one daughter embryo that inherits the germ line and another that does not. C. floridanum embryos also incorporate 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU), which allows PGCs and other cell types to be labeled during the S phase of the cell cycle. Continuous BrdU labeling indicated that all secondary morulae cycle during the proliferation phase of embryogenesis. Double labeling with BrdU and the mitosis marker anti-phospho-histone H3 indicated that the median length of the G2 phase of the cell cycle was 18 h with a minimum duration of 4 h. Mitosis of PGCs and presumptive somatic stem cells in secondary morulae was asynchronous, but cells of the inner membrane exhibited synchronous mitosis. Overall, our results suggest that all secondary morulae contribute to the formation of new embryos during the proliferation phase of embryogenesis and that PGCs are involved in regulating both proliferation and caste formation.
Expansion and Length-Dependent Fragility of CTG Repeats in Yeast

Expansion of DNA trinucleotide repeats (TNRs) is the causative mutation in a growing number of human genetic diseases. Large expansions of a CTG tract were obtained and shown by genetic and physical assays to be length-dependent sites of chromosome breakage in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Deletion of RAD27, which encodes a nuclease involved in Okazaki fragment processing, caused length-dependent destabilization of CTG tracts and a substantial increase in expansion frequency. The genetic assay described here can be used to evaluate other factors that induce TNR expansion or chromosome fragility in humans.
Hypermedia-based courseware development for power engineering education

The authors explore the potential of developing hypermedia-based courseware for power engineering undergraduate education. This is accomplished by first outlining the deficiencies of the conventional classroom lecture environment that can be compensated for by properly designed courseware. An authoring system for developing hypermedia-based applications is also described. Finally, a program developed for an introductory power engineering course is used to demonstrate the potential uses of hypermedia-based courseware. >
Elements of Moral Maturity

This paper offers an image of moral maturity that consists of seven elements: moral agency, harnessing cognitive ability, harnessing emotional resources, using social skill, using principles, respe...
Designing Gelatin Nanocarriers as a Swellable System for Controlled Release of Insulin: An In- Vitro Kinetic Study

In the present investigation gelatin nanoparticles have been synthesized and characterized by various techniques like FTIR, scanning electron microscopy, particle size analysis and surface charge measurements. The particles were allowed to swell in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) and the influence of various factors like chemical composition of nanoparticles, pH and temperature of the swelling bath was investigated on the water intake capacity of the gelatin nanoparticles. The particles were loaded with insulin and the release kinetics of insulin was studied in PBS medium under different conditions. The effects of percent loading of drug, chemical composition of nanoparticles and pH, temperature of the release medium were examined on the release profiles of the drug and the possible mechanisms of drug transport were investigated. The chemical stability of the loaded drug (insulin) was also assessed especially under highly acidic conditions of artificial gastric juice.
Proxy decision making for incompetent patients. An ethical and empirical analysis.

RECENTLY, proxy or surrogate decision making regarding the termination of life-sustaining interventions for incompetent patients has been widely endorsed and promoted. After theCruzandecision and the Patient Self-Determination Act of 1990, many states enacted proxy statutes specifically for health care. Indeed, even states such as New York and Massachusetts, which in the past had avoided enacting any legislation on living wills and securing the rights of patients, have quickly adopted See also pp 2082 and 2101. health care proxy laws. Simultaneously with this growing enthusiasm for proxy decision making have arisen ethical and empirical doubts about whether proxies can select interventions that the patient would have selected. These divergent trends confront us just as there is a growing need to develop policies on this issue. Consequently, it is important to examine several questions on proxy decision making: How widely endorsed is proxy decision making? What is the justification of
Chemically Transformable Configurations of Mercaptohexadecanoic Acid Self-Assembled Monolayers Adsorbed on Au(111)

Carboxyl-terminated self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) are commonly used in a variety of applications, with the assumption that the molecules form well-ordered monolayers. In this work, near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure measurements verify that well-ordered monolayers can be formed using acetic acid in the solvent. Disordered monolayers with unbound molecules present in the film result using only ethanol. A stark reorientation occurs upon deprotonation of the end group by rinsing in a KOH solution. This reorientation of the end group is reversible with tilted-over, hydrogen-bound carboxyl groups while the carboxylate ion end groups are upright. C(1s) photoemission shows that SAMs formed and rinsed with acetic acid in ethanol have protonated end groups, while SAMs formed without acetic acid have a large fraction of carboxylate-terminated molecules.
Positronium in relativistic quantum mechanics

Abstract The problem of bound states of a charged particle and its antiparticle is formulated in the framework of the relativistic quantum mechanics of a single scalar particle interacting with the electromagnetic field. The Coulomb interaction between the particle and the antiparticle gives rise to the bound states, and the coupling of the wave function to the radiation field is responsible for the decay of the pair into electromagnetic energy. The contribution of a pion-pion interaction is discussed briefly. The theory is extended to the spin- 1 2 electron.
Photosynthetic performance of invasive Pinus ponderosa and Juniperus virginiana seedlings under gradual soil water depletion

Changes in climate, land management and fire regime have contributed to woody species expansion into grasslands and savannas worldwide. In the USA, Pinus ponderosa P.&C. Lawson and Juniperus virginiana L. are expanding into semiarid grasslands of Nebraska and other regions of the Great Plains. We examined P. ponderosa and J. virginiana seedling response to soil water content, one of the most important limiting factors in semiarid grasslands, to provide insight into their success in the region. Photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII, maximum carboxylation velocity, maximum rate of electron transport, stomatal limitation to photosynthesis, water potential, root-to-shoot ratio, and needle nitrogen content were followed under gradual soil water depletion for 40 days. J. virginiana maintained lower L(s), higher A, g(s), and initial F(v)/F(m), and displayed a more gradual decline in V(cmax) and J(max) with increasing water deficit compared to P. ponderosa. J. virginiana also invested more in roots relative to shoots compared to P. ponderosa. F(v)/F(m) showed high PSII resistance to dehydration in both species. Photoinhibition was observed at approximately 30% of field capacity. Soil water content was a better predictor of A and g(s) than Psi, indicating that there are other growth factors controlling physiological processes under increased water stress. The two species followed different strategies to succeed in semiarid grasslands. P. ponderosa seedlings behaved like a drought-avoidant species with strong stomatal control, while J. virginiana was more of a drought-tolerant species, maintaining physiological activity at lower soil water content. Differences between the studied species and the ecological implications are discussed.
Comparative mass determinations of isolated liver cell nuclei by schlieren and interference microscopy.

Abstract The dry mass of isolated liver cell nuclei was determined with an interference microscope and with a schlieren grating microscope. Sufficient agreement between the results obtained indicate that the latter new, inexpensive instrument provides a means of measuring refractive properties of cells or cell structures.
Focusing properties of hemispherical mirrors for total integrating scattering instruments

Focusing properties are derived of a hemispherical mirror (also called a Coblentz sphere) used in total integrated scattering (TIS) instruments for the measurement of surface roughness. Analytical formulas for the scattered-light dependence on scattering angle and on the position of the photodetector and sample (with respect to the hemisphere) are given. From these formulas one can estimate useful parameters related to the construction and performance evaluation of TIS instruments, including spherical aberration of the hemispherical mirror, solid angle of the scattered light collected by a photodetector of a given size, and optimal size of the photodetector and its position with respect to the basal plane of the mirror.
An Immortalized Myocyte Cell Line, HL-1, Expresses a Functional δ -Opioid Receptor

Abstract The present study characterizes opioid receptors in an immortalized myocyte cell line, HL-1. Displacement of [ 3 H]bremazocine by selective ligands for the mu ( μ ), delta ( δ ), and kappa ( κ ) receptors revealed that only the δ -selective ligands could fully displace specific [ 3 H]bremazocine binding, indicating the presence of only the δ -receptor in these cells. Saturation binding studies with the δ -antagonist naltrindole afforded a B max of 32 fmols/mg protein and a K D value for [ 3 H]naltrindole of 0.46 n M . The binding affinities of various δ ligands for the receptor in HL-1 cell membranes obtained from competition binding assays were similar to those obtained using membranes from a neuroblastoma×glioma cell line, NG108-15. Finally, various δ -agonists were found to stimulate the binding of [ 35 S]GTP γ S, confirming coupling of the cardiac δ -receptor to G-protein. DADLE (D-Ala-D-Leu-enkephalin) was found to be the most efficacious in this assay, stimulating the binding of [ 35 S]GTP γ S to 27% above basal level. The above results indicate that the HL-1 cell line contains a functionally coupled δ -opioid receptor and therefore provides an in vitro model by which to study the direct effects of opioids on cardiac opioid receptors.
PRODUCTION AND PERSISTENCE OF UV-INDUCED TAN

Approximately 1,000,000 individuals patronize indoor tanning salons in the U.S. on any given day (1). It was estimated that in 1999 there were approximately 27 million visits to tanning salons in the U.S. (2). A survey of users in the U.K. reported that a typical use pattern is 20 visits per year, but that some avid tanners make 100 visits or more per year (3). Additionally, although not well quantified, large numbers of people use tanning lamps in the home. This could result in a large proportion of an individual’s total cumulative UV exposure being contributed by artificial UV sources.
Towards an Optimal Affect-Sensitive Instructional System of cognitive skills

While great strides have been made in computer vision toward automatically recognizing human affective states, much less is known about how to utilize these state estimates in intelligent systems. For the case of intelligent tutoring systems (ITS) in particular, there is yet no consensus whether responsiveness to students' affect will result in more effective teaching systems. Even if the benefits of affect recognition were well established, there is yet no obvious path for creating an affect-sensitive automated tutor. In this paper we present the first steps of the OASIS project, whose goal is to develop Optimal Affect-Sensitive Instructional Systems. We present results of a pilot study to develop affect-sensitive tutors of “cognitive skills”. The study was designed to: (1) assess the importance of affect to teaching, and also (2) collect training data with ecological validity that could later be used to develop an automated teacher. Experimental results suggest that affect-sensitivity is associated with higher learning gains. Behavioral analysis using automatic facial expression coding of recorded videos also suggests that smile may reveal embarrassment rather than achievement in learning scenarios.
Inquiry-Based Learning: Inflammation as a Model to Teach Molecular Techniques for Assessing Gene Expression †

This laboratory module simulates the process used by working scientists to ask and answer a question of biological interest. Instructors facilitate acquisition of knowledge using a comprehensive, inquiry-based approach in which students learn theory, hypothesis development, experimental design, and data interpretation and presentation. Using inflammation in macrophages as a model system, students perform a series of molecular biology techniques to address the biological question: “Does stimulus ‘X’ induce inflammation?” To ask this question, macrophage cells are treated with putative inflammatory mediators and then assayed for evidence of inflammatory response. Students become familiar with their assigned mediator and the relationship between their mediator and inflammation by conducting literature searches, then using this information to generate hypotheses which address the effect of their mediator on induction of inflammation. The cellular and molecular approaches used to test their hypotheses include transfection and luciferase reporter assay, immunoblot, fluorescence microscopy, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and quantitative PCR. Quantitative and qualitative reasoning skills are developed through data analysis and demonstrated by successful completion of post-lab worksheets and the generation and oral presentation of a scientific poster. Learning objective assessment relies on four instruments: pre-lab quizzes, post-lab worksheets, poster presentation, and posttest. Within three cohorts (n = 85) more than 95% of our students successfully achieved the learning objectives.
Structure and dynamics of serine hydrolase-organophosphate adducts.

The structural profile for the interactions between serine proteases and organophosphorus (OP) compounds can be deduced from recent NMR and X-ray crystallographic data. Using the rationale proposed for serine proteases, dynamic data on the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase by OP compounds is also consistent with structural constraints and an impairment of the proton switch mechanism during phosphylation.
Multiscale Variability and Uncertainty Quantification Based on a Generalized Multiscale Markov Model

Variability is inherent randomness in systems, whereas uncertainty is due to lack of knowledge. In this paper, a generalized multiscale Markov (GMM) model is proposed to quantify variability and uncertainty simultaneously in multiscale system analysis. The GMM model is based on a new imprecise probability theory that has the form of generalized interval, which is a Kaucher or modal extension of classical set-based intervals to represent uncertainties. The properties of the new definitions of independence and Bayesian inference are studied. Based on a new Bayes’ rule with generalized intervals, three cross-scale validation approaches that incorporate variability and uncertainty propagation are also developed.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Replacement correction factors for photon and electron dose measurements

A ‘‘gradient correction factor’’ and an ‘‘electron fluence correction factor’’ are used in the AAPM Task Group 21 dosimetry protocol, the product of the two being the ‘‘replacement correction factor.’’ The separation of two physical processes, implied by the concepts, is theoretically unfounded. The proof of this statement rests on Fano’s theorem, the conditions for which constitute a case without variations in fluence or its directional and energy distributions. Deviations from these conditions represent gradients in the radiation field, affect the response of a measurement cavity, and do so by perturbing the fluence of electrons that deposit energy in the cavity. Thus, in beams of both electrons and photons, corrections are required when fluence variations exist in the vicinity of the cavity. The rationale for an electron fluence correction based on ‘‘in‐scattering’’ and ‘‘obliquity’’ is weak, since the effects only occur when gradients are present. The choice of values for the two correction factors at the depth of maximum dose are particularly inconsistent with the actual characteristics of the radiation field.
Analysis of an over-constrained adaptive array

In antenna arrays, the number of nulls that can be formed independently is equal to or less than the number of array elements minus one. Therefore, if the number of interferences exceeds the number of freedom for pattern synthesis in adaptive arrays, nulls in the radiation pattern can not be steered toward each interference direction. To clarify the behavior of the adaptive array in such an environment, an analysis is made for the case where two interferences are impinging on the two-element directionally constrained adaptive array. As a result, it is proved that the adaptive array acts to reduce the undesired noise power at the array output. However, improvement in output signal-to-noise ratio is insufficient because of the limitation in null formation.
Comparison of estrogens and estrogen metabolites in human breast tissue and urine

Background: An important aspect of the link between estrogen and breast cancer is whether urinary estrogen levels are representative of the intra-tissue levels of bioavailable estrogens. Methods: This study compares 15 estrogen and estrogen metabolite levels in breast tissue and urine of 9 women with primary breast cancer using a quantitative liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method. Results: The average levels of estrogens (estrone, 17 beta-estradiol) were significantly higher in breast tissue than in urine. Both the 2 and the 16-hydroxylation pathways were less represented in breast tissue than urine; no components of the 4-hydroxypathway were detected in breast tissue, while 4-hydroxyestrone was measured in urine. However, the 2/16 ratio was similar in urine and breast tissue. Women carrying the variant CYP1B1 genotype (Leu/Val and Val/Val) showed significantly lower overall estrogen metabolite, estrogen, and 16-hydroxylation pathway levels in breast tissue in comparison to women carrying the wild type genotype. No effect of the CYP1B1 polymorphism was observed in urinary metabolites. Conclusions: The urinary 2/16 ratio seems a good approximation of the ratio observed in breast tissue. Metabolic genes may have an important role in the estrogen metabolism locally in tissues where the gene is expressed, a role that is not readily observable when urinary measurements are performed.
A multi-channel instrumentation system for biosignal recording

This paper reports a highly integrated battery operated multi-channel instrumentation system intended for physiological signal recording. The mixed signal IC has been fabricated in standard 0.5μm 5V 3M-2P CMOS process and features 32 instrumentation amplifiers, four 8b SAR ADCs, a wireless power interface with Li-ion battery charger, low power bidirectional telemetry and FSM controller with power gating control for improved energy efficiency. The chip measures 3.2mm by 4.8mm and dissipates ∼2.1mW when fully operational.