cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perturbation-Based Diagnosis of False Data Injection Attack Using Distributed Energy Resources

Modern smart grid relies on various sensor measurements for its operational control. In a successful false data injection attack, the attacker manipulates the measurements from the grid sensors such that undetected errors are introduced into the estimates of the system parameters leading to catastrophic situations. This article proposes a novel perturbation based false data injection attack detection mechanism that utilizes inverter based distributed energy resources (DERs) to create low magnitude perturbation signal in the distribution system voltage that is inconsequential to the normal grid operation. Two voltage sensitivity analysis based algorithms are designed to identify the optimal set of DERs that can create the voltage perturbation signal of desired magnitude. An analytical method of voltage sensitivity analysis is used to compute the magnitude of voltage perturbation signal at each node in a computationally efficient manner. Then, a detection mechanism is developed that checks for the presence of the perturbation sequence in each sensor measurement. A sensor measurement is deemed authentic if the voltage perturbation signal is present in the data. In case of sensor malfunction or cyber-attack, the perturbation signal will not be present in the measurement data. Performance of the proposed attack detection mechanism is validated via simulation of the IEEE 69 bus test system.
Three‐dimensional bladder ultrasound for estimation of urine volume in dogs compared with traditional 2‐dimensional ultrasound methods

Background Although point-of-care volumetric assessments of the urinary bladder are not routinely performed in dogs, urine volume quantification can provide important clinical information including noninvasive urine output estimation. Hypothesis/objective Use of 3-dimensional (3D) ultrasound for determination of urinary bladder volume (UBV) in dogs will be accurate for different bladder volumes and will decrease the need for operator skill in measuring UBV compared to 2-dimensional (2D) ultrasound evaluation. Animals Ten laboratory-bred Beagle dogs. Methods Prospective, experimental study. Urinary bladders were infused with a calculated amount of sterile saline to represent small, medium, and large volumes. Each UBV was estimated and calculated by a board-certified veterinary radiologist using 3 different 2D ultrasound formulas followed by use of a 3D ultrasound device by a novice. Measured UBVs were compared to the instilled UBV for both 2D and 3D ultrasound methods. Time from start to end of examination was recorded for both ultrasound methods in a subset of dogs. Results The 3D ultrasound device underestimated UBV with a mean difference of -9.8 mL compared with 2D ultrasound that overestimated UBV with a difference of +4.2 to 20.3 mL dependent on the 2D formula used. The 3D ultrasound method took less time to measure UBV (mean of 80 seconds per measurement) compared to the 2D method (165 seconds per measurement; P = .02). Conclusions and clinical importance The tested 3D ultrasound device was found to be an accurate and rapid point-of-care tool for measuring UBV in dogs, providing a noninvasive method to estimate bladder volume in real time.
Planning Qualitative Research: Design and Decision Making for New Researchers:

For students and novice researchers, the choice of qualitative approach and subsequent alignment among problems, research questions, data collection, and data analysis can be particularly tricky. T...
Identifiability Analysis of Linear Ordinary Differential Equation Systems with a Single Trajectory

Ordinary differential equations (ODEs) are widely used to model dynamical behavior of systems. It is important to perform identifiability analysis prior to estimating unknown parameters in ODEs (a.k.a. inverse problem), because if a system is unidentifiable, the estimation procedure may fail or produce erroneous and misleading results. Although several qualitative identifiability measures have been proposed, much less effort has been given to developing \emph{quantitative} (continuous) scores that are robust to uncertainties in the data, especially for those cases in which the data are presented as a single trajectory beginning with one initial value. In this paper, we first derived a closed-form representation of linear ODE systems that are not identifiable based on a single trajectory. This representation helps researchers design practical systems and choose the right prior structural information in practice. Next, we proposed several quantitative scores for identifiability analysis in practice. In simulation studies, the proposed measures outperformed the main competing method significantly, especially when noise was presented in the data. We also discussed the asymptotic properties of practical identifiability for high-dimensional ODE systems and conclude that, without additional prior information, many random ODE systems are practically unidentifiable when the dimension approaches infinity.
To Honor and to Grow: Recommendations for the Enduring Family Business

Family businesses are unique and complex; they have aspects and layers to them that are unlike any other organizations because at the root of family businesses' identities are the aspirations of both the business and the family's members, which could be at odds with one another. This note—a meta-analysis drawn from many authors' work—explores an approach that identifies ways to unify family and business, examining new possibilities and building a strong resiliency in the process. This analysis of various characteristics within family businesses provides opportunities to learn about how families are unique, offers examples of family businesses (when possible), and, most importantly, leads to clear recommendations. Excerpt UVA-ENT-0224 Rev. Jan. 17, 2020 To Honor and to Grow: Recommendations for the Enduring Family Business Family businesses are unique and complex; they have aspects and layers to them that are unlike any other organizations. Interesting and importantly, they combine Freud's idea of what constitutes a complete life: "lieben und arbeiten [to love and to work]." At the root of family businesses' identities are the aspirations of both the business and the family. These two sets of goals are often seen as opposites, which suggests a need to "reconcile," "manage," or overcome such "conflicting sets of demands." In this way, a family business must then choose between the needs of the business and the needs of the family. Perhaps a more effective approach is a more expansive view—one that identifies ways to unify family and business, exploring new possibilities and building a strong resiliency in the process. The examination of various characteristics within family businesses provides opportunities to learn about how families are unique, offer examples of family businesses (when possible), and, most importantly, lead to clear recommendations. These characteristics include family and business, business history and current reality, preservation and adaptation, family transitions and succession planning, the idea of an "open bubble," a changing market environment for a company steeped in its legacy, family and culture in a business, new forms of communication with the same messaging, one family with new members, and plans for the future that are consistent and relevant. As such, each section of this note will demonstrate how family businesses can embrace their inherent complexities and challenges to create differentiating and enduring advantages.
Single-Stage Versus Multistage Surgical Management of Single- and Two-Level Lumbar Degenerative Disease.

Objective To determine postoperative complications and quality outcomes of single-stage and multistage surgical management for lumbar degenerative disease (LDD). Methods This retrospective cohort study using a national administrative database identified patients who underwent surgery for LDD between 2007 and 2016. Patients were stratified based on whether their surgeon chose to perform single-stage or multistage LDD surgery, and these cohorts were mutually exclusive. Propensity score matching was used to mitigate intergroup differences between single-stage and multistage patients. Patients who underwent ≥3 levels of surgical correction, who were Results Primary surgery for LDD was performed in 47,190 patients; 9438 (20%) of these patients underwent multistage surgery. After propensity score matching, baseline covariates of the 2 cohorts were similar. The complication rate was 6.1% in the single-stage cohort and 11.0% in the multistage cohort. Rates of posthemorrhagic anemia, infection, wound complication, deep vein thrombosis, and hematoma all were higher in the multistage cohort. Length of stay, revisions, and readmissions were also significantly higher in the multistage cohort. Through 2 years of follow-up, multistage surgery was associated with higher payments throughout the 2-year follow-up period ($57,036 vs. $39,318, P Conclusions Single-stage surgery for LDD demonstrated improved outcomes and lower health care utilization. Spine surgeons should carefully consider single-stage surgery when treating patients with LDD requiring
New frontiers in vascular access practice: from standardized to patient-tailored care and shared decision making

Abstract Vascular access planning is critical in the management of patients with advanced kidney disease who elect for hemodialysis for RRT. Policies put in place more than two decades ago attempted to standardize vascular access care around the model of optimal, namely arteriovenous fistula, and least preferred, namely central venous catheter, type of access. This homogenized approach to vascular access care emerged ineffective in the increasingly heterogeneous and complex dialysis population. The most recent vascular access guidelines acknowledge the limitations of standardized care and encourage tailoring vascular access care on the basis of patient and disease characteristics. In this article, we discuss available literature in support of patient-tailored access care on the basis of differences in vascular access outcomes by biologic and social factors—age, sex, and race. Further, we draw attention to the overlooked dimension of patient-reported preferences and shared decision making in the practice of vascular access planning. We discuss milestones to overcome as requisite steps to implement effective shared decision making in vascular access care. Finally, we take into consideration local practice cofactors as major players in vascular access fate. We conclude that a personalized approach to hemodialysis vascular access will require dynamic care specifically relevant to the individual on the basis of biologic factors, fluctuating clinical needs, values, and preferences.
Dungeon and Platformer Level Blending and Generation using Conditional VAEs.

Variational autoencoders (VAEs) have been used in prior works for generating and blending levels from different games. To add controllability to these models, conditional VAEs (CVAEs) were recently shown capable of generating output that can be modified using labels specifying desired content, albeit working with segments of levels and platformers exclusively. We expand these works by using CVAEs for generating whole platformer and dungeon levels, and blending levels across these genres. We show that CVAEs can reliably control door placement in dungeons and progression direction in platformer levels. Thus, by using appropriate labels, our approach can generate whole dungeons and platformer levels of interconnected rooms and segments respectively as well as levels that blend dungeons and platformers. We demonstrate our approach using The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Mega Man and Lode Runner.
Nutritional Interventions and the Gut Microbiome in Children

The gut microbiome plays an integral role in health and disease, and diet is a major driver of its composition, diversity, and functional capacity. Given the dynamic development of the gut microbiome in infants and children, it is critical to address two major questions: (a) Can diet modify the composition, diversity, or function of the gut microbiome, and (b) will such modification affect functional/clinical outcomes including immune function, cognitive development, and overall health? We synthesize the evidence on the effect of nutritional interventions on the gut microbiome in infants and children across 26 studies. Findings indicate the need to study older children, assess the whole intestinal tract, and harmonize methods and interpretation of findings, which are critical for informing meaningful clinical and public health practice. These findings are relevant for precision health, may help identify windows of opportunity for intervention, and may inform the design and delivery of such interventions.
On exploratory analytic method for multi-way contingency tables with an ordinal response variable and categorical explanatory variables

Abstract In this paper, we propose a new model-free exploratory method for descriptive modeling that identifies and measures the regression dependence between an ordinal response variable and categorical (ordinal or nominal) explanatory variables in a multi-way contingency table. The proposed methodology consists of three parts, checkerboard copula score, checkerboard copula regression, and checkerboard copula association measure. The checkerboard copula score is a new type of score for ordinal variables that preserves the natural ordering of the categorical scale and it will be exploited for developing the methods measuring the association between the variables of interest. The checkerboard copula regression identifies the regression dependence between an ordinal response variable and categorical explanatory variables. It enables delineating the identified dependence in an exploratory manner. The checkerboard copula association measure quantifies the strength of the dependence identified by the checkerboard copula regression. We investigate the properties of checkerboard copula scores, checkerboard copula regression, its association measure, and their estimators. Finally, the performance of the proposed method is illustrated with simulation and real data.
Mothering Gender and Sexually Nonconforming Children in Taiwan

How do emerging and enduring conditions of motherhood in Taiwan shape mothers’ interactions with children who are gender or sexually nonconforming? Bridging research on the transformation of mothering discourses in Taiwan and globally with the small but growing body of work on LGBT family of origin relationships, this article argues that women’s experiences of raising gender and sexually nonconforming children are integrally shaped by the conditions of gender and family inequality in their own lives. These inequalities are sometimes challenged but often reinscribed by new parenting discourses and resources that have proliferated in late 20th and early 21st century Taiwan, including new forms of parental labor, accountability for child outcomes, and emerging expert voices on sexuality and parenthood. This analysis is rooted in ethnographic fieldwork and family history interviews with gender and sexually nonconforming people and with their families of origin throughout Taiwan, with emphasis on heterosexual ...
Development and use of an animal model to study post-traumatic stiffness and contracture of the elbow

Post-traumatic joint stiffness (PTJS) of the elbow is a debilitating condition that poses unique treatment challenges. While previous research has implicated capsular tissue in PTJS, much regarding the development and progression of this condition remains unknown. The objective of this study was to develop an animal model of post-traumatic elbow contracture and evaluate its potential for studying the etiology of PTJS. The Long-Evans rat was identified as the most appropriate species/breed for development due to anatomical and functional similarities to the human elbow joint. Two surgical protocols of varying severity were utilized to replicate soft tissue damage seen in elbow subluxation/dislocation injuries, including anterior capsulotomy and lateral collateral ligament transection, followed by 6 weeks of unilateral joint immobilization. Following sacrifice, flexion-extension mechanical joint testing demonstrated decreased range-of-motion and increased stiffness for injured-immobilized limbs compared to control and sham animals, where functional impact correlated with severity of injury. Histological evaluation showed increased cellularity, adhesion, and thickness of capsule tissue in injured limbs, consistent with clinical evidence. To our knowledge, this is the first animal model capable of examining challenges unique to the anatomically and biomechanically complex elbow joint. Future studies will use this animal model to investigate mechanisms responsible for PTJS.
Orally administered microencapsulated reovirus can bypass suckled, neutralizing maternal antibody that inhibits active immunization of neonates.

Purified reovirus serotype 1, encapsulated in biodegradable aqueous microcapsules, was found to bypass maternal antibody passively transferred by suckling to neonates. Genetically identical, immunocompetent F1 scid/+ mice were generated by the reciprocal crosses of C.B17 scid/scid and normal congenic +/+ adult mice. The immunocompetent +/+ dams were either orally infected with reovirus prior to mating or not. Thus, these immunocompetent F1 pups developed either in the absence or in presence of passively transferred maternal immunity. The F1 mice were orally immunized on day 10 with either live virus, microencapsulated reovirus, or empty microcapsules plus live virus. The immune responses were assessed in the neonatal gut-associated lymphoid tissues (GALT). Examination of reovirus specific immunoglobulin A in the serum and GALT, taken on days 7, 14, and 21 postimmunization, clearly demonstrated that microencapsulated reovirus could bypass the normal effect of maternal antibodies, passively acquired by suckling, to inhibit active priming of neonates by oral route. These observations seem relevant to the development of efficacious oral vaccines that also allow passive, protective immunity via suckled maternal antibodies while permitting active oral immunization of neonates.
Assessing the Effects of Flow-Sensitivity on Pointer Alias Analyses

This paper describes an empirical comparison of four context-insensitive pointer alias analysis algorithms that use varying degrees of flow-sensitivity: a flow-insensitive algorithm that tracks variables whose addresses were taken and stored; a flow-insensitive algorithm that computes a solution for each function; a variant of this algorithm that uses precomputed kill information; and a flow-sensitive algorithm. In addition to contrasting the precision and efficiency of these analyses, we describe implementation techniques and quantify their analysis-time speed-up.
Stochastic stability of sampled data systems with a jump linear controller

In this paper an equivalence between the stochastic stability of a sampled-data system and its associated discrete-time representation is established. The sampled-data system consists of a deterministic, linear, time-invariant, continuous-time plant and a stochastic, linear, time-invariant, discrete-time, jump linear controller. The jump linear controller models computer systems and communication networks that are subject to stochastic upsets or disruptions. This sampled-data model has been used in the analysis and design of fault-tolerant systems and computer-control systems with random communication delays without taking into account the inter-sample response. This paper shows that the known equivalence between the stability of a deterministic sampled-data system and the associated discrete-time representation holds even in a stochastic framework.
Magnetic loading of artificial magnetic conductors for bandwidth enhancement

A magnetically loaded artificial magnetic conductor (Mag-AMC) providing enhanced bandwidth has been developed. The design is a variation of the Sievenpiper (Ph.D. diss., UCLA Elec. Eng. Dept., 1999) "thumbtack" structure, which makes use of a low-loss, aligned, barium-cobalt hexaferrite material in the spacer layer. The design has been carefully engineered to align the high impedance and surface wave bandgap frequency bands. The demonstrated result is greater than four times improvement in bandwidth relative to a conventional structure of the same thickness. Using this Mag-AMC it is possible to build an antenna to instantaneously cover the UHF LOS frequency band in a depth of about 1.5".
The Option To Refuse A Tool in Understanding Nonresponse in Mailed Surveys

A questionnaire was mailed to all members of the congregation of a Lutheran church. The materials sent included a postcard to be mailed separately to indicate when the questionnaire had been returned. Two versions of the postcard were used; one included space for the respondent to indicate no intention to return the questionnaire and the reason why not ("negative"postcard). There were more refusals among those receiving the "negative" postcard, but the final response rates for both groups were comparable. Analysis of the reasons for refusal indicated most often that the salience of the questionnaire topic was low.
Different Techniques to Identify Management Zones Impact Nitrogen and Phosphorus Sampling Variability

The efficiency of the management zone approach to improve fertilizer recommendations relies on accurately locating zone boundaries. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of different techniques of identifying management zones on soil NO - 3-N and Olsen-P (sodium bicarbonate extractable-P) sampling variability. Soil samples were collected on a 60 by 60 m or denser grid, in three fields (65, 53, and 40 ha). These samples were analyzed for NO - 3-N and Olsen-P. Soil nutrient data was used to simulate the effect of different techniques to identify P and N management zone boundaries. Approaches evaluated for locating management zone sampling boundaries included: (i) sampling areas impacted by old homesteads or animals separately from the rest of the field; (ii) sampling different grid cells; (iii) use of geographic information systems (GIS) or cluster analysis to identify zones based on apparent electrical conductivity (EC a ), elevation, aspect, and distance (connectedness); and (iv) sampling each soil series separately. An F statistic was used to determine if the sampling approach reduced nutrient sampling variability. Results suggested that: (i) old homesteads or areas impacted by animals should be sampled separately from the rest of the field; (ii) grid-cell sampling was more consistent in reducing within zone soil-test variability than the other techniques tested; and (iii) zones that are not continuous should be sampled and managed separately.
Effects of Adolescent Childbearing on Latino Siblings Changes in Family Dynamics and Feelings Toward the Teen Mother

Latinos have had the highest teenage birthrate of any racial or ethnic group in the United States for the past 15 years, yet little is known about how Latino families are affected by a teenage daughter’s childbearing. In-depth interviews were conducted with 32 Mexican American younger siblings of parenting teens to discern how their sister’s childbearing had affected them and their families. The most commonly reported negative effects were increased family stress and conflict, more arguments with the parenting older sister, and less time spent with family members. Regarding benefits, all youth described a loving bond with their sister’s baby, two thirds described their family becoming closer, and 81% felt closer to their older sister. The implications of these effects for Mexican American families are discussed.
Temperature dependence of the elastic moduli and damping for polycrystalline LiF-22% CaF2 eutectic salt

Young's and shear moduli and damping were measured for as-cast polycrystalline LiF-(22 mol pct)CaF2 eutectic specimens as a function of temperature using the piezoelectric ultrasonic composite oscillator technique. The shear modulus decreased with increasing temperature from about 40 GPa at 295 K to about 30 GPa at 1000 K, while the Young modulus decreased from about 115 GPa at 295 K to about 35 GPa at 900 K. These values are compared with those derived from the rule of mixtures using elastic moduli data for LiF and CaF2 single crystals. It is shown that, while the shear modulus data agree reasonably well with the predicted trend, there is a large discrepancy between the theoretical calculations and the Young modulus values, where this disagreement increases with increasing temperature.
Neural connections of sparrow pineal: role in circadian control of activity

Surgical and chemical interference with the neural connections of the house sparrow (Passer domesticus) pineal does not abolish the free-running rhythm in constant darkness, unlike pinealectomy. Pineals transplanted to the anterior chamber of the eye are capable of restoring rhythmicity to pinealectomized birds in constant darkness. The avian pineal does not appear to be neurally coupled to other components of the circadian system.
Surface Contamination by FTIR-PAS

Fourier Transform Infrared Photoacoustic Spectroscopy (FTIR-PAS) is used to study the contamination of alkyd painted panels by liquids and solids. These alkyd painted panels are stainless steel panels coated with primer and an alkyd resin based paint which the Army uses for its vehicles. Portions of these panels were contaminated by dimethyl methyl phosphonate, tri-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate, and triphenyl phosphate. The panels were then studied using FTIR-PAS, and the spectra identified.
Partnership intelligence and dominator intelligence: Their social roots, patterns, and consequences

In this article, Rob Koegel uses Riane Eisler's partnership and dominator models to examine the patterns of thinking, being and relating that make up what he calls partnership and dominator intelligences. He uses Howard Gardner's discussion of the intrapersonal and interpersonal forms of intelligence to explore the distinct patterns, the cultural sources, and the social consequences of partnership and dominator intelligence. Koegel concluded by showing how “the arts of partnership” can help us to build personal relationships and social institutions that support equality, mutuality, dialogue, nonviolence, and democratic social processes.
COMBINED LIGHT AND FLUORESCENT MICROSCOPICAL IMAGING OF NUCLEOLAR ORGANIZER REGIONS AND CELLULAR RRNA AS DETECTED BY FLUORESCENT IN SITU HYBRIDIZATION

A method for combined light and fluorescent microscopic imaging of nucleolar organizer regions and cellular rRNA is described. Nucleolar organizer regions were detected by silver staining (Ag-NOR), and rRNA was detected by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). MG-63 human fibrosarcoma cells were silver stained prior to in situ hybridization. To quantitate Ag-NOR within individual cells, brightfield images were digitized, and the total Ag-NOR area/nucleus was determined. Fluorescent images were digitized, and the total cellular fluorescence was calculated after correction for nonuniformity of illumination. By using this method, it was shown that the Ag-NOR procedure did not significantly affect the fluorescence intensity related to FISH. Furthermore, the hybridization procedure did not interfere with quantitation of Ag-NOR. With this method, both Ag-NOR and rRNA product can be quantitated within the same cell. Because the relationship of rRNA content to cell proliferation is well established, correlation to quantitative Ag-NOR parameters within individual cells will contribute to the better definition of the relationship of quantitative Ag-NOR indices with cellular proliferation.
The role of banned substance residue analysis in the control of dietary supplement contamination

The potential for contaminated dietary supplements to result in a failed doping test remains a concern for athletes, trainers, and sporting authorities despite improvements to regulatory guidelines. Previous surveys of readily available supplements confirm that many are contaminated with steroids and stimulants prohibited for use in elite sport. Suggested responses to this issue include the complete avoidance of all supplements. Many athletes, however, use nutritional supplements to achieve effective training and also to ensure that daily nutritional requirements are met (e.g. recommended levels of vitamins and minerals). This ensures that the use of supplements is and will remain the norm for a range of sports. As a result, an alternative approach of rigorous testing of materials destined for use by elite athletes has been introduced in several countries. While the testing of final product for banned substances may help mitigate the problem, it will not help to remove the underlying issue of contamination. In this article we describe an alternative approach that uses appropriate quality assurance procedures backed up by testing to remove sources of contamination. The decrease in the incidence of contamination amongst supplement companies adopting such a system is explained, and contrasted with the relatively high incidences of contamination found in products that are not part of a quality system. These findings are of key importance to both supplement manufacturers and those involved in advising athletes about supplement use. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An in vivo screen reveals protein-lipid interactions crucial for gating a mechanosensitive channel

The bacterial mechanosensitive channel MscL is the best-studied mechanosensor, thus serving as a paradigm of how a protein senses and responds to mechanical force. Models for the transition of Escherichia coli MscL from closed to open states propose a tilting of the transmembrane domains in the plane of the membrane, suggesting dynamic protein-lipid interactions. Here, we used a rapid in vivo assay to assess the function of channels that were post-translationally modified at several different sites in a region just distal to the cytoplasmic end of the second transmembrane helix. We utilized multiple probes with various affinities for the membrane environment. The in vivo functional data, combined with site-directed mutagenesis, single-channel analyses, and tryptophan fluorescence measurements, confirmed that lipid interactions within this region are critical for MscL gating. The data suggest a model in which this region acts as an anchor for the transmembrane domain tilting during gating. Furthermore, the conservation of analogous motifs among many other channels suggests a conserved protein-lipid dynamic mechanism.—Iscla, I., Wray, R., Blount, P. An in vivo screen reveals protein-lipid interactions crucial for gating a mechanosensitive channel.
Sympathetic nerve responses elicited by cocaine in anesthetized and conscious rats

Recent evidence suggests that cocaine decreases rather than increases sympathetic nerve discharge (SND). The purpose of the present study was to provide the first complete characterization of the dose-response relationships of cocaine (0.005-3 mg/kg, IV) for arterial pressure, heart rate, and lumbar, splanchnic, or renal SND in pentobarbital-anesthetized rats. Cocaine was also tested in conscious rats. In pentobarbital-anesthetized rats cocaine elicited prolonged (lasting up to 56 min), dose-dependent decreases in SND on all three nerves. The splanchnic nerve was significantly more sensitive to the inhibitory actions of cocaine than was the lumbar nerve. Cocaine increased arterial pressure and elicited bradycardia at doses above 0.5 mg/kg. Comparison of the dose-response curves of cocaine for splanchnic SND in sham-operated and sinoaortically deafferentated (SAD) rats showed that the baroreceptor reflex made only a minor contribution to the magnitude of sympathoinhibitory response. However, the duration of the sympathoinhibitory response was significantly shorter in SAD than in sham animals. In conscious rats, cocaine (0.1 and 1.0 mg/kg) elicited a pattern of neural and cardiovascular responses similar to that seen in anesthetized rats, except that the prolonged sympathoinhibitory responses were preceded by a brief (lasting < 10 s) increase in SND. From these data we conclude that cocaine produces prolonged decreases in SND in conscious and anesthetized rats. These sympathoinhibitory responses do not appear to result from baroreceptor reflex activation and may involve a central mechanism of action.
Structure, expression, and functional characterization of the mouse CLP-1 gene.

Abstract Mouse CLP-1, a potential cardiac transcriptional regulatory factor, is encoded by a single copy gene lacking introns that is expressed into two mRNAs via alternative polyadenylation. Both mRNAs encode the same 41 kDa protein, a novel protein that is 85.3% homologous with a human homologue called HIS1. Mouse CLP-1 is widely expressed in a number of tissues as well as in early development and is localized to the nucleus. The CLP-1 gene promoter is active in different cell types and sequence analysis shows a number of potential binding sites for cardiogenic transcription factors such as Nkx2.5 and GATA-4, indicating a potential role in development. CLP-1 appears to ‘squelch’ the cardiac MLC-2v promoter in a concentration-dependent manner in cardiac but not other cell types, suggesting that CLP-1 may be interacting with a cardiac-specific factor to regulate cardiac MLC-2v expression. The overall expression pattern of CLP-1 is similar to that of LCR-F1 and Oct-1, two widely expressed transcription factors that also play specific roles in the transcription of cell-specific genes. CLP-1 may be a transcriptional mediator capable of interacting with and potentiating cell-specific transcription factors.
An electron microscope study of the morphology and distribution of the intracytoplasmic virus-like particles of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells

Electron microscope studies of eight different sublines of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells which had not, as far as could be determined, come in contact with any known virus, revealed dense particles measuring approximately 55 to 70 mmicro in diameter, both within and attached to the wall of cytoplasmic vesicles identified as the endoplasmic reticulum. All tumor sublines contained significant numbers of particles and revealed no qualitative or quantitative differences in particle morphology or distribution. It is concluded that these structures are a constant morphological component of the Ehrlich ascites tumor and that they probably do not represent contaminating virus. Their morphology and distribution are described, and the possible interpretations of their significance are discussed.
PROBABILISTIC BASED DESIGN OF CONCENTRICALLY LOADED FIBER-REINFORCED POLYMERIC COMPRESSION MEMBERS

This paper presents an analytical probabilistic based design procedure for concentrically loaded compression members of fiber-reinforced polymeric composite materials. Resistance factors for use in a load and resistance factor design format are developed for flexural buckling of doubly symmetric sections, both flexural buckling and flexural-torsional buckling of equal leg angles, and material failure. The developed resistance factors are a function of the coefficient of variation of the appropriate material properties. The proposed resistance factors were determined to provide a reliability index of 3.0 for buckling limit states and a reliability index of 3.5 for the material fracture limit state. A proposed method of developing an allowable stress design code is also given.
Neurofibrillary degeneration can be arrested in an in vivo cellular model of human tauopathy by application of a compound which inhibits tau filament formation in vitro.

Although tau filament formation is a central event in familial tauopathies and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the cellular consequences of neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) formation are poorly understood because of the unavailability of mammalian in vivo cellular models of neurofibrillary degeneration (NFD). We have shown that human tau forms filaments and is associated with cytodegeneration when overexpressed chronically in identified neurons (ABCs) in the lamprey central nervous system (CNS). In this model, degeneration occurs according to a stereotyped sequence that closely resembles the pattern seen in tangle-bearing neurons in AD, with both tau deposition and fragmentation beginning in distal dendrites and progressing proximally over time. This sequence has been divided into four stages ranging from (1) mild beading of terminal dendrites only through (4) extensive dendritic fragmentation and loss. Here, we show that lipid-soluble, low-molecular-weight (approx 300 Da) proprietary compounds that have been demonstrated to block tau filament formation in vitro can significantly retard the progressive degeneration of ABCs that express human tau23. Bath application of one of these compounds for periods of up to 50 d after plasmid injection prevented degeneration beyond stage 2 in 90% of all treated cells, whereas over half of control cells showed severe degeneration by this time. This provides the first in vivo experimental evidence directly supporting a causal role for tau filament formation in the pathogenesis of NFD and suggests that intensive effort toward developing therapeutic agents for AD and other NFDs targeted at blocking tau filament formation is warranted.
Computer conferencing in the liberal arts classroom

This paper will present several successful uses of computer conferencing in liberal arts classes at Clemson University. For several years, Clemson has been experimenting with computer conferencing, but beginning in the fall of 1988, liberal arts faculty began to use conferencing as an adjunct to their typical discussion classes. Hundreds of students in English, History, and Political Science have now used conferencing at Clemson. These students have ranged from freshmen to graduate students, both technical and non-technical majors.The success of this method of classroom instruction has depended on several factors: the selection of appropriate conferencing software; the identification of interested, enthusiastic faculty; and the support of user services staff through education, documentation, and consulting. This paper will examine each factor contributing to the success of computer conferencing: What features of computer conferencing software do faculty need most? What type of class will benefit the most from computer conferencing? How much work is involved on the part of user services staff in supporting this function?Next, this paper will examine the feedback from the faculty and students. What do faculty like about the system? What new problems does it cause them? What do students have to say about computer conferencing? This paper will present actual evaluations from student users, ranging from those most comfortable with the technology to the most computerphobic.Finally, what features are lacking in existing computer conferencing systems that would improve their value as a help in classroom teaching? What groups of faculty other than liberal arts faculty would be best served by this type of system?
Enhanced fibrin remodeling in vitro with TGF-β1, insulin and plasmin for improved tissue-equivalents

Abstract The aim of this study was to better understand how to increase collagen content in and enhance mechanical properties of tissue-equivalents formed by entrapping tissue cells in fibrin gels, with the ultimate goal of developing mechanically robust artificial tissues. The two main areas of focus were cell culture medium composition and replacement frequency relative to a base case of incubating constructs in medium supplemented with just serum and replaced weekly. The optimal condition involved a combination of all three factors investigated—TGF- β 1, insulin, plasmin—with medium replacement three times a week. Compared to a base case without these three factors, the combination case resulted in 20 times more collagen and a ten-fold increase in tensile strength. The high strain modulus and tensile strength were within an order of magnitude of cardiovascular tissues. This study indicates great potential for fibrin-based tissue-equivalents in soft connective tissue applications.
Correcting Vehicle Shake

Abstract The mechanisms which cause shake on smooth roads and the procedures and equipment for removing it are reviewed. A critical comparison of various on‐ and off‐the‐car tire balancing methods is made. The effectiveness of tire grinding and trueing is reviewed with emphasis on the total system behavior. A statistical evaluation and analysis is presented of the potential errors contributed by off‐the‐car balancing and the vehicle itself, considering the imbalance vector components inherent in tire‐rim assemblies and vehicle axles. The use of a liquid tire balancer is also investigated.
The Troyer syndrome (SPG20) protein spartin interacts with Eps15

Abstract The hereditary spastic paraplegias comprise a group of inherited neurological disorders in which the primary manifestation is spastic weakness of the lower extremities. Troyer syndrome is an autosomal recessive form of spastic paraplegia caused by a frameshift mutation in the spartin ( SPG20 ) gene. Currently, neither the localization nor the functions of the spartin protein are known. In this study, we generated anti-spartin antibodies and found that spartin is both cytosolic and membrane-associated. Using a yeast two-hybrid approach, we screened an adult human brain library for binding partners of spartin. We identified Eps15, a protein known to be involved in endocytosis and the control of cell proliferation. This interaction was confirmed by fusion protein “pull-down” experiments as well as a cellular redistribution assay. Our results suggest that spartin might be involved in endocytosis, vesicle trafficking, or mitogenic activity, and that impairment in one of these processes may underlie the long axonopathy in patients with Troyer syndrome.
Water conservation through elimination of undesirable phreatophyte growth

A point is now being reached in our agricultural planning, especially in the Southwest, that all measures must be considered in extending the limited water supply. The removal of phreatophytes, which annually use enormous quantities of water in a very non-beneficial manner, is one method of augmenting the present supply. Existing eradication methods, post-treatment control, and land-use procedures need additional refinement and further development before a fully effective phreatophyte elimination program can be consummated.
Bounding filters in the presence of inexactly known parameters

Kalman-Bucy (K/B) filtering assumes that the linear dynamic system and corresponding noise statistics are exactly known. When this information is only approximately known, an optimum bounding filter can be designed for specific versions (steady state time-invariant with scalar observations) of the K/B problem. A system is designed in which the actual estimation error covariance is bounded by the covariance calculated by the estimator. Therefore, the estimator obtains a bound on the actual error covariance which is not available and also the apparent divergence is prevented. The bounding filter can be designed to be of lower order than the original system, however, this results in a higher error covariance. Conditions for the design of the optimum (minimum mean square error) bounding filter within a permissible class are derived. Since the specific K/B problem is formulated as an equivalent Wiener filtering problem, therefore, all the results are applicable to the design of bounding filters for Wiener problems. The design of a bounding filter is illustrated by an example.
Be the Argument, Be the Change

The chapters of David Fleming's story could, with modifications, be the chapters of all our stories (Burkean Parlor, Vol. 25.4, 2005). Until fairly recently, many of us have come into the disciplin...
Fate and transport of Irgarol 1051 in a modular estuarine mesocosm

Fate and transport of Irgarol 1051 were assessed using a modular estuarine mesocosm containing natural seawater, saltmarsh sediments, marsh grass, shrimp, clams, snails, and naturally derived planktonic and benthic microorganisms. The mesocosms were enclosed in a greenhouse under near ambient conditions, and included a saltwater sump and a simulated tidal flux. The exposure was comprised of four replicate treatments of 0, 100, 1,000 and 10,000 ng/L Irgarol. Solid-phase extraction (SPE) was used to extract Irgarol and its major metabolite M1 (aka GS26575) from water samples. Sediment samples were extracted using Accelerated Solvent Extraction (ASE) with 100% dichloromethane. Irgarol and M1 were separated and quantified utilizing Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) with ElectroSpray Ionization in Multiple Reaction Monitoring mode. Aqueous concentrations of Irgarol declined rapidly (average 93% loss) over the course of the 35 day experiment while Irgarol was accumulated in the sediments (average mass balance of 75 ± 5%). Loss of aqueous Irgarol occurred in two distinct phases, a relatively rapid phase up to 96 hours post-dose, and a slower phase following 96 hours. The rate constants of the initial rapid degradation phase (k1) for treatments 100 and 1,000 ng/L Irgarol were 2–3 times higher than the rate constants of the subsequent slow degradation phase (k2) for these treatments. The average half-life of Irgarol in water was 7 ± 3 days. The aqueous concentration of Irgarol's metabolite, M1 increased over the course of the experiment. By 35 days post-dose, M1 concentrations in water averaged about 3% of the parent compound. M1 also accumulated in mesocosm sediments (average 16.7 ± 2.5% of total Irgarol dose). Mass balance calculations showed that by 35 days, Irgarol and M1 amounts in mesocosm water and sediments were close to 100% of the initial Irgarol dose. Average partition coefficient normalized for organic carbon (log Koc) calculated for Irgarol was 3.2 ± 0.1 for 35 days post-dose. Accumulation of Irgarol and M1 in mesocosm sediments may warrant further study to assess toxicity for benthic communities.
Deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolisms in adult patients undergoing craniotomy for brain tumors

AbstractObjective: The development of venothromboembolisms (VTEs), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary emboli (PE), is common in brain tumor patients. Their development can be catastrophic. Studies evaluating pre-operative clinical factors that predispose patients to the development of VTE are few and limited. An understanding may help risk stratify patients and guide subsequent therapy aimed at reducing the risk of DVTs/PEs.Methods: All adult patients who underwent surgery for an intracranial tumor at an academic tertiary care institution between 1998 and 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. Stepwise multivariate logistical regression analysis was used to identify pre-operative factors associated with the development of peri-operative (within 30 days of surgery) DVTs/PEs among patients who underwent surgery of their intracranial tumor.Results: Of the 4293 patients in this study, 126 (3%) patients developed DVT and/or PE in the peri-operative period. The pre-operative factors independently a...
A Cultural Paradox: Elder Abuse in the Native American Community:

An emerging cultural paradox in the Native American community is the long history of respect for elders and the emergence of elder abuse as a problem. Elders commonly hold a special and respected place in traditional Native American societies due largely to their experience, knowledge, wisdom, and power as dreamers, healers, and teachers. Although violence against other tribal members is considered as unnatural and a threat to internal spiritual harmony, victimization, and abuse of elders and is recognized as a clandestine but increasing problem in the Native American community. This challenges health care providers and tribal members to provide safe and culturally congruent care to the elderly as well as coming to terms with this cultural paradox. There is a growing commitment by tribes to address this problem and to provide and honor the Native American elder. This article provides information for health care providers to better understand elder abuse in the cultural context of the Native American commu...