cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ex-ante assessment of struck-by safety hazards in construction projects: A motion-planning approach

Struck-by accidents are one of the major causes of fatalities and injuries in construction projects. While the likelihood of struck-by hazards is significantly affected by the layout of a jobsite, sequence of activities, and movement patterns of equipment and workers, there is currently no existing methodology for ex-ante investigation of struck-by safety hazards during the construction planning phase. In this paper, we propose a preliminary methodology for evaluation of struck-by safety hazards using a motion planning approach. We solve the problem of finding collision states and obstacle free paths for working in the middle of moving machinery and in the presence of various obstacles. We present, propose, and implement efficient algorithms to create safe routes for workers that avoid static and moving obstacles. We present a detailed case study of a common construction task involving struck-by hazards. We discuss several avenues for future work that could transform into robust methodologies for safety planning in complex construction projects.
Orientation of loci in the major histocompatibility complex of the rat and its comparison to man and the mouse.

Among 290 F2 progeny of an r10 X ACP cross were two recombinants which allowed the loci for glyoxalase-1 and neuraminidase-1 to be mapped relative to the RT1.A and dw-3 loci in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) of the rat. In 673 progeny of the same cross there was a recombinant between ft and dw-3, and in 403 progeny of the backcross BY1 X (BY1 X BDIX)F1 there was another recombinant between ft and dw-3. These data, combined with those from previous studies, provide the information for constructing a detailed map of the rat major histocompatibility complex: the gene order and size in the rat are very similar to those in the mouse and different from those in man and in the other species that have been studied. Comparison of the structures of the MHC in the various species leads to a hypothesis about the evolution of the MHC which involves sequential duplications of the genes coding for class I and class II loci and an inversion in the prototypic muridae which placed the class II loci between the class I loci.
Auto-catalytic Ceria Nanoparticles Offer Neuroprotection to Adult Rat Spinal Cord Neurons

This paper describes the evaluation of the auto-catalytic anti-oxidant behavior and biocompatibility of cerium oxide nanoparticles for applications in spinal cord repair and other diseases of the central nervous system. The application of a single dose of nano-ceria at a nano-molar concentration is biocompatible, regenerative and provides a significant neuroprotective effect on adult rat spinal cord neurons. Retention of neuronal function is demonstrated from electrophysiological recordings and the possibility of its application to prevent ischemic insult is suggested from an oxidative injury assay. A mechanism is proposed to explain the auto-catalytic properties of these nanoparticles.
Growth temperature controlled magnetism in molecular beam epitaxially grown Ni2MnAl Heusler alloy

Abstract Single crystal Heusler alloy Ni 2 MnAl thin films have been grown by molecular beam epitaxy on GaAs (0 0 1) using Sc 0.3 Er 0.7 As interlayers. The effect of growth temperature on the structural and magnetic properties was studied. Films grown at lower temperatures were non-ferromagnetic with a B2-like crystal structure; while higher growth temperature (400°C) resulted in ferromagnetic films suggesting a L2 1 -like structure. Exchange bias was detected in Ni 2 MnAl/Ni 2 MnGe (ferromagnetic) and Co/Ni 2 MnAl bilayers, suggesting that the Ni 2 MnAl films grown at 180°C (in the B2-like structure) are antiferromagnetically ordered.
Polarization-independent, broadband, bistable, 2 × 2 optical exchange switch

A polarization-independent, broadband, bistable, 2 × 2 optical exchange switch utilizing a surface-stabilized ferroelectric liquid-crystal device is presented. The switch has <−15-dB cross talk over a 50-nm optical bandwidth, with a minimum of −18 dB at 615 nm. By modeling the individual components the theoretical output of the device is obtained, which agrees well with experimental results. Four independent 2 × 2 switches incorporated into one single compact device are also demonstrated. The typical switching time for these switches is ∼150 μsec.
A New Way of Using ac Voltammetry To Study Redox Kinetics in Electroactive Monolayers

A new protocol for analyzing variable-frequency ac voltammetry (acv) data to obtain electron-transfer rate constants for redox-active groups immobilized in monolayer films on electrodes is described. The protocol involves plotting the ratio of the peak current to the background current as a function of the log of frequency and then fitting the plot to a calculated curve obtained using the Randles equivalent circuit model. The fitting procedure is particularly straightforward since it involves just two adjustable fitting parameters and can usually be performed manually in a spreadsheet. Advantages of the new method include the following: (1) it requires fewer adjustable fitting parameters than the conventional impedance analysis performed in the complex-plane format; (2) because there are fewer fitting parameters, there is less chance of the fit yielding a false convergence; (3) nonideal effects associated with a distribution of rate constants are apparently revealed in a particularly intuitive and easily...
Stereochemical configuration and provitamin A activity. XI. A comparison of synthetic all-trans- and Dicis-16, 16′-homo-β-carotene C42H58 with all-trans-β-carotene in the rat

A higher homolog of β-carotene, synthetic 16, 16′-homo-β-carotene, C42H58, exhibits, in the rat, a provitamin A effect amounting to 20% of that of all-trans-β-carotene. The all-trans and the central dicis forms of the homo-β-carotene are biochemically equivalent in the rat.
Controlled cortical impact injury influences methylphenidate‐induced changes in striatal dopamine neurotransmission

Traumatic brain injury features deficits are often ameliorated by dopamine (DA) agonists. We have previously shown deficits in striatal DA neurotransmission using fast scan cyclic voltammetry after controlled cortical impact (CCI) injury that are reversed after daily treatment with the DA uptake inhibitor methylphenidate (MPH). The goal of this study was to determine how a single dose of MPH (5 mg/kg) induces changes in basal DA and metabolite levels and with electrically evoked overflow (EO) DA in the striatum of CCI rats. MPH-induced changes in EO DA after a 2-week daily pre-treatment regime with MPH was also assessed. There were no baseline differences in basal DA or metabolite levels. MPH injection significantly increased basal [DA] output in dialysates for control but not injured rats. Also, MPH injection increased striatal peak EO [DA] to a lesser degree in CCI (176% of baseline) versus control rats (233% of baseline). However, daily pre-treatment with MPH resulted in CCI rats having a comparable increase in EO [DA] after MPH injection when compared with controls. The findings further support the concept that daily MPH therapy restores striatal DA neurotransmission after CCI.
Characterization of Cathodically Deposited Nickel Hexacyanoferrate for Electrochemically Switched Ion Exchange

Thin films of cathodically deposited nickel hexacyanoferrate are investigated as electrochemically switched ion-exchange (ESIX) materials for the selective separation of alkali cations in aqueous nitrate solutions at room temperature. Potential cycling in the range −100 to 900 mV vs SCE is used to reversibly load and elute alkali cations. Electrochemical cyclic voltammetry is combined with thin-film energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy to nondestructively determine element-specific cation loading in the ion-exchange matrix. Selectivity parameters are reported for the alkali cation pair Cs+/Na+.Separation factors and distribution coefficients for Cs+ in the presence of excess Na+ are determined over the range [Na+]/[Cs+] = 101 − 106 The distribution coefficient for cathodically deposited nickel hexacyanoferrate is greater than 2 × 105 mL/g for [Cs+] = 10minus;6 M and [Na+] ≈ 1 M, which is comparable in magnitude to the bulk metal hexacyanoferrates used in conventional ion exchange. A comparison between cat...
Milestones in Adult Theological Education

A personal reflection on changes and developments experienced during twenty-five years in adult Christian education, highlighting some of the dominant trends and debates through different decades.Many of us are used to inviting participants in adult learning to reflect on ‘milestones’ in their journey. When I was invited to lead a morning on adult education for new Theological College staff, I decided to start with a reflection on milestones in my journey through adult education since the 1970s. Several of those present encouraged me to write up the reflection which highlights the changes and developments I have experienced in the hope that it will stimulate you to reflect on your own journey in adult education. They very much reflect my own context and experience as someone who is white, male, English and coming from an evangelical background.
Unintended Consequences: How the Use of LEED Can Inadvertently Fail to Benefit the Environment

Abstract Unintended consequences invariably accompany regulations and standards. This study examined whether the LEED rating system creates any negative inadvertent environmental effects and, if so, what they are. In effect, can doing something that is not sustainable ever help a project get a higher score? The research tool consisted of semi-structured interviews with construction management personnel responsible for the LEED aspects of projects. The study looked at specific LEED certified projects around the southeastern United States. These interviews gathered project specific information about the company responsible for building, the interviewee's experience and views, and the general project. Most importantly, the interviews collected data on any instances of negative unintended environmental effects. Of the 16 projects considered, two included cases of unintended effects. Both cases resulted from situations in which the project location made the otherwise beneficial LEED requirement inappropriate. ...
Role of endothelin in the induction of cardiac hypertrophy in vitro.

Endothelin (ET-1) is a peptide hormone mediating a wide variety of biological processes and is associated with development of cardiac dysfunction. Generally, ET-1 is regarded as a molecular marker released only in correlation with the observation of a hypertrophic response or in conjunction with other hypertrophic stress. Although the cardiac hypertrophic effect of ET-1 is demonstrated, inotropic properties of cardiac muscle during chronic ET-1-induced hypertrophy remain largely unclear. Through the use of a novel in vitro multicellular culture system, changes in contractile force and kinetics of rabbit cardiac trabeculae in response to 1 nM ET-1 for 24 hours can be observed. Compared to the initial force at t = 0 hours, ET-1 treated muscles showed a ∼2.5 fold increase in developed force after 24 hours without any effect on time to peak contraction or time to 90% relaxation. ET-1 increased muscle diameter by 12.5±3.2% from the initial size, due to increased cell width compared to non-ET-1 treated muscles. Using specific signaling antagonists, inhibition of NCX, CaMKII, MAPKK, and IP3 could attenuate the effect of ET-1 on increased developed force. However, among these inhibitions only IP3 receptor blocker could not prevent the increase muscle size by ET-1. Interestingly, though calcineurin-NFAT inhibition could not suppress the effect of ET-1 on force development, it did prevent muscle hypertrophy. These findings suggest that ET-1 provokes both inotropic and hypertrophic activations on myocardium in which both activations share the same signaling pathway through MAPK and CaMKII in associated with NCX activity.
The thermophysical properties research center. An effective answer to information needs on thermophysical properties of matter

Abstract The aims, functions and operations of a specialized research center which has proven effective in meeting the needs for thermophysical properties information is discussed. The integrated aspect of this center comprises three interrelated, yet distinct, areas of activity; namely: (1) Scientific Documentation, (2) Critical Tables of Properties, (3) Experimental Research to fill in gaps and to resolve areas of discord. The scope of activity in each of these three areas is discussed, giving particular emphasis to the special procedures used and the philosophy which constitutes the basis of these operations. Specific examples are cited to illustrate the major accomplishments and contributions made during the center's first five years of operation. Finally, the author presents the steps taken for the center's expanded activities as a separate entity at Purdue University.
Strain-Rate Dependence of Strength of the Gulf of Mexico Soft Sediments

Many marine civil engineering applications require knowledge and understanding of the behavior and strength properties of soft cohesive marine sediments under high strain-rate conditions, typically encountered during impact penetration events of sediment probes and other objects as a result of free fall through the water column. To investigate these effects, a series of variable rotational rate vane shear tests was performed on a sample of Gulf of Mexico marine mud, using a precision rheometer and spanning the rotational rate range of 0.25-1000 r/min. A wide range of water contents from 55% to 95% (liquidity index: 1.5-3.3) was examined as a primary influence on the response of a particular saturated silty clay material. Nonlinearities in the behavior of this soil were analyzed, and applicability and precision of various models were examined. A modified rate equation is suggested yielding good correlation with experimental data at all water contents and all rotational rates explored. A testing schedule for a complete material constant derivation procedure is outlined.
Molecular Mechanism of the Photochemical Generation of Gold Nanoparticles in Ethylene Glycol: Support for the Disproportionation Mechanism

It is found that replacement of the chloride ions in tetrachloroauric acid with bulky bromide ions inhibits the formation of gold nanoparticles in the photochemical reduction in ethylene glycol. However, the addition of silver ions to either the bromide or the chloride auric acid solution is found to enhance the rate of gold nanoparticle formation. These results are found to be accounted for by the previously proposed mechanism (Eustis, S.; Hsu, H.-Y.; El-Sayed, M. A. J. Phys. Chem. B 2005, 109, 4811) which involves disproportionation of the chloroauric complexes to generate free gold atoms and chloride ions. The steric effects of the bulky bromide ions inhibit the formation of the Au-Au bond needed in the electron transfer process of the disproportionation reaction. The addition of Ag+ ions results in the formation of insoluble silver halide, which shifts the disproportionation reaction toward the formation of gold atoms and thus the formation of gold nanoparticles.
Value patterns of drug addicts as a function of race and sex.

(1973). Value Patterns of Drug Addicts as a Function of Race and Sex. International Journal of the Addictions: Vol. 8, No. 4, pp. 589-598.
Society for Pediatric Research Presidential Address 2011: improving child health outcomes--from 65 roses to high reliability.

Society for Pediatric Research Presidential Address 2011: improving child health outcomes—from 65 roses to high reliability
Protein simulation data in the relational model

High performance computing is leading to unprecedented volumes of data. Relational databases offer a robust and scalable model for storing and analyzing scientific data. However, these features do not come without a cost--significant design effort is required to build a functional and efficient repository. Modeling protein simulation data in a relational database presents several challenges: The data captured from individual simulations are large, multidimensional, and must integrate with both simulation software and external data sites. Here, we present the dimensional design and relational implementation of a comprehensive data warehouse for storing and analyzing molecular dynamics simulations using SQL Server.
Neonatal Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors: A Case Report

A term neonate was transferred to our neonatal intensive care unit from the Well-Born Nursery due to respiratory distress. On physical examination, two 3- to 4-cm soft subcutaneous masses were detected over the right lower back with petechia on the skin. The infant also had edema in the right inguinal area and pitting edema of the right leg. Neither abdominal x-ray nor ultrasound revealed a tumor. The infant had a rapid demise despite resuscitative care. A tumor was present on autopsy, and microscopic examination of the tumor revealed a spindle cell lesion consistent with a poorly differentiated sarcoma. Stains of the tumor were also performed, and findings were consistent with a diagnosis of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors. Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors are extremely rare tumors, and this may be only the third neonatal case to be reported.
Automated technique for angiographic determination of coronary blood flow and lumen volume.

Rationale and Objectives Visual interpretation of angiographic images has been shown to be inadequate for assessing the severity of intermediate coronary stenoses. An approach for evaluating both the anatomic and functional impact of a stenosis is needed. An automated technique for determining both coronary blood flow and lumen volume based on a first-pass analysis (FPA) of coronary angiograms and a template matching algorithm was evaluated. Materials and Methods Coronary angiograms of a swine animal model were obtained during power injections of contrast material into the left coronary ostium. Background anatomy was subtracted with an automated phase matching program. A template matching algorithm and first-pass analysis were then used to quantify coronary blood flow and lumen volume. Coronary blood flow and lumen volume measurements were validated with a transit-time ultrasound flow probe and a polymer cast of the coronary arteries, respectively. Results In 14 independent comparisons, the mean coronary blood flow measured with FPA showed strong correlation with the mean flow measured with the ultrasound flow probe ( Q FPA = 0.88 Q probe – 1.99; r = 0.977; standard error of estimate = 3.23 mL/minute). The lumen volumes determined with FPA and cast measurements demonstrated excellent correlation and can be related to each other by V FPA = 0.95 V C – 0.01 ( r = 0.997; standard error of estimate = 0.01 mL). Conclusions The proposed automated method for accurate determination of coronary blood flow and lumen volume can supplement visual evaluation of coronary anatomy with quantitative physiologic data. This automated technique potentially offers a clinically feasible method of quantifying coronary blood flow and lumen volume in conjunction with routine cardiac catheterization.
A Longitudinal Study of Game Perceptions from the Perspective of Yin-Yang Theory

With the advent of ubiquitous and convergence era, games have revolutionized with the trend of network and diversification. Game users, additionally, have generalized without limitation of sex, age, and social status. Based on the Yin-Yang theory, this study investigates the change of users' perceptions both negative and positive sides on games with the recent trends of game industry: generalization, diversification, and networking. Longitudinal data that are collected by nationwide interviews in Korea from 2002 to 2005 have been analyzed. The results show that positive perceptions have increased whereas negative perceptions have not changed significantly during the time. Especially males, the 20s, and middle class group show substantive changes in positive perceptions. This result implies that as the game industry develops with the recent trends game perceptions move positively among the game users, and explains that such changes are led by young and RPG/RTS users. Since the Korean game market is in its mature stage with the change of diversification and networking, the results of this study contributes to make predictions on future phenomena in other developing countries
Estimation with communication cost over a finite alphabet - a transport theory approach

Consider a stochastic process, a pre-processor that accepts causal measurements of the process and a state estimator. The pre-processor and the estimator are not co-located and each time the pre-processor can send a symbol to the estimator from a finite alphabet. We seek the pro-processor and the estimator that jointly minimize a cost combining two terms: the expected squared state estimation error and a communication cost, under a constraint for the communication cost. The communication cost comes from the fact that each transmission of a symbol incurs a cost. In this paper we find what is the optimal encoding at the pre-processor side and which is the optimal estimate.
Leukemogenic membrane glycoprotein encoded by Friend spleen focus-forming virus: transport to cell surfaces and shedding are controlled by disulfide-bonded dimerization and by cleavage of a hydrophobic membrane anchor.

Abstract The leukemogenic glycoprotein (gp55) encoded by Friend spleen focus-forming virus is predominantly retained in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER). However, a small proportion (ca. 5%) is processed to form a derivative that occurs on plasma membranes and causes mitosis of infected erythroblasts. We have now found that gp55 folds heterogeneously in the RER to form components with different disulfide bonds and that this difference may determine their processing fates. RER gp55 consists predominantly of monomers with intrachain disulfide bonds. In contrast, the processed molecules are disulfide-bonded dimers. These dimers are extensively modified in transit to cell surfaces by conversion of four N-linked high-mannose oligosaccharides to complex derivatives and by attachment of a sialylated O-linked oligosaccharide. The plasma membrane dimers are then slowly shed into the medium by a mechanism that involves proteolytic cleavage of approximately 25 membrane-anchoring hydrophobic amino acids from the carboxyl termini of the glycoproteins. Consequently, shed molecules have shorter polypeptide chains than cell-associated gp55. We conclude that gp55 folds into different disulfide-bonded components that do not substantially isomerize, and that only one specific dimer is competent for export from the RER. Mitogenic activity of gp55 could be caused by the cell surface dimers, by the shed derivative, or by the carboxyl-terminal hydrophobic anchors that remain in the membranes after the shedding reaction.
Predicting Phonon Properties From Molecular Dynamics Simulations Using the Spectral Energy Density

Using lattice dynamics theory, we derive the spectral energy density and the relation between the spectral energy density and the phonon frequencies and relaxation times. We then calculate the spectral energy density and phonon frequencies and relaxation times for a test system of Lennard-Jones argon using velocities obtained from molecular dynamics simulations. The phonon properties, which can be used to calculate thermal conductivity, are compared to predictions made using (i) anharmonic lattice dynamics calculations and (ii) a technique that performs normal mode analysis on the positions and velocities obtained from molecular dynamics simulations.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Observation of macroscopic quantum effects in high T/sub c/ weak link superconducting rings

Thin-film weak link rings were constructed using high-T/sub c/ YBaCuO superconducting thin films. The thickness of the films was 5000 AA. The weak links were biased with an AC induced current. The resulting electron pair charges on the weak links were monitored by an output voltage. The charge stored on the link (as a function of the input bias voltage) is consistent with that of a macroscopic quantum pendulum. >
A rare case of acute type A aortic dissection in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease. The vascular lesions in SLE usually represent small vessel vasculitis. The number of reports of vascular conditions in patients with SLE has increased possibly due to the availability of better imaging modalities and increased patient survival secondary to the use of immunosuppressive agents. However, only a limited number of cases of aortic dissection have been published in the English literature.
Reversal learning in rats as a function of percentage of reinforcement and degree of learning.

An experiment was performed investigating the effect of percentage reinforcement and degree of overlearning on reversal learning in rats. 168 female albino rats, 75-80 days old, were run in a black-white discrimination task according to a 2 X 4 orthogonal design. Acquisition was under 1 of 2 percentages of reinforcement—100% and 50%. Upon reaching criterion the groups were divided into 4 subgroups receiving 0, 70, 140, 'or 280 trials overlearning. Following overlearning, reversal learning ,was begun. Acquisition level was also controlled. Results showed that following 50% reinforcement, there is an inverse relationship between the number of overlearning trials and ease of reversal learning. Following 100% reinforcement, no effect due to overlearning was found. Reversal was easier following 100% than following 50% reinforcement. It was concluded from the reversal results that at least 2 factors are required to explain the partial reinforcement effect and the overlearning reversal effect.
The impact of college on character development

The authors assess the kinds of college experience that affect students' development of character.
Las comisiones de conciliación en los procesos legislativos de Chile y Colombia

Resumen: En Chile y Colombia las diferencias entre los proyectos aprobados por una y otra camara se dirimen en una comision parlamentaria que tiene el poder y la responsabilidad de disenar una propuesta alternativa. Este articulo demuestra por que los legisladores que participan en estas comisiones tienen una posicion privilegiada desde la que influyen en el contenido de las propuestas de ley. Si actuan de manera estrategica, pueden impulsar sus preferencias incluso cuando se enfrentan a presidentes con fuertes poderes institucionales. Las comisiones de conciliacion juegan un rol decisivo en muchas situaciones de importancia y en la practica sus propuestas son excepcionalmente rechazadas. Palabras clave: proceso legislativo, Colombia, Chile, comisiones de conciliacion, relaciones ejecutivo-legislativas. The Role of Conference Committees in the Legislative Process in Chile and Colombia
Untangling the racialization of disabilities: An intersectionality critique across disability models

This article advances an intersectional perspective in the analysis of racial inequities in special education so that theoretical refinement of this problem will strengthen educational equity research and theory. Racial disproportionality in some disability categories continues to affect a sizable number of students in the United States, with dire long-term consequences for the educational trajectories of these learners. After more than four decades, the problem continues to be debated in research, practice, and policy circles. There is consensus among researchers that the racialization of disability embodies complexities that defy linear explanations. But this debate has overlooked the potential of intersectionality to document complexity and to transcend the individual-structure binary that tends to permeate previous scholarship. Indeed, intersectionality's explicit attention to how the complexity of people's everyday experiences is connected to larger historical processes could offer key insights. I analyze how disproportionality research has addressed the intersections of race and disability (along with other markers of oppression) through a contrapuntal reading of works framed with medical, social, and cultural disability models. I conclude with reflections for future research on racial disparities in special education that is mindful of intersectional complexity.
Improvement of the Appearance of Full-Thickness Skin Grafts With Dermabrasion

• A series of 192 full-thickness skin grafts of the nose, periorbital area, and ear were examined, using age- and site-matched controls, to determine whether the appearance of the graft was improved by performing dermabrasion six to eight months after grafting. Dermabrasion is helpful in specific situations in adjusting the level of the skin graft to the level of the edge of the recipient site. The greatest improvement was obtained from dermabrasion of elevated grafts located on the nose; however, patients having elevated grafts in all locations were more likely to have resolution of the elevation following dermabrasion than the control subjects. Control subjects experienced most of their improvement six months after the operation, but 27% of the elevated grafts continued to improve between six and 18 months. Grafts that were depressed six months after the grafting procedure remained depressed at 18 and 24 months regardless of whether dermabrasion was performed. In the additional time the subjects were followed up, no further improvement was noted beyond that achieved 12 months after dermabrasion. The data presented in this report and the conclusions drawn from these data may allow physicians to more carefully select subjects who will benefit from dermabrasion after skin grafting. ( Arch Dermatol 1987;123:1340-1345)
The Social Influence Model in Counseling and Psychotherapy

Having examined the processes involved in clinical judgment and diagnosis, we are now ready to turn our attention to the process of therapy itself. During the 1960s, several writers began to examine the process of counseling and psychotherapy from social psychological perspectives. Although differing in emphasis, these analyses shared two central assumptions: that therapy and counseling involve interpersonal processes in which the therapist influences the thoughts, feelings, and behavior of the client, and that therapeutic change can be understood only within the context of the interpersonal dynamics of the counseling setting (Frank, 1961; Goldstein, 1966; Goldstein, Heller, & Sechrest, 1966; Strong, 1968). In fact, Strong (1968, p. 101) went so far as to suggest that “psychotherapy can be viewed as a branch of applied social psychology.”
Instrumental variable specifications and assumptions for longitudinal analysis of mental health cost offsets

Instrumental variables (IVs) enable causal estimates in observational studies to be obtained in the presence of unmeasured confounders. In practice, a diverse range of models and IV specifications can be brought to bear on a problem, particularly with longitudinal data where treatment effects can be estimated for various functions of current and past treatment. However, in practice the empirical consequences of different assumptions are seldom examined, despite the fact that IV analyses make strong assumptions that cannot be conclusively tested by the data. In this paper, we consider several longitudinal models and specifications of IVs. Methods are applied to data from a 7-year study of mental health costs of atypical and conventional antipsychotics whose purpose was to evaluate whether the newer and more expensive atypical antipsychotic medications lead to a reduction in overall mental health costs.
The cities prepare for disaster

To arm against invasion by the forces of nature is as important as to arm against invasion by the forces of another people.
Prospective Study of Serologic Tests for Lyme Disease

Background. Tests to determine serum antibody levels-the 2-tier sonicate immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot method or the IgG of the variable major protein-like sequence-expressed (VIsE) sixth invariant region (C6) peptide ELISA method-are the major tests available for support of the diagnosis of Lyme disease. However, these tests have not been assessed prospectively. Methods. We used these tests prospectively to determine serologic responses in 134 patients with various manifestations of Lyme disease, 89 patients with other illnesses (with or without a history of Lyme disease), and 136 healthy subjects from areas of endemicity and areas in which the infection was not endemic. Results. With 2-tier tests and the C6 peptide ELISA, only approximately one-third of 76 patients with erythema migrans had results that were positive for IgM or IgG seroreactivity with Borrelia burgdorferi in acute-phase samples. During convalescence, 3-4 weeks later, almost two-thirds of patients had seroreactivity with the spirochete B. burgdorferi. The frequencies of seroreactivity were significantly greater among patients with spirochetal dissemination than they were among those who lacked evidence of disseminated disease. Of the 44 patients with Lyme disease who had neurologic, heart, or joint involvement, all had positive C6 peptide ELISA results, 42 had IgG responses with 2-tier tests, and 2 patients with facial palsy had only IgM responses. However, among the control groups, the IgG Western blot was slightly more specific than the C6 peptide ELISA. The differences between the 2 test systems (2-tier testing and C6 peptide ELISA) with respect to sensitivity and specificity were not statistically significant. Conclusions. Except in patients with erythema migrans, both test systems were sensitive for support of the diagnosis of Lyme disease. However, with current methods, 2-tier testing was associated with slightly better specificity.
Onboard Energy Management

The increasingly aggressive performance targets for new aircraft designs that drive fuel efficiency, emissions, noise, cost, and operability requirements necessitate a renewed focus on optimal onboard energy management for the aircraft systems and subsystems. Optimal energy management, which has traditionally been considered local to each aircraft subsystem, is now being expanded to include interactions among multiple subsystems to better optimize overall aircraft performance. The progressive trend toward the use of novel electric subsystems both opens up attractive opportunities for such a synergistic consideration of vehicle-level energy optimality, and at the same time poses significant challenges of a technical and organizational nature. This chapter provides a broad overview of energy sources, types, and consumers for both conventional and novel subsystem architectures, identifying existing suboptimalities in energy utilization as well as opportunities and considerations for more effective total energy management. The technical and organizational challenges related to vehicle-level treatment of energy optimality and management that modern aircraft designers face are presented and discussed. Several energy management strategies for thermal and electric systems are described and evaluated. Keywords: subsystem architectures; More Electric Initiative; Non-propulsive power; All Electric Aircraft; More Electric Aircraft
Counter-regulatory paracrine actions of FGF-23 and 1,25(OH)2D in macrophages

Mechanisms underlying the association between fibroblastic growth factor 23 (FGF-23) and inflammation are uncertain. We found that FGF-23 was markedly up-regulated in LPS/INF-γ-induced proinflammatory M1 macrophages and Hyp mouse-derived peritoneal macrophages, but not in IL-4-induced M2 anti-inflammatory macrophages. NF-КB and JAK/STAT1 pathways mediated the increased transcription of FGF-23 in response to M1 polarization. FGF-23 stimulated TNF-α, but not IL-6, expression in M0 macrophages and suppressed Arginase-1 expression in M2 macrophages through FGFR-mediated mechanisms. 1,25(OH)2 D stimulated Arginase-1 expression and inhibited FGF-23 stimulation of TNF-α. FGF-23 has proinflammatory paracrine functions and counter-regulatory actions to 1,25(OH)2 D on innate immune responses.
A note on the form of the psychophysical function near threshold

In many psychophysical scaling studies, a threshold parameter has been introduced into the power function to account for discrepancies from the simple power function at low intensities. Two such modifications have received special attention: the ϕ form, which involves translation on the intensity continuum; and the ψ form, which involves translation on the psychological continuum. Marks and Stevens (1968) reviewed various proposed modifications of the power function and discussed methodological problems involved in discriminating between various forms by means of empirical tests. This brief paper is a reply to some of the methodological points made by Marks and Stevens and concludes that the evidence favoring a choice of the ψ form over the ϕ form is more convincing than admitted by Marks and Stevens.
Red cell antibodies and the new immunology

The rapid advances of the new immunology are beginning to he applied to the classic problems of immunohematology. Red cell alloimmunization is an important problem in transfusion and pregnancy, and several recent lines of evidence suggest links between red cell antibodies and autoimmunity. Pathogenic red cell autoantibodies are being studied for their fine specificity and structure. Modulation of red cell antibody responses may become feasible by using immunosuppression, anti-idiotypic antibodies, or interleukin blockage. Various clinical cofactors may affect the likelihood of immune hemolysis. Finally, new antibody technologies are being developed that may prove useful in blood banking.
Quantitative determination of trace ricinine in edible vegetable oil by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultraviolet and tandem mass spectrometry

Objective:To establish a quantitative method for the determination of trace ricinine in edible vegetable oil by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultraviolet and tandem mass spectrometry(HPLC-UV-MS/MS).Methods:After the sample was extracted by ethanol,dissolved by hot water,defatted by n-hexane,cleaned and enriched by Waters OasisHLB solid-phase extraction(SPE) cartridge,it was separated on an Extend C18 column(250 mm×4.6 mm i.d.,5 μm)by using the mobile phase consisting of H2O+CH3OH(65+35,v/v).Detection was carried out by HPLC-UV and HPLC-MS/MS using the wavelength of ultraviolet detector at 219 nm and a positive electrospray ionization interface in the multiple reaction monitoring(MRM) mode with the transition for quantitative analysis of m/z 165→138.Results:For the ultraviolet method,calibration curve was linear within the range of 50.0~10000.0 μg/kg,the limit of quantification was 50.0 μg/kg,the extraction recovery was 92.7%~97.8%,and the inter-day RSDs were less than 5.4%.For the MS/MS method,calibration curve was linear within the range of 0.5~50.0 μg/kg,the limit of quantification was 0.5 μg/kg,the extraction recovery was 90.0%~96.5%,and the inter-day RSDs were less than 10.5%.Conclusion:This method is simple,sensitive,accurate and of good specificity for the satisfactory quantitative determination of trace ricinine residue in edible vegetable oil.
Near-infrared light triggered release of molecules from supramolecular hydrogel-nanorod composites

Aim: To develop a stimulus-responsive material platform capable of releasing entrapped molecules in response to near infrared (NIR) light. Materials & methods: Gold nanorods were mixed with hyaluronic acid derivatives modified with β-cyclodextrin or adamantane to create a NIR-responsive hydrogel-nanorod composite. Microfluidics were used to create responsive microgels and NIR-triggered release was evaluated. Results & discussion: The hydrogel-nanorod composite material exhibited a rapid response to NIR-irradiation, allowing enhanced release of encapsulated payloads with material heating and network disruption. The release was dependent on the entrapped molecule size, the NIR exposure time and the light intensity. Conclusion: NIR irradiation of hydrogel-nanorods leads to plasmonic heating and triggered release of encapsulated molecules, a system that has potential for light-triggered release of therapeutics.
Factors Affecting the lmmunization Coverage Rate of Hepatitis B Vaccine in Children in Datong City

In order to set down a valid immune measure and strategy and raise further the immunization coverage rate of hepatitis B vaccine, we investigated the inoculation rate of HB vaccine and its affecting factors by using stratified multistage random cluster sampling method. 2?311 children born on July 1, 2000～June 30, 2001 and together with their mothers were chosen from l1 counties (district) of Datong city. The survey showed that in children, the whole course vaccination rate was 71.83%, the rates of timely vaccination both for first dose and whole course of HB vaccine were 18.22% and 15.84% respectively. Of the above three rates, the children born in hospitas were higher than that at home, the first babies were higher than that of the second or the latter babies, the children whose mothers have good knowledge about HB were higher than that with less knowledge, children with registered permanent residence were higher than that without registered permanent residence, the difference in each case was remarkable. Then we can draw a conclusion: children born in hospital is beneficial to HB vaccination, the parent's knowledge about HB vaccination directly affects the vaccine coverage rate, HB vaccination to over birth children and floating children is the important work hereafter.
Stability Analysis of Duplicated Ports Switch Architecture

In this paper,the stability result of DPS with slower memory rate than line rate is established by using fluid model techniques.Provided that the duplicate number of DPS is d and individual memory rate is not less than 2/d line rate,DPS with maximal matching scheduler can achieve stability under almost all kinds of traffics.And simulation results show that the delay performance of DPS with simple maximal matching scheduler is almost as good as OQ(Output-Queueing) switches.
Effects of integrated cockroach control in supermarkets

Objective To evaluate the effects of integrated cockroach control in supermarket.Methods Three supermarkets,two as experimental sites and one as control,were selected for test.Integrated control measures,which comprised environmental improvement assisted by chemical control,were taken in the experimental sites.The control effects were evaluated with relative density decrease rate as the indicator.Results All the cockroaches captured in the supermarkets were Blattella germanica.Cockroaches were mainly distributed in the fresh food section,cooked food section,storehouse,bakery,food section,vegetable and fruit section,etc.,while the cockroach density in the grocery section was relatively low.The cockroach densities in the two experimental sites decreased by 89.96% and 81.38% three days after integrated control measures,by 93.89% and 90.21% three weeks after the measures,and by 95.05% and 89.27% two months after the measures.Conclusion Cockroaches invade the supermarkets seriously,with B.germanica as the dominant species.Integrated control measures can be used to quickly and effectively decrease the cockroach density in supermarket,and the control effects were durable.
Increasing palmitic acid intake enhances milk production and prevents glucose-stimulated fatty acid disappearance without modifying systemic glucose tolerance in mid-lactation dairy cows.

Abstract Feeding saturated fatty acids may enhance milk yield in part by decreasing insulin sensitivity and shifting glucose utilization toward the mammary gland. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of palmitic acid (C16:0) on milk production and insulin sensitivity in cows. Twenty multiparous mid-lactation Holstein cows were enrolled in a study consisting of a 5-d covariate, 49-d treatment, and 14-d posttreatment period. All cows received a common sorghum silage-based diet and were randomly assigned to a diet containing no supplemental fat (control; n=10; 138±45d in milk) or C16:0 at 4% of ration DM (PALM; 98% C16:0; n=10; 136±44d in milk). Blood and milk were collected at routine intervals. Intravenous glucose tolerance tests (300mg/kg of body weight) were performed at d −1, 24, and 49 relative to start of treatment. Data were analyzed as repeated measures using a mixed model with fixed effects of treatment and time, and milk yield served as a covariate. The PALM treatment increased milk yield by wk 7. Furthermore, PALM increased milk fat yield and energy-corrected milk at wk 3 and 7. Changes in milk production occurred in parallel with enhanced energy intake. Increased milk fat yield during PALM treatment was due to increased C16:0 and C16:1 incorporation; PALM had no effect on concentration of milk components, BW, or body condition score. Two weeks posttreatment, energy-corrected milk and milk fat yield remained elevated in PALM-fed cows whereas yields of milk were similar between treatments. Increased milk fat yield after PALM treatment was due to increased de novo lipogenesis and uptake of preformed fatty acids. The basal concentration of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) in plasma increased by d 4, 6, and 8 of PALM treatment, a response not observed thereafter. Although PALM supplementation did not modify insulin, glucose, or triacylglycerol levels in plasma, total cholesterol in plasma was elevated by wk 3. Estimated insulin sensitivity was lower during the first week of PALM treatment; however, glucose disposal following glucose tolerance tests was not modified. In contrast, C16:0 feeding reduced glucose-stimulated NEFA disappearance by wk 7. Results demonstrate that increasing dietary energy from C16:0 for 7wk improves milk yield and milk composition without modifying systemic glucose tolerance. Reduced glucose-stimulated NEFA disappearance with C16:0 feeding and elevated circulating NEFA may reflect changes in adipose tissue insulin sensitivity.
Progenitor‐derivative species pairs and plant speciation

In addition to the classic allopatric model of speciation in which two lineages diverge through time, a population may "bud off" from an ancestral population and become adapted to a different habitat. The ancestral population (the progenitor or p species) remains largely unchanged in its original habitat while the population that budded off acquires novel characters and becomes the derivative (d) species. P-d species pairs are appropriate systems for studying plant speciation because they represent recent divergence, making it more feasible to identify the few differences between the taxa and to infer possible early-evolving barriers to gene flow. The evidence that has been used to designate species as p-d pairs is reviewed and evaluated. P-d species pairs are compared for several characters, with ecogeographic factors the only consistent difference between species pairs. Three genera in which p-d species pairs have been studied in some depth are used to illustrate both the advantages and challenges of studying the process of speciation. It is suggested that there are some advantages in focusing future studies on even earlier stages of divergence, in which speciation is not yet complete, and p and d populations can be identified. Efforts should focus on ever more refined genetic analyses of differences between populations, especially factors reducing effective gene flow between them.