cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Volcano spacing and plate rigidity

In-plane stresses, which accompany the flexural deformation of the lithosphere under the load adjacent volcanoes, may govern the spacing of volcanoes in hotspot provinces. Specifically, compressive stresses in the vicinity of a volcano prevent new upwelling in this area, forcing a new volcano to develop at a minimum distance that is equal to the distance in which the radial stresses change from compressional to tensile (the inflection point). If a volcano is modeled as a point load on a thin elastic plate, then the distance to the inflection point is proportional to the thickness of the plate to the power of 3/4. Compilation of volcano spacing in seven volcanic groups in East Africa and seven volcanic groups of oceanic hotspots shows significant correlation with the elastic thickness of the plate and matches the calculated distance to the inflection point. In contrast, volcano spacing in island arcs and over subduction zones is fairly uniform and is much larger than predicted by the distance to the inflection point, reflecting differences in the geometry of the source and the upwelling areas.
The effects of ascorbic acid and sodium azide on seedling growth of irradiated and non-irradiated barley seeds*

Experiments were designed to test the influence of a radio-protective agent (ascorbic acid) and an agent which enhances radiation damage (sodium azide) on γ-radiation induced seedling growth reduction in barley seeds. It was found that ascorbic acid protects against radiation-induced damage when given as a pre-irradiation treatment but not as a post-irradiation treatment. Sodium azide alone causes seedling injury and appears to enhance the effects of γ-radiation. Post-irradiation ascorbic acid-treatment given prior to sodium azide had no effect but soaking after sodium azide in either water or ascorbic acid decreased damage. This latter effect may be important in altering mutagenic effectiveness, efficiency and/or spectrum of mutations induced by sodium azide.
The NBC Music Appreciation Hour: Radio Broadcasts of Walter Damrosch, 1928–1942:

Walter Damrosch, a pioneer in the early days of radio, introduced American and Canadian children to classical music through the radio broadcasts of the NBC Music Appreciation Hour, 1928–1942. This ...
Corticosteroid dynamics in the nonpregnant, pregnant, and postpartum spontaneously hypertensive rat.

Abstract Factors responsible for hypertension in the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) remain under investigation. As in human pregnancy complicated by essential chronic hypertension, the hypertension of the pregnant SHR subsides and returns postpartum. Because corticosteroid excess can cause hypertension, we examined several aspects of adrenocortical activity as potentially affecting the reported blood pressure profiles of nonpregnant, term pregnant, and postpartum SHR, using normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats as controls. We found that corticosterone levels were comparable in nonpregnant SHR and WKY rats, and unaffected by pregnancy. No differences were detected postpartum. Although pregnancy was accompanied by significant increases in plasma aldosterone levels, no interbreed differences were observed, which remained the case postpartum. Single adrenal cell secretion of aldosterone and corticosterone, as detected by reverse hemolytic plaque assay, yielded similar results in the pregnant and postpartum rat. Hormone responses to dietary manipulations in the nonpregnant and pregnant SHR and WKY suggest an important role for ACTH, and a lesser one for AII in the regulation of corticosteroids. In situ hybridization histochemistry, using a probe that detects both P450c11β and P450c11AS mRNA, revealed comparable message density and zonal distribution in adrenals from pregnant and nonpregnant SHR and WKY rats. Breed- and pregnancy-dependent differences in adrenal expression of P450scc, P450c11β, and P450c11AS were noted. In summary, our findings suggest that although some discrepancies exist in the aspects of adrenocortical activity examined, they are unlikely to be etiologic in the blood pressure profile observed in nonpregnant, pregnant, and postpartum SHR.
Direct observation of multiple oxygen sites in oxide glasses: recent advances from triple-quantum magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance

Triple-quantum, magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (3QMAS NMR) on 17O has demonstrated remarkable improvements in resolution among signals from different oxide species in glasses. As many as four separate types of oxygen anion environments can be observed simultaneously in some compositions; Si–O–Si, Al–O–Al, B–O–B, Si–O–Al, Si–O–B, and Al–O–B bridging oxygens can be distinguished and at least roughly quantified; non-bridging oxygens bonded to Si vs. B can in some cases be separated, and there are hints of oxygen tricluster species. These types of data are already providing important new constraints and tests of models of glass structure and properties.
Broadcasting With Side Information: Bounding and Approximating the Broadcast Rate

Index coding has received considerable attention recently motivated in part by applications such as fast video-on-demand and efficient communication in wireless networks and in part by its connection to network coding. Optimal encoding schemes and efficient heuristics were studied in various settings, while also leading to new results for network coding such as improved gaps between linear and non-linear capacity as well as hardness of approximation. The problem of broadcasting with side information, a generalization of the index coding problem, begins with a sender and sets of users and messages. Each user possesses a subset of the messages and desires an additional message from the set. The sender wishes to broadcast a message so that on receipt of the broadcast each user can compute her desired message. The fundamental parameter of interest is the broadcast rate, β, the average communication cost for sufficiently long broadcasts. Though there have been many new nontrivial bounds on β by Bar-Yossef (2006), Lubetzky and Stav (2007), Alon (2008), and Blasiak (2011) there was no known polynomial-time algorithm for approximating β within a nontrivial factor, and the exact value of β remained unknown for all nontrivial instances. Using the information theoretic linear program introduced in Blasiak (2011), we give a polynomial-time algorithm for recognizing instances with β = 2 and pinpoint β precisely for various classes of graphs (e.g., various Cayley graphs of cyclic groups). Further, extending ideas from Ramsey theory, we give a polynomial-time algorithm with a nontrivial approximation ratio for computing β. Finally, we provide insight into the quality of previous bounds by giving constructions showing separations between β and the respective bounds. In particular, we construct graphs where β is uniformly bounded while its upper bound derived from the naive encoding scheme is polynomially worse.
Muralism and the People: Culture, Popular Citizenship, and Government in Post-Revolutionary Mexico

This paper examines the history of Mexican muralism within the governmental development of a national cultural infrastructure after the Revolution of 1910. Treating mural art as a technical apparatus of popular communication, the paper argues for a more complex understanding of cultural communication through analysis of the institutional apparatuses of heritage as discursive sites of popular citizenship. In addition, this paper theorizes and historicizes Mexican state formation through the insights of Michel Foucault's essay on \ldblquote Governmentality\rdblquote for the purpose of providing a more nuanced theory of the relationship between culture, power, and the people
Pathogenesis of Pulmonary Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis: Lessons from Interstitial Lung Disease

Interstitial lung disease is a frequent complication of systemic sclerosis and currently is the leading cause of death. Our ability to predict which individuals are at greatest risk of developing clinically significant, progressive interstitial lung disease remains inadequate. Identification of circulating autoantibodies and other biomarkers, as well as genetic polymorphisms and aberrant gene expression, all hold promise as diagnostic and prognostic tools, as well as therapeutic targets. Many practice patterns for the diagnosis and monitoring of connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease are based upon published experience with idiopathic interstitial lung diseases. Although there are likely commonalities in the pathophysiologic mechanisms and clinical progression among all fibrosing lung diseases, a better understanding of features unique to systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease is essential to the development of more effective monitoring and treatment strategies.
Compost Amended Soil Treatment for Mitigating Highway Shoulder Desiccation Cracks

Certain types of compost materials have fibrous characteristics that exhibit moisture affinity suggesting that they could be used to stabilize expansive soils to control desiccation cracks. In order to understand shrinkage cracking control mechanisms of compost amended soils, a field study was designed with two compost types, dairy manure compost (DMC) and biosolids compost (BSC). Composts were mixed with topsoil at different proportions to form four types of compost manufactured topsoils (CMTs). Seventeen CMT test plots of different treatment widths and thicknesses including a control plot with no CMT cover material were constructed at Stephenville, Tex. and these sections were heavily instrumented with moisture and temperature sensors. Data from sensors, digital image based surface cracking studies, visual observations of shoulder cracking, and surficial erosion surveys of all test sections were collected and statistically analyzed and these results indicated that the BSC amendments provided the best subsoil enhancements by controlling moisture and temperature fluctuations from the high temperature environment, thereby reducing shrinkage cracks in subsoils and in the adjacent paved highway shoulders. The DMCs were less effective in mitigating shrinkage cracking due to low amounts of fibrous or organic matter. Both design and construction specifications for CMTs were also developed. This application will enhance recycling efforts by converting wastes into usable compost, mitigate future pavement cracking, and lessen premature maintenance costs.
Comparison of chemical composition and antioxidant capacity of commercially available blueberry and blackberry wines in Illinois.

Abstract: Moderate wine consumption may reduce the incidence of certain age-related chronic diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, metabolic disease, and neurodegenerative disease. Blueberry and blackberry wines commercially available in Illinois were evaluated for chemical and quality components relevant to consumers in order to study their potential health benefits. Total polyphenolic content was measured by the Folin–Ciocalteu method, total anthocyanin content by the pH differential test, and in vitro antioxidant capacity (AC) by the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method. Color was measured using Hunter colorimetry and quality parameters including pH, °Brix, acid content, glucose–fructose, and percent alcohol were measured using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Blackberry wines (n= 6) had an average total polyphenolic content of 2212.5 ± 1090.3 mg ellagic acid equivalents (EAE) per liter, total anthocyanin content of 75.56 ± 70.44 mg/L, and AC of 26.39 ± 17.95 mmol trolox equivalents (TEs) per liter. Blueberry wines (n= 4) had an average total polyphenolic content of 1623.3 ± 645.5 mg EAE per liter, total anthocyanin content of 20.82 ± 12.14 mg/L, and AC of 21.21 ± 7.71 mmol TE per liter. Strong positive correlations were found between °Brix and glucose–fructose concentration (r= 0.90), total acid and malic acid (r= 0.90), and between total polyphenols and AC (r= 0.88). The results suggest that fruit wines made from blueberries and blackberries may have potential health applications and therefore could contribute to the economy of the wine industry. Practical Application: The majority of wines are produced from grapes, but wine can also be produced from other fruits including blueberries and blackberries, which contain phenolic compounds that may contribute to human health. A comparative evaluation was conducted on commercial nongrape fruit wines and parameters related to their health benefits. Fruit wines made from blueberries and blackberries may have potential health applications and therefore could contribute to the economy of the wine industry.
Citizen oversight, procedural justice, and officer perceptions of the complaint investigation process

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine data from a survey of police officers in a Western US city, showing the factors that shape police officers' satisfaction with their city's system for investigating and resolving citizen complaints alleging officer misconduct. Specifically, it tests whether perceptions of legitimate authority and procedural justice influence overall satisfaction, and how these two theoretical perspectives fare relative to a distributive justice perspective.Design/methodology/approach – This paper uses anonymous mailed surveys to examine the attitudes of a sample of 373 police officer respondents from one large urban police department.Findings – The findings support the importance of both procedural justice and perceived legitimacy by finding that both perspectives shape officers' satisfaction more than the actual outcomes reached on their cases. Attitudes toward oversight were not found to be related to satisfaction with the complaint process.Research limitations/implicatio...
The Pigskin Professor: Video Presentations of Engineering Fundamentals

This paper describes collaboration between the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Digital Worlds Institute at the University of Florida to develop a series of videos describing fundamental engineering concepts in the language of football. These videos, which were shown during the six home football games for the 2003 season, reached a diverse audience of over 84,000 fans at each game and provided a unique opportunity to discuss engineering in a high-profile forum. The objective was to stimulate excitement and interest in engineering education.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Mathematical Models in the Planning Process: Proposal for a New Role

Mathematical models have not been adequately integrated in planning. Some new roles are suggested where models can contribute to coordination and assurance in a complex multiparty, multiagent planning process. Examples from fishery resource management are presented.
Acute and chronic dose–response effect of methylphenidate on ventral tegmental area neurons correlated with animal behavior

Methylphenidate (MPD) is used to treat ADHD and as a cognitive enhancement and recreationally. MPD's effects are not fully understood. One of the sites of psychostimulant action is the ventral tegmental area (VTA). The VTA neuronal activity was recorded from freely behaving rats using a wireless system. 51 animals were divided into groups: saline, 0.6, 2.5, and 10.0 mg/kg MPD. The same repetitive MPD dose can elicit either behavioral sensitization or tolerance; thus the evaluation of the VTA neuronal activity was based on the animals' behavioral response to chronic MPD exposure: animals exhibiting behavioral tolerance or sensitization. Acute MPD elicits dose-related increases in behavioral activity. About half of the animals exhibited behavioral sensitization or tolerance to each of the MPD doses. 361 units were recorded from the VTA and exhibited similar spike shape on experimental day 1 (ED1) and on ED10. 71, 84, and 79 % of VTA units responded to acute 0.6, 2.5, and 10.0 mg/kg MPD, respectively. The neuronal baseline activity at ED10 was significantly modified in 94, 95, and 100 % of VTA units following 0.6, 2.5 and 10.0 mg/kg MPD, respectively. Following chronic MPD exposure, 91, 98, and 100 % exhibit either electrophysiological tolerance or sensitization of 0.6, 2.6, or 10.0 mg/kg MPD, respectively. In conclusion, the chronic administration of the same dose of MPD caused some animals to exhibit behavioral sensitization and other animals to exhibit tolerance. The VTA units recorded from animals exhibiting behavioral sensitization responded significantly differently to MPD from animals that exhibited behavioral tolerance.
Local fiscal impacts of large-scale projects: Use of impact models as planning and policy analysis tools

Abstract Rapid economic and population fluctuations, which often accompany large-scale industrial and resource development projects located in rural areas, may lead to serious fiscal problems for local jurisdictions. These problems typically arise from the unequal distribution of project-related costs and revenues, both over time and among jurisdictions. Growing awareness of these problems has stimulated a variety of responses at both state and local levels. Several states have enacted special taxes on large energy and mineral development projects, with part of the proceeds being distributed to affected local governments. Local officials, meanwhile, have become increasingly active in negotiating a variety of compensation agreements with the development entities. Such impact agreements have included grants, loans, loan guarantees, or a combination of these measures. With the increasing interest in fiscal impacts and their mitigation, a number of fiscal impact simulation models have been developed. This paper describes the use of one such model as a tool for the development of state taxation policies, as a guide for distribution of impact assistance funds, as a source of information for local governments in development and public service planning, and for the siting of large-scale projects. In addition, generalizations about the policy use of such models are presented and discussed in relation to the likely needs of policymakers.
A 28-day oral toxicity evaluation of small interfering RNAs and a long double-stranded RNA targeting vacuolar ATPase in mice.

Abstract New biotechnology-derived crop traits have been developed utilizing the natural process of RNA interference (RNAi). However, plant-produced double stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) are not known to present a hazard to mammals because numerous biological barriers limit uptake and potential for activity. To evaluate this experimentally, dsRNA sequences matching the mouse vATPase gene (an established target for control of corn rootworms) were evaluated in a 28-day toxicity study with mice. Test groups were orally gavaged with escalating doses of either a pool of four 21-mer vATPase small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or a 218-base pair vATPase dsRNA. There were no treatment-related effects on body weight, food consumption, clinical observations, clinical chemistry, hematology, gross pathology, or histopathology endpoints. The highest dose levels tested were considered to be the no observed adverse effect levels (NOAELs) for the 21-mer siRNAs (48 mg/kg/day) and the 218 bp dsRNA (64 mg/kg/day). As an additional exploratory endpoint, vATPase gene expression, was evaluated in selected gastrointestinal tract and systemic tissues. The results of this assay did not indicate treatment-related suppression of vATPase . The results of this study indicate that orally ingested dsRNAs, even those targeting a gene in the test species, do not produce adverse health effects in mammals.
When Do Group Incentives for Salespeople Work

When should sales managers employ group incentives rather than individual incentives to motivate their sales force? Using economic experiments, the authors show that two-person group incentives can outperform individual incentives and that the relative efficacy of group incentives depends on three important factors. First, the strength of social ties among the group members matters. Effort decisions in group-based incentives increase significantly when members socialize briefly before committing effort. Second, the design of the group incentive matters. For the group incentive to work better than the individual incentive, the group-based component (i.e., how much the payment scheme weights the contribution of others) in the former cannot be too large. Third, the informational feedback that group members receive matters. When socialized group members can observe one another's true effort, rather than only their output, effort surprisingly decreases. The authors show that a model that accounts for social pr...
Approximation algorithms for bipartite matching with metric and geometric costs

Let G = G(A∪B,A×B), with |A| = |B| = n, be a weighted bipartite graph, and let d(·,·) be the cost function on the edges. Let w(M) denote the weight of a matching in G, and M* a minimum-cost perfect matching in G. We call a perfect matching M c-approximate, for c ≥ 1, if w(M) ≤ c · w(M*). We present three approximation algorithms for computing minimum-cost perfect matchings in G. First, we consider the case when d(·,·) is a metric. For any δ > 0, we present an algorithm that, in O(n2+δ log n log2(1/δ)) time, computes a O(1/δα)-approximate matching of G, where α = log3 2 ≈ 0.631. Next, we assume the existence of a dynamic data structure for answering approximate nearest neighbor (ANN) queries under d(··). Given two parameters e, d e) is the query and update time of an (e/2)-ANN data structure. Finally, we present an algorithm that works even if d(·,·) is not a metric but admits an ANN data structure for d(·,·). In particular, we present an algorithm that computes, in O(e---1n3/2τ (n, e) log4(n/e) log Δ) time, a (1 + e)-approximate matching of A and B; here Δ is the ratio of the largest to the smallest-cost edge in G, and τ (n, e) is the query and update time of an (e/c)-ANN data structure for some constant c > 1. We show that our results lead to faster matching algorithms for many geometric settings.
Effects of intraruminal and intra-abomasal additions of cod-liver oil on milk fat production in the cow.

Abstract Four Holstein cows were used in a modified switchback design to show the effect on milk-fat synthesis of (1) control diet, (2) control diet plus 225 g/day of cod-liver oil in rumen, and (3) control diet plus 225 g/day of cod-liver oil in abomasum. Mean milk yield (kg/day), fat production (kg/day), and milk-fat percentage were (1) 21.87, .79, 3.63; (2) 22.99, .70, 3.05; and (3) 23.02, .75, 3.28. Compared to the post-treatment control period, only one cow decreased in milk-fat percentage on 3 while all cows decreased in milk-fat percentage on 2. Proportions of carbons 16:0, 16:1, 18:0, 18:1, 18:2, and trans -monoene fatty acids of the milk fat were (1) 30.31, 3.24, 10.15, 30.48, 2.59, 7.91; (2) 29.23, 3.92, 6.48, 30.65, 3.44, 26.37; and (3) 26.30, 3.72, 10.56, 30.10, 2.96, 9.84. Proportions of rumen volatile fatty acids were not significantly affected by treatment. Proportions of carbons 16:0, 18:0, 18:1, 18:2, and 18:3 fatty acids in the rumen ingesta were (1) 17.28, 47.92, 21.71, 10.59, 2.46; (2) 19.55, 25.90, 37.21, 11.97, 5.39; and (3) 16.90, 50.80, 19.66, 9.11, and 3.23. Fatty acid composition of blood-serum phospholipids were affected by treatment.
Criminalizing communities of poor, dark women in the Caribbean: The fight against crime through Puerto Rico's public housing

In the year 1993, Mano Dura Contra el Crimen [Hard Hand against Crime] was implemented in Puerto Rico with the purposes of fighting crime in the island. Exclusively targeting public housing projects, this policy included a range of environmental interventions. This article questions the policy's targeting mechanism by analyzing whether public housing communities in Puerto Rico were indeed presenting higher criminal activity than other sectors of the island. This article then examines the race, class and gender profile of the public housing communities and examines how the Mano Dura policies served to solidify a profile of public housing communities that was not consistent with the real demographic profile of these communities. This article argues that the policies led to the increased stigmatization and isolation of public housing communities.
Global strategy and population‐level learning: the case of hard disk drives

Some scholars argue that firms within the same industry engage in similar foreign investment behavior irrespective of nationality because they face a common set of pressures and incentives. Others emphasize the persistent diversity in business practices and behavior of firms from different nations as they invest abroad. Using the hard disk drive industry as a case, this paper explores whether nationality or industry has the greater influence on global strategy and whether it affects industry performance. The findings suggest that firms from the same nation are likely to adopt similar global strategies initially, but that, over time, the industry as a whole converges on the same blueprint for action. At the same time, however, strategic focus and organizational characteristics moderate national influences: firms from the same nation are more likely to adopt the same global strategy if they compete in the same product segment and are of similar size and age. The evidence also indicates that the national industry that is first to select what becomes the dominant strategy acquires an advantage over competitors from other countries.
The role of microstructure in the electrical properties of GaAs grown at low temperature

We have examined the role of As precipitates on transport through undoped GaAs grown at low temperature by molecular beam epitaxy and annealed at high temperature. Temperature dependent I–V measurements exhibit two regimes. At temperatures less than ∼200K, transport attributed to point defect-associated hopping conduction is observed even for samples annealed at 750°C. For temperatures greater than ∼200K, the transport is quantitatively consistent with calculations of thermally assisted tunneling emission of electrons from metallic As precipitates acting as buried Schottky barriers.
Endogenous choice of trade policy instruments

Abstract Recently developed theories of endogenous trade policy formation have attempted to explain tariffs as the result of economic interest-seeking by individuals or groups. This note demonstrates that tariffs will not emerge as a policy choice if income is redistributed solely through trade policy-induced factor price changes. A production tax cum subsidy will be adopted as both gainers and losers are better off than with a tariff.
More Transparent Neural Network Approach for Modeling Nonlinear Hysteretic Systems

A powerful Volterra/Wiener Neural Network (VWNN) is designed to reflect the underlying dynamics of hysteretic systems. The nonlinear response of multi-degree-of-freedom systems subjected to force excitation can be tracked using this neural network. More importantly, the inner-workings of the network, such as the design parameters as well as the weights and biases, can be loosely related to physical properties of dynamic systems. This effort differs markedly from what is typically done for neural networks as well as the original version of the VWNN in Ref. 1. An adaptive training algorithm and improved formulation of high-order nodes are adopted to enable fast training and stable convergence. A training example is provided to demonstrate that the VWNN is able to yield a unique set of solutions (i.e., the weights) when the values of the controlling design parameters are fixed a priori. The selection of these design parameters in practical applications is discussed. The advantages of the VWNN illustrate the potential of applying highly flexible nonparametric identification techniques in a parametric fashion to suit the needs of structural health monitoring and damage detections.
Inventories and scenarios of nitrous oxide emissions

Effective mitigation for N2O emissions, now the third most important anthropogenic greenhouse gas and the largest remaining anthropogenic source of stratospheric ozone depleting substances, requires understanding of the sources and how they may increase this century. Here we update estimates and their uncertainties for current anthropogenic and natural N2O emissions and for emissions scenarios to 2050. Although major uncertainties remain, ‘bottom-up’ inventories and ‘top-down’ atmospheric modeling yield estimates that are in broad agreement. Global natural N2O emissions are most likely between 10 and 12 Tg N2O-N yr �1 . Net anthropogenic N2O emissions are now about 5.3 Tg N2O-N yr �1 . Gross anthropogenic emissions by sector are 66% from agriculture, 15% from energy and transport sectors, 11% from biomass burning, and 8% from other sources. A decrease in natural emissions from tropical soils due to deforestation reduces gross anthropogenic emissions by about 14%. Business-as-usual emission scenarios project almost a doubling of anthropogenic N2O emissions by 2050. In contrast, concerted mitigation scenarios project an average decline of 22% relative to 2005, which would lead to a near stabilization of atmospheric concentration of N2O at about 350 ppb. The impact of growing demand for biofuels on future projections of N2O emissions is highly uncertain; N2O emissions from second and third generation biofuels could remain trivial or could become the most significant source to date. It will not be possible to completely eliminate anthropogenic N2O emissions from agriculture, but better matching of crop N needs and N supply offers significant opportunities for emission reductions.
Effects of conjugated oestrogens and aminocaproic acid upon exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH)

Aminocaproic acid (ACA) and Premarin® (PRE) are used to treat exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH) at the racetrack based upon their putative coagulation effects. We hypothesized that neither ACA nor PRE would reduce EIPH because the literature does not substantiate coagulation deficits being manifested in EIPH. Six Thoroughbreds were run from 4 m s− 1 until fatigue (1 m s− 1s × 1 min increments; 6° inclined treadmill) after being treated with placebo, PRE (25 mg) or ACA (5 g) at 2-week intervals in a randomized crossover design. Coagulation and exercise-related variables were measured at rest and maximal effort. EIPH and inflammation were quantified via bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) 30–60 min post-exercise. EIPH was not altered by either treatment (3.8 ± 1.7 (placebo), 4.6 ± 3.2 (ACA) and 2.4 ± 1.2 (PRE) × 106 RBC ml− 1 BALF; p = 0.12), nor was coagulation. However, inflammation was decreased (5.9 ± 0.9 (placebo), 4.4 ± 0.9 (ACA) and 4.2 ± 0.4 (PRE) × 105 WBC ml− 1 BALF; both p < 0.05). There was a trend for decreased time-to-fatigue (720 ± 27 (placebo), 709 ± 24 (ACA) and 726 ± 28 (PRE) s; p = 0.09 for placebo vs. ACA) and a reduction in plasma lactate (19.5 ± 3.0 (placebo), 14.7 ± 1.0 (ACA) and 17.6 ± 2.5 (PRE) mmol l− 1; p < 0.05 for placebo vs. ACA) following ACA administration. ACA and PRE were not effective in reducing EIPH, and ACA may be detrimental to performance. However, both may mitigate exercise-induced pulmonary inflammation.
Cognitive mechanisms in number processing and calculation: evidence from dyscalculia

This article presents a framework for the cognitive analysis of number processing and calculation. Within this framework the primary objective is the development of a model that is sufficiently detailed to serve as a basis for explaining the number-processing/calculation performance of both normal and cognitively impaired subjects. First a general model of the cognitive mechanisms for number processing and calculation is outlined. It is shown that patterns of impairments observed in brain-damaged patients support the major assumptions of the model and that the model provides a theoretically motivated framework for interpreting the deficits. A single case is then discussed in some detail, to demonstrate that through detailed analyses of impaired performance the preliminary model can be elaborated to specify not only the general architecture of the number-processing and calculation systems, but also the inner workings of specific components and the consequences of damage to these components. The article concludes with a discussion of several general issues arising from the presented arguments.
New Physics and the Proton Radius Problem

Background: The recent disagreement between the proton charge radius extracted from Lamb shift measurements of muonic and electronic hydrogen invites speculation that new physics may be to blame. Several proposals have been made for new particles that account for both the Lamb shift and the muon anomalous moment discrepancies. Purpose: We explore the possibility that new particles' couplings to the muon can be fine-tuned to account for all experimental constraints. Method: We consider two fine-tuned models, the first involving new particles with scalar and pseudoscalar couplings, and the second involving new particles with vector and axial couplings. The couplings are constrained by the Lamb shift and muon magnetic moments measurements while mass constraints are obtained by kaon decay rate data. Results: For the scalar-pseudoscalar model, masses between 100 to 200 MeV are not allowed. For the vector model, masses below about 200 MeV are not allowed. The strength of the couplings for both models approach that of electrodynamics for particle masses of about 2 GeV. Conclusions: New physics with fine tuned couplings may be entertained as a possible explanation for the Lamb shift discrepancy.
Efficient Synthesis of Enantiomerically Pure β2-Amino Acids via Chiral Isoxazolidinones

We report a practical and scalable synthetic route for the preparation of α-substituted β-amino acids (β2-amino acids). Michael addition of a chiral hydroxylamine, derived from α-methylbenzylamine, to an α-alkylacrylate followed by cyclization gives a diastereomeric mixture of α-substituted isoxazolidinones. These diastereomers are separable by column chromatography. Subsequent hydrogenation of the purified isoxazolidinones followed by Fmoc protection affords enantiomerically pure Fmoc-β2-amino acids, which are useful for β-peptide synthesis. This route provides access to both enantiomers of a protected β2-amino acid.
When money talks.

COMMENTARY ON: Epstein R. Overdose: how excessive government regulation stifles pharmaceutical innovation. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 2006. Stossel TP. Has the hunt for conflicts of interest gone too far? Brit Med J 2008;336:476. Weaver WD. President's page: disclosures, transparency, and firewalls protect integrity. Am Coll Cardiol 2008;52:964–5.
Introduction: Back to the Future—Revisiting Haddon’s Conceptualization of Injury Epidemiology and Prevention

Critiques of contemporary epidemiology have addressed the increasing gap between its scientific foundations and its contribution to the practice of public health (1–12). This debate has also addressed the value of using theory and conceptual models to guide both research and practice (1, 6–9, 11). Although seemingly unrecognized in this recent debate, Dr. William Haddon, Jr., widely considered the father of modern injury epidemiology, raised very similar issues some 35–40 years ago as he argued for both a more scientifically driven approach to injury control and also developed two complementary conceptual frameworks to guide epidemiologic research and prevention practice (13–18). This paper examines Haddon’s advances from both a theoretical and a practical perspective and demonstrates the applicability of his approach not only to injury problems but also to other public health issues.
Introduction of a fresh cadaver laboratory during the surgery clerkship improves emergency technical skills

Abstract Background Student acquisition of technical skills during the clinical years of medical school has been steadily declining. To address this issue, the authors instituted a fresh cadaver-based Emergency Surgical Skills Laboratory (ESSL). Methods Sixty-three medical students rotating through the third-year surgery clerkship participated in a 2-hour, fresh cadaver-based ESSL conducted during the first 2 days of the clerkship. The authors evaluated students utilizing both surgical skills and written examination before the ESSL and at 4 weeks post ESSL. Results Students demonstrated a mean improvement of 64% (±11) ( P P P = .08). Conclusions A fresh cadaver laboratory is an effective method to provide proficiency in emergency technical skills not acquired during the clinical years of medical school.
The effect of phorbol esters on the proliferation of C3H‐10T1/2 mouse fibroblasts: Consideration of both stimulatory and inhibitory effects

TPA stimulates cell cycle activation in both serum-deprived and density-inhibited cultures. The cells reestablish cycle arrest after no more than one generation, and addition of fresh drug produces no further response. However, cells freshly trypsinized can respond with a series of repetitive generations resulting in 3.5-4.0 population doublings over 72 hrs. In kinetic pulse experiments TPA enhanced 3H-thymidine incorporation in density-inhibited cells stimulated by fresh serum but only after markedly suppressing incorporation 8-13 hrs after serum stimulation. When cells arrested by serum deprivation were pretreated with TPA, fresh serum stimulation led to initiation of 3H-TdR incorporation 5 hrs earlier than untreated controls. However, TPA addition at the time of serum stimulation did not lead to a suppression at 8-13 hrs, whereas enhancement was observed during peak incorporation times regardless of whether the cells were pretreated with TPA during serum deprivation. The results support the concept that there can exist within G1 multiple states of responsiveness to phorbol esters. These pharmacologically induced states may be correlated with corresponding physiological states of the G1 phase of cell cycle.
On the maximum feedback delay in a linear/nonlinear control system with input disturbances caused by controller-computer failures

Electromagnetic interferences or other environmental disturbances may cause transient failures to the controller computer of a real-time control system. Such a faulty controller either fails to update the control input for one or more sampling periods, or generates erroneous control inputs until the failure is handled properly or disappears. The goal of this paper is to derive the maximum duration of controller's faulty behavior, called the hard deadline, a real-time control system can tolerate without losing stability or leaving its allowed state space. For linear time-invariant control systems, one can derive hard deadlines by testing the stability of their state difference equations which account for the effects of stationary occurrences of disturbances to, as well as the random delays in, the control input. Similarly, one can derive deadlines for nonlinear time-invariant control systems by linearizing their nonlinear state equations and using the Lyapunov's first method. In addition to this stationary model, a one-shot event model is considered for linear/nonlinear time-invariant control systems by using their state trajectories and allowed state spaces. The hard deadline information that represents the knowledge of the controlled process's inertia and timing constraints is applied to the design and evaluation of controller computers. >
Fine structure of astrocyte mitochondria in the spinal cord of the dog, cat and monkey

After perfusion of the animals with buffered aldehyde solutions, spinal cords of normal dogs, cats and monkeys were prepared for electron microscopic examination by standard methods. Observations were limited to the upper cervical levels in all animals, except in two cats where thoracic and lumbar regions also were studied. Large mitochondria, up to 5.0 μ in diameter, are abundant in astrocytes that form a dorsolateral glial septum in dogs and cats. The septum is present but less well developed in monkeys and the accompanying large mitochondria are smaller and less numerous. These mitochondria have a moderately dense matrix and few or no cristae. They are accompanied by more numerous smaller mitochondria with similar matrix and prismatic cristae. The cristae are of constant size and shape in all three species but vary greatly in numbers and arrangement. It is suggested that local mechanical forces may be responsible for the configuration of these morphologically specialized mitochondria.
A two-element yagi-type array in a parallel-plate waveguide--Theoretical and experimental studies

A theory is developed for the current distribution, impedance, and radiation characteristics of a two-element Yagi-type array, consisting of a driven antenna and a tuned parasite in a parallel-plate waveguide. By optimizing the spacing between elements and the tuning reactance of the parasite, front-to-back ratios as high as +31 dB (parasite as reflector) or as low as -19 dB (parasite as director) can be obtained for antennas with a=0.01\lambda and h=0.25\lambda , where a and h are the radius and height of the antenna, respectively. Extensive experimental measurements have been made on the antenna array, and a brief description of the apparatus is included. The experimental results agree well with theory. Possible applications of this type of antenna array as variable power-dividers and attenuators in strip lines and other circuits are explained.
The lipid composition of milk from mice fed high or low fat diets

Total fatty acids and the proportions of methyl esters of individual fatty acids were measured in mouse milk. Pregnant mice were fed either a high fat (OF) diet or a low fat (LF) diet from 14 days of gestation. After parturition, each dam was milked once a day for a period of 18 days. The mean total fatty acid concentration over the entire study period was 110 mg/g of milk (approximately 11·7% fat as triglyceride) for both dietary treatment groups. During days 2 to 6 postpartum, the mean total fatty acid concentration for dams fed OF diet was lower than for the LF group.Although the concentration of total fatty acids of mouse milk was not affected by the level of dietary fat fed to the dam, several variations in the proportions of individual fatty acids were observed.
PYK2 expression and phosphorylation increases in pressure overload-induced left ventricular hypertrophy

Proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (PYK2) is a member of the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) family of nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinases. PYK2 has been implicated in linking G protein-coupled receptors ...
Climatology and Trends of U.S. Surface Humidity and Temperature

Climatological annual and seasonal dewpoint, specific humidity, and relative humidity maps for the United States are presented using hourly data from 188 first-order weather stations for the period 1961‐90. Separate climatologies were calculated for daytime (three observations per day between 0800 and 1600 LST), nighttime (three observations per day between 2000 and 0400 LST), and the full day (eight observations per day, every 3 h). With extended datasets for the period 1961‐95, trends in these same variables and temperature are calculated for each of 170 stations and for eight regions of the country. The data show increases in specific humidity of several percent per decade, and increases in dewpoint of several tenths of a degree per decade, over most of the country in winter, spring, and summer. Nighttime humidity trends are larger than daytime trends. The specific humidity increases are consistent with upward temperature trends. The upward temperature and humidity trends are also consistent with upward trends in apparent temperature, a measure of human comfort based on temperature and humidity. Relative humidity trends are weaker than the specific humidity trends, but they do show evidence of increases, especially in winter and spring. The possibility that the detected trends may be artifacts of changes in instrumentation was examined, but several lines of reasoning suggest that they are not. Anthropogenic water vapor produced from fossil fuel consumption, both locally and globally, is too small a source to explain the observed trends.
Type 1 Diabetes: Clinical and Experimental

Type 1 diabetes should be perceived as a chronic immune-mediated disease with a subclinical prodromal period characterized by selective loss of insulin-producing cells in the pancreatic islets in genetically susceptible individuals. The past 12 months have provided new insights both into the pathogenesis and treatment of this disease. Further evidence has been provided that insulin may be the critical autoantigen in human type 1 diabetes, and the first data indicating that it may be possible to manipulate spontaneous -cell autoimmunity not only in non-diabetic obese (NOD) mice but also in human disease have been generated. Nevertheless there are still issues remaining open both in relation to the development of type 1 diabetes and to its optimal treatment.
Immunoglobulin Abnormalities in Gaucher’s Disease Report of 16 Cases

Sera from ten of sixteen patients with known Gaucher’s disease were found to have immunoglobulin abnormalities. Of these, four patients had "monoclonal" IgG type K protein increases. The possible pathogenic roles of lipid accumulation and reticuloendothelial hyperplasia are discussed.
Slowing Down Time: An Exploration of Personal Life Extension Desirability as it Relates to Religiosity and Specific Religious Beliefs

As medical technology continues increasing the possibility of living a longer life, the public's valuing of these developments must be considered. This study examines attitudes toward extending the human life span within a student population at a Christian university. Religious factors were hypothesized to affect life extension desirability. Scores on measures of willingness to defer to God's will, meaning derived from religion, positive afterlife beliefs, and intrinsic religiosity were significantly and inversely related to life extension desirability. Implications of these findings are discussed, including encouraging medical practitioners to respect decision-making processes of religious persons who may find life extension interventions undesirable.
Spectroscopy of protonated tetraphenylporphyrins with amino/carbomethoxy substituents: hyperporphyrin effects and evidence for a monoprotonated porphyrin.

Spectrophotometric titrations for a full series of para-amino/carbomethoxy-substituted tetraphenylporphyrins were carried out using methanesulfonic acid in DMSO to study the hyperporphyrin effect across different substitution patterns. The series included zero, one, two (cis and trans), three, and four amino groups, with the remaining para substituents carbomethoxy groups. With increasing numbers of aminophenyl groups, the relative basicity increased and the hyperporphyrin effect increased, marked by a strong red band and a split Soret band. The cis diamino derivative showed a stronger hyperporphyrin effect compared to the trans isomer, which can be explained based on simple resonance forms. For the monoamino derivative, an initial increase in the Soret band upon acid titration along with well-defined isosbestic points provided evidence for a monoprotonated porphyrin, distinct from the diprotonated and triprotonated states. The relative stability of this unusual intermediate is proposed to be due to charg...
Implementing the Enterprise Master Patient Index

In implementing a cross-facility initiative, the importance of planning and understanding the implications for all facilities can't be overlooked. Here's how one integrated delivery network navigated the challenges of implementing a cross-facility enterprise master patient index.